Sunday, January 20, 2013

Starnberger Eiszauber


AJ, Missy, Rachel, Grandma & Dominic (Stef is talking to a friend!)
We have decided that the Germans are good at winter.  I'm not talking about plowing roads or dressing properly or heating houses. Although they are pretty good at that. They are good at enjoying winter.

It doesn't matter if it's cold, people get outside. They go for walks, they take their dogs, their kids, their babies. Really.

In fact they seem to manufacture outdoor activities to guarantee outdoorsy-ness.

For the past two weekends an "ice skating rink" was built in the church square (Kirchenplatz) of our town.  We were a little surprised to find it wasn't an ice rink but a manmade plastic rink. However, that wasn't stopping herds of kids from "skating". Rachel and her friend found it hard to skate but still had fun for over an hour on the "ice".

Next to the rink are half a dozen food stands manned by local restaurants selling tasty food and of course gluhwein.  If you don't know about gluhwein, look here: Christbaumarkt.  Also on the square?  Three giant teepees filled with tables and chairs and portable heaters.  It's cozy, and a good place to have a snack.

The first weekend Steve, Rachel and I walked into town to enjoy the skating, treats and to meet friends.  We live about 30 minutes from the center of town and walk along a path to make our hike a little shorter.  It's a pretty walk although a little more challenging with snow and mud.

Teepees on the Kirchenplatz
The second weekend we brought all the kids with us plus Grandma for lunch and ice skating viewing.  No one skated but they enjoyed burgers and crepes and gelato.  I know, gelato? Really?  But again, enjoy winter, stay warm in the teepee and eat gelato.  It just works, although I'll take a warm nutella crepe any day!

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