Yesterday we visited Rothenburg, Germany, which is one of the best preserved medieval cities in the region, also known for it's year round Christmas spirit. Sure, around the holidays, the local store owners surely kick up the volume on the Christmasy atmosphere, but even in October, it was alive with the holiday spirit.
When we first got there we stopped for lunch at a little restaurant and enjoyed some soup, bread, and salad. Then it was time to hit up the Christmas fantasy world that is Rothenburg! It was like living a dream. John knows how much I LOVE Christmas, so he was very eager to share this special place with me. He had been there as a child during an extended summer vacation when his family moved from Australia to Mexico. I can see why he had such fond memories. In one word: A.maz.ing!
I had a ball visiting all the little shops which were wall to wall explosions of ornaments, Nutcrackers, hand carved wooden nativity sets, decorations, candies, toys and much more. I seriously got a high off the stuff. So fun! Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos inside the stores. I really wanted to share the beautiful holiday tree and toy displays, but I am not a rule breaker. I think John snapped a few shots with his camera phone, but I haven't seen them yet.
We walked around all afternoon in the chilly weather peeking inside all the different shops. We found a nice little park with some great views where we played around for a little bit, snapping lots of pic, then we stopped at a little cafe for some hot chocolate to warm us up. We also bought these amazing little funnel cake balls dipped in chocolate. I wish I took a picture, but we ate them too fast! I guess that gives us an excuse to go back!
When we were almost ready to head back, we passed a little pub and John saw through the window that the men inside were watching soccer. Being the wonderful wife that I am (I told John I was dressing up as a nice wife for Halloween), I said yeah, let's go in. This place was decked out for Halloween! Orange and black balloons, ceramic pumpkin candle holders on the tables, and black cats and bats hanging from the ceiling. As soon as we entered, we heard shouts of Happy Halloween and one man actually began doing the dance motions with is hands from Thriller. Too funny! As first, I kind of thought they were making fun of us for being American, but then my eyes took in all the decorations and realize it was all them. They really do like Halloween! We sat for awhile watching the soccer game and then decided to head back towards Home.
Our friend Andy, who lives in Nürnberg invited us over for a Halloween dinner, so we hung out at his house until about 11:30 and then I drove home. Yup, ME. I drove for the third time since moving here three months ago! Oh, and did I mention that another one of his guests made Brownies......mmmmm. It has been too long since I have enjoyed a good 'ol American baked good!
We were also very fascinated by these sightings!
Rothenburg is definitely a place for Team Toppel!
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