Lunch in Paris

Humming 'la vie est belle' in my head whilst waiting for the 06.26 train to Waterloo, I seemed to be the only person wearing any colour on the station platform already busy with early commuters.  Connecting to St Pancras and excitedly following the signs for Eurostar international departures, I was on my way to Paris just for the day, for lunch.  Despite clear announcements advising passengers on the services currently open for check-in a stressed French woman impatiently pushed ahead trying to beat the queue, in such a rush but going nowhere slowly.  Seething with frustration she swung her trolley on wheels around against the tide of travellers progressing through the security barriers.  I'm sure psychologists must mine a vast wealth of research on human behaviour simply by observing people in transit.  The cabaret had begun.  Through in the busy departures hall a large group of young Americans were being coralled by their tour leader shouting instructions to 'huddle' which they did to such an effect as to block anyone elses path through the area.  Struggling with their oversized luggage I was thankful to be travelling light.  Having only a handbag felt rather decadent for a foray to Europe, albeit a short trip.

Having met my dear friend Jo for her special birthday celebration, we took our seats on the 08.31 Eurostar service and sped to Paris.  A swift metro ride on arrival and we emerged into the sunshine of St-Germain to the sound of wonderful jazz floating through the air.  An impromptu trio had set up on the pavement comprising double bass, drums and upright piano, which set the uplifting tone of our day.  La vie truly is belle. 

Straight into retail therapy we emerged from the delightful emporium of Laduree clutching their signature green and gold carrier bags with boxes of exquisite macaroons of flavour sensations ranging from rose to reglisse (liquorice), via salted caramel, to pistachio.  Soaking up the atmosphere and browsing along rue Jacob we made our way to our lunch destination, Brasserie Lipp.  A famous Paris institution this wonderful restaurant serves quintessential French favourites with a traditional flourish.  Restored by a flute of champagne the menu did not require much consideration as I always order exactly the same main course there - brandade served with a green salad.  Deceptively simple this dish of salt cod with mashed potato may sound bland, but is anything but.  The light texture and satisfying taste are a revelation that I never venture beyond.  Accompanied by a glass of chilled Sancerre I was happy and so was Jo with the same combination, having never tried brandade before.  In true French style we chose cheese as the next course - a distinctive Hansi served with cumin seeds and a more familiar Brie de Meaux, served with the freshest of ficelle bread and unsalted butter, perfect with a glass of Bordeaux.  Rather full the prospect of dessert was too much, even though the house speciality mille feuilles is legendary, as is the rum baba.  Next time.  A strong coffee was the perfect boost before an afternoon shopping along rue du Bac, culminating at the fabulous Bon Marche department store.  Perhaps not many people go to Paris without seeing any of the sights, going to any of the galleries, or taking a bateaux mouches trip on the Seine, but I can't go to Paris without a visit to the impressive La Grande Epicerie food halls at Bon Marche.  A gourmet paradise I limited my purchases on the basis everything had to be carried back on the train.  The afternoon flew.  A welcome cup of tea with the chance to sit and watch Paris go by and then it was time to return to the Gare du Nord. 

Musing on the fact that life is what you make of it I then saw written on a shop window "c'est maintenant ou jamais"...it's now or never.  The accolade may have been to promote the special discounts in store, but what a poignant reminder to make things happen, do what makes you happy and always make time for the people and places that are important to you.  Time flies and so do the years.  Have no regrets. La vie est belle.

Diamond Jubilee Celebrations

Trumpet fanfares; gilded State coaches; pristine ceremonial uniforms; centuries of heritage and precisional planning contribute to create the fabulous pageantry that Britain does so well.  As I write this with the television on in the background, crowds of people waving flags are gathering in the Mall and outside Buckingham Palace for the balcony appearance of the Queen and Royal family on the fourth day of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.  Truly an inspiration, the unique continuity provided by Her Majesty throughout her 60 year reign is awesome.  In true English fashion the weather has been challenging, but our steadfast Queen Elizabeth II has carried on regardless.  The huge energy, enthusiasm and patriotism of the British people supporting the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee has been incredible, but more so the uplifting reality of the Queen's dedication to her role.  Claxons sounding and the roars of the crowd drew me back to watch the televised fly past.  Impressive and moving to see.

Joining in my local neighbourhood party to mark the occasion on Sunday, I baked a traditional Victoria sponge decorated as the Union flag to share.  Everyone loves cake and what a great sense of community to come together and enjoy honouring our Monarch in a time honoured way with afternoon tea.  Long to reign over us, God Save The Queen.