I Remember Paris

It was so very long ago
almost a lifetime.
We were caught
inside the magic glow
of Paris in springtime
where love and youth
have no defenses.
I painted your portrait
in my tiny studio.
My God you were beautiful.
In the small room
the incomparable voice of Edith Piaf
sang the only song for lovers
La Vie en Rose.
My brushes found color and form
I had never found before.
I think your portrait
was my best work.
even today after all these years.
I have been offered large sums
of money even when I was hungry
and unknown.
But I would never sell it.
It was painted with my heart
how can you sell the first time
you fell in love.
Today I am an old man
I sit in my studio
sipping a glass of Chablis
looking at your portrait.
Something is missing of course
I flip the player on
Edith pours her soul once more
as her
La Vie en rose 
completes my mood.