A LA CARTE

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Paris Day One

I am here! Finally and yes it is even better then I dreamed!

My daughter Ashleigh took me to the airport to depart for Paris on 9/4

I was so excited and very happy to have Ashleigh share the start of my great Paris adventure!

Boarding the plane! I flew to Newark first and then joined my cousin for the LONG trip to Paris. I don't sleep much on airplanes and so arrived in Paris a little tired....but also thrilled to be there!

BUT

My luggage wasn't! It was still stateside. They promised it was on it's way and the would deliver it to the apt.

Not going to let it get me down! This is Paris and so I'll wear what I have on! I did have a change of clothes with me for the next day!

Of course I could see the Eiffel Tower!

from our street. We were super tired and took a walk but didn't go too far. My cousin is limited in her walking but is doing great so far!

Beautiful streets!

I forgot to mention the crazy traffic! We had booked a Taxi for our arrival (best thing we did) and he took us directly to our rental apt.

So glad I wasn't driving!

First dinner in Paris was Italian!

I know...but it was close and we both said it sounded good! I-Pupi on the Rue Malar was friendly and the lasagna was so good!

My first glass of wine in Paris!

All in all it was a great day!

Now if my luggage will just get here tomorrow!

Bonsoir!

Linda

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

The Dream Begins...

I woke up with one thought on my mind...

Paris!

My daughter Ashleigh arrived and helped me celebrate the last 24 hours of my countdown to Paris!

She had two more surprises for me!

So I don't have to worry about getting Euro's, she brought me enough to take care of me the first day! So thoughtful and this made me very happy!

The second (and last surprise she says...no more connected with this Paris trip) was this...

A small locket with mother & child on the front. Inside she put a lock of her hair....she will be with me in Paris! and yes I cried!

We had a special family dinner at a great seafood restaurant here in Athens called Square 1 Fish Co

We all had fish and it was wonderful. We shared a bottle of wine to toast my trip to Paris!

Taken with a cell phone but here I am ready to start my dream!

Here are my beautiful girls!

It was a great evening and a wonderful way to spend my last night before leaving for Paris!

So my friends I will be leaving in a few hours on my dream trip! The Next photos you see will be from Paris!

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Packing For Paris

Paris

After planning my flight schedule and renting the apartment, I think I've spent the next biggest chunk of planning for Paris trying to decide....

What Will I Wear??

I found this pink beret in the Spring and had to get it. I then decided I would do a mix n match wardrobe. I chose the colors, black, white, grey & pink.
I checked to see the average temps for early Sept are 70's in the daytime and 50's at night. Of course it can be hotter and I guess colder. Also there is always a chance of rain!

I found both of these light weight cotton tops with 3/4 sleeves. I can layer them over a tee or tank. I ended up finding all black pants. 1 pair of jeans, 2 capris and one pair of cargo pants that can be rolled up shorter if it gets warm.

Using mostly solids I have three scarfs to add color and interest to my outfits.

Grey, Pink & Black Tees, White over shirt and several tanks will add to the variety

I love this $5 WalMart scarf and find it blends with the white shirt or the grey sweater

This white sweater can be dressed up or down!

The plan is for 3 pair of shoes. Flip flops, nicer sandals and a pair of walking shoes. I love the black and pink one's but they are brand new and I'm still trying to decide if they are comfy enough to take or I'll go back to my older but more broken in white shoes.

This light weight jacket is one of the few items I did not buy new for this trip.

This bag will hold my daily spending money, camera, tissues, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and umbrella. I have a money belt for securing my passport, credit cards and extra cash.

I found there was much more to packing then just my clothes! Sleep mask, blow up pillow, and money belt will all be in my carry on. I also have converter plugs for my electronics.

My electronics include my camera, extra SC cards, telephone, Chrome book and Kindle ,and of course, a full bag of chargers will also be going!

My luggage for this trip. The pink case will be checked and the turquoise will be carried on with my electronics, personal items and a change of clothes...just in case!
Whew!
Of course there are nightclothes and underclothes but no need to 'share' those with you!
Our apartment will have a washing machine so that will help also. We can wash things and hang to dry.

Of course I'll have make up, shampoo, etc and I have a great hangup bag for that.

My guide book is ready along with my journal!

Charlie is starting to figure out someone is going somewhere and he wants to go also!
Sorry Charlie!

No passport for kitties!

My daughter Ashleigh will be here on Tuesday and will take me to the airport and see me off as I start this amazing trip which is a gift from her!
(If you don't know that story you should read it HERE)

I have all the wonderful advice and tips you all have given me ready to go. Just a few more days and this dream will be a reality!

I will take lots and lots of photos, journal, eat, look, see and soak in all that is Paris. My traveling companion my cousin Joletta is equally excited. We will meet in Newark, NJ and board our flight for Paris there. I can't wait!

Linda

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Come Fly With Me!

My friend Sue sent me a package today! She and her family flew to Paris last December and she had a few 'goodies' she wanted to share with me.

Photo Album, book and a map of Paris

which inspired this table

Come Fly With Me!

I love theses little thrifted Paris plates and added white, red and black to the place setting.

Sue sent me a few coins and my friend Carter gave me the paper Euro! I've got money now!!

My vintage red makeup case was perfect to add to this table. Sue also gave me a little AirFrance pouch with some socks, sleeping mask, toothbrush/paste and this Clarins set so I can get refreshed after my long flight!

I'll think I'm in First Class!!