Frogs, Swings, and Buckets of Sunshine

I was just going through my photos from Annecy (which, by the way, was fantabulous), when I realized I never really posted photos from last week's hike.

Last week, myself, Ben, and a whole heap of friends headed for the Gruyere hills. I've been to the Gruyere region several times now-- to eat cheese, to eat chocolate, to explore a castle-- and while I've always admired its beauty, this was the first time I really explored the Gruyere on foot.

Needless to say, it was stunning. Beautiful scenery. Wonderful friends. Perfect Day.

a bit big for a hiking group, but we had a very relaxed attitude the whole
time. so very, very fun.

snack stop number one. 

I love mountains, but these hills are pretty spectacular as well. maybe
because they remind me of home?

the first of many, many frogs. naturally, ben put it in his
frisbee. (also- this is the highlighter yellow lisbon
shirt! isn't it awesome?!)

mountain lake. or maybe pond?

more frogs. most folks were a little grossed out by them, but I actually
thought they were kind of cool....

not joking about the frogs. this is a hand-painted frog
crossing sign. ridiculous.

on the bridge: me, mikeal, marcela.

most of us crossed the creek via bridge. ben decided to wade/jump/climb
across. typical :)

obstacles. 

as always: I am in LOVE with this place. 

break number two: we discover the awesome, homemade SWING. 

I think every trail should have a couple of swings on it, don't you? 

so much fun! ben is a pretty intense swing-pusher :)

swings and sunshine-- what more do you need?

lovely.  

one of my favorite things about switzerland: the water is
potable! all of it! 

post hike treat: ice cream sundae with chocolate ice cream,
coffee syrup, and cream from the lovely gruyere cows.
yum!