Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

Friday, December 7 Back in California we joke about having "snow days" but, instead of snowing, the rain is pouring down. Today in Switzerland we had a real snow day. The weather forecaster gave us three snow flakes starting mid-morning. Sure enough, at 10:00 the snow started. Lightly at first, and then heavier almost by the minute. We decided if we were going to get out of the house, we had to do it soon. Going to far from home was out of the question so we headed toward the nearby town of Echallens. My niece lived there several years back so knew the places to shop. The first stop was at the cheese shop, but not for cheese. Rather, they carry as very local white honey. Purchase made, we decided it was time for coffee and a pastry. After all, this is the French speaking part of Switzerland so a late morning coffee and pastry is always in order. My niece recommended a local pastry that consisted of a bread type crust layered with a lemon-cream. It was served like a piece of pie on a plane white plate and a white napkin. So French. The combination of the strong coffee, the sweet crust and the slight tartness of the lemon-cream will not soon be forgotten. Upon leaving, we also bought bread for fondue for lunch tomorrow. It was hard to leave the pastry shop and face the snow and cold, but it had to be done. By the time we made it to the car, we were as white as snowmen. The wind has also increased and was blowing the snow across the roadways. Yes, it was time to head for home. With a little slipping and siding along the way, we made it without major incident. The rest of the afternoon was spend playing with the children and watching a little TV. Closer to dinner I took my niece's oldest daughter and braving the weather, we walked to the local grocery store for vegetables (for soup), bread and wine for dinner. I'm getting a little more confident wondering around and shopping by myself. I even know when the check-out clerk asks me if I have a "frequent shopper" card. Being from SLO county, I also remember to bring my own shopping bag. The weather forecast is calling for more snow tomorrow, but if it's not too bad, we'll venture out again in search of Swiss treasures. But in the meantime, let it snow, let it snow, and let it snow.