The Homeland

Sorry about missing a day, but the last two days have been a whirlwind. As we drove from Paris to Mainz, I was surprised at the emotions I felt. We crossed the border at about noon and I pulled over into the first autohof and had schnitzel mit pommes. It was amazing. From lunch until we pulled up into Mainz, I fought back tears many times. I didn't realize how much I missed Germany.

We got to Mainz and strolled down the cobblestone streets, sat at a cafe for two hours sipping on cappacinnos and talking about life. By the time we met up with Stephanie and the others from the university, the students were already starting to understand why I missed it so much. Our hosts took us to an incredible German restaurant and we sat outside in the street and dined for hours.

The next morning, this morning, we got up and drove back to the university. This time, the students went to a class where they worked on a team project with German students. As for me, I lectured about self-sacrificial leadership. By lunch, the students were ready to stay for the rest of the trip. The afternoon saw a tour of the city by current German students followed by an all-out gourmet buffet with every kind of German cuisine and live music. As we end the day, I realize that I am not the only one who thinks this place is incredible.

We made a big decision today to forgo the week in Italy and stay here in Germany. The rest of the trip will remain the same. We will stay in our friends apartment in Ketch and take day trips, including another day in Mainz and our new friends. Chat with you soon.

Chris