Hi MomDDTRavel, I'm looking forward to reading the rest of your report.

I remember your email trying to find a doctor for your daughter.

We live in Sydney Australia, and I know that feeling of a long, long flight. We fly to Bangkok first (about 8 hours) and then 16 hours approx to Europe. It's ok once we get going, but the anticipation is awful.

I love Paris trip reports. I'm looking forward to more!

Dawn, I was hoping you would write this up. I had a look at your photos yesterday and thought you were all having a great time.

More, please.

Anselm

Dawn, looking forward to more!

Dawn...

Looking forward to your report. I'm impressed you're on the ball with writing a trip report so soon. I just got back from Rome last Saturday and have barely started organizing my trip photos!

Thank you all!

Lowcountry - I am cheating a little. I did a blog for my family and loved ones to follow while we were in France - and I am taking some from there to remember...I would not be able to. I am suffering more then normal from Jetlag and think I have a bit of a stomach bug that has been going around.

Christmas Eve: I headed out to get something for "provisions" for the next few days. Oh what fun!

dd and ss were already out and having breakfast - the rest of the crew was sleeping soundly. I enjoyed the crisp (see: cold) morning air and the feeling on the streets. As I explored around I was delighted to find fresh markets already booming...(these were right on the corner on St. Germain) I saw a long line coming out of a bakery and knew that was the place to get my breads. I was certainly intimadated in the line with all the Parisians to say the least. I stumbled slightly forward knowing my one or two french phrases "do you speak english" being one!It was Eric Kayser at 8, rue Monge - it was WONDERFUL. I got a yummy "log" for Christmas Eve dinner for tonight.

I realize that it is a small delight but I confess to be thrilled with just walking about and picking up a few things here and there in all the shops.

There was no way that I was going to be able to get all I needed and carry it back myself - so I got enough for breakfast and headed back to the apartment.

Dh and I headed back out - this time with my large tote - NOW I was a real Parisian. Of course I was thrilled as people mistook me in my black slacks, sweater and coat for being French .

Wine is amazing here and such a fabulous price! Whole chickens, cheese, wine, bread, fruit, sausage... we are set for a few days .

Now... the issue is that we came back to a sleeping apartment...humm..to let them sleep or not? I think I shall for a while - we are wanting to go to midnight mass this evening so it is most likely a good idea!

dh, sd and I went out for a while - we never did find a Christmas market .

We strolled to the Notre Dame and kept walking over to the ice skating rink - hot wine, (love this!! could be a habit forming here)a sandwich and strolling about...

We had a wonderful dinner in. It was rather intersesting figuring out the appliances. It would have been helpful if the apartment came with a "book". I do not recall a rental ever not coming with one?

We headed out down to the Notre Dame around 9:00 or so - planning on going to a Christmas Eve Celebration. It was breath taking - the tree outside was lite up... I am almost in tears. Deep sigh. The lines sort of made me want to cry too. LOL We lined up and people were a little rude. Oh well - nothing to spoil our evening. It seems they let people in and out - not really sure on what is going on but we were let in after a short time in line and found a seat. The "celebration" was a bit of a let down.It was very dark and a sort of power point? I sort of napped and so did the children. At 11:00 pm we made the choice to move on. No midnight mass as planned. People were getting REALLY rude.

Walked around a little - more hot wine . Back to the apartment.

Joyeux Noël my friends and family!

It is definately different to be traveling on Christmas day.

The children were sleeping in. I had stockings I brought from home for them - to make it is a little more Christmas. I was going to buy a small tree but dh was a grump and felt that 40 Euros on a little tree was a waste. Bah hum bug.

dh went to church this morning again at the Notre Dame - to Mass this time. I kept waiting for the children to arise - nothing - I decided to venture out and catch up with dh.

We went to St. Severin - St. Nicolas - the organ was amazing! It was a beautiful morning but getting chiller.

We headed back to the apartment fully expecting to find the kids up - nope. dh napped and hung out a little while till we realized we needed to get them up - a very cranky set of girls - who were not happy we did not wake them up to go to Disneyland in Paris. We finally headed out and took the Metro over to the Eiffel tower. It was very crowded in that area. I was not digging it.

The Latin Quarter where we are staying has a nice feel to it - many different resturants, shops etc. The Eiffel tower was purely tourists and now I remembered why I had the wrong notion from our last trip that the French were rude. No, the tourists are rude! Pushing shoving..geeezz...

I do have a funny tip. You get off the main street Metro and there is a long line to get the tickets and go up the tower. I told the family to wait there and I went off to check out what the situation was. There was a much shorter line not too far away? I stopped at information and asked the nice man what the deal was? Why was the other line so much shorter? Was it different?

His reponse? Classic " Because people are STUPID, they get off the metro and get in que" LOLOLOL.

Alrighty then. I got the family and we waiting not very long to go up the to second floor. It was fun. What a treat - Eiffel tower on Christmas day It was also C-O-L-D. The wind had picked up and we were chilled. We hung out long enough to take in the view and the sparkling lights! Yeah!

Hungry - we headed back on the metro towards the Latin Quarter. There are a series of streets that I am sure someone out there knows the name of - cobble stone, with Greek Resturants, shops, etc. Breaking plates and everything! We had an amazing Greek meal - wonderful food and service - OPAH! Music...VERY festive!

I will also add that I have read a lot that it is hard to find a resturant or anything open on Christmas in Paris? Not sure where those people have been but there were many choices for food - many - and even some shops open. I was able to go into one of the small stores by the apartment and get some staples. I will say having 6 persons in the apartment we are powering through things - no costco in sight .

dh, the girls and I headed back to the apartment. ss and his friend of course stayed out. I told them that no such luck tomorrow for sleeping in...I am going to wake them up and we are going to Versille .

au revoir for now!

Dawn

Dawn,

Am loving this report-I plan on doing a trip similar to this next December after Christmas-12/27-1/3-so we will be there during New Year's and I plan on renting an apartment as well (first time renting apt.). I love Air France-it still feels civilized somehow (even in coach)...

It will be my husband and I and by then 15 year old daughter and 7 year old son...

I was laughing about Disneyland Paris because I know the kids would love to go but dh and I could take it or leave it (since we've all been to WDW and Disneyland in CA)-we could probably be broken down except I believe its crazy crowded that time of year-although we definately plan on taking them to Versailles...DH and I have been to Paris before several times including once with our daughter and adore it...

Flights to Europe aren't so bad for us (6 hours ?)since we live outside of Philadelpha so we have access to Newark but someday we will probably be crying as I'd love to go to China and Thailand and I know the flight will be miserable for us...

