winter walk with friends both furry and femme

a snowy day for "the magnificent seven"

snow flakes and reverie

It's snowing here today, our first "snow day" of the school year. 

Perhaps it's the snow, perhaps it's the time of year,

or perhaps it's that I recently posted pics from Staufen's market,

but my mind has instantly gone to this winding drive my husband and I took 

through the Black Forest.

Schwarzwald in Germany, 

the home of childhood fantasy and fairy tale.

Hansel and Gretel.

Snow White.  Little Red Riding Hood.  

Brothers Grimm.  

Instantly, my mind is swept to this stunning red chapel 

perched in the center of a mountain curve. 

"Stop the car!"

I had to get out.

Suddenly my inner tourist

snapping away through car windows 

was no longer satisfied.  

This little gem beckoned...

a perfect red apple, 

casting its spell.

winter market

It's been so cold and dreary lately;

I thought tinderheart could use some color.

Fittingly, these pictures were taken just last February

on the town square of Staufen, Germany.

Two mornings each week, vendors roll out carts filled 

with with flowers, vegetables, cured meats, and even some hand-crafted items.

I can't quite say which I enjoyed more,

photographing these glorious delights,

or watching the shoppers fill their wicker baskets

and ride away on their bicycles.

baby bump

To watch and feel her foal

moving around inside this mamma's belly

was the greatest thrill I have experienced

in quite a while!

Stay tuned...