Well we made it.
I made the entire trip without bolting for the airport to go home early like a lot of people thought! We had a great time, but it was so nice to have Alex & Tara pick us up at the airport last night.
The rest of the kids along with our contractor Scott and his main guy Maricio, were at the new house waiting for us Sean & Carley had picked up dinner at Goode Co. BBQ. It was a great evening we were like little kids at Christmas walking around the house seeing all the stuff Scott and Camille had achieved while we were gone. Its really a beautiful place and cant wait to have everyone over.
Spent our first night in the new place last night and it was great, it looks like we have got another winner for a home.
This is it for the blog, thanks for following its been fun sharing our stories. Sometimes the hardest part of the posting was trying to think of a title for the post!
Thanks to everyone, talk to you soon.
D&D
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Houston Bound!
Well its been one heck of a 5 week journey.
Thanks for all the comments we appreciate them. Just to give you the amount of travelling we have done in order to get back from Amsterdam yesterday we went through 4 countries and a 2 hour ferry ride between France and England. We travelled over 10,000 kilometers (6250 miles) an average of 240 miles every day.
Got back into London yesterday about 5 PM and met up with a few of the folks from the tour for drinks to say goodbye.
The great thing that we will take back from this tour is all the new friends we made on this trip. It was a great group, Brent our tour director did a great job of getting us off the beaten tracks and to places we would have never thought of going.
A big thank you to three groups of people.
First off all of my staff at work, Dustin, Todd, Blake, Patti, Darrel, Kim, Neal, Sue, Clay, Brock, Trena, Leddie and Christina. If it weren't for my full confidence in all of you I would have NEVER been able to take this trip THANK YOU all so much.
To our contractor Scott, decorator Camille and Ebi for looking after completing (or close to it) the finishing of the home, packing, moving and unpacking.
To our family for looking after things while we were away, Sean & Carley, Dustin & Taylor, Blake & Tamra and Alex & Tara.
Cheerio,
D&D
Thanks for all the comments we appreciate them. Just to give you the amount of travelling we have done in order to get back from Amsterdam yesterday we went through 4 countries and a 2 hour ferry ride between France and England. We travelled over 10,000 kilometers (6250 miles) an average of 240 miles every day.
Got back into London yesterday about 5 PM and met up with a few of the folks from the tour for drinks to say goodbye.
The great thing that we will take back from this tour is all the new friends we made on this trip. It was a great group, Brent our tour director did a great job of getting us off the beaten tracks and to places we would have never thought of going.
A big thank you to three groups of people.
First off all of my staff at work, Dustin, Todd, Blake, Patti, Darrel, Kim, Neal, Sue, Clay, Brock, Trena, Leddie and Christina. If it weren't for my full confidence in all of you I would have NEVER been able to take this trip THANK YOU all so much.
To our contractor Scott, decorator Camille and Ebi for looking after completing (or close to it) the finishing of the home, packing, moving and unpacking.
To our family for looking after things while we were away, Sean & Carley, Dustin & Taylor, Blake & Tamra and Alex & Tara.
Cheerio,
D&D
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Out in Nether Netherland
Good evening all,
Well we are at our last overnight stop in Europe in Amsterdam. Got in here mid afternoon stopped in at Cologne (spelled Koln in Deutschspeak).
Magnificent old church that they are restoring and saying it will take 100 years to finish. The place originally took 700 years to complete so I guess some techniques have improved huh? The material that they built the original facade from is so soft and porous that any attempt to clean it will destroy the stonework. So what they are doing is taking each stone out and replacing it with a new one. I said its just a little bit slower than putting new siding on a house :)
Hit the Netherlands about 1 pm interesting seeing still some old style windmills pumping water out of the lowlands into the canals and the waters held back by dikes. Apparently the Dutch have a saying that God created the world in six days and the Dutch created Holland on the 7th. Almost 50% of the land here has been reclaimed from the waters and the seas. Since all pasture lands here are separated by canals there aren't any barb wire fences so rumor has it that Rolls Royce only buys there cowhides for their leather upholstery from here. (so they say) :)
Got in to Amsterdam about 4 and walked around a bit downtown. Saw some of the places that Lary and Linda Fisher took us to almost 5 years ago. Lary they're still working on the bridge and road way around the train station. Went on a canal tour and then were dropped off at a floating restaurant for dinner. After dinner went for a quick walk through the red light district but nobody bought me anything there :(
Its actually pretty demeaning to even walk through there in my honest opinion but to each their own.
Just got back in, we are off at 7:00 am tomorrow to catch the ferry at Calais back to London. We will be traveling through Brussels to get there. In total we will have visited England, France, Spain, Monaco, Italy,The Vatican City, Austria, Lichtenstien, Switzerland, Germany, The Netherlands and Brussels in the span of 27 days. Its been a great trip VERY busy really no chance to relax except for the pictures that you see of me sleeping on the bus :) but we have seen and done a lot. I liked the tour and of course all the great people we have gotten to meet!
Will do a recap tomorrow night or Friday morning before we head for the airport back to Houston.
Good night all,
D&D
Well we are at our last overnight stop in Europe in Amsterdam. Got in here mid afternoon stopped in at Cologne (spelled Koln in Deutschspeak).
Magnificent old church that they are restoring and saying it will take 100 years to finish. The place originally took 700 years to complete so I guess some techniques have improved huh? The material that they built the original facade from is so soft and porous that any attempt to clean it will destroy the stonework. So what they are doing is taking each stone out and replacing it with a new one. I said its just a little bit slower than putting new siding on a house :)
Hit the Netherlands about 1 pm interesting seeing still some old style windmills pumping water out of the lowlands into the canals and the waters held back by dikes. Apparently the Dutch have a saying that God created the world in six days and the Dutch created Holland on the 7th. Almost 50% of the land here has been reclaimed from the waters and the seas. Since all pasture lands here are separated by canals there aren't any barb wire fences so rumor has it that Rolls Royce only buys there cowhides for their leather upholstery from here. (so they say) :)
Got in to Amsterdam about 4 and walked around a bit downtown. Saw some of the places that Lary and Linda Fisher took us to almost 5 years ago. Lary they're still working on the bridge and road way around the train station. Went on a canal tour and then were dropped off at a floating restaurant for dinner. After dinner went for a quick walk through the red light district but nobody bought me anything there :(
Its actually pretty demeaning to even walk through there in my honest opinion but to each their own.
