After having a schedule of some sort for the last four mornings we finally had a day that was unplanned. We had a slow and easy morning. The weather was cool and threatening rain so we decided something inside would be the best. So around 11:00 we headed to the Aquarium which is near the Eiffel Tower (not so far to walk should it start pouring) and had received pretty good reviews from our previous tour guide. It was quite impressive, we walked around and looked at the fish and ocean life in the various tanks including a large shark tank with primarily medium sized sharks (not so scary according to the kids). They also had several film viewing areas with shows by National Geographic (English dubbed over in French) as well a cinema that was showing films like Peter Pan and Hook (French with English subtitles, interesting!). There was also a fish tank that was filled with koi and the kids were able to stick their hands in and "pet" the fish. Of course after about 15 minutes someone bumped Zach and his whole arm, up to almost his shoulder (fleece and all) went into the tank (the tank was in the floor and only came up as high as the kids thighs so it was inevitable that someone was going to get soaked). So we then had to spend about 20 minutes trying to dry out his fleece under the bathroom hand dryer so he wouldn't be cold when he went outside. They also had a cool virtual fish pond, similar to the ipad pocket pond app and when the kids walked on the floor it appeared they we in water and then fish would come out and swim away when they started walking toward them. The kids thought this was cool and it kept them occupied for a little while.

We left the Aquarium in search of a place for lunch. We have had quite a few good lunches while here. As you may, or may not know you don't have to walk very far in Paris to find a Cafe, Bistro, Brasserie or Restaurant. There are only slight differences between the four but basically the level of formality and the type of fare ranging from snacks to full meals defines which one you are eating. For lunch we have been going primarily to Bistro's and Brasseries and the food has always been fresh and delicious. After a little lunch, dessert and wine we headed to the Marais to explore yet another Parsien neighborhood. The Marais used to be the Jewish neighborhood and is now the place for yuppies. We walked down a few streets and came upon the street that is lined with Jewish shops, deli's and bakery's. We looked for Goldenberg's Deli, which was once the center of Parisien Jewish life and was also known for the fact that it was bombed in '82 by Carlos the Jackal, the Palestinian terrorist,and was later rebuilt. We found it and It is now an urban men's clothing store (they must have been getting many questions because there is still a sign on the facade that says Home of Goldenberg's Delicatessen. I guess this proves only thing that in life that is guaranteed is change. We found a wonderful bakery that was filled with the most sumptuous looking pastries so we had to go in and buy baklava that was more than an inch thick and dripping with honey as well as large pastires that looked like croissants but had chocolate layers wrapped inside. One of the things I absolutely love about french food is that nothing is made too sweet (the kids are not so happy about this fact). Another interesting fact about France is that they don't over air condition so one can be comfortable without needing a sweater or jacket inside.

We headed home and enjoyed a quiet dinner at home with some tasty desserts afterwards then to bed early. Tomorrow is Bastille Day (French Independence Day) so it is going to be a long day. TTFN (ta-ta for now).