On the 28th, our group set out to a day of exploration in Luzern, Switzerland. This is yet again an old European city that was built in 800 AD. Because of its old origin, it was obviously built along a river that once transported royals, military, or goods. I always see pictures of old cities and wonder if they actually exist or if it is just a small part of town. I now know these cities really are out there and are fully functional in the 21st century. Pretty awesome.

We had the whole day to roam around as we please to visit shops and observe. I took this opportunity to branch away from the group and really see Luzern as much as I could. The day was rainy and dreary, but the thrill of shopping on cobblestone streets in Europe made the day wonderful.

I first walked across an old bridge over the water with stories from years past. On the water were flocks of beautiful swans and tour boats.



 
We then branched off to have lunch at a this great café and ordered the dish that I would order if I were to die tomorrow. Pasta with salmon in a tomato basil sauce and fresh mozzarella. I was near passing out it was so heavenly.

After that, I strolled the streets and shops in the rain. I spent 90% of the time telling myself that I didn’t need that gorgeous watch or that I can buy a similar dress in the US, and the other 10% of the time buying chocolate for other people. I ended up not buying a single thing for myself besides food (I love food.)


At about 3:00 p.m. I made my way over to the train station where my parents were going to pick me up at 3:30 ish. Before I say more, you have to know that my family really doesn’t like to plan things out too much and likes to live life on the fly. Here is how the rest of the day proceeded . . .

3:30 – The group joins me and helps me look for my parents in passing cars.
3:40 – We decide this is fun a fun game to wait for my parents! All smiles!

4:00 – I conquer that people watching at train stations in Europe is like people watching at the State Fair in Minnesota.
4:30 – I spot a car that looks like It could be them, shout their name, and get a strange look and choice words in German.
4:31 – Freak out because I learn there are birds inside this train station.

5:00 - Group left and I am now getting a tad worried my rents may not show up.
5:15 – Skype Sarah and Lana in a frantic worry.
5:33 – Get whistled at, thought it was just some Swiss dude getting fresh with me. It was my dad wearing his Raylore Farm jacket and hat. Oh dad, he is walking billboard.
5:34 – I run to my mom and dad, with all smiles! They are driving a black Nissan Note, a Euro trendy car.
5:35 – Figure out my parents do not like European roads, traffic and other drivers.
6:00 – Loren and Laura have officially arrived when I hear my mom say, “Oh dear, get the picture of the swans on the water! Did you get it?! Did you?!”

Once we got our bearings straight, we were en route to Mainfeld to visit the Zindel’s. This was my mom’s first encounter with Swiss mountain roads.  White knuckles and increased blood pressure. 

Once arriving at Zindel’s farm, my dad went crazy when he saw Holsteins. He then asked a hundred questions in loud English to both Jureg and his father. Went out to eat quickly and visited for longer than we should have! Thank you again to the Zindels! ☺



After goodbyes and by 11:00 p.m., we were on our way to take on another country. France. Please pray for us!