Roses & Guns

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Trip Start May 18, 2012 Previous
Entry Trip End Jun 03, 2012 Next
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  Paris, France
Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Today we went first to the Rodin Museum.  Wow!  What a delight!  Many of the sculptures are outdoors, in beautifully manicured gardens filled with masses of roses and shaded with Linden Trees.  It was pleasantly cool with a light breeze, sunshine and the aroma of roses everywhere.  We strolled the grounds and throroughly enjoyed looking at Rodin's sculptures.  It is interesting that his sculptures, many of which appear to be so tortured, are placed in such peaceful, beautiful surroundings.  When I get home, I'll have to read about Rodin.  His sculptures are intruiging.  Elisabeth really wanted to sketch a statue, so Leah, George and I took a rest in the shade and enjoyed a drink while she drew. One of the things I learned is that The Thinker, which is generally known as a large sculpture was originally a small sculpture--no more than 3 feet high. 

Next we went to Les Invalides, which was origanally a large hospital built by Napolean for injured soldiers.  A couple of wings of this very large complex of buildings are still utilized as a veteran's hospital.  When we entered one of the courtyards on our way to the medeival weapons portion of the museaum, we discovered that we had happened upon some big event.  While we still don't know exactly what the nature of the event was, we watched it for a bit and saw groups from all of the branches of the French military march in a long line of dignitaries,lots of flags and the military band played.  I couldn't help but wonder how many such events have taken place on the very same sight since the days of Napolean.  The sense of history is everywhere. 

Leah and Elisabeth wanted to visit the medieval weapons portion of the museum.  There are coats of armour of every size and description.  Some are simple, some ornate and a couple were downright amusing. One very ornate head piece was worn by Henry II.  There was a sword that belonged to Francois I. 

There was a light shower this evening which has cooled things nicely.  I think tomorrow is supposed to be cooler, which will be nice. 

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The Thinker	The Kiss	Gardens at Rodin's Museum	Can't remember the title of this either.
Roses everywhere in full bloom.	Horse & knight in full armour.	Military parade	Coat of armour.
ancient weaponry	Sword of Francois I	Old guns.

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