October has drifted into Los Angeles, marked mostly by our collective decision to drink pumpkin spice in everything and squint up at the occasionally overcast sky. LA fall is more of a mood than a season—but we’ll take it, along with the sweaters.

There was a time when hopping on a plane was my go-to move for inspiration. But this summer, with no travel plans, a looming deadline, and a 12-year-old to keep entertained, I had to get more creative with my routine. Inspiration wasn’t as far away as I thought.

From the moment Mom and I decided to go to Paris, our plan was simple: no plans, no shopping. No lines for the world’s best macaron or must-see exhibits. We strolled right past the gorgeous storefronts and did not formally tour the architectural masterpieces. We aimed to appreciate Paris in our own way, letting the city lead us.