BACK HOME

I am still on a cloud with my head spinning from so much activity. I have had a most excellent adventure. Dawne and I both had some Lucy and Ethel moments, some time for deep reflection, and memories that words will never be able to express.

Thank you my dear friend for sharing the adventure with me. To everyone at the Tennis Channel, you have given me the greatest trip of my life. Neil Roberts and Cari Buck: You have made my dream come true. To Murphy (Mr. Totally Cool and I want to hang with him again) and his great crew, thank you for making it fun. The staff at Hotel Scribe: Merci de vous etre si bien occupe de nous. Family and friends in Rapid City, South Dakota, Va. Beach, Virginia, Maryland, and everyone in Richmond, Virginia that has shared in my excitement from that first day I found out I had won. Doug, thanks for watching my fur kids. Roland Garros was just amazing to me.

I loved every minute there. Paris is a world of art and charm. If I were to describe Paris and Parisians I would say, “Effortless Elegance”. Merci beaucoup Paris. J'ai été enchanté pour visiter votre ville et espoir de venir ici encore. Adieu. So I get home, can barely tell what time or day it is, sunburn peeling like Silence of the Lambs, and like any true tennis fan, flip on the Tennis Channel to catch the action I missed in transit. They are after all, the home of the slams.

Good to be home, I was missed.

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DAY 5

I can’t believe it is already my last full day here.  There is so much yet to see.  I am ready to soak up as much of Paris as I can. 

My first destination is Galeries Lafayette.  There is a café with a great view that was recommended.  I had one of those Lucy and Ethel moments all by myself and ended up on the third floor of one of the largest bookstores I have ever seen.  Not wishing to spend my day lost inside a shopping gallery I ventured back toward the Seine.  I just want to walk and peer up side streets, window shop and just be.  I reach the Louvre and turn in my next planned venture, Les Jardin des Tuileries.  It is a beautifully appointed garden with lots of spaces off from the main walkway.  There are many little hidden treasures of peace and beauty. 

The Parisians have it right. 

People are just taking their time to enjoy a leisurely lunch by one of the ponds.  Reading their papers and just sitting back to relax.  The tourists are on the move from one point to the next.  The locals are sitting back and watching it all go by.  Not in such a hurry about everything and completely at ease with the pace of life. 

After a nice stroll I pick one of the many chairs they have sitting about.  Some are reclining and I find one of these close to the pond.  The sun is filtering lightly through the clouds.  It is a cooler day and I am enjoying sitting by the water, munching on a pasty (see note from yesterday – yum!) and a café crème.  Yes, a slower pace to things, no lunch on the run and madly texting your time away.  After enjoying my time in the park I headed across the Seine to the Musee d’Orsay.  This museum is amazing if you are not up to the size and crowd of the Louvre.  I was truly impressed not only with the immense collection of works they house but the setting is breathtaking.  They have made this a showplace of style and design. 

I lost track of time wandering from area to area.  I would absolutely come to this museum again and I highly recommend it to any one that visits here.  I really could have spent more time here but as I said, I lost track of time and they are getting ready to close.  Back outside I head along the river to the Pont Alexandre this is one of the most beautiful bridges to walk across. 

To one end is the Esplanade des Invalides and the Hotel des Invalides, which is a striking structure.  I have noticed on almost every bus there is a Roland Garros emblem.  Or a Longines tennis reference and of course Lacoste is everywhere.  Tennis stars cover the magazines; this city has French Open fever.  After crossing I head up the av des Champs Elysees.  You start out in another green space and then you hit the part of the avenue that cannot be any more chic.  This is the place to see and be seen.  If you have the money, this place is where you spend it. 

Did I mention that people watching is a sport here?  This is the grand slam event of people watching.  At all the café’s the outdoor seating faces outward.  It actually was the case in most outdoor café’s but taken to the next level here.  And the efficient use of space did catch me off guard. 

