Winter is here

Winter has finally arrived, which means cold weather and snow. The awfully cold weather (-15C/5F in the morning) is unusual here in Basel, but it has kept the snow on the ground for about 2 weeks. Unfortunately, this cold, light snow isn't great for making snowmen (a favorite for the kids) and we haven't been willing to bike in this temperature to work. But last weekend we made it outside for both sledding in the neighborhood ("schlittenfahren") and some skiing.

We found a very small "Kinderskilift" that was operated at a nearby farm, and it was the perfect first ski experience of the season for the boys. Landon has taken ski lessons a few times over the last 2 years, and Willem started last year. The hill was very picturesque, and we practically had it all to ourselves! There was a small rope tow running that took Landon a few times to learn, but then he was happy to do loops up and down the hill several times.

Willem avoided the rope tow after he saw me having trouble with it, so he mostly stayed at the bottom simply getting used to having skis on his feet. In fact, he enjoyed the hot chocolate most of all in a small warming hut near the barn and tractors.

And unfortunately, with this February chill, many viruses have been going around and the kids have been at home sick (Bob as well). It has been hard to fit everything in our usual work and school routine, and I'm hoping everyone is healthy soon. We also are looking forward to the upcoming Fasnacht season -- a time to scare away Old Man Winter and bring on spring! But not before a few more skiing and sledging outings...

Bis bald! (See you soon!)