Yum hot wine outside Notre Dame-did you skate?

I'm sorry about your "pushy"experience at Notre Dame... You know I've never found Notre Dame to be my favorite church in Paris-although it is fun to climb to the top and see the bells and gargoyles..._it is magnicent but very dark and a little dreery to me) St. Chapelle is so beautiful and there is something deeply moving about St. Severin...

Anyhow keep it coming...fun reading...

Patricia

Hi Jennifer,

Thanks for reading . We did not skate - I will share more on that but when the kids went back to skate there was a hole in the ice. One thing I am going to do is just do it next time. We were there and the line was not too long but for some reason decided to come back? I cannot recall why? And when they did there was a hole in the ice.

One thing I did was have each person in the family write down 3 or 4 things that they really wanted to do in Paris while we were there to try to accomplish it. The girls had Disney Paris - I LOVE Disneyland - we live 20 minutes away and have passes and it just seemed like a waste of time and money to go. I know they were bummed though.

I went to Thailand in 2003 (I think that was the year?) it was a long flight from here too!

I grew up in Cherry Hill area of NJ outside of Philly and we still come back often.

Do you have your apartment yet?

Enjoying your report. Your delight in doing small, homelike things is so fun to hear. And sharing Christmas with family away from home is somehow more special IMO.

Thank you so much Julie. I have to say that was the special part of this trip - very small things - that I took pleasure in. Yes, the Eiffel tower was special, yes, Notre Dame was amazing..but going to the market - well that ranked high for me .

I will say that when we get to the days when I saw the art in Paris - I was close to weeping. :'(

Dawn,

We don't have an appt. yet-I thought we had time yet for December-does it get crazy busy for rentals? (we haven't done a rental yet-usually hotels but now with a 7 & 15 year old and staying over New Years-we thought it made more sense in addition to meal flexibility-we love eating out but being able to breakfast in and make some meals in with the 7 year old-I loved living vicariously through your food shopping description-I want to buy bread and cheese and wine and pastries too... Do we need to book now :-0

We are going to Mexico for a week in March and I was going to book Paris apt after that...?

(So you used to live in NJ-well you can understand my mouth dropping 5 years ago when I saw the Pacific in California and I turned to my husband and said "I can never go back to the Jersey beaches to swim again...-we've been to Ca three times-San Fran, Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, LA, San Diego-and Disneyland and every time I was on/by beach-I almost wept...)

Sorry for the digression...back to our regularly scheduled program...

Do I need to make Paris apt ressies a year out?-and btw can you mention the names of restos you went to if you remember?

Thanks and more please...

Hi Jennifer,

Been a busy day but I will write more later - I promise.

Regarding the rental - I booked our apartment in Feb of 2008 because of the size I was looking for (a real three bedroom) and knowing that is hard to find in Paris. There is a lovely 2 bedroom that I highly recommend that was recommended to me that I wanted to rent but it was not available for the full 10 nights - the owners were wonderful people though and willing to work with me on letting me use another apartment they had in the 3rd district - but we did not want to move in the middle of the stay.

I will find the link to that apartment. It is in the 1rst and a few on this board have rented it. I liked the left bank more then the right - but that was just a personal preference from someone who is no expert!

I do recommend a man named Michael Orsman if you would like a guide one day. He is a man from Philly actually who has lived in Paris a long time and is a favorite on this board and the AOL paris board. I know again, that several here can vouch for him. He is amazing with the city and with people (children as well). I will get you both the apartment that I really wanted and his information.

~dawn

Here is the apartment - they have another one as well which is less expensive also smaller in the 3rd. Really nice owners. http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p143450

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p210013

That is there other one.

December 26 ~

It was COLD today.

We ventured out to take the RER to Versailles and felt the cold wind right away...

We got on the wrong train - but made it there no issues once we got on the right train - had lunch in McDonalds (stop lol) I think it cost us just as much as having lunch in a cafe would have though. Note to self on that one. The kids seemed to enjoy it.

The que was long to get tickets to Versailles but we had Museum passes. Please note that many of the museums are free to students - having said that I was not sure if they would still have to wait in line to get a "ticket" so I went ahead and spent the money on the passes to avoid the line. I am glad I did..the line was long and most likely because it was the day after Christmas the palace was crowded -

Have I mentioned I hate crowds?

Okay..moving right along - the French have done something interesting to the amazing paintings and art work in Versailles that I would love to understand more. They have a showing of a "modern" artist that is smack in the middle of almost every exhibit. Color me stupid but I simply did not get it. ??(Jeff Koons I believe? There is another post going on on this)

We ventured through the lovely palace and then onto the gardens which would I am sure be far more enjoyable in weather that was above "feels like 24 degrees" - my face actually felt a little frozen.. yup - seriously.

ss and his friend wanted to continue on in the gardens - dh and the girls and I went to a Starbucks (yes, I still love my starbucks even in France) and sat down and warmed up!

Back to the train we went - oh wait - chaos of some sort has ensued... people getting on and off trains - announcements coming in french that we do not understand... ? dd states "I feel like I am in the holocaust being shoved around on trains, can we PLEASE take a taxi???" Only my daughter. (another note to self: stop making dd study the holocaust perhaps enough is enough)

We finally got home on a VERY crowded standing room only train where *I* started to feel like a cow being herded as well... a French man who reminded me of Steve Buscemi was talking to himself or me. I never did figure it out - but he was VERY amused with himself and often just started laughing..after a while it became down right creepy. He reached into his front pocket and slowly pulled out..... his wallet. LOL Surely it was a gun I thought.

We did manage to make it to our stop all in one piece - although I was not sure where ss and friend where - they keep trying to distance themselves from us (gee - surprise in that? 18 year old boys in Paris - not wanting to "be" with the dorky woman who looks like she is 700 pounds in all her layers, the whiny 11 year old who has blood shot eyes - and Frank who looks like the Michelin tire with his puffy jacket...)-

Norte Dame - I sent Frank back to the apartment with dd (who I forgot to mention had been up since 2:30 am - yes, that is correct - 2:30 am - love Jetlag NOT) Okay..where was I? Oh yes, so I sent dd and dh back while 15 year old dd and I went to a grocery store. This was more of a store then I had been able to find - and less expensive as well. I will think of the name of it - I ended up seeing several in the areas.

Picked up pasta to make for dinner - stopped at another market for my fresh roasted chicken and then onto the produce. I think this might be what I have enjoyed the most - shopping at the markets! I love it.

Made dinner and had to wake everyone up - literally. Not good. Very cranky family.

