An American in Paris

	"Hands Across the World" emanated from a friendship that all started from a simple E-mail message after Laurie had visited my site and read a feature on my grandparents (which also appears on this site). As you have already guessed, I am the one who lives in Paris, France with my French wife and daughter. My name is Terry and I am a 28-year-old who is an American (lost) in Paris.

Paris is known as the "City of Lights" and is quite romantic for tourists and lovers. Of course, once the romantic novelty wears off, Paris is just like any other big city that includes a decent public transportation system, a lot of traffic and pollution, lovely monuments and bridges, glorious views, and majestic museums. Therefore, Paris is a cultural haven full of artistic surprises and pleasant beauty. In addition, there is great coffee (unlike the watered down version in the U.S.) and marvelous food.

	I met my Parisian wife while she was on vacation in Los Angeles, California (where I was born and raised). Since I was still in college at the time working on my BA in Human Development, we kept a long-distance relationship going for about a year until I graduated and got my degree. After graduation, I flew to Paris to marry her. Since then, I have been teaching English and enjoying fatherhood. Although at times it is rather difficult to be away from my homeland, I take comfort in knowing that I have a supportive family and wonderful friends in the U.S. Now, I also have a fantastic friend who is dear to me over the Internet.

"Hands Across the World", from my point of view, is based upon the concept of friendship. We simply want to share aspects of our lives and friendship with you, and hope, in turn, you may interact with us and share facets of your lives and treasured friendships as well.