Friday, May 22, 2015

Off Questing without Lord Hickory.

So after Lord Hickory left on a special solo quest, the Minions and Lady Hummigbyrd left on their own quest in search of Sir Marine.

Well after getting some good snuggling in that is.  Off on a multiple train and walking trip to France.

Getting to ride one of the speed trains was fun, we even adopted an extra Oma on the way. :)

The long hours took their toll and sleeping did occur more than once.
On arriving we went up to see the first of several monuments during our stay.

Our hosts were wonderful, we highly recommend staying with them if you ever go to Chateau-Thierry.



Apparently they refurbish the monument once a decade, our timing is spectacular.


Rocking the memorials, we take time to think about why such an edifice was necessary.
The next morning would bring us by taxi to the location we were to mee Sir Marine at.

While we awaited his imminent arrival, we wandered around the town that would become such a site of pilgrimage for Marines to come.
Spring is a beautiful time of year to visit, even if some memorials have long fallen out of memory.
World War II has somewhat overshadowed WWI in its presence in the modern generations mind.
Obligatory picture to send to Papa later on.

Princess Lumpy is somewhat less impressed.
Private tour of the Devil Dog fountain and learning the history of the place that was rebuilt after both WWI and WWII.


Only the basement remained standing of this building after it was bombed flat in WWII.

The owner of the house in the background rebuilt all that is seen, and left other parts in ruins.

Spirits still high, cannot wait to see their uncle.

After a discussion on being respectful and quiet, we headed into the cemetery.


Skosh inspects the groundskeeper's handiwork.


Being struck by the shear number of names and those unaccounted for as well.

As well as by the number of those who are buried in unknown graves.

We finally found Sir Marine!


The less visited memorial buildings.


Sir Marine's entourage.


Leaving the cemetery so we can have our picnic lunch.

Dash and Grins polymorph-self into parrots.

Posing by the fountain prior to the ceremony.

Watching the honor of Sir Marine's contractual renewal.

Skosh catches up on sleep instead.

A great day for their uncle, logged into the archives as Lady Marine could not be present.



Devil Dog Fountain celebratory drinks all around!

Time to leave our lovely home and begin the whole trip in reverse.


Many many thanks to our most gracious and wonderful hosts.

Back onto the trains, and a parting gift for Papa.

Home again after a long but worthwhile journey.

To all of those who have fallen through the years, we remember and salute your sacrifices where ever or in whatever course they may have occurred.  Happy Memorial Day to those who have gained much by what you have done.