They wake up slowly and painfully - I am determinded to not let dd go to bed before 8:00 pm or else the saga will continue.

Dh, and the boys went out on the town for the night. As I shared before I am simply not a go out at night kind of gal. I know B-O-R-I-N-G. Dh got in LATE and the boys later - they had a BLAST.

The plan tomorrow is to get the girls up and go to breakfast at the place we stayed at on our last trip here -Hotel Du Lourve in the first district. They has the MOST amazing french toast in the world... (I think so!) and then go to the Louve. Afterwards to hit the Christmas market on the Champs-Elysées which is supposed to be there till 12-28.

We are definitely all enjoying the aspect of slower travel. I like having the apartment to spread out in.

I believe we have decided there is enough to do in Paris - so rather then spend the cash on the train tickets to go far away - to enjoy more right here. We shall how that feels on Monday or Tuesday.

Hope everyone had a merry merry Christmas!

December 27
Well, I have focused on the positive up until (mainly) which of course is not easy for someone who can see her cup as half empty cracked and leaking at times (I read that saying once and could certainly relate!)...

I am sort of grumpy this morning (yes, one can get grumpy even in Paris)so I thought a good time to share the not so bright parts of our trip thus far -

1. Our apartment has all wood floors - nice right? NOPE - you hear every creak and sound of anyone walking. That includes the people above us who dd said "Were really playing around last night - "growling" at each other" You go with that...

2. Jetlag. Okay - I honestly do not remember being as messed up last time we "crossed" the pond and frankly we went through a lot more to get here (some will recall our trip to Europe in June/July of 2007 by way of Santiago Chile putting us at over 24 flight hours to get to Paris and about 48 real hours so maybe we were just SO messed up it did not feel this bad???)Anyways - we all are just a little off. dd of course esp. she is up and wired and then crashes out... and she is sharing a room with older dd so that creates stress on J's sleeping... I woke up today at 5:00 am and walked out and ss was up (he had NEVER been to sleep - that is another rant for another day) and dd was looking like she belonged perhaps in Twilight...a little goulish with pale skin and a tint of blue under her eyes - yikes.

3. Honestly...that is it. Wow...guess it is not that bad??? The best part is definately being in the same place and not worrying about jamming everything into three days in one country. I know it can be overly tempting once you get to Europe to fill in as much as possible (btdt on our last trip) but as I have mentioned one of my delights with this trip is shopping at the market (although it makes me miss my Mom as I know how much she would relish in the simple act as well - Do we all really become our Moms at some point in our journey???)... I love the Latin Quarter. I have read it is packed in the summer and unpleasant - I have not experienced that at this point. The most crowded we have been (outside of the train last night LOL) was over by the Eiffel tower. A part of me is feeling a little guilty for not getting "things" checked off the list but truly just having a meal, drinking the amazing cheap wine, people watching..it is all what I like to absorb.

I can see how people fall in love with France...the only thing I am itching to do is see another part of the amazing country but alas that might have to be for a future trip..just sshhhhhhhhhh don't mention it to dh - he knows I am not happy unless I am on a trip, or planning one!

December 27 continued

I got up early with the girls and headed out to the Hotel De Louvre. We stayed there in June of 2007 and J (15 year old dd) LOVED the french toast so we promised her that she could have it again. dh called the night before to be sure they were still serving the same breakfast - because he and the boys had been out late - it was just the girls and I.

We got to the metro and it is was a bit of an adventure. Once again we boarded the wrong train going in the wrong direction...LOL We jumped off - re boarded and were off again!

It was down right cold in the morning. One thing that I have noticed is how sleepy Paris is in the morning. It appeared that a couple was just HEADED home from a night out... we exited the Metro right at the Louvre. BUSY in this area (1st district) - TOURISTS!

Breakfast was comical. The hotel is packed with tourists and and the staff seems slightly frustrated. (understatement)There was actually NO french toast. So our expensive breakfast (see: 85 Euros that I made a face at and the waiter reduced it to 55 Euros??) with rude staff was not what we had planned for.

Off to the Louvre. I could spend hours writing about our time there. I was completely overwhelmed by the most of art and the building itself. We spent several hours and I could have stayed all day.

The girls were having a different time LOL... so off we went.

We boarded the Metro to go and find the Christmas Markets. Now, I have wanted to go to Germany and see the authentic markets - and was VERY excited to see these... sort of a bust. Very cheesy..not authentic. Mostly all made in India I think.

We grabbed a cab back as 11 year old dd was hitting a wall again. She is getting sick (gee shocker for those that know how she gets sick often when we travel) and was very tired. The cab was easy and we arrived back at the apartment - dd was sleeping before I could count to 10.

The guys headed out as we were coming in - sort of a drag that we were on different schedules.

I spent the afternoon reading, playing on line and just relaxing as the girls slept.

I headed out to the pharmacy to get some drugs for dd. Hopefully they will help her get better - and walked around the Latin Quarter. As I was wandering about - the church bells were ringing and there was a huge crowd gathered - the French Military had their swords up and a lovely bride and groom immerged from the church - pure elegance - what a difference a French bride and groom as opposed to our garish brides and weddings - it was a time warp - all the women in hats and skirts even though it was 23 degrees!

15 year old dd and I headed out when dh came home - 11 year old dd was still not feeling well - we took the Metro down to St. Germain and strolled about - anytime I see a old cathedral I have to go in... so I drug Julianna in - and there was another Christmas market still up - again, mostly made in India. So no purchases were made.

We strolled and found an Italian Restaurant to dine in - it was nice to have dinner with just 15 year old as we do not get that opportunity often -

Back home and called it a night - I finally slept all night ! Yeah! But unfortunately Miss Tessa was up again at 3:00 am. Hopefully she will be able to stay awake longer today. It is a brutal cycle.

Sunday December 28
Musée d'Orsay, Catacombs, American Hospital in Paris...
Alrighty then. What family trip would be complete with out My dd needing medical attention?

Well..yesterday started off fabulous - we headed out to the Musee d' Orsay - we had our museum passes but there was still a bit of a line. dd was not feeling well and honestly it was BITTER cold yesterday - even the Parisians felt it. I had a few people try to cut the line. I think the Massive Momma bear came out in me as I not so gentely pointed out where the LONG line began.

The Muse d' Orsay was a dream... I wish my Mom was here with me. Growing up with copies of Monet's on the wall...and Paul Cézanne... to see the ORGINALS?? A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. I had the same reaction as I did when I had the privilege of seeing the David in Florence. I wanted to weep... but was quickly brought back to reality of my family wanting to keep on moving - LOL.

