Zug - 29 April 2024

29.04 - Tintin’s birthday 🥳 - Zug

It was quite peaceful in the Fiat service place overnight - well until a car alarm repeatedly went off about 04.30!

Had a cup of tea at 06.30 - and went in as soon as they opened. The man on reception didn’t speak English - but phoned a friend who came down. We left it that he’d phone to find out how long it would take to get the necessary part from Turin - said it would cost about CHF 350…

We made use of the facilities (after asking) and serviced Dave. Before we’d even left, the man (don’t even know his name - and he doesn’t know ours!) said we could go back and they would fit us in at 13.30 tomorrow! They’re really busy, mohos everywhere - so we’re grateful they can fit us in - should only take a couple of hours…

So that meant I could book going to the Lindt chocolate experience up near Zürich. I’d looked previously, you have to book online as it’s so popular. The available first slot is Friday - so have booked for then 😊

Tintin drove today. We needed to get a few bits of food. Found a Lidl - height restriction of 2.8m - no good for us! Tintin waited outside, whilst I nipped in. Shame - was a huge shop - could have bought more! Anyway, essentials bought - and onto a park above Zug. About 50 minutes drive in total. 

Birthday boy likes green pastures, snowy mountains in the distance - and cycling in nature - so that’s what we did. 

First up - birthday donut - no home bakes or Colin the Caterpiller here!

Had a chat with Jamie, then had lunch, then off on the bikes. 

Tintin wanted to go up, so up and up we went - probably 30 minutes all up. Beautiful views over the Zugersee lake. 

All senses fulfilled! Had red kites fighting over head, the smell of fresh grass everywhere. So many cows, sheep and goats.  We even rode so high there was still snow!

It was a privilege to see some cows being allowed out of their huge farm shed, and being led up the road. Unless interpretation was wrong, we think it’s their first time out to summer pasture. Some were reluctant at first, and wanted to go back through the closed door - they were a bit frisky too - hopefully excited. 

12 miles cycle - felt like mainly up!

Then we had a chat with Sarah and Herc. They have the almost impossible decision to make - which puppy (or dog!) do they choose. They have a couple more days of helping - which may consolidate their wish list…

It’s been warmish weather, a bit hazy now. We’re on the Aperol spritz again tonight - so better finish this before drinking anymore!

Happy birthday Tintin 😘🎉🎂🥳🎈🎊🎁 - sorry - none of the last emoji!