The Ort Family in Germany

2006-01-24T08:47:00.001-06:00

Finally, a photo of our German family!

2005-11-26T14:15:00.001-06:00

It looked like a cross in the sky!

Almost home!

Sandwiched between layers of cloud

A bendy bus

A normal bus

In the Victoria train station before leaving for Gatwick airport

Mr. and Mrs. H, our hosts in London

PS and M

The men playing ping-pong

One of many train rides

Posing with R and R V.

O kids with M and S V.

Playing music with Mr. H

Checking out Mr. H's cello

St. Paul's Cathedral (although to get a great picture is extremely difficult because of the size)

The inside of St. Martin in the Fields

The pianist who we heard play

St. Martin in the Fields

A better picture

The basement cafe of St. Martin's

Westminster Abbey

The first UN meeting place

Big Ben

Buckingham Palace

The Queen's park

Posing with the Os

Lunch at a food stand in the Queen's park

The Christian McDonalds manager

Fish and Chips with Mr. H

English telephone booths

Flying to England

Bye-bye! (Daddy's brother, sister, and brother-in-law waving to us in the airport)

The Hundertwasser house (a photo does NOT do it justice!)

The O kids in the Frankfurt forest

L-R: K, P, R, T (Daddy's sister's family with whom we stayed in Germany)

2005-11-16T06:38:00.000-06:00

Nov. 7
Yesterday, we took a walk with the Staschs through the fields and forest, and after awhile, the boys headed off to play soccer. Daddy and I followed so I could video a little bit. They practiced shooting goals and then Daddy and I walked back home. In the evening, Timo, Peter, Paul Stefan and I (Kay was still sick) played Karkassonn, a game we have at home but haven’t played yet, and had a lot of fun.

We took our last trip into Erlangen this morning. First, we visited the grave of Daddy’s mother and father. How wonderful it is to know that the grave is not the end. Christians have the hope of instant transfer from this world to Heaven when they die. Walking through a graveyard is an experience which can make one ponder the purpose of life. What is left when one is put into the ground? Only what’s done for Christ’s kingdom will matter after life. Unfortunately, non-christians cannot experience everlasting joy and peace in Heaven. It is the job of us Believers to further the knowledge of Christ in the world and pray unceasingly for His drawing of souls.

Next, we did some shopping in the large shopping center, which I remember from our last time in Germany. Then we walked to the McDonalds from old days, and which seems like a tradition for our visits. It has been remodeled inside since the last time, and we enjoyed our drinks before driving back to Uttenreuth. Our afternoon was filled with packing and doing necessary things. The boys also played some soccer on the computer. Before dinner, we watched Timo play soccer once again. We were happy to witness his team win 4-0.

Nov. 8
We got up around 6:00 and finished the rest of our packing before breakfast at 9. Uncle Peter and Timo left later than usual, so were able to say goodbye. Aunt Rosi and Kay were able to eat with us. At about 10:00, we drove off for Frankfurt after hugs and handshakes, hoping to see each other in America in not too long. And our journey back began.

We arrived at Aunt Hanne’s in the early afternoon. Aunt Hanne had prepared a light meal for us, after which we took a walk through the woods and fields close to the house. Thereafter we drove to what used to be a fortress for kaffeetrinken. On the way home, we went by a Hundertwasser house, build by a man who employed many interesting ideas in construction. His houses are very colorful and irregular.

Uncle Andreas had a delicious meal prepared for us at home, for which Uncle Hermann, who was working nearby, joined us. We all drove to the airport at 8:20. Following our luggage check-in, we sat down to drink something at the airport McDonalds. And then it was time to say goodbye, again with hopes of seeing them in America. We left waving, and heading for the security checks. We had to go through two of them, and at the first, they had me open up the bag and box with my violin.

The plane trip lasted less than an hour to Heathrow. I sat in a window seat and enjoyed glimpsing the fascinating lights below. What was really interesting was seeing the moon in the distance as though it was lower than the plane. At Heathrow airport in London, we got into an underground train which took us to Manor House in about 45 minutes, arriving at 12:30am. Mr. Hutchinson drove us to his house where we had some water to drink and exhaustedly got in bed for sleep before breakfast at 9:00.

Nov. 9
Following breakfast with Mr. Hutchinson, we went for a walk in the nearby park and old filter beds, one of the first water purification systems in the world. It was amazing to walk in the city, but through an area which seemed to be in the middle of the country! Some of the water beds are set up for the birds to live. It was also interesting to see the different progressive stages of the water beds when not maintained. For lunch, we stopped at a center for golfers, and had fish or chicken and chips. Chips in England are French Fries, but the ones we had were better than McDonalds. Fish and chips turned out to be a good option of a British specialty. Mrs. Hutchinson was at the house when we returned, and offered us tea. Mr. Hutchinson had a meeting, so left soon after dinner, and we spent the evening with Mrs. Hutchinson.

Nov. 10
This morning, we took the 9:47 train from Clapton Station to Liverpool Street. Liverpool Station is very busy, and masses of people were in a hurry to get somewhere. From Liverpool, we took the Circle Line to Charing Cross. We couldn’t find a cross, but there was a large monument with a small cross on top, which we figured was the place where our friends, the Odells, wanted to meet us. Because there was still some time before our meeting, Daddy stopped in a souvenir shop to buy some postcards. The Pakistani store owner, after I asked for a receipt, said “Ah, in the footsteps of her father!” He then was full of curiosity why we ask for receipts. So Daddy explained some of his views on money, which is an interesting conversation to get into with a total stranger!

Next, we stepped into McDonalds for a drink. Surprisingly, the manager approached and said “A good table for a lovely family!” This comment was a bit unusual. Daddy, as he was ordering, had another encounter with the manager, who asked where he was from. The manager, apparently from Brazil, then brought up the subject of the World Cup, hopefully including Germany vs. Brazil. Daddy displayed his condolences in advance for his team, which of course stimulated disagreement from him.:-) After we finished our drinks, he stopped us before the exit, and asked if we were Christians. Apparently, he had noticed something different as we walked in, and God had prompted him that we were. We stood there for several minutes, listening to him talk about the faith, as he turned out to be an evangelist. He was very on fire for the Lord, and heartily called us his brothers and sisters. What an amazing encounter to have in a McDonalds in the heart of London! It was quite encouraging to us.

We then met Mr. and Mrs. Odell, whom Daddy and Mommy know from being overseas, and they proceeded to give us an informal tour of that part of London. We walked past Saint Martin in the Fields church, after which came Trafalgar Square, a common place for large gatherings. There came a road lined with British and Chinese flags (apparently there was a meeting with the president of China). This road eventually led to Prince Charles’s house on the right and Buckingham Palace directly at the end. There was also a beautiful royal park through which we walked and stopped at a stand for a light lunch. Next we proceeded to walk through another park on the other side of the road, a place where a river and many ducks are to be found. The Parliament buildings came next, and we looked down the street where Tony Blair lived. We stopped at a building across from Westminster Abbey for tea. Mr. Odell showed us the United Nations first meeting place before we visited the gift shop of Westminster Abbey. In the garden of the church, were hundreds of small crosses to remember those who had died in the wars.

