"The Hills Are Alive..."

After leaving Germany, we headed to Austria. That was for sure the most anticipated destination for Mom. As we crossed the border she perked up, looked out the window, and even got a little teary eyed. She had waited her whole life since seeing "The Sound of Music" when she was little. "This is speaking to my soul," was about all she could say. I was so excited to be there and experience that with her.

We got to our hotel and didn't waste any time getting into town. It was love at first sight! Around every turn there was yet another beautiful view.
We spent part of our evening at an adorable out door cafe with the beautiful Alps behind us and adorable buildings all around. Mom was even adventurous and tried the wienerschnitzel.

Next on our list, the Swarovski store. Mom found herself, yet again, amongst one of her favorite things: SPARKLES! The basement of the store is designated as a themed display title "A Winter Wonderland." There were sparkles every where, it spoke to Mom's soul.
We spend the rest of the night wondering around and found the river. It opened up to beautiful vistas of the mountains and river side town. It was literally breath taking.
We made our way back to a church to sit by, eat gelato, and listen to church bells in Europe. It was just another "this is speaking to my soul" for Mom.
Our hotel was situated just across the street from a church which made mom so happy the next morning as we heard church bells on our way out.
We drove through the beautiful country side and decided then and there that Austria is one place to come back to. It's too bad that the pictures just don't do it justice.
Austria delivered on all it's allure for Mom. She found everything she wanted and more. It truly spoke to her soul (as you can see, that quickly became the catch phrase of Austria).