Saturday, May 17, 2008

Day-Trippers

We finally made it out of our state again! ...Only to drive back to our state about ten minutes later. The drive to Trier took us through Saarland, a bordering German state, for just a few moments.

Trier might not be a city you've heard much about in the past, but if you check out our photos you may learn a few new things! Trier lies next to the Mosel river, close to Luxembourg. The Mosel river valley is known as one of the best wine-producing regions in Germany. Two thousand years ago, Trier was a bustling Roman city with some 40,000 inhabitants. It is nowhere near that large today. However, archaeologists have unearthed and recreated much of the incredible Roman architecture. Because of its Roman history, Trier is one of the cities on the World Heritage List.

Beyond the rich historical experience one can have in Trier, something must be said for the region's beauty. It was one of the greenest cities I've ever witnessed. The hills rise up sharply on either side of city and river, covered with trees, goldenrod, and many grape vines. Although we were visiting a busy city with a thriving pedestrian district (hello shopping!), industrial zone, and other typical businesses, it felt as if we were taking a countryside holiday.

One of my favorite moments of the day was when my husband experienced one of my favorite aspects of travel- realizing the depth of the history you are seeing. Wondering who else has set foot in the same location you are currently standing- maybe a Roman Emperor. Maybe even, in some instances, a distant relative. It's an amazing feeling.

Another great part of the day was our quick stop at a Weinstube, where were had some light refreshment. Josh tried German meatloaf, which came with the most delicious potatoes I've ever tasted.

I enjoyed two of three cheeses and the bread on a cheese platter- the third cheese was a local farmer's cheese and I felt bad when I couldn't bring myself to eat it due to the scent. If anyone else has a strong dislike of blue cheese, they may understand my problem.

Once we had seen what we came to see, we headed back toward home for a barbecue with some friends. Josh has a new best friend, I think. She is three and loves him because he brings her cookies from the bakery down the street. I'm getting jealous. :o)

Friday, May 9, 2008

Long time, no blog

Well, sorry it's been so long. We probably won't gain any faithful readers with such sporadic blogging habits, but please stick around for a bit!

We have been quite busy for the last few weeks. Highlights...

-We purchased our bowling balls and shoes. I don't remember if I already wrote about this, so sorry if there is repetition.

-Went to IKEA with Steve and Kara, and drove in a huge 9-passenger van with the back seats removed b/c all moving trucks were rented out for the day. We named the van Maude. The day was beautiful, so we had a lovely drive through the German countryside. At Ikea, we spent a ridiculous amount of money, but we now have a real bed, two new desks, two bookcases, a headboard, and an end table. It was worth the trip and the cost. The work of getting everything to the fourth floor was awful, and it took a long time to put everything together... but still, it was worth it.

-Josh found out that he is not being switched to another squad at this time. Mids are coming up, but we prefer that to... frustration. I'll leave it at that.

-We bought the exercise bike we've been drooling over for a few months, and it is wonderful!

-The trees here seem to be more bright and green than I've ever seen before. Seriously, they practically glow. It's impressive! Also, I've managed to keep four potted herbs alive for about 2.5 months, and so far my orchid has lasted about two weeks. This is really good, for my track record.

-We are going to babysit some friend's kids for the first time tomorrow. I'm pretty excited, and a little bit nervous.

-And lastly, there are only 30 days until I head west for three weeks of fun. :o)

Please let us know what you're up to! We miss hearing from people!