Königskerzen

Or King's Candles if you prefer. These monsters were growing on a wall about 4 metres up, and must have measured about 2 metres in height. Goodness knows what kind of root structure supports them.

In Eltville this evening where they have a smashing Rose garden and some interlopers like this. It really is a lovely spot. We had a bit of a wander round before repairing to a restaurant for a half decent meal made immeasurably better by a lovely view over a vineyard to the Rhein and some very interesting conversation.

Conversation that took place mainly in German (OK so I listened more than anything but I understood a lot) and again, this gave me hope that I have not plateau-ed in my learning curve just yet. Sometimes I used to think I was destined to be a fast starter and then there would be nothing more to me - nights like tonight put the lie to fact that I can't learn more.

I like this a lot.