France: Carbohydrates.

So, I'm staying at a hostel right? And they serve a free breakfast, nothing special.. just a quick bite before everyone heads out for the day.
Now, I didn't really know what to expect. Maybe a croissant and fruit? Croissant? Yes. Bun? Yes.
My breakfast was a croissant and a bun! I had to giggle a little at first, I mean.. to me thats the same thing, a serving of bread/carbs right? Its just a side! Not here in Paris I guess.

To take the whole bread thing a little further, I cannot even count how many people I saw with baguettes today. Stereotype for a reason! There was even a little girl (maybe 10) walking down the street, full baguette in hand, just casually taking bites off it. I feel if I did this at home people would stare, with good reason.

Today, like yesterday, was pouring rain. After the major jet lag yesterday I had to get out and do some sightseeing today. I spent most of my day wandering through teeny streets and picking up on some major touristy areas. The hostel I am staying at is very close to this small pedestrian-only street called 'Rue Mouffetard' that is all markets and quirky little shops. and talk about Nutella!! everywhere, of course in crepe shops. It feels like they advertise the nutella, its always just shining bright stacked in the front counter/window. I could only think of Marina at this point. :P

From the Rue Mouffetard I headed towards the highly recognizable Notre Dame to get my tourist on. On the way I wandered through some not-so touristy streets, bought a Granny Smith apple off an Asian lady and all! Now, first thing I think when I see the Notre Dame.. woowwie! Its huge, busy, and there are flashy cameras going off like crazy. Like a disco up there.

Seriously, look at the tourists taking pictures.

Absolutely amazing, so much detail and so big. I went inside, and again, nothing but massive-ness and detail. I spent a lot of time there, mostly just watching the other tourists. I definitely got some great pictures, not only of the tourists, but of the Notre Dame too.

From here I ended up at a small pastry shop (honestly, one on every corner) where I had a coffee? I think.. I asked for one, and she asked what kind.. and well. I didn't know there was more than one kind of 'just plain coffee'. I ended up agreeing to Cafe something, which I think was coffee with milk and froth. I loved it!

Next, and why I love Paris now..(not the only reason) Jardin de Luxembourg. I love this place. I spent over an hour just wandering around the massive gardens and plaza. And I didn't even see half of it! There were sculptures hidden in every corner, little pocket gardens, funny pruned trees, funny old people, and amazing architecture. The size is overwhelming, but I found so comfortable in the space. I wish this was more of an attraction, or more people knew about it, I guess only an LA student would get this excited about it! :P

I ended the day with a great dinner, (more carbs.) where I met Meghan's roommate, and her friend. The four of us shared a bottle of French wine and some French cuisine. Now, (DAD! Be Proud) I picked something off the menu that I could not even pronounce. I had to point to it to order it.
I ended up with a form of Carbonara something something, with an uncooked egg yolk on it. It was delicious! Serving was WAY to huge but thats beside the point. Over the table we also found French fries (awesome), roasted chicken with rosemary and some Beef T... (looked interesting, don't remember).

Countdown is on for the bread-fast. Tomorrow is and early day for Versailles, and fingers crossed the Eiffel tower! And figuring out where I am headed to next. :S Madrid anyone?

Bonne Nuit! shannon xx.

p.s I have many many pictures, but my camera is 5 floors up. I will add demain. :)