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Friday Flotsam

By on February 26, 2016 in Friday Flotsam

F R I D A Y                                                                                                              !!!!

Dried Hanging Eucaplytus

Have you ever looked at the calendar on your Iphone?

Okay, go bring it up real quick. Let’s say maybe you want to know what day of the week your birthday will land on, in say, 2028. So you can scroll down and easily find it. Keep scrolling. Past 2028. If you think it will stop at a certain point, IT WON’T. It goes on forever. As in, FOREVUUUUR. (Sandlot style)

And this is even more trippy – you can scroll up to freaking beginning of TIME. Like, it will take you back to 1. And then it’s all the dates BC. Go do it! It’s bizarro-land  to see a calendar, on a smart, technologicalizationed device, with a calendar showing BC dates! We’re talking camels and rope sandals and flax robes and a TON of beards. It blows me away!

This is what I think about at night. This is also why I have very little human friends.

Chillin' BAES - Friday Flotsam

So, I’ve got some insanely fun news. It’s slightly terrifying for me, because I’m such a hermit homebody. But on the flip side, it’s completely terrifying for the other side of the world, becauuuuse. . . .

I’m going to Paris and London next month! And I’ve never been! And I’m scared!

Get this, I’m going to be blogging all about the Eurostar train experience. Like Girl on the Train, minus all the murders and adultery. You know.

I so want to release a bunch of flying exclamation points out of their cage right now, but I’ll keep it low key so you don’t throw your computer out of a high rise window.

Me! In Europe! (<–fail) I do have a lot of black and white stripes, so I feel this is a good fit.

QUESTION: What on EARTH do I bring to Europe? And I mean like, are there weird adapters and phone chargers I need to think about? What about money? Do I get travelers checks? Will my minty fresh lip balm not work over there? Just kidding.

Maybe.

Seriously though, if you’re a seasoned traveler, please tell me what I need to remember for My National Bev’s European Vacation. Hahahaha! Ha hah a.  Ha.

Ha?

Mom Top Knot - Friday Flotsam

Mawms, I’ve got a story for you.

And it involves poop, so if you’re easily skeeved, you might want to scroll on by. But you know you’re curious now. So just stay, already.

Okay, we’ve got sort of a situation on our hands in this house. A little over a week ago, the kiddos were taking a bath. Happy, playing with toys, la dee da. I stepped out to grab something, and when I came back, the tub was filled with poop. (you’re x-ing out right now, I can feel it)

Okay, my husband can vouch for me on this – we did NOT make a huge scene about it in a way sort of maybe. My voice barely went up. My anxiety pretty much sort of stayed in place, as we retrieved the little children out of the bathtub after a quick rinse. No freaking out happened. Mostly.

Ever since then, they refuse to bathe. And I mean, they scream bloody murder when it’s bath time, and psychotically fight us getting in the tub.

But listen! We changed out the slip mat, threw away the toys, bought new ones, bleached the tub, etc. But it’s still a brutal task that I now completely dread. Is this my fault? Don’t answer that.

What do I DO. I will say, Nat’s a teeeeeensy bit better. But Will still acts like the bathtub is Carol Anne’s bedroom closet from Poltergeist.

Do you think it’s because they’ve never seen their own poo before? They had no idea what it was, and when Aaron and I grabbed them out of the bath, they now associate it with something horrible that came FROM the bathtub? That’s Aaron’s theory. Ugh, this is stressing me out. I need tacos.

And to change the subject.

Branch + Amber + Mustard

Did you know that in the beginning of Mary Poppins when all the nannies are being blown away in the wind, that’s mostly men in drag!? I love movie trivia.

Quiz me on something! I’m always the quizzer. I want to be the quizzee for a change. Quizee? Quizzeee? Quizzzze? Never mind.

Guestroom Side Table Setting - Friday Flotsam

Weekend plans? We have guests in town, and it’s going to be 68 degrees (!!!) tomorrow, so I think we’ll be doing something outside.

And by something, I mean obsessing over time travel iPhone calendars, “don’t-forget” Europe lists, and bathtub poop theories.

