Where it all began - my office alcove (with horrid beige carpet) in our Paris apartment.
Nine years is a long time in the blogosphere. And I should have posted this piece yesterday, on the actual 9th anniversary of Paris Parfait. Instead, I was at the hospital with my husband, his second emergency visit within three days.
Within the past year, my blog has been neglected, with long periods of silence. Obviously, my husband's health has taken priority over everything. Despite my frequent absences, you, my longtime readers and friends, have remained steadfast.
The best thing about starting the blog nine years ago is not the stories or poems or photographs I've posted - it's you, the readers. It's the friendships we've formed and the confidences we've exchanged. It's the meals and conversation and laughter we've shared in Paris, London, Amsterdam and Seville; in New York, San Francisco, Santa Fe, Savannah, Vancouver and Amman. Over the past nine years, I've had the great privilege of meeting about 100 fellow bloggers and readers; all but two of these meetings have been lovely experiences.
I've been especially touched by the messages of support and solidarity received during these challenging months. These messages are like little badges of courage, to carry along the rocky road David and I are gingerly traversing.
Strength in numbers, my friends. Thank you for nine wonderful years. Une mille fois, merci!
Thank you for sharing your world with us.
Affectionately,
Merisi
Posted by: Merisi | 22 February 2015 at 12:07
You and David have been in my thoughts as well. Do not worry about blogging...your readers send you love and support and understand the challenges you have. Keeping you in thoughts and sending positive vibes your way. xx
Posted by: Helen | 07 February 2015 at 23:15
Thank you, dear Tara, for nine years of so many thought-provoking, insightful and beautiful photos, stories, and friendship. Happy blogiversary! I have been thinking of you. I hope things have eased some...sending prayers and many ((hugs)). xox
Posted by: Terri | 06 February 2015 at 12:07
Love your blog and pictures, long time fanā¤
Thank you.
Posted by: Linda Sullivan | 05 February 2015 at 20:09
I've loved the beautiful photos you've posted over the years Tara. Thank you. Thinking of you and David at this hard time for you both. Blessings.
Posted by: Kay | 03 February 2015 at 08:50
I remember your Paris apartment (glimpses of)and all the wonderful online conversations. Both you and David are in my thoughts, and wish him a quick recovery. xoxoxo
Posted by: Colette | 03 February 2015 at 01:49
Congratulations, Tara, on 9 years. That is quite an achievement. How I treasure our meeting in Paris some years ago.
Praying David will feel better soon, sending hugs to your both.
Posted by: Marilyn | 03 February 2015 at 00:02
Biggest, hugest hugs I can give to you and David as I send tons of love and healing wishes your way. (You know I worry...) And wonderful congratulations on your ninth year. That is an impressive achievement and I thank you for sharing the beautiful places you've lived in and visited, your thoughts on life, the world situation and copyright issues and most of all your glorious friendship (and lovely home!) over these many years.
Rick and I are holding David close in our hearts. And of course, you, too.
Posted by: jeanie | 02 February 2015 at 15:07
You are, Miss Tara, per always, a class act. I cannot find adequate words to express how your posts and photos have added to my life. Hold David close. Breathe. Repeat. I am sending as much good karma, mojo, juju, and prayers across the miles as I can muster. Hugs and love to you and David.
Posted by: Mary H. | 02 February 2015 at 15:04
hope things will turn around for David... sending lots of love and good thoughts your way... happy anniversary.... hang in there xooxoxoo
Posted by: martha ann | 02 February 2015 at 13:03
I am always pleased that you are posting after periods of silence as I miss your photographs and your thoughts on life. It would be sad to not know how you are doing if you just stopped without some kind of sign off. Your world adds something special to mine. It does seem awkward at times to feel like I am a friend of someone i have never physically met. But in the same way I have been writing letters to a pen pal in Sweden since 1975. My birthday was January 31 and I am now 68, and have been facing some of the issues you speak of. We are all in this together and it does help to hear other voices. Yes, strength in numbers, but we are all one. With love, Paula
Posted by: Paula Bowen | 02 February 2015 at 10:19
oh my heart to your heart...fingers, toes and everything else crossed that David's health improves! smooches
Posted by: Leau | 02 February 2015 at 00:42
Thinking of you. Sending love & healing vibes from California!
Posted by: Maureen | 01 February 2015 at 22:21
Happy 9 year blog Anniversary. I keep you and David in my prayers always. Blessings and much love to you both
Jeanne
Posted by: Jeanne | 01 February 2015 at 19:17
Tara, I've been thinking about you and wishing for the best for David. You are both in my thoughts. Thank you for being a voice full of passion.
Posted by: Carina | 01 February 2015 at 17:45
Nine years is a long time to do most things, I think. Especially nowadays, when everything seems to be about instant gratification....
Thank you for sharing your world with us.
I have been thinking about you both, and continue to send good vibes your way.
Posted by: Vicki in Michigan | 01 February 2015 at 15:36