The Astronomical Clock in Prague

The clock first arrived in the 1400's and was

the most accurate clock built during it's time.

We were fortunate enough to see the clock open up as well as the trumpeter that came out and played at the top

This was the coolest thing:

A guy came out at the top of the clock and played his trumpet.

It regal fanfare!

And he waves to the cheering crowd...

Graz- Southern Austria

The trees were hung upside down and lit up at night.

It was really quite beautiful!

 

Die Backeri with an all wooden front

The clock with the 2 dancing figures

The Tangemann's

Mom and I had a really great time in Graz, Austria.  A family friend of ours from Gaylord E Free Church, http://www.gaylordefree.org/, Duke Herzog, arranged for us to meet his sister.  So we did!  Christa & Gunter Tangemann live in Graz, Austria.  They welcomed us into their home and showed us around the city complete with stories of the history of Graz and lovely food conversations as well.  It was a treat to visit them and the highlight of our trip!
This picture was taken at the Sacher Cafe where we had our first sacher torte.  We were told that this was a must when you visit Austria.  It's a wonderful chocolate torte covered in ganache with a hint of orange.

These next few photos are the view from their backyard

 

 

 

Rothenburg- the middle of Germany

The cute little medieval city on the Romantic Road in Germany.

The drive getting to there is beautiful.  Lots of wooded rolling hills, quaint villages and farmlands.

We spent Christmas Eve here eating lunch, wandering around and looking at everything and drinking cappacinos!

We were there when the change of the hour happened and got to see the figures come out with their beer steins and do a little twirl!

 

These next 2 pictures are of the wall that encircles the entire city.  You can walk the top of the wall and it's really cool!

This house might just be the coolest house I've ever seen!