Greta Hoffmann stood at the edge of her balcony, hands cupped around her mouth, and let out a warbling cry that echoed across the Alpine valley. “Yodel-ay-hee-hoo!” Her voice cracked on the final note, dissolving into a fit of coughing.
“Verdammt!” Klaus grumbled from his armchair inside. “Must you do that every morning? The neighbors will think we’re raising a herd of dying goats up here.”
Greta turned and beamed at her husband, undeterred. “Now, now, Klausy. You know what they say - practice makes perfect! And just think how impressed everyone will be when I master it.”
Klaus snorted and buried his nose deeper in his newspaper. “At this rate, we’ll both be dead before that happens.”
“Oh, hush,” Greta chided gently. She bustled back inside, humming to herself as she set about preparing breakfast. The aroma of fresh coffee and sizzling sausages soon filled their cozy chalet.
Klaus’s scowl softened slightly as Greta set a steaming mug in front of him. “I suppose your cooking makes up for the racket,” he conceded grudgingly.
Greta patted his shoulder. “There’s my sweet husband. Now, what shall we do today? It’s such a lovely morning - perhaps a nice hike?”
Klaus’s face darkened. “You know I can’t manage the trails anymore. These damned knees…” He trailed off, glaring at his legs as if they had personally betrayed him.
“Nonsense!” Greta exclaimed. “We’ll take it nice and slow. The fresh air will do you good.” She bustled about, gathering their daypacks and filling water bottles.
Klaus knew better than to argue when Greta got an idea in her head. With a heavy sigh, he heaved himself out of the chair. “Fine. But only a short one, mind you.”
An hour later, they were trudging up a gentle slope, Greta chattering away cheerfully while Klaus puffed and grumbled behind her.
“Look at those wildflowers, Klausy! Aren’t they just darling? Oh, and listen to that bird - I think it’s a nightingale. Although I suppose it would be a day-ingale right now, wouldn’t it?” She chuckled at her own joke.
Klaus merely grunted in response, focused on putting one foot in front of the other. The path wasn’t particularly steep, but his knees ached with each step. He found himself wistfully recalling the days when he’d scrambled up sheer rock faces without breaking a sweat.
They rounded a bend and came upon a young woman sitting on a log, sketching in a small notebook. She looked up as they approached, hastily shoving the notebook into her backpack.
“Grüß Gott!” Greta called out cheerfully. “Lovely day for a hike, isn’t it?”
The woman gave a tight smile and nodded curtly. “If you say so.”
Undeterred by the chilly reception, Greta plopped down on the log beside her. “I’m Greta, and this is my husband Klaus. Are you visiting our little slice of paradise?”
The woman sighed, clearly resigned to conversation. “Lena. I work down at the ski resort.”
“Oh, how wonderful!” Greta exclaimed. “You must meet so many interesting people. Although I suppose it’s the off-season now. What do you do in the summer?”
Lena shrugged. “This and that. Mostly I give hiking tours to clueless tourists who have no business being on a mountain.”
Klaus snorted in amusement, earning a reproachful look from Greta.
“Well, I’m sure you’re an excellent guide,” Greta said brightly. “You must know these trails like the back of your hand.”
“I suppose,” Lena muttered.
An awkward silence fell. Klaus shifted uncomfortably, ready to continue on, but Greta seemed determined to draw the young woman out.
“That looked like some lovely sketching you were doing,” she ventured. “Are you an artist?”
Lena’s eyes flashed. “No. Just doodling.”
“Ah, I see. Well, even doodles can be quite charming. I’ve always wished I had a talent for-”
“Look,” Lena interrupted, “I don’t mean to be rude, but I came up here to be alone. So if you don’t mind…” She trailed off meaningfully.
“Oh! Of course, dear. We’ll leave you to it.” Greta stood, tugging Klaus along. “Enjoy the rest of your day!”
As they continued up the trail, Klaus muttered, “Well, she was a ray of sunshine.”
Greta clucked her tongue. “Now, Klaus. I’m sure she has her reasons for being out of sorts. Maybe she’s having boy trouble. Or girl trouble! You never know these days.”
Klaus rolled his eyes. “Or maybe she’s just unpleasant. Not everyone has your unfailing optimism, liebling.”
“Perhaps not,” Greta agreed. “But a little kindness can go a long way. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar, after all!”
“Is that what all that yodeling is about? Catching flies?” Klaus teased.
Greta swatted his arm playfully. “Oh, you. No, that’s about embracing life! Letting your joy ring out for all to hear.”
“Is that what that sound is? I thought it was cats fighting.”
Greta’s retort was cut off by a strangled cry from up ahead. They rounded a bend to find a man sprawled in the middle of the path, his leg bent at an unnatural angle.
“Oh, you poor dear!” Greta exclaimed, rushing to his side. “What happened?”
