The winter sale was extended and ends tomorrow, just as I leave. In Paris, the stores only have sales twice a year. It's nationally mandated. I don't understand it completely but I very much enjoy the result - beautiful French clothes I wouldn't usually consider at prices I can afford (usually over 50% off). 
I picked up shirts and sweaters (one reminded me of the salmon pink one I picked up 15 years ago), pants and a skirt, bijoux (jewelry) and even two wool coats. I never found a bag nor a petite suitcase so packing tonight shall be interesting. Especially since I did find a pillow I couldn't say non to.
I'm writing this while enjoying my last dinner. At a little creperie on "my island". Of course on my last day I discover great little gems I would have visited every day. At least I have one more breakfast here.
I'm surprised by my French. I just carried on a "conversation" while ordering and trying to make substitutions - I really want some French mushrooms before I leave. I understand more than I thought I would. And while I walk the streets I carry on pigeon French in my head - practicing. Yes - I'm that crazy tourist muttering to herself while admiring the beautiful architecture everywhere.
I'm amazed how far I've come since my last visits to this beautiful city. When I was 15, I was so awkward and although I probably was in the prime of my French speaking, I wouldn't utter a word. Now, even when we've switched over to English, I still try to use my French.
I actually met my 15 year old self, in a way, in the form of a young woman, Oksana, who's from St Petersburg and going to school in Lyon. We met on our way to Chateau Fontainebleau and ended up spending the day together. Although much more out going than I was, she reminded me a lot of my younger self. And in a way, compare how far I've come.
And even, just 5 years ago, when I was here with friends and family. I remember crossing Pont Neuf, on the way home and thinking how lovely the houses were on the island. And thinking they must be only for the rich. Today, in my meanderings, I found the pied a terre we stayed at. As I was trying to take a picture through the door, a mother and her adult son came along, on their way home and let me in. I was able to learn, while in the cute little courtyard, that the building was being repaired and replastered. And indeed, when I left through the front, having come in through the back, I looked up and wouldn't have recognized the place.
It was strange to see how much had changed in such a short period of time, myself included. Even just my approach to vacationing. Usually I'm quite frugal. Maybe it's because of the excuse of my birthday or reminding myself of my annual review I just had but I realized, I am one of those lucky few who get to live on that charming little island that my earlier self would wistfully admire each evening walking home.
As I wrap up my visit, I tell myself this is not the end but only the beginning. Perhaps of a new tradition. As I enter into this new decade of my life, I resolve to enjoy all that comes my way. I've been flirting with the idea of having an annual pilgrimage to Paris. Maybe, this time next year, finds me again in this restaurant, bursting full, with all the glorious smells. And unable to finish the rich dessert crepe and the super rich hot chocolate, sweetened to taste. They give you sugar to sweeten it.
Here's to Paris and my future return, some day.
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