Paris, Peddling and Peonies

What's not to love? OK, maybe peddling, but think cool sunny day on the Seine not over crowded cycling class at the Y.

I am officially obsessed with peddling in Paris.  If you are a little adventurous, Paris by peddle is the very best way to see the city in Spring.... although it is definitely not for the faint of heart.  With buses zooming by and bike lanes disappearing out of no where, it takes some serious determination to tackle this city's roadways.  Nonetheless, it is totally worth it.

In less than an hour, I rented a Velibe bike and peddled all the way from the 16th to the Bastille in the 11th, clear across the city (for less than 2 euro).  Just in case you aren't impressed, here is a map for reference. (We live in the 16th between Trocadero and Bois de Boulogne and the Bastille is on the opposite side of the map in the 11th). 

Just in case you are impressed, don't be.  There is a great bike lane that hugs the Seine straight across the city.  It is completely flat and in 75 degree whether, it couldn't have be easier.

It is amazing how much you can see on one little bike trip across the city.... Eiffel, Invalide, Place de la Concorde, d'Orsday, le Louvre, Notre Dame, Ile St. Louis and at least 10 some odd bridges. Tres fab!!

Oh, and peonies are a steal in the 11th! Found a great flower shop on the way home.  Loved peddling home with the wind picking up the smell of peonies sitting in my basket. 

Passed this Maje window on the way home. Love!

Although, denim jumpsuit? Really? This is a trend I don't think I'll be subscribing to anytime soon. (Fashion week kicks up again late June.  Can't wait to see what's in store for Summer 2012!)

ANYWAY, the point of the Bastille trip was a Brocante fair that looks fabulous.  (I am all of the sudden obsessed with finding a Limoges tea set.... maybe because I picked up tea drinking after the royal wedding.  {who didn't?} ) However, I totally forgot to print off my invitation gratuite for the fair!  Good news, Merci was just a few blocks away.  (Concept store with everything from designer furniture to chic plastic dinnerware).

The store really does have an old red beetle parked in the front (sans the cow).  I fell in love with a pair of K. Jacques orange and zebra thong sandals.  Counting down the days until the Summer Soldes.   

In the meantime, we are looking forward to the French Open and squeezing as much out of Paris as we can before I head to Atlanta Sunday.

Au revoir, for now!