Lot to report - so much has happened, my brain is swirling.
Came over from Turin on Monday morning & found a hotel pretty quickly. Not too fancy but cheap. Just my style. After getting settled went out to explore and stopped in for a sandwich only with a middle Eastern flair. A huge spit of beef cooking while the cook cuts off hunks of meat, puts it into bread w/ veggies & chile sauce. Good & cheap.
While there, a young Pakistani named Dani, started a conversation with us. He said he and others always wanted to go to America but now, he feels America does not want him. His cousin lives in the Bay area but he does not feel welcome & knows everything changed on 9/11. I tried to convince him that America still wanted him to visit but I wondered how difficult a visa would be for someone like him. I'm guessing not to easy. But it was a fun conversation til he asked if I voted for Bush. No one I have met here, in 2005 or this trip has any use for W. They just cannot believe that America would have someone like him as our leader. I'm getting a bit tired trying to explain. But it is great to discuss these kinds of things with people and I have found it always seems like we get along great and would just hope our leaders could do a bit of a better job.
Tim & I headed to the show about 6 & and; I was convinced we were going to have to get lucky to get to the right spot. But I forgot. Tim has done this many times and knows his way around pretty good. So we ended up at the Dutch Forum with plenty of time to spare.
We agree that we would really like to see the show but if the price is too high, we pass. After several we finally got 2 on the floor for 45 euros. The guy was a tough negotiator but when we prepared to walk from the deal he finally accepted. The scalpers were out in force & were very aggressive but we were each in.
Tim always must find a place to stash the bag containing the posters before the show in some place where they won't be stolen. As he was trying to get some help from the local security an Italian policeman asked what he needed. When Tim explained, the kindly officer showed him where he could safely put the bag. He got in after the first song and all was good.
The show was one of the best I have ever seen. Some shows seem to have an energy or spirit the other shows lack. It seems people standing on the floor, the age of the crowd and the band's energy all combine to produce those moments which make all the travel, expense and lost sleep seem like such small prices to pay. It was extrordinary. Here' the setlist http://my.execpc.com/~billp61/042707s.html
The Italian crowd seemed to feel lucky to be there & roared their approval when Theme For The Common Man started. Then the band kicked into Cat's In The Cradle and things started to rock. When they recognized It Ain't Me, Babe, Bob and the boys grabbed hold and didn't let loose. When Tom Thumbs Blues started Tim said this was the best concert he'd seen so far, I nodded my head and thought this is why I came.
It's Alright, Ma was next and even though I have heard this chestnut more than most it had an urgency and emotion that was both rare & exciting. The guitar work was thrilling. The lead soaring, the 2nd guitar charging and everyone else hanging on for dear life. It I had any question about the show, this song quelled any doubts. I was staggered that such an old song, sung by a person who qualifies for Social Security could bring so much passion and fire. The crowd was going nuts and I thought who can blame them.
The people on the floor seem to bring the energy up and then it feeds to the band & the back in some sort of a self-reinforcing closed loop of energy & excitement. To Ramona was next & while this song is always a treat tonight it seemed to lack any buildup or climax but just sorted of meandered along. Nice but nothing to come to Italy for.
Tim said he just hoped to hear Nettie Moore & When The Deal Goes Down. I hoped he got his wish - because he's a great guy but also because they are among my favorites as well.
After a fun and appreciated Rollin' & Tumblin' he launched into Spirit On The Water. If memory serves the crowd was clapping and really into the guitar and vocals. Tim said he sang a verse twice on Stuck in Mobile but if he did, I missed it. Another song I have heard so many times but tonight the band was right on the money & Bob seemed to be living the words all over again, whatever it means.
Desolation Row, usually elicts a grown from me but - you guessed it - tonights version seemed even more biting and hard hitting. Enjoyed it from the beginning to end. Next came I'll Be Your Baby Tonight and my mind went to Rick & I singing this simple, heart-felt song and trying to get it right. Bob again seemed to be rembering the emotion he had when writting it and the crowd loved it.
Tim then had his first wish granted as When The Deal Goes Down started. It was sublime and the lighters came out - a throwback to the Before The Flood tour. It seemed a nice touch.
Great finish including Nettie Moore - and then ending the main show with Rolling Stone. Seemed to work much better than Blowin' In The Wind choice in Turin. The crowd was predictably going wild but we started out to get set for the poster buyers.
Sure enough; Tim's bag was right were he left it and he got me set up in what we hoped would be a prime spot. No other poster sellers but tons of tee shirts. I had a tough time knowing what to say. I figured most knew English but wondered what I'd think if there was some guy outside the Fox yelling in Italian something about posters.
People would say cuanto or ask how much & I'd try to answer but usually just hold up 5 fingers. They got the message and started buying like mad. I sold 120 or so & didn't discount more than 10. It's wild, like a feeding frenzy. They're trying to buy & I'm trying to take their money and get the right change back. Mostly I did but occasionally they would point out they had given me a 20 & were due some change. I'd try to apologize & then move them out of the way so the next batch could fling Euro notes at me.
Many young people wanted a poster and if they were old enough they bought one but sometimes their parents dug down for that strong currency - Tim said dollars used to be welcome but now the value has dropped too low.
