Keep in mind, these were merely my observations. Generalizations, absolutely. I’ve not been everywhere in America, nor did I visit everywhere in Paris; but, these are some things I did see that I wish were at least a part of my everyday life here… in the great Murfreesboro/Smyrna/Nashville, TN.

(1) We are lazy. This is really nothing new, just a reminder. Tony and I walked everywhere (many times 30-45 minutes to a destination and everywhere in between). Everyone walked everywhere. There were taxis, lots of traffic and a train available for super distances, but as a whole, the primary mode of transportation were feet. If only we were set up better with sidewalks for safe walking or lanes in the street for bikes… Granted I couldn’t understand if anyone was complaining in their native tongue, but no one seemed to be exhaused or annoyed at having to walk. One of the first things I heard after arriving in Philidelphia on our way home was from a lady walking in the airport behind us, “Ugh. Where’s one of those cart things to take us to our gate!?” Which brings me to my next observation…

(2) Out of thousands of people I saw each day, probably 5 (or some really, really, really small number) were overwheight. What a country we are that struggles with health. Up-size, Biggie-size, huge portions and minor physical activity are what cater to this challenge. Faster, easier, bigger might as well be our motto. Fast food full of fat, calories, grease (I know, and lots of yum) are on every corner here. There are 2 McDonald’s within a mile of my house on the same street! Tony and I definitely ate well during our visit, but the portions were perfect. I was always full but never had the overwhelmingly uncomfortable bloating sensation of eating too much. There wasn’t a lot saturated in butter or oil and it seemed all of it was really fresh. Sodas also seemed to be the beverage least ordered at any place and we didn’t really see many people walking with food or drink in hand.

(3) People were well-dressed. Not necessarily in expensive attire, but they were prepared to be seen in public. If only I could show girls (and many women) how much nicer and more confident women looked dressed in items other than their sweats and pajamas…  those are for lounging at home or sleeping in the bed. I love a good t-shirt and jeans, but taking a few more moments to put myself together in the mornings changed my attitude about the day and my activities. I felt more ready for whatever may come and whoever might see me. I think it even gave me a little more energy and enthusiasm to greet the day.

(4) Back to the food… we don’t really EXPERIENCE our food. Meals never seemed to be a rush or afterthought for people. It was a time to relax, talk to whoever you were with and actually taste each bite. Whether we were in a corner cafe or a nicer restaurant for dinner, the presentation and service was always great. And man, did we eat some great stuff! I of course HAD to have authentic french onion soup, french fries, french bread, croissants and crepes… and they were spectacular. Obviously the food was one of my favorite things about the trip.

(5) People were interested in who they were with. Very seldom did we see someone walking, waiting, eating or driving with cell phone in hand and in use. People were actully talking to whoever they were with! They were admiring the sights! They were doing one thing at a time… Oh that we could learn to become less dependent on technology for communication and enjoy the company of who we are with for the moment. I definitely enjoyed and appreciated consistent face to face time with my husband without texting, email or call interruptions.

And so some resolutions for my 2009 based on what I observed in Paris:

DO more (I’m working on an exercise plan with a friend tonight); make healthier food choices (and be content with smaller portions); take a few extra moments in the morning to put myself together (included in being ready and confident for the day is being sure I spend quality time with God in the mornings); enjoy the presence and conversation of who I’m with without the cell phone interrupting (I’m sure there will be an occational time for exceptions).