From Westminster, we walked by Big Ben, the famous clock tower on the end of a long government building. The Odells then soon had to leave, and we had to leave as well for our evening appointment. We parted and headed off by train to Islington. From the station, we walked a bit, including past the church we attended and lived at when I was 3, to Adrian and Polly Arthur’s house. Polly was fixing dinner and heartily welcomed us. Adrian was single when we lived in London, so it was great to meet his wife and hear about how God brought them together. Adrian arrived from work after awhile, and we talked while they finished dinner. Following the meal, we showed our photo album and looked at their album of wedding photos. Adrian walked with us to the bus station when it was time to leave, and we waited for an unexpectedly long time for a bus to finally arrive. We sat in the upper level and enjoyed our one double-decker ride during the London visit. Getting back to the house quite late, we headed straight to bed.

Nov. 11
Today was our day free from engagements with friends, so we spent the day walking partly where we had been the day before. We had lunch in the basement café of St. Martin in the Fields church before attending a piano concert in the Auditorium by a Japanese lady who studies in Germany. From there, we tried to walk to Oxford Circus, but entered a Borders before reaching our destination. Leaving Borders, we took the train to St. Paul’s Cathedral, since we hadn’t seen it yet. I was amazed at the size of it as we walked along the side to the front steps and entered the amazingly architectured building. Not that others had been less impressive, but this one was especially huge in my opinion. Because one has to pay for entrance, we just saw what we could before the way was closed off.

We spent the evening with the Hutchinsons. They are both musical, and we played some impromptu music together with violin, piano, cello, and guitar. We showed them our album as well.

Nov. 12
We took a morning train to Westcliff on Sea, where our friends the Verrinders live. Daddy was shown great hospitality by Ruth Verrinder’s parents when he attended their church in England. Since that time contact has remained with Ruth, who got married to Richard, and now has two sons, Matthew and Samuel. The men just got back from soccer training when we arrived, and we sat down for lunch. Following the meal, we took a walk down to the sea, enjoying the great view. The pier is the longest in England, and at one point Christians began seriously praying that God would do something to stop the worldliness which went on at a bar located on the pier. On a Monday they started praying, and on Thursday a large fire destroyed a part of the pier, including that bar and other restaurants. God surely does have His ways!

After getting back, we had a tea break while the boys played table tennis. They then came in and watched the England vs. Argentina soccer game, which England won. In the evening, after a Chinese meal, we showed my recital dvd.

Nov. 13
We attended the Verrinders church today, and Paul Stefan and I were asked to join the music team for the service, which we did with our violins. The service was a special Remembrance Day one. One of the songs was to the tune of Be Thou My Vision, but with totally different words. I was glad to be able to keep the music we played. Daddy was also interviewed about literacy ministry. After the service, Daddy spent some time talking with a German man and his family. We drove back to the house and had a great typical British meal with Yorkshire pudding, chicken, potatoes, and other vegetables. We showed our photo album and the boys enjoyed playing some games together before leaving for the train station at 4:30.

We spent the evening with the Hutchinsons who had prepared tea (dinner). Their suggestion was to quickly pack our things and then drive them with the car to a chapel close to the bus station for tomorrow, which would be easier than walking with all the luggage in the morning. So that’s what we did.

Nov. 14.
Mrs. Hutchinson had breakfast prepared for us, and walked with us to the chapel to help us with our luggage and getting the correct bus. We bided farewell to our very hospitable host for the time we were in London and got on a bendy bus headed for Victoria Station. The long ride was a challenge with all the luggage, but the large space where we could keep it was very helpful. At Victoria, Daddy got our tickets for the Gatwick Express, which would quickly take us to the Gatwick airport.

While on the train, at about 10:30, Daddy remarked to Mommy, “We have a big problem.” Mommy thought we maybe were heading to the wrong airport, but Daddy showed her the tickets which said our flight was at 10:05. We had missed our plane. We somehow thought our flight was at 2:00. At the airport, Daddy immediately went to try to get things sorted out. Amazingly, we were offered a flight at no extra charge 24 hours after our scheduled time. A British Airways employee was very kind in advising us what to do with our luggage and about a place to stay the night. He even helped Daddy to book in a hotel nearby and told us that we could check in our luggage after 4:00. So we spent time in the large waiting area, eating lunch in the McDonalds, perusing shops, and making phone calls. Surprisingly, the employee went out of his way to find us and offered to show Daddy the way to the hotel so we could walk instead of paying for a taxi, which he did. We wonder if he is a Christian.

We checking in our luggage after 4:00 and walked to the hotel. An hour of time before dinner in the restaurant allowed us to relax a bit. The unexpected time to relax in a nice hotel was actually good for us. Our waiter at dinner turned out to be from Bangladesh, and spent some time talking to us. One topic was the different in getting water in India and in the West. In Europe, water is not automatically free. One has to say ‘tap water’ in order not to pay for it. In India it is normal to get free water with your meal. The waiter also spoke about the government of India. I believe Daddy has a way to get people from Asia talking because he spent many years there. Four of us had Thai curry while one had a pizza, all of which was delicious. After devotions, we went to bed, anticipating a somewhat relaxed morning because most of the airport business was done already.

Nov. 15
We rose early because two of us had to take showers and we wanted to be at the airport early. Before 8:00 we were there and ate breakfast at McDonalds. A bit before 10:00, we made our way to the departure gate, and finally entered the plane which would take us back across the ocean. Taking off is the best part, in my opinion, and it happened at about 10:15. We soared above the clouds and were then between two layers of cloud, which was a breathtaking view. Our last authentic British tea was enjoyed on the flight, as well as the food which was given. The flight lasted 10 hours, but for me it seemed not as long as one would imagine. Interestingly, Mommy met a lady who works in India as a missionary and is now going to visit family and friends in the US. She may also be coming to Tulsa! Isn’t it amazing who God causes you to meet? Also, a steward was from Germany, and asked Daddy where he was from. As he was working, he spent a few moments in conversation with Daddy. The whole flight was during daylight, and we saw on the radar that we were flying over Tulsa. Then it didn’t last very long until we finally landed on American soil, or pavement, whichever you prefer.

Thankfully, customs was not a big problem, and Uncle Lin was waiting to take us back to his house. Everything fit either in his car or on the roof. Amazingly, everything fit into our car as well! We got to see the whole family and have a drink before saying goodbye and driving off for the actual last bit of the journey. By this time it was after 4:00. We got in the car, with our feet on luggage and luggage on top of us, but a squeezed ride would have to be endured. Why not have just a little more adventure to end our trip?

On the way, some of us slept, as we were quite tired out from the travels and our bodies were probably still accustomed to England time, 6 hours ahead. We arrived home after 10:00. Then we began unpacking, washing, and sorting mail. Originally, we would have had one day at home before driving to Atlanta, GA, but now we had just one night! Daddy got to bed first because he would be the driver tomorrow, and I got a couple hours sleep after midnight. I don’t know how much sleep the others got, but it probably wasn’t much.

One thing must be said before I continue, though. Considering how much hassle could have occurred as a result of missing our plane, we are really grateful to the Lord that He caused everything to run so smoothly. His ways are amazing!

Nov. 16
I have been typing these last several entries while the laundry is continuing. It is presently 6:10am, and we need to finish packing as well as drive to Nashville today. We are committed to representing Literacy and Evangelism International at a missionary convention in Atlanta for a few days which ends on Sunday. So actually our travels have not completely ended. Probably Thanksgiving will mark the beginning of getting back to a normal routine.

2005-11-07T07:45:00.000-06:00

Mrs. Weber showing us the manger scenens

Posing with Mr. Werner and the violins he made

Aunt Rosi demonstrating the curriculum she teaches

Uncle Andreas with Peter and Paul Stefan

Ana Marie, Shannon, and Aunt Nisha

Watching Timo's soccer game

The four Ort siblings - Georg, Hanne, Rosi, and Hermann

Varun and Shannon Ort - our cousins

Watching Timo's soccer game

Timo - in the middle

All the ladies in the family

Shannon and Ana Marie, the two girl cousins (on this side of the family)

2005-11-07T01:10:00.000-06:00

Nov. 2
Our outing today was to the old home of Franz and Betty Weber, Daddy’s uncle and aunt, to see his collection of manger scenes. His collection containing about 300 is quite famous, and we wanted to see them again. Mrs. Weber showed us around the place and explained various tidbits about the scenes.

Thereafter, we drove to see their new apartment in the house of their daughter, Daddy’s cousin. Mr. and Mrs. Weber are in their 80’s and at this point it is good for them to live with someone who can care for them when needed. The apartment is new and practical for them, and it is good to see them happy in their new situation.

Nov. 3
Mommy left with Aunt Nisha in the morning to get her hair done. Daddy, Paul Stefan and I took one violin back to Mr. Werner, and bought the one I had chosen. We also played our Hallelujah Chorus duet for him, which he appreciated. Our last visit with Mr. Werner was very nice. It is special to have gotten violins from a personable person.

In the afternoon, Daddy, the boys and I drove to Hessdorf. They left with Uncle Hermann for an Adidas store, after which Aunt Nisha, Mommy and I sat down for a cup of tea. In the evening, we had dinner together followed by the watching of my senior recital dvd, dessert, and a long time of talking, culminating with us arriving home after midnight

Nov. 4
In the morning, Aunt Rosi and Uncle Peter showed us the house where Daddy grew up, and which they now rent out to people. We got to see one apartment whose renters are planning to move out soon. Although a bit ancient in appearance, there are parts of the building which have been renovated and now look very good.

Next, Aunt Rosi took us to the school where she works, Montessori School. The curriculum she teaches is very hands-on and individualized, in fact, very similar to homeschooling. She demonstrated some lessons and showed us classrooms, giving us a very comprehensive tour.

Early evening, Timo had a soccer game, which we watched. His team won 7-1, which totally pleased us! After dinner, Timo and Kay’s parents went to a party, and the rest of us watched Fussball Gott(Soccer God). It is a story of two men who are trying to put together their own dream team. Along the way, they interview good players and learn about their faith. In it we heard the testimonies of some very famous soccer players.

Nov. 5
Today, all the Ort siblings, Hermann, Georg, Hanne, and Rosi got together with their families for a special time together. We started with lunch at a Chinese buffet in Erlangen, after which we left for Timo’s soccer game, followed by Kaffeetrinken in Uttenreuth. This, of course, lasted into the early evening. Later, we looked at old family pictures, watched sport overview on tv and The Climb, a dvd we found in German. Not everyone did the same thing at the same time, however. There was always a group talking around the table. Long after 10pm, the Hessdorfer Orts were the last to leave, and around 11 we headed to bed as well. It had been an absolutely wonderful time together, and only God knows when we will be all together again. Everyone is growing up, and schedules keep getting more complicated. But, we still hope to come back before 8 years have passed again!

Nov. 6
Today was our last day in our church here. People kept coming to us after the service and wishing us farewell. They always presented us with words of blessing, which is special. In the afternoon, we went for a walk with the Staschs in the forest, after which the boys played some soccer. This evening, we are planning to watch a dvd of pictures from the last 6 weeks which Uncle Peter has put together. Although most of the photos were taken by me, I am interested in what he put together!

Tomorrow our plan is to spent some time in town and on Tuesday morning, we will drive to Frankfurt for some time with Hanne and Andreas before we fly to England at around 10pm.

2005-11-03T04:58:00.000-06:00

Paul Stefan helping Uncle Peter with computer problems

With the Baummüllers in Hessdorf

Looking at old family photos

With relatives in Dechsendorf

The other half of the group

2005-11-02T13:33:00.000-06:00

Oct. 24
We drove off in Aunt Hanne's car at about 7:45am. It took us 3 hours to reach Bad Liebenzell, in the black forest area (It is one of the most scenic parts of Germany), where an elderly couple we know lives. Mr. and Mrs. Seifert heartliy greeted us and directed us to the third story of their house. We were surprised to enter such an elegant little apartment, complete with kitchen, living area, dining table, bathroom, and places to sleep.

After "settling in" for the week, we walked to the nearby PLUS to purchase some groceries, as we would be cooking some meals. At 2:45, a missionary with whom Daddy trained, arrived. The last time we had seen Mr. Schulze, we kids had been significantly younger. We sat down for Kaffeetrinken and enjoyed a few hours of catching up on his news, as well as sharing about our life. Paul Stefan and I played some violin music for him, after which Daddy showed our photo album of ministry and family photos. Then, before he left, we took a walk outside in the very pleasant weather. Directly behind the house we are staying in, there is a small lake around which we walked. Mommy prepared a dinner of oriental noodles and salad, and shortly after eating, we were all ready to head to bed.

Oct. 25
We met Aunt Hella Busch(not our real aunt) at the bus station in Calw at 10:00. Having corresponded consistently over the years, it was nice to finally talk face to face. She led us to a place for lunch, where we talked for awhile before ordering. Following a couple hours at the restaurant, we drove to an old Kloster (cloister,house for nuns). There we walked through the old architecture and and evangelical church building full of traditional decor used also by the Catholics. From there, we took Aunt Hella to the place where she is staying for a retreat this week. Paul Stefan and I played some violin music for her and whoever else stopped to listen. We then sat down to show her our album. She, being 80 years old, appreciated our visit. At 5:20, we drove back to Bad Liebenzell and stopped at the Liebenzeller Mission Bookstore. It is comparable to Christian bookstores in the States, to which we have gotten accustomed. Although it closed at 6:00, we still were able to briefly look around. Daddy purchased a DVD which we plan on watching tonight. Thinking about it, we have hardly had any time together as a family to just relax during our time here in Germany.
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The dvd was quite good, although not what we had expected. It was about Sophie Scholl, who was captured with her brother by the nazis because they distributed literature exposing Hitler’s regime. The movie showed her questioning during the last days of her life, ending with her being put to death.

Oct. 26
At 9:00. a sister at the Liebenzeller Mission gave us a tour of the compound. The mission trains and sends missionaries to various places. We enjoyed learning about their work in Germany and abroad. There is also a large bookstore, where we couldn’t spend enough time!

Sister Doris Luckert had invited us to her home in Freudenstadt for the day, so we drove over after finishing at the mission. We arrived in time for lunch and met Sister Lena and Sister Waltraud, who all live in a guesthouse with a pastor’s family. Sister Doris used to host many people in her large and beautiful home. The two ladies had prepared a delicious meal, which we enjoyed while fellowshipping. Following the meal, Paul Stefan and I played music for all in the house. Then, we walked through the forest to a hotel located at a great lookout spot. There, enjoyed Kaffeetrinken, and Daddy showed our family and ministry album. Since we wanted to get home before too late, we left before 6:00.