(also, Landry and Tyra – ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooomg)

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48 Responses to Friday Flotsam

  1. Bryn Broussard February 26, 2016 at 7:56 am #
    Same thing happened in my house! Brutal bc bath time had previously been the most relaxing time of the day. My solution? One morning when my husband was home I slipped away and ran a bath for myself in the kids tub. When he brought them in yo brush their teeth there I was having a grand old time with their toys. They of course made a big deal about wanting to get in and I played like I didn't want to get out. Eventually I have in and let them have their tub back. Cheesy but it worked for me!
    Reply
  2. Steph February 26, 2016 at 8:22 am #
    Your trip sounds so exciting! Yes travel adapter also sometimes things don't work because of the voltage difference. I fried my hair straighteners :(
    Reply
  3. Tara February 26, 2016 at 8:32 am #
    I feel like I have had the opposite bathtime poop experience. My two-year-old twins get so relaxed in the tub they have somewhat frequently began pooping in the tub. Like twice in the past week frequently. Every time before bathtime I ask them to please not poop in the bathtub, doesn't really work. I have tried waiting until after they poop in their diaper before putting them in the tub, but it's hard to catch a time when they have both just recently gone. Good luck getting them back in the tub!
    Reply
  4. Morgan February 26, 2016 at 9:07 am #
    Paris and France in general is AMAZING. If you can go so Southern France at all, DO IT. Be prepared to walk. A lot. But it's the best. Every bite of food I had there was incredible. Oddly enough, the best pizza I've ever had was in France. The Louvre was okay. It's basically a mall with a museum in it. We walked around a bit and just sat in the massgey chairs at Sharper Image and fell asleep because HEY WALKING AND TIME CHANGE. Also, the time change is cray. So, stay awake when they're awake and try to get adjusted. Also, I didn't need to know any French even though I did know some. All you have to do is say "parlez-vous anglais?" And then they'll speak English with you. Everyone was so nice, despite what people always say. Last tip: There will be lots of guys walking around selling flowers. Walk away. Or they will try to kiss your cheek and then suck on it. True story. I know nothing about London but I'm sure it's cool, too. Have fun! I'm excited for you!
    Reply
  5. Leann February 26, 2016 at 9:15 am #
    Paris will change you FOREVUUUUR. It did me at least. I love everything about it; the flower markets on the streets, baskets of flowers that hang off street lights, the cafes, the chocolate croissants, the coffee, the beautiful shops, the leisurely pace, the architecture. I can't name everything I love about Paris. The list is simply too long. I can only hope you have the same feeling when you are back home. I am so envious and so excited for you. Please share every moment with us!
    Reply
  6. Sarah Buchanan February 26, 2016 at 9:26 am #
    So excited to hear Europe is happening!!!!! Just eat all the croissants and drink all the wine. Nothing else matters, Bev. Nothing.
    Reply
  7. Jessica February 26, 2016 at 9:32 am #
    London is the greatest city ever!! Be sure to have a delicious bowl of ramen at Wagamama while you are there. Hair dryers, flat irons and curling irons tend to fry even with a good adapter. I recommend buying cheap ones when you get there and you can use them again on your next trip!
    Reply
  8. Mo February 26, 2016 at 10:02 am #
    Make sure your phone is set to work in Europe before you go. I usually just go to a big bank and exchange dollars for Euros before I leave (so that I have cash for a cab or something). Also, certain places in both Paris and London only take credit cards with the chips in them. My favorite area in Paris is Le Marais and my museum faves are the Picasso Museum and the Musee d'Orsay (sorry Louvre you are just too big!). London I like the Victoria and Albert Design Museum. Both cities are awesome, with great food. You'll have a blast.
    Reply
  9. Nicole February 26, 2016 at 10:15 am #
    Two bathtub poops last week. Dad was more traumatized than baby. Now we wait it out a bit longer after dinner before bath time.
    Reply
  10. Anonymous February 26, 2016 at 10:37 am #
    Let them sit on the toilet before bath time, with the water running. Eventually one of them will do something in the toilet and that will be the start of learning to go potty.
    Reply
  11. Liz February 26, 2016 at 10:42 am #
