Happy Valentines Day

For a combined valentines day and birthday present, Greg planned a trip back to Dresden. I was disappointed that we couldn't see the Opera house the first time we visited, so he purchased tickets and arranged for a babysitter so we could attend a concert on February 13th. It was a quick trip, but we enjoyed the alone time in the car, the night life of Dresden, and the concert itself. The car ride was pleasant. It took five hours and we planned on listening to books on CD. We didn't listen to much, because we ended up talking most of the time. It is amazing how much conversation is better when kids are not interrupting. We also enjoyed stopping where WE wanted to for lunch, QUICK bathroom breaks and listening to the music of OUR choice.

We arrived at our hotel in time to get settled and enjoy a nice dinner before getting ready for the concert. The hotel was conveniently located in the city center so we could walk everywhere. The city was alive with activities, since it was the 64 aniversary of the bombing of Dresden. People were everywhere. There were concerts and memorial services at all of the churchs. People were placing candles at the base of the Frauenkirche and wearing white roses.

The concert started at 8pm and was amazing. It was a sold out performance of Verdi's Requiem mass. We had great seats and could feel the energy from the performers. The concert began and ended without applause. When the music ended, the entire audience stood up without clapping and there was a minute of silence for those who died in the bombing. It was very dramatic.

Upon leaving the opera house, the streets were again filled with people. All the church bells began tolling while people walked around town holding candles.