Surgery Road Trip

While Mom was visiting we spent the majority of her trip taking Jon to have his knee surgery in Landstuhl, Germany. Only a mom would consider flying across the world to spend her "vacation" taking care of her son-in-law.  The drive to Landstuhl from Vicenza is 9 hours (11 hours on the way back due to snow and windy roads in the Alps) so we tried to make stops on the way to explore Germany and break up the trip.

Our first stop was at the Neuschwanstein castle, built by the mad King Ludwig.  If the castle looks familiar it is because Cinderella's castle in Disney World was modeled after this monstrous place.  Unfortunately, dogs were not allowed in the castle (yes, I asked) so Sherman had to stay in the car when we took the tour.  

Our next stop was in Munich for some frosty steins at the famous Hofbrauhaus. By the end of the night mom and one of the locals were carrying on a great conversation and laughing together.  The lady didn't speak a word of English and mom can't speak a word of German.  Maybe our political leaders should schedule their next NATO summit at the Hofbrauhaus.  I bet a lot of the world's problems could be solved.  Just sayin'.

"Prost!"

Finally we arrived at the Ramstein Air Force Base and it was just like stepping into the ol' USA!  The Air Force is spoiled!  They have a mall! A Macaroni Grill! Starbucks Coffee! And best of all.....CHILI'S!  Jon and I almost wish we hadn't seen how other military posts live because now our post in Italy looks quite sad and neglected.

What is that glow? Heaven?  No, its Macaroni Grill.  And yes, we know we live in Italy...but the truth is, Americanized Italian is better.  Just like how, in my opinion, Tex-Mex is better than Mexican food.  The truth hurts.

So after all of our adventures to get to the hospital in Germany- Jon had his surgery and everything went great. Before Jon went into surgery they told him he wouldn't be allowed to leave after the procedure until he peed, ate, walked (with crutches)  and drank something.  Well, Jon being the impatient overachiever we all know and love, they were wheeling him out of the surgery room and he was telling the doctor in his anesthesia haze that he was already ready to eat, drink, pee and walk.  The Doctor just laughed and said "Ummm...why don't you just relax for a bit."

This purple gown was amazing! It blows hot air throughout the gown so the patient can control their  temp and never be cold in recovery.  Every hospital needs these!  Jon just wished it came in a more manly color.

So now he is healing up nicely at home (the army gave him 30 days paid leave!) Before mom left to go back to the States she gave Jon a bell to ring in case he needs me.  Jeez. Thanks. Mom. 

Prince Jon