    The hubs and I are at the same point as you (pretty close) on Friday Night Lights and I am a wee bit obsessed. Just started Season 2 and like 4 episodes in and.....Landry and Tyra ooooooooooooMG! That show, I kinda want to marry it....so good!
    Reply
    • Bev Weidner February 26, 2016 at 10:53 am #
      I KNOW. I KNOW. I KNOW. I KNOW. I'm about halfway through season two and it's completely bonkers. A bit off track and dark, but hoooooooly cow, so good. You'll flip out in a few more episodes. FLIP.OUT.
      Reply
  12. Kara February 26, 2016 at 10:45 am #
    Put them in the tub with no water and let them play with their toys. They will soon be asking you to fill the tub so that they can have some fun.
    Reply
  13. Heather February 26, 2016 at 11:04 am #
    Love Europe! For money we mostly used our credit cards, which worked great. It's too bad that France and England don't have the same currency as each other. When we went a couple of years ago it was shocking to see how much stuff cost as the American dollar's value wasn't as good as Pounds or Euros :(. Hopefully, our value has gone up! If you have the time we have found that doing bike tours of the cities are really worth it because you get to see most of the city and learn about it too, plus you get a bit of exercise! Paris was a tad bit scary riding a bike in the city because they have crazy drivers, but so worth it! Yes, you will need adapters for your stuff. Have a great trip! We are going back to Europe this fall and I can't wait!
    Reply
  14. Laura February 26, 2016 at 11:04 am #
    You will love Europe. Take an adapter, but you may find that the hotels supply them for you. Don't take travelers checks, they are a big hassle, you have to find a bank to convert them. Take a pre paid charge card and convert any money you want in cash at your bank before your trip. They will give you that days rate of exchange. Take comfortable walking shoes and a light sweater. I layer. Eat everything you have never eaten before and photograph it so you can remake it. I did that when i went to Italy, if my best friend could not be with me, i wanted her to see exactly what i was eating. You will fall in love with the country, the pace of life and rhythm of the city. Take a larger suitcase than needed because you will want to stuff it full of things you buy. Most of all ENJOY!!!
    Reply
  15. Laura February 26, 2016 at 11:06 am #
    Oh, as far as the poopy tub, start giving them showers, it is faster and they can pay with toys out of the tub. I personally didn't like all of the filling and draining of the tub. I hope they will not be traumatized for too long.
    Reply
  16. MissMary February 26, 2016 at 11:22 am #
    London & Paris are amazing! No to travelers checks. Make sure your credit card has the 'chip', these are used everywhere in Europe (no swipe cards there (they can but it takes longer & they scowl at you). Also, some small restaurants only take cash (Euros), it's marked on the window but be sure to always have Euros. Your bank can get Euros before you go but they typically need 2 weeks to order them. Yes, you need electrical adaptors for your phone and hair tools. Also, get a monthly international plan for your cell phone to avoid a pricey bill. Make copies of your passport & credit card, leave a copy with the hubs. You'll have an amazing time! Can't wait to hear the deets!! Some great tips/recommendations: http://theeverygirl.com/5-tips-to-avoid-looking-like-a-tourist-in-france http://theeverygirl.com/category/london
    Reply
  17. Dee @ The Kitchen Snob February 26, 2016 at 11:57 am #
    When we got married in Italy (brag) I had to get a special blow dryer with a different wattage (actually it has 2 wattages so I can use it in the U.S. too). It's super tiny but pretty powerful for such a small one. If you want the brand I can let you know. A blow dryer was my #1 worry because I have the WORST air-dried hair ever.
    Reply
  18. Leilani February 26, 2016 at 12:02 pm #
    We had a similar love to hate experience over the bath. We were out of town and gave her a bath, she cried. I thought she was tired. We came home and she hated the bath. I tried a few things with no luck. Finally, my husband an idea similar to Bryn's. He put on his swim trunks and got in the tub with her. After that bathtime was back on track. Good luck!
    Reply
  19. Erin February 26, 2016 at 12:28 pm #