Walking along you see Hermes, Cartier, a BMW dealership.  Yes, tucked in a storefront like you were going to the Gap, a BMW dealership.  They had maybe 5 or so cars on display.  Must be rare since BMW I thought; until a couple of blocks later and there was the Peugeot dealership.  All decked out as the official car of Roland Garros.  Yes, tennis is everywhere in this city. 

The Champs Elysees meets with many other roads at Place Charles de Gaulle.  This is the location of the magnificent Arc de Triomphe.  But to that in a moment.  Place Charles de Gaulle has got to be the most dangerous intersection on the planet.  I stood in sheer amazement at the flow (?) of traffic.  No less than twelve roads lead into this circle around the monument and with no discernable lanes, traffic signals or order.  You basically get in this circle and drive around to the road you want and then you kind of pull out in front of people and go or if you are too deep in the circle you stop in front of people in different lanes (I use the term loosely) and keep them stuck until you can get in front of someone else and make your turn.  Under no circumstances do you waste your time going around the circle again to try and safely get to the outer rim. 

I am just amazed at this scene, and they are okay with it and there were no accidents while I was watching.  Thank goodness you go by pedestrian tunnel underground to get to the Arc.  I did not get to the Arc though as I by pure chance came on a day and time that there was an official ceremony taking place.  There was a military band and honor guard at attention.  There were many people that appeared to be dignitaries in attendance.  Because of the history of the Arc and those it now honors it was a good reminder again of what this and so many other European cities have endured.  It has become a little chilly and a light rain is falling.  It’s time for a café and croissant break.  I decided next to take a little ride on one of the elevated trains and just relax and enjoy the view.  I got off at Trocadero Square and had the loveliest view of the Tower Eiffel.  This has to be one of the most picturesque views of the tower. 

I watched as darkness crept in and the tower lit up.  Saw the brave souls lining up for a ride to the top.  Going to pass on that one.  Just wanted to end my evening with a final walk around.  I felt perfectly safe walking around the area at night.  There is a lot of security around the tower and the surrounding park areas.  And once back to the streets the café’s are open and bustling with activity.  The shops may close early but the café’s are happening places late into the evening.  So much energy, animated conversation and laughter.  From Ecole Militaire I catch the metro back to place de l’Opera and the beautiful Opera de Paris Garnier.  I take a final stroll around the area with the vibrant café activity and head to the Hotel Scribe and my most comfortable and welcoming bed. 

I have had a full and fulfilling day. 

Bonsoir Paris.
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Day 4

London Calling….

Did I mention it was sunny yesterday?  Got serious sunburn going on today but would not have missed a minute of it.  It has been much warmer than I expected; don’t know how the players do it.   Today is overcast and looks like rain.  Hope they get the matches in. 

We are off early to catch the train to London.  Let me say when Eurostar says first class they mean it.  We had a comfortable and luxurious trip.  The staff on the train was attentive and we had a delightful breakfast.  Relaxing in comfortable seats we watched the French countryside glide by.  Now I admit I was a little trepiditious about the Chunnel but it was very quick. 

It was difficult to decide what to do in London when there for just a day.  It is an enormous city and is very spread out.  Still feeling the effects of sunburn and lots of activity we decided to buy a travelcard for the day.  It is good for busses and the tube and is a great sightseeing bargain for less than six pounds.  From the King’s Cross – St. Pancras station we took the tube to Liverpool street and then boarded the #11 bus which was a double decker and road around the city.  It was a great way to see a lot of sights without wearing out our already tired feet.  We made a few stops along the way including the Victoria Station area, Piccadilly Circus and the Waterloo/London Eye area.  We also had a chance to cross the Tower Bridge and catch a glimpse of the Tower of London. 

As we made our way back we made our final stop at Covent Garden upon the recommendation of a Londoner that we met at The Bar in the Atlanta airport.  It was the best spot for the end of our London visit.  Several streets become pedestrian only and all converge on a square and Covent Garden Market.  Very cool marketplace.  Along with chic shopping a bargain hunters dream.  Great art, clothing, jewelry, and handcrafted items.  This is your chance to talk to the person that actually makes it.  There are food and drink establishments of all sorts throughout and a fruit and vegetable market on the other side.  Street performers, a large variety of vendors and sunny but cooler temps made this a perfect stop. 

