We were Parisians today; languishing in the morning bustle of the hotel pre-checkout with a buffet breakfast of omelettes, croissants and café.
When we did check out we headed straight for the Metro and over to the Tuileries for a stroll.
It struck me as odd that there were people seated around the central fountain just staring in; watching ducks skim the green water. We Americans usually stand a bit, toss a coin and move on.
The standing must happen on the bridges over the Seine where lovers snap on locks and toss the key overboard. Judging from the number of passersby compared to the number of locks on the metal grates, I seriously doubt they leave those locks up “forever” anymore. Part of the Pont de Arts bridge near the Louvre Museum actually collapsed last year. Reports say something like 700,000 locks were placed along the Seine bridges last summer.
The trend started around 2007 in Rome when a couple mimicked a practice they read in a book called I Want You by Federico Moccia. When Italy banned the locks, tourists scooted over to Paris and the Seine. Locals apparently think it’s graffiti at its worst and have been protesting to get them removed before it does some serious damage.
Needless to say, Ryan and I skipped the locks. We also skipped the famous Louvre. We ignored the HUGE line, crossed the Bridge to the Musee d’Orsay for a quick tour. Like a cathedral, this museum’s structure is really the centerpiece. It’s hard to believe it was a railway station in the late 1800s and later housing for released prisoners during WWII but was rescued from the demolition block in 1978 and turned into a museum.
The amount of original impressionist and neo-impressionist paintings and sculptures is mesmerizing.
Oh, gee, look at the time! We hustled back to the hotel to meet Mom and Dad for our 30 minute drive to Disneyland Paris.
As we pulled into the reception for the Marriott’s Village d’lle-de-France our driver chuckled. It had the façade of a little French village. Our “cottage” was in Giverny. The place is actually great. Like any solid Marriott timeshare, it is a full-townhouse with kitchen, washer/dryer, two bathrooms and two bedrooms, a kids club, pool, market and surprisingly decent restaurant. We chilled some more. Tomorrow, it’s an early start for Disneyland Park, aka Euro Disney.
Whether you’re a ‘ribman’ or just into large heaping plates of smoked meats, Bandits on Park City’s Main Street will satisfy any hearty appetite. And now there are two!
Debuting this winter was Bandits American Grill in Cottonwood Heights at 3176 East 6200 South. But let’s call the Bandits near Big Cottonwood Canyon Park City’s more sophisticated sister. Instead of crammed into an historic building, this Bandits has plenty of elbow room; enough for a separate bar area divided by a double-sided fireplace. The restaurant is still family friendly with heaping plates of pork baby backs, wood-fired tri-tip sirloin, and spicy jerk chicken breasts.
They all come double sized with your choice of two sides- like the hulking baked potato, coleslaw or corn on the cob. You’ll be entering a hungry-man’s hall of fame if you can finish what’s on your plate.
If you’re not much of a barbecue eater there are tasty salads like the quinoa harvest with kale, pecans, apples, cranberries, goat cheese, citrus vinaigrette or the tri-tip steak salad. They also have burgers, veggie sandwiches and seafood.
Bandits American Grill is also a stellar spot for drinks and dessert like cheesecake and mud pie. But just so you know, if you’re dropping in for hot apps only, you might be sad over the selections and portion sizes.
The menu is a bit pricey for barbecue so just think of it as a restaurant from Park City and you’ll begin to see value. If you do want less expensive, traditional pub food, there’s always my favorite post-climbing/skiing spot- The Porcupine Pub – but it’s nice to see there are other options in the neighborhood.
It’s a good thing a picture’s worth a thousand words because I can barely type tonight. My computer says 3:45 p.m. but it’s more like 1 a.m. in Paris, France.
We left Salt Lake at 5 p.m. on May 5 for a 10-hour, uneventful, direct flight to Paris. No one smelled bad, the food was decent, I had one cocktail and there were soooo many great things to watch on the behind-the-seat TV.