    - Adapter - yes for most things. If you'll bring a laptop, hair dryer, etc, you'll also need a convertor to convert the wattage and not fry your devices. - For cash (you'll need it for some places), it can be easiest just to use an ATM there, since you'll need both Euros and Pounds. You'll just need to call your bank and tell them where you're traveling beforehand so you're not denied. Same with your credit cards. If your card has a chip, make sure you know its pin #. - When you take the Eurostar between England and France, make sure to arrive at least an hour early to go through security/customs and board (similar to an airport). - Jetlag will make you hungry at odd times, which is a great excuse to stop off for a french or british snacks, but pack some snacks from home for middle of the night cravings. - If you want to go up in the Eiffel Tower, go online and get a reserved ticket now (they usually sell out in advance). You'll still wait a bit, but not nearly as long as the first-come first-serve line, and it's totally worth it. Musee D'Orsay and L'Orangerie are awesome. For the Louvre, you can go in and see the few most famous things pretty quickly, otherwise, eh. The Museum pass is worth it if you're going to do a few sites - it lets you use a different line to enter. Notre Dame and Saint Chapelle are gorgeous. Going to the top of the Arc D'Triumph at night is fun, and near fancy bakeries and shopping on the Champs Elysees. Also: chocolat croissants, macarons, comte cheese and baguettes, kirs or kir royales. - I don't know London as well, but Rick Steves' books have never steered me wrong :) - ZZZQuill works great for me for the red-eye flight over there.
    Reply
    • Natalie February 26, 2016 at 2:03 pm #
      I have to been to both cities many times and Erin's advice is spot on. Find out if your bank has any affiliates in Europe so you don't get charged fees for withdrawing cash. I use Bank of America and found BNP Paribas in Paris and Barclays in London are "affiliates." - you can just buy a SIM card there if your phone is unlocked. It's super cheap to do, and usually less than getting an international calling plan. -comfy walking shoes are a MUST!! -museums in London are wonderful and all are free!! My faves are the British Museum, National Portrait Gallery, & Natural History Musuem. The Tower of London is awesome to see, as are the beautiful parks. I would recommend doing afternoon tea. I was just in London last month and had tea at the Royal Horseguards. My daughter currently lives in London so I have so many more suggestions :) Feel free to email me. -drink champagne every day while in Paris!!
      Reply
  20. Lindsay February 26, 2016 at 12:39 pm #
    Bev the same thing happened to me with my two year old. She pooped in the tub last week and now she is terrified of the bath!!! I don't know what to do.
    Reply
  21. Joni February 26, 2016 at 12:45 pm #
    Now I have to go watch Mary Poppins immediately. Men in drag: what.
    Reply
  22. Deanna February 26, 2016 at 1:06 pm #
    My big tip before traveling internationally is to get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. (I have Chase Sapphire and a Capital One card) (not an ad) I'm from California, but live in New Zealand and when I first moved here and hadn't set up my bank accounts and such they were life savers. No fees, earned miles, and I still occasionally use them. Also, tell your credit card companies where you're going so they don't freeze your account. Adapters you'll definitely need. I had one that had every possible outlet on it and it was AMAZING. Was because I left it at a hotel and never got it back. I haven't been to Europe yet, but I'm moving to England next year and I can't wait rose all the things.
    Reply
  23. Sarah Beth February 26, 2016 at 1:16 pm #
    I'm sooo excited to read about your France experience, I'm going to for the first time in July so I will need all the tips you can give! Have the best time ever :)
    Reply
  24. Amanda Mohr February 26, 2016 at 1:45 pm #
    Bev, You are going to LOVE Europe. It has been right at 10 years since I have been but I do know of some things that you need to remember.... - Make sure to let your bank and credit card companies know the dates of travel so they do not cancel your cards. - Do not do a money exchange until you get there...I have been in banking for 15 years and we always tell our customer's to wait because you will get a better exchange rate once you are there. *There are usually places in the airports and train stations to make this easier. - Do NOT let your passport be taken from your eyesight. I was on a train for overnight and the "guards" on the train tried to take our passports for "safekeeping" overnight. We had to fight them about it (and finally won that fight). - Take an adapter. You can get the whole set for like $10 at Best Buy. - In London, eat at Sherlock Holmes Bar. Amazing Fish & Chips. I hear the beer is good there as well but I am not a beer fan. - If you like crepes, you need to eat at least 1 at one of the sidewalk carts that is within a couple of blocks of the Eiffel Tower. I had a chocolate one and then went back and had a Strawberry on that was a mix of jam and fresh berries. That is all for now but if I think of anything else, I will let you know.
