May 24-27, 2007

WOW! was Prague a good time. I have to begin by apologizing as my attempt to portray Prague and my adventures there will fall short of the incredible experience of the trip, but I will futilely strive to share all that was Prague.

We had a class day trip to Wien (Vienna) on Thursday after which all of the students and a professor (and his family) traveled on to Prague. We caught the 6ish train from Vienna and watched the picturesque landscape of open fields, running rivers, and old architecture pass by for five-ish hours, arriving in Prague about 23ish(11pm). From the train station we the large group headed our separate ways toward our respective hostels with a game plan to meet up in the morning in the Jewish Quarter to do some site seeing together. The group I was hosteling with consisted of Jackie G., Ashlee G., and Sarah Z. We headed from the train station out to our hostel, Hostel Elf located about 10 minutes by foot . . . well 10 minutes if you go the right direction. We initially headed out the right direction making our way confidently through the warm summer night of Prague, but over quickly realized that we had overshot our street and need to turn around. Back tracking we could not find the street, and so I stepped into a hotel to ask humbly for directions. After grabbing a few free maps, we thanked them for their help and quickly found the correct street. I have to admit the road we headed down was a bit creepy at times, but I never felt unsafe just extra alert. With each step I took the excitement of being in Prague grew. When we all saw the hostel from afar it was like seeing a calm in the horizon, as we were exhausted from a day in Vienna.

The sign for Hostel Elf hangs out perpendicular from the building and can be seen down the street. Once one reaches the sign they turn to a stair way leading to what can be seen as the back side of the building. As we reached the steps we could hear music blasting. We walked up the stairs to an out door lounge where people were hanging out, drinking and thoroughly enjoying their late night at the hostel. Immediately as we walked in the door I noticed a man sitting on the stool next to me smoking a huge joint (that would be marijuana for those who might not be familiar with the term). I have to admit that my initial thought was "oh my God, what did we get ourselves into?" The staff member checking us in explained to us that they were having some sort of staff party for some special occasion. We got through check in, got our keys and headed to bed. Jackie, Sarah and I were all in the same room as we had booked our stay together. The three of us shared a room together with five other people (only one of them currently sleeping when we arrived). We got our stuff settled to catch some shut eye around 1am. About 1:30ish we hear some pounding on the door and jiggling of the door handle. My initial thought was that it was some drunk people who were trying to get into the wrong room. Exhausted my only thought was Jackie don't open the door. After that ruckus, I eventually feel asleep. It seems now would be a good time to tell you the mystery behind the ruckus. Jackie, Sarah and I learned the next day that two of our male classmates, Doug P. & Matt C., had come by to make sure we had arrived safely to our hostel. Yeah, it was sweet of them.

Our hostel provided a free breakfast consisting of hardy corn flakes, tea, coffee and sandwiches, which all of our budgets loved. As an early bird I was out in the lounge that morning before breakfasted started. I chilled writing in my journal, trying to catch on the past days adventures (which I am struggling to keep up with as there is so much I am experiencing) when another traveler entered the room. A simple morning "hey" began a morning chat about our travels & experiences. This traveler's name is Oliver, a fire fighter from Laguna Beach, CA on a four week back packing trip with his buddy who just graduated from a University in San Fransisco. We had a friendly chat about what we had seen, what we were looking forward to seeing, were we were at in our lives and hoping to accomplish with our lives. He was headed out to his next destination that day, as we had just begun our exploring in Prague.

