#bodersweier

Today was a daytrip, as we were headed out to Bodersweier, home to a good chunk of Philipp’s clan. Some of them have been operating a nursery for generations, and once upon a time, the entire street was filled with Philipp’s family members. There are fewer than there used to be, but they still run strong, as does their nursery and flower shop. I was here two years ago, where I got to meet Kurt and Gabi, when Kurt made me one of the best meals I’ve ever had. Tonight was a family gathering, and Annika and I were also invited along for the festivities.

We got into town, and Andreas, one of the family members, took us into the town of Kehl (pronounced like "kale"), on the border of Germany and across the river from Strasbourg, France. We went on a beautiful walk of the city, including walking the bridge to France, but also where the G7 summit leaders once walked.

That's right: I walked the same steps as Obama. The bridge was quite unique and a cool albeit strange design. We walked on to a wood tower with stairs so you can climb to the top to see the city.

Now, I point out that it's wood, because that thing had some sway at the top, and I cannot imagine what it would be like on the top of that thing in some wind. But I can tell you what it looks like at the top:

Absolutely incredible. We headed back to the car to dinner back at the house, but I took some more shots on the way:

Kurt had spent some time in the US as a chef, and was ready to create a feast for a dozen+ people. Kurt also had the only “real” fridge I had seen in Europe, as it was made for the US, so was about twice the size, and even had an icemaker, something unheard of in Europe. This was never more evident than when I filled my glass up halfway with ice for some Coca-Cola, and then was mercilessly mocked by the family for the remainder of the night. Ice in Europe is often sort of a one-or-two cube affair.

I also had sweet digs, as I was sleeping in a new small caravan (camper trailer) in the driveway. I always run hot when I sleep, so I was excited to feel like I was sleeping out in the cool, like the great outdoors.

Needless to say, dinner didn’t disappoint. Have you ever seen one of those renaissance painting where there’s like some fancy-schmancy king with an entire giant table full of decadent foods?

That. Exactly. Check it:

Aside from all of this (which was the main course, but one of many), we had the option to try some water buffalo steak, something I had never had. And it was tasty. But wait… there’s more!

Aside from the wine, booze, beer, schnapps and all other things drinkable (which other than a beer I abstained from, due to antibiotics) that was only the intro. After a few glasses of whatever everyone was drinking, an enormous cheese plate came out to pair with drinks.