...More Castles...

Cochem Castle
This was Howard's favorite castle. We went on a tour of the castle which was wonderful because the tour was in English and we were the only ones on the tour. The lady who gave the tour was very friendly and we learned alot of history of the castle.

This armor was for a man who was over 8 feet tall.

Burg Eltz

This castle was so neat to me because it is still owned by the Eltz family today. Pictures weren't allowed inside so we don't have many of this castle, but it was a favorite.This next castle was featured in the 3rd Indian Jones Movie. This is where Indiana's dad is being held captive.

Castles and McDonalds

So, I don't remember what this castle was...I think its Marksburg. I loved seeing all the different castles, but now going through the pictures, I have forgotten the names of them! I'll have to ask Mike which one this is and let you know. :)

It is beautiful though!!!

The city view from the castleThe view of the toilet from the outside of the castle...no plumbing...just fell into the garden below.After the castle we went to McDonald's for dinner. We were so adventurous...we tried the 'homestyle' fries instead of the regular McDonald fries. McDonald's trash can

Burg Rheinstein

The first castle we went to was Burg Rheinstein and it was probably one of my favorites. You could walk through the whole castle and up all the different staircases. The castle and the gardens were very beautiful.

On our way up...it was quite the journey just to get to the castle. All of us at the entrance.

I loved Germany's country sides, all the crops looked like a patchwork quilt on the side of the mountains.

Probably my favorite picture...of the castle from the top.

Trip of a Life Time

We just got back from a trip of a life time...Mike and Marian (Howard's sister) took us to Germany for a week. It was quite a change from America, but we enjoyed seeing and doing so many different things. We saw many castles, cathedrals and palaces. So...I'll be posting pics of our trip, but warning: we have a ton and its been a bit overwhelming to go through! haha So here is the first of probably many blog posts of our trip to Germany!

Howard and I hadn't ever traveled abroad before and were a bit nervous about how customs and everything would work in a foreign country that we don't speak the language. Everything worked out especially after a very nice American man told us where we were supposed to go! After meeting up with The Shaws at the airport we were off! (and as a side note, were very tired, but had to adjust to the time change.)

First stop: Lock Mespelbrunn

Then onto the Wurzburg Residence

This residence was just breathtaking...it was sooo HUGE and everything was very very detailed inside. (Pictures weren't allowed inside)

Weekend in San Diego

We spent the past weekend in San Diego visiting my brother, Rand. It was just a wonderful weekend...and much needed vacation! :)
Saturday we went to Sea World. Howard had been wanting to go to Sea World since we've been married, but hasn't wanted to go with just me...as I wouldn't be too much fun! haha, but we had such a good time with my parents and Rand and Leslie. I was amazed at how much fun we all had!

in front of Sea World Howard, Leslie and RandRand, my mom and LeslieAt the Shark Exhibit...I so did not want to go to this, but am glad I did. While Rand was feeding the Sea Lions, a bird came and grabbed the fish right out of his hand! Needless to say it freaked Rand out and we had a good laugh at that!

While there we saw Suzette and Bryan!! :) me and my mama

Petting a sting ray

Waiting for the Shamu Show to start.

Holding a star fishThat night we went to Oceanside Harbor and ate at a yummy Mexican/Seafood place called Rockin' Baja. They had the best Salsa bar!