Late last year, I craved a change of perspective and a break from my daily routine. Most importantly, I wanted to escape the burden of my broken heart. I would have given anything to just feel like myself again and rediscover my “joie de vivre,” even if only for a few days. I flew to Paris the day after Thanksgiving and met up with my friend, Su Kim, who was returning from a three-week work trip in Africa.
Our time in “The City of Lights” consisted of hours of meandering exploration, taking in the fresh air and autumnal beauty of Paris as it prepared for Christmas. Old world charm and culture, famous and beautiful architecture, fashionable and attractive locals, and the perfume of croissants and coffee wafting through the air each morning, made me jump out of bed to see what the day would hold. We strolled along the Seine and listened to the accordions pump out Parisienne love songs. The romantic yet somewhat melancholy atmosphere suited my mood and softened me, slowly beginning to heal what was so deeply hurt and broken inside. Or maybe it was the medicinal properties of the French red wine which Su and I sampled with pleasure.
Like so many before me, after just four days, Paris seduced, inspired and breathed life back into me. And while my “joie de vivre” isn’t making daily appearances just quite yet, all I need to do is attend my weekly French class, touch the Paris metro ticket I keep in my pocket and look at these pictures to feel it again.
This is just a sample of my favorite cityscape pictures. The next post will be people pictures so stay tuned! If you really want more of Paris right now, the entire gallery can be found at http://bit.ly/xoFBBc
These are truly fabulous.