I went for a run this morning (very early). I now know what cold is! Amiens is a sizeable place. The cathedral in the photo is huge and highly ornate with kings, saints and gargoyles surrounding the outside walls. As I said in the last entry, the band and choir are excellent and have set a very high benchmark for us. We can do it, but we need to take seriously our commitment to individual practise. Every section in their band could play their parts and all solo...

Pulled into Paris last night and met Kate and Peter, who are guiding myself and Michael and Louise (Scots College)for the next 6 days. Staying at the Ibis Hotel in Montparnasse, which is where the band will staying next year while we're in Paris. Rooms are comfortable and the food is great! Set off by myself early on Saturday and walked for over 3 hours just in the Montparnasse area. Checked the TGV fast trains at the station. A security presence is everywhere w...