Germany - Day Ten- Final Thoughts

The photo is from last night's farewell party. The first photo is our whole group and the photo on the right is Claudi's family with Tyler and I.

I slept in a bit, ran at 7:30 my last time around the loop. I made this jaunt each day to keep myself in check. I'm glad I did, it felt good each morning to accomplish the task. Claudia and I ate our mueslix and yogurt on the terrace, one more recipe I'm taking home. We met at the Hiking Club to caravan. Once at the airport security gate, I couldn't believe how quickly the tears flowed as the hugs started. Claudia had to say goodbye to Adrian who would be traveling back to Webster with us to spend the summer. Lots of emotions running high this moment. The flight to Amsterdam was a bit delayed, so we took off on a dead run to catch our plane. They were boarding already, but we were fine. Just relieved to get in our seats. The rest of the trip home was uneventful, once again, all the luggage arrived. This whole trip has been wonderful. The language barrier was not an issue as most of the people we met spoke English. I was impressed at how many people asked if I would return one day and if I enjoyed my stay. Another point that I noticed was how much value there is in learning English and prefecting it through experiences with Americans. This is important to the Germans I met. Claudia and I were a perfect fit. I so enjoyed her beautiful home, her friendship, family, and company. I am hopeful this trip is an option when Hannah is seventeen. I would love to join her and bring Ron as well on this trip of a lifetime. As the saying goes, "Friends Forever". This is a sincere wish of the Dewangen Friendship Club members. I am so thankful for this amazing opportunity.

Germany - Day Nine

The first photo is the castle we toured and the second is Tyler and I in front of the castle.

Our final touring day. When we first arrived, I never dreamt I'd feel as close as I do towards our Dewangen hosts. I knew I'd be impressed with the castles and sights, but the added bonus is the new friendships that I've developed. Such a warm feeling in my heart. I only hope we can treat the group that comes to Webster with as much hospitality, kindness, and generosity. Today we went to the Castle Hohenzollern, which was actually built in the 1800's as a tourist draw. It was used by various kings as a retreat home and office over the years. It was a thrill to see the display of suits of armor, china, goblets, a crown with a saphhire the size of a walnut, and diamonds bigger than I've ever seen, medals, and other treasures of the monarchies which ruled this area of Prussia. As I walked from room to room, I tried to picture the scenes of day to day life. We ate our picnic lunch at the base of the hill in perfect view of the castle. The hit was a candy bar similar to a KitKat called a Duplo. Tonight would be a late night, our farewell party at the Tennis Club. Herman grilled burgers and we feasted again on potluck dishes and lots of chocolate pretzel treats scattered along the tables. We enjoyed a photo show of all the pics taken over these past days. Many great memories. The students were good sports in a few party games. They had to eat a marshmallow chocolate with no hands. Before I knew it, I too was part of the eating contest. I did not do so well and was unable to finish. Luckily it went unnoticed though. They ended the night with a fierce game of Musical Chairs. The goodbyes began that night as Tony and Herman would not be joining us at the airport. Genuine tears of gratitude and friendship were shared by many. Last night of German sleeping.

Germany - Day Eight

Monday 6-20-2011
A most delightful day. I ran at six, expecting to depart for the amusement park at 8, but was pleasantly surprised with a morning message from Claudia that Monika had proposed a last minute alternate venue for the ladies. A day in town to shop, have lunch, and relax. Hmm a day filled with lines for roller coasters or ladies day. Hands down, an easy decision was made. Chris and I both wanted to shop for some chocolate to take home. We spent a few hours in Aalen, browsed the shops, went to the grocey store, and had a superb lunch together. I had the maultaschen served within a scrambled egg, another version, just as delicious. We stopped in a newer church that features the artwork of a priest, Seiger Koder. The Stations of the Cross, were striking, full of vibrant colors. Another holy site. We topped off our day with coffee and chocolate at Claudia's. I indulged in a nap while Claudia prepared the dough for the French version of pizza and crepes. The entire group was coming to her home for a meal tonight. The students arrived with smiles and many roller coaster stories. This was the only day we spent apart from the kids, but I was totally comfortable at this point going our separate ways. Everyone had a great day where they were. After lots of pizza and crepes, the kids played foosball and then went to Sandi's for a movie. Our days together are drawing to a close.

