Rue du Révérend Père Christian Gilbert

Other Paris posts: Day One, Museums, Cheap Beer

I live on this street. I’ve noticed Paris lacks street signs on posts. Instead, they have a placard on buildings at intersections. Many streets are named to honor French men and women, much like in the US. I’ve noticed a few that honor those who died at the hands of the Nazis during WWII. My street is one of them. I’d like to summarize why, but the full story with pictures is here. Father Christian Gilbert was one of five men killed by the Gestapo and Nazi soldiers on July 24, 1944. Accused of working with the resistance, these men of God were shot for not satisfactorily answering the Nazis.

The Street

This street is flanked by two schools. There are quite a few shops, especially cafes and boulangeries, as well. Interspersed are a dentist, a doctor, an interior designer, and a yoga instructor. But mainly there are apartments. And there’s even construction on two new apartment buildings. I enjoy walking the street and seeing the families, young kids on dates, and elderly couples. And there are not many buildings constructed of wood…at all. They’re all concrete, with some sections of brick.

Chez Nous and friends

I know I’m here on vacation (I like to call it my study abroad period), but I like this area. I’m enjoying going to the grocery store, meeting my two friends at Chez Nous, and learning about this area.

I’m amazed at what can be accomplished on a solo trip. I’ve met tons of new people already, and my language palette is adjusting to the region. My dreams are in French — even some of my thoughts begin with “Je” instead of “I.”

I hope that these connections can last and that the thin, wire-like tension holding us together doesn’t snap when I leave. It feels foolish to have this hope. I am but a passing soul, only briefly here before the next spot. Still, I’m grateful to meet kind people along the way.

Plans ahead

Before I head to Lyon and a hostel, I have three more days in Paris. There are many things to do, but I suppose the Eiffel Tower is among them. I’ve seen it…how can you not, but I haven’t paid the 30 euros to go up. Tomorrow! And after that, or before it…not sure, I’m headed to get another best-selling baguette traditional.

I had my first baguette traditional from Boulangerie Madeleine. I had it with tomato, olive oil, and Cabecou cheese toasted in the oven. Delicious! What else to do? I suppose I’ll be figuring that out tonight!

Plot Twist: Nick did not ride the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower.