On a recent hike I organized for and with my Innsbruck expats/locals group, Thomas, the son of our good friend Gaby, broke his foot. For the third time this year. Our good friend Dr. Douggl checked him on scene and my husband Helli ran down the mountain to get the car, drove them down, then ran back up to join us. Wow.
On a hike days later with my husband, we passed two middle-aged women taking their donkeys out for a walk. I took a pretty terrible photo but I'll try to post it.
The following Friday on a hike with our friend Gaby, we watched a farmer nearly beat up a cyclist cutting across his fields. When I say beat, I am not exaggerating. The cyclist was minutes away from the trail but for fear of being beat, quickly turned around and went all the way back. Don't mess with Tyrolean farmers. I'm serious.
On a hike last weekend, we made friends with locals playing guitar and accordian at the beer house we hiked up to. We drank radlers, I sang my heart out, Helli used his finger to make a capo for me so I could play Whiskey Night and I learned to play spoons and yodel. The family that owned the house were so happy we got free hats and shirts and were invited to return with our friends and play the house instruments whenever we want. I have video which I'll try to post. We'll for sure be back.
All in all, hiking in the alps is more than just good shoes and sunscreen.
I'm looking forward to my breaks in between touring.
I should have my yodeling skills down by then.