    Reply
  25. Rachel February 26, 2016 at 2:12 pm #
    My husband and I went to Paris a little over two years ago for our 7th anniversary. It totally stole my heart. We were there for three weeks and stayed in Montmartre the entire time in a little flat. It was the best. I tear up when I think about it. I wrote four posts about our trip. Here's a link to one of them with some of our favorite things: http://www.de-ma-cuisine.com/timandrachgotoparis2013-what-we-loved/ . I also have posts about what we ate, what I cooked, and what we saw. A few random thoughts about Paris: Jet lag - don't nap when you get there (unless you arrive at night a-duh). And don't sit around the hotel room or wherever you're staying. The comfy bed will get you ("Dang the French and their comfy beds." Or something like that... Name that show!). My dad always says to take a walk at noon and you will adjust to the time quicker. I don't know if it's true, but it works for him. Metro - If you're staying in Paris a while it's cheaper to get the week metro pass. Be wary of people trying to tie friendship bracelets on you (they will start them and then make you stand there while they finish). They expect you to pay for them. We saw many people trying to do this around Sacré Coeur. Cook'n with Class has great cooking classes for tourists. I took the pastry class (pain au chocolat and croissants!!), bread making (baguettes!!), and the evening market class. They were all amazing! www.cooknwithclass.com The musée pass is totally worth it if you have time. My favorite was l'orangerie (the Monet Waterlilies are spectacular). If you go to Versailles, plan to walk at least 5 miles around the grounds. It's exquisite and just kinda crazy that places like that exist. Notre Dame - climb the 400 steps to the top of the belfry (you can go to the front of the line with your musée pass I think). The view is phenomenal. Same with the view at the top of the Arc de Triomphe (and I think the same deal with the pass). Go at night and if you're up there on the hour you'll see the Eiffel Tower sparkle. It's fabulous. If you make reservations at the Eiffel Tower restaurant (they have a picnic style lunch, not just dinner), you get to skip the longer lines (at least you did 2 years ago). They may weigh your carryon when you return home. So if you've bought all the books from Shakespeare and Company, plus a huge copper skillet from the flea market, they may make you check your bag. ;) The people are wonderful. If you try to speak French, they will acknowledge your efforts and will probably try to speak English. If you just speak English, they might not try because they're very proud and don't want to feel silly. (At least this was our experience. I speak French but my husband doesn't. They were always very patient while he asked me in English how to say something in French and then repeated it to them.) If you find yourself in Montmartre, find a little resto called Au Bon Coin (49 rue des Cloys, Mairie du 18e). The menu is on the wall, but we ordered by looking at what other people were eating and had the best meal ever! We went back three more times and got the exact same thing. Roast beef, the crispiest and most amazing potatoes, green beans, and vin rouge (plus baguettes and beurre). If you're there, look for an old woman with a dog. She will probably be feeding him pâté on a baguette under the table. Her name is Simone. Ugh. I miss this.
    Reply
  26. Megan@Cozy Eats February 26, 2016 at 2:20 pm #
    When I went to New Zealand I used my debit card a lot, the fee was minimal so it worked for me. I also brought cash with me, and exchanged it at a bank. We did this in Canada too, they usually charge a small fee but it's worth it, I like collecting foreign money from the places I have been. :) We brought adapters to NZ too, they are pretty cheap on Amazon!
    Reply
  27. Jacquie February 26, 2016 at 2:51 pm #
    It's been a while for me but I would suggest wearing only drab colored clothing and scarves. I took some brighter, lighter colors and after Day 1, they remained in my luggage. It all was marvelous, you will love it. An escalator experience in Paris was a little frightening...two guys worked as a team; the first was in front of my husband and he pretended to drop something which forced my husband to bend over him exposing his back pockets to the lad behind. We are not that naive; no valuables were in his back pockets. Like another writer commented, the French people quickly switch to English when they realize you don't speak their language. Enjoy!
