A Letter To Helen

I cannot tell you how proud I am of you.  Mere words do not express my depth of appreciation.  I look at all you can accomplish when you set your mind to something.  You are truly beautiful  inside and out.
Your determination is something that most people will never understand. 
When you set your mind on the golf team you put your heart into it and not only made the team but became its heart.
Your heart is big, you have empathy for mankind.  Your friends have all been the recipient of your kindness. 
And, I have too. Though we give each other a hard time, your love is apparent in your actions.  I am one lucky dad.
There is an old saying, "Pray for the father of daughters".  One day you might understand that. 
But, I do not feel that anyone should feel for me.  Thank You.
When you realize that your children are good people then the rest of your life is easy, since you were born my life has been easy. 
LOVE YOU

Vienna Day 3

Day 3.  By far the most active.  We started back at Hofburg Palace at the Spanish Riding School.  We went to the morning exercises which is of course included in the Vienna pass. Even if we did not see a full show, the exercises were well worth the time.  

we then crossed over in to the national treasury.  Astounding.  Once again looking at the crowns and jewels, tapestries, reliqueries is overwhelming at the wealth.

It took several hours to visit.

Next on our agenda was the Belvedere Palace.  Once a private residence and now a UNESCO heritage site.  A quick trip on the hop on hop off took us directly to the upper museum.  The main goal of  the day was the viewing of the Klimpt exhibition.,  

A quick trip back to the apartment, change of clothes, then a light meal.  We headed into the Vienna State Opera house.  Tonights performance is Falstaff directed by Zubin Mehta.  The only complaint of the day.  IT WAS SO DAMN HOT IN THE OPERA.  But, that is all. 

Heading to Schonbrunn tomorrow.  

Vienna Day 2

Wow Day 2 was full of wonders.  Started out at the Albertina museum.  A must see for any art lover.  I do appreciate art, but after a while it all looks the same to me. I just appreciate how old they are, and quite honestly I do not get some of them (Picasso).  Anyway, enough of my cultural failures. 

after the Albertina we walked down to view  the Stae room at the Bibliotech.  Now this is something to appreciate.  Absolutely gorgeous, awe inspiring.  The room itself is overwhelming, then you see the displays of 500 year old books and rare manuscripts, breathtaking. 

We walked around the  corner and entered the Silver collection and dinner displays.  My head was spinning by the time we left.  I have never seen so much silver and dinnerware.  It was just amazing.  I found out through a guide I was eves dropping on that it is still used for official state functions.

the next move was into the Sissi museum.  Giving a glimpse into the sad life of one of the most intriguing individuals.   After leaving these quarters we stepped into the staterooms of the family.  I cannot imagine living in such splendor. 

Using the Vienna pas was the best idea, everything was already paid and we went straight in .

After dinner we walked over to another Christmas market.  Gluehweine and hot Aperol cocktails were in store for me.  

This is a great time to visit.  Yes, it can be a little cold.  But, seeing all of the decorations and Christmas markets is well worth the cold.