July Fourth crept up on us this year.  Tuesday, the middle of summer in Austria, a holiday that nobody in the world recognizes but Americans.  It’s hard sometimes to remember holidays when the stores don’t remind you with shelves full of colored M&Ms.  We pulled out the BBQ though, making sure Jake and Eli understand their heritage of burgers, pasta salad and lemonade!

We also took a train ride on the Semmeringbahn, through miles of alpine countryside straight out of Hansel and Gretel.

At the top we had a picnic.

And along with America’s birthday, we also celebrated Mom.

Happy Birthday Mom!!!