Germany - Day Seven

Sunday 6-19-2011
We were off for a ferry boat ride into Austria. I kept thinking of the Von Trapp children in The Sound of Music. Lindau was about two hours away. What another lovely setting, Lake Constance, huge with many glorious mountain ranges surrounding it, is on the southern German border between Switzerland and Austria. We could see the Alps from both countries. I would have loved to hike a bit, but the group was content with a steep 5 minute walk to a viewing area. The clouds were working on putting a thunderstorm together, but only a few sprinkles developed. Following the boat ride and hike, we walked down to a new opera stage which was on a floating dock. It is actually a huge scuplture, about 30 feet high of a young boy in the water. His hand stuck out of the water and he appeared with a large book, which also made up part of the stage. Interesting. As we ventured back, we stopped for a cup of coffee at a sidewalk cafe and somehow Monika was separated from the group. We realized she was missing, sent Fidel and Tony out on a search mission. It was nearly an hour before she was discovered waiting for the group by the vehicle. Apparently, she was watching the ducks, and missed the group heading into the cafe. "Alls well that ends well", as Ma Ingalls would say. That night, the group was going out for a special chicken dinner, but Claudia offered to cook another traditional Swabian dish, spaetzla, a special noodle dish at home instead. I gladly took her up on the kind offer. Her son Timo demonstrated how to cut the batter into thin strips right into boiling water. The noodles cook rapidly and float to the surface. The more modern technique is to use a utensil similar to a potato ricer, which creates uniform round noodles. We feasted on the cheesy noodles. I watched carefully, took notes and would like to attempt this dish at home. My pasta loving kids would devour this! A tasty salad, great wine and wonderful company made this meal perfect. We took a stroll around the neighborhood after supper. Later, it was reported that I missed the best chicken anyone has ever eaten, but I'd say I did fine on my end too.

Germany - Day Six

The photo is of the monestary we visited near Nordlingen.

Saturday 6-18-20111
Off to Nordlingen, the only city remaining with a complete city wall still intact. Our tour guide was an American, and she and I visited between her "talking points". The city has a love for swine due to an incident where an enemy planning to invade had bribed a guard to leave a gate open, but a maiden heard a pig in the night, went out to investigate and discovered the open gate. Her cries awoke the townspeople and prevented the attack. There are ceramic pigs of every color and design at nearly every shop's entrance. The cobblestone streets were lined with shops and cafes. The students were treated to McDonald's for lunch and were going on to an indoor pool to swim for the afternoon. Tony offered to take Chris and I to a nearby monestary, actually where Fidel's uncle lives as a monk. It was absolutely stunning. Gold plated paintings covered the ceiling. The many side altars reminded me of the Basilica in DC. Kneeling in prayer there was a special moment. Back in Dewangen, I went to Tony's with Chris to catch a quick nap, and then I was also able to go to Mass with Tony and Lilly. Although in German, I could definitely follow the Mass parts, recognizing the Gloria, Holy Holy, Lord's Prayer, and Lamb of God. Several of the hymns had a familiar tune as well. It was a Mass I will always remember. At home, we ate a delicious meal of pasta, shrimp and cream sauce. Later, we attended the Midsummer Festival at the Hiking Club, complete with a bonfire. One more splendid German day.

Germany - Day Five

The first photo shows the spiral staircase - my toe and purse handle appear at the bottom. The photo on the right is the amazing view from 161 meters (500 feet appx) atop the world's tallest church tower.