So the crowd was gone & I suggested one of the waiting taxis but Tim thought there might be a chance to grab a ride with someone heading back to the city center. But no luck and I wondered if there would be a way back. Luckily another cab rolled up, we hopped in and watched the meter start to cut into our profits. Grabbed a Jack Daniels for me and a couple of beers for Tim and since the place was closing, stood outside on the sidewalk talking to some British folks who had been to the show.
Then we have a conversation with a guy from Naples who was holding one of our posters he had bought from us earlier. He didn't speak any English, but Tim understands and can communicate and I thought how odd. An Italian who doesn't understand English but loves Dylan. Hard to figure.
There is construction everywhere. Streets are torn up, cranes dot the skyline and buildings are being redone or fixed up. It is quite amazing. Wonder if it's due to the EU or some other cause.
Then came Stuck in Milano with the Zurich blues Again. Actually it was the first time and was caused by Tim's desire to avoid Switzerland & their tough border agents. What he does is can rub some countries the wrong way and I guess the Swiss are in that camp. I was supposed to go to Florence but called an audible and decided to head back to Paris in anticipation of setting up the last leg of the tour. We finally got on a train to Paris and pulled in just before midnight.
On the way we met a Chinese guy who turned out to be a basic researcher for an institute who uses satellite imagry to study volcanos. He was in Italy because they have 12 active volcanos. Fasinating conversation about the US, China & the world.
He said the US should not fear China, that China has never invaded another country and all they want is to build on their 5000 year old culture. He said harmony and solidarity were the most important goals and dontrasted that with the US & Europe where diversity and individuals were more highly prized. He said they could own building & businesses but not the land, that belonged to everyone. I got his email and hope Jerry can begin a dialogue with him prior to visiting. It was a wonderful conversation and I thought how fortunate to have had the chance to visit.
After an overnight in Paris we headed to Brussels where I am now. All around Europe are internet cafes. You can duck in, sign on & do whatever. In one cafe near the Sorborne in Paris almost all of the users where playing some kind of shooting game.
Tomorrow we're off to Mannheim and another show. Then Leipzig and Berlin and back to the land of Coca-Cola.
I really feel like each visit helps me get a bit better understanding of the people here and the other travellers like me. The more I learn, however, the less I feel I now. Seems like a contradiction but is real none the less.
More later.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Friday, April 27, 2007
Turin
What a night! My long lost friend Tim, who I met on my trip in 2005, was on the same tram stand as me on the way to concert. It was great to see him and we caught up on things since then.
He carries around hundreds of posters and then sells them after the concert. He offered to 'hire' me again and I went back to work.
But 1st the show. It was lightly attended and getting a cheap ticket was pretty easy. Bob and the boys sounded OK but the accoustics were not the best. A beautiful Spanish Boots and My Back Pages were highlights and I can not seem to stop singing Spirit on the Water. Set list is here http://my.execpc.com/~billp61/042607s.html
I met Mick from England who was celebrating a birthday. He is a friend of Tim's and has seen 185 shows and another guy from Holland who is close to 200. So you see I am really not that crazy. Well OK, maybe a bit.
The smells outside the venue in Italy are incredible. They set up mobile kitchens and cook there. It is so good. We had a couple of drinks to celebrate Mick's birthday and then got inside.
I ducked out before the encore and met with Tim outside. He got me positioned and got ready to sell. He gave me 80 posters and said I should try for 5 Euros each. He charges me 2 euros so I was ready to make some money.
People started dribbling out and I got no takers. Then they started buying. Ended up selling 56, almost all at 5. A few got a deal but not many. Tim said to just give him 100 euros and so I made about 160. Not bad for 30 minutes work.
Reminded me of a line from a Dylan song - my pockets are loaded but I'm spending every dime. It is great fun. Immediate gratification. They give you 5 you give them a poster. I have a few ideas on improving our merchandising but that's for another post.
It was so great to see Tim again. We found a place to get a drink, had to get it to go, or as they say here, take-away, and went back to my room and talked until 3AM. I could not sleep past 7:30 and am paying the price. But it's OK. Great seeing him, selling the poster and talking politics.
He is a bit of a socialist so we always have plenty to talk about.
I told him his business sounded like the way they describe poker, a hard way to make an easy living. It is not so bad for him except hauling the posters from city to city. I have ideas on that as well.
Great time, although my sightseeing was limited.
More later.
He carries around hundreds of posters and then sells them after the concert. He offered to 'hire' me again and I went back to work.
But 1st the show. It was lightly attended and getting a cheap ticket was pretty easy. Bob and the boys sounded OK but the accoustics were not the best. A beautiful Spanish Boots and My Back Pages were highlights and I can not seem to stop singing Spirit on the Water. Set list is here http://my.execpc.com/~billp61/042607s.html
I met Mick from England who was celebrating a birthday. He is a friend of Tim's and has seen 185 shows and another guy from Holland who is close to 200. So you see I am really not that crazy. Well OK, maybe a bit.
The smells outside the venue in Italy are incredible. They set up mobile kitchens and cook there. It is so good. We had a couple of drinks to celebrate Mick's birthday and then got inside.
I ducked out before the encore and met with Tim outside. He got me positioned and got ready to sell. He gave me 80 posters and said I should try for 5 Euros each. He charges me 2 euros so I was ready to make some money.
People started dribbling out and I got no takers. Then they started buying. Ended up selling 56, almost all at 5. A few got a deal but not many. Tim said to just give him 100 euros and so I made about 160. Not bad for 30 minutes work.
