Iconic Paris

I have something to admit. I am slightly overwhelmed with the process of recapping this trip. I usually don't have trouble editing down the number of images I wish to include when creating a post, but this vacation was a mega one for a lot of reasons and there are so many stories and photos I want to remember and share. And there's still Prague. And Bulgaria. Oh my!

While combing through photos yesterday, I felt inspired to group some together that fall under the category of "Iconic Paris," or, landmarks we associate as unequivocally "Parisian."

First, Notre Dame Cathedral. We stepped off the metro after returning from Versailles, walked a block or two, and gasped. I've always had a thing for churches and this one is truly unparalleled. Also, the sky was a perfect bright blue, which made for a spectacular backdrop. (See photo above).

I was told it would be a crime to visit Paris without making a stop at Laduree for a box of world-famous macarons. I wish I could show you that box, but we ate the entire contents worth within five minutes of purchasing. Let me make one thing very clear: people are not lying. Dessert is a serious thing.

Apparently, a Manhattan(!) location is opening on Madison Avenue soon. This could be very dangerous for my waist line, though I can't say I'm all that surprised. We New Yorkers like to eat and we typically like to eat the highest quality of foods. Also, does this mean I could feasibly have macarons at our wedding?

Looking back, I would say La Seine significantly characterized our trip. The name derives from a Latin phrase meaning "sacred river," which is so apropos in describing moments and memories that occurred while walking along its bank. Much more to come.

And last, the Eiffel Tower. You know, I'm not really one to surrender to the stereotypes, but seeing this structure for the first time gave me chills. It's as tall, as beautiful, and as magical as you've imagined it to be.

We spontaneously decided to climb it at 11:00 PM and even though our feet were sore and our minds were racing with excitement over the day's flurry of activity, I am so glad we did.

I'll let the view speak for itself.

To every person who told me that Paris would change me--you were right. The city of light took my breath away and I'm pretty certain my soul is still floating somewhere over the rooftops.