The only issue was that I flew coach and felt like a moth in a hard-shell cocoon. None of us got any sleep. Everything aches now and I’m desperate for zzzzzs. So here are my “words” from our first (short) day in the City of Lights.
Sage came home the other day DEMANDING that we change out all of our lightbulbs. Never try to argue with a third grader after they just had an assembly on saving energy. I had my excuses- we just replaced most of our bulbs; just turn off the lights when you leave a room; those energy efficient LEDs you want are ridiculously expensive.
Now I can’t put my money where my mouth is. Rocky Mountain Power is making it difficult to say, “No.” For a limited time, pick up LED three-pack bulbs at Home Depot for $5. No more excuses not to make the switch to long-lasting bulbs. But we only have until May 17.
Qualified LEDs may last as long as 25 brilliant years and use 75 percent less energy than traditional bulbs. That means fewer trips to the store and less time climbing the ladder to switch them out. Plus, the savings help lower your energy costs.
This special offer from Rocky Mountain Power is limited to eight, $5 LED three-packs per purchase, per customer. The transition to super-efficient LEDs is cheaper than a meal from McD’s and will generate years of savings. The positive impact doesn’t end with your wallet either. According to ENERGY STAR, if every home in America replaced even a single bulb, it would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equal to taking more than 800,000 cars off the road.
Ah, the summer. The green, the trails, the sun, the dogs, the kids screaming for attention. School’s out which means you’re in. But cut yourself a bit of slack and enroll Junior in one of the many Utah summer camps happening throughout the state. Don’t feel guilty. You were never meant to play at a fourth grade level 24/7.
The list below is by no means all-inclusive so if you know of a camp, feel free to add it in the comments section!
Youtheater Summer Programs
Egyptian YouTheatre Summer Camp is where children learn confidence and collaboration, while they expand their innate creativity through theatre arts in fun-filled days. Camps are offered to various age groups and interests (Drama or Musical), with exciting camp electives each day such as stage combat, improve, stage make-up, puppetry, Shakespeare, acting for film, and so many more. This summer, YouTheatre offers single week as well as more extensive multi-week camps. All camps end with a production on the Egyptian Theatre stage in Park City. More information and Registration can be found at http://www.egyptiantheatrecompany.org/Youtheatre/
Camp Invention
The Camp Invention program at Weilenmann School of Discover and Parley’s Park Elementary in Park City is a week-long adventure in creativity that immerses children entering grades one through six in exciting, hands-on learning disguised as fun summer activities. Led by local educators, boys and girls are challenged to explore connections between science, technology, engineering, and innovation. Participants might spend their time creating and “selling” items in a virtual world that will benefit their avatars’ lives to learn about economics in the real world; or deconstruct gears and guts and upcycle them into exciting new innovations, then learn how to market them to peers. Or design design life-saving devices, marine exploration vehicles or rocket ships. Early and alumni registration discounts are available. Spaces are limited. For more information, call 800.968.4332 or visit www.campinvention.org.
YMCA Camp Roger
Camping at the Y is a fun and unique experience that gives children and teens the opportunity to discover their full potential, meet new friends, play and create memories that last a lifetime. Through camping children and teens explore nature, become a community and develop confidence, independence, leadership and social skills. Archery, arts & crafts, hiking, Team building, mountain biking, orienteering, swimming, horseback riding & more. There’s even a family camp in July if you just can’t bare the separation. Camp Roger’s first session begins June 7. Register online at www.ymcacamproger.org or call 801-839-3384.
Park City Coop Preschool Camp
Even tiny tots get camp. For four days each week, the wee 3-5 year olds can explore a unique theme that encourages learning, creativity, adventure and fun. Camps are from 9:00 – 12:45 Monday through Thursday. All camps are open to the general public. www.parkcitycoop.com.
