le dernier jour d'école

Our 8am view 

We were very sad to say goodbye to our wonderful language school today (not forever; we're returning on Thursday for the end-of-the-month picnic!). We've had an excellent last week, with lots of speaking practice, debates and story-telling!

This evening, Patrick and I celebrated the end of our seven weeks of learning by going to an incredible restaurant (Robert et Louise) recommended to us by our teacher, Michael. In the heart of Le Marais, it looks like a traditional bistrot (dark wooden tables and mirrors etc) but they are known for cooking their steaks over a fire, resulting in the most delicious (and enormous) côte de bœuf we have ever had. We recommend this to everyone!

Sorry to my vegetarian readers

Other things we have done this week: enjoyed plenty of beautiful sunshine! The temperature has soared up to 16 degrees and the sky has been clear and blue for days now. Goodbye to my yellow puffer jacket and a warm welcome to my sunglasses! February really seems to have chased winter away; outside every bistrot are people en terrasse, everyone seems a fraction more cheerful! Only just though, this is still Paris.

This week's culture fix took place at the Musée de l'Orangerie. I think it is a lovely little museum; I absolutely love the huge panoramic Monets, painted from memory and given to the city of Paris as a gift of peace after the Second World War. The way they are arranged in two curved rooms full of natural light is perfect, and so tranquil.

This obviously doesn't do it justice! 

We have lots of plans for the week ahead: a mixture of admin, eating and exploring. I'll keep you updated! Bon week-end!