Sunday, October 28, 2007

A German Sunday

On Sundays in Germany almost everything is closed. It’s mandated by law. (At least that’s what is says the International School of Bonn’s relocation guide). And while this puts the pressure on Saturday as a day to get errands accomplished, I think I may come to like the custom. Sunday’s with no retail really make it a day of rest.

This Sunday K and I did our first Voltzmarch, which is like an organized hike and the participants “Nordic walk” with poles and – if you’re an old school Germans – knickers and knee socks. K and I ran a 10 K course, but they also offered 5, 20, and marathon length routes. The flyer for the march offered some information in English under the headline “For Our American Friends in Wandering.” I think that perfectly describes the experience.

It was nice because it got us out into the countryside and showed us hiking trails and paths that we otherwise would not know about. This one offered wonderful views of the Rhein valley. (The first half of the run was uphill.)

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