Familienzeit

Pete, Tante Ellie, Klaus and Ursula 

Ok, ok - I know I'm trying to make up for lost time with my random German words - "family time"...

Tomorrow we head off to Budapest via train. We have had a very full 8 days in Salzburg - filled with laughter, food and maybe also a few tears for those we say good bye to for now. 

Pete's aunt will be 91 this year; she lives in the family home (the European way) along with her daughter, Ursula and husband Klaus, and son Herbert (in an adjacent cottage on same property). There are two grandchildren (with spouses) and two great grandchildren, also living in close proximity. 

There were 11 of us gathered for a delicious meal at a well-known restaurant. Schnitzel of course - another well loved comfort! 

Despite many changes, there is still a rich sense of tradition surrounding the lives here in Salzburg. Earlier today, Pete and I walked by the high school that he, his cousins, aunt and father all attended. Not everyone in this world has the privilege of still being able to view structures that represent belonging and familiarity. 

Since my first trip overseas, this has always been the allure of Europe to me. I remember my nana referring to it as the 'old country' and I sensed the negative inference of how 'old things remain the same'. And undoubtedly when many emigrated for the bright vistas that North America offered the old ways were seen as a cumbersome anchor to be shed. These days, however, Europe can be experienced as a slower and more comfortable lifestyle and of course the tourists flock here!

Looking forward to experiencing all that Austria's neighbour, Hungary has to offer us along with the challenge of another language and currency 😊.

Apfel strudel 

Salzburger nockerl - an Austrian culinary tradition - baked sweet souffle said to represent the mountains surrounding Salzburg 😊