EUROPE 2012

Henri is so excited he is going back to Europe.  The trip begins "morgen Früh" or "demain matin".   He will be visiting his two favorite places: Ireland and Germany. But most of all, this trip will be very special because he is going to visit his birthplace: Alsace, France. Not sure what to expect since it has been many, many years since he has been back. Before going to Alsace there will be a 5 day visit to Paris, ou la la. After France will be a trip to Switzerland to try and reconnect with long lost relatives (Mountain Gnomes). The end of the trip will finish at a big party in München, Deutschland (Wedding, not Henri's). If time permits there will be a side trip to Salzburg, Austria (Arnold Scharwzennegger's backyard).   Henri will provide periodic updates so check back for more....

Adventures in Maui

The weather is nice and Henri is working to blend in to the local scene.

First attempt to pass as a Hawaiian, not working...

Henri hanging out in the Banyan Tree downtown Lahaina.



Ready to Party! Some Pina Colada and a Mai Tai. If you didn't
know, this Gnome can handle quiet a bit of drink.




After a long day, time for a short dip in the pool.  Gnome-tastic!

2011 HAWAII

This year Henri decided to take a short vacation from the hectic pace of Gnome living. 2011 allowed only some mini vacations from all the Gnome work so he decided to go to Maui, Hawaii to relax. Here is a picture of his first day at Maui. He thought it was nice to have such a great Welcome gesture on part of the peoples of Hawaii. Time to play,relax and explore.

Oktoberfest Pictures

The opening band at HofBrau Haus tent

More of the band members

 Inside of another tent

And yet another tent, they each have their own theme.

 

This tent was crowded and decorated brightly.

This is the tent where we PARTIED!  Oh the good time we had.

 Another crowd picture. 

Mehr Fotos of Europe

Mexican Restaurant in Amsterdam

The Menu at the Mexican Restaurant.  Hum, I wonder what kind of Mexican food?

Germany:  Where is the arrow pointing to????

The most delicious Plum tort I have ever had in Germany!

Crowded but the party has not started.  Everyone is still sober.

These guys were catching up for lost time. 

The Madchen of Oktoberfest...

Reminiscing about Europe 2010

Some photos of places/things in Amsterdam.

An outdoor Classical Concert in front of a church.  Lots of people just taking it in.

At the top of each building is a pulley which is used to hoist large items to the homes/apts.  Only way to get large furniture up.

Amsterdam canals everywhere.  People live on those house boats.

People eat outdoors when the weather is nice.  This place had fantastic apple pie with fresh cream.

All around Amsterdam you get to see old architecture.  As Huell Hauser says: "It's Amazing!"

Can you believe this? A restaurant seating area over the canal?  Didn't eat there but I'm sure it was good.

Amsterdam is a city in love with bicycles.  Bicycles rule and you can find them everywhere.  While walking around the city you have to made sure you are not on a bike path.  The cyclists will run you over or swear at you in Dutch. 

Henri's neuer Hut (new Hat)

Great news.  After looking everywhere Henri finally found a replacement hat. Not exactly like the original but close.  He now has the template for making more custom made hats in case he loses another.  Henri has been busy entertaining one of his relatives from Ireland.  I think his relative really likes the USof A.  Although he is here illegally, perhaps the thought that he can bring good luck or work for measly wages, people will be OK that he is here contributing to the economy.  Check out the new hats! His cousin looks like a million bucks...

Stay tuned for more pictures of the Euro Trip