Oct. 27
Our morning appointment in Altensteig was with a couple Mommy trained with in YWAM. Mr. and Mrs. Warrington are originally from New Zealand, but have settled in Germany as missionaries. Their four kids are all grown, and the only day we could come was today, because they travel much in missions. We told a bit about ourselves, and heard about their family during the conversation. After lunch and playing music for them, we had to leave for our next appointment.

At 3:00, we arrived in Birkenfeld at the Müller’s home. They started contact with us during Daddy’s service with Christian Blind Mission in Pakistan. They immediately sat down with us for Kaffeetrinken. Later, they allowed us on their computer to check email. Daddy also showed our “famous” photo album, after which their 9-yr. old daughter, Sarah, came back from a Bible study. I then showed her the photos. Sarah played some recorder for me after Paul Stefan and I played violin for them. She also showed me her playroom, creatively set up as a little house. After dinner we headed back to Bad Liebenzell.

Oct. 28
We enjoyed the time to sleep in today. The morning was then spent in the Liebenzeller Mission Bookstore where we made some good purchases. :-) In the early afternoon, we drove to Tübingen, an hour away. There, we visited the hospital where Mommy and Daddy first met 27 years ago. Some things have changed, such as the removal of the playroom, rearrangement of facilities, and of course staff. It was the first time for us to be back and not meet anyone familiar. In fact, no one asked what we were doing walking around the place. Before leaving, we walked past the playground, where no longer is the tractor we played on, and the dormitory where we stayed during our time of medical examinations. These are all memories from the years before being in America.

From the compound, we drove to visit the Rillings, a couple with whom Mommy lived during part of her time in Tuebingen. We enjoyed the time of telling about LEI, our family, and hearing about their life as well. As is common among missionaries, there was much recollection of former colleagues and teammates. Paul Stefan enjoyed the chance to play a piece on their piano. Mr. Rilling also was able to see our house on Google Earth. After 10pm, we left for the hour drive back home.

Oct. 29
This morning, at 9:00. we were invited to play music for the Seiferts and their grown daughter, Karin. We also spent some time conversing, mostly about homeschooling. Their daughter and her husband cannot have children, but see missions as their “child.” Therefore, they serve extensively, including raising funds by craft sales. Karin showed us some of their work in preparation for a Christmas bazaar.

We left thanking them for the week’s stay. They had been so hospitable and kind to us, in a natural way, which we appreciated. All three of them waved enthusiastically as we drove off. In the evening, we spent some time looking at dvds of Stasch family photos. We also watched my senior recital dvd, which was also the first time we had seen it.

Oct. 30
We went to church in the morning, and to the Lappatts home in the later afternoon. They are from the church, and had us over also the last time we were here. From their home, we drove to the Hessdorfer Orts at about 9:30 to pick up two bicycles, one of which is a ladies bike for me to use.

Oct. 31
This morning, we had breakfast together with the Staschs, which doesn’t happen during a normal school week. At about 11am, Uncle Peter, Timo, Kay, Paul Stefan, Peter and I drove off on bikes toward Nürnberg. Through the woods and town we drove the 15km (approx.). We left the bikes at a street train station, from which we drove on one for a bit. Then we walked the rest of the way to meet Aunt Rosi, Daddy and Mommy in downtown Nürnberg. Together, we ate lunch overlooking a river. After that, we walked to a large castle, a great attraction of the city. It is very large, and even though we couldn’t go inside, it was fascinating to see the structure and stroll on the large stone path. What was especially nice was the large garden, where we spent some time before walking leaving. Timo and Kay decided to drive home with the others, but the rest of us bikers headed off to the underground train station. We took the underground a ways before transferring to a street train for the rest of the way to the bikes. So off we headed towards home. Not too much later, Paul Stefan encountered a problem with his bike, which Uncle Peter fixed. If it occurred again, we would take the bus home, so we drove beside the main road instead of through the forest. We in fact did drive the whole way.

It became quite dark, which made us grateful for the bike lights. At one point, we drove the wrong way, so had to drag our bikes up a steep place. Once at the top, Peter noticed there was a path which we could have take had we only driven a little bite more. Needless to say, after a total of over three hours(morning and evening) and 30 km, we were glad to be home. Tonight, we are watching the movie Luther on TV, which we have not yet seen.

Nov. 1
We had lunch with Daddy’s cousin and her husband(father’s side) in Hessdorf. Before leaving, thier daughter and four grandchildren came over. From there, we drove to Dechsendorf for Kaffeetrinken with Daddy’s uncle, aunt, and two cousins with thier husbands(mother’s side). On the way home at night, we stopped by the restaurant Hans Polster, who Daddy trained as a butcher. We were able to meet him before leaving. The workers must have wondered about us because he had dessert brought to us(although we had only planned on a light meal) and gave us a tour of the place, including kitchen facilities. Furthermore, one of Daddy’s classmates also greeted Daddy, having heard his name mentioned by Hans Polster father, with whom Daddy spoke.

Visiting many people means you get offered much food. One can get quite stuffed. Peter expressed the situation humorously my remarking: “Can stomachs explode?”

Mr. and Mrs. Seifert, with whom we stayed while in Bad Liebenzell

Our home in Bad Liebenzell(the third floor)

The Liebenzeller Mission

Touring the mission, here in the museum

Kaffeetrinken with Siegfried Schultze

Keith and Marion Warrington

Me with Aunt Hella Busch

Kloister St. Peter and Paul

Posing with Sisters Doris, Lena, and Waltraud in Freudenstadt

Daddy showing pictures to Mr. and Mrs. Rilling in Tübingen

Mr. and Mrs. Müller and Sarah

Me explaining pictures to Sarah Müller

Mommy and Daddy in front of the hospital where they met

Showing pictures to Mr. and Mrs. Lappatt

Ready for the ride!

Pedalling, pedalling

Time for a drink

Waving to highway travelers (and receiving waves back!)

Waiting for the crossing signal

Enjoying lunch

Nürnberg old town

Worn out after the ride home

2005-10-23T09:26:00.000-05:00

Oct.22
Saturday is the cleaning day around here, so everyone had a job to do. Also, we took one violin back to Mr. Werner, bought Paul Stefan's, and kept two for me to continue trying. Aunt Hanne dropped by on her way back to Frankfurt from a job, and took Daddy and Mommy with her. They picked up her car to use during the coming week. Paul Stefan and I biked into town to pick up some sheet music from a store. Driving through the city was fun, but one has to really be alert. Unlike the US, there are pedestrians and bikers all over the place. In a way, driving a car is a secondary transport option because also buses are plentiful.

Later in the day, the boys hauled firewood to the third story of the house. It was fun to watch them have fun while working!

Oct. 23
Today, Paul Stefan and I played the Hallelujah Chorus at the beginning of the church service. Paul Stefan will be playing his piano piece on another Sunday. The Staschs and Uncle Hermann and Aunt Nisha had attended the service to hear us play, which totally thrilled us. The service was again really good. I consider it similar to our church at home. The theme was following Jesus' command to be a witness for Him.

We all drove back to Uttenreuth for lunch. Daddy, Paul Stefan, Peter, and Timo, however, went to the soccer field where Daddy used to play. A game was going to take place, and probably many people Daddy knows would be there as well. It is now after 4:00. At 6:00 we are invited to the home of a family from church.

Tomorrow morning, we are driving to the Black Forest for a week, where we will probably not have internet. So be ready for a long update next weekend!

