When it comes to European travel, my husband and I are late bloomers. Living on the west coast, and newly married we did a few trips over the Pacific Ocean to explore Asia. Then my husband was promoted and we entered the ‘limited time off’ phase of marriage.  No more far off adventures. But, more recently, we are back in the saddle and once again enjoying intercontinental travel!

Our Europe travel began with Spain, Gibraltar; and on our last adventure we explored Iceland and France.  To my traveling mamas, what is the one thing Spain and France are not lacking? … Cathedrals! Every town seems to have one and they are all stunning and marvels of architecture especially for the time period they were built!  But if I am being honest, sometimes it can feel like if you have seen one cathedral, you have seen them all.  Depending on the trip and the number of cathedrals we have already visited, my enthusiasm for this particular sightseeing activity can wane.

Now that I have set the proper background….  Allow me to continue with my story.

Our France adventure was magical. We spent the first four nights in Paris, and then rented a car and spent five nights traveling through Normandy then up and over to Reims, finally ending in the Champagne region.   For the scenic portion of the trip it meant several hours in the car almost every single day. France may look tiny, but it sure takes some serious windshield time to explore! 

Rouen to Reims was our longest travel day. We made it to Reims early evening. Due to the later arrival, our ‘must see’ list had to be adjusted.  We walked around and happened to stumble upon a … CATHEDRAL.  Shocker! But this cathedral looked dark and a little dingy. I know, I know mamas, I should cut it some slack since construction started in the 13^th century!!!

We walked up to the Cathedral and then partially around the exterior. Hubby asked if I wanted to go in.  My initial response was “Nah”.  (For reasons I so eloquently explained above) It really did look a little scary from the outside.  My wise hubby pressed a little harder, and I easily caved. BONUS, there was no admission fee. We were meant to see the inside of this scary looking cathedral.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT WAS WAITING INSIDE MAMAS?  This was not just any ‘old’ cathedral. This was THE cathedral where 31 of France’s KINGS were crowned!! I was literally strolling down the aisles where royalty walked!  

Did King Charles X and I just share a speck of dirt?

I still can’t believe my initial response was NAH!!!  I almost missed this most amazing piece of history!!!  

Mamas, have you NAH’ed anything recently?  If I learned anything from my almost faux pas it is that I need to get out of my comfort zone and welcome the unexpected more often. Break free from the security of my coveted and controlled schedule. We need to TRY and listen to the wise loved ones in our life.

The next time a wise someone asks “Are you sure?”…  Stop for a minute, and think… Are you?

Will you miss your royal moment?