30 Aug -- Villa Otrang, Germany

Today we went to Villa Otrang, which is about 20 minutes away. It was fun to walk around...although Charlie kept asking, "Where is the castle?"

Charlie actually sitting still.

...but not for long.

I love Charlie-charge-the-photographer pics.

29 Aug -- Manderscheid Castle, Germany

We went to Manderscheid for a medieval festival. Unfortunately, we did not have our medieval outfits back from the cleaners in time to enjoy half of the admission price.

The view from the castle down on the fair grounds.

Charlie was a reluctant participant in a jousting match. I started as his horse, but after lack of interest on his part I became the jouster and he just enjoyed a good view.

Jane doing some crazy dancing and spinning...and falling.

Dragons were around every corner!

Luckily they were not the fire breathing kind.

Jane spent most of the day eating...

...and eating...

28 Aug -- Rheinfels Castle in St Goar, Germany

Today we drove about an hour and a half to the east of Spangdahlem to the town of St Goar and to the Rheinfels Castle (http://www.st-goar.de/17-0-burg-rheinfels.html. It was huge and also a blast to run around and chase Charlie. The day was beautiful--72' and scattered clouds. Enjoy the pics.

The view from the top tower.

Many tunnels. We will bring flashlights to the rest of the castles we visit.

The Rhine river down below.

Jane enjoyed being carried around.

Duck!

Run!

24 Aug -- Unusual naptime location

Charlie had stopped taking naps a few months ago, with the exception of some really early mornings. Today I thought it had gotten rather quiet upstairs, which usually means that he's getting into trouble (usually involving my makeup, deodorant, and/or pens). I tiptoed upstairs to find him in his tunnel fast asleep.

23 Aug -- Irrel Waterfalls

We went to the Irrel Waterfalls today. It was 20 minute drive and a beautiful day. Enjoy the pics.

And you thought covered bridges were only in New England...or at least Dan did.

...ashes, ashes, we all...

We stopped along the trail and had PB&J, chex mix and drinks.

23 Aug -- House: Dining and Living Room

Here is a quick post of our unpacked rooms.

Camera 1...

...camera 2.

Our front door.

22 Aug -- Pics and Video of the House

There's a cherry tree in the front yard and wine grapes growing next to the front door. Dan and I might start our own vineyard!

Here is a quick video of the outside of our house. You will see the inside in a few more days.

****the video isn't uploading currently. we'll try again later****