The first question I get asked about my last trip, “did you have so much fun?” And the answer is more complex than you would think. I had the absolute best time traveling and laughing with Krystal and it felt so amazing to be back. I literally feel like myself when I am there. But what I didn’t expect was how different I would feel about it as opposed to this summer. I booked my trip back a few weeks after returning because I missed it so much. So I expected it to be a very similar feeling as to what I had experienced a few months before. This summer everything about Paris was new, exciting, and scary. I really felt alive. I enjoyed every walk, every dinner, every day because it was all so new and fresh. I really felt like I lived Paris. So when I went back a few weeks ago I was surprised how I felt. While I still loved it with every fiber of my being that “newness” and “excitement” had worn off. I walked the same streets I had all summer, I had seen the buildings (although they never do get old), and I was no longer afraid to order food or walk into a store. That feeling had worn off, whatever that feeling is. Some people say this is great because it showed just how much I did this summer but it was something I wasn’t prepared for. While Paris will always hold such a special place in my heart, I am excited for new adventures in the future (i.e. I am leaving for Cuba in an hour)!

It is so comforting to know that Paris will always be there. The same streets and buildings will be there when I go back. And it does feel extraordinary that I can say all of this as there was a time I never thought I would ever get to “live and experience” Paris. And a time where I was scared shitless to be there alone (read this post). I cried for the first day because I was so scared to have go buy groceries or go to a restaurant in fear I couldn’t communicate. It is a dream I got to live and I can’t believe it is over. I honestly never thought I would get here, so to realize I have come full circle is such a moment. A really surreal moment.

I wanted to take a quick moment to say thank you again for all of your kind words over the summer and the past few months through e-mails, comments, and face to face. I have loved getting to share my excitement over Paris with all of you! Your sweet thoughts and kind words have meant so much. I can’t believe I have such amazing people who read this blog! Also, don’t worry, the photos, city guides, and recommendations will keep on coming. Because after it all, Paris still lives in my heart!

** So all of this to say, if you want to fall in love with Paris for your first time or go back and experience it all over again don’t forget to enter the Delsey “fly me to Paris” giveaway. It is an amazing opportunity! They will gift you these Chatelet bags you see above, give you $1K spending money, and fly you and a friend to Paris THREE times! No purchase is necessary and you can enter here! Bonne chance!