auf dem Bodensee

This past weekend I took a break from learning Deutsch (in my workbook at least) to head to the Bodensee with Esther (meine Schwiegermutter) and Manu (ihre Nichte).  Nestled in between Switzerland, Germany and Austria, this gorgeous lake is a top summer destination for citizens of all three countries.

from here

After a quick 25-minute drive, we were over the German border and on the lake in Konstanz. 

After settling into our sleeping quarters for the night (a boat!), we enjoyed a quick apero (Martini with pretzels) on the top of the deck as we watched the sun begin to set.  

After a quick lake-side dinner, we headed to our real entertainment for the night:

a Matthias Reim concert!

This famous German singer spent 16 weeks as #1 on the German charts and is loved by young and old alike.  We had a fabulous time singing and dancing and (best of all) people watching.

After a good nights sleep being rocked back and forth by the waves, we enjoyed a typical Swiss Frühstück up on the deck: 

bread, cheese, meat and fruit

Then it was time to take Manu's boat out onto the lake!

some happy Swiss cows grazing along the route out of the harbor

While Manu and Esther happily hopped into the water for an icy-cold swim,

I was hesitant, opting instead for some lazy time in the sun.

But after awhile, I couldn't take the summer heat any longer.  

Very reluctantly, I jumped in.

After a mere 2 minutes, I was cooled off and ready to climb back onto the boat to warm back up.

Before I knew it, it was time to head back home.

back into the harbor

The weekend left me refreshed and ready to conquer more Deutsche learning on Monday!

xoxo
KK