Dear Friends

When you have cool "grand-nieces" you learn all sorts of new things. Emma thought a video would be fun for me to engage in. I agree, its fun!
Have fun,
Maria

It got really cold in Germany, but its beautiful. Here some pictures from one of my walks! Enjoy!

Dear Friends

The Black Forest is a cold region in Germany but of course very nice. Spending Christmas here with my family was fun. Here are some pictures of the beauty of the area and the joys of family.

My nephew Aaron

Ruben and I

Simon and his little aunt

Walking in the Black Forest with Anne

Dear Friends

The terror attack in Germany shocked the nation. As we celebrate Christmas we are reminded that "Peace on Earth" is far from the reality we live in. Apart from and in Christ there is no true peace for the hearts of men. Christ not fear should not rule our hearts.

 Amy and I went yesterday to one of the local Christmas Markets. At 6 pm we observed a moment of silence. For a brief time the shops stopped all activities and silence fell over the Market. It was touching. As everywhere life goes on and we focus on what the Season really is all about.

 Typical center in a German Town. Its my sister's hometown. I spend the last several days here.

Christmas Time in Germany

Visiting a Christmas Market in Germany is almost a "must". The smells, sounds and sights are delightful.  My sister and  I went to visit the market in Ludwigsburg, on the way we passed the beautiful Castle.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a beautiful old city on the River Neckar. The castled build in 1214 towers high above the river. Age has a different meaning among such old buildings.

View from the castle tower

Scenery from the Castle

The castle was build in the early 13th century

A idyllice picture on our way to Heidelberg

Black Forest Fun

Germany's largest waterfall

The Nutcracker's Home

Black Forest Scenery

The original Black Forest Cake, hmmm ...deliciouse

Home of the Chuck-Chucks Clock

Berry Picking in the Woods

Friendly Onlooker

Traveling in Southern Germany

What a joy it is to travel together with a friend, Les from Kenya spend some days with me. Our days were filled visting with wonderful places around the southern parts of Germany. Sometimes I "forget" how beautiful Germany is.

Here some pictures from Lake Constance. The Island of Mainau is in the middle of the lake and a gorgeous spot to visit. The castle and the gardens are magnificent. Highlight is the butterfly house.