Paris, the summary

Its funny, over the past several days (leaning into weeks now) I have been trying to set aside time to finally complete my Paris article and to properly savor the memories of such a fantastic trip. I think I have some excuses however so I will list them now: work has been going too fast, too much travel and too little time to give me ample moments to write; we have had visitors from Holland, a new air conditioner installed (which means a heat issue until its done) and just catching up in general leaving me little or no time to prepare my lines.

Before I completely forget the entire trip, and to make sure I at least complete a few thoughts, I want to mention a few things that stick in my mind even now.
Taking a pause.

Whether it is over a coffee, double espresso, gelato, or over dinner, the Parisians have a very nice way to stop time and enjoy the moments. I miss that probably more than ever. Why is it, that with even a cup of espresso, or hot tea in the morning I am multitasking away my day? I want the singular moment to enjoy, think, ponder and just slow down.

A surprise on our trip was a visit to an apartment, not just any place but a home that was witness to many talks & discussions in the early 1900's. This was the apartment that Abdu'l-Baha, the son of the Prophet Founder of the Baha'i Faith resided after he was released from a lifetime of persecution and prison (he was about 60 when he was allowed to travel after confinement) due to his and his father's belief in the essential oneness of humanity. At 4 Avenue de Camoens, in 1911, from October through December, presentations were given about a very new concept...recognizing people as one, regardless of politic, color, nationality or class. Talks were short, but very insightful, inspiring and revolutionary for its time. It was at this place that Pieter and I visited, and it was here that the moments of pause really mattered. It was almost as if we could see back in time and feel the warmth, graciousness and love of Abdul'Baha. That name may sound strange to readers unaware, but if you read his writings and find out about his life, one begins to understand the amazing sacrifice and compassion that this human being shared with everyone he met. In any event, we felt it there and were incredibly honored to have seen this place; as well as the 18 other Baha'is visiting that day ( from US, Africa, Australia, Holland and France)!

The rest
Shopping was great fun, we loved Le Bon Marche, that had an amazing array of foods, pastries, spices, furniture, and even clothes, (similar to Wegmans, Nordstrom and Whole Foods combined) We bought lots of little gifts and enjoyed trying to savor the French food, cheese, and artsy stuff that is literally unknown here. Ever see a butterfly patch with intricate design and sparkles that could be ironed on pants for girls? Or sugar cubes in the shape of a heart that fits on the rim of a cup? A toy air baloon made to an exact replica from a century ago?

Art was amazing, overwhelming, sometimes dizzying but great to experience. Seeing Monet across an entire wall, or the Mona Lisa surrounded by so many people, or my favorite, Rodin's Kiss. No words to describe that one.

Cafes, museums, moments, walking, friends, dinners etc. It was heaven, and I feel blessed that we could go. Missed my kids, but it was really worth it, every drop, every moment...J'aime Paris. Now I just have to remember to bring some Paris back home.