Normandy, France

There are many holidays in Germany throughout the year, but May has the most this year!  Last week, we celebrated Ascension Day.  This time we spent a long weekend in the Normandy region of northern France.  The beaches in Normandy are famous for the D-day invasions of WWII when the Allies invaded the Nazis in France to take over the war.  We have learnrd so much about WWII history while living here.  And, watching movies is very educational and memorable, but stepping on the soil where the battle was fought and touring the area was an unforgettable experience!  Before we went, we watched "The Longest Day" movie.  We were happy we saw it because it helped us better understand our D-day tour.

Pont du Hoc - cliff the soldiers climbed during the D-day invasion.

 Pont du Hoc Memorial

Jack running through a crater which was caused by a bomb

 Bunker at Pont du Hoc

 Memorial at Omaha Beach

 Underground bunker and the view of Omaha beach.  Sadly this beach had the highest number of casualties when the Allied soldiers invaded on June 6, 1944.

 Normandy American Military Cemetery where over 9,000 soldiers were laid to rest after their courageous fight in Normandy.  I felt speechless at times walking through this beautiful cemetery.
It is such a peaceful place along the ocean, overlooking Omaha beach.  

We also went to see the famous Mont St. Michel which dates back to 708.  A Bishop of Avranches built this sanctuary in honor of the Archangel Michael.  And by the 10th century, the Abbey at the top was used by the Benedictines.  It is still used today as we saw priests active in service while we were there.  

Mont St. Michel was built on a mountain island on the northwest coast of France.  At certain times of the year and at high tide, the whole island is surrounded by water.

 This is the French Manoir that we stayed at while we visited Normandy.  The owners are from England and were so kind to let us bring Charlie with us.  This Manoir dates back to the 1500's.  

 Charlie played with Moses, one of dogs that lives here.  Looks like Charlie met his match.  

 Charlie loved loved spying out the window to see his new friend!

 Iain, the owner, was a fabulous host and a chef.  He actually offers culinary lessons available at his Manoir.  We decided to dine at his restaurant where we  enjoyed a four course meal.  They totally gave Charlie the royal treatment and gave him a seat to sit on next to us at the table!  I think Charlie will miss living in Europe, where dogs are welcom in most stores, restaurants, and many hotels.

The cat is wondering if it is safe to go out...

Sunday, we had to make our way back to Dusseldorf.
We stopped in France at this cute harbor town called Honfleur.

 It kind of looks like Coppenhagen...

 and it sounded like we were in Scotland!

 Here is my Mother's Day seaside dinner!

 And, of course,there was dessert...gelato!

We were so glad Charlie could come, he was a great traveller!

This week-end, we celebrate Pentecost Sunday.  But, Monday is also a holiday!
It is called Whit Monday, otherwise known as Pentecost Monday.
Another day off!?!  I think we might just stay home...

But, doesn't it seems odd that there are so many Christian holidays, 

but very few practicing Christians here?