Park City Ice Arena Skate Camps
Who says you have to hang up the skates in the summer? PC Ice Hockey is hosting two new summer programs that won’t break the bank. Summer Ice 2015 includes 11 skills and drill sessions, 5 drop-in sessions, 6 power skating sessions and 12 off-ice training sessions for a total of 34 sessions for just $200. Don’t worry about missing sessions. Even if you make 1/2 of the sessions, it is still tons of skating. The Girls Summer Ice 2015 is a new all-girls program that includes 8 hockey ice sessions and 6 power skating sessions for $140. Go to www.pciceminers.org and click on Register on-line to sign up now. Hurry. The Summer Ice 2015 session is limited to the first 80 players and it sold out last year.
Pre-Competitive Figure Skating Camp: Ages 5 & up. Must have passed Basic 5 or Blizzard. July 28 – Aug. 1, 8:30am-2:45 pm Competitive Figure Skating Camp: Ages 8 & up. Must have passed pre-preliminary Free Skate & be working on an axel.
Park City Dance Academy Junior Dance Camps for 7-18 yo: $140.00, Monday-Thursday 12:30 p.m.- 3:30 p.m., July 6-9 & August 3-6 Princess Camp for 3-6 yo July 6-9 & August 3-6 Ballet Intensive, Intermediate and Advanced dancers, age 9-18. http://www.parkcitydance.com
Kimball Art Center Classes
Create Your Vacation at the Kimball Art Center this summer. All day summer art camps are available for 6-10 years olds. Available Monday – Thursday, June 8 – August 13, 2015. Dozens of classes are available for tots (3-5), kids (5 – 10), tweens & teens (11 – 17), families (all ages) and adults. Whether you want to learn how to paint, sculpt, draw, photograph, mosaic or make ceramics, there is a class for everyone. 435.649.8882 or www.kimballartcenter.org.
Dance Tech Studios
Dance Tech Studios, Park City’s premiere dance program and facility, is offering summer dance camps/intensives for girls and boys, ages 3-18. Whether your child’s interests lie in “Princess Dance Camp” (ages 3-6) camps where girls explore ballet, jazz, tap and creative movement, or in the exclusive and highly demanded “Boys Xtreme” hip hop/breakdance camps incorporating all the latest “tricks” taught by the finest hip hop/breakdance guys. Little man camps are for “guys only” ages 5-14 (age groups are separated). If your child is interested in trying all forms of dance and a truly unique experience, the “Dance Intensive” program is for dancers 5-18. Dancers will receive professional training (beg-adv placement levels) in Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, turns/leaps, flexibility, yoga/Pilates for dancers, Cardio conditioning, choreography and much more. Camps are held Mon-Thur. Pre-Registration is required for all camps and is limited. www.dancetechworld.com or 435.655.9213.
Creekside Kids Academy
Park City/Heber: Two locations to accommodate any child, ages 6 weeks-12 years. All three locations provide bussing to/from summer programs if needed. Bussing space is limited. Summer Camp Weekly Themes Include: Camping, Dinosaurs, Under the Sea, Science, Kids in the Kitchen, Sports, Critters & Creatures ….and more. Half-day or full-day options, Daily, Weekly, Monthly enrollment. Hiking, Biking/Triking, Yoga, Regularly scheduled field trips to: Hogle zoo, Utah Olympic park, Wheeler Historic Farm, Museum of Ancient Life, Community Gardens, State Parks, Creamery etc. www.creeksidekids.net or (435) 655-0195.
Summer Camps at Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter
Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter provides a wide range of summer camp opportunities for youth in K-8. Camp topics include outdoor exploration, environmental education, science, robotics, art, and stewardship. In addition to campers, teens in grades 9-12 can apply to be teen camp counselors and help camp staff lead camp activities and keep campers safe. www.swanerecocenter.org or 435-252-3576.
