Traveling around Europe
Almost fourteen years ago I backpacked through Europe. I went with my friend for a month and during that time we managed to visit France, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Germany. In my whirlwind adventure I fell in love with the world, traveling and all it had to offer. In my opinion, travel begets travel which means that trip forever left me altered. Once you take the initial leap to pack your bag, criss cross time zones and learn to navigate in a foreign country you learn how little you need and how much you have to offer the world.
Upon my return from Europe I envisioned traveling there as frequently as possible. However, life choices and other priorities meant I never returned until now. Now married, a mother and very much a changed person I once again strapped on that familiar dark green backpack and instantly felt my excitement and wonder for the world return. I was quickly reminded this part of me is very much alive.
Life is about choices and I am grateful for every choice we have made to create memories, establish a solid friendship within our marriage and invest in ourselves. Travel is an investment, of time, resources and memories. Fourteen years ago Cameron and I had just started dating a couple months before I left for Europe. While backpacking around Europe, I missed him dearly. I wished he had been there to experience all that I had.
On our first evening in Paris, we arrived late after taking the train from Amsterdam. Instead of going to bed early we headed out to walk around the city. As we walked hand in hand and my eyes caught hold of the Eiffel Tower a lump in my throat started to form and tears welled up in my eyes. There are not many moments I can distinctly remember crying tears of joy- but this was one of those moments.
My heart felt whole and happy and I felt completely immersed in the moment. The best way I can describe it is an overwhelming sense of love and gratitude. Gratitude for my life, and love for our little family. Fourteen years ago I wished Cameron had been there and now he was here with me. Happiness comes easy when life runs smoothly, but when it is hard won it is a powerful force in your life. Sometimes dreams take a little longer to come to fruition, but the anticipation and gratitude for when they do makes life all the more sweeter.
My life has taken some unexpected twists and turns, but my faith, my hope and my marriage are stronger for it. Paris will always be a special place to me, it was the first country I visited outside of the U.S. and it was the place I was able to feel for one distinct moment the happiest woman in the world.
How about you, what are some of your most memorable travel moments?
