It's National Day in Switzerland. Swiss Flags flying and all shops closed (well, except at the major train stations and the airport). The day is progressing beautifully: cool enough for a jog before long hours of sunshine now heating up Zurich.
Earlier, at about the 10 minute mark loping along in my not-best jogging gear (it is a holiday after all!), I reached the top of an uphill path in the woods where I normally make a right turn and head along a flat-ish, shaded route which eventually opens into a lovely view of fields and distant mountains. A reward well worth the effort.
But instead of the occasional fellow jogger or dog walker at this crossroads, I found a whole bevy of people lining up for a picnic. And I do mean lining up!
In addition to Swiss flags (some carried by children in strollers), flew a banner: FDP (Federal Democratic Party). Holding a picnic in the woods.
I made my right turn and found myself on the "path to the picnic" instead my solitary route to the mountain view. Every person I passed (I was going the opposite direction) said "Scheonen Erste August!" Happy National Day! "Likewise," I panted.
By the time I circled back (having enjoyed the mountain view), the line was across my path such that I had to go around the people of all ages, most wearing red pins with the white Swiss cross and dressed for a social event.
The local politicians had also arrived. How did I know? A politician has a universal stance, smile and ability to position him or herself at the front of the line. Even in the woods.
I had a smile, too.
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