Rosa Bonheur sur Seine

I'm pretty sure I've posted this photo before

but I love it so much I had to take another when I walked by.

Seine art.

While down there on our way through Les Berges de Seine,

Seester and I came across the shipping containers used as rental spaces

where they were having a sustainable design show.

I loved these bikes made out of wood.

The above link gives you an idea of the 

amazing things they're doing on the Left Bank these days

with all kinds of fun things for kids and adults alike. 

We went to Rosa Bonheur sur Seine

where it feels like Paris Plage without the sand.

A gorgeous, warm, sunny day

perfect for wine on the river. 

And a fantastic view!

Pull up a chair, find a spot of shade

and people-watch while sipping pink wine. 

One last look at the Seine before we move on to Provence...

next time. 

(Photos copyright: Kirsten Steen)

The Seine et Paris Plages

The Seine, Paris' romantic waterway--and probably most widely-known river throughout the world, 

runs 482 miles from Source-Seine near Dijon 

through Paris all the way into the English Channel 

near Le Havre and Honfleur. 

The average depth runs about 9 1/2 meters 

and periodic flooding creates great concern
regarding Paris' many artworks stored underground.

It is said that Joan of Arc's ashes were thrown into the Seine from Rouen.

And every summer since 2002, the Paris Plages 

brings truckloads of sand to its banks:

instant beach fun for city dwellers.

Thirty seven bridges span the Seine in Paris alone.

Some people have their favorites in the city.

Mine happens to be whichever one I'm on.

We sometimes take a walk to our Bir Hakim Bridge 

(formerly the Pont de Passy) with friends

--at just the right time--

to share a bottle of bubbly and the hourly evening shimmering lights of the Eiffel Tower.

There is nothing like strolling the banks of the Seine

with its cobblestone walkways and docked boats often used as hotel rooms,

perusing the local book- and art- sellers like in the shot above.

This year the Paris Plages begins July 20 

and runs for four weeks. 

For more information, see the Mairie de Paris website

which also shares a panoramique of photos.

Last one in the poo.....no, skip that part! 

(Photo copyright: Kirsten Steen)

Who doesn't love Paris!?!

What makes Paris so irresistible? 

It's a love affair! 

It starts with one of the most famous, and romantic, of all symbols:

The Eiffel Tower.

Who hasn't heard the stories of lifetimes together

starting at the top (or even bottom) of the Eiffel Tower. 

I've heard personally of several people who either proposed 

or were proposed to atop the tower or on a boat on the Seine while cruising past. 

In fact, visit Nathalie at Dolce Dreams 

for one such romantic love story. 

Then the love affair moves to the Seine,

a river flowing with history, fame and glory. 

One only needs to say the word 'Seine' and the world knows where you are. 

And of course there are the cafes!

The perfect place no matter the weather

be it a chilled kir in the summer

or the ever popular chocolate chaud in  winter. 

And for me,

the affair always includes the open-air markets...

with their vibrant colors,

and tempting flavors,

seasonal freshness,

and delicate seafood.

I love the glitz and fun of the holidays...

...the hidden courtyards,

the doors,

and windows,

And the metro,

night or day...

I adore the bread

and the cheese

of course the wine

and don't get me started on the luscious, decadent sweets...

and hot perfect frites,

...the art,

and architecture,

and the fabulous photo shots,

...don't forget the myriad choices and flavors of

'real' champagne...

...and the ancient finds on every walk. 

But above all else,

the biggest draw for me in Paris

is my very own heart...

My family!

My sister and her children live in Paris 

and it's because of them that Paris shines even brighter for me. 

There's no one in the world like your sister

and mine has given me Paris.

Not sure I'll ever be able 

to return such a favor. 

************************

Be sure to stop by Anita's

Castles, Crowns and Cottages

for the Simply Irresistible Paris Link Party. 

See you there! 

(Photographs copyright: Kirsten Steen)