We spent a few hours there - I think someday I would almost like to come back alone or with my Mom. To just wander about for hours without worrying about everyone else being happy...

We had lunch across the way from the museum. Was not any place I would recommend but we had the feeling going in that it would be less then desired as many places are that so close to main attractions.

dd was fading fast - I sent the rest of the crew off to the Catacombs and dd and I headed back to the apartment for her to rest - her eyes were glassy and she was once again looking like she stepped out of the pages of Twilight with a bluish tint under her eyes and a very pale pallor.

I gave her what I got at the pharmacy and started to research where to get a Dr. for her. Thanks to this board!!! I was able to figure out to take her to the American Hospital in Paris. I waited on dh but they did not get here and her breathing was getting really wheezy... I had no phone (note: we purchased two cell phones to use in Europe and they worked wonderful - I will share information on them) (mistake was that dh had my phone on him and the boys had a phone on them)... I tried to go down and make a call on the street to no avail.

I woke dd up and took her to get a cab - she was NOT a happy camper.

It was a LONG ride in the traffic and a crazy French Cab driver who was cursing and carrying on the entire way.

We finally arrived at the American Hospital in Paris to be told that they would not treat her in ER because she was not an adult?? I thought I might cry. The nurse I think took pity on me and said she would go and look for a Pediatrician. A few moments later a French man appeared and whisked us back to his office.

He was very charming and kind - He did an exam and a throat culture - and she has a bacteria infection and he felt she was close to pneumonia. He was able to give me enough antibiotics for the night and got us a cab. Cost? 120 Euros for the entire visit. Amazing. Paid him cash and all was said and done...

Okay..almost.

On the cab ride home dd kept saying "I am feeling car sick" Now...to know dd is to know dd is ALWAYS car sick. I just kept saying 'lay down sweetie", "try to relax"... about half way she says "PARDON MONSUIRE" I realize she is fully going to throw up. (sorry) ...I say "pull over please" (loudly) He swerves the car over - she hops out and retches in a violent fashion ALL over the sidewalk --- many many times. Oh my. The cab driver appears to be leaving..WITH my bag?? I run to the car and he assures me that he was just pulling forward. Okay... he bravely allows us back in the car and we made it home..

There is a note on the door from dh saying he had no key to get in..to call him. I wonder with what??? LOL

dd rests and finally dh and older dd it home about an hour or so later. They had been waiting for us at a nearby restaurant watching for us to get home - could not see us in the cab.

They loved the catacombs and I do recommend it to anyone traveling with tweens or young teens.

LONG day in Paris. I know that many would say "you do not want to be sick in another country."

I would say you would want to be sick in Paris more then in the USA.

The cost of her 3 prescriptions this morning? 15.00 Euros total. No joke. So for 135 Euros total she had an ER visit and three prescriptions. Hummm..maybe Michael Moore in Sicko was onto something eh? Come on Obama -- do something for our healthcare!

Monday - December 29
dd is still not doing well. dh elieves he may have the stomach flu - boy are you all still wishing you were here??? Didn't think so.

This afternoon older dd I headed out to a flea market I read about in the 18th district - in a Fodors guide book - I thought that would be a fun way to start out the afternoon -- or not?

The cab took a long time and as we cruised along I noticed we were in the "hood"... different element of people, shops, etc then I had seen in Paris thus far.

Keep going and frankly it is not getting any better. Not seeing many if any tourists. Okay - getting a little nervous... (I am a nervous nelly anyway)

Okay... we get to an area and the cab driver says "this is it" Not what I had envisioned as a French Flea Market - this was more like the swap meet in a REALLY bad area.

The cab driver who speaks no English but this "PICKPOCKET" "WATCH" "PICKPOCKET" I asked in English if this was safe and he kept saying "PICKPOCKET" okay.

We get out and cross the street and start to walk towards the "market" area...okay. Well, I am VERY nervous in my Gucci scarf and long black coat with the fur trim. dd has her camera around her neck and the area is SWAMPED with people that are eyeing us up and down and I look at Julianna and she said "let's go" .

I agree 100 percent but um..where to? I saw a Metro up the way as we were driving in... sigh. I said to dd "put your camera under your scarf, do NOT speak English at ALL, and keep your eyes straight ahead" I held onto my bags with both hands in front of me and we started walking towards the Metro I think I saw.

Two guys crossing the busy street eye us and turn around to follow us (seriously) - not a good sign. My blood level is getting higher, I am cursing Fodors guide book under my breath and keep saying quietly "stay close to me, do not look at anyone, keep your eyes straight ahead" as we were approached by several and the guys are now one on each side of us.

I saw a "Taxi" sign ahead "YEAH"! "NOOOOOOOO...." They are all lined up but not one person is in the driver seat of ANY of them??? I cannot believe this.

Finally was see one guy but he won't open the locks?? I said "Please" in french he opens the door and we got in.

Thank goodness.

Adventures always add to a trip no?

Off to the Champ d’Ellyse - the first area I thought of. We got there quickly - my how fast a neighborhood can change.

I had my first experience making a purchase for myself at the Hermes store. Yes, I did. Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas to me. I delighted in every aspect of being shown the lovely scarves and sampling the different ways to tie them. I am thrilled with my purchase. I asked the truly beautiful woman if she knew of this area and she smiled gently and said "That is not for the privileged" I am not sure how that would translate. I asked "Bad area no?" She repeated "Not for the privileged" . Interesting translation again I thought.

dd and I strolled a little - it remains bitter cold in Paris. We took the Metro back to our area of the Latin Quarter (and seem to have figured out how NOT to take the wrong way) and had a good home cooked meal from America http://www.breakfast-in-america.com

Something so funny happened. We walked in and got a table - I do not recall if there was any speaking to the waitress/hostess. She came over and said "hi" and sounded SO American - I must have given her a funny look because she started to speak in French and then I said "Are you American?" and she said 'Oh you speak English, I thought you might but you looked at me so funny when I said "hi" that I thought "oh no, I have offended her - she is French" LOL - She is a grad student from Seattle.

AMAZING food. Seriously. They even had Ranch dressing for dd - she beamed and we discussed Twilight and laughed about our "adventure".

Came back with take out for dd and dh - dd a few bites and went back to bed..and dh was not up to eating. If you all know my husband he is SICK if he is not up to eating.

The boys and older dd headed out to go ice skating. BAM strike out again. They came home to say it was closed due to a hole in the ice?

I am headed to bed soon - I fear it will be a long night -

Tuesday December 30
ss decided he wanted to stay in today - so dh, older dd and friend and I headed out this afternoon. ss stayed with T who remains under the weather.

