First Cologne (Koln) Germany: locks on the bridge

There is a bridge in Cologne covered with locks of love.  If I understand correctly, the tradition is: inscribe it, lock it on, throw the key in the river.  Romantic, considering the number of locks along the bridge.

We were really there to see the Cathedral and the zoo.   I did not know about the bridge until we had to cross it from where we parked and had lunch.  The Hilton served currywurst with pommes outside.

Seconds before the first child awakened, I snapped a couple shots of Santa's handy work. We had the stocking hangers on the fireplace, but Santa moved them to the table so that the chocolate would not melt from the heat. How nice. These were taken at daybreak before the children awakened.
T. Leigh was the first, then Tommy, and finally we had to awaken Mikey. You can see the look on his face of bewilderment. Following are more photos of the wee ones.

T. Leigh has on her first Christmas outfit, and she is wide awake! The wonder in her eyes is probably due to the light that flashes on my camera just before the shutter snaps.

The boys are in their pj's opening their stockings. Note to parents of the under 3 set: No need to buy gifts; all they are interested in is the first toy they come across.