The fall is here, and the proof is that the city is drowning in chestnuts. Chestnut trees are lining the paths in the parks, the streets in town and are everywhere. So are the chestnuts. Kids pick them, adults pick them, kindergardens refresh their resources for "chestnut baths" - giant tubs and baskets full of them so that the kids can play with them all winter. Goats and deer in the park receive daily donations of chestnuts from people in addition to what's already falling onto their heads. In a couple of weeks, stores do a "chestnut collection day" where you get special shopping discounds if you bring lots of chestnuts with you (later donated to the same goats). I believe, a nickname for people from Ludwigsburg is also "chestnut bags" - at least, that's what I heard. So, here we go today - chestnuts on the street after a windy night. (And yes, I picked up all of them after taking the picture).
Sadly our chestnut tree has a disease and by this time of year all the leaves are brown and curled. No more beautiful autumn colour. Luckily we do still get the conkers.
Thank you all so much - I am glad you liked the photo, as I myself am very fond of the chestnuts.
Conkers! Such a wonderful word - just sound as round an heavy as the thing itself! And I learned something new.
John - they do grow in Russia too, although not in such numbers. This particular photo is from Germany - I think here in Ludwigsburg, it was the tree of choice to plant in town, so there is a sea of them currently no matter where you go.
The kids get them put a string through them then try to break each other's by hitting them. Or at least they did in my childhood and many others before. Health and safety prevents that now!! I live the feel of them
Thank you all so much - I am glad you liked the photo, as I myself am very fond of the chestnuts.
Conkers! Such a wonderful word - just sound as round an heavy as the thing itself! And I learned something new.
John - they do grow in Russia too, although not in such numbers. This particular photo is from Germany - I think here in Ludwigsburg, it was the tree of choice to plant in town, so there is a sea of them currently no matter where you go.