On the Spree

I'm not sure what the significance of this old boat is, but it makes a nice focal point out on the Spree. I can't believe August is already halfway over. I don't want the summer to end yet! You'll find more treasures at Tuesday Treasures.

On the water

As I said yesterday, there are many ways to enjoy your time on the Spree. Perhaps one of these canoes strikes your fancy?

A paddleboat is another fun way to get out on the water.

Or there's always the paddleboard - you can always take a little break if it gets too tiring. How would you like to spend your summer day on the Spree?

Other side of the bridge

I showed you this bridge from the other side a few weeks ago. Now here's a look from the Insel der Jugend out across the Spree to the mainland. While you're on the island, you can enjoy a coffee or a snack here at the beachside cafe.

If you're feeling more sporty, you can rent a canoe or if you're really adventurous, maybe a paddleboard. For more signs, visit Signs, Signs.

The monumental monument

As promised, here is a look at the Soviet War Memorial. I hope the people and the little biker give you an idea of the scale of this sculpture - it's massive!

The sculpture was created by Soviet artist Yevgeny Vuchetich and alledgedly represents the true store of a Soviet soldier who risked heavy machine gun fire to save a young German child during the Battle of Berlin. In reality, the Soviets ransacked the city of Berlin when they marched in, raiding homes and businesses for anything of value. Rape and abuse was also rampant during that time and it is said there is a whole generation of children who were conceived during that violent time.

Here's a look back on the rest of the memorial park from atop the plinth of the statue. The whole thing is a little too grandiose and pompous for my taste. I know bad things happen during wars, but it's hard for me to accept this view of history. I'm still glad I made the trip out to see it though.

Memorial mural

We are back to Treptower Park and the Soviet War Memorial. This mosaic is actually inside the monument (which really is monumental) itself. I'll show it to you tomorrow. Until then, you can find more murals at Monday Mural.

Rose garden

I recently took a walk through Treptower Park, mainly to see the Soviet War Memorial, but also to just get a feel for this area of the city (I rarely venture out this far east). There was a lovely, little rose garden within the park marked by this sign.

Though beauties like these don't need signs at all! In case you do need signs, you'll find more at Signs, Signs.

Blues skies over the bridge

I recently made a trip out to Treptow and spent a lovely day walking through the Treptower Park and along the Spree. On my way, I came across the Insel der Jugend which was used by young people in the former East as a disco and meeting place. Today it houses a youth sporting club as well as a cafe and boat rentals. It looks like a fun place to hang out on a summer's day and I just might have to come back! For more sunny skies, take a look at Skywatch. And more reflections can be found at Weekend Reflections.

It's Friday again! Do you have any big plans for the weekend? There is a street festival in my neighborhood this weekend. I plan on seeing what they have to offer as well as playing a little golf. Hopefully the rain won't put a damper on those plans. Have fun, whatever you do!

Fancy bridge

I recently showed you the Oberbaumbrücke by night during the 25 year Mauerfall celebrations. Now here's a better look at the bridge in the daytime. It really is quite lovely, especially under a blue September sky.

PS: Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends! Eat some pumpkin pie for me. 

Made it!

Remember when I showed you the funny sign for White Trash Fast Food back in March? (If you don't, just click on the link). I promised to check the place out one day and so I did, although at the restaurant's new location in Treptow. 

I'm not sure I need to go back here. The food was only ok and the waiters were clueless Americans (it was hard to remember that I had to speak English to them!). But I'm glad I checked it out for the kitsch factor. The new location is much bigger and has a large outdoor terrace where bands and such play on the weekends. That might be worth coming back for - I guess we'll see! For more signs, take a look at Signs, Signs.

Confidential to my dh: Happy anniversary!