Just got back in, we are off at 7:00 am tomorrow to catch the ferry at Calais back to London. We will be traveling through Brussels to get there. In total we will have visited England, France, Spain, Monaco, Italy,The Vatican City, Austria, Lichtenstien, Switzerland, Germany, The Netherlands and Brussels in the span of 27 days. Its been a great trip VERY busy really no chance to relax except for the pictures that you see of me sleeping on the bus :) but we have seen and done a lot. I liked the tour and of course all the great people we have gotten to meet!
Will do a recap tomorrow night or Friday morning before we head for the airport back to Houston.
Good night all,
D&D
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Damn German Keyboards!
Good Morning All,
Sorry for the delay in posting but have been a bit under the weather the last couple of days and could not get internet access either.
Excuse any typos as I am using the hotel computer and this German keyboard has the y & z interchanged along with a whole bunch of other modifications.
Munich was a beautifull hotel but after staying in the small hotels the big chain ones sure lose there charm in a hurry. Sundaz morning went down to the town square early on the town hall has a huge glockenspiel about 3 stories high. There were about 20 teams of horses being harnessed up and they were going to church to get blessed then off to the Vatican for some other blessing. The teams, harness's and carriages were all polished and looked very sharp.
From there it was on to Lichtenstien a principality that is protected by the Swiss. Then into Switzerland went through Zurich which is the banking center. Todd I checked on your account there and its all looking fine. :)
Stayed in Luzern which is on the shores of Lake Lucerne beautiful buildings and great history. Took a cog wheel train to the top of Mt. Rigi to an elevation of about 6000 feet a little foggy but got to see all the little dairies and farms all the way up. They move the cows up to the summer pastures and take the milk for cheese and bring the cheese and cows back down at the end of the summer.
Did a lake tour as well as a tour and carriage ride at a local farm. Went to a beer garden with an oompah papa band, accordians and alpen horns very entertaining evening. NO I did not get up on stage in liederhosen :)
Left Switzerland yesterday morning and the traffic on the autobahn was dead slow with all the truck traffic and construction. Stopped in Hiedleberg and then got on a boat cruise down the Rhine river to Boppard. There is a castle or watchtower on every hill along the river. Tax houses along the bank that used to collect tolls from foriegn traffic. Vineyards that seem to grow straight up the side of the hill. Very relaxing and the views were stunning. Great little hotel along the waterfront the Hotel Bellevue in Boppard.
Up this morning and on to Amsterdam. Then tomorrow on to London and home Friday :)
Talk to zou later.
D&D
.
Sorry for the delay in posting but have been a bit under the weather the last couple of days and could not get internet access either.
Excuse any typos as I am using the hotel computer and this German keyboard has the y & z interchanged along with a whole bunch of other modifications.
Munich was a beautifull hotel but after staying in the small hotels the big chain ones sure lose there charm in a hurry. Sundaz morning went down to the town square early on the town hall has a huge glockenspiel about 3 stories high. There were about 20 teams of horses being harnessed up and they were going to church to get blessed then off to the Vatican for some other blessing. The teams, harness's and carriages were all polished and looked very sharp.
From there it was on to Lichtenstien a principality that is protected by the Swiss. Then into Switzerland went through Zurich which is the banking center. Todd I checked on your account there and its all looking fine. :)
Stayed in Luzern which is on the shores of Lake Lucerne beautiful buildings and great history. Took a cog wheel train to the top of Mt. Rigi to an elevation of about 6000 feet a little foggy but got to see all the little dairies and farms all the way up. They move the cows up to the summer pastures and take the milk for cheese and bring the cheese and cows back down at the end of the summer.
Did a lake tour as well as a tour and carriage ride at a local farm. Went to a beer garden with an oompah papa band, accordians and alpen horns very entertaining evening. NO I did not get up on stage in liederhosen :)
Left Switzerland yesterday morning and the traffic on the autobahn was dead slow with all the truck traffic and construction. Stopped in Hiedleberg and then got on a boat cruise down the Rhine river to Boppard. There is a castle or watchtower on every hill along the river. Tax houses along the bank that used to collect tolls from foriegn traffic. Vineyards that seem to grow straight up the side of the hill. Very relaxing and the views were stunning. Great little hotel along the waterfront the Hotel Bellevue in Boppard.
Up this morning and on to Amsterdam. Then tomorrow on to London and home Friday :)
Talk to zou later.
D&D
.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
The Hills are alive.... with the sound of Dale Snoring.... :)
Good Evening,
Left Vienna early this AM and went to Salzburg. The home of Mozart and the Von Trapp family from the sound of music. Pretty amazing Mozart lived in about 20 homes each claiming to be his residence and apparently Julie Andrews stepped on every stone on the cobble stone streets ( Can you tell i am being a little sarcastic?) :)
It is a very picturesque city in Bavaria, Austria and the name takes it self from the Salt mines that date back to 700 BC and even the river here has a high concentration of salt in it. It is like a story book setting with the homes and farms and mountains.
Off to Switzerland for two days in the morning we will talk to you tomorrow night.
D&D
Left Vienna early this AM and went to Salzburg. The home of Mozart and the Von Trapp family from the sound of music. Pretty amazing Mozart lived in about 20 homes each claiming to be his residence and apparently Julie Andrews stepped on every stone on the cobble stone streets ( Can you tell i am being a little sarcastic?) :)
It is a very picturesque city in Bavaria, Austria and the name takes it self from the Salt mines that date back to 700 BC and even the river here has a high concentration of salt in it. It is like a story book setting with the homes and farms and mountains.
From there we went to the Eagles Nest which is a solid stone building built on the top of a 6000' mountain. Martin Boorman and the engineer who designed and built the Autobahn in Germany prior to WWII designed and built this place as a present for Hitler for his 50th birthday. The amazing part was they built this place in 13 months which included building about 4 miles of road up the mountain including digging tunnels to get to the building site.
From there it was on to Munich and got in about 7 tonight. Just finished up dinner and too tired to hit the beer halls. OH WELL :( I hate getting old.
Off to Switzerland for two days in the morning we will talk to you tomorrow night.
D&D
Friday, June 3, 2011
Austrian Wake Up Call, Roust!
Started the day with a great laugh. In Italy we were lucky to even get a wake up call. They are rather a relaxed country. Lunch about 2 supper about 8 or 9, if you want to get up in the morning ok.. if not thats ok too.
This morning the phone rings and I hear in a clear German accent,
"Goot morgen! You are at the Renasaince Hotel in Vienna. It is 6:15. The weather is cloudy vit a chance of rain. Pach your oombrella and a coat!"
