Almost There

April 28, 2022

Having calmed my nerves, before boarding my flight, I woke up ready for landing in Paris with a fresh new perspective and outlook on what was to come.

Arriving early morning and not picking up a connecting flight until 4:30 pm, I have some time to explore! Given that Covid restrictions are still in effect, my exploration will be limited to the fabulous Charles de Gaulle airport. I'm okay with that!

I step off the plane, head to customs & immigration, and make my way to the airport shops. But, not before having my carry-on bags completely unpacked by French authorities 🥴 and I spent a good 30 minutes, folding and repacking luggage. Once all packed, I can breathe a sigh of relief and head over to the shops where I spend no more than 2 hours. I am not a shopping fanatic.

Lunch in the lounge

Having explored the shops in the terminal, I make my way to the Air France lounge and ready myself for a sensory experience - food, wine, relaxation, and cleanse. Upon arrival to the lounge, I provide my ticket and passport and head into the vessel that'll not only be my space of relaxation for the next few hours but also, will provide nourishment, and a spot for washing away the turmoil of overnight travel.

In this place, I'd gather my thoughts, enter into a new state of being, and prepare my mind for the adventure that was waiting for me, on the continent from where my ancestors once walked. This was the moment that I began to get excited - excited about the possibilities of finding new life. This was a moment when he came to mind. I began remembering the wrinkles in his forehead when he smiled, the sound of his heartbeat, and the size and feel of his hand as he cradled mine into his. I smiled.

I spotted a space to carve out for myself and my luggage. I'd grab a bite of the delicious lunch being offered and grab a glass of wine to enjoy. Let the relaxing begin! After lunch, dessert, and a few drinks, I'd make my way into one of the napping areas for a short meditative rest.

Nap area of Air France lounge in Paris (CDG)

After my nap, I made my way to the showers so that can feel nice and fresh for the short two-hour flight from Paris to Tunis. I walked into the spa-like shower pod and locked the door behind me. I turned on the shower to warm the water to the perfect temperature. I opened my music app to set the mood and played smooth R&B. I unrobed and hopped into the shower. As I began to wash away the travel soil, Chaka Khan's, Through the Fire made its way to my ears. Singing along, I began to give the best shower concert of all time (in my head anyway 😆). The lyrics began to resonate with my soul and I think of him, of us, and smile.

Gate Selfie

I emerged from the shower smiling and singing - 🎶 "ain't nobody dope as me, I'm just so fresh and clean..." 🎶 I emerged with a clear mind ready, finally ready,

to start my adventure in Tunisia. I do a 3-minute make-up, no make-up look, dawn my body in the sweetest perfume, dress, then leave the lounge and head towards the departure gate just in time for boarding.

The anticipation of our reunion builds...