It's official

On our last full day in Switzerland, I'm sure it would come as no great surprise to anyone, we hiked. Friday had been overcast with the forecast for heavy rain and thunderstorms, so we took the train down to Bellinzona to check out the castles there, figuring if it rained we would have something to do. But that trip will be another post. Saturday the skies were crystal clear and Bob started wondering if we could catch a flight a few days later to the states. My suggestion is that we plan a few return trips. That's the only way we'll manage to hike all the alps. ;-)


We packed up our belonging, left our suitcases in the hotel and started out up the hill. We didn't have a specific route planned, but decided to head toward the towers on the mountain behind the hotel, figuring we could find a wanderweg that would eventually lead us back to town.


Bob has 3 criteria before he feels that our hike can be officially called a hike. We have to get above 5,000 feet. We need to hike above the tree line. And it needs to be a loop, no "out-and-back," those are just too boring.


My criteria? Hmmm. I'm not sure I have any other than it has to be a few hours in length or else it just seems like a walk. Of course, if it involves a steep climb it suddenly can be transformed from walk into hike.


As we've hiked in Switzerland, as well as other parts of Europe, I've found that although I am very partial to a great Alpine view, the chance to spend the day in the mountains or along a lake or snaking my way through a forest trail, and see God's hand in all of creation is always a real treat. Bob sometimes questions whether I am finding it pleasurable, based on the pained look that he says is on my face.


But few things in life that are precious come without pain or weariness. The joy of parenting is only made sweeter because of the toil that is involved. (And I'm not just referring to labor and delivery!!) Helping a child understand a difficult concept by presenting it in multiple ways until they finally grasp it is a joy to both teacher and child. Crafting an object of beauty with your hands and the sweat of your brow only increases its value. Coming to know our Creator and Lord more intimately through the trials that come our way, although never sought, result in deep faith and trust.


Well, our hike met the criteria. Above the tree line. Above 5,000 feet. A loop. So now it's official. Our time of living in Switzerland, at least at this point, is done. It's been a time of great highs and some pain in reaching them. But well worth the effort, every step of the way.