Whilst observing their happiness. . .

You know I've been gone a long time when I start using the word "Whilst." I always hated that word (the Brits use it) and felt that it was a lazy, confounded and fanciful way of saying, "While."
As we observe the French (and we do as often as possible) we note that they appear to be a happy lot. Not at all what one reads about in the USA papers which depict them as a sour, mean, dissatisfied people. On the contrary, we see them as universally pleased with things. We live in a native French part of town and these people are having the time of their lives. We assume there are other parts of town that are "Rougher around the edges," but everywhere that we go the French are happy as a clam! We read somewhere that the constant pressure that is removed from their lives by having universal healthcare makes for a very content crowd. We should do that. Also, all over town, there is a boulangerie, a fromagerie, a charcuterie and a wine shop every block or two. Now that is something that will make you HAPPY!  We have yet to have a bad meal in France (Duh!). Even in the touristy and quickie restaurants the food is above average. We had a street sandwich from the "Pomme & Pain" shop last week that was so good Duane wants to open a franchise in Tucson. Every other sandwich shop would fold in 6 weeks! It was that good!
Now, I am certain there are some things that get people all upset here (Like their politicians), but as a whole we would have a hard time finding fault with their way of life. They ride bikes, go for long walks along the Seine, hang out in parks like the Place de Vosges, take looooong lunches (And Vacations) and wear great scarves. What's not to love. Duane will have to send you a picture of his new scarf!