Postcard from the Alsatians

I’m sitting right now in the middle of a town, Obernai, in the Alsatians on the French/German border. The first written reference to the town dates back to the 9th Century. How much before that it was inhabited is anyone’s guess. The hotel I’m in, Hotel Gouvernuer was, as far as my French holds, the headquarters for the General of Louis the XIV. It’s a sixteenth century building, built into the town wall, with wattle and daub, and dark walnut staircase with boards 18 inches wide. LOVE!

Tonight for dinner we went to Strasbourg, and in an ancient restaurant, the Maison Kammerzell, with truly historical murals on the wall and leaded glass intermixed with stained crests in the windows. (We sat right under this mural). I had escargot, duck confit and a dessert I could not pronounce (as well as a glass each of Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris). On expense. With the rest of my team. We then came back through the dark and misty agrarian countryside, to the cobblestone streets.

So yeah, I spent the day in a 10 hour meeting in a conference room that could be anywhere in the world. And yes, it so happens I have to present at (eep!) 8 am tomorrow morning. And trust me, we’re getting a lot done and much of it is done much better for our connection and proximity.

But man, I’m not complaining. I’m having a fantastic time. My only regret is that I can’t roam as I will, am WAY underslept, and wish my husband was here to enjoy it with me. History, food, companionship and lilacs in bloom in France? These are a few of my favorite things….