After a long and somewhat frustrating flight, we finally arrived in Paris and found our coach to Chenonceaux.  We took a direct route through Paris, where we were able to observe, from the safety of our large bus, the crazy Parisian driving skills!  We have noticed that motorcycles are very common in France.  There are motorcycles parked on all the streets, of all different shapes and sizes.  After seeing from afar the Eiffel Tower, L'Arc de Triomphe, and various other monuments, we began to get more and more excited to be in France.

When the ride to the Loire Valley was finished, we quickly began our tour of the first chateau, Le Chateau de Chenonceau.  The beautiful gardens and incredible architecture woke us all up after a little nap on the bus.  People of all nationalities were present at the chateau, and some of us even recognized the distinct sound of Russian.

The beautiful chateau is astounding, and all of the group immediately began snapping pictures (yes, parents, we remembered to take some of ourselves at the Chateau as well).  After receiving dinner at our little hotel — chicken, peas, and mixed vegetables — we were all ready to sleep!

Au revoir and much more to come!

— Kathy Gardner

P.S. We're working on the pictures!