I must rave about an item that Dawne had read about.  The “West Cornwall Pasty” is a must have if you ever get a chance to have one.  A delicious and hearty handheld potpie and they have a great variety to choose from.  From steak & St. Austell Ale to cheese, tomato & basil, and a lamb & mint if that’s what you crave.  Okay, now I seriously need one of these in my neighborhood.  You can’t visit London and not hit a pub and we meandered down the street and came upon a nice place called “Marquess of Anglesey”.  They had a very friendly staff and we got a perfect table by the window so we could people watch.  The Waggle Dance Honey Ale was quite nice and I also for the first time had pear cider.  Ice cold in a chilled glass and as fresh and tasty as one could hope.  This stuff is the champagne of ciders and I must find this when I get home. 

Finally we were back at the station and returning to Paris.  But my trip to London was not over yet.  The ride in that morning was lovely; the ride home was only missing a piano player and Bing Crosby. 

Once the train departed we were greeted with warm face cloths and chilled Champagne.  I could get used to traveling like this.  A delicious meal with a nice wine and we sailed along the countryside as it slowly drifted toward a beautiful sunset. 

I can’t thank the Tennis Channel enough for their great treatment.  We also had two very delightful young women on the staff that just embodied friendliness and good service.  Fadela  and Olfa were so excited to hear about our trip courtesy of the Tennis Channel and they were great answering our questions about things we had seen in Paris that we wanted to know more about.  They were both knowledgeable and open as we asked more about lifestyle and cultural differences.  Our entire experience with Eurostar was elegance and ease. 

I am truly having a dream vacation.
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DAY 3

Up and ready for my 2nd day at Roland Garros.  I am very pumped.  I know the layout of the grounds and the line-up on court Philippe Chatrier is perfect.  There is an amazing day awaiting myself and tens of thousands of other fans. 

I was expecting Paris in the spring to be a little cooler.  This is beach weather.  They were calling for rain but I don’t see any sign of it.  Nothing but “Blues skies shining on me” as the song goes.  I thought there was excitement in the air yesterday, wowee, with some big names hitting the courts today it has gone up to the next level.  There are so many fans here it is just vibrating in the air.  From suits and ties to flip flops and t-shirts, every kind of fan is here.  The crowd is jazzed and in every language you can think of the conversations are animated. 

My first stop is of course the awesome seats on Chatrier courtesy of Tennis Channel.  I really do have a great view of the action.  Dinara Safina is first up and she is my pick to win the women’s singles.  She played a great match and looks every bit the #1 player ready to take her crown.  I am going to take a break from the stadium action and go meet Murphy Jensen.

Murphy is the man.  He is every bit as genuine and good-natured as he appears.  My thanks to Murphy, Evan de Rouin and the camera and sound crew.  They made the experience fun, quick, and easy for me.  My friends and family will tell you that I get very nervous in front of cameras and turn into a female Jerry Lewis.  They were so cool; I cannot thank you guys enough and hope some of the footage is useable.  Murphy is a rock star out there and people couldn’t wait to meet him.  Hanging with Murphy was fun but Rafa is soon to take the court and I don’t want to miss a minute.

The rest of my afternoon is a tennis junkie dream come true.  Rafa, Roger Federer, and Marion Bartoli are all winners and we even got some bonus play when the Wozniacki match was moved to our court.  Again I find myself wishing I could be everywhere at once.  So many people I want to see, Roddick, Venus and Serena Williams, and Agnieszka Radwanska.  David Ferrer and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. 

