Having visited Monet's House and Garden for the third time in 17 years, I came away with several thoughts.  First, it would have been so much more impressive to have visited his home and garden about 100 years ago when it would have been a work in progress.  Now, it appears to be more of a progression of work by the Monet Foundation to add and embellish what was once a simple and elegant place in the country.

I noticed that a lot of furniture has been replaced since I first saw the house interior.  I'm sure there are reasons for this, however, some pretty gaudy furniture has been installed in his "studio."  The "kitchen" seems to have been painted a dull yellow not at all like what I remember of a bright and fun country yellow.

Also, I was surprised at how the "garden" has grown, or should I say overgrown!!!  The plantings are lovely but overly done and one cannot even walk through the garden anymore.  I feel lucky to have had that experience once upon a time!!!

Arrived in Paris is a most unusual way:  I drove my rental car all the way into the City Centre.  I managed to find Gare du Nord but had to drive around and around trying to find the car rental place which I eventually succeeded in doing.  Have been staying in a comfortable loft near the Louvre.  Walked to the Musee d'Orsay today to visit this exeptional collection of artwork.  Spent all my time in the Impressionist section.

Picked up a book entitled "Le Grand Guide de la Normandie - Sur les pas des impressionnistes" written by Helene Rochette with assistance of Claire Maingon, historian and Pascal Paillardet, photographer.  Surprisingly able to read about 70 % of the French and will have to re-read this later when I get home to my computer with the French interpretation application.

Au revoir.

Mimi