Palais-Royal

Those of us in the IT World understand the dreaded word “Consultant.” Oui, the consultant from Paris France will come and solve all of our IT problems.

Back in 2009 Joel (A consultant from France) came to New Haven Ct; together Joel and I were locked up in a room for 30 days (and many nights) building a BPM software solution for Yale University. Yes - it was the Lombardi project.

When you work this closely with someone you either kill each other - vowing to never see this person again - Or you become life long friends. I am happy to report the latter of the two options is the outcome of our journey.

Back in 2009 Joel stayed with us for a night - we showed him around Boston. Through the magic of FB we have remained friends - having never seen him since.

A couple of days before arriving to France I messaged Joel of our arrival and VERY short stay in Paris. Without hesitation he adjusted his schedule (Yes - he is still a dreaded consultant now working in the AI space) and was able to drive into the city to meet up with Donna and myself.

Having limited time we walked into an area that was once a castle - with a lovely garden and tree lined path. Found a cafe to have a meal and a beer together - and basically picked up right where we left off in 2009. Updated on children, grand-children, jobs, our retirement were all shared.

Once our meal was done, we walked past the Louvre and Joel got a picture of me kissing my lovely wife on a bridge spanning La Seine River. You know just like in the movies.

These three hours with such a good friend surpassed anything anyone could wish for in Paris. There just isn’t an excursion in the VIking Daily for this type of time.

I am sure there are many who read this who understand these types of relationships. Today is a special day on our adventure. What a wonderful way to put a bow on this world cruise.

Also, having someone who knows how to order in French really helped.

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