France stories 3

After spending some time with Sasha's family in Frankfurt, and friends in Paris, we rented a car and headed down to Limoges so Sasha could access a document she needed for her PhD. Getting out of Paris (or more accurately, out of its suburbs) was much more challenging that you might expect. We rented the car at the airport, and the idea was that we would take the highway all the way down, going around Paris entirely. It was a nice idea.

To begin with, the highways in France aren't always that well marked. The road name is printed at the top of the signs, in relatively small print, and at first we didn't quite have the knack of spotting the road names, so we missed a turn or two. Even after we worked that out, rather than say for example, 'A10 North', it would say 'A10 to Lille'. So then you break out the map, figure out whether Lille is North or South, and act accordingly. Another error was made in this way. So it took us about an hour longer than expected to get out of Paris. After that, though, it was smooth sailing down to the hills of Limousine.

I like the way you put that: "A document Sasha needed for her PhD" - I'm planning on compiling a list of things I need for MY PhD (which makes it sound like a demanding pet). Included will be: copious amounts of cash, fresh flowers daily, a private island, and a band following me around to constantly compose my 'theme music.' My PhD will only be satisfied with the best.

Oh, come on, Heidi! You aren't thinking big enough!! A private jet, to get to your private island. An apartment (or house, who am I kidding) everywhere your PhD might want to go. Champagne every day. Chocolate truffles imported from Switzerland directly to your home. And, oh, yes, the most important thing: a ghost writer...

Your PhD sounds a lot like a professional wrestler. Perhaps your PhD also needs a light show?

Oh wow, to think I never pursued my doctorate... oh, and David, I hope you recover soon from WrestleMania, clearly there are residuals of the trauma you endured.