Bonjour mes amies!
Beginning my last week in Paris before the holiday, and finally feeling a little pressure to find some treats for my sleigh. Turns out that Christmas madness does exist in Paris- I just hadn’t hit the right streets. Saturday afternoon Mark and I set out in search of some gifts and found ourselves in pedestrian gridlock on more than one occasion. Galeries Lafayette was wall to wall people, some of whom were just there to take pictures of the Christmas tree, while others were there to actually spend some euros. I don’t think I have ever been in a store that was more crowded. I am happy to report that I was able to muscle my way in, plant my feet, and take this picture of the tree under the Galeries Lafayette dome for you. Because I said I would. And that’s the kind of girl I am.
But last Thursday I was still in Christmas Denial, and I was thrilled to see that my walking tour group was going to one of my favorite museums- Musee Carnavalet! Remember how much I loved the room of signs? We didn’t spend much time in there, but I was able to snap one more sign photo for you.
A violin maker?
Our trusty guide took us in many parts of the museum I had not seen on my last visit. Here are some highlights.
The Pont Neuf is a lovely bridge decorated with large masks like this one, which is an original. Many of the masks currently on the bridge are reproductions.
Napoleon's traveling toiletry bag! How cool is that?
Very large painting depicting the pre-Revolutionary hedonism of the aristocracy. This restaurant is still hopping today!
This Roman baby was buried and the cement used to seal his coffin fell on his face, leaving us with this precious mold. Sweet but sad.
I still love this museum and can’t wait to go back. Their wonderful bookstore/gift shop is always a delight, as well.
I have been doing lots of long afternoon walks, enjoying the brisk air and gorgeous Paris light. Walking around the crazy traffic circle known as Etoile, I came across these more recent remains. So clever!
Watch out for crazy drivers and mean pedestrians, or you could end up like this poor guy!
Mais Oui Paris 
How does Napoleon fit all that in a quart sized ziplock bag? Can’t wait for you to get here!
That’s a museum I don’t think I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting, but next time I’m in Paris, I won’t leave without stopping by. I really loved the mask of the Roman baby’s face. Really quite moving.
Good shot of that tree at G.L. Can’t believe you managed to take the shot without being stomped on by the hordes of shoppers. Good on you!
Have a safe trip and enjoy the time in Houston …. oh and Merry Christmas too!
Merry Christmas to you, Margaret, and thanks for being such a loyal reader, commenter, and encourager! Have a great time in Chicago.