Heidelberg / Strasbourg

So we ended up driving an hour to Heidelberg, Germany on Thursday. The town has the oldest University in Germany. Did the "philosopher's walk" along a steep trail up a hill that looked over the city, then down across the Heidelberg bridge and into the city. Had Italian food for lunch out on a sidewalk cafe. Then toured the Heidelberg castle- it was built in the early 1400's, survived 2 wars and being hit by a lightning bolt. Beautiful castle (pictures below)! Then mom & I did some shopping while the boys went to a pub. Loved the city, it was old and charming and made me want to watch all of my Harry Potter movies. Headed back to k-town around 5, then lived out a typical night for Ben in his hometown: went to one of his favorite Indian restaurant's "Himalaya" then came home & watched "Blades of Glory"...successful day! Here are some pictures:

Mom & I on the Heidelberg bridge

View from the top of the castle of the whole city:

Ben & I outside the Heidelberg Castle.

Yesterday we went to Strasbourg, France. About an Hour and half drive southwest of Ben's house. Got to the city about noon, wandered around looking for the tourist center, it started raining so we gave up and ate lunch at an AMAZING tapas bar (my new favorite kind of food- not be confused with a "topless bar", watch the accent). Then we walked to the Strasbourg Cathedral. Stands 426 feet tall, was built over a period of 200 years starting in 1211. Beautiful building, amazing stain glass and statues. here is a picture of us in front of it:

Left the cathedral, walked to a nearby cafe and people-watched for about an hour. Just as entertaining here as it is in America.. Eavesdropping, not so much- language barrier. Then we walked around & shopped some more.. I think if dad and ben have to wait outside another H&M or Zara there might be a revolt. Then we ate dinner at a very authentic French restaurant. I decided to spare you all pictures of the food, is there anything worse than people posting pictures of food you can't eat? Just know there was salmon, goat cheese, and the best white wine u've ever tasted involved.

Today we are headed to Trier, Germany. Our last trip before heading home Sunday.