It amazes me that my mom was born in Germany – that my grandma lived her whole childhood there – that we have wonderful family that still lives there. I was so happy to be able to go and spend time with my mom’s uncle, aunts, and cousins.
Schwadderer Garden Party
Since we’ve been back from our trip, I’ve been asked which place I liked the best. It’s kind of an impossible question to answer, because I love seeing ALL new places – near and far. There is just so much beauty in the world… and so much amazement to be had in discovering new things.
- Ensingen Vineyard
Grapes in the Vineyard
So I can’t pick a favorite place. I can tell you, though, that being with my relatives, who I barely knew, was one of the most special traveling experiences I’ve ever had.
Ensingen
Spending time with my grandma’s family was a little like sharing a piece of her. I saw her smile in my great uncle, Rolf’s, eyes; I heard her thick accent all around me.
Uncle Rolf and Auntie Hulda
The House My Grandma Grew Up In
It came as a surprise that I would end up in tears over having to leave people I’d not even known only 72 hours earlier. And now I know that I must make another trip – hopefully with my mom, sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins- to learn more about our history and our family.
How special Erin, that you have had this experience & memories to keep forever! I have goose bumps just reading your post, I can tell how much this visit meant to you.