Random Memories of Germany-Crystal

SUNDAY MEMORIES

Judy Wills

I am re-blogging this post, as it brings back so many wonderful memories of our time in Germany…

I want to share some precious items we found in Germany.  We had not heard of Swarovski crystal until we returned to Germany for our second tour of duty there (1980-1983).  We were enthralled with the beauty of it!  And while each piece was relatively inexpensive at our U.S. base exchange, we found them to be almost half price at the Canadian exchange in Baden Solingen.  We happened to be there once with Fred’s parents, and our daughters, and I had to borrow some Deutchmarks from my Father-in-law in order to purchase the ones I wanted.  And I did pay him back!

I actually purchased some for myself, as well as duplicates for our girls, so they each have a set of their own.  I suppose they can distribute ours to our grandchildren, when the time comes.

I found some lotus blossom candle holders that I really like, but I can’t use U.S. candles in them.  They are made for European candles, which are thinner-based.  So they sit on a shelf and look pretty.  That’s okay with me.

When we were in Germany, we traveled quite a bit.  One of the places we went, was Innsbruck, Austria.  The Swarovski factory is there, and we thought to pick up some “seconds.”  However, when we asked about “seconds,” the saleslady informed us that they had NO “seconds.”  If there is a flaw in the product, they just re-fire it and make something new.  Well, shucks!  That really put a damper on our outing!

Fred’s parents came to visit us in Germany each year we were there.  During our first tour, Fred’s Dad was involved with the gathering of Baptists in Bertchgaden, in Bavaria, and we joined them there, including my Mother, who was visiting at the time.  We all stayed in the General Walker Hotel at the top of a small mountain at the end of a steep drive.  The large facility was delightful (formerly used by the Nazi’s – named the Platterhof).  There were restaurants and shops within the main building. 

Fred’s mother found this beautiful crystal three-sided obelisk.  Each side has a different Christian symbol carved on it.  Here they are:

Of course, I was taken with the obelisk as well, and purchased one for myself.  When Fred’s mother died, I inherited her obelisk, which I have given to one of our daughters.  When I die, the other daughter will get mine.  I think it’s beautiful.

God has been so gracious to us allowing us to live in that wonderful country for a total of six years.  It was a terrific experience, and one I never dreamed I would have.  God is good.

For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected

if it is received with thanksgiving,

1 Timothy 4:4 

Judy is living in Central Florida with her retired U.S. Air Force husband of 50+ years. Born in Dallas, Texas, she grew up in the Southwestern United States.She met her husband at their church, where he was attending the university in her town. After college and seminary, he entered the Air Force, and their adventures began.They lived in eight of our United States, and spent six years in Europe, where their oldest daughter was born. She was a stay-at-home mom for many years .

  Judy has always been involved with music, both playing the piano and singing. Always interested in exercise, she was an aerobic dancing instructor, as well as a piano teacher for many years, and continues to faithfully exercise at home.

After moving to Central Florida, she served as a church secretary for nearly nine years.Her main hobby at this point in time is scanning pictures and 35mm slides into the computer. She also enjoys scrapbooking.She and her husband have two married daughters and four grandchildren, including grandtwins as well as a great-grandson. She and her husband enjoy the Disney parks as often as possible.

Tags: Memories of Germany, Swarovski crystal