World War II Woman

A Week in Germany

It is difficult to comprehend that this time last week (actually six hours earlier, German time), my daughter and I were on a train bound for Cologne in Germany. We were enjoying a one-week vacation and visit with German friends of more than thirty years, whom we first met when they spent a week at our house on a church exchange. Over the years, my husband and I have enjoyed many visits together both in the United States and in Germany.

Allwit and Wim met us at Frankfurt and whisked us off to Heidelberg, having decided that we should not sleep that first day, but rather see some of the wonderful sights of Germany. While viewing the famous castle at Heidelberg, we learned much of the history of the area, and we shall not forget that the official name of the Holy Roman Empire had four more words on it – of the German Nation. From there we were off to the cathedral at Speyer, built back in 11th century.

The next day we explored the beautiful winding Mosel River with its many Riesling vineyards filling the mountainsides. This was grape-picking time, and we ventured upon a Roman wine festival in Piesport, complete with band, men in togas, food for every taste, and, of course, wine. Ancient relics reveal that the Romans did indeed grow grapes on these very hills. We, too, meandered with the Mosel into various villages and small towns enjoying the delights of this river valley.

We continued our visit with trips to the half- ancient and half-modern city of Luxenbourg, Trier with its 2000-year old Roman wall still standing, and other towns in Saarland. Then off to Koblenz where we would spend the next four days. We could hardly believe we had had so many experiences in such a few days. More was to follow.

We managed to catch the final Rhine daily cruise of the season, leaving from Koblenz and going as far as the Lorelei. Here we were accompanied by Silja, one of our host’s daughters, who was just recently married to husband Christopher. That evening we ate together and had lively discussions about both of our countries.

The next day was a train ride to Cologne where we were escorted by an acquaintance of my daughter. Not only did we visit the magnificent cathedral, but several other churches and a most unusual Roman German museum, quite close to the Cathedral.

One more day left for shopping and to prepare for our trip home. Now, if you think this has nothing to do with World War II, I will have more on my next blog. 

For stories of World War II, go to http://www.peggeorg.com/.

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