Now, some pictures:

Georg talking with two nursing school classmates

More former classmates

Paul Stefan and Timo filling the basket with wood

Timo and Paul Stefan letting up the basket

Peter pulling up the basket

Peter emptying the basket

2005-10-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

Oct. 21
Last night, after Peter and Paul Stefan came back from Kay’s soccer training(they have been able to participate while in town), we drove to the Black Bear restaurant. A few classmates of Daddy’s were already at the large reserved table, and were happy to see him after so many years. The evening was full of “catching up” on news. We also had something small to eat as well as drink. The apple juice drink was great! Although it was a good time, we sensed that most, if not all of them are not Christians. That is of course saddening. The most important decision they can make is to follow Jesus, no matter how good their nursing careers may be.

Today, we drove to Würzburg to visit a missionary sister. She worked for many years in Africa, and now lives with 29 other sisters, serving in the church and hospital. She met Daddy at a three-week nursing training many years ago, and has kept in contact. The few hours we spent together were very nice. She, as a single servant of the Lord, is very fulfilled, which was evident by the way she talked and joyfully hosted us at her home.

Tonight, after watching Timo’s soccer team play(he is not playing, but we’ll watch anyway), we three kids are driving to Hessdorf with the Staschs to join our parents and the Hessdorfer Orts for dinner. Uncle Hermann is away during the week, so can only get together with us on weekends. Tomorrow morning, we are taking back the violins we won't take to Mr. Werner, and are going to buy the two we like. These violins would likely be double or even triple the cost in America, and since Paul Stefan and I(Ana Marie) have saved our money, and need some better quality instruments, it is a blessing to be able to get two directly from a master violin builder!

2005-10-20T10:40:00.000-05:00

Oct. 18
Georg and the two boys stayed at home the whole day, while Martha and Ana Marie went out for lunch and shopping with Aunt Nisha. On the way back to Uttenreuth, they picked up Varun (with their family’s car) for the evening. Nisha stayed in Hessdorf, and Varun drove the three back to Uttenreuth. We had a good time of conversation with him and showed him pictures of the time in Switzerland.

Oct. 19
With the Wagners at their home
A former elder of our church here in Erlangen and his wife invited us to their home for lunch. We knew our destination was right since Mr. Wagner stood on the porch, waving us in. Like last time, he made sure we had a good place to park. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner kindly welcomed us, and we stayed for four hours, eating, talking, and playing music. Christian fellowship is great! It was decided that in addition to Paul Stefan and Ana Marie’s performance of the Hallelujah Chorus on two violins, Paul Stefan would play “A Mighty Fortress” at the end of the service on Sunday.

The cousins and Georg watching the game
Shortly after arriving back in Uttenreuth, we left to watch Kay play in a soccer game against SC(Sport Club) Spardorf. Timo and the three Ort children drove bikes while the adults took the car. The game was interesting, and ended well. Kay’s team beat the other 4-3.

Georg, Martha, and Rosi Stasch at the soccer game

The Ort kids and Timo ready for the ride back home

Oct. 20
Today, Georg, Ana Marie, and Paul Stefan took the bus into town. We spent a couple hours visiting the music store to bring back one violin, and a piano store, whose owner Georg knows. He used to play soccer with his older brother. We ate lunch at a chinese restaurant, following which Georg agreed to embark on an adventure. The two teens wished to walk all the way home. So we walked for 1½ hours, arriving a bit tired. Daddy was so kind to agree to the request, even though it was a challenge! We must figure out how many kilometers we walked.

Tonight, the whole family is attending a nursing school reunion. Georg will know all the people there, and it is great that one got planned while we are here!

2005-10-19T05:09:00.000-05:00

More photos from last week:

With a missionary to Afghanistan who we met in Pakistan

The castle of Lichtenstein

Even a McDonalds in Lichtenstein!

A soccer game in McDonalds

At Bodensee in Bregenz, Austria

Wow!

Selling huge pretzels and roasted chestnuts

Street musicians

2005-10-18T03:53:00.000-05:00

Oct. 17
Today, Georg and Martha took the car back to the rental shop. They enjoyed their time together walking around town.

In the afternoon, Martha, Georg, Ana Marie, and Paul Stefan went to the workshop of Reinhold Schnabl, a Geigenbaumeister. He took out many violins for us to try, and we found ones that pleased us. However, his cheapest cost 2,500 Euro. Now we know for what to save our money!

We went back to Erich Werner to say that we would like to purchase the violin he loaned us, since it is better than the ones at home, and the price is good compared to what we'd have to pay in Tulsa. Paul Stefan especially likes the violin. Ana Marie does too, but of course they cannot both buy the same one!

Mr. Werner got out three other violins, and said we could take them home to try them. We agreed, and now have another decision to make as to which one is the best buy.

It has become a joke that each time we go out we come back with a violin. Now there are 7 violins in the house - one from a friend, one from a cousin, one from a music store, and four from Erich Werner. Some people collect cars, we collect instruments! :-)

2005-10-17T08:03:00.000-05:00

BACK FROM SWITZERLAND!

Oct. 11
Today, we drove off from Uttenreuth at 6:30am. Daddy had ordered a car for the drive to Switzerland, but at the shop on Monday was told that we could have a Mercedes for the same price. That was a nice surprise. Within four hours during which we encountered much fog, several tunnels, and the German autobahn without a speed limit, we were at the Austrian border. In the city of Bregenz, we tanked up the car because Uncle Peter said the gas would be cheapest there. We drove along the Bodensee(a large lake bordering Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) before getting back on the autobahn. Shortly thereafter, we passed the Switzerland border, where we thought we would have to show our passports, but a man waved us through. Then, he saw Paul Stefan reading his Bible and remarked "Hallelujah!"

Soon, we entered the mountain ranges. For a couple hours, we kept our eyes open, beholding the beautiful, majestic mountains, camera handy for snapping many photos. Then came the Alps, and gradually more snow became visible. Driving along the small, winding roads, descending into the valleys, and ascending up the sides of the continuously appearing peaks, we marveled all the way. Frequently, we passed through small villages nestled in the mountains. The typical Swiss architecture presents a idyllic sight.

Between 4 and 5, we arrived in Fiesch nestled in a valley, and Georg's cousin, Wolfgang Weber, met us at the train station. We walked up the short but steep distance to the Weber's home. He and his wife, Bea, have a chalet with a lower apartment for us to stay for 3 days. The view from their house is great, overlooking the city in the valley below and the snow covered peaks on the right. We enjoyed a dinner of sauerkraut, potatoes, and bratwurst according to the recipe of the Ort butcher shop where Georg and Wolfgang both apprenticed.

Oct. 12 - Today, we drove to Binn, Imfeld, and Heiligkreutz, walked around, and stepped in a couple shops. The three kids posed for a photo in front of a bridge existing since the time of the Romans. Just before arriving back at the house, Wolfgang led us to the underground parking house. Happily, he showed us his red corvette which he keeps there.

