This lockdown is definitely different from the first. In a lot of ways it seems easier and more familiar – both the surroundings and routine. Tomorrow we’ll be changing it up a bit and going back to Paris which might mean a completely different story. But for now let’s recap Confinement 2.0 week two.
Neuilly-sur-Seine
I’ve really enjoyed being in Neuilly. It’s almost like blending being in Normandy with Paris. There are still all of the normal “comforts” of Paris, but there’s the ability to be outside and get fresh air and explore the Bois de Boulogne. Every day I look forward to Dalton’s first walk because he’s especially happy and animated in the morning. The fall colors continue to be gorgeous, although now the leaves really are starting to fall.
A lot of people are out and about walking, running, and biking especially in the Bois de Boulogne. I don’t blame them, because it’s allowed, and I do the same thing. Part of me does wonder if at some point the government will say ‘enough’ and close parks and gardens again. I hope not.
It’s nice having a big Monoprix within walking distance instead of having to get in the car and drive to the store like we did in the first lockdown. Which is kind of ironic, because I really looked forward to our weekly Saturday morning E.Leclerc runs in Normandy. We’ve definitely had more takeaway and delivery meals than we did the first time, but again I think it’s a convenience factor.
Confinement Cooking
Even though we’ve taken advantage of the restaurants open for delivery and takeaway, we’ve still cooked the majority of our meals at home. Highlights from the past week include:
- Pasta with scallops
- Cyril Lignac’s stuffed eggplant (you can see the recipe here)
- Turbot with Romain’s special lemon/butter/cream sauce and brussels sprouts
- Oysters Rockefeller
- Risotto aux Girolles
- Pizzas for a “pizza party”
- Pumpkin ricotta ravioli
- Galettes
We definitely haven’t been going hungry.
Cooking during confinement continues to be important for me because it’s a great distraction and way to pass the time. I’m continually amazed by how how simple most things are to make. Although it’s definitely easier with a normal sized kitchen compared to what I have in Paris.
The Paris Walk
The highlight of Confinement 2.0 week two was my Paris walk on Monday. I had some La Porte Bonheur items to ship out, so I fully took advantage of my ability to go farther than 1km from home.
It was a perfectly gorgeous day with clear blue skies and temperatures in the mid-60s. Certainly an unexpected surprise for November in Paris. Originally I wasn’t planning on walking so much, but the light was so wonderful that I wanted to soak up as much of it as possible. I walked until the Pont de l’Alma where I had the most breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower and Seine at sunset. I know it’s a cliché but I couldn’t stop pinching myself.
Overall confinement 2.0 week two was a pretty great week. We’ll see what changes the next week brings!