The four of us (Jackie, Ashlee, Sarah and I) headed to the Jewish Quarter to meet up with the rest of the group at 10am. Once the larger group got together we purchased tickets to see the Jewish quarter which encompassed most of Prague's synagogues and historical building revolving around the Jewish faith. The synagogues we visited had been converted into museums which exhibited the history of the Jewish community in Prague. It was interesting and I learned alot (in fact I was ashamed of how much I didn't know about the oppression of people of the Jewish faith dating long back before WWII). Of the six synagogues we visited a few stood in particular stood out. First was a synagogue that had been converted into a memorial for those people who had died in WWII. Etched into the walls of this synagogue was the name and a brief bio of the victims killed in WWII. One room of the synagogue was an exhibit of the children's artwork during the Holocaust. When exiting this synagogue one walks through a grumbled cemetery filled with stacks of tombstones. Whenever I enter cemeteries it always strikes me how each headstone marks a life, a life that has a story and a story worth remembering, but the question arises who will remember the person's story?
It is worth mentioning that after the first museum the big group split up, deciding smaller groups were more advantageous. Jackie G. and I decided to stick together and turned out to make great travel buddies. As we were visiting the synagogues we stubbed across an interesting looking store at which point we wondered in. Almost as soon as I walk I found a pretty glass set and began looking at different pieces. Shortly after walking into the store a man walks up to me and begins telling me about the glasses and that he will give me a discount because I a beautiful. While suspicious of the genuineness of his comment, I thanked him and continued looking around. As I was looking around I heard a mans voice call to me "Jo, you are from Phoenix yeah?" I spun around to see a man who had called my name standing with Jackie, "No, Tucson, why?" "Cause I know you." At this point I am running though names and faces in my head trying to match some identity with the figure before me, but quickly I realize that I did not know this person. After a few split seconds of wondering, the guy states "Jo, you are famous here," at this point I am confused, "you are from the 50 Cent video Candy Shop!" Apparently he thought I was a back up dancer from a music video. I instantly tried to explain that I wasn't but he continually insisted that I was, so I decided to roll with it. After finally admitting to my true identity (a backup dancer for 50 Cent), he asked me if he could get a picture with me and if I would sign his arm and so I agreed. He then began to spread the word to the rest of the store about who I was and that he had gotten my signature. After proudly sharing his discovery, he offered me a discount on anything in the store, "For you Josephine anything." At this point I became very indecisive about the glasses I was looking at and decided to check out a few others. Well, my indecision lasted a while, and during this time kdikdi kept asking me random questions & hitting on me and then proposed marriage (kidding of course. . .well at least I think). He asked me if I had a boyfriend, and at this point I decided to make up one who was back home in the States, however this did not seem to bother him as he felt that if he (that being my boyfriend) cared he would be traveling with me. During this whole scene I was suspicious that I might be getting ripped off, but after all the amusement of the whole scene I decided to go ahead and buy the original glass set. When I went to pay he handed the glass set to the cashier and informed him to give me the discount. The cashier looked shocked and asked if he heard the discount right. Some how in the midst of me deciding which glasses to get, it came up that he should get a kiss (not exactly sure how this got brought up, or for what reason he thought he deserved one, but a kiss on the check never harmed anyone), so when he left me with the cashier he was sure to remind me that, "I will be waiting right outside for the kiss, don't forget about the kiss." And sure enough as I walked out the door there was kdidk with a huge smile on his face. I gave him a kiss on the check and said goodbye, but asked him for his name at which point he decided to give me both his number and email address. He also asked me if I would get a drink with him later but declined as I didn't really want to go out with a guy I knew nothing about, in a foreign country where I didn't speak the language and didn't know the city well enough to be safe; I especially didn't want to go out for alcoholic drinks under these circumstances. Jackie and I said goodbye and headed down the street. At this point we are laughing and I am wondering what just happened (a bit embarrassed to share the story, but it was a memory I will never forget). Oh and after this memorable moment I decided that I would start greeting & parting with Europeans the European way of one kiss on each side of the check. So after our glass fun, Jackie and I decided to explore Prague on the other side of the river. Walking down the street we could see what looked to be a giant metronome, so we decided to check it out. The view from the top was amazing! you could see all of Prague. The city stretches wide similar to Phoniex. We enjoyed the view for a bit and then decided to walk along the top of the hill. In our exploration we came upon a summer palace for a former Emperor (I think it was called the Kramarova Villa). After strolling around the Villa, we continued and found the Prague castle. It was beautiful, and quiet as there were maybe 20 other people around when we arrived (late afternoon/early evening). As we were walking around we turned a corner and there before us was a awe striking cathedral. It was huge! It instantly made me feel so small, insignificant, and humble. Once we were done exploring the castle, we headed down to the river by the Charles Bridge. We came upon a cute cafe/restaurant under the bridge with a dock for customers wanting a romantic motor boat dinner that took one around the city. I admired the scene while Jackie went to find a restroom. As I was gazing into the distance a man walked up to me and started a conversation. His name was Tidiji and he was working and studying in Prague. He is originally from West Africa, but moved to Prague three years ago to learn English. We chatted for a bit until Jackie came back. After saying goodbye to Tidiji (one kiss on each cheek of course) Jackie and I headed across the Charles bridge to our hostel's side of the river.

