Mayen and the White Shepherds

Last time we were in Germany, we stumbled (by complete accident) across White Paradise (http://www.white-paradise.de/) near Mayen, in the Eifel.

White German Shepherd breeders! What started off as just a little curious look-see, turned out to be the beginning of a wonderful friendship between the breeders, us and seven furry Shep's.

Almost two years later, with regular communication and we were back at their house by invitation to stay the night! A wonderful evening catching up, snuggling with the dogs followed by a sightseeing tour of beautiful Mayen - the Genovevaburg, St. Clemens Parish Church (with a twisted spire) and of course - the Eisdiele (icecreamery) :-) .... always a must-do in every town we visit.

Maria Laach

A random stop on the way to see our friends turned into a little adventure and some new sights when we decided to check out Kloster Maria Laach. This is a Benedictine Abbey Monastery located on the Laacher See (Laach Lake) in the Eifel region and was first founded in 1093!

Luckily for us, there was Christmas service so the whole area was brimming with people and you hear the singing already from the parking lot. A nice way to spend an hour, even if you do not attend the service - the surroundings are beautiful with the forest on one side and the lake on the other and there is even a visitor center with gift shop that is open during the Summer.

http://www.maria-laach.de/ (also option for English translation)

Christmas 2012

Christmas time in Germany is always a beautiful event. Unfortunately no snow this year, but the main thing was being with loved ones and we were fortunate enough to spend it with Mum and Omi.

Baileys! Mum's favorite