Bonjour, Paris!

I visited Paris--finally!

My trip had its stereotypical "American in Paris" moments.
I was too sure of myself as an international traveler.
Visiting a country that didn't speak English, without anyone with me (except for Sunday with Kristy), and not having proper vision (eye problems)--I had a humbling weekend.

As I stepped on to the Air France plane and a flight attendant greeted me with, "Bonjour!"
It hit me--they are speaking French.
I don't speak French.
Shoot.

My seat buddy was a Sri Lankan immigrant in France who used to live in India.
We made interesting conversation--interesting because of the almost double language barrier.
Upon our arrival at Charles de Gaulle, he guided us through the airport (it helps he works there), past border patrol, and showed me which ticket I needed to get to Gare du Nord.  After a few stops on the train, he hopped off and I kept going, all the while processing that I was finally in France--Paris, France!

At Gare du Nord a nice couple offered their assistance, but I assured them I had it under control.  A few minutes later, I was wishing I had accepted their offer, although there was always the possibility that they were conniving.  However, I was swindled out of 30 euros a few minutes later by a sickly-nice Parisian young man who wanted to assist.  I'm still not sure what happened, as I saw him make the ticket purchase--and the ticket worked!  However, the next day it did not.

It was a "Lucy Moment."  I didn't get counterfeit bills, but I did get taken (speaking of Taken--as in the film--I watched both movies on the way back to America.  So, I've now finally seen them.) in Paris.  A rite of passage, maybe?

The rest of the evening I spent finding my flat, exploring Paris, trying to get to Sacre Coeur, only to walk through the Moulin Rouge, sex shop, etc. district, ate dinner at the Sacre Coeur, got lost, may have been followed by a strange man, and royally annoyed another Frenchman by completely ignoring him (while I tried to figure out where I was).  After discovering I was 4 kilometers from where I needed to be, I hailed taxi.  The driver informed me I wasn't in the safest of places.  Joy!  Now, I thought it was around midnight.  The next day I learned that my phone didn't change time zones...and I was out, roaming the streets of Paris, at 1AM.

The next day everything looked brighter.  I met Kristy back at the Sacre Coeur, and we went exploring!  We had a few things that we wanted to do, but other than that, we had an open schedule.  We visited Notre Dame, where I wanted photos of the flying buttresses!  So beautiful.  Then, I looked up and realized we were standing on the famous Lock Bridge.  After crossing it, there were the book stands along the Seine (Midnight in Paris moment).  We found a boulangerie and purchased baguette sandwiches and ate them along the Seine.  Next, we took the Metro to the Eiffel Tower.  The Eiffel Tower is now one of my most favorite structures.  It is magnificent!  We even had time to sit in a sidewalk cafe, savor a glass of wine, and share good conversation.  We moved on to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées.  We circled back to the Latin Quarter, bought gelato (yuuum!  made me miss Regensburg), and ate it while listening to music outside of Shakespeare and Company.  Shakespeare and Co. was incredible.  I cannot wait to go back and spend so much more time there.  It begged for hours of long, intellectual conversation.  Finally, we left and ate dinner in a creperie.  So yummy!  We wandered around a while more before parting ways at Saint-Michel.

The following day I visited the Louvre, saw the Mona Lisa and a few other things and then traipsed off to see Monet at The Musée de l'Orangerie.  Bliss, pure bliss.  I sat and gazed, soaking in the beauty of his work (even if it wasn't my most favorite).  Then, I went to the lower floor to view works by Degas, Renoir, and others.  Yes, I did hope to see the painting from Midnight in Paris that Gertrude Stein, later repeated by Gil, considered "a petit-bourgeois statement of how Picasso sees her..."  It was not there.  However, there were loads of other lovely paintings to enjoy.

I discovered I do like macaroons.
The Latin Quarter and other areas of Central Paris are my favorite.
Paris, overall, warrants another visit.

Riding the train into Paris

Sacre Coeur by night

Notre Dame--magnificent

With the flying buttresses!

The lock bridge--maybe I'll add one someday!

Book stalls--all in French

Baguette sandwich along the Seine?  Yes please!

Visiting Paris with Kristy--best first visit ever!

Love the Eiffel Tower!

Again, magnificent...and so detailed!

Yuuum!  Gelato!

I could have stayed here for hours!

Beauty

Preparing to say "au revoir"

The Louvre

In a Nutshell

England is magnificent.

The first week was busy, but things are slowing dow now (yay!).

In a nutshell, I've visited Bristol, stayed with Mary, Tim, Jude, and Julia, traveled to Paris, visited Uncle Gavin's for dinner, visited the University of Oxford, seen Jude and Julia's school, and spent some time relaxing and visiting.

It's a wonderful, semi-short visit.

It's incredible how much difference experience and two and a half years makes.

But, it's funny the insecurities that arise in an environment other than the one in which you've grown up.

I'm sitting at the kitchen table, glancing periodically out to the garden, sipping a cup of tea.

One of the many things I love about England, is when you go to someone's home, typically they will offer you tea.

Anyway, today I go to Stevenage to visit lovely family.

As I was thinking about it this morning, I became very excited.

