Volksmarching

Yes, I know I've been here 4 weeks now and haven't been posting much. Don't worry, I'll post more about the inside of my house soon. I get my shipment from Korea tomorrow, so you'll have to wait until I unpack and can get some good (and clean) pictures. For now, you'll have to settle for some pictures of my new Sunday activity, Volksmarching.

Roughly translated, volksmarch means "the people's march" (volk=people, march (sometimes spelled marsch)=march). These are typically 5km-20km walks through towns and the countryside. It's something relaxing (mentally at least!) to do on the weekends. Each Sunday there are volksmarches in several different towns across Germany. You usually go to the start hall (usually a school gym or similar venue), pay about 3 Euro (~$4.50) and get a start card. Every few kilometers along the walk there are "control points" where you get your card stamped and can get some water, tea, beer (yes, I am in Germany!), broechen (small very tasty rolls), etc. You end back at the start hall and typically can get food and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) as well as desserts (my favorite part!) You also typically get a medallion (medal) or some sort.

I got this bierstein from the volksmarch in Heidelburg.

And I got this thing (not really sure what it's supposed to be, but you can put a candle in it!) from the volksmarch in Miesau.

Volksmarches are a great way to get some exercise, see the countryside and socialize. They're also a way to see people in a new light. Here are two of our fellow volksmarchers from Ramstein standing next to the sign that says 'please don't pick the grapes'. It was a little bit late to save the grapes as one of these two (I won't tell you which one) had just picked some.

Here are some more scenic views from the walks.

I'll write later about the German-French border hike I took this weekend! Hope everyone is doing well!