They are all here and I am totally geeking out about it.  Oh to be riding atop the Tennis Channel camera and seeing the action everywhere.  When you are here you cannot help but again and again to be impressed by the athleticism of the players.  They give so much of themselves to each match.  I am just amazed at what they can do.  I have done my souvenir shopping and have tons of memories to take with me.  The French Open fans are really great.  They cheer for good play no matter whom they want to win.  They are fair, fun, and vocal.  The food vendors are not like what we normally have at sporting events in the U.S.  No popcorn and cotton candy here.  Pastry’s, Panini’s, salads, wine, cappuccino, and let’s not forget the ice cream!  Like I said, these people know how to live. 

The shadows are getting longer and as the light begins to fade I know my time here will soon be at an end.  I close my eyes and take a deep breath and try to make time stop.  I really could spend every day here.  I know I will get excellent coverage from Tennis Channel when I get home but it is hard for me to tear myself away.  Paris has a radiant light of its own and the red clay of Roland Garros is unique and special in its own way as well. 

I am truly fortunate to have won such an amazing trip.  I am off to continue my adventure, we have a day trip to London tomorrow; but a part of me is here always as it will always be with me.
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DAY 2

ROLAND GARROS!! 

The hallowed ground, the enticing red clay.  The surface that strikes love, hope, challenge, and many times despair into all that would conquer it.  I am here; I am among my people.  You can feel the energy and excitement instantly.  Had another one of those “I must be in a dream” moments and just stopped to soak it all in.  I am overwhelmed and overjoyed. 

TENNIS CHANNEL I LOVE YOU!!!!  This really is a once in a lifetime moment.  Just wanted to walk around and soak up some of this atmosphere.  Have you ever wanted to be in several places at once?  That is what I am feeling standing here.  This is more than a tennis tournament; it is a tennis festival, a celebration of the sport. 

What an amazing environment for players and fans to unite.  Tennis Channel provided excellent seating in Court Philippe Chatrier.  The grounds pass alone is awesome.  You can go to almost any of the smaller courts and catch some up close action.  When you go to the outer courts you get a real feel for the texture of the clay.  I am in tennis geek heaven and I can’t hide it! 

Caught a little bit of the Cilic match on an outer court.  Also got a chance to see Davydenko on the practice court.  Was getting ready to move on when Tommy Haas shows up for his practice session.  Of course I had to stay for some of that.  There is action everywhere, it seems that every court is in some use.  The fans are loving it.  Early in the tournament is great because everyone is here.  What amazing athletes these players are. 

It is sunny and quite warm and I am working on a sunburn and getting worn out just walking around.  To put the physical effort that they do into a match is quite a feat.  My compliments to all the players, you have grit!  Making my way back to Chatrier court I am pleased to say that they have started day 1 of the open with a bang.  There are just so many things to see and of course the all time Parisian activity of people watching.  That too is a sport.  The play on center court today has been entertaining.  I have seen a lot and yet I know I have only scratched the surface. 

The cool thing about watching on the Tennis Channel is they have coverage on most courts.  You really can keep up with all the action.  I could keep doing this all day but the light is fading and so my first day at Roland Garros comes to an end.  But lucky lady that I am, I will be back tomorrow.  

I HAD AN AMAZING DAY!!!!!
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DAY 1

I would like to begin by giving my thanks to the Tennis Channel.  I was already a big fan of the network and this is the ultimate gift.  A special note of thanks to Neil Roberts and Cari Buck; Neil has been so generous and helpful and Cari has been a hardworking woman to help make this the easiest trip to take.

The adventure has begun.  We arrived in Paris at the crack of dawn and exhausted but excited we made our way to the opera district and the luxurious Hotel Scribe.  Hotel Scribe is beautiful and elegant but the shining star of this hotel is the amazing staff.  From the moment we walked in the door jet lagged and wide eyed they have been kind, friendly, and helpful.  Just being in this hotel makes me feel tres chic.  Though quite early in the morning they had a room ready for us.  We settled in, rested briefly and then were out the door.