    Reply
  28. Shereen @ Shereen Travels Cheap February 26, 2016 at 5:47 pm #
    You're going to love London and Paris. We've done it twice. The first time we did Eurostar and the second time we flew on easyJet (loved it!). Bring layers. Sometimes it's warm and sometimes it's stupid cold and we've learned to just bring 4-5 shirts and a few sweaters that can go over in case it's colder. Jeans are always good, especially dark wash ones that are stretchy. You will walk A LOT. Bring comfy shoes, and possibly not boots that are a bit too tight, because between those and all the steps, I ended up with a stress fracture in my foot the last time. You WILL need an adapter for your gadgets. Just get one and then grab a small surge protector to plug into that and plug ALL your gadgets into that. It's easier. Belkin has one with three outlets and two USB ports. We loved our travel one so much that we bought two more for home, because the plug part swivels to fit anywhere. You can check out other tips on my blog for both places or feel free to email me too :)
    Reply
  29. Rachele February 26, 2016 at 8:08 pm #
    So excited for you! First...pickpocketing is REAL. Do not keep anything in your pockets. They are not violent, but they know what they are doing. If you keep nothing in your pockets, it will just be a friendly "how ya doin'". (True story). Also...zipper purses, nothing that someone can reach into. Pull it in front of you when you're in crowds. Second...currency. I find that using my ATM card is the cheapest way to get cash over there. The currency exchanges and banks really charge quite a bit. Check with your bank for details, but this has really worked well for me. Just notify both your credit card company and ATM card bank that you're traveling, and where. Also, make sure you have the numbers for your accounts and phone numbers for your bank/credit company in case something gets lost. 3. Speaking of phone numbers, keep the US embassy numbers with you in a safe place. It will just make you feel good. 4. Comfortable shoes. Light bags. Capsule wardrobe. Especially if you will be on the go. 5. Watch for your luggage wheels and cobblestones or you might end up with a broken wheel clunking all over Europe. True story. I converted to backpacks. 6. Have the best time ever. I haven't done London, but France is like my home away from home.
    Reply
  30. Maralyn Woods February 27, 2016 at 12:01 am #
    The advice given earlier to wait until you get there to get your Euros and Pound notes is sound. You can get them from machines at the airport when you arrive with your credit or debit card. Do this immediately so you will have money to tip the baggage handlers and your taxi driver. Be sure to let your card companies know that you are going and the dates you will be there. I always do this online on the bank's websites. Take a large purse and a carry-on if allowed. My luggage was misplaced for TEN DAYS in Italy and I was at my third hotel before it caught up with me. Put your meds, make up and electronics in your purse or carry-on. I did not do this so had an excuse to buy all new clothes and make up in Italy. Boo-Hoo LOL. Eat the food and drink the wine like your life depends on it and take pics of all of it because it will be such a whirlwind you cannot possibly remember it all. Have a great time!
    Reply
    • Angel February 27, 2016 at 1:17 am #
      My suggestion is to get a money pouch to wear under your clothes and keep some cash and your passport in it. This way if for some slim chance someone takes your bag you're not shit out of luck. They sell them at travel stores and online.
      Reply
  31. Elisabeth February 27, 2016 at 4:09 am #
    Hi Bev! I'm one of your faithful readers...and -----I'm French. And------- I live in France. Not in Paris, by the way. Nevertheless I dare say: Welcome to Paris. Have a lot of fun and food. You'll have sore feet, for sure, but it's Worth while. I'll be reading every single word about your trip.
    Reply
  32. Abby February 27, 2016 at 5:45 pm #
    Hi Bev! The same poop/tub thing happened to my bro in law except he was more traumatized than my neice! Haha. To Europe: comfortable walking shoes, cord adapters, don't bring travelers cheques because it's not 1994, and bring less clothes than you think you need. Oh and a French phrase book might be handy if you don't know the language. Can't wait to see your snaps on that trip!