Back at the house, Paul Stefan and Ana Marie had time to do violin practice for the wedding. Georg and Martha spent more time with Wolfgang and Bea. Later, we had raclette for dinner. It is broiled cheese with potatoes seasoned with pepper and was a popular meal for shepherds. At 7pm came the substantial news broadcast on the German tv station. At 8:15, the Germany vs. China soccer game began, so of course we gathered in front of the tv to watch. The game ended 1-0 for Germany, which pleased us. :-)

Oct. 13
Today, we walked with Wolfgang Weber, Georg’s cousin, to the cablecar station. After buying tickets, we crowded into the car with many others for the “drive” up the mountain to a very famous overlook on the largest glacier of the Alps. From 1100 to 1300 meters above sea level we went, taking in the tremendous view. At the snow covered top, we encountered the serene atmosphere and gazed out over the mountains, trees, settlements, peaks, and of course, the amazing glacier, 42 km in length. Peter wanted the adventure of walking up to a rock covered mountain from which a perhaps better view could be gained. Paul Stefan and Ana Marie consented to attend, and off the party of three trod. The walk first down and then up took quite a while, Paul Stefan and Peter had no significant trouble, but Ana Marie found the trek to be somewhat difficult and precarious, especially when the trial was nowhere to be found.

But finally, probably after an hour of climbing, the top was reached. The view was truly amazing, and the satisfaction of achievement was also gratifying. Now, we needed to get back to the three adults who had stayed behind. The trail was not found for a while, during which the descent became a bit frightening for Ana Marie. Much concentration was needed to determine the best way to climb down, since the boulders were huge, and some rocks were not secure. Eventually, we made it to the trail, and the rest of the trek went smoothly. Back at the station, Georg bought the kids drinks, to revive them from the exhausting adventure.(perhaps the boys would not agree with this statement)

After taking a couple more pictures, we took the cablecar back to the middle point station to cash in the coupons for lunch which came with our tickets. We sat overlooking the valley and enjoyed our meal. Back at the house, we finished watching a movie Wolfgang highly recommended: “Das Wunder Vom Bern.” For a somewhat recent make, it was quite good, and fun for soccer fans, as the sport was a large part of the film.

Oct. 14
On this day, we left Fiesch en route to Zürick. At about 2:00 we arrived at a home in Rüti, a suburb of the city. A lady named Joke(from Holland) who we’d not met before had agreed to host us for two nights. She served us a meal, during which we got to know a bit about her family. They lived in Pakistan before we did, serving with WEC(World Evangelism Crusade). After moving to Switzerland, her husband died in a work accident in ’99. Now two of her children are missionaries, and the two youngest are still living at home.

Shortly after eating, Paul Stefan and Ana Marie practiced their violin music for the wedding on Saturday. A little before 5:00, we walked with Joke’s son, Timo, to the church not far away. We must have made quite a sight – 6 people walking with two violins, a guitar, and a jimbay(? hand drum). The church is located in an industrial area, to which we took a shortcut through the woods. Once someone finally came to unlock the door, we set up for practice in the auditorium, lined on both sides with windows so one could see the trees outside. Martha helped a bit on the second floor with setup of tables for the reception. After a while, it became apparent that no practice for the worship time was going to happen, so we left for the walk “home.” This time, we took the route along the main street, which was significantly longer, but some exercise was very good. Back at the house, we had dinner with Joke and her daughter, Stephanie. Joke, however came later because she had to open the church once again for the flowers to be set up. She returned exhausted from all the preparations she had helped with, so it was decided that Peter and Paul Stefan would in fact be able to stay in the same room as Ana Marie(it was a very big room) so that she would not have to guide us to another accommodation place. Two more beds were arranged, and soon we all retired, tired and needing some rest before the busy day tomorrow.

Oct. 15
At 10:00, Paul Stefan and Ana Marie met the other members of the worship team at the church. We practiced the songs together, and were “set up” with the sound system. It was a new experience for us. We also played our three songs for the program. A quick walk back to the house and something to eat was followed by eager anticipation for the the bride and groom to arrive at the church. This day, we experienced a Swiss wedding, which was quite culturally informative.

The bride was Lydia, who Georg trained in eye work while in Pakistan about 12 years ago. She works in Afghanistan, and married Barry, a widower, who also works there. When we wrote her about our trip, she invited us to the wedding. How providential that we could attend! Had we not been in Europe anyway, we would not have been able to come, nor have the privilege of sharing music.

At 1:00, the party arrived, and as they walked down the aisle, PS and AM played Joyful, Joyful by Beethoven. There were some words and a prayer by a pastor, followed by the congregational worship. Then, the marriage ceremony was conducted. This was a truly beautiful time, the commitment of two committed Christians to each other. Following the ceremony, PS and AM played the Hallelujah Chorus, which PS arranged for two violins. Lydia told us later that she was so happy to hear it. It had been her wish, but she didn’t know what the final program would include. The program also included a sermon and the playing of a cd of “Our Father” by Cliff Richard. This is the singing of the Lord’s Prayer to the tune of Auld Lang Syne. For the couple’s exit, AM and PS played Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. A little over one hour after the ceremony started, everyone was invited to the reception upstairs.

There was much food, and a program for the reception. Pictures and videos of the couple and Afghanistan work were shown. Stories were told, and a clever way of supporting them as they go back to minister together was conducted. There was a typical Afghan shop set up with goods the guests had been asked to bring. The couple was asked to be there and bargain with the guests who desired to purchase. They of course had experience because that is what one has to do all the time in Afghanistan. To see their interactions was quite interesting.

At about 4:00, the party of invited quests departed in a bus and van for some unannounced adventure. The bus driver, in his Swedish German which was translated into English, described the places we saw along the way. At a restaurant in the mountains, we stopped and were told to follow Paul, Lydia’s brother. He led us to a great overview where a man stood with an Alp Horn. He played some music and then also guitar while he blew into the horn. All the notes were made solely by his mouth, since there were no buttons of any kind…impressive! The couple posed for pictures with him and even tried the horn themselves. Then, there was a group picture, and various groups posed separately with the couple. These groups were the family, Afghanistan colleagues, England friends(Barry is from England), Swedish friends, and our family got to pose as well. After about an hour, we all got back in the bus. We saw more of the countryside and finally stopped at a restaurant. Through the glass windows, we could see fancifully decorated tables. The meal of four courses – soup, salad, main dish, and dessert, was spread over 4 ½ hours, interspersed with program.

The two main planners of the day had done a fantastic job. People shared stories, music, photos from Afghanistan, and we even played a game where the couple had to figure out the disease of all the guests. Lydia discovered that all the ladies answered positively, and all the men answered negatively to the questions. We were quite tired from having been involved for about 12 hours with the wedding, and AM remarked she was almost too tired to eat. We enjoyed the fellowship with people sitting at our table. Finally, the day came to a close, and everyone was invited outside to light sparklers and a final prayer together. Then, people departed, and we said farewell. Our last picture was made at 12:06. We were glad to get to bed. But, we do have to say that the day was very enjoyable, and are glad to have been a part of such a celebration.

Oct. 16
We had breakfast with Joke and then drove off towards Germany again. We took our time, stopping in Liechtenstein for a drink at a McDonalds and buying a couple postcards. In Bregenz, we took a walk along Bodensee, snacking on some roasted chestnuts and stopping at a Kiosk for lunch. We arrived in Uttenreuth at about 6:00, and had dinner with the Staschs. The evening was filled with telling them about our week and hearing about theirs as well.

The mountain road

The Webers house

The view from Webers house

Fiesch

In front of a Roman bridge in Binn

Wolfgang and Bea

The glacier

With Lydia and Barry

Imitation Afghan shop

With a missionary to Afghanistan(left) and a lady from England(middle)

Paul Stefan talking with Lydia's cousin

2005-10-10T01:30:00.000-05:00

Visiting with Erich Werner - Geigenbaumeister

Walking in the inner city of Erlangen

Oct. 7 - We left Uttenreuth at 9:30, arriving in Würzburg about 11:00 Here are photos of the city and surrounding countryside.

