Who doesn't love Paris!?!

What makes Paris so irresistible? 

It's a love affair! 

It starts with one of the most famous, and romantic, of all symbols:

The Eiffel Tower.

Who hasn't heard the stories of lifetimes together

starting at the top (or even bottom) of the Eiffel Tower. 

I've heard personally of several people who either proposed 

or were proposed to atop the tower or on a boat on the Seine while cruising past. 

In fact, visit Nathalie at Dolce Dreams 

for one such romantic love story. 

Then the love affair moves to the Seine,

a river flowing with history, fame and glory. 

One only needs to say the word 'Seine' and the world knows where you are. 

And of course there are the cafes!

The perfect place no matter the weather

be it a chilled kir in the summer

or the ever popular chocolate chaud in  winter. 

And for me,

the affair always includes the open-air markets...

with their vibrant colors,

and tempting flavors,

seasonal freshness,

and delicate seafood.

I love the glitz and fun of the holidays...

...the hidden courtyards,

the doors,

and windows,

And the metro,

night or day...

I adore the bread

and the cheese

of course the wine

and don't get me started on the luscious, decadent sweets...

and hot perfect frites,

...the art,

and architecture,

and the fabulous photo shots,

...don't forget the myriad choices and flavors of

'real' champagne...

...and the ancient finds on every walk. 

But above all else,

the biggest draw for me in Paris

is my very own heart...

My family!

My sister and her children live in Paris 

and it's because of them that Paris shines even brighter for me. 

There's no one in the world like your sister

and mine has given me Paris.

Not sure I'll ever be able 

to return such a favor. 

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Be sure to stop by Anita's

Castles, Crowns and Cottages

for the Simply Irresistible Paris Link Party. 

See you there! 

(Photographs copyright: Kirsten Steen)