Münsinger Ochsenrennen

We went to the Ox races today.  Really.

Every four years the small town of Münsing, a little ways down the lake from us hosts ox races. Our friends the Sturgills went last time and told us we couldn't miss it this time. So we dragged the girls out of the house and we were off to the races.

Steve, Kip, Kristin & Missy

It is set up in a big giant field with a "race course" about 200m long. There are several races, most ending with the ox being prodded or cajoled across the finish line. Every once in a while there was a great run.

There were lots of people enjoying a bright, sunshine filled day and having fun. As with any event in Bavaria there was plenty of bier and of course a tent setup for food and drink afterwards. Any excuse for a party!

First Day of School 2016

And they're back! As of this morning everyone is back in school!  Dominic started a week ago but AJ, Stefanie and Rachel all started today.

Rachel & Stefanie

Dominic is in his third year at the United States Military Academy.

AJ is a sophomore at Bowling Green State University.

Stefanie is a SENIOR in high school - big year for her!

Rachel is a sophomore in high school.

Dominic's Affirmation

Dominic

At the start of their third year cadets at West Point affirm their oath to serve their country. In short they commit to the US Army for the next 10 years: 2 more years of school, 5 years active duty and 3 years in the reserves.

Dominic's company - G-1 (He's in the center, front row)

This is a big commitment and not one many 20 year olds across our country are willing to make. We are very proud of him and continue to support him in his quest to serve our country.

Cadets in their third year are called "Cows". We thought cow
cake pops was a good way to show our support!

Biking to Andechs

Rachel & Stefanie

We had to document this day with a few photos. We convinced Stefanie and Rachel to ride their bikes to Andechs with us.  Stef's boyfriend Joe also came along. The bike ride is about 8 miles each way and a little hilly.

Rachel

Stef & Joe

Andechs is one of our favorite places, it's actually Steve's favorite place here in Germany. It's a monastery that has been brewing its own beer for over 700 years. It has a beautiful church, great views, yummy food and a fun Bavarian atmosphere. We go often.

Steve & Missy

So when we suggested a Sunday hike, the girls said let's just go to Andechs. And Steve said great, but we'll bike. The girls weren't completely thrilled but they agreed. They did a great job and going home was a little tough but they made it!

Where was AJ all summer?

AJ

AJ has been missing from many of our summer activities this year. But he had a good reason, he had a great summer job, especially for someone who wants to be a middle school teacher. AJ was a camp counselor at Camp Barton, a boy scout camp in Ithaca, NY.

AJ lived at camp and worked as a life guard and swimming and canoeing merit badge counselor. It was a great solution to the summer job dilemma since it provided him with a place to live and he didn't need a car. Plus, a summer on Cayuga Lake does not suck.

Lifeguards - AJ is first on the left

He made some great friends, had a fun summer on the lake and we still got to see him during the weeks we were in Ithaca. He had one night and one day off per week. The weeks we weren't there, his cousin or uncle claimed him from camp so he could spend time relaxing at Grandma's house. That of course was awesome for him!!