The City of Lights.

When I was 11, my Mother organized our first trip as a family, to Europe.

After my Mom graduated college, she spent a year traveling Europe with the assistance of the book, How to see Europe on 50 cents a day. She always included this fact when she spoke of her travels.

My Dad had only previously been to London several times for work.

One of the cities we visited while abroad, was Paris.

I don't remember the hotel room, but I do remember a photo shoot my Dad helped to arrange on our balcony with a dozen roses. A balcony that had a view of the Eifel Tower.

I remember my Mom making us travel to Montmartre because she was determined to buy a painting.

I remember gazing at Notre Dame with admiration.

I recall a boat ride on the Seine.

I remember dogs being allowed in every restaurant, and that they would sit next to their owners.

I remember seeing the Mona Lisa at The Louvre.

I fondly recall going to the Centre Pompidou, and marveling at the architecture.

Steak frites.

Walking along the Champs D'Elysees, and the trek to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

The Musee D'Orsay.

I remember being in complete awe when we travelled to Versailles, and I got to see the bedroom of Marie Antoinette, and travel the immense grounds.

The casual sophistication of the French.

The smells of cigarettes and coffee and fresh bread that wafted throughout the city.

I recall joie de vivre with which my parents made the most out of our days there.

Les expériences sont les maîtres de la vie.

Je vous remercie Maman et Papa.

Xoxo,

C.