Portraits of Belleville: Mme. la Boulangère

We have two favorite boulangeries on the Rue de Belleville: the "Moulin de Pierre," close to Métro Belleville; and the "green one" (it doesn't really have a name) about a block up the hill from our apartment. There is no question that the Moulin de Pierre offers slightly higher quality bread products, pastries, and cakes. But the boulangère who seems to run the "green one" exudes such warmth, such enthusiasm, such positive vibes, that we're more than happy to sacrifice a little quality for the experience. This picture doesn't really do her justice, but if you imagine someone sending you out of a shop with the sincere wish, "I hope you have an absolutely wonderful day!" you'll start to get the idea.