I am home safely.
On Saturday, I had the opportunity to harvest grapes the old-fashioned way, by hand, with local Freinsheimers. Then, on Monday morning, just as my suitcases were being loaded into the car, the local Die Rheinpfalz newspaper arrived at Barbel’s door. And there I appeared, in the local news section, page 2.
“Search for roots leads to vineyard: In the city vineyard, American author from Seattle assists in her grape harvest debut ” etc. etc. and a few paragraphs later, the following text:
“Making her debut at the grape harvest was Claire Gebben from Seattle, USA. The author is currently visiting the Palatinate to research about her Freinsheimer ancestors. She thought harvesting grapes was a best opportunity to learn more about Palatinate culture.
‘All along, I was hoping I could join in on something like this,’ enthused the 53-year-old.”
I was thrilled and honored.
Unfortunately, the news back home is tragic. I’ve so diligently posted on this blog every day in part for the benefit of my 89-year-old aunt, Elizabeth Lindsey, so she could share in my journey through Germany. Last Wednesday, however, Elizabeth fell, hit her head, and required surgery. She is in a coma, and fading fast. Please keep her, me and family and friends in your hearts and prayers.
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