One word...Paris!!

  

Paris!   Years ago we never would have thought we would be able to visit, but our Germany assignment has made it easier!   My mom, aka Nana, is visiting and her one request was to visit Paris.  It was 65 degrees and sunny- perfect for walking the city! 

The Eiffel tower was the highlight of the trip for the girls.  

And maybe just as exciting as the cotton candy!  

 The most fascinating place was the Notre Dame Cathedral.  There was such detailed beauty in the architecture, stained glass windows, and statues.  

We were able to visit Notre Dame during a Mass and the music was some of the most beautiful music I have heard!  A woman was singing prayers in French, and it was such a peaceful and reverent atmosphere. 

We took a fast speed train from Mannheim, Germany to Paris.  

At one point we were traveling at 312 kph!

 

We had a Mary Poppins moment in a park when a "bird lady" allowed Kayla to experience pigeons up close!

We also visited the Palace of Versailles,  where several French kings and queens lived.  The palace and gardens were full of grandeur and gold, and it was awesome to walk where King Louis XIV walked so many years ago.

Despite its grandness, the palace had many stories from history that were dark and harsh.  For example, in the bedroom of Marie-Antoinette was a small door where she escaped from French rebels who were storming the palace in 1789. So much more to tell about our trip, but not enough time!  Very blessed to be able to experience the "city of love".