Deer Valley Adventure Camp
June 8 through August 19 (closed July 3 & 24) for children two months to 12 years of age, offers creative and challenging activities and interests to ensure campers have fun while learning. Summer Adventure Camp is located in Snow Park Lodge at the base of Deer Valley Resort. Counselor ratios are one to three for infants, one to four for toddlers and one to eight for older children. Exciting field trips are planned weekly to explore a variety of recreational resources in the area. Hiking, mountain biking, basic biking skills*, swimming, rollerblading, scavenger hunts, wet and wild water games, volunteer projects and creative arts and crafts are all part of this fun and educational program. www.deervalley.com or 435-645-6648.
Up With Kids
The Up With Kids children’s theatre award-winning curriculum is always “G-Rated” and family friendly. They do produce plays only a parent will love but it’s not about you it’s about the kids and they make sure everyone has a part. It’s all for fun rather than talent training. The full-day camp is packed with kids of all ages and in Park City they use the Ecker Hill pool in Park City for afternoon swims. The kids are divided into peer groups during the day so your little ones aren’t trampled during rehearsal. Director: Lacey Scott, 801-884-6555, http://upwithkids.com/summer-camps/
PC Marc (Park City Racquet Club) Summer Camps
Full-day adventure camps, skate camps, tennis, swim lessons and more. Please visit http://www.parkcity.org for more details.
Basin Recreation Summer Blast Camps
Basin Recreation offers a variety of camps for the athlete, the outdoor adventurer, the dancer, and the youth ages 3-14 who just want to have a ton of fun during their day: basketball, soccer, tennis, mountain biking, swimming, water camps and more. Camps begin and end at Ecker Hill Middle School (bus turnaround or gym), Trailside Park(upper or lower field or tennis court) or specific Trailhead as indicated. http://www.basinrecreation.org/summer_camps.html
Rowland Hall Summer Camps
Rowland Hall SummerWorks provides an active and engaging day camp experience from June 8- August 14 for Rowland Hall students and students from across the Salt Lake area. Campers between the ages of 4 and 15 will find a range of activities and options that allow them to design a summer around their specific interests and imaginations. Our week-long sessions and half- and full-day options makes SummerWorks an accessible and convenient option for parents looking to build a fun and flexible summer schedule. http://www.rowlandhallsummer.org/
Kids Tri Camps
Offering two, multi-sport triathlon camps for kids, ages 5-12 years old, June 22-26 & August 3-7, designed to introduce multi-sports training in a positive and fun environment. All athletes will receive training in swimming, biking and running and how to transition between events. www.trikids123.com.
Red Butte Garden
Learn something new, make good friends, be inspired and have fun. These weeklong, half-day and full-day camps for K- 6th grade combine the excitement of the natural world with science experiments, art projects, Garden exploration and the simple joy of the outdoors. Camp registration is required. (801) 581-8454 or http://www.redbuttegarden.org/summer_camp
Hogle Zoo
Come spend a week at the zoo. Camps offer a fun educational way to spend your summer. They include special animal encounters, crafts, and other activities. K through 7th grade. http://www.hoglezoo.org/education_programs/zoo_classes#Camps
Tracy Aviary
Join Tracy Aviary for an Avian Adventure during the half-day or full-day week-long summer camps for children going into Kindergarten through 5th grade. Each camp has a different theme, but all are packed with bird-related crafts, projects and games. Campers will also spend their time learning about and experiencing nose-to-beak encounters with Tracy Aviary’s feathered friends during flighted bird shows, keeper talks and special bird feedings and an intimate experience each day with one or more of our famous Bird Show avian ambassadors. http://www.tracyaviary.org/camps/
Ballet West
The Ballet West Academy offers a fun, stimulating dance experience designed to increase the strength and technical abilities of both male and female dancers between the ages of 3-26.
