Some Paris updates

Okay, to lighten things up...Paris has a small army of green street-cleaning trucks. They are working around the clock, their high-pressure hoses blasting trash, cigarette butts and, of course, dog poop into the gutters. The men running these machines dress in all green and use their green plastic-bristled brooms to sweep everything into the gutters. You'll find old rolls of carpet in the gutters, as they use these to strategically direct the trash-filled water away from one drain and into another. They don't bother picking them up since the very next day or so, they're at it again.

Also, yes it's true that Paris is joining so many other major cities around the world with smoking bans. I really never thought it would happen here. Sipping tiny cups of espresso while diving into philosophical conversation with a cigarette in hand is just so French! But almost a month ago now, Paris has banned all smoking in public buildings and spaces. I'm not sure how it's going, but the even bigger test will hit Parisians on Jan. 1st 2008 when all bars, cafés, restaurants and clubs will be smoke-free.

And just as a side note, I read a movie review yesterday on a film coming out called "Avenue Montaigne." I actually don't know if it's a French or American film, as it's in French with subtitles, with French actors and actresses, but it hasn't released here yet. That makes me think it's American. But what really makes me think it's American was the disclaimer at the end of the movie review: “Avenue Montaigne” is rated PG-13 (Parents strongly cautioned). The film features some characteristically French and French film behavior, including drinking, smoking and trysting. Only until Jan. 1st 2008!