Tales and Trails

  In August 2026, we packed our bags, loaded the dogs into the car, and headed for Switzerland. Why? Simply because it is undeniably beautiful and packed with endless places to explore. Our ultimate destination was a cozy mountain apartment in Giubiasco, near the Italian border. However, with the girls (our dogs) in tow and a long drive ahead, we decided to make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. A Peaceful Bavarian Pit Stop: Irsee We split the drive by staying two nights in Irsee, a stunning and typical small Bavarian town. It had everything you picture when you think of Bavaria: a charming church, a local brewery with a beer garden, and lots of lush greenery. Because it was scorching hot, the local streams were an absolute blessing. We spent an entire morning chilling on a blanket by the water while the girls splashed around to cool off. Later, we sat by the local pond, mesmerized by the quiet beauty and watching the ducks play—which was, of course, fascinating for...

  Last Sunday, the open road called, leading us on a delightful journey to reunite with my former colleague, Jana, and our wonderful canine friend, Willi, in the picturesque village of Kallmünz, Bavaria, Germany . The day was a beautiful blend of heartwarming reunions, stunning landscapes, and the quiet charm of traditional Bavarian life. We set off bright and early around 8 am, and thanks to Germany's excellent autobahns, the 2.5-hour drive was incredibly smooth and fast. There's truly something special about Bavaria; its pristine landscapes, well-kept towns, and rolling hills always make for a refreshing visit. The Story of Willi: A Journey to His Forever Home Our visit was particularly meaningful as it allowed us to see Willi, a sweet soul who had a rough start. My dear friend Jana, our angel, stepped in at the eleventh hour to give him the loving home he truly deserved. Willi had sadly been returned from an adoption, then moved to a temporary foster home with a strict one-m...

  October 2023 My beloved Mia, a golden-hearted girl with a spirit far younger than her years, absolutely loved the water. So, I made it my mission to take her to the sea one last time. Our destination? The famous Pluto Beach in Bibione, Italy. But because Mia was already an older lady (11 years young!), I didn't want her to endure a marathon car ride. Senior dogs need comfort, frequent breaks, and a slower pace. So, we turned the journey into a two-part adventure, breaking up the long haul with a pit stop in the Austrian Alps. This trip wasn't just a holiday; it was a thank-you letter to my best friend. Part 1: Austria – The Lake of a Million Sticks We broke the drive in Gmunden , Austria , right on the shores of Traunsee . We stayed in a cute hotel with incredibly friendly staff, and the best part? The lake was literally our front yard. I must have thrown at least a million sticks for Mia to fetch. She paddled happily, refusing to believe that "tired" was a concept...