Anne Frank

During a tour of Amsterdam’s “Grachten”, the narrow canals which transect this “Venice of the North,” our boat passed 263 Prinsengracht. The many adults and even more children lined up at this famous address had the same goal as I – to visit the place where Anne Frank went into hiding during World War II. … Continue reading Anne Frank

Stuttgart’s Green Sides-Part 2

During last fall’s sojourn in Stuttgart, I enjoyed re-visiting some cherished corners of Baden-Württemberg’s capital. Upon completion of my stroll through the Schlossgarten, I directed my steps along the Neckar River. A few miles farther north, another beautiful, man-made oasis appealed not only to this human, but also to her favorite feathered friends. Max-Eyth-Lake is … Continue reading Stuttgart’s Green Sides-Part 2

Birds of Ages

During one’s short stint on our blue planet, some days stand out because of sadness and pain, others for the joy they bring. As humans we are privileged to witness natural phenomena likely to give wing to our imagination. Colorado’s San Luis Valley with its stunning scenery happens to be the stage where, for eons, … Continue reading Birds of Ages

Colorado’s Famous Valley

A topographic map of Colorado shows several high mountain valleys. Three of them are called “parks,” from the French trappers' appellation “parques,” because of the plenitude of huntable animals reminiscent of their homeland parks in Europe which were stocked with game. They are aptly named North, Middle, and South Parks. South of South Park, a … Continue reading Colorado’s Famous Valley

Stuttgart’s Green Sides-Part 1

Renewed contact with relatives in Stuttgart in recent years has been enriching not only on a personal level, but has enabled me to combine family visits with those of natural enclaves. A few sites in particular have stolen my heart. Like a siren, they beckon me to return and like Odysseus, I am unable to … Continue reading Stuttgart’s Green Sides-Part 1