Kate's Parisian Escape

Chapter 13

July 4th, 2011

Lorie Valley, France

To: Katherine Perryman <dreamchaser89@gmail.com>

From: Louise Perryman <Iloverickspringfield@gmail.com>

Re: HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!!!!

I know the French don't celebrate the Fourth of July, but I hope you and Jeremy are still able to enjoy the holiday! Although, it won't be the same without you at the annual Perryman Fourth of July BBQ. I fear I've made too much potato salad, which your sister has now informed me she no longer eats. I think this has something to do with her dance classes. Has she told you about that boy Billy? Such a sweet kid. I don't know why she insists on making such a fuss. He even invited Lizzie to a marathon of Planet of the Apes. I'm not exactly sure what this is but she could have considered it before immediately saying no!

In other news your Aunt Emily said Diana received your spoon rest. She's now even discussing having her honeymoon in France! Wouldn't that be fun if she came to visit you? I'm sure Jeremy wouldn't mind. You did say this château had plenty of space, right? Diana doesn't want to be spending too much so it would help a lot if they could stay with you. Only two more weeks until the wedding!

Your father says to tell you hello and he misses watching baseball with you. He seems quite sad with you gone. No one else seems to care that the Royals are doing so badly. But they're not exactly known for being a winning team, so I don't know why he's so surprised. Though I do wish he wouldn't wear that apron that says, "Spank the Cook."

Happy 4th!

MOM

P.S. Diana does not hate you. But it was quite expensive to have that doll fixed!

P.P.S. I told everyone you couldn't come to the wedding because you were exposed to tuberculosis and needed to be quarantined.

Kate was sure the Fourth of July would pass like any other day at Château de Langlois. But it turns out that Jeremy's dad loves this holiday and always throws a masquerade ball to celebrate!

"He's American and he loves to drink, the fourth is the perfect excuse to enjoy both." Jeremy told her when David had explained his plans.

"What about your mom?" Kate had asked.

Jeremy shrugged, "It gives her a reason to get more Botox."

"Your mom looks fine." Kate pointed out.

Jeremy nodded. "We know that, but she'll never agree."

As a result, Kate decided to dress up as Tinker Bell to go along with her pixie haircut. She found a nice green dress that she accessorized with plastic wings and gold heels. Jeremy dressed up as Aladdin. He looked quite cute in his fez hat and purple vest. They decided Rue de Lepic would be Simba, not that this required any effort on his part.

The great hall was decorated with streamers and flowers, all in red, white, and blue of course! There were also tiny American flags for guests to wave, noise makers and plenty of food! Including a chocolate fountain, apple pie and to Kate's delight grilled hot dogs and burgers!

"We have fun on the fourth at my house, but I could get used to this!" Kate informed Jeremy as she piled her plate with food. Because it was a masquerade ball, Kate wore a thin green mask over her eyes and nose.

"My dad has always known how to throw a good party." Jeremy said as they took their food to a table.

"And yet he let your mom take you to Jules Verne instead of Chuck E Cheese for your birthday?"