Christmas in Koblenz

Just returned to Amstelveen from a week's escape for Christmas in Koblenz, Germany with Josy's brother Marnix, his wife Lucy and their daughters Helene (7) and Lizzie (2).

Koblenz is located at the junction of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. A bit foggy and overcast for most of our visit but that just added to the atmosphere, somehow. Great chance to catch up and let the kids run each other ragged. We're finding that anytime we can just sit back and let the kids entertain themselves is so relaxing.

Our hotel overlooked the Rhine, with its frequent barge and cruise boat traffic, a view across the water to a castle in the old part of Koblenz and close proximity to a railway where passenger and freight trains whizzed by at breakneck speed. The pool downstairs provided additional fun. Was nice to see the kids becoming more comfortable in the water with every passing day.

If you're feeling brave, feel free to check out our short picture-movie.

Took a few trips up each river by car and train, taking tours of various castles that perch along strategic vistas every couple miles. Amazing to see such historic and fairy tale-like structures just around the bend from one another, with all the frequency and visibility of...well, what would compare in the States...a Starbucks? A Farbucks?

Now trying to plan our next get-together with Marnix and family, who are only staying in Berlin until June. Time flies. Hard to believe we've already been here four months...