Good gawd they not only give you a wake up call but tell you how to dress! I was laughing all day about that one :)
They had a very nice breakfast buffet here but I have been sticking to fruits the entire trip. (Can't stand the ketchup here so no sense having the eggs) Man no ketchup no TV for 5 weeks its a wonder I haven't murdered someone yet.
Went to Schumburg Palace which was the summer palace of the Hapsburgs. Quite a place 1400 rooms and 3000 workers on site at its peak. To this day there are still people living in the servants quarters whose ancesters worked for the royal family. They are allowed to live there rent free and the lease can be passed down to their heirs. I liked it a lot better than the Versaille which was pretty well stripped during the French Revolution here everything is still intact. The Hapsburgs were quite the dynasty ruled for 640 years until the start of WWII. Had kingdoms from Asia (the Phillipines) South America and to the Russian border. I believe my great grandfathers immigration papers had said he was born in the Austro-Hungarian Empire which entailed present day Ukraine.
From there it was a city driving tour of the Winter Palace (3000 rooms), Museums and the Hapburg Crypt which has 145 of the Hapsburgs buried there.
This evening we went about 30 minutes out of town for dinner to a small town called Marchfelderhof to a family restaraunt that has been in existence for almost 200 years. And everything that the family ever collected is on the walls the ceilings everywhere. Pictures and autographs from movie stars and dignitaries it was truly cool. They had the entire staff outside the restaurant to greet us (about 15 of them) and had a red ribbon cutting ceremony for us to enter the place. After supper the band played Vieneese Waltz's and they had a couple do a dance for us and then the couple took some of us up to dance with them.
D&D
This morning the phone rings and I hear in a clear German accent,
"Goot morgen! You are at the Renasaince Hotel in Vienna. It is 6:15. The weather is cloudy vit a chance of rain. Pach your oombrella and a coat!"
Good gawd they not only give you a wake up call but tell you how to dress! I was laughing all day about that one :)
They had a very nice breakfast buffet here but I have been sticking to fruits the entire trip. (Can't stand the ketchup here so no sense having the eggs) Man no ketchup no TV for 5 weeks its a wonder I haven't murdered someone yet.
Went to Schumburg Palace which was the summer palace of the Hapsburgs. Quite a place 1400 rooms and 3000 workers on site at its peak. To this day there are still people living in the servants quarters whose ancesters worked for the royal family. They are allowed to live there rent free and the lease can be passed down to their heirs. I liked it a lot better than the Versaille which was pretty well stripped during the French Revolution here everything is still intact. The Hapsburgs were quite the dynasty ruled for 640 years until the start of WWII. Had kingdoms from Asia (the Phillipines) South America and to the Russian border. I believe my great grandfathers immigration papers had said he was born in the Austro-Hungarian Empire which entailed present day Ukraine.
From there it was a city driving tour of the Winter Palace (3000 rooms), Museums and the Hapburg Crypt which has 145 of the Hapsburgs buried there.
This evening we went about 30 minutes out of town for dinner to a small town called Marchfelderhof to a family restaraunt that has been in existence for almost 200 years. And everything that the family ever collected is on the walls the ceilings everywhere. Pictures and autographs from movie stars and dignitaries it was truly cool. They had the entire staff outside the restaurant to greet us (about 15 of them) and had a red ribbon cutting ceremony for us to enter the place. After supper the band played Vieneese Waltz's and they had a couple do a dance for us and then the couple took some of us up to dance with them.
Sean will post the photos here but I was doing well dancing but then Peter had to cut in on my action, the no goodnik! It was a lot of fun, amazing how dancing with a pretty girl could make me forget about the pain in my knee. Know I understand how my Uncle John always had a bad back but still loved to go dancing all the time!
The final photo is of the lady Peter and I danced with as well as Brent our tour director. Again another fantastic day thanks to Brent :)
Good night all we are off to Salzburg tomorrow morning touring the city, stopping in at the Eagles Nest which was Hitlers mountain retreat when he annexed Austria and then to spend the night in Munich.
D&D
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Ach der lieber Austria
Evening all,
It was a long day from Vienna but very picturesque. Left the hotel at 7:00 and took a water taxi over to where we met the bus. Then started traveling north towards the Austrian border.
Its a holiday in Europe today called Ascension Day and most people take tomorrow off as well so the highways were packed. So were all the road side truck stops and rest areas as all truck traffic is shut down until midnight tonight to accommodate the holiday traffic. Traveling through the Dolomite Mountains which make up the border between Italy and Austria reminded me a lot of our Rocky Mountains a lot of granite and limestone.
Once inside Austria it is a lot like the interior of BC a lot of logging some farm land lots of ravines, mountains and rivers. Steep roofs on all the houses for the snow and most farm homes have the barns attached. The odor must be wonderful!
Stopped in a little town called Kinderburg and had a rest at a little cafe called "Fritz" the owner's first name is Fritz, his last name is Fritz, his dad was Fritz and his son is Fritz. I am thinking George Foreman took a lesson from this guy in naming his kids :) (for those of you that don't know all of George Foremans sons are named George).
Got into Austria checked in and went directly to dinner. What a place, it was the original concert hall built for Johann Strauss. A great dinner then we were ushered into the next room where an orchestra played Strauss, Mozart and Chopin. There was a soprano and tenor singers as well as a ballet couple to do waltz's and some ethnic dancing as well.
It was a great evening quite enjoyable (It weren't no Asleep at the wheel or The Polka Kings but it was pretty damn good ) :)
Off to Shumberg Gardens, City tour and a tour of the Hapsburg Crypts tomorrow.
Gute Nacht
D&D
It was a long day from Vienna but very picturesque. Left the hotel at 7:00 and took a water taxi over to where we met the bus. Then started traveling north towards the Austrian border.
Its a holiday in Europe today called Ascension Day and most people take tomorrow off as well so the highways were packed. So were all the road side truck stops and rest areas as all truck traffic is shut down until midnight tonight to accommodate the holiday traffic. Traveling through the Dolomite Mountains which make up the border between Italy and Austria reminded me a lot of our Rocky Mountains a lot of granite and limestone.
Once inside Austria it is a lot like the interior of BC a lot of logging some farm land lots of ravines, mountains and rivers. Steep roofs on all the houses for the snow and most farm homes have the barns attached. The odor must be wonderful!
Stopped in a little town called Kinderburg and had a rest at a little cafe called "Fritz" the owner's first name is Fritz, his last name is Fritz, his dad was Fritz and his son is Fritz. I am thinking George Foreman took a lesson from this guy in naming his kids :) (for those of you that don't know all of George Foremans sons are named George).
