La Tour Eiffel: A Study in Perspectives

I think there must be something about being in Paris that makes me take crappy photos. Is it just that everything is so beautiful to look at that any attempt to capture it on film falls short? In any case, I was already off to a bad start when I resorted to taking this shot through the bus window at a rest stop on the drive between Tours and Paris:
As such, I don't have a name for this rough-riding, motorcycling pooch, but what he lacks in title he more than makes up for in attitude.

I should also note here that the French even do rest-stops in style. The multi-level complex situated just about half-way between the two cities features a wide range of restaurants and snack bars on the inside, with a well-groomed "sculpture garden" out front. But enough about the drive over; I know what you really want to see:


I live in the 15th arrondissement, which means that to get just about anywhere on foot or by bus I have to (i.e. get to) walk by the Eiffel Tower. So, naturally, I have a lot of pictures of it.



The change in weather between them should be proof enough that these are all from different days. This shot is the view of Paris, Eiffel Tower in the background, from Point Neuf, the bridge that crosses over from the right bank to the left right at the tip of the island where Notre Dame is:



I'd tell you more about what I've been doing, but to be honest, these pictures really do say it all. I've spent the last three days wandering about the city, taking in the sites and sounds, blistering my feet, and loving every second of it. My classes at Sweet Briar don't start until Monday, and the ones at the Sorbonne until the 12 of October, so I'll have plenty more time to work out the kinks in my photography skills and practice the art of blending in. You wouldn't believe how excited I get when anyone stopes me on the street to ask for directions or when a server starts talking to me in French.

On one final note, I am sad to say that despite much walking about, I haven't really asked anyone if I can take a picture of their pooch. That didn't stop me from snagging a shot of this shaggy fellow as he trotted ahead of his owner across the street from where I was eating lunch today. Hope you enjoy!