Many, many, many, many people

It's evening in Paris.  There are so many tourists here that just walking down the sidewalk is a dicey proposition.  All day long, Vanessa and I have dodged zillions like us who visit the sites with cameras and cell phones in hand, standing in awe of the enormous and beautiful buildings.  We strolled along side the Louvre (which may be the largest continuous building I've ever seen), promenaded (?) through the Tuilleries, negotiated our way across Place de la Concorde and on up the Champs Elysees to L'Arch de Triumphe.  Every time I look up or over or across I am filled with a kind of happiness, for being here, for getting to see Paris and experience the excitement along with throngs of others from everywhere.  So far, we haven't spotted a pickpocket.  But, that is their trademark...they're not seen, eh?  I look forward to learning some of the history of this place, hopefully from Paul, after I return to what will no doubt feel plain and humble...Minnesota.

Last night Vanessa went out for a walk and I stayed in the room.  I pulled my violin out from where it's hiding under the bed and played for a good 45 minutes, all the Bach and Gypsy Jazz I could remember.  Wow!  Playing in Paris.  I'm tempted to stroll the streets here in the Latin Quarter with it.  There are musicians playing on many of the street corners, and the woman I just heard singing on my way here makes me feel like my music might be welcome (she was pretty awful).  I kept the window open while I played and felt the Paris night air as a very welcoming and energizing presence.  Ooooo, I love it here.  

After I played I was invigorated,  so I laid on my bed with my computer and worked on my novel for a couple of hours.  I've been reading a wonderful book about writing by John Gardner called On Becoming a Novelist.  It's like carrying around the best teacher, mentor and friend with you.  Today, while I was waiting for Vanessa to climb the Eiffel Tower (again) I was reading my book and a bird shit on me (again).  This time it went on my beloved book and on my backpack.  I have probably visited the Eiffel Tower enough times on this trip.

My feet are holding up.  I have to go back to my room to work now...