Got into Austria checked in and went directly to dinner. What a place, it was the original concert hall built for Johann Strauss. A great dinner then we were ushered into the next room where an orchestra played Strauss, Mozart and Chopin. There was a soprano and tenor singers as well as a ballet couple to do waltz's and some ethnic dancing as well.
It was a great evening quite enjoyable (It weren't no Asleep at the wheel or The Polka Kings but it was pretty damn good ) :)
Off to Shumberg Gardens, City tour and a tour of the Hapsburg Crypts tomorrow.
Gute Nacht
D&D
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Averaderci Italia Achtung Austria
Up and at em early this morning had a bit of rain as the picture will show but it wasnt much and didnt last long.
Off to the island of Murano which has been the glass center of the world for about 500 years. Went to a glass blowing demonstration, the gentleman doing the demonstration has worked there since 1953 and is now 70 years old. Its enjoyable watching a craftsman at work!
Afterwards we of course were shuttled off to their show room, some great art work the old renasaince style of glass work didn't appeal to us but we did manage to find some pieces that are going to look great in the new house!
From there it was back to St. Marks Square had a walk around looking in the shops, found a couple of souveniers and some jewelery Debbie couldnt live without. Went and had a couple of drinks in the hotel Danieli the lobby is like the inside of a palace.
On the way back to the Island of Murano past this little dinghy (at one time the largest yacht in the world), and we were told it is owned by Abromovich, you know the guy that owns the Chelsea football club, Evraz steel, etc.
Hit the island of Burano and all I can think of is a guy could make a fortune if you could sell these guys a plumb line that would work! The ones they keep using seem to be defective. All the buildings in Venice are built on piles that have been driven down into the subsoil but the water causes the ground to shift resulting in more leaning buildings here than you have seen anywhere.
Burano is known for lace making but also their brightly painted buildings. The colors are like a badge of honor with families keeping the same family colors for generations.
While on the island went to a family restaraunt for a late lunch. More like what we called back home dinner, we sat for over 2 hours eating a 5 course meal of seafood items like shrimp, calamari and of course wine and liquors. The family does all the cooking and waiting and of course they were very friendly and a great time was had by all. Its been 6 hours since dinner and I am still full!
This is it for Italy its been a great time and cant wait to return. Tomorrow its off to Vienna, Austria and a long day on the bus but it should be scenic.
Buona Notta (good night)
D&D
Off to the island of Murano which has been the glass center of the world for about 500 years. Went to a glass blowing demonstration, the gentleman doing the demonstration has worked there since 1953 and is now 70 years old. Its enjoyable watching a craftsman at work!
Afterwards we of course were shuttled off to their show room, some great art work the old renasaince style of glass work didn't appeal to us but we did manage to find some pieces that are going to look great in the new house!
From there it was back to St. Marks Square had a walk around looking in the shops, found a couple of souveniers and some jewelery Debbie couldnt live without. Went and had a couple of drinks in the hotel Danieli the lobby is like the inside of a palace.
On the way back to the Island of Murano past this little dinghy (at one time the largest yacht in the world), and we were told it is owned by Abromovich, you know the guy that owns the Chelsea football club, Evraz steel, etc.
Hit the island of Burano and all I can think of is a guy could make a fortune if you could sell these guys a plumb line that would work! The ones they keep using seem to be defective. All the buildings in Venice are built on piles that have been driven down into the subsoil but the water causes the ground to shift resulting in more leaning buildings here than you have seen anywhere.
Burano is known for lace making but also their brightly painted buildings. The colors are like a badge of honor with families keeping the same family colors for generations.
While on the island went to a family restaraunt for a late lunch. More like what we called back home dinner, we sat for over 2 hours eating a 5 course meal of seafood items like shrimp, calamari and of course wine and liquors. The family does all the cooking and waiting and of course they were very friendly and a great time was had by all. Its been 6 hours since dinner and I am still full!
This is it for Italy its been a great time and cant wait to return. Tomorrow its off to Vienna, Austria and a long day on the bus but it should be scenic.
Buona Notta (good night)
D&D
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Is Venice Sinking or is just the water getting higher?
Hello all,
It was again a long day on the bus from Rome to Venice. Up through Florence and Bologna then over the central ridge of mountains that run North to South through the entire country and on to Venice.
We couldn't take the bus over to our hotel as all ferries and public transportation are out on a strike. So all luggage had to be transferred to a boat over to our hotel on Lido Island. We took a water taxi to St. Marks square where we had a drink and listened to a band play for about an hour. Then it was off on a gondola ride with a musician who sang and played the accordian during the trip. Here are a bunch of the pictures that Deb took today. You can see she is fond of seeing clothes out on the line drying :)
After that we took a boat shuttle over to Lido Island where the annual film festival is held. On to supper and a relaxing evening just walking around the island.
Tomorrow we go to the islands of Murano (Glass blowing) and Burano (lace). Then a free evening before we head to Austria.
Ciao!
D&D
Smile more!!!
It was again a long day on the bus from Rome to Venice. Up through Florence and Bologna then over the central ridge of mountains that run North to South through the entire country and on to Venice.
We couldn't take the bus over to our hotel as all ferries and public transportation are out on a strike. So all luggage had to be transferred to a boat over to our hotel on Lido Island. We took a water taxi to St. Marks square where we had a drink and listened to a band play for about an hour. Then it was off on a gondola ride with a musician who sang and played the accordian during the trip. Here are a bunch of the pictures that Deb took today. You can see she is fond of seeing clothes out on the line drying :)
After that we took a boat shuttle over to Lido Island where the annual film festival is held. On to supper and a relaxing evening just walking around the island.
Tomorrow we go to the islands of Murano (Glass blowing) and Burano (lace). Then a free evening before we head to Austria.
Ciao!
D&D
Monday, May 30, 2011
Arrivederci Roma!
Well another great day on the tour, up early and toured the Vatican in the morning. First stop was the Sistine Chapel, with all the paintings and sculptures that are at the Vatican the tour guide told us that if you were to spend just 2 minutes looking at each piece it would take 4 years to look at everything here.
In the chapel (which is where the pope and the cardinals worship) when the crowd gets noisy a recording of the pope comes on and goes Shhhhhh! And the guards go "Silence!" I was waiting for Jeff Dunham's terrorist go "I KILL YOU" :)
From there over to St. Peters Basillica, the intricate tile and stone work, and of course the marble statues. Debbie mailed 13 postcards from the Vatican post office so look forward to those. After a short break we went off to the coliseum and tour of the cities roman ruins. Hard to imagine there are still structures after 2500 years. They were the inventors of concrete and of the archway. The coliseum was built in just 4 years and could hold 70,000 people.