May 19, 2007

Today was our first class trip. We headed out to Hallstatt which is small village (under 900 people) with the oldest salt mine in the world. The salt mine dates back 7000 years, yes you read that right 7000 years! We took an awesome tour of the mine. To get up to the mine you have to take a lift, which gives you a beautiful overlook of the town, then you hike up through the gorgeous mountains filled with picturesque views, streams, and wild flowers to the mine entrance (I could have hiked that mountain all day). Before entering the salt mine we were given protective garments for our clothes. They looked sort of like jump suits with reinforced bottoms. The tour itself was interesting and through. It was such a mind bloggling feeling to stand in a place that other human beings have been standing for 7000 years. As a part of the tour we learned how the salt mines came about, how the salt is cultivated and the history of the mine. Inside the mine there are slides, which are used as par of the transportation from one area to the next. It was quiet amusing to slide from one floor to another. After the mine we went into the town of Hallstatt to view a charnel house. The charnel house was developed out of a necessity for burial space. Thus every 10 years all the graves of Hallstatt are dug up and the remains/bones are placed the charnel house. It was interesting to see this practical solution to a lack of burial space.
Once we were done looking at the charnel house we had some free time to explore Hallstatt. A few of us looked around a bit and then split off for lunch. Liana and I found a hole in the wall deli and decided to sit and have a sausage. I had a Debreziner, which was described to me as the spicy sausage even though I found no kick to it. While eating lunch I struck up a conversation with the Deli lady, Bridgitte. I asked her about Hallstatt: what she thought of it, traditions, special places, frustrations, ect. I found out that Hallstatt only has one elementary school so all the other children must bus or take the train to neighboring towns. She went on about how she loved the beauty of Hallstatt but that the snow made it difficult to commute during winter months. Bridgitte also explained that people in Hallstatt love living there, but that because of the lack of jobs young people and families have to move to the bigger cities. However they tend to return to retire later in life. I also learned that Hallstatt is home to one of the most known and skilled schools for architecture/carpentry schools (which during the academic year raises Hallstatt's population by over 200). Brigitte also shared some stories about her father who use to work in the salt mines when it was all manual labor. I really enjoyed talking to a local and getting to hear their opinion of their town. Once Liana and I were through with lunch we wonder the town a bit and met up with the rest of the group.
The class loaded the buses around 2:30pm and headed out to Wolfgange lake (another quiet lake town) were we just chilled for about an hour and a half. We soon loaded back on the buses again to head home when Dr. M surprised us with a treated ride on a summer luge. It was FANTASTIC! I had such a great time!!!! Ok so a for the luge ride you sit down on this flat seat thing and are dragged to the top of a hill by a ski lift. At the top of the hill you move your seat thing to the luge track, sit down and go. You soar! curving with the bends of the track, in a way it seems you are one with the luge. It is such a blast. Definitely a highlight of the trip. After the awesome surprise we loaded up and headed home.

May 18, 2007

Today was the second day of classes, nothing out of the ordinary class wise. After class I went for a walk along the river. I have to admit it was nice to get away from the commotion of the city and from the group. For those of you who know the area, I headed left once I got to the river (the part with the 6 low shooting water fountain thing). The walk took me by a nice park, one that reminded me of Randolf Park back in Tucson (although not as big). Also along the way was a miniature golf course, which seemed to be dated in the 70s. I kept walking for a while. I strolled along the river on a path that was canopied by gentle trees. The walk was so relaxing.
Once arriving back at the UP Center I helped prepare a dinner for a few of us decided to go in together on a meal. It was nice to have a meal with others. After dinner Sarah Z. and I went for a walk in search of a possible dessert and/or drinks. We found an Italian joint that looked promising. The restaurant had three desserts so we decided to split all of them trying each dessert. We ended up sitting downstairs which looked like an old celler with brick arched roofs, and a nice wood bar, and seating. The desserts were fabulous, and the glass of wine I decided to enjoy with it was great. I enjoyed just sitting back and relaxing; enjoying a good conversation. After our leisurely dessert, we headed back to the Center.

