First on the agenda was to visit some Christmas markets. This is a picture of Emily and her mom in Nuremberg on the main square. Nuremburg has one of the largest, most historical markets in the world.
In Munich at the Medieval Christmas market, we tasted medieval mead and foods, "tried on" dresses, observed medieval craftsmen, and had a merry olde tyme!
Joshua was obviously the center of attention throughout the visit. Even when he's not in the picture, he's still the focus!
In Germany, stores shut down on Christmas eve for three days (Dec. 26 is also a holiday). On these days we took it easy, went on walks, and even got a light dusting of snow!
Christmas dinner was a highlight. We all pitched in: Jason cooked the turkey and gravy, Andy made traditional German red cabbage, Emily made mashed parships (not a typo, but she was the only one who seemed to enjoy it!) and other side dishes and the others served as kitchen assistants.
Pointing lessons with Grandpa. And a first read of Runaway Bunny!
Meredith, Jason, Emily and Andy spent the last day of 2008 sledding in Austria near Kitzbuehel. There was a sledding route at a ski slope which took 20 minutes for each run. It was a full body, exhilirating and exhausting experience! After 4 or 5 runs, we were all injured and ready to go home!
The New Year's festivities continued with Mom and Dad when we got back. For dinner we had raclette and then at midnight we went out to the street for a neighborhood fireworks display, including some of our own! Joshua slept right through it all . . .
Happy 2009!
