Neighbors Helping Neighbors…Truly a Benefit

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“There is nothing good, unless you do it!” or in the original German “Es gibt nichts Gutes, außer man tut es” this is the motto of NachbarschaftsHilfe Schliersee. They truly represent this quote by supporting the people of Schliersee.

For the past three years, the Bauerntheater with its beautiful and traditionally painted wooden interior has been the backdrop for this talent packed benefit concert. The goal of this talent packed event each year is to gather enough funds to help them offer the supportive programs to those who might need them in the community. To encourage more participants in their very needed group as well as draw attention to their many causes as well as to just bring everyone out to have a great time.

Just a sampling of a few of the much needed programs that NachbarschaftsHilfe Schliersee offers are Dementia help and support, Parkinson’s support and help for the hearing impaired. Something that I know from my own experience which is incredibly important is 24 hour Dementia help. After the first benefit concert the group was able to purchase a car to provide rides to doctors appointments and other necessary excursions. These programs are made possible by the donations of others and are incredibly needed and necessary.

This past Sunday was this years benefit concert. Side by side the residents of Schliersee gather to sit and enjoy local talent. This year we were treated to a culture packed afternoon provided by the operatic trio of Bettina Schoeller, Carlo Schraml and Timm Tzschaschel, the composer on piano. They sang many classic songs to which the audience were encouraged to sing along as well. A table covered with delicious homemade cakes and pastries, donated by local bakeries,  line the walls giving fragrance to the air. Voices lifted in song and hearts lifted in laughter, there is no better way to bring a community together.

If you are visiting Schliersee or are a resident, this annual event is not to be missed. For more information about what this integral organization does for the community, please visit their webpage and consider contributing to this very important program.

 

NachbarschaftsHilfe
https://www.nbh-schliersee.de/über-uns/erfolgreiche-benefiz-veranstaltung/

 

 

 

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

Feel the Burn & Get Stacking

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There is a universal saying, that wood warms a person three times; once when you cut it; once when you stack it; and once when you burn it.

 

This was told to me in my first year in Schliersee by the man delivering my firewood. I think he saw panic in my face the moment I realized I faced days of moving and stacking seven Stere of wood. To give you a little perspective on firewood sizes. A “Stere” is the German measurement of wood. In the US we measure our firewood by “cord” which measures four feet high by four feet wide by eight feet long (4 ft. x 4 ft. x 8 ft.) and has a volume of 128 cubic feet. The German measurement, “Stere” measures 1 cubic meter. That is a heaping pile of winter heat.

 

What is wonderful about wood other than its warming properties, is that wood is sustainable. We made a plan when we decided to rent an old Bavarian farmhouse or “Landhaus” we would install the best Swedish style wood stove and heat the house using wood as much as possible as a way to cut cots.

 

As you wander around Schliersee in autumn you will be keenly aware that it is time to start planning the year’s firewood order. Heavily laden trucks and tractors are on the streets bringing the residents their wood deliveries. Many times you might see small mountains of wood occupying someone’s parking place in front of the home and everyone is busily moving and precisely arranging and stacking their woodpiles.

 

These diligently and impressively exact stores of logs are creatively tucked into any spare covered nook and cranny. Under bench seats, as bench seats and climbing right up into the eaves.These towers of future warmth become architectural features, not just utilitarian lumps of lumber to hide out back. Many are simply works of art which bring not only a warmth to the inside of Schliersee homes but also add a welcoming dimension of home and hearth to the beautiful exteriors of local buildings both modern and historic.

 

 

I hope some of these designs inspire you to get “stacking” and add a bit of Bavarian Schliersee flare to your home this winter season.

 

Here’s some more interesting firewood facts:

 

FIVE BEST BURNING TREE SPECIES

Hickory – 25 to 28 million BTUs/cord – density 37 to 58 lbs./cu.ft.

Oak – 24 to 28 million BTUs/cord – density 37 to 58 lbs./cu.ft.

Black Locust – 27 million BTUs/cord – density 43 lbs./cu.ft.

Beech – 24 to 27 million BTUs/cord – density 32 to 56 lbs./cu.ft.