May 17, 2007

Today was the first day of classes. In the afternoon we had a scavenger hunt. I teamed up with two of my classmates Mary Catey and Sarah Zijia. The list of items to find included random people, places, and things. Such as a person in a non-UP college sweatshirt, a Japanese tourist taking a picture, as many churches as possible, a statue of Mozart etc. Although the hunt was in the middle of the pouring rain, it was alot of fun. We ended the competition at the Augustiner (a brewery that use to be ran by monks). The beer was alright, but not a favorite. The group enjoyed good food, good drinks, and good company. Once back at the UP center I hung out with people for a bit but then turned in for the night.

May 16, 2007

Arrived at the UP Center today around 11am. I got settled, hung out for a bit and then headed out with a few classmates to the gardens. We had a first group dinner and meeting tonight. Nothing too exciting.

May 15, 2007:

The highlight of this day begins when I meet Sarah Z. (summer classmate, friend, and travel buddy) at her hotel. It was raining but we decided to go out for a cup of hot coco or tea in old town. Confident in my directions/navigations we headed out. Well, we somehow went the wrong direction and ended up walking in the rain for a good bit of time. We chuckled as it is moments such as getting lost in the rain that make memories. We eventually found our way back to her hotel and killed time before meeting Oggi for dinner by having hot coco at the hotel. Having trouble reaching Oggi, we headed back out into the rain, crossing town on foot to try to meet him. As it turns out we miss Oggi, much due to ill-functioning cellphones/being out of range (Oggi had lent me his spare while staying with him, so I could have a way to stay in touch). Sarah and I decided to have dinner anyway and invited Oggi to meet up with us to hang out for a bit. We ate at the Republic. It was quiet tasty. Oggi and Simon came and we all chatted for a bit. We later took Sarah back to her hotel and the rest of us went to meet a few more of Oggi's friends. We made our way to Laura's apartment and just chilled (pretty much as friends do in the US; having some random tv show on while talking about random things). A while later we decided to go out for a drink, three of us had tea and the other two had beer. After good and relaxing conversation, Laura and Stevie (we met up with him at Laura's) decided to turn in, but Oggi & Simon decided to show me what a Kebab was (during conversation the amazingness of Kebabs came up, and how I needed to have one).
Ummm, pretty much a Kebab is a tastey dish which we need to bring over to the States. A more useful description would be that a Kebab is a Turkish pita stuffed with chicken (traditionally lamb), lettuce/cabbage, tomato, and a sauce. For those of you that know what the Pita Pit is in Portland, it is similar to that but better (oh yes I said better). Wikipedia "Kebab" for more information, look specifically at doner Kebab. Anyway, after my first Kebab, we pretty much called it a night and drove Simon home before heading back to the flat.

May 14, 2007

Feeling the brunt of my cold I decided to have a day in, which killed me but was what my body needed. My day consisted of some class reading and sleeping. That evening for dinner I had some fabulous homemade chicken soup! That night I went out with Oggi to meet up with one of his friends, Simon. Simon had just returned from the States, and was starting a new job as a chef at The Republic (a trendy restaurants/bar/concert facility). He is an interesting person to talk to and seems to be a cool guy. After we all finished our drinks we headed home and called it a night.

So a few days delayed but . . . .

May 13, 2003:

