La fête nationale française

Bonne fête!!!!

Bon Fête de Nationale!

14 juillet, 2009 I stood on a bridge with my friend Peter Olson and took this shot ( a LOT of shots).  I think this evening must take the "MY BEST PARIS MOMENT" award for all time.  Merci Peter for planning this so that I could share this wonderful event with you and all of Paris from the perfect vantage point!

Paris Rouge LVII - Fete Nationale!!!

Two years ago today, I was standing on a bridge in Paris with mon ami Peter watching la Tour Eiffel explode with this most glorious fireworks display. I've shared many images of that evening, but today the one that graces the back cover of Paris Rouge Through My Lens.  A treasured memory of what I think must be the most wonderful evening I've spent in Paris.

We have another raison de célebrer, our dear Genie at Paris and Beyond is celebrating her first blog birthday this very day.  I'm proud that I was present at the birthing last 14 juillet, and she and I have had such great fun blogging together this year. I think she's done a terrific job!! Joyeux anniversaire chère Genie!

Edith Piaf singing Le Marseillaise

FIreworks, Paris Style!

Peter and I enjoyed the Fete Nationale fireworks from the Pont de Grenelle, near the Eiffel Tower tonight. It was just spectacular. See for yourself!

For many more great shots of the celebration, jump on over to Peter's blog and see his dazzling collection of photos!

Joyeuse Fete Nationale !

Musee Rodin

Tuesday is Fete Nationale ( Bastille Day) here in France. If the fireworks that the neighborhood kids are setting off this evening are any indication, tomorrow promises to be a firecracking, flag waving good time. I haven't noticed the aroma of charcoal grills being fired up, so I must assume that the French choose not to celebrate with WELL cooked barbequed pork. (The very idea!) I think it will be fun to see the festivities so I hope to have some photos to share. I don't think I"ll be in the thick of the huge crowds, so don't hold your breath for a photo of President Sarkozy as my latest "100 French Strangers". Stay tuned though.

Pictured below is the Hotel de Ville ( Paris City Hall). Our mayor at home would give up his pipe dream of a domed stadium if he could "rule" from a place like this!

Hotel de Ville