    Reply
    • Bev Weidner February 28, 2016 at 3:55 pm #
      "because it's not 1994." YOU KNOW MY BRAIN. :)
      Reply
  33. Kristen February 27, 2016 at 11:51 pm #
    Travel adapter is definitely a must! I went last year to Europe and had a really hard time finding a place that sold them. They're super cheap on Amazon. And pack light! You'll want to do lots of shopping there and if you spend a certain amount in a store (it's about 90euros) ask for a VAT form that way you can get some cash back at the airport!
    Reply
    • Kristen February 27, 2016 at 11:56 pm #
      Totally forgot in Paris you MUSt go to á la mère de famille and bring home chocolate. It's so good I wish I would've bought more since I literally ate my chocolate stash at the airport. And in London if you want to eat an amazing meal you have to go to The Ledbury. They even quenelle their butter!! Seriously one of the top places I've eaten at.
      Reply
  34. Emily @ Life on Food February 28, 2016 at 6:06 am #
    You will have an amazing time on your vacation! I studied aboard in Paris and it was one of the best times in my life. Eat your heart out and then walk, walk, walk!
    Reply
  35. Lesley February 29, 2016 at 8:11 am #
    You always have the best shoes, but it goes to say...do not bring big "fat" American trainers/NIke's/etc...shoes. Bring toms. flats. comfortable non Trainer shoes. Nothing says "Hi, I'm an American" like big marshmallow feet.
    Reply
  36. Brittany | Words Like Honeycomb February 29, 2016 at 2:15 pm #
    The true tragedy here is that we haven't gotten the bathtub snaps in far too long. Nat? Will? Mommy needs her bathtub snap time...
    Reply
  37. Grace February 29, 2016 at 4:02 pm #
    I travel for work and like to think I have the packing thing down...A few random things I always am happy to have packed, an umbrella, shampoo/conditioner, tweezers and wet wipes in your carry on! The airplane tray on the seat in front of you has more germs than an airplane bathroom...im sure you would appreciate them on a train as well.
    Reply
  38. Bathrooms UK March 1, 2016 at 9:32 am #
    Congratulations on the chance to travel with Eurostar and visit Paris, you will enjoy the city for sure! We like your writing style, you are really funny and… honest! On the bathtub problem – why not trying to come up with a fun game that involves a bathtub any time when it is a bath time? Maybe this would help?
    Reply
  39. christine March 1, 2016 at 1:36 pm #
    yay for travelling! You def need the Rick Steves guidebooks for all the best insider tips. Rick knows where it's at. Travel light, you'll be grateful you did!
    Reply
  40. Laurie March 2, 2016 at 11:04 am #
    You have GOT to have the fish soup with aioli in France!!! To die for!!
    Reply
  41. Allyson March 7, 2016 at 5:08 pm #
    I'm so jealous you're going to Europe! I traveled on the Eurostar between London and Paris when I went 6 years ago. This past year I traveled by car with friends literally across France to Brussels after being a bridesmaid in a friend's wedding on a beautiful little island on the coast of France. I used my debit card over there with no issues. I exchanged money at the airport before I caught the flight to Paris. Take comfy shoes, an umbrella, a light jacket, adapters. You can get wi-fi almost anywhere so you can use Skype to call home (it is much cheaper than trying to get a plan over there). I miss Europe and I'm insanely jealous of you but you will have a GREAT time!!!
    Reply
  42. Charlotte March 8, 2016 at 10:28 am #
    Hi Bev. I'm a long time time reader burfirst time poster. I live in London and hope you enjoy our city. Please don't worry about pickpockets or wearing a money belt etc As long as you are sensible you will be fine. I have never had a problem in the 17 years I have lived here. I agree with the above suggestion to bring comfy shoes and an umbrella, this winter has been very wet and you will be doing a lot of exploring on foot. You have probably got a whole list of things to do but if you have time do take a walk along the South Bank from Waterloo towards Tower Hill. It is really vibrant area and you get to see the Lndon Eye, St Pauls, stop into the Tate and most importantly Borough (food) Market - I love the place. The Tower is really interesting as is Westminster Abbey, particularly if you have a guide. There are loads of great places to eat and drink with my favourites being Roka and Hawksmoor and if you really want to treat yourself try afternoon tea at The Lanesborough or Pret a Portea at The Berkeley. Have a great time.
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