An abridged version of my travel journal on my walk to Germany

My walk to Germany did not take long, maybe an 1.5hrs with a .5hr for wondering. The night before my journey I told my host family of my plan and they looked at me a bit funny. Oggi asked me why I wanted to walk to Germany as "there is nothing over there." "Because then I can say I have walked to Germany" I explained, and then continued to explain how many people back home would probably give me the same crazy look, accompanied by an eye roll expressing 'that is such a Jo thing to do.'
I set out about 7:30am on the route Oggi had set for me the night before, and for the first time since arriving to Salzburg stuck to a map like glue. The first part was mostly neighborhoods, then a shopping center, and an Ikea warehouse. As I was walking along a car slowed down and stopped me, saying something in German. I realized she wanted directions to the airport, and she realized I didn't speak German. However, knowing vaguely where she needed to go I showed her the map and we figured out her route. I hope she made it there. . . .
Continuing on I came upon the Salzburg Casino. Now this is no ordinary Casino with flashing lights. This casino use to be a castle. As one steps into the grounds, one feels they are stepping back into time. There were large stretches of lawns, mazes of shrugs and a long driveway (the kind which allowed you to think about how important th person you were going to see was). The stone driveway rises to meet the doorway. I have to admit as I walked down the driveway I straightened up my posture imagining I was an important guest of the castle's owner, maybe a dutches wearing a brilliant full length formal . . . . After exploring the casino grounds my journey lead me down a path that had a hint of farm to it (no pun intended). The open spaces was invigorating. From farm to charming woods the trail of my journey continued. The woods lead em directly to the river separating Austria from Germany. I eventually found the bridge crossing (if you remember when you see me, you should ask me about the choice between the paths: the bushes or the street). As I crossed the bridge, I asked two corky and adorable old men to snap my picture. They were amused about my excitement in crossing over to Germany. Once on the other side of the river (Yup, the German side) I stopped and took in the scenery around me, journaling a bit. Here is what I wrote in my journal (the unabridged version):

I set out today for Germany by the means which God gave me, my two feet. I am now sitting on a rock in Germany, looking over to Austrian homes accompanied by backyard trees swaying gently with the May breeze. In the far distance, beyond the four-arched gray brick bridge that lay in the foreground of this scenic and quiet quaint view, rest the grand mountains of this land. These mountains seem to be at some sort of peace; content, not in the complacent where I am but do not want to remain here, the content that smiles genuinely from the heart for it is truly experienced life; the happiness and sorrows, toil and relief and through it all has held fast to tattered joy, but joy none the less; it is these life experiences that allows it to rest at ease with content. It this too that gives the young face ancient wisdom.
In the foreground the river floats its ripples by without a care in the world, almost as if it were lost in the beauty around it. Passing the day away by soaking in the universal rays.
The path at my feet leads down the river and bends every so slightly to stir intrigue, much like the intrigue that two lovers first find in each other. A curiosity of sorts which makes you wonder just enough to slowly step forward for a closer look, and soon you are lost in a dance and can hardly remember that first step.
But this path does not call my name, nor the town just off into the distance. Much like that mountain I am content where I am at. I will journey home now, unless sparked by adventure, discovery or curiosity. On my feet I go with God's blessing I pray.

*back to the abridged version
I ended up heading in to Germany a bit but soon turned around as I was on the outskirts of the town, and everything was closed as it was Sunday. Walking along th river back (the Austrian side) I over shot my exit, but discovered another bridge in the distance. Capturing my intrigue I followed the path in pursuit of this bridge. The bridge was small and seemed to be used for everyday crossing (on foot). On the way back to the flat I decided to take a different route, who wants to walk the same road twice? I got a bit lost, but found my way and arrived safely to the flat.

I worked on my studies a bit and then had a fabulous dinner with Oggi's family. His mom is an exceptional cook. After dinner Oggi's parents offered to take me out to the lake district, and I accepted. It was BEAUTIFUL!!! The water was so clear that you could see the reflection of the mountains. (We visited two lakes, whose names I will have to follow up with you on). On the way back we stopped by one of their family friend's houses for a visit. I love the way Austrians savor every moment of life like a slow sip of Turkish coffee (another thing to ask me about when I am back & we chat).

Ok, I think that sums up May 13th, lets see if I can get a few more done.

May 12, 2007

I was wondering the city today in search of the Kapuzinerberg (a hill/mountain, that I wanted to summit). I left the flat with a general direction in mind, but allowed myself the freedom of discovery that is the freedom in trusting one's self and allowing one to escape from chains of time. As I ventured toward my destination, I stumbled upon a market. It was Salzburg Saturday market which is full of sensational smells; breads, meats, flowers, wines, beers, sweets. As i meandered through the market I came upon a church (possibly a cathedral). The outside of this structure was impressive, but the inside was where the beauty really lied. The wide open space with many side branches stretched a lengthy distance. The ceiling hovered high above, and made one feel as though they were a mere speck of dust on the pew. The artwork around me was interesting, but the artwork above me was fascinating. Large murals covered every inch of the ceiling, and each contained elaborate colors and minute details. Near the Tabernacle was a stairway. I descended the stair way to discover another alter, and what seemed to be an underground church. Also downstairs was a room for adoration. My imagination wondered to what this space might have been used for; maybe people secretly making there way down to celebrate their faith, maybe an old church that was merely built upon, maybe . . .. After my brief exploration, I headed out (I will be back to explore this church more when I do my day of churches).