White Ash – 24 million BTUs/cord – density 43 lbs./cu.ft.

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

Schliersee…So Much More Than Cows

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After several years of obsessively photographing the various local Almabtriebs, this year I was sent a very kind invitation to come and experience another lovely local farming event. The Schafprämierung, in english we would call it a sheep “Best in Show” which, also included goats. This event is held each year in Tegernsee at Kohlhauf-Hof.

Sadly, after many years of great weather, this year the event received a complete soaking due to the remnants of hurricane Maria. Though the weather dampened everything, animal and people alike, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the farmers and young breeders.

Despite the weather, the atmosphere was a festive one. Of course there was a small local traditional band playing and the air was fragrant with hot homemade stews, sausages and lamb steaks. Never to be forgotten at any German gathering, an entire table of delicious homemade cakes. Local vendors set up booths and sold various hand made products like  cattle bells and sheep’s wool items.  An amazing weaver from Miesbach brought her traditional Bavarian style loom carpets while women carded and spun wool. For the children a class was offered on felting wool and they really enjoyed.

Representing Schliersee was Franz Leitner (junior). His families beautiful farm, Kirchbergerhof is located in the  Fischhausen part of Schliersee. Franz was showing his magnificent Alpine Steinschaff. Through this event I learned In 2009 the Alpines Steinschaf was named “endangered livestock breed of the year” so its cultivation and care are very important to the breeds survival. It was great to be there in support of a fellow Schlierseer.

What stole my heart were the happy faces of the young breeders, Jungzuchter, who were showing their sheep for the first time. Watching the connection of these young children and their much loved and trusting sheep was precious. The joy of the parents and grandparents who could share their passion for animal husbandry was written all over their faces. These traditions of local farming if not taught and shared might one day might sadly die out. Sharing and teaching them to the younger generations helps to keep the traditions alive. Their joy just fills you with pride for this beautiful alpine land and its people.

I am sure there were technical aspects of a Schafprämierung which were very important for the health of these local breeds but for me it was the joy of community that I most took away from the day. The excitement of seeing the results of the years hard work, breeding and caring for these sweet faced creatures. The sheep were definitely the stars and their personalities shined through. Many of the sheep tried nibbling on the serious judges aprons causing them to break from their important stoic roles into warm laughter.

 

 

The judges took great care to check each animal thoroughly for particular signs of good breeding. The health and care given to every animal was judged accordingly to a strict standard.

 

Unfortunately, although I was properly attired for the weather, myself and my camera encased in gore-tex for protection I ended up getting soaked to the skin which sadly brought and end to my visit.

 

 

For more information on Schafprämierung and events:
http://www.alpinetgheep.com/news-bayern.html

To learn how you can stay at the beautiful Kirchbergerhof farm:

http://www.kirchbergerhof.info/frame-index.html

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

It’s Wander Time in Schliersee

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Autumn is the time to wander in Schliersee. All those beautiful breezes and cooler temperatures make long hikes so much more enjoyable.  And lets not forget the way the warmer light illuminates the Fall colors. It is seriously and endless treat for the senses.

I thought I would share with you an incredible hike I took a few years back. I had just had major surgery and wasn’t feeling strong enough to tackle a monster climb but the alpine hills were calling me.

My husband and I set out by Taubensteinbahn cable car on Spitzingsee. We really didn’t have a goal in mind but the sky was full of otherworldly lenticular clouds fueled by a Chinook winds. Once at the top we were spurred on, higher and higher by the majestic views and all the other wanderers of all ages.

We followed a reasonably easy trail winding around the mountain and at the craggy summit we could see the famous Rotwandhaus, nestled on its perch just below us. All around people and their dogs were breaking their hike and basking in the autumn sun. It was such a peaceful moment in the golden light.

Due to our late departure, my husband said we needed to start back down the trail towards the cable car station if we wanted to make the last car, or we could go have a drink and something to eat at the Rotwandhaus and walk the 7 kilometers back down the mountain to Spitzingsee.

