This is our last day in Germany, we fly out tomorrow morning. We spent our last day paying our respects to Wagner and Liszt. Or, that was the plan. Bayreuth is just up the road about 40 miles or so. We left early to beat the traffic.
Bayreuth is an interesting place. It was almost eerie. There is this facade that is the classic "Classic German Village," but it is all so sterile and plain. But if you look down the side streets you see all kids of graffiti and seedy looking adult-type emporiums. It was very disconcerting. We only had a limited amount of time, so we tried to find the famous opera house that Wagner built, but managed to walk around it several times. Don't get me wrong, it is a very pretty place, but just strange. I'll leave the museums and things for the next trip.
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So what have we learned, now that we are at the end of journey number two:
1) The Hungarian people are as fiercely proud and independent as always.
2) Driving on the Autobahn is a lot of fun, but after paying the gas bill, probably not worth the thrill.
3) The Bavarian people are as wonderful and full of Gemulichite as they say, just be careful of them when they get behind the wheel.
4) Some of the most beautiful buildings in the world are here - I don't care what anybody says.
5) These folks really know how to throw a party!
6) Portland claims to be Beervana, but Bavaria is just as good.
7) My family are the greatest people anywhere, and I love them.
8) My wife is the most wonderful person on the planet, and I thank her for once again showing me her world.
And so, once again we are finished. Thanks to Kazi and Zzusza, Gabor and Kis-Kazi for showing me the most beautiful city I have ever seen. Thanks to Peter and Vera for sharing their home, their country and their love. Thanks to Kyra for being the daughter I never had, and Jaden for being the best Granddaughter I do have (don't tell her she is the only one), and for showing me such a great time in Germany. Thanks to all of the army wives who provided conversation and transportation. And most of all, thanks to my wife, Zia, for once again sharing her home and family with me. I am a better guy for all of these people.
So, back to the USA, just in time to relive the whole thing. If you are free, Z Musikmakers will be in Sandy for Oktoberfest on the first Saturday in September and Mt. Angel the second Thursday through Sunday. Come on by, and I'll show you what I learned!
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