The man grimaced. “I slip on rock. Stupid tourist, da?”
Klaus knelt to examine the injury while Greta fussed over the man. “It looks like a bad sprain, maybe a fracture,” he reported. “We need to get him down the mountain.”
“I Yuri,” the man offered through gritted teeth. “Very sorry for trouble.”
“Nonsense,” Greta soothed. “We’re happy to help. Isn’t that right, Klaus?”
Klaus grunted noncommittally as he fashioned a makeshift splint from tree branches and his belt.
“Now then,” Greta said briskly. “Klaus, you take one side and I’ll take the other. We’ll get you down safe and sound, Yuri.”
It was slow going. Yuri did his best to hop along between them, but every jolt brought a fresh grimace of pain. Greta kept up a steady stream of cheerful chatter, pointing out interesting plants and rock formations to distract him.
“And just look at that view!” she exclaimed as they paused for a breather. “Isn’t it magnificent? Makes you want to burst into song.”
To their surprise, Yuri nodded enthusiastically. “Da! Is perfect for yodel.”
Greta’s eyes lit up. “You yodel?”
Yuri grinned. “In Russia, we have similar. Is called ‘garmonist’. I learn as boy.” He took a deep breath and let out a series of warbling cries that echoed off the mountainside.
Klaus winced, but Greta was beside herself with delight. “Oh, bravo! That was wonderful. You simply must teach me.”
And so their descent was punctuated by Yuri’s expert demonstrations and Greta’s enthusiastic if somewhat strangled attempts. Klaus gritted his teeth and focused on putting one foot in front of the other, trying to ignore the cacophony.
They were nearing the bottom when they encountered Lena coming up the path. She took in the scene with raised eyebrows.
“What happened here?”
“Minor hiking mishap,” Greta explained cheerfully. “This is our new friend Yuri. He’s had a bit of an accident, but he’s being very brave about it. And he’s teaching me to yodel! Listen to this…” She launched into another warbling attempt.
Lena winced. “Right. Well, I can take it from here. This is literally my job, after all.”
“Oh, how wonderful!” Greta beamed. “Yuri, this is Lena. She’s a guide at the resort. You’ll be in excellent hands.”
They managed the transfer, with Klaus gratefully relinquishing his burden. As Lena and Yuri started down the path, Greta called out, “Don’t forget to practice that yodeling, Yuri! Doctor’s orders!”
Yuri grinned and waved, while Lena rolled her eyes heavenward.
“Well!” Greta said as she and Klaus resumed their hike. “What a lovely adventure. See, Klausy? Aren’t you glad we came out today?”
Klaus had to admit that the exertion felt good, even if his knees were protesting. And Greta’s irrepressible good cheer was, as always, infectious. “I suppose it wasn’t entirely terrible,” he conceded.
Greta beamed and planted a kiss on his whiskered cheek. “That’s the spirit! Now, how about we stop by the biergarten on the way home? I think we’ve earned a treat.”
As they made their way down the mountain, Greta’s occasional yodeling attempts echoed through the trees. Klaus found, to his surprise, that he minded the sound less than he had that morning. Perhaps there was something to be said for embracing joy after all.
The next few weeks saw a flurry of activity in the Hoffmann household. True to his word, Yuri had written down some yodeling tips for Greta before returning to Russia. She attacked her new hobby with gusto, practicing at all hours of the day.
Klaus grumbled, but secretly he was pleased to see his wife so energized. She’d been in a bit of a slump since retiring, and it was good to see her passionate about something again. Even if that something made the neighborhood dogs howl in protest.
One morning, as Greta warbled on the balcony, a small stone came sailing up from below, narrowly missing her head. Attached was a note that read simply: “PLEASE STOP.”
Greta was undeterred. “Well! I suppose not everyone appreciates fine art. But you know what they say - if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again!”
Klaus peered over the railing to see Lena stalking away, muttering to herself. He couldn’t help but chuckle. “I think you’ve made a fan, liebling.”
Greta merely smiled and launched into another verse.
A few days later, they encountered Lena again while out for a stroll. She looked even more sour than usual, if that was possible.
“Grüß Gott, Lena!” Greta called out cheerfully. “Lovely day, isn’t it? How are you?”
Lena’s scowl deepened. “Oh, just peachy. Nothing like being woken up at the crack of dawn by the sound of drowning cats.”
Greta’s smile didn’t falter. “Oh my, that does sound dreadful. I do hope the poor dears are alright.”
Klaus snorted, earning a sharp elbow in the ribs from his wife.
Lena rolled her eyes. “Look, I don’t know how to break this to you, but your yodeling is terrible. You’re driving everyone crazy. For the love of all that is holy, please find a new hobby.”
