8/31/18 – Yellowstone – Day 6

Today was long but amazing.  Everyone seems to have gotten their second wind… or more likely we are adapting to this higher altitude.   Air Thinner = Everyone tired until they adapt.   Today though everyone was able to go and to keep going.  We started at 8:30 AM and got back at the apartment around 10:30 PM so an absolutely full day of awesomeness.

First, we had to fuel ourselves up for the day, so we ate breakfast at the Old Country Restaurant again.  Same waiter as yesterday, Brock, same great food, same affordable prices.   Loved it!   We then headed out to tackle our day. 

Our first stop was Gibbons Falls.   They were not extremely high or free standing, but they were still really pretty.  We didn’t do the ½ mile hike down to get a better view because I knew we had several walks planned for the day, so we just took a few pictures from the overlook and headed on.   Something in the air at this stop really aggravated Jack’s eyes so we swapped drivers, so he could put some drops in and close them for a few minutes while we headed on to our next stop.

Artist Paint Pot came next.  Here we walked the mile loop to see the different geyser pools, the colors from the various bacteria in the waters was quite pretty.   However, I think once you’ve seen one group of them you may have seen them.  It was a nice walk though and the air was cool.  A piece of this walk was several stairs and Mama handled them like a trooper.    You can’t ever say she lets her body limit what she does … she pushes it to the limit that is for sure.     The view off the top was outstanding and the pools were pretty, so it was worth it.

We then headed down to the North Geyser Basin which was supposed to be a 3-mile hike, but part of the trail was closed so it was probably closer to 2 maybe 2.5.     We did the Porcelain and Back Basin sections of this.   At one-point Mama got the shakes, but something, I believe the Lord, had prompted me to make sure we had snacks on this leg of the journey, so we stopped at let her eat a bit before heading on.  The Lord does look after us, that is for sure.   

Once we got on the Back-Basin section part of it is in the forest with benches.   We sat at one for a while to rest and enjoyed watching the chipmunk run around.  I hope I got some good pics, time shall tell.   There are chipmunks everywhere here and they are super-fast and seem to always be moving.   They are so cute.     By time we got 2/3 of the way through this walk though we were all done with geysers…   I was getting that irritability I get when I’m hungry (even though I don’t feel hungry) and I was really glad to see the car.   I am a Snickers’ commercial!

We then booked it to Gardener, the town right out side the north entrance, to get some food.  We passed so many beautiful things on the way and I kept promising myself we would stop on the way back, so I would go eat.  It was so hard to pass them though…   We ate at Yellowstone Pizza and it was delicious!   I highly recommend it if you are in the area.      The food was good, and it overlooks mountains and meadows.   During lunch several pronghorn came to munch in the meadow; it was just nice to sit, eat and soak it in.

After lunch we began to head back and hit the sites we missed, but of course we had to take pics of the Roosevelt Arch first!  That is like a right of passage for visiting Yellowstone I think.   By this point my agenda has kind of been thrown out of the window, because its 4 PM there are so many gorgeous things I want to stop and see.   We stopped on a whim and hiked a bit in a meadow and hill to get a view of the valley below.  We stopped and climbed on rocks, climbed down to rivers and generally just had a fantastic time.   The scenery in the northern section of the park is so dramatic and breathtaking.  This section is by far my favorite part of Yellowstone so far.  I could sit and just be here…

We also stopped by Mammoth Springs on the way back.  When driving through the area with all the buildings there was an entire herd of pronghorn including a male with a full head of antlers just hanging out in the grassy square they have in the center of the “town”.   We stopped and got a ton of pictures.  He was so majestic, and it was so odd to see him in town surrounded by people…  He charged another pronghorn at one point, trying to mate her I believe completely ignoring the people watching him and the cars passing by.   They are used to seeing us, that is for sure.

We then stopped by the Hot Spring formations themselves and they were very unique and pretty.   Almost like frozen waterfalls in places, though the water was still flowing over them even if you couldn’t see it.   They were also varying colors which was neat…   there was a girl that was following us in her car through the drive through part.  Following as in … going to see the same things at the same time, not in the stalker sense.   Anyway, I could tell she was serious in the composition of her photography, but I could also tell she was new at it.   I don’t know something just told me…   she was taking pics of a flower with her standard lens and I asked if I could show her something…   I got out the Macro and let her use it for a couple of pictures.   She was elated – I think she will become quite serious in her photography.  There was just something about her, the way she waited to pose the shots, the angles she was trying to get…  I hope I helped to inspire her.  When her work is worth millions maybe she will remember the lady at Yellowstone?  

After the springs and stopping a zillion times to take pictures of the scenery we headed back to the apartment.   Twice on our ride back we had to stop and take pictures or at least slow down because a Bison was walking quite literally down the middle of the road.   He was taking his sweet time and knew without a doubt he owned the road and everything in it.     It was surreal – here you are driving along and then a Bison, which is quite large, is just there, in the middle of the road walking by you like it’s a no big deal.   Amazeballs!

Once we got back to town we stopped at a few of the souvenir shops to get our picture frame, Christmas ornament, Jack’s hat, etc.… the obligatory souvenirs that we love.  It’s funny—many people go for expensive stuff?  Jack and I like the cheap souvenirs that are probably made in China… ah well.   We also grabbed a couple of jackets that we saw – they seem to be well made and the price was good so win!

By this time, it was 9PM and we still have not had dinner, so we headed over to the Otter Bar.  Brock, from Old Country recommended it to us this morning.  We ordered our drinks and asked for straws to be told in no uncertain terms the do not have straws.   It immediately didn’t sit right, not that don’t have straws as several people are cutting them out (though they could get paper straws and not have an environmental issue), but the tone and way he said it.   When he came back to get our order I asked him “why they have no straws” to which he explained the environmental issues we were already aware of.  I politely suggested he give an answer like that next time someone ask for straws and it would go over much better with his customers.    He apologized and after that seemed to be much nicer and approachable.  

We had jalapeno wontons as an appetizer per Brock’s suggestion and OMG they are good!  We should have just ordered 3 helpings of those – they were that good.   Our food was good too, but those were amazing.   As we were going to leave I asked for a paper cup for my tea to be told they don’t have those as well.  He laughed and said he has no idea why though… It was a good meal, but my yelp review will mention the lack of to go cups.  If I pay $3 for a drink I expect to be able to take it with me…   The food was good though and the service was also fairly decent after our first communication, so it was a win.

Now we are back at the apartment and everyone is asleep.   We check out of here tomorrow and will be sleeping in Cooke City tomorrow, which is on the east side of the park.   Tomorrow is also a busy day but fun – we are doing a wagon ride / dinner!   I’m looking forward to it and will let you know how it goes.   Until then sleep well Blogland!

8/29/18 - Yellowstone Trip – Day 5

I think I’ve killed them.  Both Mama and Jack may be crying for mercy at this point – Jack said, and I quote “this vacation is kicking my ass.”   I’m trying not to laugh, really, but you can’t come to a place such as this and just be lazy – you have to go – you have to see – you have to experience it.   That being said, I relented at 5 and we came back to the hotel for a bit, skipping a few things on the plan.  I had us planned to be out till closer to 9, but I may have been feed to a Bear if I said that out loud this afternoon.

