Galeries Lafayette

The Galeries Lafayette, a huge shopping mall in central Paris, is fantastically busy all of the time. This beautiful Christmas tree is four or five floors tall. I was almost knocked down by a billion Asian men while trying to take this picture, but it was worth it.

Christmas Champs-Elysees

Champs-Elysees is impressive year round, with its very, very, very expensive stores (think 5th Ave.), but during the Christmas season, the streets are decorated with lights and it almost seems welcoming. These pictures really do not do it any justice; trust me, it feels and looks like a modern setting of "It's a Wonderful Life" when you surface from the metro.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, located at one end of Champs Elysees, is my 3rd favorite thing about France. It is a gigantic moment build in honor of the French military and it is quite a site. There is a massive intersection surrounding the Arc and it is a complete mystery to me as to how there are not hundreds of wrecks daily. The best thing about the Arc is the view from the top. It isn't cheap, 8 euros, but it is well worth it, especially at night. The view it affords of the Eiffel Tour and its light show is breath-taking.

Peanut Butter and Such

I recieved my second package from home and it included some of the material things I miss most, other than my car, my apartment, my bed, my books....well you get the picture. It is amazing how a few things can brighten your day. There was never a happier American living in Paris than I was when I opened my box and found Jif peanut butter, Secret deodorant and American salad dressing. Thanks mom!