Sylvia Petter at Shakespeare and Co in Vienna

Sylvia Petter and I have been speaking over skype almost daily at times.. For nearly 18 months about different writing projects.

It was a real thrill to become her publisher for her anthologies and even a bigger thrill to be at the official launch and readings from Mercury Blobs.

The bookstore is a readers dream. Piles of interesting tomes lay waiting to be discovered and loved. A huge crowd turned up to support and listen to Sylvia- the whole store was packed to standing room. I know how proud I felt, I can only imagine how Sylvia felt.

It was a real buzz too, to see New Sun Rising on sale at the bookstore.

OMG... Vienna and cakes..

I'd always been told about the pastries and cakes here.. And now can see why folk are so passionate about it. We visited one of the oldest.. And most prestigious bakeries ( gahhhh to call it a bakery is an absolute insult) the place was a masterpiece in beauty and class... And the sweet spicy aromas it emitted... Sigh...

The kitchen was open for visitors to watch them prepare the famous Sacha Torte and Apple Strudel. So yum...

Spanish Riding School, Vienna

Far out.. Blow my mind.. Although we had planned to come to just the training in the morning, when we arrived we were told the training was stopped for the summer season.. But we had the opportunity to watch a performance.

I don't know how powerful it was for a non rider but I was moved to tears with admiration and emotion as I watched.

The Lipizzaner Stallions have been part of Vienna since the 1500s. They are traditionally bred white, but different colours are now being accepted.

Unbelievably beautiful and disciplined horsemanship. Their poise and precision makes you weep. All of the performances are done to music.. Opera of course, but it doesn't seem strange or put on.. Even with the enormous chandeliers hanging overhead.