Wednesday, December 19, 2012

So Many Pictures, So Little Time


I took so many pictures while in France that I'm a little confused as to what to show you first.  There are pictures of the Opera, pictures of Saint Chapelle, pictures of bridges, buildings, and places we had tea.  Add to that the fact that there is still no Christmas tree at my house, I am sick as a dog from whatever I caught on the metro or the plane ride home, that my in-laws will be arriving in a few days and I haven't finished shopping... to say that this old brain of mine isn't really able to make too many thoughtful decisions at the moment would be an understatement. 

So after processing a few images, and darting from day to day, I finally decided to just start at the beginning.  The real beginning was on the 6th of December when we flew out, arriving on the 7th to very cold temps and snow...so there aren't very many pics from that day.  The real picture taking began on the 8th, when we ventured out to visit Notre Dame and wander the streets surrounding that part of Paris.  Most of the pictures in this post are from the inside of Notre Dame, and the light was VERY low as it was evening time, not the best for hand held pictures, but tripods are strictly forbidden.




A lovely statue of Joan of Arc...




One of the many gilded reliefs found in the cathedral...




Beautiful light and graceful arches dominate this ages old structure.  Just a few days after these were shot they celebrated the 850 year anniversary of Notre Dame!




Ornate ironwork, like these lovely gates, can also be found here.




So much to see, and well worth the visit...




Even the ceilings are beautiful!




As are the chandeliers.  It must have been a sight to behold when these were all lit by candlelight!




And when the organ plays...oh my, it will bring you to tears...truly!



Now, I better go start cleaning and get my tree up since I don't think posting the pic above from the opera will suffice...pity really as it was truly perfect!

17 comments:

  1. Thank you for posting your wonderful photos. These are images that we don't see everyday. I am going to visit to see all of your pictures. Smiles, Susie

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  2. Maybe this is a time for you to receive instead of give this Christmas Kat - sit and rest and think of Paris?

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  3. Your pictures are absolutely gorgeous...you had some wonderful subjects. I can imagine that I would be snapping away, too, just to preserve all this beauty to savor later.

    I am decorating the tree today, but otherwise I might venture to say that I'm caught up. Not ahead...just where I should be. The packages will be arriving like crazy by UPS soon and I will be bombarded. But I'm grateful because I didn't have one single minute to get to a store. It seems like we are in similar positions...major evens happening during the busiest month of the year! One thing that always comforts me is looking back at the Christmas's over the years...the same rushing and anxiety, yet it always turned out okay. We'll be fine.

    XO,
    Jane

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  4. When the dust settles and the bug departs you'll have so much fun looking back at your pictures. Til then, take it easy on yourself!

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  5. Hi, Kat~
    Welcome back ~ I've missed you!! Gorgeous photos. And so impressive considering the light level. I think you should do a book :)

    I hope you are feeling better. I've been so swamped....unpacking our new container, setting up the shop, pricing, etc. Haven't had time for blogging lately. But, taking a lovely break here....enjoyed your beautiful photos!
    Merry Christmas!!
    Loi

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  6. I feel your pain with that bug you're nursing (have had one of my own since Saturday night). There's a magic to the old European cathedrals that cannot be comprehended unless you're standing there in person. So huge, and gorgeous, and miraculous!

    Christmas tree and other decorations will be lovely, no matter how much or little you decide to do. Don't do too much, drink plenty of water, and take care of yourself. Hugs to your family, and to your sweet pups.

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  7. Your pictures are beautiful. Kat that virus sounds yucky - hope you're better soon

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  8. Wow, Kat, these are extraordinary. Low light doesn't effect your photography.

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  9. Lovely, Kat! What a wonderful trip!

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  10. These really are fabulous and the lighting makes me 'feel' what you saw even better. It seems so real. I'm going to enjoy all of these posts!

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  11. Your photos are beautiful, Kat...and convey such a feeling of peace...and quiet. I hope you will be feeling better soon, and can enjoy your Christmas celebration! XO

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  12. Take care of yourself! And WOW, love your pictures!!! :) donna

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  13. Gorgeous! Notre Dame will be on my list when I visit Paris. Although, your photographs make me feel as if I am there already. . .can't wait to see what you'll post next.

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  14. Traveling to lovely
    places like this takes
    twice as long when
    you love to take pictures,
    doesn't it? So much
    to capture!! I hope that
    you are able to smile
    despite all that is on
    your plate. I hope that
    you are feeling better,
    soon!

    Merry Christmas and
    many blessings for a
    wonderful 2013!

    xo Suzanne

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  15. Beautiful pics Kat:) Wishing you and your family a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

    Blessings,
    Linda

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  16. What a memorable trip hat! Feel better and enjoy the holidays :)

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  17. I just cannot imagine being there in person...or maybe I can and it makes me long for it so. Thank you for posting these, this is where I WILL go someday. xoxo

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