Reminded me of a line from a Dylan song - my pockets are loaded but I'm spending every dime. It is great fun. Immediate gratification. They give you 5 you give them a poster. I have a few ideas on improving our merchandising but that's for another post.
It was so great to see Tim again. We found a place to get a drink, had to get it to go, or as they say here, take-away, and went back to my room and talked until 3AM. I could not sleep past 7:30 and am paying the price. But it's OK. Great seeing him, selling the poster and talking politics.
He is a bit of a socialist so we always have plenty to talk about.
I told him his business sounded like the way they describe poker, a hard way to make an easy living. It is not so bad for him except hauling the posters from city to city. I have ideas on that as well.
Great time, although my sightseeing was limited.
More later.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Torino (Turin)
Rolled in on the night train at 7:30 this morning. It was supposed to arrive at 5:30 but as reliable as the German trains are, the Italian trains are not. Oh well, no hurry.
Did a bunch of cruising around Paris yesterday before catching the train. We had a veritable UN in our sleeping car. A guy from Japan hauling around samples of fashion accessories, a doctor from Argentina and a lady who only spoke French and said she was from Africa.
We solved most of the world's tough problems before we crashed. Unfortunately the Japanese guy snored like crazy. Luckily my iPod was charged so I was able to block most of the racket.
Had my first splurge on a hotel - near the train station and very nice. I needed a shower in the worst way and it was wonderful. It was so warm in Paris, and I walked so much, well - let's just say I needed the shower bad.
The show tonight is at 9PM. Kind of a late start but it's OK. I am going to head back to the room and take a nap - I know pretty exciting but my head feels a bit scrambled.
Turin seems very cool. High end stores, wonderful food and stylish people. Italy seems very cool. Learning Italian would go a long ways to helping me get around - but all I know is gracie and ciao.
Tomorrow back to Milan and then Florence. Loving the trip, but missing you all.
More later.
Did a bunch of cruising around Paris yesterday before catching the train. We had a veritable UN in our sleeping car. A guy from Japan hauling around samples of fashion accessories, a doctor from Argentina and a lady who only spoke French and said she was from Africa.
We solved most of the world's tough problems before we crashed. Unfortunately the Japanese guy snored like crazy. Luckily my iPod was charged so I was able to block most of the racket.
Had my first splurge on a hotel - near the train station and very nice. I needed a shower in the worst way and it was wonderful. It was so warm in Paris, and I walked so much, well - let's just say I needed the shower bad.
The show tonight is at 9PM. Kind of a late start but it's OK. I am going to head back to the room and take a nap - I know pretty exciting but my head feels a bit scrambled.
Turin seems very cool. High end stores, wonderful food and stylish people. Italy seems very cool. Learning Italian would go a long ways to helping me get around - but all I know is gracie and ciao.
Tomorrow back to Milan and then Florence. Loving the trip, but missing you all.
More later.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Paris
What an amazing place. It does not seem like it should work but it seems to very well.
Everyone is always in a hurry. A big hurry. Except me. I have been spending most of my time getting lost, somewhat on purpose. Rather than hitting all of the top spots, some of which I have already seen, I just wander around, trying to get a sense of the city and how people here live.
The plusses - great food, drink, culture and mass transit - the metro is a wonderful way to get around.
The minuses - it is very warm, time is short & it is expensive. But how I love this place. I can imagine living here - at least for a while. Also, these keyboards are about to drive me crazy.
Yesterday I walked & walked. Many do & they mostly seem in good shape. Even though the metro is very handy, you still do a bunch of walking.
I have been putting together a list of ideas or suggestions for Jerry & his friend Kevin who may visit this summer. It is somewhat staightforward but there are several hints I hope to share with them.
Antoine was my host for the past 2 nights. He was very friendly but since he has hosted so many surfers he has certain ideas about how it should go. I tried my best to be a good guest & hope it was OK for him. We just met for lunch near the Bastille. It was excellent food at a resonable price. Coucous with sausage or chicken, some kind of soup that went over everything, coffee & wine for 18 euros.
He sells different kinds of food to grocery stores. Last night he was delayed so I had a couple of drinks in his town - Chelles - while waiting for him. It seemed like Cheers, everyone knew each other, except yours truly. It really made me want to learn French.
Today I have been wandering around, just trying to learn the city. It has been here for over 2000 years. The history just jumps out at you.
I leave this evening on a night train to Milan. From there I plan to go right away to Turin. Then back to Milan before heading to Florence.
It is so cool to be able to stop at a cafe, have a coffee while resting, watch the people streaming by & then back to it. Most restaurants are open to the outside, so it seems like you are always eating in the open air. I really like it and wish there were more outdoor eating places in the States.
More later.
Everyone is always in a hurry. A big hurry. Except me. I have been spending most of my time getting lost, somewhat on purpose. Rather than hitting all of the top spots, some of which I have already seen, I just wander around, trying to get a sense of the city and how people here live.
The plusses - great food, drink, culture and mass transit - the metro is a wonderful way to get around.
The minuses - it is very warm, time is short & it is expensive. But how I love this place. I can imagine living here - at least for a while. Also, these keyboards are about to drive me crazy.
Yesterday I walked & walked. Many do & they mostly seem in good shape. Even though the metro is very handy, you still do a bunch of walking.
