Last weekend we took a daytrip to Central Serbia. The primary purpose, according to Andrew, was to stargaze. Serbia has some of the few pristine dark skies in Europe, and Saturday promised to be a clear night. So we loaded up the telescope, and it really was worth it. Even with a bright half moon shining, we could still see the band of the Milky Way and find many deep space objects.
But we did a lot more than stargaze. We spent the morning at the Manasije monastery, a 15th century gem famous for being surrounded with an 11-spired fortress wall.
After the monastery, we had a picnic in a nearby field. I love Fox's contemplative crossed legs.
After that, we went to a nearby cave. Despite being in what seemed the middle of nowhere, it was surprisingly well developed for visitors. And the cave itself was every bit as stunning as any cave I've seen in the States, with huge chambers and countless stalagtites, stalagmites, and columns. The pictures don't do it justice. One of these days I'll learn how to photograph caves.
Finally, we went to our stargazing spot, but first enjoyed a nature hike along a stream and dined on fresh trout at a nearby inn (that's right, we dined at an "inn," one that keeps a stock of trout to cook up for their patrons).
On Veterans' (or Armistice) Day, we went to the zoo. We forgot to bring the camera, but Andrew used my phone to capture the highlight of that visit. One of the zookeepers was carrying a juvenile fox to be examined. After the crowd--which was strictly forbidden from touching it--thinned out, she let us pet it. Then she let us sit by it. Finally, she offered to let me hold it! She was warmed over by Fox's name.
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