The six-week intensive session June 22 – Aug. 1 is held at the University of Utah’s Alice Sheets Marriott Center for Dance. There are also a series of Fantasy Camps at Trolley Square for 4-5 year olds. The different themed weeks will enhance your child’s art, dance, and learning experience with a special in-studio performance held on the last day. Students will incorporate ballet-based movements and imaginative art work to explore the world of princesses and fairies. https://www.balletwest.org/academy/summer-programs
Thanksgiving Point Camps
Thanksgiving Point has a broad variety of unique summer day camps. With exciting themes such as Design, Robotics, Space, Gardening, Dinosaurs, Music, Legos, and more for K- 12, if you can’t find what you’re child wants to do here, then it probably doesn’t exist. http://www.thanksgivingpoint.org/daycamps
Utah Olympic Park The 5-day Freestyle Summer Camp for ages 7-18 years old is like no other in the state. Go big with FLY Freestyle for fun-filled days of freestyle and freeride water ramping into the Big Air Pool and bouncing on the trampolines. Utah Olympic Park’s coaching staff are made up of top-level freestyle and freeride skiers. Participants will master new tricks, catch air and have a great water ramp experience. Camps are designed to help athletes of all abilities become more confident in the air and on their skis in the water so they’re ready when the snow flies. The Fundamentals Camp introduces kids to multiple sport experiences and reinforces physical education, agility, balance and coordination.
Depending on the week, kids get to try baseball, tennis, swimming, karate, team handball, golf, skating and curling in addition to gymnastics two times per week and an opportunity to do freestyle into the Big Air pool at the Utah Olympic Park. Alpine ski equipment, helmet and skate board equipment recommended but not required. There are also individual, half-day intros June 1-Spet. 27 to freestyle if you only want a taste. http://utaholympiclegacy.org/park-activities/
JCC of Salt Lake Summer Camps Kids don’t have to be Jewish to experience this well-organized, exciting and social summer camp program. Camp K’Ton Ton for 2-5 year olds and Bernie Camp for grades 1-10 focus on friendship building and creating social and life skills while making the most of up to nine weeks of summer. Pick your weeks. Older kids are full day, every day; the younger ones can be full or half day, three or five days a week. All sessions include swim lessons in the immaculate JCC outdoor pool. http://www.slcjcc.org/youth-a-teen/summer-camps
Wasatch Kids Camps
Wasatch Kids offers day camp summer field trips throughout the Salt Lake valley for kids ages 5-16. Kids will hike, swim, tour the Spaghetti Factory and Humane Society, climb and splash at Cowabunga, and tons more fun. http://www.wasatchkidscamps.com/
Natural History Museum of Utah
Adventures in the Natural World NHMU Summer Camp brings science and nature based camp experiences to your kids, K-8th. The week-long half-day or full-day camps take full advantage of the Museum’s exhibits, outdoor spaces, and the natural environment of the foothills. https://online.nhmu.utah.edu/summer-camp-2015/sc15-camp-landing-page.
Momentum Climbing Camps
Three locations for kids 4-16 to scramble- Lehi, Sandy and Millcreek. From 8:45 a.m.- 1 p.m. kids play games, boulder, swing from ropes, and of course climb. https://www.momentumclimbing.com/summercamp/
Club U Summer Camps
Feel like a college kid when you take a camp on the University of Utah campus. Technology, nature, adventure, theater arts, space and music are just some of the well-thought out programs for kids 5-17, June 8- Aug. 24. https://continue.utah.edu/clubu/clubu_classes
Summer Performing Arts Day Camp Classes
Hale Centre Theatre offers three sessions of summer camps for students ages 6-18. Two-week sessions are offered in June, July and August. Each camp runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A half-day option is available from 9:00 a.m. to Noon or 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Classes include Acting, Singing, Theatre Dance, Voice, Theatre Art, Stage Combat, Magic and Audition Techniques and culminates with a talent showcase. http://bit.ly/1IpSFAv.
Camp Cranium Summer Camps
Learn the wizarding world of science through cooking, magic, art, and more at the Leonardo Museum. Kids 5-18 can spend the days from June 15- August 14 exploring programs built to inspire your not-interested-in-anything-but-boys daughter and your rambunctious, video-game inhaling son. http://www.theleonardo.org/exhibits-programs/camp-cranium/