I have been putting together a list of ideas or suggestions for Jerry & his friend Kevin who may visit this summer. It is somewhat staightforward but there are several hints I hope to share with them.
Antoine was my host for the past 2 nights. He was very friendly but since he has hosted so many surfers he has certain ideas about how it should go. I tried my best to be a good guest & hope it was OK for him. We just met for lunch near the Bastille. It was excellent food at a resonable price. Coucous with sausage or chicken, some kind of soup that went over everything, coffee & wine for 18 euros.
He sells different kinds of food to grocery stores. Last night he was delayed so I had a couple of drinks in his town - Chelles - while waiting for him. It seemed like Cheers, everyone knew each other, except yours truly. It really made me want to learn French.
Today I have been wandering around, just trying to learn the city. It has been here for over 2000 years. The history just jumps out at you.
I leave this evening on a night train to Milan. From there I plan to go right away to Turin. Then back to Milan before heading to Florence.
It is so cool to be able to stop at a cafe, have a coffee while resting, watch the people streaming by & then back to it. Most restaurants are open to the outside, so it seems like you are always eating in the open air. I really like it and wish there were more outdoor eating places in the States.
More later.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Paris
Got to the concert hall about 90 minutes before the show. Someone had told me the show was a sellout so I did not know if it would work but I was hopeful. Decided to try to buy one cheap, held up one finger and in seconds 2 guys approached & said they had a 70 euro ticket they would sell for 50. I was ready with 2 twenties & they went for it.
Seat not that good but it was an excellent show & I made 2 friends; Sasha from Berlin & Benjamin from Bordeaux. Here is the setlist http://my.execpc.com/~billp61/042307s.html
They study political science in Bordeaux and were very friendly and loved the show. I told them I would send a copy of the show to them and they were very excited.
I had left my bags at the train station Gare de Nord but when I returned, the baggage area was closed. I was not happy but then realized this was one of those things that happens when travelling and decided to make the best of it.
I had made plans to couch surf with Antoine in Chelles, outside Paris. He could not have been more accomodating. He picked ,e up at the train station - RER E - at midnight. We talked for a bit and then sleep. He is really into skydiving and couch surfing. He has hosted almost 100 people in just under 2 years. His apartment is small but comfortable.
I went to get crossaints sp? while he made coffee. We had a nice visit and he went to work while I have taken the train back to Paris. I plan to hit the Musee de Orsay and tour around the city. It is a wonderful place. Make plans to come as soon as you can. But try to get your bags before the place closes LOL:
I booked a night train for Wed. to Milan. 25 euros for a couchette. Hope to find a shower there. After arriving I plan to go to Turin to see the Leonardo self portrait and try to see a concert.
More later. Leave a comment so I know if anyone is looking at this.
Your reporter, who is wearing the same clothes as yesterday. Oh well, that much longer til I need to do laundry.
Seat not that good but it was an excellent show & I made 2 friends; Sasha from Berlin & Benjamin from Bordeaux. Here is the setlist http://my.execpc.com/~billp61/042307s.html
They study political science in Bordeaux and were very friendly and loved the show. I told them I would send a copy of the show to them and they were very excited.
I had left my bags at the train station Gare de Nord but when I returned, the baggage area was closed. I was not happy but then realized this was one of those things that happens when travelling and decided to make the best of it.
I had made plans to couch surf with Antoine in Chelles, outside Paris. He could not have been more accomodating. He picked ,e up at the train station - RER E - at midnight. We talked for a bit and then sleep. He is really into skydiving and couch surfing. He has hosted almost 100 people in just under 2 years. His apartment is small but comfortable.
I went to get crossaints sp? while he made coffee. We had a nice visit and he went to work while I have taken the train back to Paris. I plan to hit the Musee de Orsay and tour around the city. It is a wonderful place. Make plans to come as soon as you can. But try to get your bags before the place closes LOL:
I booked a night train for Wed. to Milan. 25 euros for a couchette. Hope to find a shower there. After arriving I plan to go to Turin to see the Leonardo self portrait and try to see a concert.
More later. Leave a comment so I know if anyone is looking at this.
Your reporter, who is wearing the same clothes as yesterday. Oh well, that much longer til I need to do laundry.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Vittel & Paris
Greqt visit with Evelyne, Paul & Ludmilla in Vittel. It was short - did not arrive until 15:30. Just like last time they were all there at the train station to greet me. We had a very nice visit on their patio and then a great dinner.
It was exciting time. The French election, 1st stage was yesterday. Their canidate will be one of 2 who will be decided on 5/5.
We had a very nice walk around town and then coffee & desert. We also looked at the family tree info that Auntie Liz put together.
Early train this morning to Nancy. Rode with Ludmilla who was going back to school for the week. It was great to see them again.
Now I am in Paris. Love this place. As quiet & peaceful as Vittel is, Paris is mad. Did the Louvre this afternoon & saw the Leonardos & a bunch of other cool stuff.
Staying tonight with Antoine. I am going in a bit to see if I can get a ticket for tonights show. I am hoping for good luck.
Hope all is well with everyone. It is beautiful here. Very warm.
More soon.
It was exciting time. The French election, 1st stage was yesterday. Their canidate will be one of 2 who will be decided on 5/5.
We had a very nice walk around town and then coffee & desert. We also looked at the family tree info that Auntie Liz put together.
