August 2011: Reconnecting with Friends in Paris After the wonderful wedding celebrations in Provence, I continued my journey to Paris to visit my dear friends Sabrina and Thomas, whom I know from my time with Action Against Hunger (AAH). It was a heartwarming reunion with this lovely couple, now settled in Paris, and a chance to meet their two young daughters for the first time. Both Sabrina and Thomas still worked for AAH’s Paris office, and it was a joy to catch up with them, hear about their lives, and reminisce about our shared experiences and mutual friends from the humanitarian world. Long Talks and Catching Up Our time together was filled with long, meaningful conversations over glasses of French wine. We shared stories about our work, updates on mutual friends, and reflections on how life had unfolded since our AAH days. It felt wonderful to reconnect with people who not only share a common history but also a shared passion for humanitarian work and making a difference. Exploring Paris Of course, being in Paris meant venturing out to experience the beauty and charm of the city. Sabrina and Thomas were wonderful hosts, guiding me to some of their favourite spots and making the most of our time together. Local Markets We explored some local markets, vibrant with colour, flavour, and Parisian energy. These markets offered a glimpse into everyday life in Paris, with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries. The Louvre One of the highlights of my visit was a trip to the Louvre, the world-famous museum and a cultural icon of Paris. While a single day is far from enough to fully explore its vast collection, I made the most of the time we had. Wandering through the halls, marveling at masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, was an unforgettable experience. The grandeur of the museum and the depth of its art collection left me in awe. My time in Paris with Sabrina and Thomas was a perfect blend of friendship and exploration. Reconnecting with them and meeting their daughters was a reminder of the enduring connections formed through humanitarian work. Our conversations brought back cherished memories and strengthened the bond we share. The chance to explore Paris—from its local markets to the grandeur of the Louvre—was an added gift, making the visit even more special. Paris, as always, exuded its timeless charm, and experiencing it in the company of such wonderful friends made it a truly memorable part of my journey.