Sunday

The first Sunday of each month all government museums are free to the public, a big savings for families. It means long lines to get in though, mostly because of the security check. Some places look in your bags and purses, while others have xray machines. There was  a huge line at the front door of the Louvre, so I tried the underground entrance in the Carrousel Mall. Voila! No line :)  Also spent some time in the Musee d'Orsay.

Sunny Sunday morning

In the Tuileries - just as busy as in the spring, with joggers and walkers, and families out for the day

The Carrousel Mall, hidden beneath the Tuileries Gardens, has an entrance to the Louvre - a good way to avoid the big line-ups outside!

Wooden tops for sale a a huge artisan show just off the mall.

I had onion soup at a cafe. Clouds came in and a damp mist made the streets sparkle and reflect. There were two families at the table next to mine. This young man, with his oh-so-French scarf wrapped elegantly around his neck, and his very French shaggy haircut, ate fries and a burger.

How to park in Paris - if you have a tiny car!

Shop windows, and a cozy cafe

More shop windows

Despite the drizzle, these die-hards were playing petanques in the park. They bring their balls in little leather bags, and the whole thing seems very serious :)

As you walk along Rue Ste Dominique you find some of the classic views of the tower.

 

That's if you can tear your eyes away form the shop windows.

Dusk is a wonderful time to take photos, especially when the lights are reflecting on wet pavement. Tables are still out, and many places have heaters and/or blankets if you wish to sit outside with the smokers :)

Along Rue Cler, the famous market street - just a block from my apartment