Climb Every Mountain: June 2017

We didn't necessarily plan for our two summer trips to be so close together, but that is just how it worked out. About a month ago we headed north to Germany for a five day getaway. The main purpose of this trip was for the kids to experience Legoland. We had planned this trip a long time ago and the last several months the kids have looked forward to going to Legoland. John LOVED legos as a child(really he still does) so he was also really looking forward to their reaction to the park. Both Hannah and Elliott were tall enough to go on quite a few of the rides. Hannah even went on two pretty fast roller coasters. I think Elliott enjoyed the train the most, or the safari ride, but didn't enjoy spinning in circles. After spending two days at Legoland we drove to a town about 15 miles outside of Stuttgart in the Black Forest. We really enjoyed our day of hiking in the Black Forest for Bear's birthday and eating yummy food in Stuttgart. The city of Stuttgart itself was a bit disappointing. We didn't realize how big it was and it didn't have a very historical looking old town, most likely due to destruction during the World Wars. But in general we had a nice time and the kids had fun, which was the main goal of this Germany trip.

Luzern

Swiss Gondola

Dreaming....

So Excited

Legoland pizza lunch

Schwarzwald landscape

German hills

Birthday Ice Cream

Playing with the new Legos

The second trip we had was a 4.5 days/4 nights kid free vacation! John had asked a friend from America if she would be interested in coming here to watch the kids. She was, and she even works as a nanny to a family with 3 kids. We were so thrilled that she wanted to come here! We decided to stay somewhat close to home and spent 2 nights in the Engadin area of Switzerland and 2 nights in Livingo Italy. Basically in a very beautiful part of the Alps with lots of nice mountain passes to ride on the bikes. Our Itinerary was two long road bike rides going over a few passes and a long trail run. I don't get as much time on the bike as compared to running so I was a bit nervous for what John had planned. But, I survived, despite the heat, and really enjoyed it. Unfortunately I do have a hard time keeping my electrolytes balanced in the heat and altitude during long duration exercise...I consumed a lot of sport drink and a lot of salt and vinegar chips to keep from getting really sick! We were also able to stroll around the towns, do some shopping, and eat relaxed meals out for dinner. What a blessing it was. Now to plan next year (it is our 10 year anniversary after all)!!