Met about 5 for dinner and went to a great little restaurant. The waiter and staff put on quite the show for us kissing all the ladies, they had a guitarist and flautist that entertained us all night.
One great thing is one of the couples Gregg and Mary booked to go on this trip 5 years ago as of yesterday but had to cancel due to Mary developing cancer. Yesterday was 5 years cancer free for her and it was a moving moment for her as the guys sang to her and her husband gave her flowers.
From there it was back on the bus for an evening tour of the city. Our bus driver Mario (we call him Super Mario) had disco music going when we got on and would flash the interior lights to the beat of the music. The ladies all loved it and I didn't have the heart to tell him I didn't like disco the FIRST time it came out. :)
Off to Venice this morning. Deb and I are looking forward to returning there, should be interesting because the public water taxi's are on strike! Thank goodness we're on a tour as they are arranging private transportation for us.
Talk to y'all later
D&D
In the chapel (which is where the pope and the cardinals worship) when the crowd gets noisy a recording of the pope comes on and goes Shhhhhh! And the guards go "Silence!" I was waiting for Jeff Dunham's terrorist go "I KILL YOU" :)
From there over to St. Peters Basillica, the intricate tile and stone work, and of course the marble statues. Debbie mailed 13 postcards from the Vatican post office so look forward to those. After a short break we went off to the coliseum and tour of the cities roman ruins. Hard to imagine there are still structures after 2500 years. They were the inventors of concrete and of the archway. The coliseum was built in just 4 years and could hold 70,000 people.
Met about 5 for dinner and went to a great little restaurant. The waiter and staff put on quite the show for us kissing all the ladies, they had a guitarist and flautist that entertained us all night.
One great thing is one of the couples Gregg and Mary booked to go on this trip 5 years ago as of yesterday but had to cancel due to Mary developing cancer. Yesterday was 5 years cancer free for her and it was a moving moment for her as the guys sang to her and her husband gave her flowers.
From there it was back on the bus for an evening tour of the city. Our bus driver Mario (we call him Super Mario) had disco music going when we got on and would flash the interior lights to the beat of the music. The ladies all loved it and I didn't have the heart to tell him I didn't like disco the FIRST time it came out. :)
Off to Venice this morning. Deb and I are looking forward to returning there, should be interesting because the public water taxi's are on strike! Thank goodness we're on a tour as they are arranging private transportation for us.
Talk to y'all later
D&D
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Left Sorrento this morning and had to use small vans as the roads are too narrow and winding for the regulary bus for the trip down the Amalfi coast to Posatani.
When we got there the streets are too small for the mini vans so a hiking we shall go. Great shops and restaurants with fabulous views.
From there we drove back to meet our regular bus and then on to Rome. Along the way stopped at a travel center and we were mobbed by fans for the Palermo soccer team that was on their way to watch the final against Inter Milano tonight. Could not even move in there when they showed up. Of course Debbie wanted to know if we could get tickets and go to the game tonight, I dont think so.
Walking tour of Rome when we got here Karen and I opted out knowing that we will have some massive amount of working to do tomorrow. Met up with the group at 7 and had dinner with Peter & Debbie then walked around the square enjoying the sites.
Of to the Vatican tomorrow morning to see St. Peters Catherdral and the Sistine Chapel.
Talk to you later
D&D
When we got there the streets are too small for the mini vans so a hiking we shall go. Great shops and restaurants with fabulous views.
From there we drove back to meet our regular bus and then on to Rome. Along the way stopped at a travel center and we were mobbed by fans for the Palermo soccer team that was on their way to watch the final against Inter Milano tonight. Could not even move in there when they showed up. Of course Debbie wanted to know if we could get tickets and go to the game tonight, I dont think so.
Walking tour of Rome when we got here Karen and I opted out knowing that we will have some massive amount of working to do tomorrow. Met up with the group at 7 and had dinner with Peter & Debbie then walked around the square enjoying the sites.
Of to the Vatican tomorrow morning to see St. Peters Catherdral and the Sistine Chapel.
Talk to you later
D&D
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Anicient Roman Bungee Jumping
Very relaxing day today (well except for the shuttle rides christalmighty they use the vehicles as weapons here)
Took the shuttle bus down to the docks and caught the ferry over to Capri about a 20 minute ride. Then on a boat for a ride around the island hopefully we can get a couple of pictures up. Very steep and rocky homes built on the ledges. They have a funicular to get you to the top of the village.
This island has been a resort dating back to the times of Tiberius the Roman emperor over 2000 years ago. When his enemies tried to plot against him in Rome his nephew gave him all the names of the conspirators. Tiberius invited all of them to a vacation on Capri and took them to the top of the cliffs. There he invented bungee jumpee, except it was only one way as he shoved them all off of the cliffs.
Had lunch and shopping at all the cheap stores like Prada, Gucci, Buccaleta you know the Wal Marts of the mediteranian.
Spent a relaxing day got back to a nice dinner on the patio here at the hotel overlooking the bay of Napoli. Great way to end the day.
Driving the Malfi coast tomorrow and then on to Rome.
Ciao,
D&D
Took the shuttle bus down to the docks and caught the ferry over to Capri about a 20 minute ride. Then on a boat for a ride around the island hopefully we can get a couple of pictures up. Very steep and rocky homes built on the ledges. They have a funicular to get you to the top of the village.
This island has been a resort dating back to the times of Tiberius the Roman emperor over 2000 years ago. When his enemies tried to plot against him in Rome his nephew gave him all the names of the conspirators. Tiberius invited all of them to a vacation on Capri and took them to the top of the cliffs. There he invented bungee jumpee, except it was only one way as he shoved them all off of the cliffs.
Had lunch and shopping at all the cheap stores like Prada, Gucci, Buccaleta you know the Wal Marts of the mediteranian.
Spent a relaxing day got back to a nice dinner on the patio here at the hotel overlooking the bay of Napoli. Great way to end the day.
Driving the Malfi coast tomorrow and then on to Rome.
Ciao,
D&D
Friday, May 27, 2011
Can't keep the boy off the farm
Bon Giorno,
Headed out of Assisi first thing in the morning and began our trip to Sorrento. Going further south we began to leave Umbria and Tuscany. The larger farms gave way to smaller plots of land and mostly orchards. However as we neared Rome we found the urban decay had spread to the countryside with a lot of trash in certain locals and veirtually no upkeep to the homes. Naples was even worse. It wasn't everywhere but it was a shame to see that.
