8

Arising early, Cole and I set off for the airport, a long trip when dragging around monstrous suitcases. Once on the airplane, we had a pleasent flight, landing safely in, yes, Paris--you can imagine our excitement! Nicolas and his family live in a suburb of Paris, and from their living room, you can see the tip of the Eiffel Tower. We settled in and Marie Anne, Nicolas's mother, insisted we not waste the day. Because she still had the car, she suggested we go see the Palace of Versaille. Of course, I jumped at the opportuntiy and within a few minutes we were on our way to the extravagant dwelling of France's former royalty. As you may well know, the palace is vast, spanning miles and miles with lush gardens . Within the palace walls there are countless rooms of orate classical decor, gaudy and glowing with golds and rich paintings. My favorite room was the hall of mirrors, a long, golden hall illuminated by an infinite number of chandeliers and long strips of mirrors opposite the windows--the room was, in itself, a light. I also loved seeing Marie Antoinette`s chamber, which had an elegant floral theme. I could have spent days within the palace.
I thought Berlin was busy; Paris is twice, perhaps three times the pace. It is so beautiful! I melt at each narrow, cobble stone street, the wonderful arcitecture, just everything is beyond words for me. I enjoy listening to the constant stream of French in the house, though, unfortunately, I cannot understand most of it. What I can understand is tones and I understand that Nicolas argues constantly with his family; I have to try hard not to laugh :)