Early train this morning to Nancy. Rode with Ludmilla who was going back to school for the week. It was great to see them again.
Now I am in Paris. Love this place. As quiet & peaceful as Vittel is, Paris is mad. Did the Louvre this afternoon & saw the Leonardos & a bunch of other cool stuff.
Staying tonight with Antoine. I am going in a bit to see if I can get a ticket for tonights show. I am hoping for good luck.
Hope all is well with everyone. It is beautiful here. Very warm.
More soon.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Wyhl Germany
It is early Sunday morning and I feel much better than I deserve. Yesterday was like a dream, a very good dream.
Patrick & Hannah picked me up at the Freiburg train station. We did not have a place to meet and we had never met, but he came up to me, smiled, and said Bill? We jumped in his car and drove off to their home. There Julia was waiting and after a visit on their patio she brought out great food. It was spaghetti with a white sauce and asparagus. It is the season now and it was delicious.
Julia´s grandmother, Eva, lives in an apartment, attached to their home. She is delightful and speaks English very well. Her sister lives in Killen Texas with her husband who was in the military. She was very friendly and I really enjoyed our visit.
Elke, Patrick´s sister came for a visit and brought a half-dozen fresh eggs. We visited for awhile. She was like a ray of sunshine, laughing and happy, and it was a great pleasure to meet her.
Then we went to visit the wine growing region. It is very impressive. Terrace after terrace of grapes and the occasional winery and village. We stopped at a beautiful winery where Patrick said he had worked as a teen. He and I sipped a very tasty glass of red wine while Hannah played with some children on a swingset. It was very peaceful, beautiful and charming setting.
On the way back we listened to a bit of the Stuttgart-Bayer football (soccer) match. It was being held in the stadium next to the arena where the concert had been held. It was a big game and Stuttgart won.
Wyhl is bigger than I thought, about 3800 people and is very close to the Rhine river and hence to France. On the way back we drove over the river, into France, and then back to Wyhl.
When we arrived, there were many people there. Patrick´s parents, Alfred & Agnes, Elke and her husband Bernd (who leaves shortly for a fishing trip to Alaska), brother Juergen and his wife Ute and many children. Anke, Steffen, Kerstin, Hendrik, Sophia, Gina were all there as well.
We had a barbecue and it was amazing. Beef, chicken, fish kabobs, lamb, and others all went on the grill. A wonderful salad, a potato salad made by Agnes, a carrot dish and many others. I told them it was a feast and I was very grateful for their thoughtfulness and care.
It was a lovely meal on the patio and everything was so good and tasty. After a while we had sparkling wine, espresso and then more red wine. They were drinking beer so it was my job to work on the bottle of wine and I did OK. That is why I am lucky not to feel worse this morning.
We were talking about music and Kerstain, daughter of Elke and Bernd, went to get her guitar. She came back and played several songs. She was great. We were clapping and singing along. Then they sang a song they sing for birthdays. I did not understand the words but the sentiment was unmistakable.
Now the candles were on the table, the yard so beautiful and peaceful. I felt like I was among family and I was. It was a wonderful feeling.
Patrick and Julia are two very special people. Julia went out of her way to make me feel welcome and to let me know how happy she was that I had come for a visit. Their home is so lovely, beautiful wood, tile and windows everywhere. Next door live sister Ute and her husband Marcus but sadly for me they were away on a trip. I hope to meet them next visit.
Yes the next visit. I am already planning a visit in the near future and I am still at their home. That is how welcome they made me feel. I am very lucky to have met them and it is due to the work Sister Liz has done on the family tree and her connection with our European relatives.
I have many photos (I think) and hope to load them soon. Now it is off to Vittel, France and Evelyne, Paul and maybe Ludmilla. I am very anxious to see them. But I do not want to leave Wyhl. A part of my heart stays here. I am so glad I came but so sad to leave.
Patrick & Hannah picked me up at the Freiburg train station. We did not have a place to meet and we had never met, but he came up to me, smiled, and said Bill? We jumped in his car and drove off to their home. There Julia was waiting and after a visit on their patio she brought out great food. It was spaghetti with a white sauce and asparagus. It is the season now and it was delicious.
Julia´s grandmother, Eva, lives in an apartment, attached to their home. She is delightful and speaks English very well. Her sister lives in Killen Texas with her husband who was in the military. She was very friendly and I really enjoyed our visit.
Elke, Patrick´s sister came for a visit and brought a half-dozen fresh eggs. We visited for awhile. She was like a ray of sunshine, laughing and happy, and it was a great pleasure to meet her.
Then we went to visit the wine growing region. It is very impressive. Terrace after terrace of grapes and the occasional winery and village. We stopped at a beautiful winery where Patrick said he had worked as a teen. He and I sipped a very tasty glass of red wine while Hannah played with some children on a swingset. It was very peaceful, beautiful and charming setting.
On the way back we listened to a bit of the Stuttgart-Bayer football (soccer) match. It was being held in the stadium next to the arena where the concert had been held. It was a big game and Stuttgart won.
Wyhl is bigger than I thought, about 3800 people and is very close to the Rhine river and hence to France. On the way back we drove over the river, into France, and then back to Wyhl.
When we arrived, there were many people there. Patrick´s parents, Alfred & Agnes, Elke and her husband Bernd (who leaves shortly for a fishing trip to Alaska), brother Juergen and his wife Ute and many children. Anke, Steffen, Kerstin, Hendrik, Sophia, Gina were all there as well.
