As I may have mentioned, I am off to Paris for a little more than a week, thanks to the generosity of the Ludwig Vogelstein Foundation, which awarded me a grant that will cover my basic expenses for me to finish researching my novel.

MaryAnn Johanson is accompanying me on her own dime (or centime), taking time out from her very busy reviewing and writing and copyediting schedule.

Whenever I have managed a trip to an exotic locale (which hasn't been possible for several years) I try to get a jump on the holiday and birthday shopping by picking up unusual items. Unfortunately, the dollar/euro situation has turned against me in the short period of time since we booked the trip, so it is unlikely I'll be returning with much in the line of gifts or souveniers. But with my new camera in tow, I'll have hundreds of pictures!

MaryAnn may be doing a bit of blogging from the City of Lights, but I most likely will not. I will be taking lots of notes for my novel in progress and will report back to you all at the end of April.

Thank you so very, very much to all of you who have been so encouraging, supportive and enthusiastic about *my* trip. You're a wonderful bunch. I particularly want to mention my Auntie May, my Parents, The Devney Clan (particularly Michael for the maps and Bob for the key phrases to use), Anne Marie, Miriam, Jorge, my sister Kirsty and my cousin John, Roberta, and my cousins Lori, PJ and Gail, and my friend Brian P. Moran.

a bientôt!

Love,

Bonnie