I have never been a believer in love at first sight, but it has happened with the city of Paris and me.  Every view is a picture.  This city is overflowing with charm and it gracefully blends the old and the new.  You must walk around in Paris.  You will miss a lot if you only use the metro.  There is care and devotion in the way people live here.  Even though it is a major metropolitan city there is nature everywhere.  Window boxes filled with plants and a multitude of colorful flowers adorn almost every window you see.  Rooftop gardens are the standard and most apartment buildings strike you with a lush green forest on the top.  Unexpected and perfectly in place. 

Paris also impressed me with another aspect of respect for nature.  Recycling bins alongside trash cans, an enormous use of bikes and scooters, and eco-friendly cars.  I have never been in a city that was so bike friendly.  There are designated bike lanes everywhere and they are well used.  Other things Parisians clearly love are their dogs and their ice cream.  Paris is not only bike friendly but dog friendly as well.  Dogs resting at their owners feet outside a café and yes, dogs on the metro (subway)!  These things all were very apparent as we strolled along the boulevards and made our way towards the Louvre. 

The Louvre is HUGE and just being near such a concentration of art and beauty filled me with joy.  The Louvre however was not our destination.  After walking around the courtyard in a light rain we crossed the Seine and walked along the banks.  The sky cleared and the sun broke through and I had to catch my breath.  When the sunlight radiates on this magical city it creates a special light.  Paris truly has a glow of its own.  We continued down the Seine gawking and remarking at every view, every street vendor, and every bakery.  Finally we came to Ile De La Cite, one of the islands in the Seine.  We went to Sainte-Chapelle and I am telling you this is a must see sight if you are ever here.  The stained glass in the upper chapel is unlike anything I have ever seen.  There are no words that can truly relate the experience.  As the sun and clouds outside change and move there is a one of kind light show taking place inside.  It was very emotional for both of us to think about the age of this structure and all it has survived. 

Revolutions, wars, disasters both natural and manmade and it survived.  Sometimes by chance but more often by the love and devotion of those who protected it and those whose respect for it would not let it be destroyed.  After re-gathering ourselves we made the trek just a few streets away to Cathedrale Notre-Dame.  WOW!!  I can only attest to the beauty and architecture of the outside because the line to get in was extremely long.  It is a magnificent structure and a testament to the creativity of devotion.  Around the back there is a lovely garden and green space and I was soon to discover that gardens and parks and lovely little spaces are everywhere here.  We crossed the pont St-Louis to get the other island.  I will say it right now, if I ever lived in Paris Ile St-Louis would be the spot.  This little island oozes charm and if you want to see a post card picture of Paris this is it.  The way the light shines, the breathtaking views, the street performers, the shopping, and the ice cream are all very good reasons to spend some time here.  I said before that Parisians love their ice cream and the best is here.  Every one comes here for ice cream at Berthillon and with good reason.  There are a unique variety of flavors and they taste purely of what they say.  There is no “kind of tastes like”; it really is true to flavor.  There is a line for this ice cream and from what I understand there always is.  The locals line up along with the tourists (yes, a tour group makes this a stop) and it is well worth it. 

There are a multitude of greats shops here as well.  One that totally grabbed me was Pylones.  I love this place.  Imagine your most common household items taken art deco.  Very cool place and well worth a visit.  Looking in the windows of the cheese and pastry shops is a treat in itself.  This island truly has it all.  After ice cream and shopping we stopped at a café, La Sarrasine, which specialized in crepes.  YUM!!!  I really need one of these in my neighborhood. 

We sat and had a delightful meal and tasty wine.  I again was struck with the friendliness and relaxed demeanor of the locals.  They know how to live.  After soaking up the atmosphere on Ile St-Louis we continued our walking tour and make our way toward the Pompidou Centre.  It is a striking contrast of modern in the middle of classic design.  Walking back toward the hotel we just wandered from street to street, there is something wonderful to see around every corner.  We had hoped to go out dancing and discover Paris nightlife but after an overnight flight and nearly seven hours of walking and standing our feet had the final say and we were ready for rest.  Hotel Scribe has the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in.  It was like being cuddled in a cloud. 

As I am drifting off I have a smile on my face for Roland Garros awaits me tomorrow.