Day 45 - Paris - Marseille

Wednesday, August 15th, 2018.

We took the Ouigo train from Paris to Marseille. This train is cheaper than the SNCF, but you can only buy the tickets online. It was only a 3-hour ride, but I had to wear earplugs because we were sitting behind a big, noisy family. The children didn't stop fighting and screaming. Luckily I spent most of my time writing and took a nap. Our friend Virginie came to pick us up. I have to say that it felt great to have someone welcome us. I made a promise to myself that I will try my best to go pick up our guests at home when possible. I can not describe the welcome feeling of having someone knowing where she is going. When we came home, she told us that we would stay in their neighbor's apartment, which is right above their house, all to ourselves! I couldn't believe it. It was amazing. He is a retired architect so the place is modern, with lots of windows, an amazing view of the Mediterranean sea and a well-equipped kitchen!
The kids were so thrilled that when I asked them if they wanted to stay here longer they both yelled yes in a second, but I meant France, not the apartment. Obviously, the owners are coming back by the end of the month.
We got to settle in the place and then we came downstairs to catch up with the Amabile Family which Greg and I hadn't seen for 19 years! They were our neighbors back in Palo Alto, where we lived right after we got married. I grew fond of Virginie who was one of my first friends in the US. I loved playing with the girls, who are now 25 and 26, and spending time with them!
We sat in the kitchen snacking on roasted almonds and sunflower seeds while Virginie and her daughters prepared dinner. I really enjoyed just chatting and drinking, taking our time while dinner was ready. By 9:00pm we were ready to sit outside in their beautiful garden and enjoy a big dinner of steak, potatoes, salad and cheese and yogurt for dessert. Gregory and I are loving France. I think the kids are too.
At one point I asked Virginie if she remembered how we met, and Clara, her younger daughter jumped in to say: I remember that you brought us a plastic pumpkin full of candy when we moved in in October. Virginie added: "yes, we got nice neighbors, you made the move Lili." I honestly did not remember but I'm happy they did!
It was a great night, which by the way, ended at midnight.

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