Oh, Frank is gone and I didn’t wake up. But it’s only 8:00 and my favorite coffee shop on Rue de Grenelle opens at 8:30. I pack my computer and head over there, arrive at opening. There is already a queue. I find a cozy seat and I am grateful for this final morning in Paris. Another clear sky and hot day. Soon enough Frank joins me after his tennis and we walk back to our flat together, planning our final day. Some work; I help him with this project. Then a stroll up to Rue Cler for a casual lunch at an outdoor cafe. We are relaxed and appreciative of all the quality time we have had together. Frank agrees to walk with me to the Luxembourg Gardens. It’s about a half hour in traffic and heat, and by the time we arrive we are too tired to walk around, so we sit on the ubiquitous green chairs in the shade. We are quiet and I take a catnap. It’s time to walk back! We have packing up to do and a special dinner with Frank’s work colleagues and our friends. It’s the most fun night I’ve had on the trip. Our dear friends and another couple I’ve not met, also business associates. Our conversation is lively and fun and it’s a sweet evening of our time to say goodbye. We wake to depart early. The windows are open, the streets are a little bit quiet tonight. A breeze blows in. It is after midnight here––already our day of departure!

Trees are such amazing friends. I will miss the ones I made in Paris.