burg LICHTENBERG {Kusel Castle}

We've heard over {& over & over & over} since we've been here... those who most enjoy their stay here in Germany are the ones who get out and actually see {and experience} Germany. Since we're here, we've decided to make the most of it with no regrets. Our goal is to see and do as much as we possibly can to experience Germany and Europe as a whole while we are here. Today, we took a quick trip to a town called Kusel- about a 20-minute drive from our house. Our destination was the Burg Lichtenberg or Kusel Castle. The ruins date back as early as the 11th century- pretty cool to see especially being a hop and skip away from our house.

While it was a clear, beautiful, sunny day, the wind was freezing cold- reminding us of Kansas. {No, I didn't cry...} Even being winter, it was a beautiful drive winding up and down hills, through quaint villages and taking in amazing views. I was prepared- dressed in four layers {long-sleeve shirt, hoody, coat liner, coat} plus mittens and super warm poly-pro socks. My fingers and toes still managed to freeze and turn white from lack of circulation {thanks, mom}. Knowing it was around 30 degrees outside, I made the boys bring coats {& hats & gloves} as well. As soon as Caden realized Justin and Ty were only wearing their hoodies, he complained {again} that it was so unfair that we didn't make them put their coats on. {He already HATES that they get to stay up later than he does... why doesn't he realize he's only 5.. Justin's 17?} W h a t e v e r - as much as he'd never admit it, he was cold but took his coat off to be just like Justin. I'm learning to pick my battles...  We enjoyed walking around and exploring with very few people there, which was nice. The view was beautiful- pictures don't do it justice. There is also a nice restauraunt and a museum on site, both of which we plan to visit on our next trip this Spring or Summer. We'll definitely be back to visit once our world turns green.

** click on photos to enlarge them, I know they're small...I just take too many, can't help it!

The boys found this little spot to jump off of... burned some energy and about 30 minutes watching them jump {& catch a little air}. They were happy... we were happy!