Today I decided to take pictures on my way to work in order to share my daily commute with you! I am awakened every day at 6.45 to the wonderful “swing piano” ringtone of my mobile (also set a back-up “Global Atomic Radio Controlled” clock – I know, sounds incredibly official, yet not the most reliable as it always seems to change time zones in order to keep me on my toes). I make breakfast, put on glitter, throw in some crunches/push-ups to get those endorphins started, bid my
On my way to the Metro, I pass a variety of boutiques, cafes, patisseries, butcher shop, flower shops, wine and cheese shops, small hotels, bookstores… I always greet the butchers with a big “Sarah Smile” as they wave and we exchange ‘bonjours.’ (Although I must admit, I am usually running down the street, temporary slow to a brisk walk past the butchers in order to say hi, then return back to the spazed-running pace). After descending the stairs into the Convention Metro, I swipe my “Navgo” pass at the card swipes and walk through the turn-still to gain entrance into the underground transportation. I usually jump on the second car and read/listen to my ipod during the fifteen minute ride to Concorde. I love the Concorde Metro station because the walls are adorned with the French constitution (Déclaration des Droits de l'Homme et du citoyen). Since spacing between the words is not present, it is a challenge to understand the phrases; however, it is a pleasant surprise when I can decipher the articles of the constitution. 
After stepping off the Metro, I bound up three flights of stairs (bypassing the escalator), pass through a set of doors, climb another series of stairs and emerge onto Place de la Concorde… one of the most beautiful sights that I have ever encountered – rain or shine. Initially I crossed the rue de Rivoli, then waited at a red light in order to cross the street again; however, I have become wise in the ways of the street traffic. After the little ‘green means go man’ appears on the street light, I have a few seconds to scamper diagonally into the middle of the street, do a little dance and curtsey before the oncoming traffic cruises through the Parisian streets (ok, omit dance and curtsey, but I do make a mad-dash). As I pass Place de la Concorde, I see all of Paris in a nut-shell: The Champs Elysées, Eiffel Tower, Invalides, Madeline, Jardin de Tuileries, Assemblée Nationale, Grand Palace, Pont Alexandre III, La Seine, Place de la Concorde – all good things… great things indeed. As I walk past the grand entrance of Hotel de Crillon, the doormen take off their hats and nod as I smile and wave – it truly warms my heart to acknowledge my fellow employees. Because the American Embassy is located next to the Hotel de Crillon, Parisian military guards line the streets. I always greet the guards as I continue my way down the street between the American Embassy and Crillon. Upon entering the service entrance, I greet the security and hop down the flight of stairs into the basement. 
Upon arrival, I exchange my dirty uniform from the previous day for a crisp new outfit. Adorned in pristine white, a new day begins at Crillon! Whenever I pass anyone in the hall, I always greet them with a big smile, no matter if I am completely exhausted or in a rush – I respect every single employee at the hotel because they truly take pride in their work. I cannot help but smile whenever someone shouts, “I love America!” “U-S-A” or sings “American Woman” or comments about anything relating to the States. It is comforting to hear such positive comments about home from everyone!
The past six months have been by far the most challenging of my entire life – and I have adored the entire experience. I am so thankful that I have had the opportunity to work in Michelin starred restaurants… and not simply peeling potatoes in the corner – but actually preparing food which is served to clients. The most frustrating aspect is the ‘slang’ communication – I am able to understand everything related to the culinary aspects and have no problem whenever Chef asks me to do something; but the day-to-day “slang” and the cultural references related to jokes are the most difficult to understand. However, I still smile, work diligently and push myself to learn something new each and every single day! I love the experience!
Two weeks... only two weeks remain in this City of Light! I know that Paris will always have a special place in my heart, and I am confident that I will return one day. In the meantime... I have been sending my CV and resume to Chefs across America. I am open to move anywhere and work anytime. Who knows… Arizona, Ohio, New York, California, Chicago, Washington DC, West Virginia, Las Vegas... although I will miss Paris, I will go where I am led and I will go joyfully. My parents have taught me that I can make the best of any situation by maintaining a positive attitude and always thinking about others. During the month of October I plan on volunteering for the presidential campaign, volunteering at local food banks and visiting Stephen and Susan in DC and Michael in Arizona. To quote my gymnastics quote from a previous interview, "What’s she going to do next..."
All my love from Paris,SB =)
