trying to shake whatever curse we picked up as we crossed the bridge on our way into the city

On the day we headed out for parts west on the Deutsche Alpenstrasse we did not intend to encounter a detour for experienced hikers on our brief stop to check out a gorge. But we did.

Since it was in English, we should have known they were not kidding.

Because I had not planned to hike such a trail, I was unprepared for the amused glances at my feet when I happened upon 3 German super-hikers who found my choice of chaco sandals most unsuitable. In my defense, I was heading back to the trailhead at the time I encountered them and not forging ahead in a fool-hardy way.

The sandals were fine for the monastery at Ettal where we sniffed fragrant roses and looked at beautiful art work. They also were perfect for sitting in comfort under a tree, while feasting on a slice of an apple concoction (whose name escapes me at this moment), at the Konditorei we found in Oberammergau.

We were enchanted by Oberammergau.

In addition to amazing geraniums, they had bird feeder houses that I want Chris to try and make. He likes it when I find projects for him. They also had the perfect hat for me. Which is saying a lot.

Sister did not have them ship home this super cool giant wooden owl. But wouldn't you want to have one if you could?

We forged on towards Lake Bodensee. Along the way we made wrong turns, it was hot, and there were detours because of road construction. Lindau (an island on the lake), was crowded, we struck out at the place we were planning to have early dinner, and we found out later we got a parking ticket as we failed to use some kind of a machine to pay for parking?

We laughed in the face of these unfortunate events. Later. At the time we were irritated. Did I mention we ended up eating a hot dog at a stand some place on the way home where three men were laughing at us as we ordered? And no, it was not a good hot dog. And I burned the roof of my mouth.

I only mention these things because they are a part of the EXPERIENCE. And isn't it true that these are the sorts of things that make the BEST stories for later? I took this photo as we beat it out of Lindau, trying to shake whatever curse we picked up as we crossed the bridge on our way into the city.

P.S. go here to read Sister's version of this day.