I'm caught up on my sleep, the laundry, sorting through the piles of mail, answering emails and feel about ready to take on what's been waiting for me while I've been globe trotting. Of everyone that missed me I think it was hardest on my Zackie. When I came home he didn't even come to greet me at the door as he always does; Gregg went downstairs to get him and as soon as he put him down Zackie dashed back downstairs. Later on in the evening he once again ventured upstairs and when I called him he then dashed to me and wouldn't leave my side even to go to the bathroom. He's now like my shadow. Ahhh, creature comforts -- gotta love it.
I was thinking this morning about all that I learned on my trip; the culture, history, and resilience of the German people. I can sense that neat, orderly German culture that Dad tried to instill in me from little on -- it was what he learned from his parents and they from theirs, etc. My generation is the first of our clan that doesn't speak German; it would be a shame to lose any of the other qualities of our heritage. How then to preserve them? The family reunion is one way. Perhaps I need to get more in touch with my inner German and investigate what makes us tick.
The palace at Steinhofel (where I spent my 50th birthday, see picture) keeps intriguing me -- is it the gorgeous surroundings, quaint village, and proximity to the homeland of my ancestors that is so alluring? I don't think it was the summer palace for the King and Queen but probably for one of his cabinet members -- I have emailed the Schloss and am hoping that they'll be able to fill in the missing pieces to the puzzle. I believe that it was God's plan, or fate, which arranged for me to be there on that special day. Why? Was this a trailer to the next chapter in my life story?
I foresee the next chapters in my life being filled with challenges, rewards, and memories. With God's help I think it'll be quite the ride.
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