I had wanted to go to the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Catherine Laboure The Sain of Silence. We found it through the Metro - and asking around once we got off in the 7th district. I seemed to like the area that we were in... I have seen apartments in the 7th and could consider that for a future stay.

I am SO thrilled we got to the Chapel. It was beautiful and I encourage you to google it and read about her. Amazing.

After we headed back on the Metro to go to Les Invaldes. When we got off - it was SNOWING in Paris!!!! It was incredible!!! Snow in Paris. The museum was great. I highly recommend it - It was without a doubt dh favorite museum. He loved the war history. I loved the WW11 area.

Headed home after having some French Onion soup and crepes.

dd was resting and we had a good day. I hope she is feeling better tomorrow.

New Years Eve in Paris...

Happy Happy New Year. No, I am not out in the streets of Paris whooping it in. Truth is, even if the family was healthy right now - I have to admit - it is not my style. Well, it WAS my style in days.

I have been having a hard time sleeping at night due to dd and dh being sick. And found myself just waking up at 10:30 am or so this morning LATE - and everyone but dd had gone out to breakfast at the American Dinner in Paris. dd and I hung out a bit - she was still not doing very well.

dh brought us back breakfast and Miss T was happy to have pancakes and whip cream .

older dd and I headed out to do some shopping. Oh boy!

We went to the Bon Marche and realized it was a little high ticket for us (I had my one and only splurge the other day!) We also went to the La Octaine which was fabulous.. which was right across the way. Note that they opened a spa there in the fall. That might be nice But the neatest place I went? This Grocery store (I hate to even call it that) next to Bon Marche - OMG... I could have spent HOURS there... it was utterly amazing. Bon Marche La Grande Epicerie. I do think I would like to stay in the 7th next time.

We headed back on the Metro to drop the bags and to press on shopping. We went to the local shops and were able to pick up the gifts I had wanted to get. Just little stuff - scarves, chocolates, some champagne.

Back to the house again - The girls both got themselves lovely rings with the money they brought with them. I was happy to see them purchase something that could last them - rather then 100 cheap things.

I hope they hold onto them and remember the trip to Paris.

We went out for a NYE dinner at a fabulous little Chinese place that was recommended to me off the this board. Wow! Is all I can say - the meals were around 6.50 E and it was amazing food! I do not think I have ever had better Chinese food (seriously).

La Rose De Sommerard.6, Rue Du Sommerard

We toasted Thin who gave the recommendation. Tessa DID join us - and did okay through dinner but was fading by the end of it.

ss and friend hit the town of course headed out on the town - they want to be in the thick of it as any 18 year old would want to be.

Everyone was sound asleep - until midnight when dh woke up to a party that was in our building and came out to slow dance and give me a New Years Kiss in Paris. We watched the New Year come in in London and I decided to go there next NYE

Boys made it back around 1:00 am - they had a blast.

New Years Day...last day

New Years day I was not feeling too great and sent dh and the kids (sans T) off to explore while I stayed home with T - who was doing much better but it was bitter cold out in Paris.. They went to Montramare (sp) and dh loved it! He said it was VERY "Paris" with the hills, the artists etc.

dd and I did go out a bit - down by the Notre Dame again as she wanted to get a few more items. I had not seen it as crowded as we did that day. Oh my goodness, many many European Tourists being dropped off from tour buses.

We shopped a little - it was very cold.

For dinner we went to a local Italian place. There was a place on the corner that had been recommended but had been closed the entire holiday. We ended up across the street and the meal were just okay.

Heading back - the guys went to a Canadian pub where they watched the Rose Bowl etc... fun for them!

I am really enjoying your report!

I had to laugh though as we have a friend who got sick in Paris as well. The poor guy had to hit every garbage can on the street that he could find. So be glad that dd just did it that once, lol!

I bet snow in Paris was perfect It sounds beautiful!

Jan. 2

SS friend was leaving really early - ss walked him to the RER and he took it to the airport. No issues. He took the extra phone with him. We did not leave until 4:00 pm.

The caretaker of the apartment was a little of a downer. He was rude and told me I had to be out at 8:00 am? I pushed back and he said 9:00 am - I said okay. In the meantime I got an email from Stacey, from the rental company asking if I would not mind being out by 10:00? So I said, great, please just let Henry know as he was saying 9:00.

He still showed up at 9:00 and sort of insisted that I be ready to leave. I think he must clean the apartment himself and he had another check in.

I pushed back and said we would be ready to leave at 10:00.

We leave the apartments very clean as I am always worried about getting my deposit back (this was a high one 500.00) - he was pretty rude.

We left our bags downstairs (Stacey had said we could) and had breakfast down the street at the American Diner again. I am sad to be leaving.

It is snowing!! Really hard this time and even sticking a little.

Cold but neat!

Same shuttle service picked us up - took us to the airport - no issues. Got checked in - and waited for our flight home.

Sad.

Some thoughts:

AirFrance was wonderful. I have only flown American Airlines and Airfrance on international flights and the difference is worth noting. I was very impressed with Aifrance. Free flowing wine, a lot of food, many snacks, tvs with every seat (this was of course in coach, with all the movies you can watch), great service over all. I highly recommend them. I know that many of you, like myself travel on miles - and American Express transfers into Delta miles and you can use them for Airfrance flights.

Our apartment was in the Latin Quarter, at 16 Rue des Ecoles. It was rented through VBRO #112368. It is a "real" 3 bedroom, but would not be a great for 3 couples. It would good for a family -
pros:
location - we loved the left bank and the location so close to St. Germain and to the Notre Dame and several Metros was fabulous.
Rental Agency - Stacey was great - easy to work with using Paypal from the states to pay
Size - good size for the location and the price
Elevator - there is an elevator (small of course) if you want to avoid the stairs
Washer/dryer for small items

Cons:
The wood floors made a LOT of noise and you could hear everything. Limited amount of privacy due to this.

The caregiver that Stacey works with was difficult -


Food - We did not have any fabulous dining experiences like many who go to Paris. Due to the high number of people with us - we ate in bistros and cafes and less expensive places. We had a great meal at the Rose de Sommerland. It was a small Chinese place on Sommerland that was recommended off the Fodors board. It was excellent. We often ate in and enjoyed that as well.

Metro - GREAT! I do not think we ever fully figured out how to make the most of it cost wise - there are less expensive passes etc.

Museums - PLEASE get a Museum pass! You will quickly forget the extra cost as you breeze past the que lines - seriously - I cannot over state this. Even though many would be free for the children, we purchased the pass and I have not one moment of regret. We did the four day pass and used it every one of those 4 days. It was a little tricky with the holidays falling during our stay.

