We recently spent a few days in Paris with a few of my siblings and parents to celebrate theΒ 21st birthday of my little sister who is studying abroad there (majorly jealous!). It was my third visit to ParisΒ and each time I am reminded that it is my favorite city in Europe. We arrivedΒ in the midst of theΒ terror attacks and we are so very sad for the French people, whose pain you could see and feel on the faces of everyone on the street. For those who asked, we felt extremely safe while we were there and there were police guards on every corner. One officer even asked to inspect my stroller which was covered with a blanket to make sure there was a baby in there.
Despite the sadness around us, we had such a wonderful time in this beautiful city. Oliver fared extremely well and basically napped through the whole city while we cartedΒ him around over cobblestones in his stroller. I know the pediatrician authors tell you not to do moving naps but he got muchΒ longer napsΒ than he ever gets lying flatΒ in his crib! I got reeeeally good at nursing in small corners at cafes so it was really no problem to bring a baby with us abroad, plus my siblings, parents, and husband were there to help. It was like he was just one of the pack! Every time we travel I am constantly reminded of what a good dad my husband is. He was constantly “on” with the baby, if you know what I mean, pushing the stroller and carrying it up and down stairs, keeping him warm, helping me nurse, and snuggling him in bed at night when he wouldn’t sleep. Also, the French people really love babies. I can’t tell you how many strangers got in his face and started squeezing his cheeks. So all in all it was great to have Oliver there.
Here are some of my favorite moments from the trip:
Asleep in Grandma’s arms in a Paris cafe. The life.
We are all Charlie.
Parisians leaving theΒ silent protest.
Evening strolls through the city.
Color inspiration for the house: emerald green and navy blue together! LOVE!
Cute cafes everywhere.
The most delicious calamari at Le Petit Prince.
Celebrating my sister’s birthday at Le Coq Rico in MontmartreΒ (HIGHLY RECOMMEND!)
Purple sky over the Seine (photo by my brother).
Family selfies around the city! We love doing our Rick Steves toursΒ together.
Oliver wanted a selfie too. :)
The view outside our hotel: the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night!
Packing up the van to go home! We may have doneΒ a little damage with all the soldes. Love traveling with family!
xoxo,