March 8 and 9 - Ponte Tresa, Agno, and hikes!

Yesterday, March 8th, I took the train to Ponte Tresa to check out the Italian market. It was a nice morning, but hazier, and I am SO glad I took my trip up to Monte Bré yesterday, when the skies were super clear! 

On the way to the market I noticed that in Agno (along the train route), there was a festival going on, so on my way back I got off the train. It was like a county fair. They had logging demonstrations, big farming tractors, and many farm animals. They also had lots of food, arts and crafts for sale, and rides for the kids. 

I love just "happening" upon things. It's always a surprise! 

Today, March 9, I took a shorter morning hike along the mountainside just above our house, and then an afternoon walk along the former Lugano-Cadro-Dino train line. A pleasant day - sunshine and no wind. Very relaxing. 

Here are a few pictures along my mountain hike. I often stop, turn around, and take time to observe things around me. So much time is spent watching where my feet are going. It's important to stop and enjoy. My hike made a loop, finishing up by the main church in Pregassona. The funny thing about hiking in Switzerland - sometimes the path takes you right through someone's property. I walked right  past some sheep - no fence. So funny how they just stared at me! 

And remind me not to end up by the church at noon. The bells started ringing and boy did I jump! They were SO loud! 

I love all the moss on the trees and the little spring flowers coming up

Spring flowers!

A mountain stream - The Swiss always manage to control all the water coming down from the mountains! 

The typical red Swiss bench. Oh, I think a little boy lost his gloves. The trekking poles are mine. 

This hike has a couple of grottos. With burning candles inside!