I slept later than plan because I am still slightly jet lagged so got a late start on the day.

When I went out, I was surprised by the number of people out on the streets. There were people shopping, people at the restaurants eating and drinking beer and wine, family groups just wandering the streets. It is such a different vibe than DC. Yes, in Alexandria you see people out and about on Saturday but not in the number you see in Toulouse. It is as if the entire city is out enjoying the experience.

I did a little grocery shopping. I got some food for dinner tomorrow night as the markets close early on Sunday and are not open on Monday. As usual, I am surprised at how inexpensive good food is here. I bought some meat, flour, oranges, lemonade, garlic, a lemon, and mushrooms and the total was about 12 euros which my guess is just under $13. I am liking the ability to buy things and eat food here that I would not/could not get in DC.

After shopping and just enjoying the day, I went out for a solo run on the Canal de Midi. I did five miles along the canal which runs right through the middle of the city. It would be like the C&O canal running down the middle of King Street in Alexandria. You run by canal locks and other scenic things. The path is mostly paved so makes running easy. Also, as Bruno who I met at the running group on Thursday said, it is pretty flat in Toulouse so the running is fairly easy. The only inclines see to be the approached to the bridges over the canal and the river. The temperature was about 70 degrees without a lot of humidity so for me ideal running conditions.

During the run, I saw a park that had a little street fair going on. It seemed to be based on the French overseas possession as it was calypso music. It was fun to see.

Since it was Saturday night, I decided to go out for a cocktail before dinner and then have dinner out. Again, not to be repetitive, but the streets of Toulouse were teaming with people. With the nice weather there were lots of people sitting outside at cafes, bars and restaurants. There were many people just strolling the streets. I found a nice bar and had a glass of red wine for 6 euros. It was fun to enjoy the wine and watch the people go by.

Wandered to a different part of the city for dinner. I ate at La Petit Marias (chosen because it was well populated and seemed to have a good menu at reasonable prices). Most restaurants have a sandwich board in front of the restaurant with their menu du jour posted on it. Many restaurants have a daily offering which includes an entree (appetizer), plat (main course) and dessert included for a single price. These seem to be great deals.

I went with the menu (25 euros) and had Fois Gras de Maison, Pavè du Saumon and Fondant du chocolat. I had a verre de vin rouge (Merlot). It was all delicious.

I worry that I am going to gain weight with all the good food but think with the number of steps I take every day and the running, I should survive in a semblance of good shape.