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.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
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.
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!
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!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
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.
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.
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.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Germany - Day Two
The first photos is Tyler with his host family, Fidel, Tyler, Monika, and Nicklas. The photo on the right is of Claudia and I in Aalen.
Tuesday 6-14-2011
I slept well, in the morning I was commited to keep up my running regimen, knowing my body would appreciate it. Claudia began to tell me a running route I could take, "Turn right at the end of the drive, then another right around a loop...", but I think she could tell I was apprehensive. I wasn't comfortable just hoping I'd find my way home. Memories of getting lost as a child in Amery came to mind. Would not be a great way to start the trip - lost in Germany with absolutely no command of the language! She graciously agreed to bike alongside as I ran at 9. What a beautiful path, rolling hills lush with trees. Small villages in the valleys. The road was narrow, about 10 feet wide, with no markings or shoulder, it felt a bit like an overgrown biking path. We made around a simple loop past a little farm, with a group of goats grazing. I opted for a second loop which took us just outside of the village and back around. It was close to 3 miles and felt good to move the bones. After a shower, we had breakfast of Knuspermusli, a granola or mueslix cereal that Claudia makes herself, with plain yogurt and fresh strawberries from her garden. The yogurt comes in a small jar similiar to a mayonaise jar at home. These slight differences are entertaining to me. It is a delight to experience regular day to day life here. We met the group at the Rathaus, which is the City Hall in Dewangen, and from there drove on to Aalen for a walk about the city. We met with the mayor and he greeted us with warm wishes. A newspaper photographer did her business with us as well. We were to be in the paper the following day-The Americans have arrived from Webster. The students went on a walk to enjoy some puda - a favorite among the youth that is somewhat like a pita. Herman took us to Mike Grosek´s favorite establishment in Aalen for a beverage. I chose Fanta, which is like an orange soda- quite sweet. From there we drove a bit and saw a few sights, with a tour of the city. The streets are narrow, buildings and homes are built within inches of one another. We also visited a coal mine and learned of the strenuous, often dangerous work of the miners. At one point in the tour, the guide lit a candle allowing us to see the conditions workers faced, having to sort through chunks of rock determining by the touch, due to the poor lighting, what type of coal or rock it was. Then she blew out the candle to demonstrate the utter darkness the miners faced if their candles accidentally were extinguished. I held my hand just inches from my face and could not see it. The miners were instructed to wait in the exact spot where they were working if that happened and at the end of shift, when they did not appear, their fellow miners would enter the mine with candles to retrieve them. What a cold, dark, and unnerving wait! An interesting tour, the students enjoyed the hard hats and orange Superhero capes, our safety gear for the trip. We ended our day at a Pizzaria. The biggest pizza ever, about 25 inches in diameter. The students were smiling! This was the first night I learned that the Germans linger over their meals, often visiting for an hour or more at the table, enjoying their time among friends. The students wanted to go to another restaurant to have some time alone. As they left, I must admit, I was a bit anxious, this being the first opportunity for the students to be unsupervised by adults, but I was assured all would be well. Claudia invited the adults to her home for visit. It was a joy- wonderful rose´ wine, of course beer for Herman and Tony, and pretzels, along with much laughter. It was a fine time to get acquainted. As we sat at the table in candlelight, I was feeling quite positive this was going to be a wonderful trip. I felt comfortable and completely welcome in Claudia´s home. We had already shared stories of our families and ups and downs of life. My first full day in Germany was excellent.
