“A Sunday Morning in Paris”
16″ x 20″ Acrylic on Canvas Resa Dance, Artist
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Sometimes dreams should remain just that: fanciful thoughts that don’t actually come to fruition. That’s how I felt about Paris. Although my heart soars at the mention of anything French, I never really planned to go there. With all of my carrying-on, French lessons, and images of Paris around the house, you’d think I was ready at any moment to catch the next flight to Europe. But secretly, I was afraid. I wouldn’t dare speak it, but I thought it was best to experience Paris from afar. Why? Well, I’m really not much of a traveler. And what if my beloved France didn’t live up to my expectations?
However, one Christmas morning, my family unwittingly called my bluff. After frivolously commenting that all I wanted for Christmas was a trip to Paris, that’s just what I got!
And so, the following spring I flew to Europe: Germany first, taking in Berlin’s unique vitality with my oldest son who lives there, then we flew to France together. Ah Paris! Not a bit of disappointment to be found, beautifully living up to its reputation as “the city of light.”
On a Sunday morning, with coffee and real French pastries in hand, my son and I sat in the blissful sunshine of the Jardin des Tuileries. Despite many people sauntering through the grounds, the atmosphere was remarkably quiet. Serene.
A friendly pigeon enjoyed our crumbs as we prepared to view the incredible impressionist and post-impressionist art at Musee d’Orsay. It was…..like a dream. But a dangerous dream, as it turns out. Because now I’m no longer content with the images of Paris decorating my house. Now I want to BE there. ALL the time.
Perhaps, deep down, that was my fear all along.
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