By Angela Sanford
In less than 25 days my husband and I embark on the journey of a lifetime – three weeks in Paris. There are so many opportunities running concurrently through my mind that I don’t know where to begin but I think I’ll start with cuisine.
One of my favourite foods is a buttery croissant - simple crusty but velvety masterpiece that I have never attempted to create myself, knowing I’d never have the patience to craft this treat and do it justice. Thoughts of breaking the crusty shell to discover layers upon layers of flakey goodness makes my mouth water instantly. I imagine sitting on a park bench washing each morsel down with a newly acquired taste of a creamy coffee.
Having not been able to consume such delicacies for many years, it is even one of my first stops with any visit to Montreal, to a fine little French Bakery that specializes in gluten-free delights. With the European processing of flours vastly different than our American standards, croissants were also a daily treat while touring Greece and I am eager to enjoy the commodity daily, once again.
With strict dietary needs, I am also limited in what alcoholic beverages I can consume but white wine and cheese are two of my approved foods so “Look out, France – here I come!” I’ll pleasantly accept the challenge of sampling all that France has to offer in Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc and any cheeses to pair them with, whilst sitting outside a Parisian Bistro, wafting in the scent of a local French Bakery. Though it is red wine that is recommended in France, it is not one I am able to partake in so white it is.
With any travel, I ensure that I explore a dish that is authentic to the region, and in France there are many options that one might tantalize my tastebuds and with Dan and I acclaiming 29 years of marriage while in the City of Love, we’ll be sure to experience a special dinner out to celebrate.
However, while my palette has grown and my diet has been restrained over the past few years, there is one delicacy of France of which I ma certain I will not partake and that is escargot. Though known to be rich in nutrients and high in Omega fats, that is simply not enough to convince me to attempt this luxury. I’ll stick to the French pastries for my fats and perhaps test my tastebuds avec un choix de canard gourmand.
Outside of the gourmet choices I plan to venerate, there is obviously the history and culture that Paris will provide: the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, le Siene, et tellement plus! However, aside from French cuisine, history, and culture there is the true reason this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
We will parade through Paris and the Olympic Village proud parents of a two-time Olympian. Then we will pace back and forth, wearing a path in the stadium, as our son enters his competition. Our nerves will then dominate our stomachs and we will need to make every effort to refrain from expelling all of the delicacies we have enjoyed to date! C’est la vie!
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