We are home
After a restless night in Frankfurt, we were up early and
walked across the sky bridge from the Frankfurt Airport Sheraton to the
airport to catch our Lufthansa non-stop to Portland, Oregon.
By the way: we showed our "ticket" from the fare inspector (see my post from
last night) to the clerk at the hotel. She said we were scammed because he
did not take our address/information. She said if you do not have the cash
to pay the fine, a bill is sent to your house, just like a parking ticket.
That 25 Euros went into his pocket. Slime ball.
Just as well, this way we didn't have to worry about being arrested by
Interpol as we went through immigration and will be welcomed back to Germany
(should we ever need to go again).
Our flight was quite pleasant. Smooth sailing up over the United Kingdom to
Greenland and across Canada. Champagne was flowing and we both caught a
little sleep. Customs and Immigration in Portland was a breeze and we were
headed back to our house less than thirty minutes after landing.
Our deck is not finished. As a matter of fact, DT doesn't think any work has
been completed on the deck since we have left. I can't tell for sure, as it
has been raining and the deck is wet and kinda all looks the same color.
(There is a huge pile of raccoon poop right in the middle of the deck
though, so someone did a little work on our deck!)
Our house is in great shape, thanks to our great housesitter:
9 days mail
In conclusion, it was a great trip. Our hotel was lovely.
Convenient to the subway that went straight to Olympic Stadium, and
surrounded by hundreds of Wiener Schnitzel-serving restaurants. Berlin is a
fine city too - very walkable - and one of the cleanest cities we have ever
visited. No litter. No beggars. Not too much graffiti in the
tourist/downtown areas. Lisa said the entire city needs a good pressure
wash, and I agree, but all-in-all a very enjoyable town. I cannot tell you
how green Berlin is too - parks are everywhere and trees are everywhere.
Everything is recycled too!
The games were magnificent. Three World Records! We are especially proud of
our Duck athletes. Young yes, but they now have the experience of competing
in a huge international championship. Next time! The competition was
well-organized, and though there were several controversies (as usual), the
athletes shined.
With a few notable exceptions.
Berlin Olympic Stadium is simply beautiful. It is so renovated and changed,
it is hard to even imagine Adolf Hitler in the arena. But Berlin doesn't
hide her ugly past - historical displays are scattered throughout the
stadium telling the history.
Of course, it was just fantastic that our dear girl was able to join us (for
18 hours) in Berlin and that we were able to spend so much time with our
friends and fellow track-nuts while in Germany... and of course, it is so
nice to be home!
Until my next update, I remain, your American correspondent.