
We have seen very few German's out with their infants, toddlers or young children. I'm not sure if they just don't take their young ones out as much, or if we just haven't seen them. We have not even seen many out when shopping in the German supermarket. Landon always gets lots of attention when he is out with us, and an occasional person who is very insistent about wanting to hold him, probably because babies out in public are few and far between, and he is so cute anyway! I'm also not sure what kids drink when they are out, since water and soda are as expensive as beer and wine. I have learned to take water with us wherever we go. Some restaurants will not even serve tap water, saying their water is not good, but we have had no problem filling up our water bottles in their bathrooms! There are not any public water fountains at most places, including at major tour attractions. I don't think Germans worry much about having their minimum of 8 glasses of water a day! Most places that we've visited are also not stroller (or wheelchair) friendly. Granted, it would be difficult to make most of the castles which are built high on a hill for protection reasons, accessible, but I have been surprised at the lack of accommodations for people in wheelchairs. Speyer was the only place we have visited that is accessible for most people, and we saw several adults and younger children in wheelchairs there. There may be a school and/or work opportunities in Speyer for people with disabilities. I was surprised that the train system is difficult to access for someone with a physical disability. It was even difficult getting a stroller on and off the trains! Probably most of the places we visited would be off-limits to the public in the USA since the chances of a fall or a turned ankle while walking would be high! Fortunately, it seems that Germans are held more responsible for their own safety and can visit many places with the understanding that they could possibly be injured if they are not careful!

The autobahn has not been nearly as bad to ride on as one might think. Since at times there is no speed limit at all....one can go as fast as one wants! Since trucks have to stay in the far right lane most of the time, and passing can only be done on the left, things are pretty orderly and Germans seem to be a lot more courteous drivers. I have only seen two accidents in the time I have been here on the autobahn. Truckers have strict regulations about how fast they can go (not as fast as cars), how many hours they can drive at one time before taking a break, and the total driving time for the day. Truckers also do not drive on Sundays. Even though the people of Germany are not nearly as religious as they once were, most stores and restaurants are closed on Sundays as well. Germans also celebrate many national holidays that are religious holidays, including the feast of Christ the King, and Good Friday.
One thing I have not seen at all are any dead animals on the road. There is an overpass for animals not far from Amber and Nate. Apparently all of the deer got (and read!) the memo about crossing the roads safely! Since most of the autobahn (at least the parts that we have been on) are bordered by woods, you would think there would be an occasional dead animal on the road since traffic moves so fast, but not so! I'm also not sure where all of the cattle and pigs are that are used in German meals, since none have been visible from the roads we have travelled. The animals stay well hidden!
Another thing I have not seen while driving along the autobahn, or while traipsing through the woods is litter! There is no trash along the roads or paths. Germans seem to be much better about keeping things clean than Americans do. There doesn't seem to be any need here to have a 'Keep Germany Beautiful' day in order to pick up trash. I don't know if the fines here are high for littering, or if Germans just take more pride in the land they live on, but one can enjoy the natural beauty here without having to look past the trash. Even the rest stops are relatively litter free! Trash is actually put in a trash can, and not allowed to overflow onto the sidewalks.
I have enjoyed my time in Germany, especially spending time with the family. It will be hard to leave, but no matter how far away the Kahle's are, they are only a phone call away...and thank goodness for Skype! There are many things I really like about Germany, but it will be great to be back in the states where ice and water are plentiful and Target is only a short drive away! I still may have a chance of stowing Landon away in my suitcase....getting past parent security could be a different issue, however!
3 comments:
WOW!! What a wonderful visit you had grandma Joyce!! I know your family enjoyed seeing you and what a beautiful baby boy Landon is!! God bless you all!!
Love Ya,
Sherri
He's gotten so big! I love seeing pictures of my friend's kiddos growing up. That animal crossing thing seems to work-I wonder if it would be the same here?? Interesting blog, Joyce!
Caitlin
Figured since you always leave a comment on my posts I would leave a comment on yours.....makes you feel good doesn't it! So glad you got to spend so much time with us- it was sooo nice having you around! Can't wait till we live closer :) love you mom!
Amber
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