What a wonderful decision that was, after a leisurely snack of meats and cheese presented as beautifully as the landscape they were served in, we began the trek down the mountain. All around us as we traveled were animals gathered to enjoy the last of their days in the high pastures. On a whole the walk down was an easy 7 kilometer walk and I highly recommend this journey for those who might not feel fit enough to complete the entire 14+ kilometer climb. The duration of the hike down the mountain for us, with many continuous breaks for photos, was 3 hours. Remember to budget that into your time and just incase pack some headlamps.

Some good tips and information about Taubensteinbahn and Rotwandhaus.

Taubensteinbahn is open daily in autumn from 9:00 till 16:30. This cable car is closed in winter completely. A one way ride costs 10,00 € per person.  If you decide not to walk down you have to buy your ticket back to the valley and that is is 9,50 €.  Children ride for free

For more information please call : +49 8026 92922913

For information on the Rotwandhaus http://rotwandhaus.de/rotwandhaus/anfahrt-kontakt/

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

Da summa is außi -The Summer is Over

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After a long peaceful summer with the cows dotted lazily about in alpine pastures we are reaching the final climax of a successful season. There is such peace and tranquility in these days filled with the long golden light of autumn.

As the many tourists begin to head back to their homes and sometimes stressful lives, a calm sets on our land here in Schliersee. Daily life and Bavarian traditions return once more. Though the animals on the mountains seem blissfully unaware. I am sure somewhere in their DNA their internal clocks are ticking away their time of freedom under the great big sky is ending.

Soon their farmer will return, one last time, to guide them on their long journey back to the valley and the familiarity of their farms. Their big day of celebration will soon be upon them and  their joyful reunion with the other animals from the farmstead.

To wander in these final moments amongst the cows and they lay about like lizards sunning themselves accompanied by the tinkling of the bells as they groom. I can honestly say there is a feeling of serenity that takes over and you just can’t help but smile.

At this time the swallows dash about gathering the last of the insects for fuel for their next journeys. Everything on the mountains seems to preparing for their next adventure. With the shorter days and cooler temperatures signaling all that the big change is near. Some may call it as the last breath of summer.

In each season here in Schliersee, from the mountain peaks to the shores of our green lakes there is magic to be found.

 

 

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

“Aufbuschen” Keeping Traditions Alive

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For three years now I have had the joy of spontaneously capturing photos of a particular Schliersee family as they passed by my house in Neuhaus during their Almabtrieb. On one occasion I managed to hand the daughter Magda a business card and thus began our dialog.

This year I was determined to learn more about the back story of Almabtrieb. Who does what and what does it all mean? I received a wonderful invitation from the Bucher family of Unterrißhof in Schliersee, to join them several days before their cattle drive to prepare the decorations.

“Aufbuschen” is a regional world for the process of crafting the various colorful decorations for the cows for Almabtrieb. Many headdresses for the cows are made using an armature that is handed down through the family over the years and is formed in the initials of the farmer. An important armature to which the bouquets of wild alpine rhododendron “Almrausch” are affixed is the crown shape which sit atop the head of the lead cow. The symbolism and traditions of Almabtrieb are centuries old. Though the cows will ultimately each autumn be driven down from the high pastures back to the farm, it is not fact if they will or will not be decorated. The cows are only decorated if it has been a safe and successful summer. This means simply no tragic loss of life. It is only then that a farmer will decorate their cattle.

The farm of Bauernhof Unterrißhof, enjoys one of the most spectacular views in Schliersee. That is truly something to say since there isn’t honestly a bad view of Schliersee. It is located just off the beaten path the drive in alone is pretty magical and affords you endless beautiful views around each tree lined bend.

One sunny September afternoon, I arrived heart leaping for joy over the experience and the view. In the Baurenhof garage everyone was gathered and everything was perfectly organized. The floor was covered with tray after tray of bright colored hand made paper streamer and flowers. This collection obviously represented many long hours of handwork. Leaning against the garage wall were the leather headdresses with the prickly pine branches just waiting to be shaped and decorated. I asked Markus Bucher, Uncle of Magda, can you still buy the headdresses anymore and he told me they were Austrian and that saddle makers there still make them in the traditional way.