i eventually made my way across the river, just meandering the streets. As I walked down a particular street, whose name i do not know, a stairwell caught my eye. With no sign saying stay out i decided to see where it lead. Over a hundred stair steps later, I found at church. The church was small, but adequate. As I exited i noticed the steps went on further, so I decided to follow their lead. I stopped counting steps but made to the top to discover an AMAZING view of Salzburg! It was beautiful, and totally unexpected. I soon realized that I was exactly where I had set out to be, and found it amusing that my curiosity lead me to my desires. However the best part of this discovery was yet to come. I had decided to sit a bit and enjoy the panoramic view of Salzburg, while journaling my adventures. Soon after I began noon struck and . . . (i will let my journal take it from here)

It is noon and the church bells are ringing all over the city. Each unique, but all in harmony, echoing one another. The sensation overwhelms you. The sound is panoramic, some near and others far in the distance. Dong, bong, ding. . .some sound deep, slowly chiming the hour; others chime with a quick high bing. A good five minutes of bells arose form a silent mummer that is Salzburg. Slowly each bell faded away until only the chime of the birds can be heard.

After enjoying the view I explored more of the area. Turns out there is a monastery there with grounds for walking. I explored a bit before heading back down (I different route of course, way go the same way twice?). Back in the city area I stumbled upon a gathering of people and a street band. The were a blues/swing/jazz mix, and they were quiet good. I loved to see how universal music is as the music began to take over all the onlookers (myself included). Toes began to tap, heads began to bob, and there was even a bit of shoulder action. Filled with several tunes to accompany me the rest of my journey, I strolled through Salzburg. I eventually headed back to the park, and made my way through the lower half of the area.

oh..I am getting so tired, yet there is so much still to share (and i haven't even gotten to today's (5-13) adventure) I might have to cheat you all a bit and sum up highlight from the rest of today and save today's adventures for tomorrow's blogging.

Other experiences of the 12th include:
-Getting baptised by the Austrian rain, and beaming with a huge smile as I let the rain come over me (I should note that I consciously decided not to put on my rain coat, but instead enjoy the warm rain that tickling refreshed me).

-Working out at a Salzburg health club with Ogi's mom. An interesting experience.

-Watching a European music contest with Ogi's family (it was the finals and involved a competition between European countries and their best music groups)

i think that is it. . .well I am headed to bed, but tomorrow's blog will be about my adventure in walking to Germany!

Keeping U with me where ever I go! -Jo

May 11, 2007

I set out to find the UP Center from Ogi's house. I looked up basic directions on citysearch.com and wrote down basic instructions for getting there. The trek was long but enjoyable. On my way back I discovered I had taken the round-about way of getting to the school, and there was a much quicker way of getting there. As I made my way back to the flat I found Spar (the local market former UP Salzburgers talk about) and a beautiful park. I didn't explore the park much but I have decided it will make a nice place to study between classes. I wondered around a bit and walked a long the river for a while before making my way back home.

Because this was a few days ago my memory is hazy with details, sorry this one isn't more interesting.

*From my travel journal

May 10, 2007
I must jump out of chronological order and begin by saying Salzburg is awe striking. As we flew over, my eyes widened and attempted to take in all the lush vegetation and the majestic mountains. Enough can not be said about the mountains, they beam with elegance and strike admirers with a childlike wonder. Stepping off the place I could not help but stop in amazement. The childlike wonder grew into an overwhelming sensation which painted a smile on my face so large it was like I had fallen in love. I couldn't help but walk as slow as possible, many times turning around so to take it all in. I eventually made my way to the luggage claim picked up my bag and met Ogi. He was warm and welcoming. After a brief exchange of names, I had to let out the excitement contained within me and tell him how beautiful his country/city is. It surprised me when he told me that he did not much care for Salzburg, as there wasn't much to do, and that he eventually hoped to move away. It makes me wonder how many of us appreciate the beauty that is around us. As the average person been have jaded by time and the everyday in such a way they can not see the beauty that surrounds them?

