Holy smokes, spring has arrived and it seems that everyone has gotten the memo.  The weather is warmer (58 degrees feels warm to all of us at this point).  Bright green leaves are unraveling on the trees, the daffodils are dying off making way for tulips, kelly green stems jutting out from the dirt with huge pom poms balls on top, they will be opening any day now. 

The sun is revealing it's lovely face more often and the tourists have arrived.  The cafes are jam packed with travelers enjoying this beautiful city, couples are walking arm in arm, families are pushing strollers with one hand and holding guide books with the other, neighbors are filling their flower boxes with pansies and herbs, I hear the quick scraping of brooms sweeping balconies, outdoor activity seems louder inside our apartment.   There are more flea markets, gourmet markets, book markets then before. 

The French seem happier, the men are enjoying the women without their layers of sweater, scarfs and heavy coats.  Skin, glorious skin is exposed.   

Blankets are sprawled on the park lawns, everyone enjoying their piece of Paris.

Gone are the empty outdoor tables and chairs...........

Now, you will need to move fast to get an outdoor table on a sunny day......

Paris looks and feels like a different city than it did just weeks ago.