I slept well, in the morning I was commited to keep up my running regimen, knowing my body would appreciate it. Claudia began to tell me a running route I could take, "Turn right at the end of the drive, then another right around a loop...", but I think she could tell I was apprehensive. I wasn't comfortable just hoping I'd find my way home. Memories of getting lost as a child in Amery came to mind. Would not be a great way to start the trip - lost in Germany with absolutely no command of the language! She graciously agreed to bike alongside as I ran at 9. What a beautiful path, rolling hills lush with trees. Small villages in the valleys. The road was narrow, about 10 feet wide, with no markings or shoulder, it felt a bit like an overgrown biking path. We made around a simple loop past a little farm, with a group of goats grazing. I opted for a second loop which took us just outside of the village and back around. It was close to 3 miles and felt good to move the bones. After a shower, we had breakfast of Knuspermusli, a granola or mueslix cereal that Claudia makes herself, with plain yogurt and fresh strawberries from her garden. The yogurt comes in a small jar similiar to a mayonaise jar at home. These slight differences are entertaining to me. It is a delight to experience regular day to day life here. We met the group at the Rathaus, which is the City Hall in Dewangen, and from there drove on to Aalen for a walk about the city. We met with the mayor and he greeted us with warm wishes. A newspaper photographer did her business with us as well. We were to be in the paper the following day-The Americans have arrived from Webster. The students went on a walk to enjoy some puda - a favorite among the youth that is somewhat like a pita. Herman took us to Mike Grosek´s favorite establishment in Aalen for a beverage. I chose Fanta, which is like an orange soda- quite sweet. From there we drove a bit and saw a few sights, with a tour of the city. The streets are narrow, buildings and homes are built within inches of one another. We also visited a coal mine and learned of the strenuous, often dangerous work of the miners. At one point in the tour, the guide lit a candle allowing us to see the conditions workers faced, having to sort through chunks of rock determining by the touch, due to the poor lighting, what type of coal or rock it was. Then she blew out the candle to demonstrate the utter darkness the miners faced if their candles accidentally were extinguished. I held my hand just inches from my face and could not see it. The miners were instructed to wait in the exact spot where they were working if that happened and at the end of shift, when they did not appear, their fellow miners would enter the mine with candles to retrieve them. What a cold, dark, and unnerving wait! An interesting tour, the students enjoyed the hard hats and orange Superhero capes, our safety gear for the trip. We ended our day at a Pizzaria. The biggest pizza ever, about 25 inches in diameter. The students were smiling! This was the first night I learned that the Germans linger over their meals, often visiting for an hour or more at the table, enjoying their time among friends. The students wanted to go to another restaurant to have some time alone. As they left, I must admit, I was a bit anxious, this being the first opportunity for the students to be unsupervised by adults, but I was assured all would be well. Claudia invited the adults to her home for visit. It was a joy- wonderful rose´ wine, of course beer for Herman and Tony, and pretzels, along with much laughter. It was a fine time to get acquainted. As we sat at the table in candlelight, I was feeling quite positive this was going to be a wonderful trip. I felt comfortable and completely welcome in Claudia´s home. We had already shared stories of our families and ups and downs of life. My first full day in Germany was excellent.
Germany - Day One
Going to Germany has been in the back of my mind since the Friendship Exchange started some years ago. I had been hoping it was something Tyler wanted to do so I could tag along for the ride. And what a ride it has been. We left Webster with a bit of nervous butterflies, hoping the trip would be a success and the students would all be sensible. We had several conversations in the months prior informing the kids of the expectations and standards set. I was keeping my fingers crossed that I was not being naive about what would actually transpire once we were in Germany. As I sit now in Claudia's office, having already spent 7 days here, without a doubt this trip has been truly successful. The kids have been wonderful, respectful, appreciative. They are using their manners and it is "gutt" (good). Claudia and the other parents are nothing short of amazing hosts. They have filled our days with adventure, laughter, friendship, and the most stunning scenery. While my words will not come close to describing our days here, I will do my best to tell my story.
