THINKING OF PARIS

2007

Jul 31

Written By

By Dan Miller
July 9, 2007

No, not Paris Hilton -- I'm talking about the even better known Paris... the one in France.

Our very first night in The City of Light -- functioning on profound jet lag and an aching need for sleep -- we decided to take a three hour dinner cruise along the Seine River.
It's a delightful way to experience the beauty of the city, but I should've rested first.

Throughout our dinner and cruise, musicians serenaded us with classical selections as the floating restaurant navigated the beautiful Seine.
Following dessert, Karen and McKensie took a brief trip to the ladies room, while I stayed seated at our table, and FELL ASLEEP!
I abruptly awakened.... and for a few panicked seconds, had no idea where I was or what I was doing there!
Once I came to my senses, I tried to be as nonchalant as possible and pretend that I often sit with my head slumped forward.
Maybe those dining around us would just assume I was, perhaps, pondering my belt buckle.
I just hope I didn't snore or drool.
Perhaps you know the feeling!
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The first photo next to this essay was taken from atop the Arc de Triomphe, which -- with all due respect to the Eiffel Tower -- offers the best, most astounding views of Paris.
Part of the reason the view is wonderful is because the Eiffel Tower is INCLUDED in the view.
But, be advised, there are 284 steps up a steep, narrow spiral staircase to get to the top of the Arc.
I still have a little stiffness in my legs!
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As I looked at the beautiful, tree-lined streets of Paris, I couldn't help but ponder, what seems to be, the "search and destroy" mission by NES here in Nashville to cut the tops and sides off so many of our beautiful trees.
Somehow, the Parisians have found a way to get electricity and telephone service to homes and businesses, and still leave the trees intact.
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Of course, Paris lags way behind us when it comes to refilling your drinks.
If you ask for a refill in Paris, you're gonna pay for another beverage!
And there might just be an ice shortage there as well.
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Paris was lovely, the food was delicious, but -- even in that most beautiful of places -- in the back of my mind I was craving barbecue and peach cobbler, and a little Emmylou Harris music on the radio.