Weather - it was cold. Period. I did not bring long underwear for myself and should have. So should have dh. dh has said he would not go back when it is as cold as it was. I would. There was something special about it...cannot put my finger on it. It rained, snowed, the sunshined...

Medical treatment - dd had to go to the Dr. I ended up taking her to the American Hospital in Paris because it was a Sunday night. I think I could have taken her to any hospital in retrospect. They told me they could not treat her in ER because she was under 18? Okay. They ended up with someone there who could see her. There is a number you can call and have a Dr. come to your house - Michael Orsman (amazing tour person) said it is the Magic Dr. LOL http://www.sosmedecins-france.fr/

Cell phones: We purchased two phones from http://callineurope.com/

Phones worked great. The cost for the two phones and lines was 100.00 total with shipping. You pay as you go on your credit card.

mms - you are going to have SO much fun with your dd this summer. VERY exciting.

Dawn--I agree, Air France is great. On our flight over last time, we did not have the individual tv screens, but we did on our return flight. For this trip, we transferred miles from AMEX to Continental and booked via them. Our flight over will be on AF, but we will be on CO coming home. Last time we did not get the museum pass, and didn't need it. Only at the Orsay was there a line. Other places we were able to just walk right up. I think much just depends on luck. We have AT&T cell service, so just took our usual phones and used those. Hardly used them, but will do the same thing time around.

mms - unfortunately we have sprint - so we had to get the phones. We had no phones on our first trip to Europe. I researched these phones for the trip I planned to take with dd last fall. I am glad we had them and hope I get to use them again!

How long are you going for again?

Lucky you no lines! I guess Christmas week really had Paris packed because the lines were VERY long every place we went...

Dawn, thanks for the full report. Was thinking of you and saw the panic'd post, 'need a dr in Paris'. Glad it didn't ruin your trip!

I am posting quickly since I'm supposed to be doing something elsw I have more comments later...but Dawn I think we are related somehow...

1. I'm drooling over the apts ....the second one in the Marais is more in price range and I love the location...just trying to think about food shopping-the 6th is so good for that...DH really wants something on Ile St Louis/Ile de la Cite if possible...(more on that later...)

2. I hate crowds too-they space me out and make me all wiggy-but I will deal with them if it means Paris over the holidays...it seems as if being up and about early to attractions is a good strategy...

3. I am always planning a trip...I find it theraputic...planning is half the fun...right now planning Spring trip to Mexico but already thinking ahead to December...

4. My dd is always carsick (14-she'll be 15 by December)...I am so sorry about your daughter getting sick but I could so see that whole cab incident happening to us...I hope your daughter is better now (oh-and isn't twilight its own sub culture?)

5. Right there with you on Starbucks...I know the French prefer to not take away their coffee and in theory I totally agree with them but there is something really nice (especially when its cold) about those nice white and green papered cups...It sounds like it was way too cold at
Versailles but did you walk into the town at all...?

I plan on rereading this whole post a little later...am loving it...

Dawn--We are going for just a week this time. I didn't want to leave DH and DS for too long. The first time we went to Paris, we didn't go in the Louvre because the line was so long. But last time the line was maybe 10 people, if that and it moved fast. If the lines are long this summer, we will do a pass, but I will wait and see. I will definitely do the Forfait Loisier (sp?) for Versaille though.

mms - you will love it.

Surfmom - thank you for taking the time to read.

Jennifer - ahhh.. LOL - I swear travel is cheaper then long term therapy and far more gratifying.
I was giggling at your points.
Where in Mexico are you going? Dh and I have a trip planned to Cabo this May - I think we are going to cancel it though (airmiles and timeshare but not a good time for us).

Thanks for your lovely trip report. Any photos?

The last line of your first post mentions Notre Damn!!! Funniest sp I've seen in a while LOL!

I feel for you having a sick child and a sick dh in Paris; how frustrating but at least you had the apartment for down time.

I used to bribe my kids to "enjoy" museums and art galleries and after years of "conditioning" a la Pavlov they now ask to visit these places and sometimes I'm ready to leave before they are.

Paris is always beautiful and snow is like icing on the cake!

sassy - LOL - I am one of the worlds worst spellers

Here is a link to the photos

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=14600&l=2ea19&id=1069860504


http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=13684&l=67815&id=1069860504

Dawn:

You were forewarned about the long underwear.....

The apt had a great location and am glad you all had a wonderful trip in spite of a few glitches.

Weekender - do you know how many times I thought of you and your warning?? LOL

Dawn:

By the way, I am going to Newport the last weekend of this month to "thaw out" from Chicago. One of my L.A. friends is coming down and thinks we should go on a mission to track down those nasty housewives. Be advised.

well weekender - if you need a tour of their homes - please just let me know - if you want to get "into" Coto all you have to say anyway is "Sports park" (little league uses it), Equestrian Center, or the club. The gate just lets you through.

I thought of this because of another thread. I purchased a pair of boots to take with me to Paris. I live in Southern California and it does not get cold here so I really had no great footwear. I LOVED my boots.

My feet were never cold or wet. Dh's were often. I also have a very bad back and not once did my feet hurt or my back.

http://www.lacanadienne.ca/en/collections/fall-winter-2008/footwear/emilia

Thanks Dawn:

Perhaps we should make appointments with Jeana to look at houses and Vicki to buy some insurance.

Not so much......

Dawn:

I'll toss a saddle in the back of the car.

Weekender - you could come and look at my house - on the golf course and currently listed

Great report, MomDDTravel.

If it's any consolation, there has been a MAJOR epidemic of the intestinal flu in Paris (as well as some other parts of France) for a month already.

Also, we are having the coldest winter so far in about the last 5 or 6 years. For the previous two winters, temperatures did not get below freezing during the entire winter for more than about 36 hours.

As I write, there is still snow on the ground from a week ago, and that is EXTREMELY rare -- the last time I saw that was in the 1980's.

Do I have to buy it?

Weekender - no, why would you be any different from the other people that parade through with no intention of buying it? LOL


kerouac - I was wondering about how cold it was - as I did do research and I knew it could get cold but was not expecting it THAT cold. Michael Orsman shared the same with me... I still managed to fall 100% in love with your city and am still suffering from what I am calling PPD Post Paris Depression.

Dawn:

I will be at the Marriott at Fashion Island and we thought we might go to Laguna or somewhere down there for lunch. Any suggestions appreciated. Sat, Jan. 31st. Would love to have you join us if you are free. On me, of course. Will send you an email closer to the date.

