Returning Home: My First Trip Back to France in 12 Years, an unexpeced Surprise!
In June 2024, my dad and I boarded a flight to France, a trip that had been 12 years in the making. We were heading back to celebrate a huge milestone: my grandparents’ 50th wedding anniversary, where they would be renewing their vows. But this wasn’t just any trip, we had planned to surprise our family. No one knew we were coming until the day of the wedding.
Flying into Nice with my dad felt surreal. From the moment we landed, a wave of familiarity washed over me, like my soul instantly knew it was home. We took our time on the drive from Nice to Saint-Raphaël, the small seaside town in the French Riviera where I grew up. That journey, with its winding roads and Mediterranean views, was more than just a drive, it was a return to my roots.
A Surprise Worth Waiting For
The wedding day was full of joy, love, and happy tears. Surprising my family after so many years apart was an emotional moment I’ll never forget. Seeing the look on their faces, the hugs, the disbelief, the laughter, it made all the miles and all the waiting worth it. That day reminded me how deeply love holds us, even across time and distance.
Revisiting the Past, Creating New Memories
The trip became a beautiful blend of past and present. Walking through the streets where I spent my childhood, visiting old friends, and being surrounded by the familiar sounds, smells, and sights, it all brought back memories I didn’t even know I’d tucked away. My heart felt full in a way that’s hard to put into words.
After ten days, my dad flew home, but I stayed, soaking up five and a half weeks of family, connection, and self-discovery. I spent time with relatives in Toulouse, and even ventured up to Paris for a few days. I also did some solo travel, which pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me so much about who I am and how far I’ve come.
Moments I’ll Never Forget
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was meeting my nieces and nephew for the very first time. Spending time with them, creating new memories, and feeling that instant, unconditional family bond, it was something truly special. It reminded me that no matter how much time passes, love has a way of picking up right where it left off.
France Will Always Have My Heart
This trip filled my heart in ways I didn't even know I needed. It brought healing, joy, nostalgia, and growth. It reminded me where I come from, and how far I've come. And most of all, it gave me memories I’ll carry with me forever.
France…you’ll always be home to me.
One moment that will forever stay with me is the look on my grandma’s face when she saw my dad. After years apart, filled with pure surprise, joy, and so much love, brought tears to everyone’s eyes. But it’s the photo we captured of her reaction that truly stops me in my tracks every time I see it. Her expression said everything words couldn’t: the years missed, the love never lost, and the kind of connection that time and distance can never touch. That picture will always hold a special place in my heart.
One of the most emotional moments of the trip happened in a small, picturesque town called Gourdon, a place that holds so many memories from my childhood. My grandma used to bring all of us grandkids here for day trips, and being back there felt like stepping into a time capsule.