After a quick introduction and explanation we tucked right into the work. It was all so beautifully planned and organized that even this American was able just step in and help. I asked if the style of the decorations were always the same and they said no each year the each family tries to add something new and exciting. That year for the Bucher family, there was a flower with an almost rainbow color scheme in the center that they weren’t too sure about right up to when they flowers were attached to the bush. It was a pleasant surprise how nicely the color scheme worked.

As we were finishing up work, the young son of Markus arrived from his after school dance lesson of the traditional Bavarian Schuhplattler. He excitedly and deftly jumped right in to work. I was amazed at how he at such a young age, happily began bringing in the various wagonloads of giant cowbells to be cleaned and polished. He was obviously an expert. I have to admit I have been photographing this young man for the past few years and I was astounded back then at his confidence and ability to drive a 2000 pound cow through busy streets and I was no less impressed with him now.

Working side by side, preparing for this families yearly event to give thanks for a successful year was truly wonderful. I kept hearing in my head “Many hands make light work” and it was true. No only did the time fly by but I learned so much from each generation about their passion for keeping these important traditions alive.

 

 

You too can enjoy the view and stay with the Bucher family at Unterrisshof. To find out more about their availabilities:

http://www.unterriss-hof.de
http://www.unterriss-hof.de/almhuette-am-spitzingsee/index.html

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

Stickl Open Air Concert /Music in the Mountains

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This year on the evening 12 August, the mountains rumble with the sound of music. The nor-mally quiet Wirtshaus Cafe Stickl in Neuhaus hosts an Open Air concert showcasing many of our local bands. On the list for this year’s bands were “Vuizlaud”, “V:O:I”, “ Redwine Company” and “Facebarraxxx” and directing all the fun from behind his turntable, DJ Aka the Wolfman.

Lederhosen and biker leathers dance side by side as each band enters the stage. Grandmoth-ers and teenagers party together. It is just a gathering of music lovers. The energy was great and the talent is real.

This event is not your average grill party. The tree-covered biergarten of Stickl quickly fills up with music lovers of all ages. Tickets are available on the night and you will just need to follow the vibrating beats to find the location just behind Wirtshaus Café Stickl.

On the menu for purchase beyond the price of your 7€ entrance fee are coffee, cocktails and plenty of alcohol free options. If grilled meat and bratwurst don’t peak your interest there are al-ternative options like fish sandwiches, spinach ravioli and sticky doughnuts.

Carina Baumann, the boss of the Café, is new to the job starting January 2015. This was her first year organizing the event and I am sure this will not be the last. I highly recommend mark-ing your calendar for next August to start watching Café Stickl’s Facebook page for their 2018 Open Air Concert.

 

https://www.facebook.com/Wirtshaus-Cafe-Stickl-1633775593505650/

https://www.facebook.com/pg/vuizlaud/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1288074701301371

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

Bavarian Highland Games 2017

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It happens each year in our picturesque little alpine village….and invasion by sweaty grunting super humans in kilts. The Bavarian Highland Games are hosted each September by the Wasmeier Museum.

Like thunder through the alps, these games which have become emblematic of Scotland, along with bagpipes, the kilt, and these games showing local feats of strength. Many of the events at the Bavarian Highland Games will be recognizable as events well known in traditional games but here in Schliersee they have bit of Boarisch (Bavarian) flavor to them.

Caber toss – des Hopfabamaschmeiß´n
Stone Put – An Stoa weit
Scottish hammer throw
Weight over the bar – Gwicht hoch
Tug o’ War – des Strickziag´n
Egg – Toss – des Eiertratz´n
Keg Toss and Keg Roll  – des Faß´l roll`n

And many many more….

It is a true test of local strength. Both men and women participate and both

sexes are truly impressive. Spectators pack around the events ring and perch on the grassy hillside for best visibility. It is definitely a great day in the summer sun. Bring your thirst as you won’t want to miss a big cold mug of Wasmeiers historic home brew.

