January 6, 2010 (Sandra) The practical bus successfully brought us to/from Mainz for day #2. The temperatures are slightly warmer (-8 C) than yesterday (-11 C). The main stops today were two museums: Roman-Germanic and Ship, and two churches: Christus (evangelical) and Augustine (Roman Catholic). Other stops included a replica of a Roman stone gate next to the Rhine, outdoor skating rink, statues (whose body parts must be cold in these temperatures :)), and a delightful 'keller' (basement) restaurant where we enjoyed 'flame kucken' (pizza), and jäger schnitzel mit apfel wein und trauben saft (grape juice). The german language is penetrating my thinking. We stood on the white latitude marker. 'Schaufensterbummeling' has been enjoyable during these two days, especially in Altstadt, the old part of Mainz, where the narrow cobble-stoned walkways on either side are filled with numerous, colourful, visually appealing shops - hats, chocolate, bakery, pastries, paper, gifts and unique knick-knacks, pretzels and bratwurst, kabobs, etc. Can you see it? Can you smell it? My journal page for this day is completely full of details I long to remember and refer to in the future. I will share a few. from the German-Roman and ship museums, the two churches, and the 'schaufensterbummeling'. So much learning about the history of this part of the world. For example, Roman Catholism and Evangelical - Protestant churches reflecting slightly different theologies, The Roman Empire to the Middle Ages and the numerous artifacts surviving this time period such as buckles, warrior headgear, coins, bowls, glass, cutting tools and weapons, and Nordic and Mediterranean water travel. We enjoyed roasted meat and noodles and vegetables, prepared by Tante Karin within their warm home. A few games of chinese checkers with Dieter and Tante Karin and Nachtspeize was the perfect way of ending a wonderful day!
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