Friday 6-17-2011
The city of Ulm and the tallest church tower was today's destination, over 750 steps, most of which were in a spiral staircase. I had a case of the dizzies several times, but made it to the top for an incredible view. The landscape, dotted with villages,fields, and green rolling hills was amazing to see from 160 meters high. Ulm's city center was large and open with many inviting shops. We ate our sandwiches along the way and headed to the waterskiing park. This is quite different than skiing at Enemy Swim. There was a cable about 20 feet high that circled the perimeter of the lake, attached to steel platforms at each end. It was sort of like a ski tow rope. There was a platform on the dock and a fellow was manning the ropes. When you were ready, he gave the green light, handed you the rope, and you waited for the tow rope to take off. The kids all did well. Tyler and Alexa both agreed it was challenging because it didn't go as fast as they are accustomed to behind a boat, so it was a bit sluggish in the water. Still great fun though. The only problem is if you fall anywhere along the way, you have to swim to shore and walk around the lake back to the dock. Luckily when our kids dumped it, they were quite close to the dock. There was a great patio with umbrellas, and the grown-ups just enjoyed snapping pictures and watching the kids. Back at home, we were invited to another Friendship Club family, Norbert and Sorg's home for a barbeque. Prior to that I went to choir practice with Claudia. I sat with the altos and did my best to follow The Lord's Prayer which was in German. They also sang a piece from The Lion King and a song from the musical Cats, the last two in English. It was just another peek into a typical day for Claudia. I enjoyed myself. On our way to the barbeque, we took a slight detour to see a church that Claudia thought I'd like and we walked through a garden area with a labyrinth made of hedges. There was a wooded passageway, with leaves and branches intertwined to create a green archway. Lovely peace and beauty here. Claudia is such a terrific hostess, so willing to go out of her way to show me little treasures. Arriving a tad late for the barbeque was fine. We arrived just ahead of the rain, so the gathering was moved indoors. Another beautiful modern home with such friendly hosts. A few glasses of great wine and some decadent chocolates made my night. The students were heading to the disco, which made me nervous. But those under 18 must leave the disco promptly at midnight, and Sandra was heading over to pick up the kids a bit before 12. Claudia and I said our goodbyes as well and Adrian was home just shortly after us with a good report, no student incidents. Another sigh of relief, I have been so pleased, all the students have been terrific, showing respect, proper manners, and kindness. So far, so good!

Germany -Day Four

The first photo is the clock tower at the Munich Rathaus and the photo on the right is one of the local beer drinkers in the Hofbrahaus.

Thursday 6-16-2011
Munich today. We drove to a nearby town to catch the train into the city. We experienced our first pay toilet in the train station, and learned that many public bathrooms charge a fee. Many people, lots of expensive shops, and a wonderful rathaus clock tower. We climbed another church tower and oh what a view. We ate at a sidewalk cafe and I soaked in the atmosphere. We found some gift shops for the needed t-shirt purchases, and I found my traditional deck of cards. Thus far, we have a deck from Glacier, Alaska, Chicago, and now Germany. It's a fun way to remember our trips and when we pull out a deck for a hand of Rummy or Whist, we end up reminiscing about our travels. We had to visit the Hofbrahaus, a famous beer garden and restaurant. Frequent visitors have their own booth complete with a personalized sign and a tiny locker for their beer steins. Several groups of Germans dressed in the traditional clothing, creating a festive mood. That night Claudia made a Swabian dish, maultaschen, a bit like cheese filled ravioli. Delicious and such good company with Claudia, Sepp, and Adrian.

Germany-Day Three

Wednesday 6-15-2011
We adults were asked if we wanted to join the students for a climb today. I was up for an adventure so said, "Sure, why not!". I am glad I didn't know exactly what this climbing would involve, because I probably would not have agreed it I had known beforehand what became crystal clear once we arrived, we were at a high ropes course complete with helmets, harnesses and zip lines. There were platforms all throughout this wooded area with different rope challenge courses set up for each. My heart was racing, not sure if I could do this. We managed the first run, and once I learned to trust my harness, the zip lines were a blast. It was exhilarating, nerve racking, and empowering all at the same time. The stress of maneuvering through the ropes, the relief of stepping onto the platform and then the sinking feeling when we looked at what we faced next kept us on edge the whole time. I had completed three courses when Tyler convinced me I could handle one that was mostly zip lines. I was feeling pretty fine, actually enjoying the rides. I am glad I did not wimp out, it was a thrill to say the least! We ate our sack lunches on the patio and enjoyed the forest around us. The evening barbeque was at Fidel and Monika Hassler's, Tyler's host family. Wonderful food, lovely patio, and most enjoyable company. They even had a campfire complete with s'mores, German style. I couldn't help but think of Enemy Swim that night, wondering if Ron and Hannah were also sitting by a fire. We have been on the go so much, I must admit, I have not had much time to think about home. Another terrific day.