For those of us who grew up during the Cold War, the Berlin Wall was a stark symbol of Communist oppression in concrete and barbed wire. Living in the United States, it was difficult to imagine the lives of East Berliners, separated from their families and freedom on the other side of the wall. In November, 1989 when the wall was finally brought down, the surprising news was greeted with joyful tears and cheers around the world.
Merry Christmas to You!
It’s a Small World in Hamburg
Prague in Two Days
What did I see of Prague in two days? I know that it wasn’t enough time to see everything this old and beautiful city has to offer, but it was enough to realize that I must return. As expected, there are throngs of visitors (even on cold December days) and…
Lights, Action, London!
It’s a tradition that kicks off the holiday season in grand style and I was happy to be in London in 2009 for the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree lighting. Waiting for the official ceremony to start, the crowd was in a happy mood with much laughter filling the air.
December in Paris
For the past two years, I’ve been fortunate to spend a few days of early December in Paris. Last year, we arrived just in time to enjoy a snowfall that enhanced the whole experience for me.
A Tramp in Heidelberg
Mark Twain was enchanted by Heidelberg on his “tramp” through Europe in 1878 about which he wrote A Tramp Abroad
Raindrops on Roses
I must have a thousand photos of flowers taken in deserts, mountains, conservatories, and family gardens. I think some of the loveliest were taken of raindrops on roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens at The Regent’s Park in London. I visited on a not uncommon September day that alternated sunshine and…