Wyk auf Föhr

Föhr is an island off the coast of Germany on the North Sea. My paternal grandmother used to live there. Here are a few postcards she and my great aunt sent to my father after he had emigrated to the United States and enlisted in the Army during the Korean War.

Here's the back of the second card.

The message reads:
My dear Dieter! Today you are getting the last greeting from Wyk. We are leaving tomorrow morning.  It's difficult to leave, because September is so incredibly beautiful. Sun, and wind, and warmth. There is still quite a bit of business at the spa. Everything is in order with the check. They sent it on September 15th, probably had to let it clear first. Hopefully, you are doing well. When I get back you'll get some pictures of us. What about pictures of you??? Stay healthy my dear boy with loving greetings and thanks for all good things from your Mutti and Aunt Grete

More from Wyk tomorrow!

Florida Citrus

Special Note: I have extended the deadline for last week's giveaway for an additional week. Many people noted that they don't have iPhones, so they can't use the app. I should have made it clear that the apps also work on iPad and on iPod Touch. So, just in case you wanted to enter and didn't, here's your second chance: Click here for the giveaway post.

Along with that, here's some Florida sunshine to brighten your day. This scene looks like something from a model railroad; it doesn't look quite real.

Streetcar Sunday - Victoria BC, Canada

I have only visited Victoria, British Columbia once, but I thought it was a beautiful and charming place. One of the many memories that sticks with me is going shopping for clothing in Victoria. I am not always an enthusiastic shopper, but the experience there was relaxed and fun. Most of all, I was amazed at how labels were imprinted with Made in Canada.  I bought a few sweaters and a hat there, all made in Canada, of great quality and not expensive. After that, I started checking labels on everything to see where the items were made. Even the towels at the Empress Hotel were made in Canada. 

And here is a card of the Empress Hotel. The location is great and the hotel is beautiful, although many of the rooms are small. It would have been even nicer if there had been a tram when I was there. Still, it's a very walkable city.

Here's another card showing trams in Victoria.

Although there are no longer any trams in Victoria, there has been talk of bringing them back. BC Transit is looking at trams along with Light Rail Transit and Bus Rapid Transit as possible alternatives.  In their words: "they each have their advantages and enthusiasts." For updates on their plans, check the BC Transit website.

Here are the backs of the cards in the same order.

The message to Mr. William Fyfe reads:

Dear Dad:

Just a note you should have come too. Of course I'll be home when you get this but that's O.K. Having a swell time. May won't get out and hold the boat steady. Bye Now Love Sis (?)