All that being said, today was wonderful.   We started the day off with breakfast at a local place called Old Town Café.   The gentleman who waited on us was extremely nice and outgoing.  Breakfast was delicious, filling and it didn’t break the bank so win!   They were advertising a huckleberry drink that is alcoholic.  I’ve never had huckleberry’s before and asked him about the berry itself.  He gave us a miniature lesson on what they taste like and how they are harvested.  Did you know they can’t seem to cultivate them to grow outside of the wild?  I found that fascinating.

After dinner we headed into the park intent on hitting a scenic drive.  However, before we even were in the park 5 minutes there was a bison right beside the road.   We stopped and took lots and lots of pictures.     They are so massive! 

After the picture fest we headed in to do the Firehole Canyon scenic drive and to see Firehole falls.   We were able to climb down a bit and explore the falls which was cool.  I love getting out in it vs. staring at it from a guard rail.    The falls aren’t necessarily high, but they are massive and the raging.   You can’t hardly talk over the roar of them and the way they snake through the canyon is impressive.    And the views of the overall scenery…  I have no words.

We then headed on to Fountain Paint Pot which has a ½ mile loop you can walk around to see a very unique landscape filled with mud pits, boiling water pits and rocks in formation.  It was colorful and alien.  There were dead trees here and there in the landscape that just added an even more alien feel to it.     I could see a Star Trek episode being filmed here…

We then went to see the Mid-Way Geyser Basin and walked the mile loop around it.   Again, extremely colorful pits of boiling water with steam rolling off of them.  Like walking into a sauna if the wind blows it your way.   Which is a unique feeling given the wind itself is cold… odd to describe, but you are cold, then in a sauna, then cold again with the wind that will flat bowl you down sometimes.  The ground is a rainbow of oranges, yellows, greens, whites… and the water is so clear in places it’s see through.  It looks blue or turquoise depending on the pool.    It is so unique.  While I enjoyed them, I wouldn’t want to come back.  Once you’ve seen them – you’ve seen them.  

Whereas the area I saw in the Grand Tetons I could stare at for days, weeks, heck years….

After Mid-Way we went up to the Old Faithful area and grabbed lunch at a fast food grill area they have.  I ate a hotdog and some chips, nothing fancy, but it was filling.   This is what I am used to at national parks… Yellowstone and the other parks want to take a lesson from its sister the GT 😊

After lunch we went and waited for Old Faithful.  We only had to wait about 20 minutes and she blew her top as expected.  It was neat, but I don’t know, not all that and a bag of chips for me.  Maybe, because I’ve seen it on TV so many times?  Maybe because I knew exactly what to expect?   Not sure.  I can say I’ve seen it and the views around it were astounding.

After watching the old girl blow we headed on to the West Thumb Geyser Basin.   This one is unique in that it backs up to a lake with snow covered mountains on the other side.  It was gorgeous.   We enjoyed walking around taking pictures and visiting.   This was another 2/3 of a mile…   While walking we saw three really interesting things.   

1. A lone read headed duck in the lake fishing.  We enjoyed watching him for quite some time.  
2. Bubbling pools at the edge of the river… Picture a boiling pool of water, a pristine, clear lake and a snow-covered mountain all in the same photograph!   
3. Three Pronghorn came up, 1 a baby, and started drinking the water and eating in the middle of the walk way.   We spent over 30 minutes just photographing them and could have spent an hour or more taking pictures as they were laying down in the field by time we left.   I mean they were no more than 20 feet away, surrounded by humans that they walked in the middle of and did not care.  It was awesome!

Once we made it back to the car it was 5 PM and everyone, including myself, was dragging a bit.   So, I asked the question – do you want to finish our plans or go back to the hotel.  They both yelled hotel!   I could have taken a 20-minute power nap and kept going, but we are here to enjoy ourselves not kill ourselves, so we drove the hour or so back to the hotel and rested.

After an hour or so we headed to dinner.  We ate at the Old Town Café again because they were great this AM and because Mama wanted to play with the slots.   The same waiter was there and immediately greeted us.  He remembered us from this morning which was a pleasant surprise.  He apparently is married into the family that owns it which is why he was there so long today.  We came in this morning at 7:45 and by this time it was close to 8 PM.  

Dinner was ok, I’ve had better, but it was good and not overly expensive which was nice.  However, the service was really good, and they had huckleberry salad dressing and ice cream.  I had both and loved both!!!!   I need to find some of this stuff to take home with me – it is so good.

Now we are back at the apartment and everyone is going to bed early.   We missed out on the Gull Point Drive, Yellowstone Lake Hotel, Fishing Bridge and the Lake Butte Lookout.    Next time I hope I can squeeze these back in.   This trip has made me want an RV so bad.  One I can live in for 6 months and just go from place to place.   Spend a month and then move on.    Maybe we will figure out how to do this in a few years…. I’m going to start planning now!

Tomorrow is another day of me trying to squeeze ever moment I can in, so I guess I’ll go to sleep myself.   Hope all is well with you blogland, God Bless.

8/28/18 Yellowstone Trip – Day 4

First of all – today is our 14-year wedding anniversary, 17 years as a couple.  It seems like yesterday…  We enjoyed the day, but it wasn’t very “anniversary” related, just had a good time.  We may do a nice dinner or something when we get home.

Today has been enjoyable.   We started the morning by packing up the car as last night was our last night in Jackson WY.   We got packed up and were at the breakfast place by 8 😊 I am not a morning person, but I knew that in order to see everything we wanted to do we need to have some long days so a morning person I have forced myself to be.     Coffee was required though, so we headed back over to The Virginian restaurant, got some coffee and ate breakfast.  Our service was just as good (if not better) today and the food was yummy.

We then headed into The Grand Teton National park.  The skyline this morning was dramatic with blue skies and clouds almost touching the ground.  It was ethereal.     Our first stop was the Chapel of the Transfiguration.   This church is a log building that is still used for Episcopalian services in the summers.  The bell was hung in the 1800’s and the window inside the church looks over the Tetons.   I doubt I could pay attention to a sermon given that…

We then headed down for a brief walk to Menor Ferry and his outbuildings.   We meandered around, looked at the river, the ferry and how it worked and his store house.   It is such a nice morning to be out and about – a briskness in the air that is just yummy.  I got some pictures of some of the local plant life with my macro lens, I have had it for a while, but never remember it on trips so I can play with it.  Well this trip I’ve gotten to play, and it’s been fun.

After this we headed up to Jenny Lake.  We had to use the porta-potties given the buildings are under construction and I was dreading it, but it wasn’t too bad.  Thank goodness.   After taking care of necessities we hopped on the ferry to go across Jenny Lake.   The air was plum cold when hitting you at 25 MPH…. But the ride wasn’t long, only about 10 minutes, and the mountains are breath taking.   It snowed last night up in the mountains so they all now have a layer of snow dust that just … there are no words, it is magical.  I’d love to see it during a winter with all the snow, everywhere, but I’m not sure I could deal with the temperatures.   I’m cold at 60 F.

Once on the other side of the lake we begin the hike up to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.    It’s about 3 miles round trip, but most of it is up hills.   Mama was an absolute trouper and came right on up with us.   We stopped several times on the way to take pictures of the mountains, fauna and just to rest, but the climb was worth it.   About ½ way up there is a cascade waterfall that was fun to crawl around on the rocks to photograph.  We then went a little bit further up and got to see a bear.   It was so exciting… he was off in the distance so no real danger.  I tried to get some pictures, but he kept hiding behind the trees… I hope I maybe got at least one to prove we saw him or her.  