Stopped in a small town south of Rome called Cassino. During the second world war a 4 month long battle was waged here where the Germans had dug in their defenses. Look up the Battle of Monte Cassino on the internet. Visited a cemetery where soldiers of the commonwealth are buried. Soldiers from Canada, Austraila, New Zealand, Great Britain, South Africa and India are laid to rest there. It is beautifully maintained Mom your Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund's are doing great work here. I also never realized that personnel from South Africa and India served during the war.
From there it was on to Pompeii. I had read about it as a kid but never dreamed that I would be walking among the ruins. You can see the wheel ruts in the stones of the streets from the wagons, the shops, houses bakeries and brothels. I hope Sean can post the picture i sent of the columns with the beams on top of stone. Take a look at how they use an invertedd system to lock in the beams using short peices instead of having to try and hoist long beams up.
Another ingenious technique was used by the excavators on site. When they were digging through the ash in the late 1800's (over 18' had fallen and it became as hard as rock) as they came upon a hollow sounding level they would cease digging. What they were encountering were places where people had died on site and the body had decayed but the skeletons were still there intact. They would then drill a hole into the hollow and fill it with plaster and let it harden. Then they would dig out a full plaster mould of the body. The two most famous moulds are one of a dog that was still chained to its post another of a pregnant lady with her arms wrapped around her tummy.
From there it was on to Sorrento. A lot of Rome and Europe come down this beautifull part of the coast. Beaches are a little rocky but the cliffs and scenery are breathtaking. Water is very clear. Our hotel is perched up on one of the cliffs and has stunning views.
For dinner we went to a farm that has buildings dating back to the mid 17th century. They make their own mozzarella and ricotta cheese (I STILL think thats a fancy name for cottage cheese), but on 4 acres they grew olives, lemons, cherries and oranges. Here are some pictures of the cows and the cheese making.
I have to say we had more fun at that farm than any 5 star restaraunt we have been to on this trip!
Off to the Isle of Capri this morning, will chat later.
Ciao,
D&D
Headed out of Assisi first thing in the morning and began our trip to Sorrento. Going further south we began to leave Umbria and Tuscany. The larger farms gave way to smaller plots of land and mostly orchards. However as we neared Rome we found the urban decay had spread to the countryside with a lot of trash in certain locals and veirtually no upkeep to the homes. Naples was even worse. It wasn't everywhere but it was a shame to see that.
Stopped in a small town south of Rome called Cassino. During the second world war a 4 month long battle was waged here where the Germans had dug in their defenses. Look up the Battle of Monte Cassino on the internet. Visited a cemetery where soldiers of the commonwealth are buried. Soldiers from Canada, Austraila, New Zealand, Great Britain, South Africa and India are laid to rest there. It is beautifully maintained Mom your Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund's are doing great work here. I also never realized that personnel from South Africa and India served during the war.
From there it was on to Pompeii. I had read about it as a kid but never dreamed that I would be walking among the ruins. You can see the wheel ruts in the stones of the streets from the wagons, the shops, houses bakeries and brothels. I hope Sean can post the picture i sent of the columns with the beams on top of stone. Take a look at how they use an invertedd system to lock in the beams using short peices instead of having to try and hoist long beams up.
Another ingenious technique was used by the excavators on site. When they were digging through the ash in the late 1800's (over 18' had fallen and it became as hard as rock) as they came upon a hollow sounding level they would cease digging. What they were encountering were places where people had died on site and the body had decayed but the skeletons were still there intact. They would then drill a hole into the hollow and fill it with plaster and let it harden. Then they would dig out a full plaster mould of the body. The two most famous moulds are one of a dog that was still chained to its post another of a pregnant lady with her arms wrapped around her tummy.
From there it was on to Sorrento. A lot of Rome and Europe come down this beautifull part of the coast. Beaches are a little rocky but the cliffs and scenery are breathtaking. Water is very clear. Our hotel is perched up on one of the cliffs and has stunning views.
For dinner we went to a farm that has buildings dating back to the mid 17th century. They make their own mozzarella and ricotta cheese (I STILL think thats a fancy name for cottage cheese), but on 4 acres they grew olives, lemons, cherries and oranges. Here are some pictures of the cows and the cheese making.
I have to say we had more fun at that farm than any 5 star restaraunt we have been to on this trip!
Off to the Isle of Capri this morning, will chat later.
Ciao,
D&D
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Au Revoir France, Bon Giorno Italia
Sorry couldn't get on the blog the yesterday so here we go with a recap.
Left Cannes on Wednesday morning and stopped in Monaco for the morning. The principality is very crowded with housing and apparently has some of the most expensive housing per square foot in the world. Monaco is its own country called a principality ruled by Prince Albert. His mother was the actress Grace Kelly who was killed in a car accident driving her daughter Caroline to school one day. Grace suffered a stroke and drove off one of the cliffs. The Monaco Grand Prix runs there this weekend so the road track was already blocked off and the viewing stands erected. Views are spectacular and yachts are anchored in the harbor a week ahead of time for the guests to watch the race from the back of their yachts.
From there it was not far to the Italian border and drove to Pisa. It is the first time in 25 years that there is not any scaffolding around the tower. Interesting history the tower is built on swampy type land and it started leaning immediately upon construction. No problemo, the opposite side it is leaning the next floor we put larger bricks on the high side to counter balance. Starts leaning the other way, no problemo we make the columns longer on the opposite side. If you look carefully the building isnt straight at but like a banana!
From there we ended up in the neatest town called Montecatini. Checked into a hotel that was built as a hotel 158 years ago called the Grand Hotel and La Pas Spa. What a gorgeous place here is a link to the hotel if you want to look at it
Went for dinner and then hung around the town square until almost 11 watching people just visiting and talking. It was so great I threatened to sabotage the bus so we wouldn't have to leave for a day!
This morning left out early and went to Florence. Walked the squares and went to the Acadamie to see the works of Michelangelo including his statue of David. I never imagined it was 15 feet tall the detail in the marble structure showing veins and muscles it is pretty stunning. What was very interesting were his six unfinished pieces. He worked on all the pieces simultaneously and lost funding half way through so they were never finished and they are called his unfinished slaves as they are only partially out of the marble.
