Bonjour,

Writing from our little Parisian apartment in the Marais. Got in late this afternoon around 4pm. Took a taxi from Gare du Nord and met Laurence who was going to get us settled in the apartment for the owner, as he is out of town today. Got the papers all handled and we started to unpack. For some reason, we were both unsatisfied until we adjusted but found a great supermarket up the street to purchase supplies and started to feel more like this was our space for the next 9 nights. The apartment is nice but took about an hour to get used to for some reason. Maybe because we just spent time at a hotel where everything was pristine and there waiting for you, to an apartment where we had to take care of ourselves. It's very cute though, safe and comfortable.

We realized that we didn't eat lunch, so we also bought a baguette, some cheese and meat to enjoy back at the apartment.

Then it was off exploring. Our neighbourhood is very upscale and vibrant. Passed some stunning boutiques and a flower shop that smelled like heaven on earth. Will pick up a bouquet from either there or the Marche Fleurs tomorrow. Manaen is doing SO well with French and I love hearing him speak it.

Walked around Notre Dame. The garden in the back is so serene and I am sure we will spend some time sitting on the benches there. All the flowers are in bloom and the trees are blossoming.

Did a lot more walking, had a dinner we could forget by Notre Dame. (Paris Creme Brule's - 0. Manaen Creme Brule - 1) The owners and staff are soo pushy with people on the street, pulling them inside, upselling their product. It was actually quite funny to watch. But we need to find something that is both affordable and delicious so may need to go off the beaten path a bit more for that.

Back to the apartment after dusk. Admired the stone building facades all lit up.

Tomorrow we will go back to Notre Dame to view the interior, hope to see Saint Chapelle, Place des Vosges and do some "Paris Walks" around the Marais.

Missing you all and been thinking about Milo - how's he doing? Can't believe we have so much time left on our holiday - we're not used to it!!

Much love,

Kate & Manaen