Paris on my mind…

I’m so wishing I could visit Paris in the spring once again. It’s been a year ago today that I boarded a plane to the destination of a lifetime. I’ve relived those Paris memories in my mind many times, but I find myself reminiscing more frequently these days. The weather outside is bleak. Snow on the ground. I’m thinking I’ll treat myself to a mental escape… April in Paris anyone?

 

We picked the perfect time of year to visit Paris. It seemed as though spring time arrived with us. The tulips were in full bloom. Pink, white, and purple blossoms weighed down the branches on almost every tree. The weather was mild, sunny and perfect. It was like heaven.  The picture above is of one of the oldest structures in Paris, a tower dating back to medieval times, juxtaposed against some of the newest blossoms of spring time.

We visited all kinds of magical places. This place is Bagatelle, a garden created especially for Her Majesty, Marie Antoinette, so beautiful it literally brought me to tears. There were tulips growing straight out of the grass, peacocks strutting freely on lush, green lawns, graceful water falls cascading, turquoise gazebos to pause under, and carefully manicured gardens all round. It was exactly how I imagine heaven. Needless to say, I’ve taken many a mental journey back to Bagatelle.

We used bikes, the city’s Velib system, to get around from place to place. I can still feel the wind in my hair and hear the noise of traffic as I pedal through the streets of Paris, keeping a close eye on Emilie, our wonderful guide. She really knew her way around town, and how to avoid getting hit by a bus. Very important.

It was Easter time in Paris. Every pastry shop and chocolate shop was pulling out all the stops. I can still taste the chocolate eggs filled with hazel nut cream, and those delicate and delicious French macaroons. I’ll never forget eating my first official French croissant. Nothing I’ve tasted in the States can even compare. Mouthwatering.

And my absolute favorite part of the journey…..the people. Emilie, Alisa, Xavier, and of course little Marguerite, it wouldn’t have been nearly the trip without these fine people. (Without Emilie and Xavier’s generous hospitality the trip wouldn’t have even been possible. I love you two forever)

My all time favorite memories of Paris are sitting in cafes, parks, or just around Emilie and Xavier’s dinner table, talking and enjoying the company of family. 

Alisa, thanks for sharing your amazing photos (most of these are hers). Your skill behind the lens makes it so much easier to go back to Paris whenever I wish. Also, if anyone would like to enjoy a much better, more informed and lovely trip through Paris visit Emilie’s blog here.

My uncle Brad always says you can’t put a price tag on memories, they last a lifetime. After taking that trip to Paris one year ago, I’m beginning to agree with him. I’m so in love with the memories. 

I’ll always have Paris.