After the excitement we headed on up.  Mama decided to stop part way up and we didn’t know how much further, so she got comfy and we went on… 200 yds later was Hidden Falls.  So, we went back and collected her, so she could see it.  They are quite impressive, and they are hidden back in this alcove so its like sitting in a secret garden.   After we took a few pictures Mama told us to go on up to Inspiration Point while she sat and watched the waterfall, so we did that.   I’m glad she didn’t try to attempt it as it was pretty steep and not even.  The view through – the view was amazing.  You could see one of the mountains so clear and it was covered in snow.   The view of the valley was also … just ah.   I loved it.   

After we took a few more pictures we went down, collected Mama, and headed back to the Ferry.  Overall the Jenny lake hike took about 3 hours and I would gladly have spent 5 taking pictures, but I know there is a lot for us to see.

Once across the fairy we did the Scenic Drive around Jenny lake, which again is just awe inspiring.  After which we headed up to Jackson Lodge for a bite to eat at the Pioneer Grill.   The food was good, and the atmosphere of the grill is neat.  It’s all counter service and it still has a 50’s feel to it – it was opened in the 50s.   There was a manager dude who kept talking to his employees in an annoying way, but other than that we really enjoyed it… Oh wait!  I forgot, the cookie… We had a cookie/ice-cream desert and I think I could have thrown the cookie and knocked someone out with it.   They ended up comping us the cookie… I should have kept it for a weapon, I think it would have worked.  Security at the airport may have confiscated it though – too dangerous.

After lunch we started meandering our way up to West Yellowstone.  We stopped all along the way and got to witness some pretty impressive wildlife.  At one of our stops along the Snake River we saw a Bald Eagle in flight… I got a picture, not good as I had the wrong lens on, but I can at least say “hey look what we saw” 😊 We also saw several Pronghorn.  I was able to get my 400MM lens out, so I hope I got some good ones… We actually saw 2 of them mating, it was an unexpected moment.   It was funny – the guy kept chasing the female and she kept walking off.   Jack got video that I think will be fun to watch.

We also saw 2 waterfalls inside Yellowstone that were not on my agenda, so they were a nice surprise.  One was just me and Jack as Mama wanted to stay in the car.  Jack and I hiked back and climbed all over the rocks near it – I think it is the closest I’ve ever been to the base of a water fall, it was neat and there was only one other family there, so it felt private.   I enjoyed it.

We are now in West Yellowstone in an apartment rented by VRBO.  I really like this town, and everything seems to be in walking distance which is nice.  We walked down this evening for dinner at Bullwinkle’s – I stuck with a chicken finger appetizer as I was not really hungry, but we did enjoy it.     Now everyone is crashing as we need to get up early in the AM – I’m pushing to be leaving apt by 7:30 on our way to breakfast – lots to see 😊

I hope you all are well.   Till tomorrow may God watch over and keep you!  

8/27/18 – Yellowstone Trip – Day 3

Today was a rainy day so our itinerary was a bit busted.   But we enjoyed some of the day – I think maybe we needed this day of rest, so God just put it in for us… even though I would have rather been out and doing, I think we are all tired.  The elevation change has put a whammy on us, but the scenery makes up for it.

We knew it would be rainy, so we slept in a little bit and then headed over to a sit-down breakfast joint called the Virginian.  The host looked exactly like one of our waiters from last night, but he said it wasn’t him.   It could be his twin I tell ya…   Breakfast was good – just good ol’American breakfast with no frills.  I loved it.   The waitress was attentive and the food yummy.

After breakfast we drove down to the National Museum of Wildlife Art.   I’m not much of an “art” person, but some of the pieces were astonishing.  I had hoped they would have a photography exhibit, I mean photography is art and it would fit with wildlife, but no.  It was all paintings and sculpture.   The museum is not large, and we were in and out in about an hour, but it was a nice distraction from the rain.

Afterwards the sun had come out, so we thought we may try to do one of the smaller hikes (less than ½ mile) I had planned so we drove into the park… less than 10 ft in the bottom fell out so we turned around and decided to grab a nap.

We all took some much-needed rest time and then went out to explore Jackson.  It was raining a bit, but the sidewalks are covered so we wondered in the stores and looked at the expensive cloths and art.   We bought a few pieces of inexpensive souvenir stuff before heading out to see the Jackson Hole Museum.  Unfortunately, it is closed on Mondays.  It was originally slated for tomorrow afternoon in our schedule, so I didn’t think to recheck the time… ah well.  

So, we headed back downtown thinking we would enjoy the shootout they do at 6, but right before 6 it started raining again so we went to grab some dinner instead.  We ate at Jackson Drug which is an old Drug store they have made into an ol’ time soda shop with burgers and milk shakes.  The food was delicious.  One thing I’ve noticed out here – the portions are HUGE.  Everything I’ve been served could feed 3 people.     They had a 3 IB burger on the menu and if you could eat it in an hour it was free, otherwise it was $65.    To say the least, I didn’t try.

We are now back in the condo – everyone is resting and doing their own thing.   We check out of here tomorrow and head into the Yellowstone area.   Most of our day will still be in the Grand Tetons though, we will be doing today’s agenda tomorrow- currently we are only at a 10% chance of rain and it’s my prayer that goes down to 0 for the rest of the trip.   

I pray you all are doing well, and we shall chat with you all again tomorrow, until then be blessed!

8/26/18 - Yellowstone Trip - Day 2

Today was all about the Grand Tetons, but before we could go there we had to fuel ourselves.   We went to a local restaurant here in Jackson.  It was one of those where you order at the bar and sit down.  My food was good and so was the coffee, nothing to write home about, but it was an enjoyable experience.  The best thing was the fresh squeezed OJ - Yum!

We then headed into the park.  First stop was the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center where we watched an intro video.  I was a little disappointed as there is supposed to be a phenomenal view after the video where they open the curtains and blinds, but they didn't open :(   Jack went and looked behind them and said it was about the same as we had seen so I guess I didn't miss anything.  It was just the main reason we stopped here was for that.   The video was informational though and it's always nice to have an intro before exploring.

We then headed over to Mormon Row.  There are old homes from the original Mormon settlers here and it was neat to walk among them with the view of the Tetons behind.   I think I got some good pics, time shall tell.

We then did a fabulous nature walk at Schwabacher Road.  It is only about a mile round trip, but it was down by the river with a view of the mountains.  It was just peaceful - I really enjoyed it, may be my favorite of the day... hard to tell.

We then stopped at several overlooks including Snake River and Oxbow on our way to lunch at the Signal Mountain Lodge.  We ate at the Grill - the food was good, the service good and the view amazing.   We all split a blackberry pie for dessert, that I don't recommend.   

After lunch we drove up Signal Mountain to see the views at the top.  Mama went to one overlook with us but opted to stay in the car as we took the short walk to the 2nd one.  The views up here are just fabulous - the mountain is a little hazy, though local say it's the clearest it's been in weeks...  Regardless gorgeous.  There is still snow on the top and the locals say they are expecting it to snow more up in the mountain tops tonight.  Should be interesting to see if we can see a difference when we go back.

We then walked around in the Willow Flat area and we also stopped and walked over the Jackson Dam and down to the shoreline near it.  The sound of the water rushing was nice and relaxing.   By this time, I must admit I could have used a nap.   We left the dam area and headed toward out reservations for dinner.