Please do send an email. I have stayed at that Marriott. We have gone away local using points - a ton when the kids were smaller and longer trips were either not in the buget or to hard with baby sitting.

There are many wonderful places to eat in the Laguna area - there is
http://www.lasbrisaslagunabeach.com/
Which I do not recommend for the food but the view is lovely and sitting outisde if always fun.

I am moving that week (the first week in Feb) but would love to try to get together. Please do email. I won't be bringing any of the housewives though

Shall do.

Dawn, do you live in Newport ? I was just there! (I think while you were in Paris).

Weekender, If you are staying in the Marriott at Fashion Island, I can recommend The Yardhouse for lunch - lively atmosphere, good food (upscale bar food). Also, my friends across the street really like the R&D Cafe. Apparently, it is more of a lunch than dinner menu.

We went to Gulfstream for dinner. Although I've since seen only okay reviews on TA, we thought is was really good. I had filet and it was cooked spot on. It was seared on the outside and was nice and juicy and red on the inside (just how I like it). We were there late on a weeknight, so no line, but I've heard there can be lines.

Dawn, email me. I can't believe I was in your neighborhood : )

I live about 20 minutes or less from Newport - a little south Surfmom - had no idea you were coming this way!

Thanks for posting the report, I enjoyed it. I was very sick with a stomach flu in Paris (with my mom) several years ago. Felt awful for a few days but still enjoyed the trip. Learned that they do not have gingerale in france and that baguettes feel like knives on your throat after you've been throwing up!

Sally - not that it is funny but I did LOL at your post as I tried to find ginger ale for dd as well and finding Sprite was harder then I thought at times. Orange Soda was burning her throat. Thanks so much for taking the time to read. Sorry you were also sick in Paris but glad you still enjoyed it. I hope to return someday.

Canada Dry used to be available everywhere in France, but it is true that I don't think that I have seen it in several years.

Sprite is absolutely everywhere because 7-Up never caught on in France.

MomDD what a trip you had! It was great to see Paris from a different set of eyes from the same week we were there.

We were thinking perhaps next time we try an apt instead of a hotel. We didn't spend much on our hotel this trip but who know what will happen with the $. It sounds like it was great fit for your family. We went into a supermarche for some food to bring home and between that & all the lovely specialty shops I wished we had the chance to food shop/cook more. Maybe next time.

Welcome home!

Surfmom:

Thanks for the tips. Isn't there a Yardhouse at the River in Rancho Mirage?

I have stayed at the Ritz in Dana Point a few times (I lived in L.A. for a long time) and may just splash out and have lunch there.

Like Javier in Laguna, too. Plus, there is always P.F. Chang's.....

We have had 10 inches of snow here in Chicago in the last 24 hours and am more than ready to get out of here.

Hi again. I loved your trip report. Real life, not the "everything was perfect" reports that some post. Not that I'm jealous, no, of course not!
And I loved the pictures, too. Now I have a face to go with the name.
Just in case I'm ever in Aliso Viejo when you're in town.
So you are moving? I guess that will bring its own turmoil, but at least you have some great (mostly) recent memories of wonderful Paris. We may look into an apartmet next time around, as we hope to stay two weeks at least, if the economy doesn't prevent that. It is just too far to go not to say a while. Last trip we were gone two weeks, but in three countries. Like you, I think moving around has its drawbacks.
Anyway, good report and maybe next time around we can do a GTG of some sort.
PS: Are you sure you're old enough to be in charge of all those children?

Engrossing report MomDD. Sorry about your little daughter being sick again. I too was amazed at the low cost of meds at drugstores in France ! something is very wrong when meds cost 4 Euro in Paris which my doc here says would have cost me $100 !!

thanks for the restaurants and food stores to try, and apartments to look over. I think I'll skip the 18th arr.though

thanks for the trip report and the tip on the boots.
i have a bad back with perpetually cold feet. i think these may be perfect for my trip in april.

weekender - that reminds me - Splashes is good for lunch. Cannot beat the view.If you have not been to the Montage yet either - it is expensive but wow - what a property!

Challiman - yes, we are moving. I actually think the move date is going to be 1-31 - so not sure I can have lunch Weekender . We signed the least on our rental yesterday. I will be holding onto the memories of our great trips over the last four years as I am not sure when our next one will be - that alone is depressing. Like many here, I do "best" when at least I have something to look forward to in the travel area. I would love to see you next time you come here. Hope it can work out.
And thank you for the compliment. No, actually I am NOT old enough to be in charge of all those children, part of the problem perhaps? LOL Just kidding of course.

Regarding the moving around a lot - I think if it was just dh and I - I would do 5 or 6 nights in two different areas - or if I had two full weeks - 7 nights in two areas... with the 6 people - it turns into a huge expense and frankly a hassle.

Mayhy2 - thanks for reading . I am still amazed at the cost of the meds etc. wow. The 18th is not an area I would stay in. But to each his own eh?

Abranz - these are the best boots and warmest I have ever owned. They ae actually a little too warm for Southern California on a chilly day (50 degree) but amazing in the below freezing conditions we had in Paris. No salt stains nothing on them.

Bella - I love apartments. When we went to Europe in 07 and took just the two girls - we did two apartments and two hotels. Each has its upside. For the shorter stays we did hotels - and I loved each one actually. And it was nice to have my bed made every day etc. We stayed in a hotel in Paris and Montruex <sp> and then apartment in Florence and Rome.

Hi Dawn:

Are you staying in the area with your move?

If you were smart, you would tell those people you live with that you have a prior engagement for a few hours on the 31st and let them do the move!

Have been past Montage many times but have never been in it. So many options and so little time, as usual.

Yeah..those people LOL - I may not move that day. The mover is coming out on Monday to discuss etc. My 15 year old is leaving for Kenya on the 2 so I may want to wait till the 3rd to move - to make it easier on her - she has a lot on her plate. Sooo it is not 100 percent yet, and dh will not move on the 1rst due to the superbowl and may want to wait anyway so his tv is still mounted etc.

Yes, we are staying in the general area but it is a definate move DOWN.

adding - I have never stayed at the Montage - it is crazy expensive imo. But have dined there before.

Mom, on our recent visit we stopped at Montage and got beautiful sunset photos of the whole family. Some of the best shots I 've taken, too. Out of 7 people and one small Pug, only one had crossed eyes! Well, funny looking eyes! LOL, moving with that many people, just to dinner, is tricky enough, can't imagine how you managed all that in Paris.
Good luck with the move. Maybe you should have your new home blessed. We have friends that did that when they moved and seem to think it has made a difference. Can't hurt, might help.

