• And where's the nearest metro and RER train (and my bus to the Louvre)?


• Why can't I get a smoked salmon sandwich for three bucks?


• Where's the reasonably priced duck or rabbit?


• Why can't I get a cheap, yummy crepe or perfect pastry on every corner?


• Why isn't fresh, delicious Escargot in the shell a hot appetizer at every restaurant (and where's the Badoit mineral water, anyway)?


• Why are all these people walking around dressed in t-shirts and shorts? (Note: we never wore shorts in Paris, nor did we see any of the French wearing them.)


• Who are all these ill-bred, poorly trained dogs trying to attack me? (Note: French dogs never barked at me, or even gave me any notice.)


• How come when I walk around town, I don't see any workers picking up the litter daily from the streets?


• How come the park isn't lined with flowers?


• Why are the sidewalks so narrow?


• And just how can I be sure of the time at night when I can't see the Eiffel Tower sparkling hourly from my terrace?

When we got back, I spent almost three full days getting my project done for the deadline, unpacking, doing laundry and housework, and dreading my return to the classroom. Not an easy nor a happy transition.

Next week, I take another graduate class, then it's two weeks till I'm back teaching....

But the wonderful thing is that our baby will be here in less than two months!