blackcatinparis

Our first month was Paris was a combination of unpacking, resting and walking the neighborhood.

UNPACKING what we brought with us was quick and easy, we had each had 3 suitcases and a backpack, plus Maura kitty. What would you pack to get by in a new place for 90 days until your household container shipment arrived? I’ll create a separate post about what we chose and how well we packed. Another part of unpacking was tackling necessary administrative tasks. We validated our visas, went to a new vet and got Maura her EU pet passport. She can now travel throughout Europe and back to France without the onerous import/export animal regulations it took to get here. We set up utilities for the apartment and got eSIMs for our phones and French phone numbers. A shopping trip to the electronics store to replace everything that plugs in (US cords don’t fit into French outlets and using converters long term shortens the life of appliances). That meant new cell phone cords, coffee maker, tea kettle, flat iron, electric razor, and space fan. Fortunately, our furnished apartment already came with lamps, microwave, toaster, vacuum and iron. And we’re working on learning the French language.

REST- The level of exhaustion from the moving logistics and culture shock was a surprise. It shouldn’t have been, an international move is a heavy lift physically and emotionally! I decided it was ok to sleep in, take naps, move slowly and do quiet things to recuperate properly. Maura hid under the bed for days, the travel and new home have been a big adjustment for her. She’s doing great now! She loves to look out the windows, sleep in the sunshine and she thinks French cat food is tasty. My energy level and mental clarity is coming back, but I’m still not 100% yet. Kevin on the other hand bounced back in about a week and has been zipping about and being creative. Good for him! He’s the roadrunner, I’m the turtle.

WALKING THE NEIGHBORHOOD has served many purposes and is wonderful! First, we needed to get familiar with our new environment and find out where to get things we need on a regular basis, like groceries and toilet paper, baguettes and wine! Secondly, we wanted to learn more about this beautiful and historic city and enjoy the culture and atmosphere. Our goal is to experience 1 to 2 places special to Paris every week, and we still won’t be able to see it all in one year! Third, the exercise will do us good, improving our energy, endurance and strength. Paris is a very walkable city and part of the culture itself. We don’t have a car, we rely on walking and public transportation. The Metro train and bus system is excellent for trips outside ‘my range.’ In one month, I’ve progressed from walking 2 miles a couple of times a week in Chicago to easily walking 1-4 miles per day in Paris.

Month 2’s goal is to get into an everyday routine and meet people!