For dinner we did a cruise out to Elk Island followed by a picnic.  The touring company grilled steaks and trout out on the island.  There were also home fried potatoes, baked beans, salad bar, watermelon and dessert.  Plus, it was all you could eat.   I only ate one plate full and I was stuffed, but the food was good.  The staff was fun and relaxing, both on the cruise and the dinner.   And the view - oh my - we were so close to the mountains and it was just breathtaking.  Sitting out in the open, eating, visiting and staring at one of God's most majestic creations.   Amazing!   The wind was brutal, but we brought jackets and I even brought my blanket, so it was all good.

After dinner we hiked up to the top of trail they have for a view of the water and mountains.  The trail was exceptionally steep, and we left Mama's O2 in the car given it was just dinner and we didn't expect hiking.  She decided to hike it anyway - she had to stop along the way and she is tired, but she did it!  Sheer will power that one.  It was worth it though; the view was really great and just being out in it... out in a spot that the general public that is just driving through doesn't see - it was neat.   I'm determined on this trip to see more than what you can see from the road and while we aren't doing the 8 to 25-mile hikes that the park has (no desire to do that) and we aren't backpacking and camping or mountain climbing, we are getting out.  We are walking some trails... 

As far as wildlife viewing today, not much.  We saw some Bison, but so far off that even my 400MM lens wasn't much help.  We also saw horses and a chipmunk.   And on our way home this evening after the cruise/dinner we saw a deer as she ran out in front of the car with her 2 babies.   Slamming of breaks, clinching of butt cheeks and a few swear words, but all is well.   We were going speed limit and Jack was being cautious, so crisis adverted - my butt cheeks are still a little clinched maybe, lol.

Tomorrow rain is in the forecast, so we will probably stick close to Jackson and so some inside stuff - will need some revamp of itinerary, but no one wants to hike in the rain - at least not sane people.   Time for me to get some rest though.  Very active day and the thinner air is affecting us all with our energy levels.  Jack and I are both tired - Mama has been pretty good about staying on her O2 (which tells me she can tell the air difference too, otherwise she would be irritated I was asking her to put it on, lol).   Sleep well blogland.

8/25/18 – Yellowstone Trip Day 1

Today has been LONG and filled with travel, but overall it was pleasant.   We left the house at 5:30 – I had planned to go by Dunkin given they claim on their app to be open at 5 AM, they aren’t – they are open at 6.  I had already ordered via the mobile application, so I’ll have to contact them to get a refund, but that will be a battle for another day.   We headed to the airport to board our flight to Atlanta.     As always Augusta airport was a breeze and we got to do TSA Precheck due to Jack’s status, so it was even easier – WIN.

We grabbed a coffee/breakfast snack at the airport and chilled.   Once in Atlanta we headed to our gate to chill some more.  Jack went and got me DD coffee (bless him) and Mama and I grabbed us all some Chic-fil-A.   We had a quick breakfast there knowing our flight would take us through lunch and I hate to pay for plane food…   I had to go have my coffee remade by DD, but they did it without a hassle.   Apparently after the sugar detox a regular coffee with cream/sugar taste like syrup, I downgraded it to 2 sugars just to cut the bitterness given it’s hard to fly with heavy cream.   It was yummy.

We then hopped on our flight to Salt Lake – the planes keep getting more uncomfortable, but the flight was uneventful and the staff friendly.   Once in Salt Lake we grabbed our SUV rental car and headed to the most important place – WALMART.   LOL, I know you are thinking, what?  That’s your first stop?  But alas I’m being a bit frugal and wanted to get us some fruit and drinks there before going into the tourist areas… I bought a $5 cooler that goes in my luggage and some ice packs, so we will have cool drinks during the day without paying tourist prices for them – WIN 😊

Once the practical stuff was done we were on our way – 4 more hours to arrive at our destination.   That being said, the 4-hour drive was peaceful and so scenic.  The scenery here is just amazing, it’s so different than what we are used to and seeing the river meandering through the mountains is amazing.   The cattle and horses are everywhere, the scrub brush plentiful and the air crisp.   It was a little hazy today, but with my sunglasses it was pretty clear – I bet when it isn’t hazy the colors are extraordinary though.

We stopped about an hour out of Jackson to grab some food, because I couldn’t wait any more.  We at this Mexican place – we wanted it to be quick.  It was called La Cabana Del Tequila. We had planned to eat out of a restaurant that is in a refurbished school bus, but it was closed due to owner health issues ☹ I pray he is ok.   The restaurant we ended up eating at had fantastic food, but the service as really, really slow.  The people were kind, but it was SLOOW to get drinks, take orders, even be acknowledged really.     They also have a “seat yourself policy” which is great, but the restaurant and finding a table is a bit confusing and after we were seated it was amusing watching other people meander into the 2 or 3 rooms tables were set up in to find a spot.  They need a hostess and they need more servers, but the food was really good!   They didn’t have cheese dip though, which was odd…

Now we are here, in the condo we’ve rented for a few days and I’m about to crash.  I only got 2 hours of sleep last night, no rest on the trip over and it’s now 10PM here – 12 AM in GA.   So, I’m out.   I’ll update you on our adventure tomorrow.  In the meantime, I pray you are having a blessed day!  Remember, when God is for you – who can be against you?

Wait on The Lord

I had an ah-ah moment last night that I wanted to share in case it helps you. Sox, my 17-year-old cat, was drinking some water. However, the bowl was almost empty, and I knew it had been down for a few hours, so I picked it up from under him to freshen it up. Now Sox – he sat and patiently waited – knowing I would bring it back. Now his brother Patches never learned this lesson. We lost him last year, but I remember – if I picked up the water bowl he would look at me and then run off. He wouldn’t wait… It hit me that God had a lesson in this for me… How often do I start to do something or start to go after something and God takes it away? How often do we pitch a fit and run away in snit instead of waiting patiently for his timing…? See when God takes something away it is only because has something else for us. He is trying to teach us, he is trying to grow us, or maybe he is just trying to refresh our water cup… Maybe we are drinking from the wrong source for that day or moment. Sox, knows, I am going to put something down better than what he had… I need to learn that God is going to put something down better for me than what I had or what I was pursuing. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” Laminations 3:24

Germany Day 19

Today was fun - a lot of riding - but fun.   We got up, ate breakfast and left the hotel by 8.  We then headed down the clock road where there are stores decorated with Cuckoo Clocks everywhere.  We stopped at one super nice shop that had a lot of hand made German stuff including Cuckoo's and Nativities - we splurged and ordered both.   They are being shipped to the house and I'm super excited.  If you remember I wanted to buy a nativity the other day and the guy insulted me telling me I could not afford it... so this felt right.  It was a little bit less, but more importantly the people were helpful and friendly.  

After making the credit card scream we drove on for a bit, stopping at a truck stop for a bite to eat, and then on to Heidelberg.  I really enjoyed Heidelberg.   They have a castle that has been damaged but you can still walk around and in some of it - I actually think it is one of my favorites.   The sweeping views off of the top, the fact we could just meander and take pictures.   I really liked it.  They also have a gigantic beer keg - so big you can dance on it.   Not sure I get the appeal, but it was certainly novel.   The town has a river running through it with a lovely water break they have in manufactured into it.    You can see this from a pedestrian bridge that also gives a lovely view of the castle.    I loved the castle and the bridge.  I loved walking the shops and just really enjoyed the city.  It may change my mind on Germany - we just maybe went to the wrong parts?    

It started raining on us right as we were leaving so we were all huddled under an awning waiting for the bus.  Once on we drove straight to the hotel where we had a nice going away dinner and got the bags ready for our flight home tomorrow.  

