Snow Means Sleighrides

So there are 3 things I want to mention.  The first I've noticed for a while, but now it has developed a tinge of irony.  Germans love to wear board shorts to the gym.  I'm talking bright, colorful floral patterns down to their knees and with drawstrings.  It's um, well an interesting fashion statement because they are usually paired with euro-esque tennis shoes also often brightly colored and a graphic tee.  Initially I thought it was funny, but now that it's -12 and snowing--working out in board shorts may just be a bit of wishful thinking...

Second:  Kids in Berlin have it MADE.  It's sort of adorable and I really need to get a picture of it, but the snow has fallen and out pop the sleighs.  Parents all over are dragging their kids behind them on these little sleighs.  I must say I'm totally jealous.  I'll have to figure out a way to get a picture of it, or better, to get a ride on one, although I don't think it would support my body weight.

Third:  Christmas Markets are pretty sweet.  I'm not a HUGE fan of Christmas and I hate crowds, so one might think that I would not be a fan of Weihnachtsmarkte (Christmas Markts), but there is something charming about them here.  It is sort of like an art show where artisans have their booths in bavarian style huts selling their goods and then there are tons of food stands (which is obviously my favorite) selling sweets, savorys, and gluhwein.  Also, did you know gingerbread is originally a German thing?  I guess it makes sense...seeing as Hansel and Gretel is a German fable.  Anyway, I must say I'm a fan of the Christmas Markets and I will be photo documenting one as soon as I remember to take my camera with me.

Language Update:  So I guess you could say I've made progress with my Deutsch.  Primarily in writing, the grammar is coming along nicely.  Unfortunately as I learn more, I realize more and more complexities about German and really I'm at a point of mass frustration.  I've decided I need to get more serious about the conversation aspect so I am heading over to a friend's now to just practice speaking.