Reflections on Paris

As Claire said in a prior post, Paris seemed to be full of important things at every turn. From art, to architecture, to mouth watering food, everything seemed to strive for your full and unwavering attention. While this at times this made Paris tiring, it also made it incredible. For me however, there were a number of things that held my attention more that others.

1. Art: I have always said that I'm the musician and my sister is the artist. A quick glance at our childhood art still on display in the basement of my childhood home would cement the claim for any skeptics. Due to this, I have never really taken time to enjoy art or appreciate it. However spending time at the Louvre, Musee L'orangerie and Centre Pompidou has given me a new appreciation. Strolling through these places gave me time to both enjoy visual art and learn what type of art and artists I prefer. Leaving Paris with an Notes list on my phone of art and artist I want to spend my time looking into was not something I expected.

2. Bread and Chesse: Any of those who know me understand my allegance to these carb and dairy products. I knew Paris and France were known for these items but I was still floored and continue to be while in Avignon. The croissants Claire and I had from a small bakery in Alfortville outside Paris were one of the best things I have ever eaten. I did not think this could be topped until I ran across the blue cheese here. If nothing else, I will return to Paris again just to eat bread and cheese.

3. Trains: Long distance high speed trains are something I have always yearned to go on and cursed the USA for not have any to fulfill this dream. Needless to say I was giddy as a school boy waiting for our train to leave from Paris to Avignon. As we gently rode through the French country side with ample leg room and comfortable seats, I felt like Peeta traveling with Katniss into the capital on the lighting fast train in Hunger Games. The experience was incredible and we traveled roughly 359 miles in 2 hours and 45 minutes! We need to get these in America so I, and everyone else, can ride them regularly.

Avignon has been great as well and we will post more about that soon.