Bistrot Linois

Sunday in Paris...much like East Tennessee, places are often closed. Le Bistrot Linois was suggested by the lady at the front desk of my über cute hotel Platine.

A typical Parisian bistrot, I was excited to see the menu. Though it sometimes frustrates me that menus are in English and French, there was a portion in only French. I enjoy a challenge and the food is part of my adventure here. I'm not extremely hungry for some reason but I know the Sancerre is calling my name. If I don't eat, I will likely fall asleep on the carousel across the street after I stumble into it.

A short walk from my hotel, I saw it, passed it and kept walking. I love walking the streets of Paris. I have not really ever taken cabs or the Metro much here. I can walk, and walk and to be honest, that's the best way to see a city. Especially when you're in Paris for a short time like I am...eight nights is not enough. I will be back again though. I just can't get enough of this place.

My charming waiter is attentive and adorable. I am half tempted to take him home with me, to America, to work for me, as a waiter. Easy there...
As the Sancerre starts to work its magic, I order Tartare de Saumon, it's served with frites et salade.
Call Me Maybe comes on the speakers. That song is impossible to escape! I'm enjoying every bite, moment, and sip here. I'm also reminded that traveling alone can be much more pleasant than having a companion. I have not a care in the world. I am enjoying being in my own company. I love the people watching right now. Btw, all of Australia has invaded France. That's all that's here. As this is my first Summer trip to Paris, I'm learning the difference between the seasons and the people you will find here. Everyone is pleasant but it's really fun to see the awkward couples trying to make conversation. Ahhh, I am so happy to be alone.

The food was divine. The drinks, perfection. The service, impeccable. I could have died after the cheese plate and never have missed out on anything.
I am at total peace. I should never have booked a flight home.

Note to self: I speak much more French than previously thought. Insert sabbatical to Paris for a year ASAP.

Bonjour!

As we flew into CDG, I knew this was exactly where I want to be right now. The country is gorgeous, the people are lovely. This is my third trip to Paris and everything feels new again.

There really is something magical that happens when you're here. The energy is electric and everything here is sexy. The food, the people, the shopping. I was excited to come here and I'm thrilled that I did!

Ooh La La

Thanks to a random series of events, a bit of tequila with Uncle Bob, and imessage photos galore from Stephane, GirlMeetsTennessee will be blogging from Paris next week!

I had said in December that all I wanted for Christmas was an apartment in Paris for the Summer...eight nights at a chic hotel will have to do. I'm so excited!

Where I Come From We Call It Catchin'

I got a fishin' license yesterday and decided to use it!
It's been a long time since I have been fishing. I was talking to Uncle Bob about it a few weeks ago and he reminded me that it requires a license. The fine is $250 and they will take your equipment if your caught without one. Definitely not worth the risk.
I asked the lady at the bait shop for advice on what to use and where to go. She looked at me funny and was doubtful that I would have any success. I wanted to go anyway. I headed down to a place South of Norris Dam. It was so much fun! I caught a stick and a couple of rocks.
It's true what they say, "Any day spent fishin' is better than any day you don't!"

As I was leaving, a girl stopped me and said, "Well it's not everyday you get to see someone fishin' in heels."
You can take the girl out of California, but you can't take the California out of the girl :-)

Eating Rainbows

I have evidence to support the smile and health benefits of growing and consuming rainbows!
Everything is better when you grow it yourself! Plant a garden and you just might end up growing a rainbow!

Seven Seven Sunflower

Happy Birthday to my mother, Marla!
I'm sure twenty nine will be great again this year!

What is it about bearded revolutionary war soldiers that appeals to you?

EVERYTHING!

I was out running errands on the third of July, and saw a flashing red sign at the town visitors center that said "ANVIL SHOOT & CELEBRATION". I'm always amused and confused by the things people put on their signs here. This was no exception. I promptly text my TN native sensei Todd, to have him decode the sign for me. He sent back the link to the Museum of Appalachia's Fourth of July Celebration. Instantly, I knew I had to attend.
There have been several times when I've had out of town visitors and we were going to check out the museum, but we never made it there. This was my chance to go, by myself and have a little fun. I underestimated the amount of fun one can have while exploring things like Mark Twain's Cabin, and One Room Schools. The museum is amazing. There are peacock's, chickens, and turkeys roaming around. There are demonstrations of every craft possible and you're instantly transported back in time. You could spend all day there and not see everything. I'm definitely going to have to visit it again.

As I was roaming around, the soldiers decided to post up on a log and I knew I needed a photo with them. I kindly asked and they were all too excited about it. I was told I would have to sit between them which made me very happy. A stranger snapped two photos and then the gentleman started a conversation with me. I learned why Yankee Doodle stuck a feather in his hat and called it macaroni. I learned the meaning behind the saying "piss poor", and "don't have a pot to piss in". These bearded treasures are full of knowledge and I love that they go to schools in their costumes and teach children like myself about the revolution. I find it important to keep history alive.
So as I was chatting with them, some man with a microphone, stuck it in my face and started asking me questions. It was the most hilarious unexpected interview I have ever done. He didn't ask my permission and I had no clue who he was, but he seemed familiar to me. I didn't think much of it until later that evening, Uncle Bob and Bev were flipping thru the news channels and I saw a teaser for the feature. So, I was on the news. It was hilarious. Such a fun random day and great celebration for the Fourth of July all because I saw a sign and asked a question!
Click here for the video