We had a barbecue and it was amazing. Beef, chicken, fish kabobs, lamb, and others all went on the grill. A wonderful salad, a potato salad made by Agnes, a carrot dish and many others. I told them it was a feast and I was very grateful for their thoughtfulness and care.
It was a lovely meal on the patio and everything was so good and tasty. After a while we had sparkling wine, espresso and then more red wine. They were drinking beer so it was my job to work on the bottle of wine and I did OK. That is why I am lucky not to feel worse this morning.
We were talking about music and Kerstain, daughter of Elke and Bernd, went to get her guitar. She came back and played several songs. She was great. We were clapping and singing along. Then they sang a song they sing for birthdays. I did not understand the words but the sentiment was unmistakable.
Now the candles were on the table, the yard so beautiful and peaceful. I felt like I was among family and I was. It was a wonderful feeling.
Patrick and Julia are two very special people. Julia went out of her way to make me feel welcome and to let me know how happy she was that I had come for a visit. Their home is so lovely, beautiful wood, tile and windows everywhere. Next door live sister Ute and her husband Marcus but sadly for me they were away on a trip. I hope to meet them next visit.
Yes the next visit. I am already planning a visit in the near future and I am still at their home. That is how welcome they made me feel. I am very lucky to have met them and it is due to the work Sister Liz has done on the family tree and her connection with our European relatives.
I have many photos (I think) and hope to load them soon. Now it is off to Vittel, France and Evelyne, Paul and maybe Ludmilla. I am very anxious to see them. But I do not want to leave Wyhl. A part of my heart stays here. I am so glad I came but so sad to leave.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Freiburg Germany
It is Saturday morning and I have had a very nice train ride from Stuttgart. The trains are on time, comfortable and safe. Love this mode of transport. I am in Frieburg to meet Patrick, my cousin, who lives in Wyhl Germany. He stayed with Auntie Liz at Notre Dame Motherhouse when he visited last year. I am looking forward to meeting him. I plan to stay the night in Wyhl and then head to Vittel, France to see Evelyne and Jean Paul.
The concert was great. Ended up buying a ticket from a guy named Malcom who is English but living in Stuttgart. Gave 40 euros for a 70e ticket. Great seats. On the side up a couple of rows.
The band seemed to be on fire. Set list is here. http://my.execpc.com/~billp61/042007s.html
My 1st show in about a year. The band really seemed to be into it. The guitarist - Denny Freeman got several nice rounds of applause for very nicely played solos. Tony Garnier, the bassist, was very high in the mix and it was great to hear a very good bass player.
Bob was amazing. 65 years old and still rocking. Started off playing guitar on the 1st four songs. Played some lead and was singing like his life depended on it. Sugar Baby sounded like he had been condemmed and was hoping for clemency. It was an amazing performance. I can´t wait to hear it again. I can´t think of a better example. Still vibrant. Still creating. Yet retirement age for most people.
The floor was packed with people. I tried to get there but there was no entry from the seated part of the hall. Worked out very well anyway. Excellent sound and sightlines.
Miss you all. But loving the trip so far.
Cheers.
The concert was great. Ended up buying a ticket from a guy named Malcom who is English but living in Stuttgart. Gave 40 euros for a 70e ticket. Great seats. On the side up a couple of rows.
The band seemed to be on fire. Set list is here. http://my.execpc.com/~billp61/042007s.html
My 1st show in about a year. The band really seemed to be into it. The guitarist - Denny Freeman got several nice rounds of applause for very nicely played solos. Tony Garnier, the bassist, was very high in the mix and it was great to hear a very good bass player.
Bob was amazing. 65 years old and still rocking. Started off playing guitar on the 1st four songs. Played some lead and was singing like his life depended on it. Sugar Baby sounded like he had been condemmed and was hoping for clemency. It was an amazing performance. I can´t wait to hear it again. I can´t think of a better example. Still vibrant. Still creating. Yet retirement age for most people.
The floor was packed with people. I tried to get there but there was no entry from the seated part of the hall. Worked out very well anyway. Excellent sound and sightlines.
Miss you all. But loving the trip so far.
Cheers.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Leaving Dusseldorf
What a night! Did not get to see the concert, but had a terrific time with my host Christine. There were no tickets to be had at anything like a decent price so decided against going. We walked the Rhine River bank and stopped at a couple of places for drinks.
Then we went to dinner at a restaurant with Morrocon food. (Spell check does not work so well when the computer is checking my English against its German dictionarz, so please allow your very tired reporter some slack.)
Aftet a great dinner we came back to her apartment and I met her friend Judith who was watching the kids, Aaron who is 5 and Luna who is 2. They were asleep but we stayed up talking until 3AM. It is now 7:30. My eyes have not opened yet. Christine said the children would come into my room and wake me, it I would like. So they did. Just now remembering I forgot to get their pictures. Drat.
Aaron has a bunch of hand prints on the wall of his bedroom. I was given the honor of adding mine. It is in blue, near the top, in case you visit.
Our discussion centered around politics but it was a very friendly and easy discussion. What was tough was listening to Christine describe her last "visit" to the US. She was connecting thru Atlanta on her way to Mexico.It seems Immigration, or someone, felt as though she was a threat. So they handcuffed her, searched her and then put her in a room for 5 hours with no communication or chance to make a phone call. People were meeting her in Mexico but she was not allowed to contact them.
