Paris ...

Finally, my Paris photos! Man, was it hard to edit. There were a couple of days in Paris when I wandered around solo while Eric attended a convention. These were definitely rare and cherished moments for a stay-at-home mama, lol! Cliché or not, one of my favorite things to see were all of the brasseries with their colorful and inviting bistro chairs and umbrellas. Always bustling with the locals. Except for this particular shot since it was a workday morning. As you can see the weather was shaping up nicely as it did everyday for us. I was so happy.

Of course shopping is abundant throughout the city but it was especially fun running into the original Goyard on rue Saint-Honoré. This photo is actually the second Goyard shop which is located directly across the street from the original (you can see it in the window reflection there). And the bookstores, oh the bookstores. They reminded me of the quaint, cozy book shops that existed before the giants took over. Don't you love the old, wooden library ladder?

One of the highlights of my trip (thanks to this great Paris Guide from Oh Happy Day) was strolling through this market at Motte-Piquet which was located near the Eiffel tower. It only takes place three times a week and I happened to be there on one of those days! It was so great mixing with the locals and taking in everything from vintage tabletop items, fruits, nuts, toys, apparel, and even seafood. I fell a little more in love with Paris this day.

As an afternoon snack I bought some fruit and one of the amazing fresh juices from this stand. Definitely a moment I will cherish. And of course I was drawn to the colors of this spread. So springy.

Here's a view of the Seine that I took from a bridge at the foot of the Notre Dame de Paris. In 2013, the Notre Dame will be celebrating its 850th birthday. 850th! Eric and I wandered around inside the church trying to grasp this concept. The incredible detail was very telling actually. Right down to the intricate pieces on the rooftop. I could see clearly the French Gothic architecture throughout. Breathtaking.

I loved seeing these chairs set up ready for the after work crowd to come chatter, share, and partake in the drink. Myself included:)