A little story? One day when I was oh, about twelve years old? I was lying in the grass in my backyard when I became aware that I felt very happy. Then I realized no, I felt totally content. When I tried to figure out why, I realized out that all my senses were at ease. I was staring up at a beautiful tree in bloom, the grass was cool on my skin, I could smell the sweet flowers, hear the bees up in the tree above me, and I had just finished eating a cookie. I was relaxed and calm. So even today when I put a trip together, I focus on satisfying all five senses and this technique truly makes for a memorable travel experience. 

So in using that mindset, I put together Gallivant & Traipse, seeking out experiences that become special memories. Some examples ⬇️

A few of my least favorite memories: sweating on the Paris Métro in July; wasting valuable hours in Provence on an over-air-conditioned tour bus; and feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and famished after too many hours inside the Louvre. I've learned from these experiences and, with Gallivant & Traipse, I run in the other direction. 

I have explored most all of regions and have found astounding beauty and abundantly friendly people. There is SO MUCH to see in France and even though I've been to so many places I feel like I've only just scratched the surface! In case you're interested, there's a map at the bottom of this page which shows the major areas of my past gallivants. 

When not in France, I live in Minnesota with my husband, two (French-speaking) children, and two dogs.