30 Days By Train - September 20, 2003

I woke this morning with the heavy feeling that after travelling thousands of miles across the world, all we're doing is drinking and eating. Which explains that heavy feeling. But nonetheless, it brings me great joy because finally a vacation is working out as planned.

Today was no different. Soon after waking we drove off to the delightful town of Schöngeising ¹ and had a beer (or was it two?) while lunching in the shadow of the town church as its bells announced the union of two souls.

Some of us looked like we weren't quite finished drinking from the night before. I'm not going to name any names. You know who you are.

Of course, this someone (named Felix...woopsy! his name slipped out!) is young. And he's a fireman/paramedic. So he's built up a certain tolerance. I'm not so sure I'd like him saving my ass at 2 AM, but there you have it. Ok, ok, that's not altogether fair. Going by my own history I can tell you that when I was 18 I sure as hell was in no position to save anyone's ass. I don't really remember, but probably more than anyone's it was mine that needed saving. Soooo, come to think of it, I admire Felix for choosing a career that he not only believes in but is also passionate about. I wish I had had the will to do the same. And so on that note, I raise a glass to him...cheers, Felix! I hope it's you who saves my ass when it needs saving. At the very least we can have a drink.

Joining us at lunch was Petra, Gina's cousin, with her boyfriend Willy, as well as Wolfgang and his wife. And all the usual suspects.

At the conclusion of this hearty feast it was generally decided that the only civilized thing to do would be to adjourn to Bettina and Bruno's backyard for something to eat and drink. Luckily Bettina and Bruno agreed. More importantly, Bettina is an excellent cook, and Bruno stocks an excellent cellar. Most importantly, she had prepared the most amazing plum cake I have ever had. Accompanied by a warm mug of tea, it was both nourishing and utterly indulging, a wonderful, elusive combination. While it's true that "nourishing" may begin to lose its meaning after three pieces of cake, I assure you I didn't have three pieces. I had four. You would have, too.

I tried to burn off some of what was making my stomach swell by playing with the girls, but quickly grew exhausted, and resigned myself to watching them revel in high energy. I wasn't alone. The sisters had fun watching Eva make a spectacle of herself. Thrice.

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¹For an English version of the same site - and for a chuckle at Google's automatic translation service - click here and check out results like this: "Cordially welcomely at the municipality Schoengeising."