I saw and did so many things in Paris both with my cousin and on my own.

I saw the Mona Lisa (it’s much smaller than you’d expect), Luxembourg Palace, the Musée du Louvre, musicians on the metro (not on the platform but on the actual moving train. THAT took some skill!), Notre Dame, Winged Victory (it’s much bigger than you’d expect), and the miniature Statue of Liberty. I walked along the Seine River. I ate baguettes. I went to a Parisian public swimming pool where topless bathers are the norm so I, in my one piece bathing suit like a prudish American, was the most overdressed swimmer there. I used a bidet; which, by the way, are so amazing that I insist on having one on my toilet to this day (Americans are missing out)! I tried Pernod…yuck. I watched countless hours of French music videos and came home with a small stack of vinyl singles I just dragged out of storage today!

I was homesick and was dying to get back to the asshole I wanted to date, but I made the most of it and I’m proud of myself.

While I didn’t enjoy every moment, I certainly learned from every one. The most important lesson learned was to never shy away from an adventure. Sure, things still scare me sometimes but, ultimately, I feel stronger if I at least try.

I’ve always tried to be an example for my kids. Everywhere we go — we see sights, eat strange foods, and ride in hair-raising taxis but, most importantly, they see that we can make our way in a completely unknown city. I’m not afraid to ask for help and I’ve sometimes ended up in unexpected and amazing situations as a result.

I don’t let my fear stop me from trying something new or unknown. I’m not saying it has always worked out but I’ve always walked away with something, whether it was a memory, a lesson, or a good laugh.

For reading my long-winded tale, merci!

Au revoir!