Today began with a trip down towards Frankfurt to visit Joe and Anke. Joe played in the same band as Dave in the Hamburg Days. It was so enjoyable to visit a traditional German house and feel like we were living like a true German for the day. The old times stories flowed as generously as the wine and beer and the home made cooking.

We toured out into the forest to visit Burg Frankenstein, a medieval ruin. Lots of fun, great views.

The evening involved a ferry trip across to the Sankt Goarhausen wine festival. After getting off the ferry I began to doubt that I read it was on - the tiny village was very quiet -couldn't even see a restaurant or bar. After walking upriver for a while we heard a little noise coming from an alley. Following the sound to a little square - and hundreds of people, wine tents, food, amazing!!!

We collected our lovely engraved glasses and prepared to eat-drink-and-be-merry.

We were very merry by the end of the evening. It was wonderful to be where my name was commonplace and Stan was incorrectly pronounced. He was called Iron all night. He must have enjoyed the name change as he seemed to bond very well with the lads - even the one who was called "awkward" by his friends....or maybe better termed...the group he attached himself to.

Mum had been talking to a couple for a good 20minutes when she came over to the rest of us and asked Dave to translate something for her. She then says 'They're lovely people - don't speak a word of English'......Never let it be said that mum lets comprehension get in the way of conversation!!!!

It seemed I was the only one who noticed the time. It was difficult but finally everyone recognised the significance of it ....last ferry.... made it. Just! Luckily we only had a short distance to walk to the hotel.