When I started writing this blog, I wanted to make Paris feel like home as quickly as possible. Despite living blocks away from Gustave Eiffel's iron lady, I somehow skipped over the honeymoon stage of cultural adjustment and found myself wishing I was in Paris, Texas not Paris, France. I didn't want to act out Amelie's Montmartre adventures or eat macarons like little Madeline or live any other Parisian lifestyle--I wanted to make sloppy joes, watch Gossip Girl, and continue living the American dream in sweatpants. The need to make Paris feel more "stars and stripey" consumed my first few months as an expat. I searched high and low for apple pie and baseball in this city, but the information out there was all gobbledygook and every trail led to moms searching for English speaking play groups--not exactly what you're looking for as a 25 year old newlywed. It's been over a year since I set out in search of la vie américaine, and thankfully, Paris and I are on much better terms. The city's quirks have grown on me, and I've stopped raging over the lack of ground turkey in the meat aisle. But, that doesn't mean I don't like a bagel and cream cheese every now and then or a good episode of Modern Family to while away an evening. Below you'll find the names and places that helped me get over my 24/7 red-white-and-blue obsession and live a happy Parisian-American life.

Fitness First
Just go there and talk to the membership desk in person. Usually they speak some English and it's easier than navigating the website. Expensive, but if you hate exercising in rainy weather you might want to invest in a gym pass.
Club Med
Same deal as Fitness First maybe even a tad nicer. This would be my dream gym choice.
ParisFitness at the American Church
Offers classes for 11 euros a pop (or you can get a class card). Classes are similar to what you'd find at a U.S. gym and the instructors are awesome! I love all of Alison's classes. You can follow her on Twitter @ParisFitness. Ask to be put on the mailing list so you can keep up to date on the schedule.
La Gym Suedoise
Get a French speaker to help you with the website (or use Google translate). Gym Suedoise classes are held at different venues throughout the city so there's always something going on where you are. You can purchase a pass based on the number of classes you'll take each  month. Class are in French, but you really just need to follow the moves.
Club ASPTT Paris--Club Musculation
A moderately priced option that lets you pick and choose how you get your butt in gear. Use a French speaker to navigate your way through the club's options.
Fitness Park
Love this 24 hour low cost option. Fitness Park has locations in La Defense and Republique. Only downside: live instructors don't run the classes, but that means you can sneak in and out without feeling guilty!
BodyRockTV
The instructors look like fitness superstars and it's hard to get motivated when you're looking at them. This is an excellent option for people who'd rather work out at home. Check out Jayme's post about BodyRock.
Live Exercise (liveexercise.com)
Just discovered this FREE website where you can take "live" fitness classes. With the US/Europe time change, the class times work our perfectly!
Yogis Anonymous
An at home option that allows you to take live yoga classes or access their yoga class library. For $5 you get a 24 hour pass, $10 gets you a 7 day pass, and for $15 you get unlimited access to classes.
Pools
I loathe  public swimming pools like the plague, but apparently Paris pools are very clean and a popular place to exercise. Read this piece in the NY Times for a peek into the pool scene and don't forget to watch out for lane hogs!
Decathlon or Go Sport
Hit up these stores for all of the fun equipment that comes along with being a sporty gal. For running specific gear, check out this post from Posted in Paris.

P.S. I don't get any $$$, free stuff, or sweet shout outs for mentioning the stores, businesses, or organizations listed on this page.