From there we went through the Tuscan country side on to Umbria and Assisi. The medieval village is on top of the hill with the basilica where St. Francis is enshrined. Roman ruins dating back to 200 AD. All the rock (Limestone) was quarried on site and built all the roads and buildings in the town.
Off tomorrow to Vesuvius and Sorrento.
By the way here is a picture of Peter enjoying the sights. :)
Buona Notta
D & D
Just some random photos they have all sent me.
Here is their guide, Brent, he has been doing this for 25 years.
Here is Peter. He must of had something in his eyes, as he had to keep them closed.
Dale pondering a pretty big problem on the way to Pompeii.
Left Cannes on Wednesday morning and stopped in Monaco for the morning. The principality is very crowded with housing and apparently has some of the most expensive housing per square foot in the world. Monaco is its own country called a principality ruled by Prince Albert. His mother was the actress Grace Kelly who was killed in a car accident driving her daughter Caroline to school one day. Grace suffered a stroke and drove off one of the cliffs. The Monaco Grand Prix runs there this weekend so the road track was already blocked off and the viewing stands erected. Views are spectacular and yachts are anchored in the harbor a week ahead of time for the guests to watch the race from the back of their yachts.
From there it was not far to the Italian border and drove to Pisa. It is the first time in 25 years that there is not any scaffolding around the tower. Interesting history the tower is built on swampy type land and it started leaning immediately upon construction. No problemo, the opposite side it is leaning the next floor we put larger bricks on the high side to counter balance. Starts leaning the other way, no problemo we make the columns longer on the opposite side. If you look carefully the building isnt straight at but like a banana!
From there we ended up in the neatest town called Montecatini. Checked into a hotel that was built as a hotel 158 years ago called the Grand Hotel and La Pas Spa. What a gorgeous place here is a link to the hotel if you want to look at it
Went for dinner and then hung around the town square until almost 11 watching people just visiting and talking. It was so great I threatened to sabotage the bus so we wouldn't have to leave for a day!
This morning left out early and went to Florence. Walked the squares and went to the Acadamie to see the works of Michelangelo including his statue of David. I never imagined it was 15 feet tall the detail in the marble structure showing veins and muscles it is pretty stunning. What was very interesting were his six unfinished pieces. He worked on all the pieces simultaneously and lost funding half way through so they were never finished and they are called his unfinished slaves as they are only partially out of the marble.
From there we went through the Tuscan country side on to Umbria and Assisi. The medieval village is on top of the hill with the basilica where St. Francis is enshrined. Roman ruins dating back to 200 AD. All the rock (Limestone) was quarried on site and built all the roads and buildings in the town.
By the way here is a picture of Peter enjoying the sights. :)
Buona Notta
D & D
Just some random photos they have all sent me.
Here is their guide, Brent, he has been doing this for 25 years.
Dale pondering a pretty big problem on the way to Pompeii.
Peter, should you get some new glasses?
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Nice is pretty damn nice!
Well we are officially halfway through our tour. I have to say that we are having a great time, just when you think you're going to be bored to tears or not enjoy yourself they throw something else at you. Hasn't been a day that we haven't gone "Wow!"
The tour director is a great guy lots of history and local knowledge. Out of 40 travellers there are 3 Canadians, (Peter Karen and I), 4 Americans, and the balance are from Australia and New Zealand and they are quite a lively lot. We have been having a lot of fun with them.
Today after visiting the medieval village of St. Paul de Vence built in the 8th century, (which is on a hilltop still surrounded by the ramparts), narrow streets neat shops and stunning views. At the end of the walk we were at a cafe having a morning coffee and there was a Bocci Ball court there. Peter, Debbie and the tour director (Brent) took on the Aussies and beat them all!
From there we toured Nice. Holy cow miles of beaches and apartments. Yachts the size of a BC Ferry in Vancouver. Toured the three Cornishes which are twisty windy roads going along the coast and ended up in a parfumery. I thought it smelled like a New Orleans brothel but most of the ladies bought something. It was interesting seeing how it was made. It takes 2 tons of rose petals to make 1 kg of perfume essence oil.
From there it was on to a hilltop restaurant for lunch. Again just stunning views. Then it was back to Cannes. Peter, Karen, Deb and I went down to the beach and dipped our toes in the Mediterrainian Sea. Peter actually swam but the water was too damn cold for the rest of us. (Truth be told Peter only swam about 4 strokes and got out but he did swim).
Went for drinks afterwards and just got back into the room at about 9. Lots of beautiful women some topless on the beach. Our cab driver taking us back to the hotel even got hit on by a transvestite. I heard this mans voice and turned around and here was the face of a woman talking to the cabbie. The driver turns to me and says"youre not in a little town any more eh?"
Tomorrow we stop at Monaco, Pisa and finish up at Montecatini.
Adieu France Damani Italia
D & D
Peter here,
I think that Dale just has a stunt double that goes out and does all of these pics. Everytime I look I just see him like this. :)
The tour director is a great guy lots of history and local knowledge. Out of 40 travellers there are 3 Canadians, (Peter Karen and I), 4 Americans, and the balance are from Australia and New Zealand and they are quite a lively lot. We have been having a lot of fun with them.
Today after visiting the medieval village of St. Paul de Vence built in the 8th century, (which is on a hilltop still surrounded by the ramparts), narrow streets neat shops and stunning views. At the end of the walk we were at a cafe having a morning coffee and there was a Bocci Ball court there. Peter, Debbie and the tour director (Brent) took on the Aussies and beat them all!
From there we toured Nice. Holy cow miles of beaches and apartments. Yachts the size of a BC Ferry in Vancouver. Toured the three Cornishes which are twisty windy roads going along the coast and ended up in a parfumery. I thought it smelled like a New Orleans brothel but most of the ladies bought something. It was interesting seeing how it was made. It takes 2 tons of rose petals to make 1 kg of perfume essence oil.
From there it was on to a hilltop restaurant for lunch. Again just stunning views. Then it was back to Cannes. Peter, Karen, Deb and I went down to the beach and dipped our toes in the Mediterrainian Sea. Peter actually swam but the water was too damn cold for the rest of us. (Truth be told Peter only swam about 4 strokes and got out but he did swim).
Went for drinks afterwards and just got back into the room at about 9. Lots of beautiful women some topless on the beach. Our cab driver taking us back to the hotel even got hit on by a transvestite. I heard this mans voice and turned around and here was the face of a woman talking to the cabbie. The driver turns to me and says"youre not in a little town any more eh?"
Tomorrow we stop at Monaco, Pisa and finish up at Montecatini.