Sunday 6-13-2011
Our flight to Minneapolis was uneventful and brief. We had just the right amount of time in Minneapolis to find our gate and wait to board. Our next leg of the journey took us across the Atlantic to Amsterdam. Eight hours in flight was a long time in a not so roomy seat. We boarded about 10 PM and we all tried to sleep. Not so much. The stewardesses started moving down the aisle about 2 AM with a chicken dish. The kids thought they were mashed potatoes, but it was a scoop of thick bread stuffing. I dozed here and there, awaking once to see land. Each seat in the plane was equipped with a GPS map which was displayed on a screen. At that moment, we were flying over Ireland. It was at that moment, that it hit me. I was going to Europe! Excitement like a child. Gazing at the clouds from above is a site one never tires of. I was content just watching the landscape pass by. Then again about 6 AM, they arrived with an egg biscuit. The jet lag already seemed to be taking effect. It would take a bit to adjust to the time change. Arriving in Amsterdam, we had nearly 2 hours to rest and people watch. Some tried to nap where they could - on the floor, in the chair, anywhere to catch a doze. The last portion of the flight was short taking us into Stuttgart Germany. To our delight every single piece of baggage appeared on the carousel so all was good. We no more than stepped out into the lobby when Herman the German appeared with an entourage of fellow countrymen. Each person took the time to shake hands and say "Hullo" - Hello- to each one of us. This personal greeting upon arrival I would soon discover is engrained in the culture. We moved outdoors and in the parking lot Herman explained it was tradition to serve beverages and pretzels right then and there. Christine and I each received a small bottle of champagne. We had our first taste of the bubbly water. Soon we were all dispersed into vehicles and on our way to the famous Dewangen, about an hour away. We were all a bit dazed with a case of official jet lag, but we all knew our adventure was beginning. We went to the Hiking Club to meet with another delegation from the Friendship Club. For some reason, I knew which woman was Claudia right away. We visited a bit. I chatted with Mayor Margit. My lack of German seemed not too big of a problem as most of the people speak some English. We did not stay long, as we all needed a real bed, having been traveling for 16 plus hours. At Claudia's, I was shown my room and promptly went to bed. Claudia's home was a modern beautiful home with lots of natural wood and lighting. I took but a few notes in my travel journal and tried hard to fall asleep quickly.
Sunday 6-13-2011
Our flight to Minneapolis was uneventful and brief. We had just the right amount of time in Minneapolis to find our gate and wait to board. Our next leg of the journey took us across the Atlantic to Amsterdam. Eight hours in flight was a long time in a not so roomy seat. We boarded about 10 PM and we all tried to sleep. Not so much. The stewardesses started moving down the aisle about 2 AM with a chicken dish. The kids thought they were mashed potatoes, but it was a scoop of thick bread stuffing. I dozed here and there, awaking once to see land. Each seat in the plane was equipped with a GPS map which was displayed on a screen. At that moment, we were flying over Ireland. It was at that moment, that it hit me. I was going to Europe! Excitement like a child. Gazing at the clouds from above is a site one never tires of. I was content just watching the landscape pass by. Then again about 6 AM, they arrived with an egg biscuit. The jet lag already seemed to be taking effect. It would take a bit to adjust to the time change. Arriving in Amsterdam, we had nearly 2 hours to rest and people watch. Some tried to nap where they could - on the floor, in the chair, anywhere to catch a doze. The last portion of the flight was short taking us into Stuttgart Germany. To our delight every single piece of baggage appeared on the carousel so all was good. We no more than stepped out into the lobby when Herman the German appeared with an entourage of fellow countrymen. Each person took the time to shake hands and say "Hullo" - Hello- to each one of us. This personal greeting upon arrival I would soon discover is engrained in the culture. We moved outdoors and in the parking lot Herman explained it was tradition to serve beverages and pretzels right then and there. Christine and I each received a small bottle of champagne. We had our first taste of the bubbly water. Soon we were all dispersed into vehicles and on our way to the famous Dewangen, about an hour away. We were all a bit dazed with a case of official jet lag, but we all knew our adventure was beginning. We went to the Hiking Club to meet with another delegation from the Friendship Club. For some reason, I knew which woman was Claudia right away. We visited a bit. I chatted with Mayor Margit. My lack of German seemed not too big of a problem as most of the people speak some English. We did not stay long, as we all needed a real bed, having been traveling for 16 plus hours. At Claudia's, I was shown my room and promptly went to bed. Claudia's home was a modern beautiful home with lots of natural wood and lighting. I took but a few notes in my travel journal and tried hard to fall asleep quickly.
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