Greta’s eyes widened in surprise, but she recovered quickly. “Oh, I see. Well, I appreciate your honesty, dear. But you know what they say - Rome wasn’t built in a day! I’m sure with practice I’ll improve.”
Lena threw up her hands in exasperation. “Unbelievable. Do you ever stop being cheerful? Don’t you realize how annoying it is?”
For the first time, Greta’s smile faltered. Klaus stepped forward, bristling. “Now see here-”
But Greta laid a hand on his arm. “It’s alright, Klausy.” She turned back to Lena. “I’m sorry you feel that way, dear. I know the world can seem like a dark place sometimes. But I’ve found that looking for the bright side makes life a lot more pleasant. You should try it sometime.”
With that, she took Klaus’s arm and steered him away, leaving Lena gaping after them.
As they walked home, Klaus patted Greta’s hand. “You handled that well, liebling. I would have told her where to stick it.”
Greta sighed. “Oh, Klaus. Can’t you see she’s hurting? All that anger must come from somewhere. I only wish I knew how to help.”
Klaus shook his head in amazement. “You’re too good for this world, Greta. But you can’t fix everyone.”
“Perhaps not,” Greta agreed. “But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try.”
The next morning, Greta was conspicuously silent as she prepared breakfast. Klaus eyed her warily. “You’re not letting that girl get to you, are you?”
Greta smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Of course not, dear. I was just thinking… perhaps I should find somewhere else to practice. Away from the neighbors.”
Klaus felt a pang of guilt. He’d done his fair share of complaining about the noise, after all. “Nonsense. This is your home. Yodel all you like.”
Greta patted his hand. “You’re sweet to say so. But I think a change of scenery might do me good. I saw a flyer for a beginners’ yodeling class up at the community center. I thought I might give it a try.”
And so, three times a week, Greta would don her dirndl and head off to class. Klaus had to admit, the house seemed too quiet in her absence. He found himself looking forward to her return, eager to hear about her progress.
One evening, as Greta regaled him with tales of her classmates’ antics, there was a knock at the door. Klaus opened it to find Lena standing there, looking uncomfortable.
“Is Greta home?” she asked stiffly.
Klaus raised an eyebrow. “Why?”
Lena sighed. “Look, I feel bad about what I said the other day. I was having a rough time and I took it out on her. I’d like to apologize.”
Klaus studied her for a moment, then nodded and stepped aside. “Greta? You have a visitor.”
Greta appeared in the hallway, her face lighting up when she saw Lena. “Oh, how lovely! Come in, dear. Would you like some tea? I just baked some Linzer torte.”
Soon they were all seated around the kitchen table, Lena looking distinctly out of place amid the cozy domesticity.
“I, um. I wanted to say sorry,” Lena began awkwardly. “For being so rude the other day. And for throwing that rock. It was childish and mean.”
Greta reached out and patted her hand. “That’s quite alright, dear. We all have our off days. I’m just glad you’re feeling better now.”
Lena shifted uncomfortably. “That’s the thing. I’m… not, really. Feeling better, I mean.” She took a deep breath. “The truth is, I hate my job. I came here to be a painter, but I was too scared to really try. So I ended up giving ski lessons instead. And now I feel stuck.”
Greta’s eyes softened with understanding. “Oh, my dear. It’s never too late to follow your dreams, you know. Why, I didn’t start yodeling until I was 67!”
Despite herself, Lena cracked a smile. “Yeah, we’ve all noticed.”
Greta laughed. “I know I’m not very good yet. But I’m having fun, and that’s what matters. Life’s too short to let fear hold you back.”
Lena nodded slowly. “Maybe you’re right. I just… I don’t know where to start.”
“Well, why don’t you show us some of your work?” Greta suggested. “I’d love to see it.”
Lena hesitated, then reached into her bag and pulled out a small sketchbook. She handed it over reluctantly.
Greta and Klaus leaned in to look. The pages were filled with vibrant landscapes and intimate portraits, each one capturing a unique mood and energy.
“Oh, Lena,” Greta breathed. “These are wonderful. You have a real gift.”
Klaus nodded in agreement. “She’s right. You’ve got talent, kid.”
Lena blushed, unused to praise. “You really think so?”
“Absolutely,” Greta assured her. “You know, I have a friend who runs a little gallery in town. Why don’t I give her a call? I bet she’d love to take a look at your work.”
Lena’s eyes widened. “I don’t know… What if she hates it?”
“What if she loves it?” Greta countered. “You’ll never know unless you try. And the worst she can say is no. Then you’ll be right back where you started, no harm done.”
Lena considered this for a moment, then nodded. “Okay. Yeah. Why not?”
Greta beamed. “Wonderful! Oh, this is so exciting. We’ll make an artist of you yet.”
As Lena left that evening, there was a newfound lightness in her step. Greta watched her go with a satisfied smile.
