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12/11/2006: "Rhine Castles to Heidelberg"
Well, we spent a great evening and day with Jeanette’s friend from Avaya, Henry and his wife Jennifer. They put us up for the night in their home in Bonn and treated us to a tour of Marksburg Castle (the only one on the Rhine that was never in ruins) and a walk through the lovely town of Linz.
Sunday, we jumped the train for Heidelberg and are spending our last two nights here. It was our second day in a row for a long hike to a castle. Unfortunately, for strategic reasons, they placed these things high on the hillside. Heidelberg’s castle is beautiful with great views of the old town. And the town holds a couple of good memories from when my brother Chris and I visited fresh out of college more than 23 years ago. It is a beautiful college town on the Nekar River with great history, food, beer and sites. It’s very popular with the tourists, even in the winter and for good reason.
I decided from the start of the trip that I would give up on the vegetarian diet and the sobriety. It made it a lot easier to absorb the culture. I don’t think we have had anything but a great dinner and you can’t beat the beer. I am hoping that I put on a few needed pounds.
Tomorrow morning, we jump a train for the Frankfurt main train station that is connected with the airport. We have a 2pm flight home and after 14 days of fast travel and suitcase living, we are ready to get back to our own beds. We also dearly miss our little girl and look forward to smothering her in kisses.
As for my health, I am feeling pretty well. Today was my second day in a row without Ibuprofen to ease the pain in my neck and arm. I still take one at night for sleep, but am optimistic that this is a good sign.
Jeanette looks very cold. I saw Alex Sat. and she seems well but I know she has missed you guys a lot. I'll see you guys tomorrow. So glad you had such a good time! Love Ya! 