Gimmelwald Part 2

Owen awakes feeling poorly, so we all snuggle and sleep in a bit. It reminds me of being home to be able to shuffle down to the kitchen and make breakfast in our PJs. We use our Alp cheese, eggs, fresh bread and sausage to make a heavy American meal. Afterward I get to do dishes- just like home!

We shower, dress and head off for a country walk to the neighboring village of Murren. We’ve asked the woman at the hotel, who has indicated that while the walk to Murren is uphill at times, a child could manage it in half an hour. This turns out to be pretty unrealistic for us and George and I have to stop quite often along the way, huffing and puffing. Fortunately, the views are pretty despite the heavy clouds obscuring the upper peaks. Much to Owen’s delight, we pass lots of animals- cows, goats, cats and chickens. The cable car to Murren glides silently and mockingly right over our heads.

We arrive exhausted and stroll slowly through the village. This town is more commercial than Gimmelwald and has several stores and restaurants. The train also comes all the way up to Murren, making delivery of goods and people much more convenient.

A side trip to a charming little country playground seems in order for Owen. It has several climbing nets made of interwoven ropes. Owen quickly learns how to navigate them and also figures out how to lean back and forth and pump his legs to propel himself on the swing.

We journey on, stopping at a local cheese shop to sample some and peruse their handmade gifts. George is anxious to ride the cable car up to the top of the mountain for more alpine views, but we agree that given the heavy clouds and fog, it’s not worth the hefty cost.

Instead, we catch some lunch on the terrace of a cafe in Murren. A cat also patronizes the place, approaching diners and attempting to steal the food from their plates. Owen thinks this is very amusing and it keeps him entertained as we enjoy macaroni & cheese, tomato soup and toasted ham, cheese and pineapple sandwiches.

The walk back down to Gimmelwald is much less painful. We trip along easily, stopping often for pictures. Back in our room, we share some afternoon coffee and chocolate and read in bed. Later, George and Owen visit the playground again while I type up several posts for the website.

We’ve decided to visit the local hostel for a dinner of pizza and beer, the only items they serve besides chocolate fondue. When we head over the scene is lively with young people, just checking or or returning from hikes. Owen charms them with his engaging smile and friendliness and by dancing to music at their request. The pizza is pretty good despite the frozen, pre-made crust and we head back to the guesthouse with leftovers.

I aggressively pare down our supplies and pack tightly, with the result that we have space to spare. It’s likely that we won’t unpack again until we reach home.

Staying in Gimmelwald has been very relaxing. Although we’ve both been disappointed with the persistent clouds, which have never lifted long enough for a clear view of the entire valley, we’ve been gratefully for the chance to rest, take it slow and catch up to the realization that this whirlwind trip is nearly over. I’m stunned by, overall, how well it has gone and how much we’ve been able to do and see. As I’ve had time to reflect today, I’ve begun to see how this trip will effect our perspective and our choices in the future. It’s made the world a smaller but more intriguing and real place for us all.

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