I'm have enjoyed our trip.  There was a lot more riding / traveling than expected in Germany and there were ups and downs, but we have had a good time.   Mama has a DR. appointment scheduled for Friday to do an assessment on the arm and determine next steps.   Jack has agreed to go with her - I want someone in the room with her and I know if I see that cast off and the beautiful colors underneath I will either pass out or vomit, so Jack is going.     I will be at the house recovering from the travel.  It's been great but I'm ready to be home.

Tomorrow is really just airplanes so unless something amazing happens this will be last journal entry for this trip.  I hope you have enjoyed traveling with us and until next time stay safe and God Bless.

Germany Day 18

Today showed us the German country side that everyone raves about.  But don't let me digress... I know you want to hear about the entire day right?

I woke up in the middle of the night not feeling well so I was moving slow this morning.  Jack took  Mama down to breakfast and I laid down for a bit longer.   I came down about 7:20 and wanted some of the French Toast.  When I went to get it there was none - when I asked the wait staff if they were going to make some more I got a very gruff "NO" and that was it.  There wasn't much else and my stomach wasn't 100% so I stuck with coffee.

We then left for Neushwanstein Castle.   This was the castle that inspired Disney and it was gorgeous from the distance.   The king designed it himself, but never got to live in it as he died before it was complete.  It was very pretty with amazing paintings and architecture throughout.  They said no photos, but I sneaked a few - not as many as yesterday as these guards were more watchful, but I sneaked and got some.

We had gotten a ride up to the castle but had to walk back down - the walk took about an hour.  The walk down was nice as it had stopped raining for the most part, but it was a deep - damp - cold so I was ready for the bus and the heater.  I thought we were early so I went to the bathroom and got some cash out - only to get on the bus and realize I was 5 minutes late, oops :)

We then road over to Lake Constance.  The drive over was gorgeous, but it was rainy as well - I am sure glad we have a great driver.   Once there we saw the lake, but didn't stay long as it was cold and rainy.  We walked quickly to a restaurant and sat down.   The service was good as was the food.   We had burgers and really enjoyed ourselves.  It was an inside restaurant but birds had flown in the doors so that was neat to see.  

After this we went back to the bus and drove to another short stop to see a church and a view of the lake.  It was raining and I had just warmed up ... given it was really more of a rest stop we opted to buy a couple of souvenirs and stay on the bus.     We then drove to our hotel in the Black Forest and are resting up for tomorrow.  

Last real day of our trip before we fly home is tomorrow -here is praying it's sunny and warm :)

Germany Day 17

Best day of the Germany portion of the trip so far and maybe of the entire trip.   We got up and ate breakfast (didn't have to check out of the hotel) and then headed to Zugspitze station - it is a spot where you can view Zugspitze Glacier at 8,530 feet high.   We didn't see much of the glacier itself as there was significant cloud cover, but OMG it was amazing.  White as far as you could see - it was cold, but we wore warm cloths so it wasn't too bad.  I had on two pair of jeans, 2 shirts, a sweater and a jacket...

The air was so crisp up there and it was so breath takingly gorgeous.  The wind was blowing which would also take your breath quite literally.  I'm really glad we brought Mama's O2 machine where she could enjoy it.  

We got some cocoa in the cafe and thawed out for a minute - then went out to enjoy it some more.   We then hopped on the cable car and road it down, which was nice as well - the condensation from the morning had dried up so we could see out of it - amazing.

We then came back to the Oberammergau and walked to the village itself.  We checked out the theater where they hold the Passion play every year and then went to grab a bite to eat.  After lunch we did some souvenir shopping before heading back to the hotel.

We rested for a few minutes and then headed Linderhof Castle.  This castle is original and the only one King Ludwig actually lived in.  It was fashioned after Versailles, but was a poor imitation.  That being said it was still amazing, especially the outside.  The fountains and the way they flowed into the building was really well done.

We had a guided tour of the castle.  The castle was gaudy as is Versailles.  I enjoyed seeing the gold inlay, the painted walls and the statues.  They said no pictures, but I sneaked and took several... I know I'm a bad person.  I think my favorite room was the bedroom and my favorite item was the glass peacocks.   They also had an ivory chandelier that was nice, but I feel bad about the fact it was ivory - even if it is old.

We then came back to the hotel and took a nap, went to get some Italian food, and are resting up to tackle tomorrow.   We are all getting a little tired with the go-go-go schedule, but today was worth it.   Amazing day !

Germany Day 16

Every day you are on vacation is a good day and today was no exception.  I will say though - in all fairness - I've had better tours.   I've traveled with Globus 5 times now and this is the first time I've been disappointed in the trip for a number of small reasons that add up to just ... well not satisfied.   I won't dwell on that here though - just want to be up front and honest for my memories.  I also know it is coming across in the journal-ling some so I want to remember why when I'm 50 wondering why these journals don't sound all rosy and stupid happy like they normally do.

So on to happier things - what did we do today?  Jack put our bags out by 7 and we got up to start getting ready.   We were running a bit late so I ran our hand held luggage down by 8:15 while everyone else finished getting ready - we don't leave until later today as we opted out of the concentration camp excursion, but our bags needed to be on the bus so we didn't have to keep up with them.  

We then headed down to breakfast and ate at a leisurely pace since we had some free time.   Then we headed out to go see the Oktoberfest Parade.   We saw that they were lining up and ended up right where it started.  I wish later we would have moved as they were actually coming in from 3 different streets so Mama and I only got to see about 1/3 of it, but we saw a ton.  Jack scooted under the rope and went to get a better view, but Mama and I decided to just stay.   It was drizzling rain the entire time so it was a little comical - me trying to take pictures while we tried to keep myself, the camera and Mama's arm dry.  The parade was really neat with people all dressed up and horses pulling buggies.   It was very unique and LONG.  I think it's longer than the Macy's parade on Thanksgiving - we sat and watched it for 2 hours and it still had a little bit to go.

We then walked down to the MarienPlatz area and grabbed a bite to eat.   We ate at a local German restaurant, but I got a hamburger.  It was good though a bit expensive - they did have English menus though so that was a win.   We then wondered around the square a bit, everything and I do mean everything except a tiny tourist shop was closed.   Apparently that is the norm here on Sunday's.  I really wanted to buy a coat because 50 degrees is a lot colder than I thought it was, but everything was closed.

The square is pretty though - they have 2 town hall buildings the old and the new.  The new one is Gothic and really cool.  The old one is actually newer because it was rebuilt after the war was pretty as well.  We took some pictures of the outside and then it was time to meet with our group.

We were supposed to take a walking tour of Munich ... instead she spoke in the square - without using the Whisper system that makes it where you can actually hear her and then we went to the bus for a driving tour.   It was basically this is this building, this is that one, while we drove by them - it was so boring.  I fell asleep... I woke up when Jack showed me the Olympic stuff - that we didn't get to stop and see.

We then stopped at this palace which was amazing ... but we only got 20 minutes to see it.   I was PISSED let me tell you.  I wanted at least 30 to 45 to see it and take pictures of the amazing gardens. It took 10 to go to the bathroom and we were gong to be on the bus for 2 hours after this...so not going was not an option for most of us.  

We then drove to Oberammergau.  The drive up was gorgeous - we are getting into the Alps and the mountains are just amazing.  We are staying tonight in this little hotel in the Passion Play town of Oberammergau.   The scenery is amazing and we have a free night tomorrow night to walk around, I'm really hoping the shops stay open a bit later.  

