This time alone

I’m flying to parts unknown. Well, not exactly unknown… I’ve travelled to these places before, but this time I’m going solo, with an open mind and a willingness to surrender myself to the universe (TBH, I’m still not entirely sure what that means). And yes, I just said that.

11:11

First stop: Montreal

As I write this, I’m sitting in my son’s apartment, trying very hard not to clean or pick things up off the floor. Seriously, does he even own a mop?

The last time I visited Montreal was a couple of years ago, just after he’d moved here for school. Back then, I was determined to make sure he was settled into the new city he now calls home.

Since then, he’s had plenty of time to explore, making him the perfect tour guide. We walked and Ubered everywhere as he introduced me to his favourite coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, all conveniently within Mom’s budget.

I’ve loved spending time with him and his friends. Watching them navigate life in their twenties brings back flashes of my own twenties, which somehow feel both distant and like yesterday. I probably should have savoured those years a little longer.

There’s something wonderful about witnessing the life he’s building and the future he and his friends are creating for themselves. The possibilities feel endless.

I’m leaving Montreal today feeling full in every sense of the word. I’ve cooked a few pots of this and that, stocked the kitchen with some essentials, and filled my heart with purpose.

Plane to Paris

Ever since returning home from Paris last year, the universe — and yes, I use that term lightly — has been leaving me little gifts. Tiny reminders. Signs, maybe? Or just happy coincidences?

It’s hard not to notice the word Paris appearing everywhere around my city. At this point, it’s become a bit of a joke. I try not to take it too seriously, but I’d be lying if I said it doesn’t make me smile and wonder.

As Audrey Hepburn famously said, “Paris is always a good idea.” N’est-ce pas?

I couldn’t agree more.

Honestly, do I even need an excuse to return? With my laptop, an endless supply of cafés and wine bars, and no real agenda, I’m hoping inspiration will strike. Or at the very least, the wine will keep flowing.

And yes, there will be shopping. That’s a given.

With fall in full swing, I can’t wait to see this season’s trends firsthand. Where better than Paris? I’m currently craving a cozy oversized sweater and maybe the perfect pair of boots.

“Flâner is the art of wandering a city’s streets with no goal or final destination, simply for the pleasure of soaking up the ambience.”

Paris feels made for this, and I’m ready for whatever it brings.

Another plane: Florence

I’ll be spending a week there meeting up with an old friend, and we have a lot of catching up to do. The last time we were in Florence together was in 1985, and I’m fairly certain we spent most of that trip slightly inebriated. I’d like to think we’ve matured since then… although I’m not entirely convinced.

We don’t really have anything planned, which feels perfect. I know there will be incredible food, good wine, endless conversations, and the magic of Florence quietly stealing the show.

And honestly, that sounds like more than enough.

A Train to Milan

Milan feels a little mysterious to me. I’ve never travelled there before, and I’m not entirely sure why. I’ve treated myself to a special hotel, just in case my expectations aren’t immediately met. Although, honestly, what’s not to love?

I’m looking forward to exploring a new city while continuing my favourite travel themes: incredible food, good wine, history, and wandering without too much of a plan.

And of course… shopping. Always shopping.

LC

xo