You can come and see these magnificent Bavarian bodies for yourself at the 7th annual Bavarian Highland Games being held on 3 September 2017 from 10 am till 1700 at the Markus Wasmeier Freilichtmuseums in Schliersee.

http://www.wasmeier.de/veranstaltungen/vii-highland-games-schliersee/

 

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

Seaside Cocktails and Alpine Sunsets

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Located between the Vitalwelt Kurpark and the Schliersee tour boat dock, jutting out on its own little peninsula, sits the colorful cozy Kiosk am See. It affords you one of the most spectacular views across the lake and up into the mountains. Locals know this to be one of the magical spots to meet friends at sunset for cocktails.

Last week while out on an evening walk around the lake with a girlfriend we were drawn in by the warm breezes and twinkle lights. We were lucky enough to find an ambiance soaked table directly on the water but we could have enjoyed laying back in comfortable lounge chairs under tropical grass umbrellas.

What really brought us in was the talk of the amazing cocktails, and amazing they were. We ordered a drink full of ripe strawberries, tart limes and Prosecco. It was so light and refreshing and the color was divine. I highly recommend making a batch for your next BBQ with friends or if you in Schliersee make your way down to the boat landing and the Kiosk am See. If you are not an alcohol drinker they had plenty of alcohol free choices to enjoy with that spectacular view.

 

Ingredients

You can make your own strawberry purée very simply by mashing up a container of ripe local strawberries, reserving a few to decorate the rim of your champagne flutes, and squeezing fresh lime juice over the top. If your strawberries aren’t sweet enough add a teaspoon of sugar and store in the fridge. This purée can also be made with frozen strawberries as well.  If you can find it this purée is available as a drink mix in Rewe and many other stores.

  • 3 tablespoons fresh strawberry purée yield from about 2 large berries
  • 1/2 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/3 – 1/2 cup pink champagne prosecco or other sparkling wine, well chilled, or regular
  • Additional strawberries lime wedges and mint sprigs for garnish (optional)

 

Instructions

1      Mix the strawberry purée with the lime juice and pour it into a champagne flute. Carefully top with the champagne and garnish before serving immediately.

ZUM WOHL and remember to raise a glass to another beautiful day in Schliersee.

 

To learn more about Kiosk am See and their boat rentals please visit their webpage.

 

http://www.schlierseeschifffahrt.de/kiosk-am-see/
http://www.schlierseeschifffahrt.de

 

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).

 

 

 

Bergseefest Spitzingsee 2017

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DAS BERGSEEFEST WURDE AUFGRUND DER SCHLECHTEN WETTERPROGNOSEN LEIDER ERSATZLOS ABGESAGT!

Folk dancing, firemen and fireworks all light up the sky above the mountains on Spitzingsee. Once a year the peaks sparkle with festival lights and fireworks. Bergseefest  and its Bengali fires is what makes it extra special. The light spectacle of firemen in the water with torches and boats by lantern light dot the lake before the sky is turned aflame with a fireworks display.

The Autumn’s chill is usually starting to touch the air on Spitzingsee in August and folks warm themselves by bonfire while enjoying many of the regional delicacies.  Fresh local lake fish are roasted on long sticks and giant frying pans of caramelized pancakes and rum soaked fruits called Kaiserschmarren scent the air. There is no shortage of delicious treats to enjoy.

Local beers and small cocktail stands dot the edge of the lake.  Carriage rides and bouncy castles for all the family to enjoy.  If that isn’t enough the traditional Old Timer and historic tractor parade on Saturday morning draws the crowds.

On the main stage, local traditional dancers twirl while overhead the bull whip masters called Goaßlschnalzern, fearlessly snap their whips. There is a little something for everyone and is popular with all ages. Cheerleaders and martial artist as well as many other shows each hour.

This fest is truly fun for the whole family. There are plenty of wonderfully creative events for the kids, from face painting to camel rides. And don’t forget, during the day you can always rent a bright red Ferrari peddle boat and take a turn around the lake. Make sure to pack an extra jacket for the chilly evening’s on the mountain.

Rain Date for Saturday’s fireworks will take place on Sunday, July 30th

 

For more information:
http://www.schliersee.de/sommer/kultur-lebensart/feste/

 

 

Laura Boston-Thek

American artist, photographer and professional wanderer who, after 20 years of roaming, put down roots in a 100 year old Bavarian farmhouse and fell in love with the Alpine village and its residents (both 2-legged and 4-legged).