Saturday, March 3, 2012

Toujours à Paris

Paris - la ville de mes rêves et mon coeur - vos souvenirs resteront avec moi pour toujours

My mind often goes back to the time I spent in Paris during my college years. A city of history; a city of glamour; a city of mystery; a city of art; a city of the world. For a mid-western girl, it was the ultimate cosmopolitan experience.

It was fall in the city. The strolls along the Seine, the changing leaves rustling in the breeze, created an enchantment unsurpassed anywhere in the world. The monuments and museums offered rainy afternoon explorations of masterpieces and history. The most amazing aromas wafted out of the patisseries and cafes lining the sidewalks of the city. The artists surrounding Notre Dame and the book vendors along the river gave endless hours of pleasure. Dusty reliques of the past were waiting to be discovered in enchanting antique shops in St. Germaine. The hidden gardens of the city, the fountains, the children playing in the parks, lovers snuggling on benches along tree lined paths, aging gentlemen concentrating on a game of chess, elderly couples walking hand in hand, the scenes of the city play over and over in my mind like the reels of a movie.

I will never forget my times in Paris, just a train ride away from my home at the time.

Adieu, Paris, vous allez vivre dans mes rêves jusqu’à ce que nous nous reverrons.