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Au Revoir Paris

It is with a sad heart that I left my beautiful winter wonderland Paris...
Just a little snow...
but, not before a spectacular nighttime dinner cruise along the Seine! We dined with the other teachers and people from Passports and had a wonderful time. One of the couriers, Kate, who had taken a real shine to Madison and her panda hat asked if she could wear it - which Madison (who had likewise taken a shine to Kate) happily obliged.
Kate Looking Smashing in Maddie's Panda Hat
As the snow blustered about, we sailed up and down the Seine and enjoyed fabulous people....
Bill & Will - Dinner Cruise
Madison, Moi, and Gabby- Dinner Cruise
 good food...
Our Appetizer 
Main Course - Cod Choice
Main Course - Veal choice
Dessert - Oui, s'il vous plaît!
 and gorgeous sights....
The Eiffel Tower - Glittering and Glowing at Night (photo credit: Bill Switala)
Two World Icons (photo credit: Jennifer Boyer-Switala)
Lady Liberty (photo credit: Jennifer Boyer-Switala)
We returned to the hotel and as exhausted as I was, I found it difficult to fall asleep because there was a big part of me (okay, pretty much all of me) that did not want to return to the US. I stared out the window into the dark, snowy Parisian sky and felt a sadness that is difficult to put in words. And I really don't think that the average person would understand, so I have never  even bothered trying to find the words. Maybe in my next blog...
Upon arriving at our gate at Charles de Gaulle, Paris granted me one last treat. I found a Ladurée standing before me. It was on my list of things to try while in Paris, but we never got to it. Well,  it seems that fate was telling me that now was my time!
Shelves at Ladurée (photo credit: Jennifer Boyer-Switala)
For those unfamiliar with Ladurée, it is the quintessential shop for candies and especially French macarons. It is decorated in such a style that is its own - feminine and French and shabby chic, and just plain awesome.
Ladurée Chandelier
I apologize for the glare on the photo below, but I had to include it so those who do not know what a French macaron is can see them up close. Most of my American friends would instantly think coconut macaroons (spelled with 2 o's). Not so with this brand of yumminess.
A half-dozen macarons at Ladurée - only about 20 USD! 
I just had to try one, so I chose a violet macaron. I love violet because it has a hint of raspberry flavor to it. Plus, it's just pretty to look at! Now, I have made macarons from scratch, and they are pretty darn good if I do say so myself. But this one...well, I believe the look on my face says it all!
I think...
I am...
in serious...
L-O-V-E!!
As I boarded the plane I fully expected the waterworks to begin as they normally do; however, I didn't cry. I figure it was either knowledge that I am returning in just six months or the obscene amount of legally prescribed Xanax numbing my psyche that prevented the tears from flowing. Perhaps it was a little of both? Either way, I felt blessed for the opportunity to learn so much and especially to share this phenomenal experience with my children. And with that thought, I bid Paris a fond (and temporary!) au revoir...
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Anonymous said…
I loved reading all of your "live" posts. Tres jealux (sp) about your winter adventures dans Paris! Sounds like you had a terrific time and how wonderful you got to experience it with your famile.
January 23, 2013 at 9:19 PM
Kelly Nelson said…
Wow! Snowy, wintry Paris is beautiful beyond words. I'm enchanted by your stories and pictures. I love that your whole family took this adventure together! (Although, I have to ask: why a trip now, during the school year, for a such a short time?) Whatever the reason -- how special that you experienced the city in a different season. It's truly beautiful.

Finally - I can't get over how everyone has grown up! I know it's been 7 years since I saw you guys... and that's what happens -- they grow up. I just love seeing the pictures of everyone!

Thanks for sharing your adventures!

January 24, 2013 at 9:16 AM
The Sabbatical Chef said…
I know how you felt as you were looking out at Paris your last night... I understand it all too well. I am feeling very whiny because I am not going to France this summer. But somehow I do not get any sympathy since I have already been twice in 2013. It just isn't ever enough, though, is it?
I hope you have a wonderful trip in July!! Can't wait to read all about it.
June 30, 2013 at 7:59 PM
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