In September, Swiss farmers bring their milk cows down from the alps, where they have spent the summer grazing in heaven and producing heavenly milk. From the milk the farmers make heavenly cheese. The return from the alps (alpabfahrt) is an annual celebration in many locations in Switzerland. The farmers dress in traditional costume and they deck the cows in flowers to express appreciation for their generous gift of milk. The best producers have the most flowers and carry the biggest bells.
We went to Schupfheim to witness a celebration. These celebrations are after the tourist season, and the town is full of locals. It was very down home and wonderful.
On his birthday in March, we had promised Sergio a tour in the Emmenthal, because he had never been there. Here we are enjoying lunch yesterday at a lovely little "farmer" restaurant in Emmenthal.
A milking stool on the left and cow bells. These were on display in the restaurant.
Today, before the parade, we saw these darling girls dressed in typical Bern traditional dress.
The parade has begun, and we see children dancing. You can see musicians seated in the street to the left making the dancing music. Marlies arranged for us to have reserved seats on the balcony of their hotel!
Perfect!
A yodeling club, walking along casually with their hands in their pockets and yodeling
The best producers for this family
The alphorn players
The farmers and their families are obviously proud of their beautiful cows.
All the family helps! These aren't miniature cows, but goats. They return with the cows, as do the chickens and rabbits we saw in cart baskets.
Isn't she beautiful?
A performance of yodelers and alphorns after the parade
We bought cheese from this family.
After the parade we are waiting here in this tent set up for eating. Our waiter will bring the brats and pomme frits (french fries). From left, Sergio, Claude and Brigitte Fluckiger (who organized the day for us) me, Greti, and Marlies.
Gathering . . .
Preparing the agenda during the prelude.
Super achievers fulfilled all the requirements for the zone award last transfer.
Hanging out in the Institute Center for just a few minutes before the meeting.
And some new faces in the zone . . .
. . . and the mission! 
Gathering . . .
Preparing the agenda during the prelude.
Super achievers fulfilled all the requirements for the zone award last transfer.
Hanging out in the Institute Center for just a few minutes before the meeting.
And some new faces in the zone . . .
. . . and the mission! 
