Schwangau and Neuschwanstein

Being the sentimentalist we all know Mike is, this was his absolute favorite part of all of our Kaylee journeys. We were on our way to Italy and Mike mapped out a route to take us pass the Neuschwanstein castle that many know as the Sleeping Beauty castle. The castle is in a tiny town in southern Germany. The drive there was completely breathtaking and when we pulled off of the exit to head to the castle we heard an incredible sound:

The video quality is terrible, but you got it: Cowbells! These cows were roaming around the fields with the biggest cowbells you've ever seen.

This one looked like the Ol' Grandma Bossy of the group.

While we were driving toward Neuschwanstein, this castle caught us by surprise. Oh Germany, you and your many random castles.

Then we made it to the...

While we were searching for a parking spot we passed a spontaneous parade of 12 Ferraris followed by a classic Rolls Royce. Of course, we weren't quick enough to the draw to take a picture, but it was quite amazing. I took the opportunity to make fun of Mike for being so amazed at a bunch of cars.

Then, there she was, ol' Sleeping Beauty herself. We didn't quite get those aerial view pictures you see online, but it was still quite a castle.

It had been quite some time since Mike had been with his two favorite gals.

Schwetzingen part 2

The gardens themselves were amazing, but we especially loved the bridges, birdhouses, and animals. We could have wandered around these gardens for days.

Mike trying to become one with the geese. As you can tell, they weren't buying it.

This little guy was a little more interested in us than Mike's geese.

Schwetzingen part 1

One of our favorite places we visited near Heidelberg was a quaint old town called Schwetzingen with a rococo castle and acres and acres of gardens. 

The Womens World Cup Game!

I know it's log past, but it's time we finish our posts about Kaylee's visit. 

One of the things we were most excited about was the USA vs. Columbia women's World Cup game. It was really fun to be at the game and to cheer on our gals to their 3-0 win.

Mike thought it would he go help out the Colombian fans.

Kaylee and the Castles...

When Kaylee first got here, Mike was still in school. So, whenever Mike had a break, we headed off to a neighboring castle or hung out in Heidelberg.

The first castle trip we made was to Auerbach and to the Frankenstein Castle.

In Heidelberg, we limited ourselves at first since Mike's parents were coming a couple of weeks later, but we went to the old bridge (Alte Brücke), had a picnic, and got attacked by swans.

 We also found time for some Gelato

 and for Kaylee to look cute, fashioning her fancy outfits.

But much more fun was yet to come!

When little Kaylee came to visit.

We had lots of fun with Kaylee here! 

The full trip coming soon.

You know you're in Germany when...

...there is a Hot Dog (Bratwurst) vending machine at the train station. Without any buns.

That's right! Just a steamy "fresh" bratwurst in a bag!