Ogi's place is not far from the airport (in fact it is only about a two minute drive). He lives with his parents and younger brother in a flat. The flat has an amazing view! It is something you could put on a postcard, or a broucher attracting people to come for a stay. Upon my arrival to his flat, he handed me a key and said I was welcome to anything in the house, and to come and go as I pleased. After getting a tour of the flat and contacting people back home to ensure them I was safe in Salzburg, I headed out the door. The quick departure was based on two factors: 1. I wanted to explore and 2. I wanted to get my body set on Salzburg time and thus going out provided a method of avoiding the most desired nap.

I wasn't really sure where to go, so I just started going and kept my basic orientation about me. I wondered around and found a cemetery and thought of my Dad as he enjoy exploring cemeteries (I hope that doesn't make you sound morbid, Dad). I was impressed by how much care is poured into each grave, each having its own flower bed. Further there were no dead flowers insight, only the half dead in the trash pile. There were many people working on these flower beds (working on them as an individual in the States would their garden). After the grave yard I strolled down the main street toward the airport, with the initial intent of walking to the mountain that rest behind it, but as the main road curved I decided to curve with it as I was still getting to know the city. I walked for a good 2.5 hour, allowing myself to get lost as I had the time to find my way back home. As I was walking up to the flat, Ogi was pulling out and asked what I had been up to. I explained my day and the route I had taken. Ogi then responded by telling me there isn't much out the way I went, and offered me a ride to old town. I took him up on his offer and explored old town for a while before heading back to the flat. In total I walked over four hours straight. I relaxed the rest of the night, and went to bed quiet early.

*All writing below is from my travel journal

May 9, 2007: Portland Airport 4:43am

I arrived at the airport shortly after 3am, the airport was barren. Now through security I am sitting here at gate United E2 with my bagel and chai. I wait exhausted but full of anticipation and excitement for the trip ahead.

May 9, 2007: Chicago to Frankfort

4243 miles of land and sea. A plane full of strangers soar in the sky each in pursuit of their own destinations. The flight crew is welcoming overall, and besides the spurts of turbulence and the physical discomfort of being in a chair for so long, the flight is relaxing and peaceful.

Wow, this is happening. . . I will be stepping on forgien soil, beginning one of my ambitions. A turning of a new page in my story; what does this chapter hold? what adventures lie ahead? The answer is unknowingly simple; where my feet lead me I will follow and where my heart calls I will answer. I will dance in the light of my thoughts hopes and dreams.

I will 'seize the day' and 'what will be will be.' I will simply live my adventure. As Eleanor Roosevelt once wrote: "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience."

May 10, 2007: Frankfort Airport 6:24am
Touched down in Germany, I am officially on forgien soil. Coming off of the plane there are several instant differences that hit you. One, the smoking; anyone is free to smoke anywhere and there are cig. ads everywhere. The design of the airport is distinctly different, this one feeling more business and technology savvy (not built for comfort). The noise level is considerably lower, impart could be due to the hour, but overall people seem at peace without load of commotion. It is nice to not have constant announcements over the intercom. The business oriented feel of this airport is through and through, or maybe it is the European dress (I am in freak'n Europe!) but no matter the case jeans stick out. Oh man do I need a shower . . .

Processing alot now. It is interesting to hear/see everything in German first, English second. Taking it all in.

Oh, I met my first international traveler. I sat next to John on the plane to Frankfort John hails from Louie Ville, KY and is headed to Greece to study with a professor. It is his first time abroad too. Should have snapped a photo, I'll keep that in mind for the future.

Hey everyone! I decided to try to keep a blog of my trip so that I might share my experince this summer with each one of you. I am going to throw in a disclaimer and highlight the word try, as blogs may turn out to be only once a week and some short depending on the week. Also something to note is that I may copy my blog entry directly from my travel journal, so if some blogs have a futile attempt at poetry, or reflective thoughts, bare with them. My internet access is curently limited but in about six days or so I should be able to keep in better touch. With that said, here goes nothing . . .

Until we meet again,
-Jojo