Super Bowl

I did manage to fight the windy, spicy cold and treacherous Parisian streets at midnight the night of February 7th, all for that craving of grown men tackling each other in hopes of preventing a piece of inflated pigskin from crossing a chalked line…Ahhh American football.

So I am on my way to a few bars in my area that I know are broadcasting the game.  My first stop, The Moosehead Cafe. As I approach, I see a line outside and groan as I wanted to enjoy a seat, a beer or two, and nice conversation with fellow fans.  But no, I see groups of study abroad students shelling out Maman and Papa’s $$ to get hammered and ‘experience’ France. Hmm…

So I am standing there watching the bouncers totally cheat Americans 20 Euros out of their national pastime and think to myself this cannot possibly be legal, as they Shhhsshh rowdy smokers in the street. Yea that’s what I thought, hustlers.

Obviously, my poor ass turned around and went to find the other bars. After going by 2 more bars that were charging money for admission 20-30 Euros with maybe a draft or two thrown in, I walk away hungry and sad that I won’t be enjoying my night with the Saints. 

I am walking back towards my place when I pass by Corcoran’s Irish Pub which I have frequented in the past. 

I see faces inside, taps lit, and screens hypnotizing. Even better no one standing at the door looking shady with a wad of cash in his hand….I knew this was by far my favorite bar in Paris.

Inside is perfect. Crowded but moveable.  I go to the bar to get a Kronenbourg while looking for an open seat somewhere.  I do not see anything so I stand for awhile watching the game. 

After a bit, a guy comes up to the bar and starts talking to me.  He is from Argentina.  Coupled with his poor, intoxicated English and my general lack of interest makes for a difficult conversation.

Eventually I head to the downstairs part with him where I find a seat and a big screen. At this point I am very content just watching the game and cheering alongside my fellow Americans sans dealing with questions like “Do you think I am cute?” and “Can I kiss you?”

Ok Go Away Now Please. Thank You.

Finally I am left alone to talk to two girls from Michigan, one of whom is studying graphic design at MICA - shout-out to Margs :)

Malheursement, 50%+ of the reason I watch the Super Bowl is for the commercials and of course why would they promote American commercials to a European audience.  But I did see much to my pleasure, the always satisfying Guinness ads.

“Bring it to Life”

Mais, fret not mes enfants – I watched the commercials online the next day, all 61 of them.