While I'm not happy with this tour on a number of levels, we are still having a great time and I'm really looking forward to our trips into the Alps tomorrow.

Germany Day 15

It seems like we live on the bus these days, but we had a good time today  We got up, ate breakfast and left the hotel by 8 AM.   We rode for about 2 hours to Rothenburg.  This town was really great little town.  They had a lot of great shops with Christmas ornaments and cute items.  We spent a good hour walking around and looking and then sat and ate a croissant and a coffee.  

On the hour they had this completely corny thing whee these dolls poke out of a building and pretend to drink a beer.  It goes back to something that may or may not have happened years ago where a army commander told the mayor he wouldn't destroy the town if someone could drink a liter of beer in one go - so the guy did and saved the town.  Now ever hour on the hour a fake doll pops out and drinks a beer - it is the corniest thing EVER.

As we were leaving the town we realized we missed the absolutely best street -- I wish we would have had another 30 minutes to walk down that street - ah well.

We then rode down a bunch of back roads and saw some gorgeous country side before landing in Munich.   We got to our rooms and headed to dinner.   Dinner was nice and now we are back at the hotel getting ready to go to sleep.     So another fairly lite day - honestly I didn't know Germany was big enough to have us in the bus this much, it seems we've crossed the entire country twice, lol :)

Germany Day 14

So today was really a travel day so this blog will be pretty lite.   We got up and had to have the bags out by 7.  So I got up at 6:30 and went to help Mama, then came back and helped her then came back and got ready myself.   We then headed down for breakfast which was ok before getting in the bus to head across Germany.

We stopped at a gas station along the way to have a bathroom break - then drove on to Leipzig.   Leipzig is where Bach lived.   We went to the church where he is buried and also where he lead worship.  It was a pretty church and we enjoyed walking around it.  They also had an open air market that we walked around a bit.   

We started to go into a Germany Cafe to get lunch, but they didn't speak English at all and we didn't feel like getting something unexpected so we ended up going to McDonald's and got a hamburger.  Mama tried to order it with only mayo, lettuce and onion - she needed up getting a plain hamburger... we couldn't get them to understand.   It was hilarious.

We scarfed the food down and then ran to catch our bus.   The driver wasn't there yet so I ran back and I mean RAN to go to the restroom before we left.

We then drove for a while longer before stopping at another convenience store for a 30 min break.   They had a machine that would cut and juice an orange - making fresh OJ and putting it in a 20 oz bottle; it was awesome.   I really liked it and wish we had them in the states.

We then drove on to Nuremberg.  We really wanted to see this town as they said it was the toy town of Germany, but we arrived after all of the shops closed which was a bit of a disappointment.   We rested a bit and then drove to the top of the city where there was an incredible view.   We then strolled down through the town taking pictures as we went.  The town was an old fortress and it is surrounded by a wall.   I enjoyed meandering down taking pictures though I wish we would have had a bit more time.

We then ate dinner before walking a back to our hotel - I really wish we had a little bit longer here.   I'm super tired though and look forward to whatever tomorrow holds.   

Germany Day 13

Berlin - that is what today was all about.  I got up at 6:30, got dressed and went to help Mama with a few things given the bum arm.   I then came back to finish getting ready myself before heading down to breakfast with her at 7.  Jack was still in the shower so we went on just so as to not hurry.

We walked into the hotel dining room and several of the group came to check on Mama through out our meal which was very nice.  Breakfast this morning was ok, but nothing compared to the one yesterday.  However, it filled us up and prepared us for the day.

We then loaded on the bus and met our local guide.   She was very stylish with her hair half hanging down in her face and healed boots on that I would kill myself if I dared try to stand in them much less walk.   She is the daughter of the guide we had yesterday and I was dreading having her - her father was a bit monotone and I just really wanted a bit of personality today.  Well, I shouldn't have dreaded anything - she was fabulous!   She told great history about everything, was interesting, she strayed here and there to give us extra bits or to go off on a tangent.   I absolutely loved having her today.

This morning was an optional excursion to Potsdam.  On the way, as i twas a bit out of town, she pointed out some Berlin highlights and then proceeded to give us the entire royal history of Prussia.   The first palace we went to in Potsdam belonged to the Prussian royalty and was also where the Potsdam Conference was held in 1945, Cecilienhof Palace.   The palace was under construction on the outside but it seemed pretty and I was able to get a few photographs.  

On the inside you had to buy a photography permit - which I did.  I hung back far enough to get lots of pictures without people in them, but could still hear her through our ear pieces.  I love those things as they allow me to wonder and not miss the dialogue.  The interesting thing about this place is that the caretakers really guard it very closely -- but it isn't all that pretty or unique on the inside.  Apparently the guides can't say certain things or they get into trouble and the guards are trained to ease drop and report back.   We had a woman guard follow us most of ht time and I found her very unfriendly and intimidating.  She kept watching me but I paid for my permit by golly and I was taking my pictures.

We saw each of the big 3's desk along with the conference room.  The palace was chosen by Russia and they made sure they had their pick of rooms and desk.   The conference room was round and it was very important these 3 looked equal vs. one favoring the other - stupidity - just walk into a room and sit down, who care's who walks in first?  I don't understand how that pomp and circumstance every helps anything.

Once we finished here we drove to Sanssouci Palaece to see the gardens and take pictures of it's outside.  I thought it was really pretty and enjoyed strolling around it.   The Prussia King who helped bring the people out of famine by teaching them how to eat the potato king is here.  He is known as the potato king and people leave potatoes on his grave.  He is buried with his 10 dogs whom he loved greatly.   The gardens and fountain were quite pretty and it was an enjoyable stop.

We also drove over Glienicker Bruckle, a bridge that connects Potsdam with Berlin.  It was used to make spy swaps between the FBI and the KGB during the cold war.  After leaving Potsdam we drove back to our hotel to eat and rest before the next excursion.

We decided to eat at a all day breakfast place behind the hotel called Chips.  We walked in and there isn't a sign that says seat yourself so we waited... and waited.  Jack tried to ask a lady who looked like she worked there, but he was ignored.  So we waited some more.  Finally this lady, the one who ignored Jack, came over and said sit anywhere except if it says reserved.   Well, I sit down at the booth to which she says - RESERVED.   I didn't know - the sign was tiny.  So we sckoot over a table and wait.  I may have called her a bad word under my breath.

Then we waited some more.  Finally Jack said they have 5 minutes and we are leaving.   A minute later the waitress came over and took our order.   And we waited... several and I do mean several minutes later they bring us coffee and some soda no one has heard of.   The coffee is very much like English coffee, which means nasty!  I had to ask for cream twice and even then it was frothy and weird.

The food they brought was pretty good - very good actually.  We all had the lumberjack, which consist of eggs, bacon, french toast and a salad.

After eating we went back to the room and took a 20 minute power nap.

We were then up and at it again.  We hopped back on the bus with our guide and our tour director to go hear about the WW2 history up to the falling of the wall.   It was interesting to hear about it from her as she lived through the Berlin wall collapse - she was a child in 1990.    I learned some things and enjoyed the commentary.    We stopped at a timeline near a 1 mile section of Berlin Wall that is still standing.   We stopped at Checkpoint Charlie and also a Soviet Memorial for the WW2 soldiers that was in a very nice park.   It was interesting - however by time it was over I was dragging.

We came back upstairs to our room and crashed.   We had a good hour nap and then got up to go to dinner.

