My return to Paris was a study in contrasts. Rather than willing myself up steep inclines in the Pyrenees during a heat wave, I conquered the cold and rainy days of Paris by lolling about and catching up on the journal. A bit of rest was needed and well-earned, but after a week I was planning my next trip, one that would take me along the Vélo Maritime on the northern border of France. It was a grand plan, but life got in the way and my stay in Paris was extended.

The chain of events that led to staying in Paris began with a trip to a pulmonologist, an appointment made to check out my lungs and hopefully get some exercises to improve/restore my lung capacity. Everything checked out - normal lung function that could be improved with increased exertion but no cause to worry. Due to my history of smoking, however, the doctor ordered a scan. I wasn’t too concerned - I’d kicked the habit about 30 years ago.

I’m not exactly sure what type of scan I had - I was in a tube but it wasn’t an MRI or CT scan. Whatever it was, it raised the concern of the radiologist who informed me I had calcium deposits in my coronary arteries and should see a cardiologist. That news sent me into a tizzy, only relieved by watching the Tour de France. I considered returning to the US where I have good health insurance but quickly realized that a plane ticket back home would cost more than a cardiologist visit and an echocardiogram in Paris. I needed an appointment with a general practitioner for the cardio appointment, and she not only eased my irrational fear that I could drop dead at any moment but also referred me to physical therapy for my lungs.

And everything turned out fine - the cardiologist said my heart was in great condition and that the small calcium deposits were a result of my age, not stenosis. The PT assessment has also been very positive. My last appointment is next week and I just have to continue the suggested exercises to stay on the good side of health. And keep cycling, striving always to push back that line of decline.

Heart

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And so what have I been doing these last few weeks in Paris, besides fretting about my health and watching the Tour de France? In general, just enjoying life in Paris - getting together with some friends, catching the special David Hockney exhibit at Fondation Louis Vuitton, and hosting some American friends in town for a day or two. My Invader-inspired wanderings around Paris led me to new discoveries as I explored this wonderful city on foot and on Velib, reminding me every day to be thankful for all that I have.

I’ll share some pictures and a few comments - a glimpse into my life in Paris during July, 2025.  But you'll have to wait until the next post.