Storm clouds billowed up looking dark, menacing and absolutely beautiful one Fall afternoon in Paris last year. Undaunted by the impending storm, I tossed a red scarf about my neck and walked briskly through the crowded city streets and into the Jardin des Tuileries.

How I love Parisian gardens, be they small, tidy ones tucked away at the back of an old church, or grand, sprawling ones like the Tuileries or Luxembourg. The Tuileries was my favorite that trip. It was a five minute walk from my brother’s apartment, and the perfect escape from honking horns and yelling passersby.

It was a source of never-ending delight for me since I never knew what I’d find there. Fully expecting marble or stone statues in classic poses, I was highly amused by this fellow and his compatriots dotting the landscape for some sort of exhibit.

I strolled past amorous lovers, watched children shrieking with laughter as they played tag in the trees, smiled at finely dressed elderly couples walking slowly along hand in hand.

The massive gates of the gardens always make me feel special, like I’ve been granted access to a place normally reserved for royalty. I smile as I walk through them, suddenly feeling more confident and not caring one bit that I may be the only woman in the park not wearing heels.

It was a beautiful morning, made all the more lovely by a stop at a cafe for luscious Crème caramel and a hot, strong cup of espresso.

My friend Tuula has a great post up today featuring 17 Ideas for An Afternoon in Paris. It’s perfect for a bit of armchair traveling on this cold, Fall day.

What would be your ideal dessert on a wander through Paris?