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I wanted to take this opportunity to apologize for the sparse postings – I have been traveling and fairly literally “unplugged” since arriving in Germany last week. This is also an opportune time to share some of the spirit of the season with all of you too – and most appropriately Christmas from Germany.

My visit to Europe so far has taken me to Frankfurt, Luxembourg and many of the local German villages including the city of Trier. This charming and interesting city is actually Germany’s oldest having been founded more than 2000 years ago.

This place is steeped in tradition and the obvious influence of time and rich human endeavor.

Being from America, it is a little bit humbling to be honest particularly during Christmas time. So much of our tradition stems from places like Trier really.

The Roman influence on the city is quite obvious in both architecture and art and I was lucky to arrive just as the Trier Christmas Market opened. Christmas markets are prominent in Germany and Luxembourg, but this one in Trier is regarded as the most famous, and it was easy to see why. This was truly a charming treat – being inundated with everything Christmas from music to traditional foods and drink. The combination of colors, lights at the market and the open hearted people there set against an ancient background makes for a deep and ethereal experience I assure you.

My “more than angelic” guide Mihaela Lica, escorted me and some other friends through Trier and other villages over the last few days. I must say, it is easy to see why she fell in love with the country. The people here are very nice and well educated, if somewhat reserved around strangers.

The whole atmosphere during this time of year is one of openhearted celebration. It is here that we can all draw something from centuries of holiday tradition and genuine Christmas feelings. With these lights, sounds, food, gifts and togetherness – minus the hype -lays a genuine celebration and an opening of the heart. Let me wish each of you and yours a very happy Christmas – from my heart and from the cradle of German culture.