PARIS

Chris and I slipped away for our delayed 10th wedding anniversary trip that we missed because I was VERY pregnant with Mr. Levi.  We figured a belated 10-year anniversary combined with our 11-year "golden" anniversary deserved something pretty special…and let me tell you, Paris fit the bill.  We arrived at night, and when we popped up from the underground Metro at the beautifully lit Pont Neuf bridge with the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the background I was shocked with how impressive it was.  The romantic charm of Paris certainly has not been overstated.  It is a magnificent city with architecture that delivers a visual feast that can rival the true delight of fine french cuisine.  Even better than the surroundings, was the company.  It felt so good to have some time to share with Chris.  Alone.  We kept laughing to ourselves as we wondered a few times if it was really that Paris is as cool as it seemed, or if Des Moines would have felt the same…because it was just so enjoyable and easy to travel with only two of us!  We walked well over 20 miles in two days.  We couldn't bear to go underground and miss out on the city…and more importantly we didn't want to waste the opportunity to embrace that we weren't carrying one kid, backpack, or stroller…we were diaper free, didn't have to keep track of any hotwheels or action figures or sippy cups.  We strolled hand in hand along boulevards and meandered through museums.  We enjoyed coffee and wine and long dinners.  Although our boys give us so much joy, it is always good for us to get away and enjoy some uninterrupted conversation.  I really love having my funny, loving, handsome husband all to myself.  I can't believe we've been married for 11 years already.  Thanks for being my best friend, Chris, and for loving me as I am.  Nothing could make me happier than spending my life with you.