When I get back to the USA, I will post pictures and share more detailed accounts.

Until then, watch for me at Centre Court during the Men's Wimbledon Finals!

Who do you think will be there?

P.S. Any guesses when the Royal baby will arrive?

Dear Friday: So Much

Dear Friday, It's hard to believe you've arrived.  Actually, harder than you think.  It seems crazy that I left the States on Tuesday--it doesn't feel that long.

Dear England, I'm here!  I hope you're ready for me.

Dear Family, It is wonderful to have seen you and I look forward to seeing the rest of you very soon!

Dear Paris, Come Saturday and I am yours for 2.5 days.  Cannot wait.  Absolutely giddy with excitement!

Dear Cary Grant, Yep, I took a picture with you.

Dear London, I'm so excited to walk your streets and re-familiarize myself with you.

Dear Wellies I've Yet To Buy, I can't wait to take you home with me!

Dear Mama, Thank you for getting me to the airport.  And rushing me to get my glasses fixed.  And still have time to pick up some shoes (that I wore yesterday!).

Dear Kristy, I get to see you SO SOON!  Beyond excited!

Dear Jamison, That dessert was amazing.  Let's make that our thing.  Gristmill for lavender ice cream and creme brulee!

Dear Amanda, I'm so glad you're in my life.

Dear Life, I have so much to be thankful for.  I am blessed with amazing friends, family, co-workers, community, and so much more.

Cheers!

In Preparation

I've made two lists. 
One of things to do before I leave. 
The other of what I need to pack.

I'm leaving the country in three days.
But, it feels different than the last time.
It's a shorter length of time.
And, I feel comfortable.
I know what to do.

I'm ready to be gone.
A change of scenery.
The opportunity to see family and friends I've missed for 2.5 years.

Now, to read some more of my book start scratching things off my list.

In Love With a Place I've Never Been

I feel like Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face
Photo Via

I'm in a state of giddy excitement.
Actually, it's been a long time since I've felt these emotions.

You're probably wondering why...
I'll tell you.

Because, I'M GOING TO PARIS!

I am finally making it to a city I've longed to visit most of my life.
Lists are in my planner, a guide book, and in my head.
I've never been one to really pour over guide books...until now.

Like I've said all along, I have no intention of trying to cram touristy things into my visit.
I know what I want to do, and I will do my best.
I am welcoming suggestions.
And, then I will walk.
Soak in the city.
Dream dreams in a new place.
Probably, at some point, decide I need to live in Paris.
Pick where I'll want to live.
And, recall scenes from my favorite movies that take place in Paris.

Also, what actually prompted me to finally write about my love affair with a city I've yet to visit, I may have just discovered an amazingly large collection of Monet's art--and I verbalized my excitement to my obliging walls.

Never Have I Ever Been to Paris...YET!

Photo via

Life is busy, full, and fulfilling! 

However, it is time to pause and update.

Two weekends ago I bought my ticket to LONDON!
(actually, I bought my ticket three years after leaving the last time)

From June 25-July 10 I will be in in England, with a 2.5 day mini-vaca to PARIS!

That's right.  I'm going to Paris--can'tevenhandleit.

I have most of my time in England planned.
Since I've spent a good bit of time in England, I'm taking this trip to relax, visit family and friends, and do a few things I didn't get to the last time (like visit St. Paul's Cathedral, go to Oxford, and stroll around London...leisurely). 

However, Paris is an entirely new place for me.
I still want to stroll around and just soak it up.
There are several things I positively plan on doing (like going to the top of the Eiffel Tower), but I don't want to feel rushed.
On Monday, my last day, I am going to the Louvre by myself.
I don't know when I will be there next, so I want to be sure I get to see everything on my list (the list I have yet to make).

So, do you all have any tips of things to see and do in Paris?

I will be watching Midnight in Paris and Funny Face before leaving : ) (hopefully)

P.S. A month from today Daddy and I each turn a year older, and I'll be at the Wimbledon Men's Finals with Jess!

Dear Friday: Life Is Mostly Great

Junior Prom 2013
Photo by K.L.R.

Dear Friday, so glad you arrived and brought a half day of school with you!
Dear Paris, I'm coming to visit!  I am going to love you, I just know it!
Dear England, Can't wait to see you, either.  It's been too long!
Dear Life, I need a little break.  This afternoon, I will rest.
Dear French Open, please come back into my life!
Dear Spring, I think you don't like us this year.
Dear Sunshine, thank you for shining!
Dear Creation, you take my breath away.
Dear Brother, you are so grown up!  I'm glad you had fun at prom : )
Dear Students, I still think you all are great.
Dear Graduates, I'm excited for you as you step from one adventure into another!

Early Morning Calm

"Prince" Caspian
Photo by K.L.R.

The sliding door is open, Caspian is lying at it looking out, and I'm eating a yummy, refreshing breakfast (my tea needs to be warmed).

I love quiet mornings, especially in the spring and summer.
Still, morning air waking up.
A light breeze that carries the bird's chirping.
The sun not yet above the moments, thus making it permissible to stay in my pajamas a little while longer.

