As we walked through a park in downtown Freiburg Saturday, what struck me most was the profusion of flowers. In the park at the base of Schlossberg the blooms were everywhere.

At this time of year in Canada, the parks are grey and somewhat uninviting places, the trees having shed their leaves. And those are the parks not covered in snow, which is always possible at this time of year.

Not so in southern Germany. What passes for winter here is a pale imitation of the Canadian season. I won’t miss the -40 (or lower) wind chill readings, though I do enjoy winter overall and, if last year is any indication, will probably have to make an excursion at some point this year just to see some snow.

Still, the flowers add a nice touch, at this and any time of year.