Wheeeeeee!

We have a valley at the end of our street which, during the warmer months, is home to grazing cows, sheep and goats.  On a good snow day, it's home to many families sledding down the steep hills.  Yesterday was such a day and, while we did not have 2 feet of snow (or schnee as they say here) as did our Boston friends, we had plenty for some good runs.  Everyone got in on the fun except for Marky who was happy just throwing snowballs and eating snow (hopefully no cow pies were hiding underneath!).  This valley is literally steps away from our place and is about a 15 minute walk to the train station on the other side, including the walk thru the opposite neighborhood.  Mike makes this walk to and from the train every day for work.  The pictures don't do it justice but it really is very steep and very pretty.  There are wonderful walking paths surrounding the valley and mini orchards.  In the summer, if there is a breeze blowing our way, it smells like we are living on a farm.  Eek!  There is also a horse farm near the valley and it is not uncommon to see people riding horses on the pathways and up our street.  Very surreal!  Here's our first sledding adventure in Germy!

(Click on picts to see larger slideshow.)

Dry run in the living room!

Looking down our street

Stairs at end of our street leading to valley.

Hmm... wonder why no one is using the wheelchair ramps?!

Sled hill - looking back at our neighborhood

These are genius and only 3 euro.  Easy to carry!

All the kids have these and take them to school.

Sit on the scoop and hold the handle up with your

legs up off the ground.  Easy stop - just put your feet down!