There is a physical place called home and it is the place family lives and traditions are celebrated and love and morality and righteousness taught. But then there is a home that feels like home. Vienna is that for me. It was here that I lived as a young single woman. I would board my underground or tram, walk the streets, see the flowers, buy veggies and fruit from my little market down the street and greet my little man who worked there every day. I would meet women to discuss Christ and purpose and the universe over coffee in the most delightful cafes, with little flowers on the table, usually sweet music playing in the background and always, always the coffee was served in a real porcelain or china cup. Everywhere I would walk and take in the beautiful crisp air, people would pass with a Grussgott–meant Greet God–but really meant good morning. I thought God lived in Vienna because that is where I learned to love, worship and trust Him all by myself when no one else was looking. So, going there with my sweet ones, yet one more time, and seeing old friends and old haunts was a much needed vacation for my soul. And yes, God still lives in Vienna, too.
Coffee and hot fudge cake at Heiners–an old favorite.
Coffee tastes more elegant in this the melauge or cappicino to you. And note the little flowers!
The buildings are old, beautiful, full of artistic detail, archways everywhere.
I had to take everyone to the Sacher Hotel for real sacher torte–the real one always has dark chocolate topping and apricot jam in the middle. Again, it tastes better when served in a pretty way.
We trained everywhere and took the trams and underground all over. Joel spared my ankle and carried my load. Sweet, wonderful heart. I cherish him so much and now miss him again. He was born in Vienna. Maybe that is why he is musical.

The beautiful Hoffburg Palace–the winter palace for the royalty–where Marie Antoinette and Maria Theresa her mother lived. The Hapsburgs ruled over the empire–the total rule in Europe for this great coalition between Hungary and Austria was over most of Europe and lasted for 600 years. Maria Theresa, a devout Catholic, felt it her spiritual duty to marry all of her children to leaders of other countries to promote faith.
Oh, how can one choose? I guess we will just have to come 3 times a day!

Elegance and beauty cared for with every detail.

The Gorgeous Musikverein in Vienna–an evening with Mozart and the New World Symphony with my composer son who was in heaven, the two girls and a precious old friend, Monica, from Vienna. What an uplifting evening.
The inside of the music hall looking at the ceiling.
Joy, in Salzburg, in the tombs where the Sound of Music was filmed and in the movie where the family hid!
My last meal with Joy before we joined the others and came home. Thanks so much Lord for giving me such a gift into my past with my sweet daughter and into the recesses of my soul. You are so good!












This was so lovely, Sally!
I love your thoughts about two different kinds of homes…I couldn’t agree with you more! I suppose heaven will be the ultimate, “This feels like home!”
Vienna is on my list of places to visit…and the Sound of Music is my favorite movie!
Thanks for the sweet diversion today!
We were supposed to go to Vienna at the end of April, but our trip was canceled due to the volcanic eruptions. They have rescheduled our trip for June 24… I’m hoping the volcano will remain calm until we get home!! Your post has gotten me so excited, I’m taking notes on the places you mentioned. If you have any tips for a first time Vienna traveler please (as if you have time
) email me at jessryan828@gmail.com.
I wouldn’t be able to come to your location, but I do run a graphic design company from my home in SC and would love to talk with you about seeing if I can help in any way!
I would appreciate it more than you know!.
My friends and I have delighted in studying your “Mission of Motherhood”
Thank you for your ministry.
Also, I know you mentioned needing funds for web development. Do you also need manpower?
Thanks!
Jessica
Sally, I love each and every post you write, because your love and mission for your children is so evident in them. I never fail to come away from your writing inspired and challenged! As my husband will be out of town quite a bit this summer, I’m choosing to see those days/weeks as opportunities to spend loads and loads of special time with my three children, and be thankful for it! Thank you so much for all you’re doing for us moms who are coming behind you!!
Sarah
p.s. I changed my blog from “In the Midst of It” to a new site/name, but my email remains the same.
That was so beautiful, Sally! And you always have wonderful pictures to accompany your life-giving words. Thanks for sharing about your marvelous trip, here. Beating down a tiny bit of jealousy and so glad you had time with your precious ones. They’re getting older soooo quickly, aren’t they? Bless you all, and I hope your ankle is healing quickly!Love, Misty