Life is just a lame, less metal version of death, and that’s why only hippies care about it.
Philomena Cunk (Diane Morgan)
We are back.
It is late and I will keep this short. With pictures that, I think, capture the essence of our holidays: fun, tons of time in the wide open spaces, and spending time in the company of the most interesting people.
Fun
Have you ever watched Cunk on Earth? Here is Pádraig’s reaction when, as far as I know, he watched her show for the first time.






If you haven’t watched it, try it. He thought it was hilarious. If you have a little more time, watch her interview with Stephen Colbert on the Late Show.


Wide Open Spaces
From the North Sea Coast to the Rotterdam and Europe’s biggest sea port.











In the Company of Friends
You have seen Garding several times. But it’s always surprising. Not necessarily because of the quality of the music but because of the bands’ enthusiasm and dedication. Where would you find it: Four dead in Ohio, 50 ways to leave your lover, so people get ready because there’s a train a-coming, it’s gonna be a bright sun shiny day, nothing but blue sky, though yesterday’s gone and you’re feeling strong, in the purple rain.









The world, life, is good. Sometimes, we just have to open our eyes a little bit more to see it. With focus. And fewer distractions.

Great to see those smiles! Sounds like a super show… and a great summer holiday 👍😎.
Warm wishes to all the Schalers
Raphael
You can check the show out on YouTube. Probably not everybody’s cup of tea – but at least very different. The smiles were fantastic. They meant a million things. We need to thank all the people who made it possible for Pádraig to live these really funny, uplifting moments: From Philomena and the BBC for producing the show, to Maria for ‘discovering’ it for Pádraig, to all the people, all our family and friends, who keep us going, to get to Germany for this brilliant, mind opening break. What sounds and looks so extraordinary should really be the most normal in the world. It will be. One day. Thank you for being with us, Raphael, for your friendship and support.