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.