Paris & Flea Market Treasures

There is a French flag waving ever-so gently in the breeze. The traffic is passing at a little slower pace this evening, as it is Saturday. The sidewalk cafes are nearly full. The trees are just starting to show a touch of fall color. The warm day is turning cool as the sun begins to conclude it's days work. There is a French military band playing just up the way and from here their music is soft and charming. There is a young couple sitting on a bench gazing sweetly into each others eyes, young lovers so in love. 

This is Paris in the early fall. I am writing this evening from my hotel balcony overlooking this tiny piece of Paris... tonight it is my piece of Paris. I want to take it all in, not take one moment for granted. I want to enjoy the magical place that is Paris.

Today's was a very productive day. We started just as the sun rose, off to the annual Rue Cler Brocante street faire. It was an interesting sale of everything from very fine antiques to mid-century furniture and everything in between. 

We shopped in phases today as we wanted to get another batch of shipping boxes out before the post closed at 1:00pm. So we shopped, had our espresso and croissant then shopped some more before we rushed back to pack. With our shipping complete we went back to the brocante faire and continued our treasure hunting. 

Relegated to what will fit into our large extra suitcase our shopping now had a twist... small and flat.

Don't get me wrong, it wasn't hard to do. There was so much to choose from.

I did find myself shopping like I was at home but reality would rear it's ugly head 

and scream to me... small and flat!

We spent most of the day wandering through the streets, having wonderful conversations with vendors and shoppers alike. Everyone was kind and helpful and happy.

I took two very quick loot shoot photos to show you some of today's treasures. 

The antique enamel clock face from Honfleur is one of my favorites. The two brass pieces are trench art dating from the WWII era. They are shell casings that have been hand chased with oak leaves and acorns... beautiful and truly unique. The ring on the side of the chair is an English silver hotel ice bucket holder and the Limoges plates feature different hunt scenes on them. I know these photos make it difficult to see the details as the sun was very bright. 

I promise to take more photos once I get home.

From the small and flat collection... the amazing linen bunting from the garden tent of a chateau in Brittany. French children's school work books from the 1930's. Antique French postcards and photo albums. A pastoral print, children's books and other fun treasures. I am sorry my photo is not the best as I am taking all my pictures with my iphone (my big camera will not take a charge any longer... it has been over-worked this trip). More treasure hunting tomorrow.

I hope you enjoy and happy treasure hunting!