O Tannenbaum

Evergreen trees have special meaning for people around the globe during the winter holidays. Did you know that the Germans can be thanked for starting the tradition of Christmas trees (and ornaments)? Evergreens have long been seen as a symbol of everlasting life. The first known use of a Christmas tree to celebrate the holiday …

Innsbruck Christkindlmarkt and Krampus

Old Town Innsbruck is a dream for any Christmas market lover. 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of Innsbruck’s iconic Weihnachtsmarkt, unique for combining tradition with sophistication and alpine flavor. The half-century tradition boasts a festive atmosphere with rows of market stalls filling the streets in various sections of the city. There are hot drinks, Tyrolean …

Grandpa in Garmisch

This is a pure reflection piece for me, but I think it’s worth sharing. My Grandpa Rich passed away 5 years ago today. I always think about him during this time of year, not just because of the anniversary of his passing, but because of the November Veteran’s Day holiday as well. For a few …

Almabtrieb

Origins of the word:“alm” means a high mountain pasture“treiben” means to herd or drive“Almabtrieb” is the driving of animals away from their mountain pastures Mid-September marks the beginning of autumn in the Allgäu region. Leaves of the large maple trees begin to change color and the animals must return to the valley after a summer …

Dhara the Dutch Bike

So let me tell you about Dhara, my trusty Dutch Bike purchased off of Facebook Marketplace… If I had to sum her up in a few words, I would say she is sturdy, practical, stylish, and low maintenance. I’ll go out on a limb here and say that she is my most favorite acquisition since …

A day trip from Garmish-Partenkirchen to the Eibsee

Our first weekend in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, we were eager to get exploring. It was a particularly hot summer day here, about 30 degrees Celsius (thats about 86 degrees in the King’s digits) and the perfect day for a swim. I had been fantasizing over pictures of the Eibsee since we were in the first stages of …