Two Love Letters- Addressed to Dresden and Stephanie
Dear Dresden,
We love you sooooo much! Thank you for your architecture, your open courtyards, and your sunsets. Your past is what we are stunned with the most. Like a Phoenix, you have literally risen from ashes. Having been bombed during WWII, not a lot of you remained. Over the many, many years, the burnt stone from your rubble has been repurposed to make such breathtaking castles and churches once more.
While the burnt stone and new stone give leave a haunting reminder of the past, your copper roofs and Zwinger gardens romanced us all. Stefanie took Jamie and I to your old quarters, where we discovered the beautiful crypts of your church and the long terrace by the river. We drank summery cocktails and listened to musicians that played in the middle of the plaza.
In the new town district, we went to what is voted as “the most beautiful dairy store in the world” had had wine and cheese. We discovered an art walk, where the sides of buildings became artistic installations. Pipes and drains sat on the side of one home, and when it rains, supposedly creates music. Stone and ceramic safari animals look like they are eating another building, while an alley depicts a mosaic under-the-sea scene. In this alley way we had modern German food that was definitely something to write home about. Thank you, for some of the best salty KaseSpatzle!
Lastly, we enjoyed seeing all of your stores with hand carved nutcrackers and painted porcelain. We are dazzled by you, and look forward to our return.
Love always, Katherine and Jamie
Dear Stephanie,
We love you equally! Though the city life, castle ruins, and beer gardens were enough to make Germany special to us, it was your time with your family and friends that we will cherish the most. We loved walking through the winding streets of your village, Schochwitz, standing amongst the vegetables of your garden, and tasting the wine of the region. I remember fondly taking a bath every evening, looking out your window, listening to the bells of the neighboring church spire toll the hour. The fact that the church was built in the 1200’s made it strike that warm “awe” within my soul.
Your aunt and uncle were wonderful to get to know, and your friends held the same kind nature we know from you. We talked to your mother with the universal language of animated arms and photo books — her energy was enjoyable to be around, and her home so comfortable and welcoming. Between getting driving in the firetruck, having a family cookout, and playing cards, we felt at home.
We look forward to being once more at your doorstep.
Love always, Katherine and Jamie (your travel crew from Southeast Asia)
