“Why Did You Pick Paris?”

Paris

Hi There, Friends!

Over the course of these past few months I have been asked one question regarding my move to Paris repeatedly. And, to be entirely honest… I’m a wee bit tired of answering it. So, I’ve written a post addressing the matter below – more to organize my own thoughts than anything else.

Hopefully this will satisfy the curious folk out there.Β 😊


“Why Did You Pick Paris?”

Several variations of this question have surfaced lately, which is not at all surprising to me. After all, I’m from Southern California, have no French ancestry (unless you count the one deceased relative on my mother’s side of the family… which I don’t), and fully understand no more than a dozen French words, none of which can I pronounce correctly. In short: I’m kinda, sorta… crazy. Except, maybe minus the ‘kinda, sorta’ part.

However, there is – some – logical reasoning behind my decision. Let’s outline the points, shall we?

1) I have traveled. Traveled… a lot. As most regular readers of Lace & Lilacs are aware, I truly lucked out in the parents department. My father lovesΒ venturing to unfamiliar destinations ’round the world, and often does so for his business. I’ve been accompanying him on work trips since the age of three (Sydney, Australia. There may have been an unfortunate incident involving tomato juice, a tantrum, and a 17 hour flight), occasionally joined by my mom and, as they grew older, my brothers.

I suppose what I’m trying to say here is this: A nine hour time difference truthfully doesn’t seem all that long to me. If – God forbid – an emergency in either France or California were to come about, my family and I could be together in less than 24 hours.

Oh, and of all the cities I’ve had the privilege to spend time in, Paris is my absolute favorite. But more on that later…

2) It runs in the family? My paternal grandfather lives in Asia year round, tending to his oh-so-lovely plumeria gardens. My father’s Thai half-sister resides there as well. My paternal great-grandparents immigrated from Germany in the ’40s. And both of my parents studied at Georgetown University – miles and miles away from their California & Texas based families.

My decision, therefore, didn’t come as much of a surprise to anyone.

3) Art & History & Culture. Paris is the perfect place to study art forms of all kinds, and photography is no exception. And, as I mentioned earlier, Paris is my favorite city on earth, at least of those I’ve had the privilege to visit thus far. It is so beautiful.


I do hope this answered your questions. You probably still think I’m insane, though, yes? I know I do… xx

(The above illustration is from GraphicStock… if only I could sketch like that!)

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19 comments on ““Why Did You Pick Paris?””

  1. Within the context of your life, it seems quite reasonable really πŸ™‚ Your family are true global citizens.

    • Oh, thank you for your comment, Sarah! I wouldn’t say we’re *that* global, but we certainly do travel often. I suppose I’m just a wee bit tired of so many people responding to my situation with shock or fear for me. Everyone is different, but I know myself, and I can handle this… I think.

      I hope you’re having a wonderful day. xx

  2. I’m new to your blog so this was fun to stumble on to right from the start, haha! This was actually pretty inspiring to read. I just bought myself a one way ticket to Ireland for vacation, but my intention is not really having a set game plan on when I come back home. It might be one month… it might be three, and the thought of it makes me super nervous! I never did anything like that and I’m not sure why it’s stressing me out so much. It was lovely to read someone moved to Paris on a whim- and without much anxiety!

    xo marlen
    Messages on a Napkin

    • Oh, thank you for commenting, Marlen! I just hopped on over to your site, and I adore it. Your writing and style are both so beautiful!

      You’ll have a fabulous time in Ireland, and I hope to read more about it on your blog soon! I haven’t yet moved to Paris, but the countdown has begun… just a few more days! I can hardly believe it.

      Have a lovely day! xx

  3. I don’t think you’re insane, just brave – and smart to do this while you’re young :).

  4. If I were in your position, I’d also choose to live in Paris. πŸ™‚ I wish I could’ve lived a well traveled life like you did! πŸ™‚

  5. I’m actually so surprised that people are asking why you picked Paris! My first reaction was, “omg duh! I’d pick Paris in a heartbeat!” πŸ˜› And did you make that illustration yourself? It’s amazing! -Audrey | Brunch at Audrey’s

    • (Hahah, no I WISH! πŸ˜‰ I downloaded it from GraphicStock… best company eva. It’s totally worth the subscription if you’re into design.)
      The first time someone asked me why I chose to study in Paris, I was really shocked. Like… how was I supposed to answer? I think people are dubious about the whole thing because I don’t speak French – yet.
      Also, I think since you’ve traveled a lot you kind of get where I’m coming from. I suppose people that haven’t don’t see the world the same way as those who have. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing at all… I actually don’t think I appreciate the place I grew up in enough. But it’s – maybe?- a fact.
      xxx

  6. anyone who has read your blog for any amount of time totally had no questions–of course it had to be Paris!! πŸ™‚ <3

  7. Please go hug your Dad! What a wonderful experience he has provided you with…. Traveling with him!

    Yes, you are very lucky. And also very Wise, to have learned from and enjoyed all this marvelous travel.

    And although I did not think of asking “Why Paris?”….. I can now see how and why you are so comfortable with the idea of setting out, on your own, at a young age. When most girls are befuddled with the usual teen angst. (Sushhhhh, but I have one in the family…)

    Carry on my Dear! Be grateful to your parents. And I am grateful to you, for taking me along on your wonderful coming adventure.

    Gentle hugs,
    Tessa

    • Oh, thank you for your sweet comment, Tessa! I’ll definitely hug my dad ASAP. πŸ™‚

      I really have been fortunate, and am so, so grateful for this opportunity that my parents have provided me with. They’ve been endlessly supportive; I couldn’t have asked for two better role models growing up. <3

      xoxo! I hope you're having a lovely day.

  8. Hi Abby! I found you via Thalia’s blog and I’m glad I did..! Your blog is amazing and I can’t believe you’re only 17! Amazing to have such a beautiful blog (with videos & podcasts & all) at such a young age! πŸ™‚ I hope you’ll enjoy your stay in paris, and yes indeed, you’re lucky to be able to travel so much! Traveling is such an eye opener and definitely something we should all aspire to do!

    Sending love from Buenos Aires, also known as the Paris of South America!

    felicia

    • Hi Felicia! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. <3

      And ooh, Buenos Aires! I haven't yet visited South America, but want to SO SO badly. It's definitely on my bucket list. πŸ™‚

      I hope you're having a wonderful day! xoxo

  9. Why not Paris?! Only the most amazing city in the whole world!!!! I lived in Paris for a year and it was the best experience of my life, I love the French and their culture.

  10. You are so inspirational! The only thing holding be back from moving out of the country are visas and permanent residence etc. otherwise I really want to move to Canada πŸ™‚ Keep up the good work, your photography is so beautiful!