Hi Dawn,
I was wondering if you were home and just now came across your great trip report. Sorry to hear about your DH and DD not feeling well but glad you all had such a nice trip.

Welcome Home !

Dawn - it was great to read your report. I know you were really looking forward to this trip, and it seems that it did not disappoint.

Just a note about the museum passes - it is not necessary to get one for the kids. We were there in August (2 adults and 2 kids). With their museum passes, the adults went to the line for people with passes and the kids just followed along with them. The ticket checkers always just waved the kids through with us.

travel - ugh?? Really??? Darn..good to know for the future though and good to have on this thread.

Andrew - thank you so much!Nothing was going to spoil my time. I mean that. I did not go to Europe as planned with dd in the fall and it will likely be 12 long months before we can travel again...so I knew to enjoy every moment - good and bad. It is what makes up life right? The good and the bad and the balance there.. Paris is a breath taking experience that I hope to go back to someday..

That is true about kids and museum passes, although if there is any doubt about their ages, the museum staff may want to see a passport (or possibly other official ID).

You and your family have great spirits to get through all the sundry unpleasantness and still have a great time.

Did you spend all your trip in Paris? I remember you had a more ambitious itinerary at one point.

Last year I was in desperate need of ibuprofène, and went into a Paris drugstore to buy some. I didn't pay attention to the price, and gave a 100-Euro bill. The woman looked at me a bit strangely. How silly I felt when the cost was less than 2 Euros.

Dawn - thank you so much for your wonderful report. I very much enjoyed reading a "reality" version of a Paris trip (and your French spelling mistakes are endearing!).

We were in Paris last summer at the same time as friends who had two sick daughters, and they had the same positive experience with the French medical system as you did. I wouldn't want our government to run exactly like the French government, but we can certainly learn a lesson from their medical system.

I am headed back to Paris at the end of March/beginning of April with my sister. It will be my fifth time in the city but her first - I am really looking forward to seeing my favorite place in the world through a first-timer's eyes. I'll be devouring all of the Paris reports on Fodors until then...

By the way, I noticed some references to the "Real Housewives" in your posts and the replies. That show is my absolute favorite "guilty pleasure". I must say that your posts don't sound anything like something those women might write (and I mean that as a compliment to you). But gosh, I'd love to see those women in Paris!

Merci encore une fois, Dawn!

OT (sort of) (and I'm really glad you ended up with such a positive trip), but is the medicine cost thing true everywhere EXCEPT the USA? We were in Egypt and paid 60 cents for a bottle of Afrin, and less than a dollar for a bottle of name-brand cough medicine. Shocked to say the least.

The OC housewives are my neighbors.At least until the 31. I am moving - outside of the gates...downsizing. Dh has not done well in the last year in a new business venture and our portfolio is hurting like everyone I know, and it is time. We will be down to 2 children living here in August. Slade was right across the golf course (before his house foreclosed upon) and back in the day when I had more money - we had the same Aesthetician (as Vicki and the gals... she would give me all sorts of dirt), my older son hung out a little with Tamara's oldest boy Ryan... stuff like that. It is a small community.

Willtravel - thank you for the confirmation on the Paris pass. Good to have that information as I said in this thread for others.

We stayed 100% in Paris. I wanted to go to London for 5 nights and then Paris for 5 nights at one point and then also wanted to do a number of day trips.

When I booked the trip the Pound was HIGH and the holidays with Boxing day etc impacted the time. We found a really cool Castle experience but as I said, with the Pound so high we decided against it. It was very costly. In the end we simply decided an apartment for 10 nights in Paris was the best idea and to play it by ear when we got there. I am glad we had no train tickets etc as dd was SO sick for a major portion of the trip and we would have had to cancel. (and money would have been wasted).

I never knew Slade's house foreclosed.

Sorry for the brief comment

I believe on the show they said it sold. Nope. Nada... his car repod too. He was one of the first of many "mortgage broker refugees" as they are called in our area. We have "auto refugees" as well (dh being one of them!)

Thanks for the RHOC inside info. Your story sounds so different from one that I would imagine those ladies would tell - but perhaps I need to consider that what we see on television is very different from reality. And, I am sorry to hear about your financial issues - I am up in Silicon Valley and it is hitting us here, too.

Glad to see that you, like me, consider travel indispensable and are looking forward to your next trip! I hope you will post a report on your next trip, too, as you are a great storyteller.

Yeah.. I think it is differnt - honesty usually is. I do not know Tamera but question the whole thing about her dh and Fletcher Jones - Auto industry has been hit hard. Her house is also on the market. We were home for one showing and they told us they had just left her home. Not sure if that is on the show or not, I stopped watching it a while ago and catch it on occasion. It was super fun to watch at first - cool seeing our local places on tv etc.

I had the strangest dream last night and Frankie was in it LOL - the tenant that was in Vicki's house. I woke up and giggled. Sure it was because we are leasing our home out (maybe) etc.

Thank you for your well wishes. We are okay. We work with homeless in Santa Ana about once a month and I leave there going "okay, I have no problems". kwim?

Travel is a huge part of who I am; a heart beat - I was just emailing with someone about this - the fact is I would rather live in less of a house etc and have more "experiences" and for me the experiences come with travel.

We cannot really plan anything right now but am thinking about going the week after Christmas, just dh and I this time. We own 3 weeks of timeshares - crazy. There is a week available in a little town outside of Salzburg and I am hoping that will be a good base... waiting till FF miles are available for that week to see if it will work. Where there is a will - there is a way .

Thanks again for taking the time to read and all the great feedback.

~Dawn

Dawn:

I agree. There is more to life than being house poor.

Weekender - We very much agree.

MomDDTravel, I just happened upon your post since I am dreaming of going somewhere this year over Christmas/NYE. Thank you so much for such a delightful read. At one point, every trip my family went on, either or both dd and ds would get sick so I could completely relate. I became an expert in finding local doctors. I also could relate to the feeling you had enjoying the beautiful art and wishing your mother were there, and wanting to go back with her because of not quite wanting to make everyone who isn't enjoying it as much wait until you had your fill. There is such a tension for traveling moms, but for those of us who cannot live without it, it is totally worth the balancing act of others needs and health issues with our desire to eek out a bit of what we love.

Traveling for me is so important, and we have not traveled since last spring since my husband's company was effected earlier than most. We do have two trips coming up; however, since I was able to get great airfare, and rationalized the "need" to travel. I am thinking about doing a Paris/London split over the holidays 09, and if we do, then I intend to use many of your suggestions. Again, thank you, and good luck to you and your family.