PARIS DAY TWO: BIRTHDAY MAGIC, ICONIC SIGHTS, AND GRATITUDE

Day two in Paris, and it was a very special occasion – my sister's birthday! What better way to celebrate than with a day packed with iconic Parisian experiences? Our European adventure is off to a truly magical start.

We began with a relaxing Seine River cruise, a perfect way to see the city from a unique perspective. Gliding past famous landmarks and bridges, with the beautiful scenery all around, it was a romantic and peaceful start to the birthday festivities.

Next, the highlight of the day (and maybe the trip so far!): the Eiffel Tower. It's even more breathtaking in person than in any photo. We were all awestruck by its sheer size and intricate design. Going to the top was an incredible experience, and the panoramic views of Paris were simply stunning. Sharing that moment with my mom and sister, especially on her birthday, was truly special.

After the Eiffel Tower, we made our way to the Louvre, eager to explore its treasures. Unfortunately, tickets were sold out for the day. While we were disappointed not to go inside, just seeing the iconic pyramid structure was a treat in itself. It's a striking piece of architecture, and it perfectly complements the grandeur of the Louvre. We admired the building's facade and soaked in the atmosphere, knowing we'd have to return another time.

We ended our day on a more spiritual note, visiting the Church of St. Paul the Apostle. We offered our prayers and thanks for the amazing experiences we were having. My mom and sister were definitely tired from all the walking, but their faces were beaming with delight. They were so happy and appreciative of everything we had seen and done.

Our time in France may be short, but this stopover has been truly amazing. We’ve packed so much into just a couple of days. 

We can’t wait to see what the rest of our three-week European tour holds. Tomorrow: Amsterdam, the Netherlands.