France, Day 6

Much like last spring break, our kids' birthday presents are tied up in experiences over here. Trent's day was today, and this little boy had a great day, declaring over dinner that "this day couldn't get any better."

We started at the Parc des Felines, which has the largest collection of wild cats on the planet (who knew?). Trent, who is still into all things animal and actually (like for reals) thinks he is related to the Black Panther, was in love. We saw various species of lions, cheetahs and tigers. We saw a few smaller cats too, but we finally had to call the day as the park was massive. So we hopped on the train around the park and then headed to the gift shop.

We had some great Indian food for lunch before heading back to the condo to watch a movie and go for a long swim.

We headed out for a late dinner in Chantilly. The palace in Chantilly is jaw dropping as is the cathedral in its neighboring town Senlis, so much so that you could convince me to spend my vacation an hour north of Paris next time.

Dinner was at a small, local Italian restaurant. The owner was quite enamored with Trent, and the free goodies and extra attention started to flow. I think it was the tiger mask Trent insisted on wearing for most of the meal.

Prior to our trip over here, I was worried about the rumored French distaste for Americans and tourists. Nothing could be more removed from our experience. Every single encounter we have had (every.single.one) has been with French people who are warm, welcoming, and unbelievably gracious to work with us as we attempt to understand or translate.

Plates of pasta and the world's best tiramisu later, and we about to crash for the night as we prep for Grant and Grace to experience their presents tomorrow.