The Simple Joy of Life’s Adventures

I just got back from a European trip to western Germany and eastern France with my niece. I’m jetlagged, recovering from a cold I caught on the way home, and trying to find my bearings again after two weeks away. But it was all worth it–I had a fantastic time. 

Our visit to Heidelberg, Germany is high on the list. It is a charming medieval city tucked along the Neckar River. A massive castle sits high on a hill, casting an imposing presence on the little town.  

I loved learning about my ancestors and the region ‌they came from. My maternal great-grandfather was from the Alsace region in France, but I had always thought that line was German. I solved the mystery on my travels, learning about how the area flip-flopped between Germany and France over several centuries. Even though it is now part of France, the architecture, food and culture show an undeniable connection to Germany. 

Getting to spend time with my great niece and nephew, who live in Frankfurt, Germany was also a bright spot. I last saw them as a baby and toddler, and now they are pre-teen and teenager. I enjoyed playing games with them, learning about their interests, and hearing them play the violin together. 

Another highlight was our visit to Colmar, France, a small town in the heart of wine country. Dining alfresco with a French/German fusion of schnitzel and cordon bleu was perfection, followed by an enjoyable and educational wine tasting hosted by a winery whose family has been operating it for 14 centuries. 

I loved exploring Strasbourg, France–visiting the Cathedral and the famous astronomical clock, Petite Paris, Musee Historique, and biking through Parc de l'Orangerie.  We also enjoyed shopping, sourcing food for simple meals at our apartment, and eating and drinking delicious food and wine.  

Getting out of my comfort zone was a good thing. I learned to be flexible when train schedules were confusing, the language barriers were frustrating, and European customs felt limiting.

But the biggest highlight, the one thing that leapfrogs all the other wonderful experiences, was spending time with Nickie. We adjusted to each other’s personalities–my more cautious ways to her free-spiritedness. We worked together when we got into a few transportation snafus. She took joy in showing me parts of Europe she had visited before, and we enjoyed exploring new areas together. But mostly, we laughed. We laughed at our freedom, our fun, our foibles, and frustrations. I’m glad we had this experience against the backdrop of a European landscape. Prost Nickie! I’ll never forget it.