I can die a happy man. I have seen the Tour de France live. This is the Sunday of our trip to Paris last weekend. We arrived on the Champs-Elysees just after 10:30 in the morning to claim a spot on the barrier. Watching is free, just get there early to be able to see.
Here we are just after we arrive. Still happy and not too tired.

This is a view up the Champs-Elysees toward the Arc de Triomphe. This is an uphill section. The riders do a U turn just in front of the Arc and come down the hill on the other side of the red and white barriers. Note the cobblestone road surface. Not a real smooth surface for the riders. Keep that in mind as they go past at race speed.

One and half hours before the riders, a caravan of promotional vehicles came through. They are anything from a painted van to elaborate things. This is from the sponser of the Yellow Jersey (LCL). Normally they throw candy and goodies to the crown but not here because we were behind the barries.

Another strange vehicle in the caravan. How would you like to drive a tire across France?

So Meghan and Susie spend part of the time waiting by playing some cards. Remember we arrived at 10:30am. The riders arrived at 4:45pm so it was a long day.

See the post just below this on for pictures of the actual tour.
1 comment:
Dave,
What a thrill to see one of your life dreams come true!! Thank you so much for the Tour de France Journal Entry. I spent an afternoon in Paris, vicariously through the wonderful snap shots.
Meghan, that was the greatest picture. The speed of those bikers...I had no idea how fast they raced.
Susie, It was so thoughtful of Dave mentioning you and Meghan giving up a whole day, so he could see the Tour de France Race-a wonderful life dream fulfilled. I know you and Meghan well enough say you loved every minute all of you spent together as a family.
When I come to your blog, I always feel like I'm stepping out of my world into your temporary home. You all take great pictures and share all your new experiences in a real personal way.
Thank you for sharing so much of your time in France with all of us. Just your activities of every day living; i.e.: the curling iron, learning the French language, the challenge of getting your hair cut, Meghan's camp experience with "fizz"-Soda instead of H2O and the arrival of your peanut butter!!!
I would never have imagined the joy I'm experiencing through your daily adventures. I can't wait to hear about all of you spending this weekend bicycle touring together as a family.
I miss you all, but I truly excitedly anticipate reading your next entry and seeing your great photos.
Joyfully Trusting Jesus,
MJ
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