Day 58 - Creatures of Habit

Today we explored Muenster with the lovely G, S, and A (My cousin, his wife and their daughter). Saturdays in their house have a very nice routine which we were lucky enough to take part in. The day starts with a trip to the bakery where A is known by name, and gets her very own roll for free. Then home for breakfast, which is still my favourite German meal. After breakfast it's off to the market - that`s the ultimate goal anyway. We take a pleasant and roundabout way to get there.

First, we stop by a few churches (not always a part of the routine, but A is a patient kid) In Ludgeri Kirche (church) there is a statue of Jesus with no arms; only the words "You are my arms." A expects churches to have music, and when this one proves quiet, we move on to our next destination, the shopping center pharmacy with a wooden "Hoppa" (rocking horse). Another kid was riding it when we arrived, but A shot him thunderous glances until he gave way. Funny thing, as A was rocking, another little girl came up and waited in the exact same spot with the exact same expression. It`s as if the kids have an unwritten code that they must stand at a certain distance, that they may not push or shove, but that there is no limit to how much they may glare.

From the pharmacy we wandered over to the market square, a bustling outdoor market selling all sorts of specialty goods. In particular, the meat stall we visit makes all of its products from a rare and very old breed of pig that they are promoting and helping to preserve. Their pigs all live a full and happy life with plenty of sunshine and outdoor pens before becoming sausages.

Of course A is known by name here too and recieves her due treats from each stall.

The market is in the square of the cathedral. It was tall and lovely, in the way of cathedrals, and had a huge blue and yellow stained glass window that I liked very much.

G and S ferried us around a bit more, showing us various streets and telling us about town traditions and festivals. Soon though, it was time for A's nap, so we were left to explore on our own. We had planned on puttering around for a little while and then on going to the Picasso Museum. We got distracted by bookstores, and never made it to the museum. A pity, as I like Picasso's work, but there are other museums and other paintings, and we did have a lovely time.

S had a social obligation for the evening, so G, A, Cz and I all went out for dinner. The first restaurant we tried had a very long wait, so we opted on a mediterranian place closer to home. It was delicious, and A charmed the waitress to the point that after dinner she was escorted back to the kitchen, and returned to us sucking a strawberry lolly.

When it was time to go home G offered that she could either ride in her stroller and keep her lolly, or that she could walk and let him carry the candy (she could choke if she walked with it). After a moment of thought, she passed G the candy. Surprising, as this is a kid who really likes her sweets. BUT... as soon as G's back was turned she promptly produced a second lolly from her pocket! That kid is way too smart for her own good.

Back home we enjoyed wine and more conversation. All in all a very fine day!