brainsplotch

I literally have not had a second until now to write anything in here about Paris. Where to begin? It was I who sprung the idea of staying in Montmartre, based solely on its history of being a bohemian artist enclave and its association with Toulouse-Lautrec, the Moulin Rouge, and other luminaries such as Picasso. But I never gave much thought to the geography of the place or where it was situated in relation to the rest of Paris. I really didn't know or never registered that it lies on the northern edge of Paris and is separated geographically and even psychically by an incredibly steep bluff that is only accessed by hundreds of steps (or a funicular, if the steps are too daunting).  Montmartre is a funky, vibrant place full of winding, narrow cobblestone streets. Some parts are more touristy than others. Our little apartment is at 6 Rue Poulbot, three floors above a tiny restaurant called Chez Plumeau. We can hear talking, laughing, and the clacking of cutlery until well into the...

We are sitting at a seat that is divided from the other seat by a table, so there are awkward glances at the people in front of us. I figure they don't want to be bothered with conversation from a complete stranger, so I'll leave them alone.  Most people are entertained by their phones these days, anyway--including me. [Just west of Reims, now]. This is the fastest train I have ever been on. I am trying to imagine if Amtrak was this fast. It would be amazing. But that would require the U.S. to actually invest in infrastructure and public transportation. Arrived in Paris and took a wild taxi ride from the train station to our little place in Montmartre. I even attempted French with the cab driver, which I suppose he appreciated even though he could tell by rusty-ass French was awful. But he got us here and we have a stunning view of the city.