A rainy Saturday.

I am continuing my transition here – mentally – and soon physically (think suitcases) for my return to the United States.

The rain is helping, as it is quite calming, and I have no plans today. Yesterday was a full day in Normandie, and I’m still sitting with that. Luigi by my side.

He’s been a very good boy, and didn’t hop the rail at all last night – or today, so far. It’s 1:11 as I type. A magical hour.

Make a wish.

I am mentally organizing my suitcases, thinking through the process of how I’m going to pack the additional French items I’ve collected for myself and my loved ones. Even though the kids are grown, I can’t help but get excited over buying things for them when I’m here. I think of them all the time. They are with me. Always.

Leaving Paris is always bittersweet – even though I cannot wait to see my kiddos! I hope my cat, Lulu forgives me again. And, I am looking forward to meeting my son’s new kitten, Gomez, upon my return.

What a trip this has been. Staying at a friend’s place in Saint-Paul (around the corner), an Airbnb (also around the corner), and finally, ending with a lengthy stay with my Luigi and family. All of that with the Olympics (!) thrown in and a trip to Amsterdam to see Taylor Swift. I don’t take any of it for granted. I’ve lived in Paris now for a total of just over 12 months. I know the city so well, that when I heard the tour guide giving advice and information about the city to an American, I was ready to chime in. There wasn’t one thing she mentioned that I hadn’t experienced or known about. How crazy is that!