Storied Places

Don't you love the library? There's something so special about a place filled with books, an entire building devoted to stories that can teach you anything or take you anywhere. I recently saw this roundup of the world's most beautiful public libraries, and it got my imagination running. Here are a few, from Rome, Mexico City, Amsterdam, Stuttgart and Paris.

Photos from here. 

Paris

This weekend my husband and I went on a perfect low-key date. We finally saw Midnight in Paris. What a neat movie! I liked the unconventional storyline, and all the images of Paris were stunning. A few minutes into the film, Will turned to me and whispered, "Well, I guess we need to go to Paris now." Yes, please! We've both visited the city but never together, so I hope it happens someday. In the meantime, I'll just gush over the beautiful photography by Irene Suchocki (find more of her work here, here and here).

Photo from here. 

Le Sigh

I like to think if I lived in Paris, I would dress the part. By that I mean I hope I would appear effortlessly chic with a style that wasn't over-the-top and that was all my own. If that ever happens -- and even if it doesn't -- I will take my cue from Alix of the cherry blossom girl. Her sense of fashion is pretty spectacular, even when her clothes are in hushed, muted shades.

Here, let's take a look at a few of her recent outfits:

Photos from here.

If Only ...

There's something about early spring that makes me feel wistful and romantic. I'd love to get away, even just for a few days.

Travel is one of my biggest passions, but unfortunatley I don't have any trips coming up. But if I had my choice today I'd steal away to Paris with my husband. I know it's a cliche, but I've never seen the city in the springtime and I'll bet it's wonderful. Sigh ...

So here's my mental springtime in Paris vacation, illustrated by talented Flickr photographers.

The iconic Eiffel Tower, but shown in a fresh and lush way.

This couple is adorable and I keep thinking up scenarios about them: Are they traveling together? Are they long-distance lovers meeting up in the city? Are they meeting for the first time at this moment?

Gorgeous and eclectic architecture in spring-perfect pastels.

Photos from flickr.com.