A Visit with the Großeltern

Hmmm ... I wonder who this could be?

Today we started with a bit of a hike, just James and I, to see the vast and lovely countryside which he has talked about so much.

It was beautiful!

We hiked through the deep and lovely woods, crossed meandering streams, hiked on farm roads, climbed rolling hills, crossed busy streets, wandered past ancient (abandoned?) buildings, and enjoyed amazing views. All before lunchtime!

Then it was time for a trip to the Grandparent's House in the country!

Oh, look! Großvater Gerd and James!

Grandpa and Grandma (Tabea's mother's parents, aka Opa and Oma) have a lovely country home up in the hills that looks like an Alpine cottage, lovingly crafted by Gerd himself (!) and full of unique and beautiful architecture. I would show you pictures of all the wonderful things inside, but frankly I was too busy oohing and aahing over them to take any pictures, so you'll have to go there yourself and see them.

We had a lovely (and tasty) tea-time with them.

Opa (Gerd) and Oma (Seigrid)

Cheryl enjoys Tea-Time with die Großeltern

To cap off a thoroughly wonderful afternoon, Opa Gerd took us for a ride in his Trabant!

Famous East German Automobile!

(Opa Gerd could probably do well at the Indianopolis 500...)

Later that evening, we went to town for a concert at a local church. They had quite the pretty ceiling:

The Hebrew letters are for "Yahweh"

and quite the entertaining concert. Although the temperature inside the building - and the lack of air movement - was a challenge for those of us who struggle with asthma.

During the intermission, we took a stroll around the grounds:

Stretching the legs during intermission

OK, I guess we're done walking!

After all that entertainment, we were ready to go home and relax.