Germany, Switzerland (& an afternoon in France)
As we wove our way back an forth between Germany and Switzerland.. with an afternoon in France.. (you can click on individual photos to see the full size)
In Northern Germany, below Hamburg, we were welcomed with the warmest kind of welcome – a handmade sign and a naturally flowing, creative family atmosphere. Zion became known as “boy in the orange shirt” as he followed his new friend (somewhat nervously) along tree branches. Notice the notes posted in the house leading us to points of interest. When we walked into this home Zion immediately mentioned that this home reminded him of Adam’s (a very high compliment). We left there too soon but look forward to hosting this family in Canada.
Then there was Berlin. A city that I found quite stimulating. Rude public transpo employees, buildings, buskers (our favorites : ), the wall gallery (the chance for yet another history lesson) then the more alternative underground mixes of people and graffiti.
Playmobil park. Who knew! An inexpensive day that we all thoroughly enjoyed for it’s crazy supplies of toys, tree houses, rafts, wholesome cuisine, cleanliness, and all ages do-it-yourself simplicity. This is in Bavaria, Germany – GO if you get the chance!
Shauna & Stefan’s house. I had been anticipating this visit for a long time and can’t believe how our 10 days slipped by (even with all of my anxiety in bringing my wild family into a home that is a very rhythmic, beautifully styled, and structured, adult nest). A 5star holiday experience with ensuite, a separate room for the boys, tremendous meals, and guided tours to boot. In Eamon’s mind Stefan knows everything about everything and Zion well,, he is in Awe! I had the time I needed to connect with a dear friend and Elmir was blown away with the energy they put forth to host US. Bailey (the dog in the photos) was pretty sick while we were visiting – we are relieved to hear that she is just about back to her happy healthy self. We left grateful and the down time renewed our desire to continue our travels.
Some excursions we did while staying with Shauna & Stefan:
hiked to a castle ruin built on top of a volcano in Singen (G) ; went to a neighbors backyard (all out) dinner and party ; a sweet women’s veg lunch in Basel (G) ; a walk through Shaffhaussen (S) and a game of tag in Munot Castle ; extreme blackberry picking through the woods to the Rhienfall (S) ; a family trip to the painted town of Stein am Rhein (S) ; rope swinging into the Rhein ; a drive to the back forest and lake Titisee (G) for a walk and CAKE of course ; a gondola ride to mount Titlis (S) in the Swiss alps (the sound of cow bells still ring in my ears) ; a drive to Requewihr (F) – the most beautiful 700yr old town ; a visit to a natural doctor (where Shauna had to translate what the subconscious couldn’t 😉 then Blueberry tart, pizza + drinks at Stephan’s parent’s home (yes, in that order!) ; a campfire in the woods with traditional Swiss sausages, veg, chocolate..
New foodie fare adopted into our family include : tete de moine cheese enjoyed over a slow breakfast, and swiss Birchermüesli “Eamon’s favorite yogourt”.
I jokingly told Shauna & Stephan that while I was there I wanted to see the alps where the guys in traditional shorts play the Aplenhorn. Well, I got to see all these things but separately and in rather unusual locations.
Love from all of us!
Brandie, Elmir, Zion & Eamon
