Pilgrim's Pate... or Hey, Toto: we're not in Kansas anymore :)

For me, the first meal in Paris is always the hardest especially in a new neighborhood. Everything always looks odd and unfamiliar. Oh wait, that's what it means to be a pilgrim, right?... to be a strange person in a strange land?

The first time I came to Paris, I stayed in the Rue Cler neighborhood. There was something in the Rick Steves' travel guide that made the area sound extremely appealing. And he was right. However, I must remember how odd and foreign it seemed to me those first few hours. My little apartment was shabby chic and that surprised me, but after staying in a few other places in the city, I'm beginning to think that the French created the shabby chic style which I've come to adore.

My first solo venture out in Paris, I followed a sure bet recommendation from Steves and went to Cafe du Marche. I didn't have the nerve to ask for a French menu and thought I was ordering a Caesar salad. When my waiter brought out the dish, it barely resembled the Caesar of my mind. On closer inspection, I realized I'd been served the house salad which included some form of pate. Pate has never been a favorite of mine. (Perhaps I've never had a really good one, but after having bad stuff a few times, it's hard to trust). I remember picking around the Romaine lettuce and the pale tomatoes and feeling my tummy remind me that we weren't in Kansas anymore (or Seattle).

My first day out this trip, I kept my eyes peeled for a boulangerie or patisserie to pick up a tasty treat. I wasn't yet prepared to sit down and order by myself. (I wonder if I've been spoiled for traveling alone now that I haven't done it for a while? Time will tell.) I found a place that looked promising, but saw they are closed on Wednesday and Thursday (i.e. my first two days in the neighborhood).

Hunger, jet lag, and basic disorientation were pushing my limits. On I forged, noticing how everything looked gray and kind of dirty. It's much easier to acclimate when the sun is shining and I often wonder if people can tell by looking at me that I'm rather lost and don't speak the language. My hunch is that most people aren't as curious as I am nor do they probably care.

Finally, I saw a lovely shop from across the way that I could tell was an organic health food store. Score! I went inside preparing myself for a conversation that wouldn't happen (i.e. a casual conversation in french). I wandered around and saw there were many tasty things available. I chose a ripe pear and a bag of organic almonds. The shop keeper was lovely and we chatted in franglais. I left the store buoyed by my first purchase from a human being and the promise of a sweet juicy pear.

Paris streets have a way of crisscrossing and turning like no other place I've ever been. In my new neighborhood, they fan out from Place de la Bastille which Rick Steves calls "Paris' most famous non-sight." Only the square remains where the legendary prison once stood and tourists are said to arrive and stand looking and looking trying to find the fortress of Revolutionary fame.

These spoke-like streets have carried me off in directions unknown probably more times than not. At these times, I employ my favorite words from singer-songwriter, Jana Stanfield:

"I'm not lost. I'm just exploring."

On my first day here I wasn't in the mood for exploring since I was famished and looking forward to having fresh pear and almonds back at my apartment. It was a wonderful surprise, therefore, when I managed to wind my way back to the apartment (I now call home) and dive into my tasty food without surprise!

(Note: Anyone who knows me well, knows I actually love surprises and adventure, but some days a girl just needs something familiar! The trick is paying attention and listening to what we need, right?)

Au revoir (for now).

Comments

[kay]

i know you will find your rhythm there soon, if you haven't already! i look forward to a day when i can come with you. enjoy enjoy enjoy!!!

[Pam]

What a wonderful adventure! :) How long are you there? Je vous souhaite un bon voyage!