Early morning, Saas-Fee.
This is the view that greets us each day as we make our way to the main hotel for breakfast. The weather has been perfect. One day of rain, one good thunderstorm and the rest of the time clear, some puffy clouds hugging the mountains or wisps floating around and inspiring ponderings.
Yesterday was full and great.
I went out painting with one of my classmates and just sat by the river and did watercolour sketches of the rocks and tumbling water while the river roared in our ears.



After evening classes, we got to enjoy some of the Swiss National Day festivities. In the centre of town there is a square where all activities pertaining to culture occur. Last night there were fireworks in all directions, which in the mountains is a whole different auditory experience! The best part was the dancing! There was a live band on a stage that also included a large dance floor. The music was far from traditional Swiss! It was North American rock from the 80's and 90's. Bruce Springstein, Cheryl Crowe and, yes - believe it or not - Shania Twain. It was a blast from the past and we made the most of it! Practically our entire class, in addition to a number of other EGS folks rocked the stage and infused the joint with our crazy energy. We are all feeling it today as we head to class after a 1:30 a.m. bedtime.






The square was packed with people, long tables with food and wine and hanging flags and lanterns. This yount lady was thoroughly enjoying her sparkler - and I was thoroughly enjoying her.

Even thought it looks as if we have been drinking all night, Karen and I are just enjoying the freedom from school and the comraderie of our classmates. I had a glass of wine, but most of it disappeared. When I came back from dancing, the waitress had removed it. I was having too much fun dancing to care whether I had a drink or not!



I don't know what these flowers are called, but I love them. They are a type of Alpine succulent that grows in clusters about six inches to a foot high on the sunny mountain sides. The forested sides have different flora. I also love the variety and quantity of butterflies here. This one doesn't even look real.

I only have two more days of school left and then a wrap-up. Sunday I will meet Don and Karl here in Saas-Fee and begin the travel portion of my Merry Swiss Miss adventure.