June 21st & June 22nd (Day 8) Vienna

June 21 (night)

After enjoying a free afternoon in Vienna, many of us took naps to get ready for the evening.  Then a group of us took several subways to the museumquartier where we ate a late dinner (9:30).  The restaurant was really good and was airing the Germany vs. Ghana world cup match.  No matter where you go in Europe, you can be sure to find a restaurant or bar airing world cup games.  After dinner and several drinks we headed down the street to a dance club called Platzirch.  This club had a cool nightclub feel that played 80's and 90's American music so many of us felt right at home.  We put our proverbial dancing shoes on and stayed at Platzirch until 3:30 am or so.  Most bars in Vienna stay open until 4 am which is nice.  The night provided many great times and memories.   

June 22 (Day)

It was an early morning for those of use who went to the club last night.  We powered through it though.  Our first stop of the day was the Hapsburg "summer home".  This was a giant home just outside the city of Vienna where the Hapsburgs would live during the summer.  We took a tour through the home which was very interesting.  After the tour we walked though the back "yard" to the Vienna Zoo.  Note:  by back yard I mean a giant open field that stretches several acres.  The zoo was fun.  We were able to see quite a few different animals including a couple panda bears which are extremely rare. After the zoo several of us guys took the train back into the city to grab some food and get a workout in.  For the workout, we ran a several miles around Vienna then found a nice hill to run some sprints on.  After the workout, we took a quick nap to recharge the o'l batteries then headed to dinner with the group.  We are currently getting ready to watch the US vs. Portugal game.  USA!

- Clark

pictures of Maria Teresa's 16 children