Adieu France Damani Italia
D & D
Peter here,
I think that Dale just has a stunt double that goes out and does all of these pics. Everytime I look I just see him like this. :)
Monday, May 23, 2011
Jose Cannes You Si?
Drove up from Barcelona to Cannes today. Interesting drive quite diverse, wheat fields, olive trees, mountains and the mediterainian sea. 600+ kms of driving with the heat blowing on our feet and the AC blowing in our face. Hopefully they will fix it tonight.
Got in at 5 and immediately went out to dinner. Drove down along the shore where all the action is for the Cannes film festival which just ended last night. They still had the red carpet rolled out.
A Bientot,
D & D
Got in at 5 and immediately went out to dinner. Drove down along the shore where all the action is for the Cannes film festival which just ended last night. They still had the red carpet rolled out.
Hopefully Sean can post this video I took of all the shops along the street, Gucci, Dolce and Banana, Fendi, Dior.... and Fred! See if you can pick out the shop named Fred :)Larger Video Here.
Its been a long day tomorrow we drive in the morning to some mountain top and then back right after lunch to spend the afternoon at the beach.
A Bientot,
D & D
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Bye Bye Barcelona
Sorry was having internet difficulties so no posting yesterday. Arrived in Barcelona about 4 in the afternoon yesterday. Driving across Spain from Madrid was a lot like crossing Wyoming/Utah/Nevada. Very arid, not a lot of populace crops mostly irrigated for grains no cattle. Saw some dairy farms, then vineyards and orchards once we got in closer to Madrid.
Madrid is a very vibrant city. Statues by Lichtenstien, the architecture by Gaudi is something you have to see to believe. Google Gaudi architecture and look at his work its pretty visionary. This area is in the Castillian region which has just outlawed bullfighting in January. Dont know if I would be crazy about attending that anyway. I would like to see the matador take on the bull without all the lances now THAT would be fun :)
Off for dinner early at a restaraunt much like our Fogo de Chao in Houston way too much food then off to see the fountains and light show after dark.
This morning we jumped on the bus and went to Monserrat a cathedral on top of the Serrated mountains an hour outside of Barcelona views were great the best thing was a festival going on at the square with all different young people dressed in Castillian costume and performing their dances.
Speaking of dancing tonight we were at a Flamenco dance concert Deb and I were dead center front row. The show was very exciting and fun to watch but a word of advise to anyone attending the show.
DO NOT SIT IN THE FRONT ROW!! I had more sweat thrown on me and bitched slapped by one of the dancers dresses than I care to remember. Oh well, it was a great show :) Nasty Nasty!!!
Off to Cannes tomorrow can't wait to spend a bit of time at the beach in the mediteranian. The Cannes film festival ends tonight so maybe we will get to see some starlets topless sun bathing with the locals!
Adios Espana
D & D
Dale hard at work here today we see :) Mom are you txting she-she or playing words with friends? :)
Madrid is a port city that was the seat of power when Columbus wanted to get funding for his voyage to America. SEVEN years this guy pestered the court until they gave him money. Part of the reason for the delay was Spain kind of had their hands full chasing the Moors out of the country but once that happened at Granada they gave Columbus some ships and funding. Old Chris was more persistent than a used car salesman. (this is the statue of Columbus)
Off for dinner early at a restaraunt much like our Fogo de Chao in Houston way too much food then off to see the fountains and light show after dark.
This morning we jumped on the bus and went to Monserrat a cathedral on top of the Serrated mountains an hour outside of Barcelona views were great the best thing was a festival going on at the square with all different young people dressed in Castillian costume and performing their dances.
Speaking of dancing tonight we were at a Flamenco dance concert Deb and I were dead center front row. The show was very exciting and fun to watch but a word of advise to anyone attending the show.
DO NOT SIT IN THE FRONT ROW!! I had more sweat thrown on me and bitched slapped by one of the dancers dresses than I care to remember. Oh well, it was a great show :) Nasty Nasty!!!
Off to Cannes tomorrow can't wait to spend a bit of time at the beach in the mediteranian. The Cannes film festival ends tonight so maybe we will get to see some starlets topless sun bathing with the locals!
Adios Espana
D & D
Dale hard at work here today we see :) Mom are you txting she-she or playing words with friends? :)
Friday, May 20, 2011
Holy Toledo!
Good Evening!
Took a day trip over to Toledo today which was about 50 miles away. I can see why the Basque people from this northern region of Spain settled in Wyoming, Nevada and Northern California. The terrain looks very similar to Wyoming and Nevada.
City of Toledo is still the same buildings that were built in the 1100 and 1200's. Hard to imagine the Moors and Christians trying to scale the walls of the fortress it just boggles the mind. A lot of the shops have gold and silver dishes and jewelery a lot of handcrafted items. Suits of armor that reflect either the moorish or christian styles.
I don't know if anyone has seen it on the news but there are huge demonstrations going on in Madrid right now. We were told to go to the main part of town for drinks and tapas tonight and walked straight into the middle of the main demonstration! So here we were with 50,000 people not a great scene!
Anyway Debbie thought it was exciting but all Peter and I could think of were the terrorists that could just walk into the crowd let loose.
Speaking of Peter he went to get a haircut this afternoon and asked for a 1/4 inch off. Here is the result :) Just call him Buzz for the next couple of weeks.
Off to Barcelona in the morning for the next two days we will talk to you tomorrow.
Buenos Noches
D & D
Took a day trip over to Toledo today which was about 50 miles away. I can see why the Basque people from this northern region of Spain settled in Wyoming, Nevada and Northern California. The terrain looks very similar to Wyoming and Nevada.
City of Toledo is still the same buildings that were built in the 1100 and 1200's. Hard to imagine the Moors and Christians trying to scale the walls of the fortress it just boggles the mind. A lot of the shops have gold and silver dishes and jewelery a lot of handcrafted items. Suits of armor that reflect either the moorish or christian styles.
I don't know if anyone has seen it on the news but there are huge demonstrations going on in Madrid right now. We were told to go to the main part of town for drinks and tapas tonight and walked straight into the middle of the main demonstration! So here we were with 50,000 people not a great scene!
Anyway Debbie thought it was exciting but all Peter and I could think of were the terrorists that could just walk into the crowd let loose.
Speaking of Peter he went to get a haircut this afternoon and asked for a 1/4 inch off. Here is the result :) Just call him Buzz for the next couple of weeks.
Off to Barcelona in the morning for the next two days we will talk to you tomorrow.
Buenos Noches
D & D
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