River cruising is not all fun and games, you know. There’s some serious sightseeing to be done and even though the crew does their utmost to take care of your every need, they will not do your sightseeing for you. So, we charged up the cameras and iphones, put on our ugliest comfort shoes and enough sunblock to make us look like lifeguards from the 70s and took to the streets (or, sometimes, just the upper deck. Still with the ugly shoes on.)
If you’re a dedicated armchair traveler (or just a light-weight masochist), I have many, many photos to share with you. But not here because I’d like to keep the two readers I still have. Here are a few highlights, with captions. (If I take a few liberties with historical or geographical facts, it’s my right as a writer (righter?).)
But, wait! There’s more! This little work of art deserves special attention:
The sculptor of this bas relief of The Immaculate Conception (which can be found ‘hiding’ on the outside rear of a church in Wurzburg) tried very hard to explain one of the mysteries of the Catholic faith. Of course Mary, in all her humility, is shown receiving the news that she is about to become the Mother of God from the Angel Gabriel. So far, so good. Above them sits God the Father, looking all ‘wisdom-ey’ and holding on to what looks like a long tube. Wait – it IS a long tube! And it goes from God’s beard directly into Mary’s ear! So, at first glance, you think “Okay, she’s ‘hearing’ this incredible piece of news from God himself and the artist really wants to drive the point home.” But! Look carefully as the tube snakes its way to Mary’s ear and you will see a tiny baby – yes! It’s the baby Jesus! So, THAT’S how immaculate conception happens! Thank you, German artist, for your fine explanation of this magnificent mystery.
OK with the shoes, but where are the pants?
…and all these years I’ve been trying to make a baby the “other ” way.
Sister, I love all the pictures and your hilarious comments. You are too funny! Gosh, you look about 16 years old and very happy and healthy in the pretzel making picture! What a great trip you are having.
I know a better story of Gabriel, a young angel, telling young Mary about her baby that I will tell you if you ever get back to SD!!
No way.
So much for the immaculate stork explanation I was reared with. Thanks. Thanks a lot. Think I need a beer.
Was prince fatty pants happy with his depiction? By the way, father Kline during our sex ed one hour talk in grade school never mentioned the beard tube!
Continue to enjoy following you and Roger on your amazing trip. Steve and I experienced the lock scene last fall on the Danube, but I must admit, I took so much for granted. Figured it wasn’t their first Rodeo. Again, you have enlightened me. Look forward to more of your adventure.
Jane
Loving your blog Elaine, now that we are home to reminisce, thanks for the mention Chicago!!
Loving your blog, home now and reminiscing so bringing it all back. Thanks for the kind mention, see you in Australia one day for dinner???!!!