When I was a kid and my father was upset with me he used to tell me that I lived in a fairytale world and that things were not always going to be like in a Disney movie. Yes Pappa, you were right, life is rarely like a Disney movie. But there are moments in my life where I think,  ” OMG, I am riding a train somewhere close to Ariel’s Castle.”  Or,   ” Yes, rural France is exactly where Belle lived. “

This past weekend it was  ” Wow,  I just walked into the 7 Dwarfs bedroom. ”  It was in the small town of Grainau, Germany,  in the Bavarian Alps, that I spent my weekend. A  charming place where you can ski, hike, and become one with the Winter wonderland. I am not really a skier. I mean I went once at Boler mountain in London, Ontario, but that barely counts. And I have had a few snowboard lessons in the past years. But stepping into the Alpine Ski world, and in this location, one of the tallest mountains in Germany, is another story. I have always been petrified, maybe that is why I have barely attempted.  Especially because to every German, skiing is like riding a bike. Or for the case of a better metaphor, like well, breathing. But, as I found out, it is really very enjoyable. My sporty body adapted from slope to slope and I had a great time ( that is before the 3 days after when I could barely walk ).  I welcome you skiing with open arms and I am happy to meet you again some day.

Some of the photos below are from the Austrian side of the Zugspitze Ski run, taking with my waterproof point and shoot. The others from our walks around the area including the Eibsee Lake and our cozy weekend home. Thanks so much for the invitation Patrick and Anni, I want to visit again for sure.