The trip was a complete success and I feel such a sense of accomplishment that we went and had such a great time. One of the major things that contributed to this, is the amount of preparation that went into the trip. When everything is planned out it allows you to relax and just enjoy the sights and share the experience with people you love, family. The European flavor is so different than the US and seeing things for the first time, especially when you've heard about them and seen pictures your whole life, is quite amazing. How many movies, pictures, etc. have I seen in my life showing the Eiffel Tower, and yet it was spectacular in real life. And Paris, the land of scooters, the streets are like nothing I've ever seen, although the yellow colored buildings did remind me of Stockholm, another city I hope to return to in my life. I think the value of traveling can not be overstated, to see other places and cultures and the different attitudes of each are valuable to give more perspective on life. I think of my siblings, parents and grandparents who would all love to see England at least, considering the family heritage connections, and yet I doubt many will travel there in their life. The barriers that keep people from taking on adventure, money, fear of flying or whatever, can be broken through and makes life so much more rewarding. I'm thankful my daughter moved to Sweden which prompted me to finally take the plunge and get on an eight hour flight. It scares me to think I might otherwise never have made it over to Europe. Now I'd like to make the trip annually, if possible. So much more to see.