Dinner was at a local restaurant that obviously caters to tour groups.   It was so cramped you could barely move - which sucked.   It was also really loud.   However, the food was incredible and you could drink as much as you wanted - anything you wanted.  We stuck to soft drinks but several in our group got quite happy.  Before long they were all up dancing in this restaurant you could barely move in.   It was fun to witness - I would have loved to dance, but it was just too crowded.  Mama laughed at us.   The room is dancing - drinking - laughing.  Jack and I are translating the place mat with an app on his phone and having a great time... it takes all types I guess.   It was fun.

Now we are here at the hotel and need go to breakfast at 7 in the am so I'm calling it a night.  Sleep well blogland.

P.S.  Mama is doing great - didn't let her slow her down at all today.

Germany Day 12

Today was an eventful day that included an ambulance ride, a cast and some grateful people that it isn't more serious.   First and foremost, to ease everyone's minds,  let me say everyone is fine - nothing life threatening.   So... want to hear about our day?

First we got up, had our bags out by 8 and then had breakfast at the hotel.  The breakfast was amazing!   It was a buffet and I filled up on fruit and extremely crispy bacon - I love crispy bacon.  The coffee was also good.  We sat with a nice couple from Minnesota - we didn't get to know them very well and I still don't know there names, but they were nice.

Afterwards we went upstairs to get our bags and then headed out to face the day.   Our first stop was the train station where we caught the ICE from Dusseldorf to Berlin.    If you are curious ICE does not mean ice - it stands Inner City Express.  Mainly it is a high speed passenger train.   We were up to 150 MPH at one point - it was much more in KM which makes it even more interesting when you look up and think "oh crap that's fast" lol.   We rode in first class and I'm grateful given the trip was 4 hours.

The ride was exceptionally smooth!  Mama slept and Jack and I just enjoyed the down time.    We had waiters in the coach and they brought our lunch to our seats which was nice.   We had Chili... it was awesome, but did not taste like chili I'm used to.  It had a lot of beans in it, was not spicy and had a different flavor, I really liked it.  

After 4 hours of down time we left the train and headed for the bus.   On the way out you ride up an escalator, turn right and then ride up another one.  Because of the number of people turning there was a slight build up at the top of the first escalator ... but the first escalator doesn't stop, so we almost had a major pile up with bodies falling everywhere... it would have been bad.   But people got the clue and started moving faster - catastrophe avoided.

So then we walked out of the train station to go to the bus.   The roads and the sidewalks are the same color and the lips are very small maybe 3 inches?   Just enough for Mama to trip over... she fell and when she fell she fell hard - she landed full body plant on the sidewalk.   She scrapped her head a bit and banged up her arm, but she seemed ok.  She quickly got up, said she was fine and we headed to the bus.   Let me say that the group jumped into help very quickly and were all concerned.  We have a nurse here with us and she was extremely helpful, but Mama said she was fine and we went on.

A bit later she said she thought she had hurt her arm, but it would still bend so I honestly thought it was just bruised.  I told her if we need to stop and go to the hotel or the hospital to say the word...she said she would, but for now she wanted to continue.     At the end of the tour, 4 hours later, as we are getting to the hotel she asked to go to the hospital to have it seen about.

I spoke to our tour director, who spoke to the reception desk, who called for a "doctor".  I was planning an getting a Uber to the hospital... however when they said they called the doctor I thought maybe doctors here made house calls or something.   No... 10 minutes later up rolled an ambulance.   The first paramedic did not speak English, but Pasquale our tour guide helped.   They got her arm stabilized and off we went.  At first they said only I could go in the ambulance which we would have dealt with, however then I hopped in the back with her - I think they wanted me up front, but that wasn't happening - So Jack got to ride in the front and off we went.

The second paramedic who came in (they work in teams of 2) spoke English so he was in the back with us.   He took some information as we drove and soon we had stopped at the hospital.  However, the staff came out and told the driver that the entrance they pulled into was under construction and we needed to go to another one - so back in the ambulance we went.  

Once we got to the right entrance we got out and they told Jack and I to wait in the waiting room - well that wasn't happening.   I told them Jack would go to the waiting room, but I was going with her - period.   So... Mama and I went to the exam room.   4 people swarmed in - all speaking German - and began to examine her.   5 or 6 minutes later a lady looked at us and said English or German?   LOL - We said English and finally got to really talk to someone.  It was so odd - like watching a movie in a foreign language without subtitles.

They took us down to XRay and we sat and waited.   A few minutes later a lady popped out and X Rayed her arm, then they sent us back to the original room.   And by sent - I mean sent.  They didn't walk us just pointed and said go... so we wondered around until we found our way.

Once there I was giving the lady Mama's medicine list - which is long - when the Dr. came in and said... "It's broke - you need surgery".   My heart dropped!  I said when?   At this point she pulled up the X Rays and showed us where it is broken in the elbow.  I don't see what she was talking about but trust her.   She said it needs surgery within a week or it will begin to heal the wrong way and possibly have to be re-broken.  I said can it be done today?  She said no - soonest she could do it was Friday and Mama would have to stay in hospital until Monday or we could fly home.  Well - answer to that is no we are not staying in a German hospital for 4 days.   So we asked a few more questions about what happens if it is not done in a week, what are they gong to do to keep it from getting worse, etc...

She said they would put a cast on it and given the pain medicines she is already on she could continue to take those for pain.   They said they would give us a CD with the X Rays and we could give them to our Dr. for a second opinion.   We said ok ... and went to wait on the cast.

While waiting we discussed what we would do.  I explained to Mama it is really up to her - We can fly home tomorrow (somehow) and we can get her to a DR and get the surgery. OR if she isn't hurting and feels like it she can take risk and wait 9 days instead of the 7 or less we can finish the trip.  As of now she is opting to finish the trip - I will be watching her and we will take it day by day.

We then went to get her cast on.  Now this hospital is apparently a teaching hospital - so there is Mama surrounded by 6 people as a Dr. explains how to do a cast.   He went to show how on the wrong arm and one said "wrong arm" just as I was about to do the same.  He said "I know - I was just showing how it would work".... If the consequences of this weren't a broken arm that sucks to high heaven it would have been hilarious.  Who am I kidding - Mama in a room full of interns all speaking German while setting her arm was hilarious.   It was just amazingly funny.

Once the cast was on the doctor told us he would give us a write up (in German) and we could leave.  I asked about the bill and he said they would handle with the insurance we gave them earlier... so we walked to meet Jack in the lobby, got an Uber, and came back to the hotel.  The entire ER visit took less than an hour!   AN HOUR!  Can you imagine that visit in the US ?  We would have been there half the night and probably into the morning.

We got back to the hotel and I sent Mama up with Jack to the room to drop stuff off, use bathroom, etc.. while I went to find our tour director.  He was eating lunch and I caught him up on the events.   As of now we are planning to stay... we shall play it by ear.     Several group members asked about her in the dining room which made me feel good.

I then went up, collected Mama and Jack and we came back down to get dinner.   We walked in and the entire group clapped in welcome.  It was really nice of them.   We sat down and had dinner which was really good - salad - honey baked chicken with carrots and potatoes then a chocolate mousse.  The conversation amoung the three of us was also good - it was just a nice enjoyable dinner.

After dinner I went to help Mama get settled in and ready for tomorrow, had to get desk clerk to come show us how to operate the phones because I couldn't figure it out, and then I came to my room and started getting ready for tomorrow.  