Relaxing early morning hours that evolve into productive mid to late mornings are bliss.
This doesn't mean I have a "To Do" list a mile long...although, it is rather lengthy.

My thoughts are wandering from the article I need to write to my pending trip to England to my dear friend in France to whether or not I'll make it to Paris.  Oh, and then there is a day trip to Oxford that would be fun.

I'm becoming more and more excited about my upcoming trip to England.

This summer is going to be amazing.
I don't think I've looked forward to an entire summer this much in quite some time.

Today I get to play tennis.
With my newly restrung racquet.
It's amazing what good strings will do.
While playing yesterday, I hit a shot--that you'd expect to go in--but when it did, I was happily surprised....and realized it was because of my awesome new strings!

The Problem of Moving...Solved!

Thanks, Pinterest!

Growing up, I moved every year or so (sometimes more, sometimes less) until I was nine.  I've never minded the frequent moving.  In fact, I'm glad my family moved a lot.  The moves let me see lots of the eastern half of the United States.

However, I would be lying if I said I never wished I had friends from my childhood, people I could say I'd known since we were born...or something.

I've always said I want to move a lot, never really settle down.  But, sometimes a part of me likes the idea of making roots, retaining friends in near vicinity and living life with them for  a while.  Then, I find myself in a quandary.  Move often, experience lots, and make new friends....all.the.time?  Or, move less often, visit places, but create a family of friends, connections, and familiarity with fewer places as HOME?

While gazing out the window at the rain a few minutes ago, I thought of a solution.  Feel free, move a lot.  But, buy a vacation home...you know, in the south of France...and that can be the steady factor.

I'm just trying to think ahead and plan for my maybe-one-day, imaginary children.  Of course, if I don't have children, it won't matter so much--I will just enjoy my vacation home regardless of where I usually live ;)

Four Songs: From Taylor to Ingrid

Blog Challenge time, again!
I'm supposed to put my iPod on shuffle and write about the first five songs.
But, I don't use my iPod enough to keep it charged.
So, as I've been prone to do during this challenge, I am going to change the rules a little bit.

I'll be writing about the four songs I can recall having bought on iTunes (I know, keel over in shock) songs I enjoy.

Love Story by Taylor Swift
I bought this song after it became a fun memory song with friends.  We would sing (screech?) it at the top of our lungs in the car.  And, I like this song.  And enjoy picturing Romeo and Juliet (the play) in my mind (does that make me a nerd of some kind?).  Except, it has a happy ending.

Breakfast at Tiffany's by Deep Blue Something
I just love this song.  I don't remember where I first heard it.  But, I love it.  I think I read that although the song is named after Breakfast at Tiffany's the song actually follows the storyline of Roman Holiday (both are Hepburn movies).

Scalliwag by Gaelic Storm
I first heard this song on Pandora last summer.  I loved it so much and decided I had to buy it.  So, I did.  Although I can't understand a lot of the words, they talk about wellies.  And, the music is so fun and upbeat.  It makes me want to scurry over the pond!

You and I by Ingrid Michaelson
They talk about the south of France.  And, the music is fun.  Ok, I don't have a lot of commentary, but it is a fun song.

Well, now you know.
Happy listening!

Note of a Friend

Just a little personal note:

I keep tabs of countries viewing my blog.
It is exhilarating when a new country pops up!

The last few weeks France has been showing up more than usual.
I thought, I wonder if that is Kristy.

Turns out, it is!

I wrote (captions under pictures) a little bit about Kristy and her upcoming move to France earlier in August.
Well, she is now there, settling it nicely.

We were able to Skype earlier in the week, which was AWESOME!

Anyway, it is a nice feeling knowing when I see France it is her : )

 

Open Season for Surprises!

I am unpacking and trying to settle in.
It is hard because I know I want to move to England, Germany, France, or anyplace in Europe.
But, I sorted clothes today and measured a space for a mattress.
No bed for me.  Instead, I want to make a tiny room with three walls.

In case anyone is thinking of taking a trip, it is always open season for surprise visits to Kirsten's.
Not being in college proves for some lonely days.
And, not being employed full-time leaves lots of hours to idle away time.
Routine is coming slowly.  I need to speed it up, though.

I will do a before, mid, and after post of my area when it is complete.

Until next time, friends!

Three Weeks of Life in Pictures

Here are a few photos to document the past, oh, three weeks or so!

A fabulous vintage shop in Staunton

My lovely Aunt Barbara

I bought this umbrella right after.

Glass coke bottles for Holland!

Not only do I want to marry a man who wears a fedora, now I want one.

The lovely Kristy.  She leaves for France in a week.

Ja'dore Winter Park.

Our farewells.

Universal with Josh.

Please read the comic.

Harry Potter World.

"Please respect the spell limits." Ha!

I love the design they did!

Josh was a dear and let me have fun in the I Love Lucy store : )

The beach!

Daddy at the beach.

Lovely morning sun.  The beach is my summertime happy place.

The clouds were amazing!

Pink Champagne

A glorious day!

My mountains from the early morning sky.

A bear cub I saw while driving over the mountain.

Circus McGurkus Cafe!

Aw, my cute cousin!