Exploring Montmartre

(Katherine) Today was a scorcher; to the point where it would be unpleasant to be outside. We stayed inside all day with the blinds drawn and fan on, trying to conserve the cool air. We also needed to clean up the apartment to meet with our landlord for the first time, Michael. During our conversation we learned that he is a San Francisco native, and works for a French architecture firm. He moved here with his partner five years ago and they have slowly been buying and renting out small properties in anticipation of their eventual retirement. Michael was such a delight that we went out to enjoy a beer with him and he gave us the low-down on the neighborhood of Montmartre and Paris in general.

Once we parted ways, Robert and I headed down a street that Michael had recommended and searched for a place to eat. We found a cute restaurant called Le Paris Café which appeared to have a good mix of locals and foreigners (you can always tell by just listening to people’s conversations!) We had a wonderful meal, and headed back to the Autour de Midi to check out the jazz in their wine cave. There was a jam session that evening, and it appeared that musicians were able get up on stage and take turns performing as the lead instrument - a great way to discover new talent!

Our walk back home took us past our beautiful neighborhood landmark of Sacré Coeur, and of course I had to snap a photo to document how lovely it looks in the moonlight. We are thoroughly enjoying our new home!