Fronleichnam

Perhaps those of you who speak German can translate "Fronleichnam", but for those of you who can't, it means "Feast of Corpus Christi" (thanks Stefan, for your German translation skills). All I know is that was the name of the holiday we had in Germany yesterday. And I am all for holidays...particularly when the next public holiday in Germany is not until October 3rd. So, we're headed for a long dry spell on the public holiday front.

It was a relaxing day, spent enjoying a beautiful day in Düsseldorf. I will give the Germans this...they know how to enjoy their city! As Buddy and I rode the tram to have lunch in Old Town, the tram crossed over the Rhine River, and all along the sides of the river, people were sunbathing, playing games, picnicking, riding bikes and rollerblading, and walking their dogs. It was truly a glorious sight!

The weather was perfect for a holiday, being about 89 degrees F...remember, AC is not available in most homes and in restaurants. Still, was quite tolerable if you can believe that. Guess it is the lack of humidity. Anyway, it was a sunny day and everywhere people were enjoying the day off. All the restaurants had put out their alfresco seating, and the cafes and pubs were brimming with people. Everyone was in shorts or warm weather attire, just relaxing and enjoying the day. Many of the trees in the old town district had bloomed and their blooms were falling from their limbs as a slight breeze wafted through Altstadt (old town). One felt like it was either lightly snowing or that one was walking through a ticker tape parade....

After a relaxing German meal in an outside cafe, we walked through old town a bit more before heading home to continue "house settling in" activities. (i.e. picture hanging, etc.). Will send a photo as soon as the apartment is in order.

Today, off to Heidelberg for our first German day-trip. Heidelberg is the home of the oldest university in Germany, but has many other sights to entice the traveler, including the famed Heidelberg castle. Buddy and I will also be joining a group of Baylor alums for "Diadeloso in Germany" (see link on the right hand side for details re: The Day of the Bear in Germany) at the Heidelberg Zoo on Saturday. Event will include Dr. Pepper, as only BU alums (and Britten Echols) can appreciate. Will post again upon the return...probably in a couple of days....

For the US contingency, Happy Memorial Day next Monday!!

Now, gotta pack to catch that train to Heidelberg…