Post date: Aug 15, 2014 4:03:41 PM
6 November 1966, Bielefeld
Well, it is about over. I gave a farewell party last night (Saturday)—it is traditional that I give the party—with Altbier from Düsseldorf and Altbier punch for the girls. We did well—about 15 quarts for 12 people—and at the same time didn’t disturb the entire house. On my last day in the workshop I will also “give one out”: a shot or two of schnapps to everyone who comes by to say goodbye.
After a week of below-freezing weather, Saturday started out frosted with snow and ended warm and dry (relatively). Today we went for a hike through some very beautiful countryside—the first time I wished for color film in the camera—in 55° fresh air and under blue skies lightly strewn with silvery clouds. We saw a fairly modern mansion no longer kept up and found an old mill which was missing its water wheel but is otherwise inside intact—dates from 1681.
My travel arrangements are all made, including car arrangements. I sent the last package Saturday with my papers, boots, a couple of model house kits and a few odds and ends. The four packages I’ve sent to date have cost $20 in postage.
We visited a farmhouse Saturday which an artist has rebuilt as his home. The living-room is excellent and I took several photos. He gave me the floor plan so I have an idea of the proportions. The living room is almost two stories high and has one end glass. The opposite end has a large fireplace with a del balcony over the fireplace. Also under the balcony is an eating corner. Very cosy and yet large and open.
PS. I’ll be staying with J R Rodland in Rutherford, New Jersey.