Today we were up at 5:30 am with a plan to catch a ferry across Lake Lucerne about an hour from our lodging. Johannes walked along with us as we recorded our morning update. Things didn’t really go as planned…

After we arrived at the port in Brunnen, we unexpectedly met up again with Otto. The ferry was perfectly on time and we enjoyed the views. Mark and Allison attempted a reenacted a scene from Titanic on the short ride across the lake.

After docking we started up Haggenegg.  The climb was steep, technically difficult at times but beautiful.

The views from up high were amazing.

Plus we came across a bench and a marble table which were romantically called “the king’s throne.”

At one point the trail became both steeper and narrow. Looking down over the precipitous drop made us all a little dizzy. Looking up at the exposed cliff side didn’t help either.

Later we stopped to have coffee and tea in the little village of  Emmetten before we descended steeply down the mountain. The fences in this town had painted flower pots on top of their wooden fence posts. It was very fun and made us all smile and take lots of pictures. The practical purpose of the pots is to slow down the decaying process of the wood. But creative flower pots are always eye catching.

On the way down we stopped at Die Heiligkreuz-Kapelle in Emmetten.  There was a very interesting wood carving called The Emmet Dance of Death probably originated around 1700. The first emerging Dances of Death, however, date back to the 14th century. In the Dance of Death, the power of death is depicted, a power before which all people are equal and from which no one can escape.

From the church brochure: “The Dance of Death in the Holy Cross Chapel shows, from above and from left to right, the various classes in confrontation with the skeleton, which represents death
symbolized: Adam and Eve in Paradise (top center), Pope (top right). Then second row from left: Emperor, Empress, Cardinal, Bishop, King, Queen, Abbot, Abbess, Nobleman, Noblewoman, Parish Priest, Francis Xavier, Forest Brother, Landammann, Councilor, Married couple, Shoemaker, Milker, Mower, Beggar.

That death overtakes all people, regardless of their reputation, social position, or wealth, was a comforting thought, especially for the poorer ones. And the powerful could practice humility and remember that the last shirt has no pockets…”

After descending back to lake level we had a quick lunch and watched the lake boats dock and depart. The casual skill of the me. And ladies mooring the boats was impressive to watch.

Our lodging tonight is on a farm just past the city and many car dealerships. But the views of the Alps from our room are stunning.  We have a kitchen to cook, and Mark graciously walked at least a mile to the grocery store to purchase food for us. Dinner was delicious. Our friend Johannes joined us for dinner. Conversations and friendships are a treasured part of our journey.

Johannes also received an arrow and the gospel message.

FYI: We are here:

Nadine recorded two days worth of our pilgrimage on Relive. Check it out here:

https://www.relive.com/view/v8qkr1WYR36