Day 5- Parading in Paris

Day 5

Paris. Do I need to say more? I had been looking forward to this day for a long time. I had been there before and absolutely loved it, but I wasn't sure if it would feel the same the second time. Although the newness of the city was gone, it was that same feeling of LOVE. Paris has a certain energy that is contagious. There are many things that draw people to it. It's busy, cheery, pretty, bustling, international and warm. Those words don't really do it justice, but I try my best. Although, I'm drawn to Paris' charm, I will admit that when we arrived back to Brussels, I felt relieved. To me, Paris does not feel like a home to live in. It is a town to see, make memories in and leave. The very things that draw people to it, could very easily steer them away. Enough ramblings for tonight...let me get on to our day.

We began our day on the speed train. It only took us 1 1/2 hours to get to Paris. It is a really fun thing to do. (The U.S. has really dropped the ball on this!) When we arrived we mapped out our plans for the day. We decided on the whirlwind tour! We tried to see as much as we could in one day. A lot of this time was spent in the metro getting from one place to the next.

A picture of us by the map!

After we figured out our plan, we began at Notre Dame. We even got to hear a local school choir sing some hymns inside. The music echoed throughout the church. It was wonderful.

After we got out of the metro

After we went to Notre Dame, we headed to the Eiffel Tower. Unfortunately when we arrived the top was closed. The wait for the elevator was ridiculous and Phil and I didn't really feel like climbing up all the stairs to go up to the part we had seen before. We decided to go take some pictures where we could see the whole building, and Lou Ann, Gary and Patrick decided to face all the stairs!

On the way to the Eiffel Tower

Amazing street that we found

After the Eiffel Tower, we took the the metro over the the Arc de Triumph. None of us had ever seen this or been to the top, so this was a completely new experience. Although you have to walk up even more stairs, it is totally worth it. The view from the top is amazing.

This picture looks so fake for some reason!
Inside the Arc
View from the top

After we finished at the Arc, we headed towards the Moulin Rouge area. We finished up some shopping there and ate dinner until we left for the speed train.

Gary bought some corn from a vendor on the road.
Phil and I in the streets.

Outside the Cathedral



In the scary trolley.
Saying goodbye to Paris

Overall, it was a great day. Although it was a whirlwind, we saw so many great things and made so many memories. We are so grateful for the opportunity to see so many of God's amazing earth!