Boules

A few years ago, Mary Gilbert drug me to the 20eme to what was advertised as a "grande brocante" that would cover many streets in Quartier Saint-Blaise. We had visions of miles and miles of antique French treasures that we could snatch up at a great price. What we found was similar to American garage sales, rows upon rows of less than chic items. We were rather discouraged until I spotted what might have been the best item anyone had to offer.  This vintage pétanque set in a worn case caught my eye. If I could have figured a way to fly it home, it would be mine.  Alas, I had to pass it up.

Here in the states, people love bocce ball and boules. With my limited knowledge, I think I can safely say that pétanque is similar to both but played with smaller metal balls. I think my love of this set stems from the delightful times I've spent in Paris watching the men ( and a few women) play pétanque in the gardens.

Boules

This was my favorite find at the Grande Brocante - Quartier Saint Blaise last month in the 20eme. Since I have often enjoyed photographing the pétanque players at Luxembourg and the Palais Royal gardens, I especially loved seeing this vintage set in its nicely worn case.

Merci Claudine pour cette vidéo!!

Marche Creation de la Bastille

How could I resist this shot of the artist and his baguette?

This one is for Eiffel Tower Suzy

This morning Mary and I headed all the way to the 20 eme to the Grande Brocante-Quartier Saint-Blaise. Over 600 dealers offered a wide variety of ............JUNQUE! Mary and I decided there wasn't one thing we wanted to buy but it was worth the trip for the experience and the photo ops. I will tell you what we learned, no matter the country, everyone's tacky junk looks all the same! While we were there we did enjoy a little look at the cemitiere Eglise Saint Germain de Charonne behind the church.

We took the metro/bus back to Bastille for the Marche de la Creation Bastille and really enjoyed seeing the artwork there. After a nice lunch, we rested for a bit. Good thing, because we met fellow bloggers Janet Kincaid and Maya Lucchita and some of their friends at the Musee d'Orsay at five and wandered the area behind the museum. A short rain shower drove us inside a nearby cafe for wine and much laughing and chatting. A delicious dinner in Montparnasse capped the evening off. Another late night and long day. Bonsoir!