It was a good day until it wasn't and even then it wasn't bad.  My stress level is high and I'm worried about her, but I also know that we are in God's hands and all will be well.   She is 72 years old and did a 4 hour tour with a broke arm ... I hope I'm half that good when I'm older.

I also want to talk about the tour, because we did see some things I want to remember.   Pasquale left us with a city guide who was very funny with political and other jokes, however he had a monotone voice... it was good though and when I wasn't watching Mama to see if she was really ok or no his commentary was interesting.

I honestly have no idea what we saw as we drove through the city.   I do know 90 percent of it was not standing after WW2 - they rebuilt it and they did one of 2 things.  Rebuilt it back how it was or went super modern with it.  So the architecture is very different from one building to another.

We stopped at the Brandenburg Gate, which is in former West Berlin and took a few pictures.   This thing has had a life.  It was finished in 1795.  Then Napoleon moved it to Paris during the French Occupation (1806).   It was returned in 1814 - being declared a symbol of victory.  It was damaged during WW2 and was restored between 1956-58.  It stands very close to where the Berlin Wall stood and there is a line of pavers you can walk that show where the wall was.

We then drove by Checkpoint Charlie - we will see more of it tomorrow.   We then went to Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedachtnis-Kirche.  A church that was destroyed in WW2.  It has a bell tower standing that is still damaged from the bombs.   We walked around outside, took some pictures and then went to buy a few post cards.  It looks really neat from the outside.  My pictures aren't great though - I was focused on other things.

We went back to the coach and seeing we had a few minutes I left Mama with Jack and went to take a few more pictures.  I then realized you could go in the damaged tower... so I grabbed a few from inside too.  Inside it is amazing - Gold tile all over the place with mosaics.  It was absolutely gorgeous and I'm sorry Jack and Mama missed it.   I also went  into the new church they built.  It is a glass structure that is blue on the inside due to the glass and the reflecting light.   It has a large alter with a Christ hanging on it and that was it.  Very Very Modern and I didn't really like it.  It was dazzling sure, but not pretty - I took some pictures and then made it to the bus with a minute to spare.

We then went to the Holocaust memorial that is made of concrete blocks.   It is treated more like a park with people sitting on the monuments and talking.   It seemed common, but seemed odd to me - at the same time it's in the middle of a very busy square and takes up the entire square so it was inevitable I guess.   Mama went back to the front area to rest while I poked around for a few.  I tried to pray and thank God for my life.  I tried to think of the Jews who had lost so much and of the atrocities that occurred to warrant this monument, but I found myself unable to really do so.  

I hopped back on the bus and he finished the tour at the hotel at which point you know the story.   It's been a long day and I'm going to bed.  Here is praying that tomorrow is a better day - praying Mama is not in pain - praying she can enjoy the rest of this trip  - praying -

Germany Day 11

Today was an off day - we all have them.  That being said we did get to see some things in Germany that I enjoyed.   Here is our day for those interested and for posterity sake.

We got up and had our bags out of the room by 7, then headed down and ate breakfast.  They told us to sit anywhere and we did, but I am not sure our table had been cleaned as I noticed others after the fact had plates and things already on the tables.   But it was clean enough I guess - either way it was completely our fault regardless.   Breakfast was a buffet and it was fairly good - honestly everything was probably colored by my own sour mood so ...  The coffee was drinkable, not as good as yesterday, but good.  The food was also good though I didn't eat very much for some reason.

After breakfast we went to the coach and rode a short distance to get on a river cruise.  We cruised down the Rhine River to Cologne.   When we first started the cruise it was rainy but it cleared up as we went along  so for much of the cruise I stayed on the top where I could get better pictures while Jack and Mama stayed in the bottom section.  I can't blame them as the wind would cut through you like a knife - I hope my pictures were worth it.   Along the cruise we  passed several Castles and also several little towns that were very picturesque.  I'm going to have to spend some time matching the Castles with the pictures in my books to see which is which as I could not hear the boat stuff very well.  I did enjoy the castles though and the general scenery of the cruise was gorgeous.    The Rhine river itself is very large an dis actively used for shipping  - it is considered an international waterway.

Another thing to note is that trains run on both sides of the river.   They made the entrance to the train tunnels look like castle turrets so that they would not be bombed in WWII as they knew the Allied Forces were under orders to try and not bomb historic buildings.     On another note our tour director said yesterday on the way to dinner that many of the buildings (churches, etc...), such as some we saw in Frankfort may look old, but they were completely demolished in WWII with the bombings and were rebuilt to look the same.

Once our tour was done we hopped back on the bus and drove to Cologne.  Our first stop was a restaurant where they gave us a snack and drinks.  Most people got beer, but we got a coke.   We didn't stay very long - we had limited time to see the city and we wanted a little something more substantial to eat so we stayed for a few and then split from the group.  

We first tried to go to the this German place our guide had recommended on our walk over to the snack restaurant, but A) it was frilly B) it was expensive an C) after sitting for a few no one had come over to wait on us.  So we left and went to a bakery down the street.  This place was so odd - it is an open air bakery with the smell of sugar wafting out onto the street - instant interest, right?  Well you go in and all around the food and in the restaurant honey bees are flying around.   They are everywhere - my first instinct was eeeewww and oh crap I'm going to get stung.  However, I then realized they pollinate our food so decided to stay.   Mama was not as nice as I am and some bees may have meet their unfortunate death :(    We got our snack and coffee and sat down to eat.   The coffee was good and the apple roll thingy was OK, but it made me not be hungry so win!   It was a little warm in the restaurant and we weren't really comfortable with the bees flying around so we left to go sight seeing.

Cologne's home to the tallest twin tower Cathedral in the world.  It is a Gothic Cathedral and is amazing to see.   The material it is built out of is white but it absorbs the pollutants from the air which gives it a black look.  They are constantly cleaning it but in all honesty it looks cool black.  The building was started in 1248 but was not finished until 1880... Now that is a delayed building project.  The sheer height of it is a sight to see.   We took some pictures of it from the outside then wandered in to take some more.  Jack sat down on a pew and let Mama and I wonder - I spent at least 40 minutes meandering on my own taking pictures and I don't think we saw 1/2 of it.  They have several rooms and sections off of the main area ...   The inside of it is massively tall with a sweeping arched roof that you have to see.   I can't say its the prettiest cathedral I've ever been in as far as the art or the architecture, but it is most impressive.  You can't walk in and not be impressed by it's sheer size and beauty.

After the Cathedral we walked over to a Roman / German Museum and just looked in the windows from the outside.   They have an original Roman mosaic floor they discovered and built the museum around it - it was quite pretty.  

And that was our site seeing for the town - we went and bought a few souvenirs, grabbed a coffee to get out of the rain and were done about 30 minutes before our scheduled meet time with the group.  

We then had a bus ride to Dusseldorf where we are staying overnight.  The ride took a bit of time and most of us slept as it was interstate driving.   Once here we came to our rooms to freshen up before dinner at 7.

The hotel is an airport hotel and more of a technical stop vs. a site seeing one - just need to get from point A to B so I wasn't expecting much of the dinner.  However, I was so wrong.  It was a buffet and it was incredible.   You had choice of meets and the sides were good  - also the salad bar was super fresh and clean.   The wait staff was also spot on!   The rooms are also really nice - very spacious and built to be worked from for extended periods of time, which makes them comfy!    

Tomorrow we ride the high speed train to Berlin - first class ride no less.  This should be interesting to experience.  Praying for a good mood tomorrow and that we have a fabulous day.