What a Lovely Day For a Picnic

I've always been a fan of cheese, but ever since coming to France/Switzerland, I cannot go into a grocery store without buying a block. For anyone who knows me, I'm a huge foodie and, when able, make my way into a grocery store nearly daily. But the cheese is just so good here! And affordable. I've had blue cheese, goat cheeses, creamy bries, unidentifiable cheeses--and I have been obsessed with each cheese. And of course, let's not forget about the lovely baguettes and jams that must accompany any cheese tasting. Freshly baked baguettes are less than a euro. France caps the price of the bread, so it's always kept extremely reasonable. The jams come in every variety imaginable, and each are made locally. What could be better?

This past Saturday a few of us went to Lausanne (a Swiss town on Lake Geneva) for a day trip. We hit up a market beforehand to be picnic-ready. We found ourselves a nice park, and the weather was so sunny, it was like it was urging us to picnic there. So we did. Fresh baguettes, 3 varieties of cheeses, prosciutto, salami, and all. 

Aaron and David picnicing!

Luke, David, Aaron and I at Lausanne.

 After our picnic we walked around an outdoor market that was being held in Lausanne. There was singing, dancing, cooking, kites--all in all, so much energy! There were dozens of stands all selling something different. And many of the food stands had samples. I was happy.

 After the park we made our way to the cathedral in Lausanne. This is probably one of my favorite things about Europe: everywhere you go is rich in history and architecture. You just don't get that in the States--especially in art deco Miami. We finished our day at Lake Geneva, where we went for a dip in the freezing cold water, and came out tougher and able to conquer anything. Hopefully.

Entrance to Cathedral D'Laussane

Lake Geneva

 And of course, no picnic would be complete without some homemade gelato to finish it off. I can definitely foresee regular picnics, and a fridge devoted to cheese and jam. I am already starting to pick out my favorite patisseries, gelaterias, and fromageries. This is shaping up to be a very good (and delicious!) summer. 

Gelato anyone?