She then had to stay another 11 hours in the room with nothing but a clock before being escorted to the plane. She has no idea what they thought she did or why she was treated this way. No explanation, no apology. Just get on your way. I wonder if the people doing this have any thoughts about how they or their family might be treated in a similiar situation.
She could not have been nicer or any more welcoming. They have all left for the day and I am here alone. Very trusting. She speaks German, French, Spanish and English and studies literature and linguistics at the University in Dusseldorf. She also performs translation services for local businesses.
I would like to write more but my brain refuses to work. I am heading for Stuttgart where I hope my luck will be better with tickets. It could not be better than my welcome in Dusseldorf. It was an amazing visit with a very remarkable young lady.
Then we went to dinner at a restaurant with Morrocon food. (Spell check does not work so well when the computer is checking my English against its German dictionarz, so please allow your very tired reporter some slack.)
Aftet a great dinner we came back to her apartment and I met her friend Judith who was watching the kids, Aaron who is 5 and Luna who is 2. They were asleep but we stayed up talking until 3AM. It is now 7:30. My eyes have not opened yet. Christine said the children would come into my room and wake me, it I would like. So they did. Just now remembering I forgot to get their pictures. Drat.
Aaron has a bunch of hand prints on the wall of his bedroom. I was given the honor of adding mine. It is in blue, near the top, in case you visit.
Our discussion centered around politics but it was a very friendly and easy discussion. What was tough was listening to Christine describe her last "visit" to the US. She was connecting thru Atlanta on her way to Mexico.It seems Immigration, or someone, felt as though she was a threat. So they handcuffed her, searched her and then put her in a room for 5 hours with no communication or chance to make a phone call. People were meeting her in Mexico but she was not allowed to contact them.
She then had to stay another 11 hours in the room with nothing but a clock before being escorted to the plane. She has no idea what they thought she did or why she was treated this way. No explanation, no apology. Just get on your way. I wonder if the people doing this have any thoughts about how they or their family might be treated in a similiar situation.
She could not have been nicer or any more welcoming. They have all left for the day and I am here alone. Very trusting. She speaks German, French, Spanish and English and studies literature and linguistics at the University in Dusseldorf. She also performs translation services for local businesses.
I would like to write more but my brain refuses to work. I am heading for Stuttgart where I hope my luck will be better with tickets. It could not be better than my welcome in Dusseldorf. It was an amazing visit with a very remarkable young lady.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Dusseldorf
Just had a very nice lunch with my new friend Christine. She is my host for this evening. She is a student at the local university but loves to travel and host travelers. My good luck.
1st concert is tonight. I am going to head to Philliphalle in a bit and try to come up with a ticket. Plus Christine wants to go so I will try to find one for her as well. (This German keyboard has a couple of letters in different spots. Kind of challenging.)
I have some cool photos but no luck yet on getting them online. Soon I hope.
On the train from Amsterdam, I thought I had an unreserved seat. Wrong. A large group of, maybe travel agents, were going to Dusseldorf and I had grabbed the wrong seat. They were very nice but I felt like I was at the ballgame and had gotten into the box seats and then caught.
Last night was my 1st in a hostel. Had 3 room mates - English students, I think. They were in after I had gone to sleep and left just as I was getting up. That 1st day after the trip is tough. But feel like I am back mostly.
So far my only problem has been forgetting my phone and iPod charger. It was funny. The taxi driver said most people forgot chargers. I said I had before, but not this time. Oops.
More later. Hope all is well back in the good ol' US of A.
1st concert is tonight. I am going to head to Philliphalle in a bit and try to come up with a ticket. Plus Christine wants to go so I will try to find one for her as well. (This German keyboard has a couple of letters in different spots. Kind of challenging.)
I have some cool photos but no luck yet on getting them online. Soon I hope.
On the train from Amsterdam, I thought I had an unreserved seat. Wrong. A large group of, maybe travel agents, were going to Dusseldorf and I had grabbed the wrong seat. They were very nice but I felt like I was at the ballgame and had gotten into the box seats and then caught.
Last night was my 1st in a hostel. Had 3 room mates - English students, I think. They were in after I had gone to sleep and left just as I was getting up. That 1st day after the trip is tough. But feel like I am back mostly.
So far my only problem has been forgetting my phone and iPod charger. It was funny. The taxi driver said most people forgot chargers. I said I had before, but not this time. Oops.
More later. Hope all is well back in the good ol' US of A.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a great city. At least it is very friendly. I talked for quite a bit to a taxi driver named Kamal who's family came from Morocco but he was born here in the Netherlands. He speaks, Dutch, English, German and Arabic. Very nice guy who gave me a lot of helpful information.
The city is pretty easy to get around, once you understand the system. I waited too long to ask about my tram, which was number 2 to get to my hotel/museum district. I was on the East side of Amsterdam Centraal, where all trains go. My tram was on the West side. Oh well, no harm done.
Yesterday I took the NJ transit train into Manhattan from Newark airport. Then the D train to Fordham Univ. It was quite eye-opening. The campus is beautiful but the surroundings are not. Jerry may be going to school there. Still trying to decide.
Off to the Van Gogh Museum and then the Rijksmuseum (lots of Rembrandt). Been looking forward to these for a while. More later.