The Rettelbachs, with whom we are related, hosted us at their house when were in Germany previously, and were excited about our visit. We enjoyed some water in Taiwanese cups before a tasty meal of chicken, potatoes, and sumptuous salads. The time spent with them included conversation about family, work, college, and some violin music. We left a little after 4:00, in time to join the Staschs for grilling in their backyard. The four boys then played Risk together, finishing their game which lasted a week, and starting a new one.

Oct. 8 - Unlike weekdays, all four Staschs and we had breakfast together. Uncle Peter accompanied Timo at his soccer game while the rest of us walked to Kay's game nearby. At one of the three soccer fields, a game of little children was going on. They were very cute to watch.

At 11:00, Kay's game commenced. We enjoyed watching and seeing the 11 goals of his team. Getting home, we heard that Timo's team had also won by 4 goals above the other team's four. The twins teams scored 19 goals that morning. Yippee!

In the afternoon, everyone helped with chores.(except Martha, who after a couple days was still sick in bed) At 5:00. Ana Marie showed her graduation dvd, which was followed by dinner and the watching of Germany vs. Turkey in soccer. Unfortunately, the score became 2 - 0 for Turkey.

Oct. 9 - Today, Georg, Ana Marie, and Paul Stefan went to church(Martha was not feeling well, and Peter stayed home too.). After the meaningful service, two appointments with friends were arranged for the week after being in Switzerland. At lunch, Martha remarked that Aunt Nisha had offered Paul Stefan and Ana Marie's music for a baptism service at 3:30. This totally shocked Ana Marie, so they practiced a little on "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" since it is also a German hymn. The five of us with Aunt Rosi and Timo drove to a Baptist church where the baptism would be, and the music was not even mentioned at the church. We met Uncle Hermann, Aunt Nisha, and Varun there. The building was full of people who came to see the 5(The reason we attended was because one of Varun's good friends was one of them who accepted Christ, and had invited anyone who wished to attend.) who would be baptised. The truly beautiful service featured testimonies of the each of the five young people. Twenty minutes after the service, everyone exited the room and waited while tables for Kaffeetrinken were set up and decorated. We found very inexpensive books at the small bookstore in the church lobby. Therefore, we now have some more German reading material on topics of interest.:-)

Oct. 10 - It is now 7:30, and we are anticipating a full day of preparation for our drive to Switzerland tomorrow. We will be visiting one of Georg's cousins and attending the wedding of a missionary friend where Paul Stefan and Ana Marie will share some music.

2005-10-07T00:51:00.001-05:00

Most of the family

All the cousins walking

All the cousins

For those of you non-germans, here is a code for understanding some words:
Tante=Aunt
Onkel=Uncle
Geige=Violin
Brötchen=rolls
Meister=master
Bauer=builder
Kaffeetrinken=the traditional afternoon coffeetime

October 4th - The story goes like this... on the night of the 3rd(rather, the early morning of the 4th), when we went to bed, our children's room was pitch black. We could not even see our hands in front of our face. "How strange that there are no city lights!" we thought. Then, in the morning, I was awake, but waiting for light to shine in the window before rising. Daddy entered the room, remarking that it was 9:00. It was then realized that the blinds outside had been closed, allowing absolutely no light to enter. A bit frustrating it was...

Daddy, Ana Marie, and Peter took a short walk to the bakery to purchase some authentic German brötchen for breakfast. Following breakfast was some time for music practice. We stayed home the whole day except for late afternoon, when Tante R and Mommy went for a walk, accompanied by Ana Marie. Peter and Paul Stefan meanwhile joined K at his soccer training. To walk through the forest and field, taking in the green countryside, distant castle, church, and quaint homes, and enjoying the cool autumn breeze, was absolutely lovely.

October 5th - Early afternoon, we walked to the bus stop, took the bus into Erlangen, and got out close to Bismark Street(Strasse). Daddy spent some of his childhood in a house on that street. We stepped into a sports shop, where Peter happily purchased some soccer accessories. Then on we went, past the Ort family house, past the playground we kids played in 8 years ago, and to a music shop. There, we decided to borrow a violin for a month so we could play duets with Shannon's violin. Next, we visited the butcher shop and house where Daddy grew up. It is now a cafe, totally different and renovated, but we still walked through, remembering where the separate rooms had been. After drinking our hot chocolate(Schokolade mit Sahne), we stopped in two more shops, picked up the violin, and got on another bus bound for Uttenreuth. We spent the evening with Tante N, V, and S in Hessdorf. Tante N is from India, and cooked us a wonderful Thai meal. It was after 10:00 when we made our way home.

October 6th - Today, we spent the morning practicing music since we get to play at a wedding in Switzerland on the 15th. At 3:00, we had an appointment with a Meistergeigenbauer(master violin maker) in Bubenreuth. He had four violins out for us to try, and we left with one for the weekend. The violin maker was very friendly, even explaining how the instruments are made. Interestingly, Yehudi Mennuin and Isaac Stern(?) bought violins from him. That indicates something about the quality of his work! Bubenreuth is actually a Geigenbauersiedlung(violin makers town). We plan to go back to look at other violins and visit a weekly show where they display their work. Next, we went for Kaffeetrinken with the Es(relatives). Mr. E had arranged the whole meeting with the Geigenbauer(violin maker). Now it is 8:45. Peter and Paul Stefan enjoyed playing soccer with T and a couple of his friends before dinner. Tomorrow, we are visiting some more relatives in Würzburg.

2005-10-06T05:20:00.001-05:00

More Photos:

A huge pipe organ

Riding in the train from Aschaffenburg to Fürth

Paul Stefan and Peter with T and K

The S's house

Buying bread in the morning

Posing with cousin V

Walking in Uttenreuth - Martha with Aunt R

2005-10-04T14:00:00.000-05:00

First of all some pictures of the last week:

Playing "International Cafe" with Uncle Andreas

In the inner city of Frankfurt

At the lookout over Frankfurt

A market of many various shops

The opera house of Frankfurt

It is now a full week since we arrived. We have greatly enjoyed our time with Peter and Rosi, Timo and Kay. On Sunday, we attended our home church in Erlangen, where it was great to meet many friends again. The service lasted two hours, and afterwards there was a potluck to celebrate the German Thanksgiving. In the afternoon, the boys(Paul Stefan, Peter, Timo, and Kay) played some ping-pong and then soccer on the practice field. Football, as it's called in Germany, is the favorite sport of the cousins. To play with two who are on teams is fun for PS and P.

Aunt Rosi and Uncle Peter showed Martha and Ana Marie (Georg was not feeling well) around Uttenreuth. To take walks in Germany is absolutely the norm. The sidewalks, fields, and forests are plenty. After arriving back home, the group of 5 cousins took off on bikes. They rode on the sidewalks and in the forest for quite a long time, and will surely embark on such an adventure again.

Monday was the German reunification holiday. Since it was also Varun's (a cousin in Hessdorf) 23rd birthday, the two families drove over in the afternoon. The family that lives in Hessdorf is Uncle Hermann, Aunt Nisha, Varun and Shannon. Following the coffeetime, the 7 cousins took a long walk to the next town and through the fields, talking most of the way. After 8 years, we were all together again.

