Postcards from....

One of the great things about having our girls in the International Schools here in Geneva is the abundance of breaks allowing families to go on "holiday" several times throughout the year.  So off we went to Austria a few days ago, with an overnight in Zurich; a drive-thru Lichenstein (the 6th smallest country in the world at 62 square miles); and, yes, a visit to another castle......

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is well known as one of the wealthiest cities in Europe.  However, I found it to feel very much like a smaller scale, more laid back version of Geneva...... with a beautiful lake, an old town village full of quaint boutiques and cafes, and a reserved, yet friendly atmosphere.  My guy couldn't resist the urge to jump on a boat for a spin around the lake on such a beautiful day and we all got a great chuckle when we saw folks swimming in the 70 degree weather (in the nude).... thankfully I didn't have my zoom lense! :)  

Innsbruck was a real treat as well.  It is a city best known for hosting two Olympic games, Swarovski crystals, Mozart, and magical views of the Alps.  However, as a lover of the "Sound of Music", I was most intrigued with the Trapp family home....... I could have stood and peered in those gates dreaming about Leisl and Rolfe dancing around the garden and singing "I am 16 going on 17"all day.  The home is still owned by the Trapp family today..... can you just imagine?!.... if only I could have gone in!

And, finally, I lied!  I said we weren't going to castles for a while...... but  we found out that we were so close to the Neuschwanstein Castle that we "had" to take the opportunity to go..... and, was it worth it?  YES, ma'am!!!  Even looking at these photos now, I can't believe I actually took them.... Let's just say I completely understand how it inspired Walt Disney to create the Magic Kingdom...... the pure definition of breathtaking!

All of this beauty must have put a shock to the system, because when we returned my oldest daughter and I promptly fell ill and have been cooped up in the house ever since.  Thankfully, we are feeling much better today and are detoxing the house to get ready for our next houseguest tomorrow.

Here's wishing you some magic in your weekend wherever you are!