The city is pretty easy to get around, once you understand the system. I waited too long to ask about my tram, which was number 2 to get to my hotel/museum district. I was on the East side of Amsterdam Centraal, where all trains go. My tram was on the West side. Oh well, no harm done.
Yesterday I took the NJ transit train into Manhattan from Newark airport. Then the D train to Fordham Univ. It was quite eye-opening. The campus is beautiful but the surroundings are not. Jerry may be going to school there. Still trying to decide.
Off to the Van Gogh Museum and then the Rijksmuseum (lots of Rembrandt). Been looking forward to these for a while. More later.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Panic
The time is 21:06 and the date is 4/16/07. I leave St. Louis in nine hours and some minutes. I really should have planned this better. But, I will be on that plane at 06:30 on 4/17/07. What was I thinking, the world wonders.
Otherwise really excited. Great visit w/ Aunt Frankie and all of the Corby's. What a family we have. Going to Nashville real soon. It would be crazy not to visit more often.
Need to finish some paperwork, load a few things and try to figure out how I am getting to the airport.
Otherwise really excited. Great visit w/ Aunt Frankie and all of the Corby's. What a family we have. Going to Nashville real soon. It would be crazy not to visit more often.
Need to finish some paperwork, load a few things and try to figure out how I am getting to the airport.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Trip Plans
There is a web site - couch surfing - http://couchsurfing.com/ that helps travelers find couches, or beds, in different places. To join, you offer your couch, if you want. It is very nicely done. The people involved seem to have a wonderful mission. It seems the idea would be to save money. However, meeting people in the different cities is my primary motivation. Whenever I met people on my previous trip, the conversation brightened my day and left memories I cherish to this day.
The people who have agreed to host me, Antoine in Chelles, France and Christine in Dusseldorf, seem to be wonderful people who are willing to open their door to a stranger. In this case, me. From their profile, it seems they have done this many times before.
I will also stay with Evelyne and Paul in Vittel, France and I wonder who will be the next person to offer a couch. What a world!
Started to do some checking in Geneva, Switzerland for a couch. It seems there may not be enough time in Milan and Florence, so Geneva might get skipped.
My host in Paris, who skydives and hosts travelers, said he would like to see the Dylan show as well. I hope to send him some current shows on disc so he can become familiar with the current sound. Anyone else who wants to hear some shows, should let me know. I have a couple.
Eight days plus a few hours and I am off to NYC and then Amsterdam.
The people who have agreed to host me, Antoine in Chelles, France and Christine in Dusseldorf, seem to be wonderful people who are willing to open their door to a stranger. In this case, me. From their profile, it seems they have done this many times before.
I will also stay with Evelyne and Paul in Vittel, France and I wonder who will be the next person to offer a couch. What a world!
Started to do some checking in Geneva, Switzerland for a couch. It seems there may not be enough time in Milan and Florence, so Geneva might get skipped.
My host in Paris, who skydives and hosts travelers, said he would like to see the Dylan show as well. I hope to send him some current shows on disc so he can become familiar with the current sound. Anyone else who wants to hear some shows, should let me know. I have a couple.
Eight days plus a few hours and I am off to NYC and then Amsterdam.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
photos
Here I am in a recent photo from a wedding. Lucky I don't wear a tie too often.
Here are Jerry & Katie at the same event, Maggie & Rich's wedding.
Itinerary
17 April - NYC - flight
18 April - Amsterdam
19 April - Dusseldorf
20 April - Stuttgart
21 April - Frankfurt (prob. skip)
22 April - Vittel France - Evelyne & Paul
23 April - Paris
24 April - Paris
25 April - Geneva
26 April - Turin
27 April - Milan
28 April - Florence
29 April - Zurich (skip?)
30 April - Mannheim (skip?)
1 May -
2 May - Leipzig
3 May - Berlin
4 May - Potsdam?
5 May - Berlin, NYC, STL
18 April - Amsterdam
19 April - Dusseldorf
20 April - Stuttgart
21 April - Frankfurt (prob. skip)
22 April - Vittel France - Evelyne & Paul
23 April - Paris
24 April - Paris
25 April - Geneva
26 April - Turin
27 April - Milan
28 April - Florence
29 April - Zurich (skip?)
30 April - Mannheim (skip?)
1 May -
2 May - Leipzig
3 May - Berlin
4 May - Potsdam?
5 May - Berlin, NYC, STL
Sunday, April 01, 2007
2 Weeks to Amsterdam
The flight looms large in my calendar window. Who will I meet, what will I see and hear?I will post my impressions and information here and would love to hear your comments and thoughts. Keep them positive, or else.
The itinerary starts in Amsterdam on April 18th. Dusseldorf, Stuttgart and Frankfurt follow. I hope to see family in Wyle Germany and Morsbach, France. A night in Vittel, France with Eveylne and Paul will be a highlight of my trip. After my last visit, I started looking forward to my next visit.
Then Paris. My third visit and my third Dylan concert there. Sometimes I gotta pinch myself. Also the Louve and the Institue de France offer staggering Leonardo treasures.
Planning on the TGV high-speed train to Geneva Switzerland on April 25th and then night trains to Turin and Milan. Another highlight should be Florence. No family but some decent art. Ok it's better than decent. Can't wait.
After a stop in Zurich, back into Germany with concerts in Mannheim, Leipzig and Berlin.
Wish me luck!
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