We arrived back at the house, where Varun got to open gifts. The night before, we cousins from Uttenreuth spent time creatively packing the laptop which we had brought at Uncle Hermann's present from the US. We finally decided to pack a big box with newspaper, boxes, a toy laptop, and two stuffed animals. Underneath everything, on a paper taped to the bottom of the box, we wrote, "Ha! Ha! Please melde yourself bei your cousins." This of course is a mixture of two languages telling him to go to his cousins. Next, Kay took Uncle Hermann(who did not know about this method of giving his gift) to the car, where the real gift was wrapped. Varun had dreamed of owning a laptop for a long time, so was very appreciative.

The Staschs left soon afterwards, but we stayed for dinner. The cousins spent time discussing various topics. The flavorfull Thai meal was also very good. Following the meal, we showed my graduation dvd, since Uncle Hemann was unable to attend. Arriving home after midnight, everyone was happy to go to bed. And now it is late on the 4th - also time to retire and get up at a reasonable time tomorrow morning.

2005-10-01T15:00:00.000-05:00

It is now 11:00pm on Saturday, October 1. Paul Stefan and Peter are playing games with twin cousins Timo and Kay(both boys), but we will soon be going to bed. Now, for some news...

On Thursday, after meeting Hanne and Andreas in the hotel for breakfast, we drove into Frankfurt, parked the cars, and began our exploration around downtown. Unlike America, there is a large area with shops, malls, restaurants, and cafes set aside for walking only. There are old buildings and people absolutely everywhere, even in the middle of the day. We enjoyed wallking around and sometimes stopping for a drink in one of the many cafes. We've never seen so many cafes! There is one almost every few shops.

On the way back to the apartment, we stopped at Wal Mart and a gas station. A German Wal Mart is very similiar to those in America. The one we visited seemed as though it had more merchandise than the one we regularly visit in Tulsa. At the gas station, the automobile next to us had paid 279 Euro. Can we really complain about the prices in Tulsa?

Andreas again cooked a wonderful dinner, with which Ana Marie enjoyed helping. The game International Cafe was a fun activity thereafter. We arrived back at the hotel quite late, and the boys got to bed even later because a soccer(in Germany it is football) game was being televised.

On Friday, our group of 7 drove into downtown Darmstadt to visit a music shop. We also spent some time just walking around, and then drove back to the apartment. Then, late afternoon and evening was spent with a family whom Martha first knew before she married(the husband and wife worked in the same hospital as she did). The children enjoyed spending time with the four Seger children - walking the dog, talking, playing table tennis, and just spending time together. The time was very good, and it became a late night for us once again.

This morning, we packed our bags and after breakfast drove to the train station for the ride starting at 12:20. We were going to Fürth, which is close to Erlangen and Uttenreuth, the home of Georg's sister, Rosi. To be in Germany and not drive on a train would be a very sad thing. The almost 3 hour train ride was much more enjoyable than a car ride would have been. For most of the time we had the whole first car to ourselves. The driver was kind to let us in the "cockpit" and explain a few things. Now we know how the train stays on the tracks!

Aunt Rosi picked us up in Fürth, and drove us immediately to her home in Uttenreuth. We greeted our two cousins and Uncle Peter and sat down for a coffeebreak(which here is called "Kaffeetrinken"). Thereafter, we were shown our accomodations, a soccer game was watched, and dinner was prepared. Now, a couple of hours later, I am here updating, and trying to upload pictures, which will give you a somewhat visual report of our trip thus far.(more pictures to come later)

Tulsa - checking in

On the bus ride in London

Finally here!

Coffeetime with Aunt Hanne at the Frankfurt airport

Taking the luggage up the escalator

A German neighborhood

Squeezing into Aunt Hanne's car

A Smart

A bratwurst stand in front of the store

2005-09-28T12:15:00.000-05:00

It is almost 6pm, and Uncle Andreas, a professional chef, is cooking dinner. We are enjoying some time at his and Aunt Hanne´s(Georg´s sister) apartment in Rödermark, just outside Frankfurt.

First, the news on our trip....
We flew with British Airways the whole way, and were impressed with the kind service of all the crew onboard. Security checks were no problem at all. The departure from Dallas was at about 5pm on Monday. The three children sat on the left side of the plane, while Georg and Martha sat just across the aisle. Shortly after taking off(to experience that again...ahhhh), crew members offered drinks to the passengers. Then about an hour later, we enjoyed a meal of chicken and rice or ravioli(whatever you chose) complete with salad, a roll, and dessert. Real British tea(the best) was also a treat. Contrary to what had been reported by some others, the meal was good. International flights must have particularly good service, which we experienced in many ways.

We tried to sleep, but generally, it was difficult to do it very deeply. The 7-hour flight passed swiftly, bringing us to the morning, breakfast, and landing in London at the Gatwick airport at 7am. It was fascinating to see the British isles from the plane. Thereafter, we had 3 hours till the next flight from Heathrow airport, which is on the other end of London. We did not miss the plane even though we had to get the tickets, pick up our luggage, get on a bus, ride to Heathrow(which took 1 1/2 hours because of traffic), check in again, and use the meal coupons to pick up some food. The meals on the flight had been so close together that the food was not for hunger but rather to take the wonderful opportunity afforded by 10 British pounds for each of us.

It is fascinating to notice the differences in airports in London and Germany than in the US. The greatest difference seems to be the lack of huge amounts of space. Many things in Europe is built much closer together.

Well, we just made it to the gate in time, and got into the vastly smaller British Airways plane(than the previous one) for the 1 hour flight to Frankfurt. We had been told there was no food served on this flight, which is why we were given coupons, but the kind crew once again served drinks and a little shortbread to go with it. Promptly, we landed in Frankfurt, finally at our destination and our second home! By this time we were very tired out.

Aunt Hanne met us, and took us to a cafe to "catch up" somewhat before leaving. For the first time during the trip, we used carts for luggage. Elevators(or lifts) came in handy when steps were involved, but finally, we copied what others had done, and actually took the carts on the escalator. Pictures will back it up! We loaded the two cars on the 14th floor of the parking garage. Ana Marie was overjoyed to finally be able to see a Smart car. Also, parking places labeled Frauenparkplatz(Ladies parking spot), which are a little bigger for convenience, were interesting to see. All the parking places are small because the cars are small, and there is not much space.

It took about 25 minutes on the Autonbahn(where you can drive 100 to 120 km per hour) to reach the hotel, a Best Western in the forest. This BW is not one you´d see in the states, however. It looks very rustic on the outside, and the rooms are extremely different. Pictures will show the difference. After unpacking, we had time to rest before enjoying a leisurely dinner with Aunt Hanne in La Fountain, the restaurant on the ground floor. About 9:30, after taking a short walk outside in the great cool evening air, we fell into bed and slept well...for the first time in 24 hours.

We got up this morning and enjoyed our first German breakfast, complete with a buffet of real German bread, meusli, yoghurt, fruit, and wurst(sausage). A little after 1:00, we arrived at Uncle Andreas and Aunt Hanne´s apartment. Following the delivery of their new dinner table, we drove to a market to purchase some groceries. Next, we stopped at a cafe next to a music school. A poster advertising a piano concert this evening looked intriquing, but we decided against it for precious time with relatives.

Now, the apartment is filled with the smell of wonderful food, which will soon be ready, and someone else must use the computer. Tomorrow, there will hopefully be pictures!