There's a short story and a long story...

For now, I'm going to start with the short story, which is that we've made it to France and we're having a marvelous time.

We spent the first few days in Montpellier, basking in the truly stunning beauty of the South. John and I traveled through the south of France about 12 years ago, but when we did it last time, we were both students and we were broke as a joke for the entire journey.

Don't get me wrong-- sleeping in a wonky pensione while surviving on baguettes and rosé wasn't too much of a burden back then, but it was a real pleasure to see the South with a slightly more grown up budget. Not that we're living the high life-- not hot tubs or champagne for the likes of us-- but this time we've got a little more wiggle room to explore the surrounding countryside, which is just majestic. I know that's kind of a grand word, but really-- the topography is positively breath taking down here.

A true testament to its beauty: We were still awe struck by our drive down to Montpellier, even though we'd already spent 6 hours on a plane with a three year old. If you can keep morale high after 13 hours of continuous travel, you know two things: 1.) You're keeping good company. 2.) You're somewhere nice.

So-- now I'm going to post a million photos of our time in Montpellier-- and then I'll follow up in a day or two with more from our time in Paris, and the shit-show that's unfolding back in Brooklyn. (Let's not even go there now...)

It's possible that we originally chose Montpellier because they have a "Parc Des Dinosaures" within driving distance of the city. But as it turns out-- everything else about Montpellier and the surrounding towns was an utter success... Dumb luck, but we'll take it.

I hope everyone had a marvelous holiday season and a happy new year. I think I'm finally going to have the time to post more consistently in the new year, so if you're willing to give me another chance-- I'd be so pleased to have someone out there reading what I'm writing!

Bring it on 2016!!