foodie ventures: photo OP: PARIS

Of course we ate (a lot) in Paris, but we saw the sights, too.

We saw the Louvre by day and night. At night the lights of the juxtaposing glass pyramids and the grandiose historic palace bounced off of the still pools of water. It was lovely and still at night; the lights and laughter the only dynamics. By day, it bustled and moved with bodies, but we came to see the art.

After a delightful dinner, we walked to Arc de Triomphe and visited the tomb of the unknown soldier as the sun was setting in the city, striping the sky with cotton candy colors. It was a peaceful pause.

We waited longer than I care to admit for entrance to the Catacombs of Paris. Though the line was hot and grueling, longer and more arduous than anyone could have guessed, seeing the collection of bones was totally worth it. The cool air struck us as we entered the realm of the dead. We imagined the lives of these bones, stacked and sorted. It was haunting and beautiful.

At Musee D'Orsay we had to rush through the art, but our minds were tired. We were able to catch glimpses of Impressionist masterpieces and the works of artists outside of our passions. We discussed color and brushstroke while trying the fight the throngs of people.

The Rodin Museum was supposed to be a quiet refuge, a place to meditate in gardens and consider how heavy sculpture can embody movement and emotion. Instead, it was oppressively hot and more crowded than I would have liked. Seeing Rodin's evolution throughout his home was inspiring and riveting despite the hazy conditions.

Sacre Coeur is absolutely stunning, inside and out, above and below. Though I have seen the basilica on multiple occasions, I had never been inside. This time I was able to and so glad that I did. It is striking on the exterior-- tall, white, contrasting the blue sky boldly. Inside is magical, almost like time travel. The sheer size of the church is astonishing, but the feeling of veneration was more palpable. And then, on a whim, we went on the dome, where the climb (and sweat) was definitely worth the views.