Our first weekend "across the pond"

Our first weekend that we didn't feel like zombies at least. On Saturday, Wolfgang (my friend and manager at work) brought his kids to play at a park in Bad Schönborn (the city where we're staying). We walked about 20 minutes along agricultural roads to a small "zoo" -- really a bunch of spoiled farm animals on display for the kids. The kids loved seeing the horses, sheep, goats and even a little village of bunnies. There was also a playground that the kids went nuts on.

Saturday evening we had company. It seems another member of my team at work married a Brazilian! Thomas, Luciana and their kids João and Joana came by. We had a great time watching the kids play and drinking a few beers (how else are you supposed to entertain in Germany?).

Sunday we met up with Wolfgang again. This time the entire family was in tow. We all headed out to a beautiful park in Mannheim. Among other things, we saw parrots flying wild and a good size flock of flamingos. Who knew?

Sunday evening it was back to Thomas and Luciana's house to help send a friend off to Brazil. Thomas has a killer veranda that I hope will be the site of many raucous churrascos (barbeques) this summer!

Before we met with Wolfgang, we went driving around Heidelberg and happened upon a really nice Italian restaurant. Europe seems to suit the kids as their table manners have rarely been so on point (especially Emily). Just a coincidence? Only time will tell.