“You see, Klausy? A little kindness goes a long way.”
Klaus shook his head in amazement. “I don’t know how you do it, liebling. You could find the silver lining in a thundercloud.”
Greta laughed. “Well, that’s where the rain comes from, isn’t it? And we need the rain to make things grow.” She kissed his cheek. “Now, how about a yodeling serenade before bed?”
Klaus groaned, but there was no real annoyance behind it. “If you must. But don’t blame me if the neighbors come after you with pitchforks and torches.”
Greta merely laughed and launched into song, her voice echoing across the valley. And if Klaus found himself humming along, well… stranger things had happened.
The weeks flew by, and soon it was time for Greta’s yodeling class to put on a small recital. She’d invited half the town, it seemed, handing out flyers to anyone who would take one.
“Are you sure about this?” Klaus asked as they got ready. “You know you don’t have to prove anything to anyone.”
Greta smiled as she pinned up her braids. “I know, liebling. But it’s not about proving anything. It’s about sharing joy. And if I can inspire even one person to try something new, well… that’s worth a little embarrassment, don’t you think?”
Klaus couldn’t argue with that logic. He had to admit, Greta’s enthusiasm was infectious. He found himself looking forward to the performance, in spite of himself.
The community center was packed when they arrived. Klaus was surprised to see Lena there, looking nervous but excited. She waved when she saw them.
“I didn’t think you’d come,” Greta said, delighted.
Lena shrugged. “Well, you came to my art show. Seemed only fair to return the favor.”
It was true - Lena had her first exhibition at the local gallery the week before. It had been a rousing success, with several pieces sold and a commission for more.
“I’m so glad you’re here,” Greta beamed. “Wish me luck!”
As Greta disappeared backstage, Klaus and Lena found seats near the front.
“So,” Klaus said gruffly. “Things are going well with your art?”
Lena nodded. “Yeah. It’s… it’s pretty amazing, actually. I never thought I could make a living doing what I love.”
Klaus smiled. “Greta has a way of making the impossible seem possible.”
The lights dimmed and the show began. It was, Klaus had to admit, a mixed bag. Some of the performers were quite talented, while others… well, they made up for in enthusiasm what they lacked in skill.
Finally, it was Greta’s turn. She stepped out onto the stage, resplendent in her dirndl, and beamed at the audience. Then she opened her mouth and began to sing.
Klaus held his breath. He’d grown accustomed to Greta’s wavering attempts at home, but this… this was different. Her voice rang out clear and strong, filling the room with joyous sound. It wasn’t perfect by any means, but there was an undeniable charm to it.
As the last note faded away, there was a moment of stunned silence. Then the audience erupted in applause. Klaus found himself on his feet, cheering louder than anyone.
Greta’s face was radiant as she took her bow. As she made her way off stage, Klaus could have sworn he saw tears in her eyes.
After the show, they gathered in the lobby. Greta was surrounded by well-wishers, accepting compliments with gracious humility.
“That was… actually really good,” Lena said, sounding surprised. “I mean, you’ve improved a lot.”
Greta laughed. “Thank you, dear. I’ve been practicing very hard. And having a proper teacher makes all the difference.”
Klaus wrapped an arm around his wife’s shoulders. “You were wonderful, liebling. I’m so proud of you.”
Greta beamed up at him. “Thank you, Klausy. You know, I think I’m finally starting to understand what all the fuss is about. There’s something magical about letting your voice ring out like that. It’s like… like your soul is singing.”
Lena nodded thoughtfully. “I think I know what you mean. It’s how I feel when I’m painting. Like I’m tapping into something bigger than myself.”
“Exactly!” Greta exclaimed. “Oh, isn’t it wonderful? To find that thing that makes your heart soar?”
As they made their way home that night, Klaus marveled at the change in his wife. She’d always been cheerful, but now she fairly glowed with contentment.
“I’m glad you found this, liebling,” he said softly. “You deserve to be happy.”
Greta squeezed his hand. “Oh, Klausy. I’ve always been happy. But now… now I feel complete. Like I’ve found a piece of myself I didn’t know was missing.”
They reached their chalet and Greta paused on the doorstep, looking out over the moonlit valley.
“You know,” she said thoughtfully, “I think I finally understand why you loved climbing so much. It’s not about reaching the top. It’s about the journey. The challenge. Pushing yourself to be better than you were yesterday.”
Klaus nodded, a lump forming in his throat. “That’s it exactly.”
Greta turned to him, her eyes shining. “Thank you for supporting me in this, liebling. I know it hasn’t always been easy on your ears.”
Klaus chuckled. “Well, I suppose turnabout is fair play. You put up with my mountain obsession for years.”
“And I’d do it all again in a heartbeat,” Greta said firmly. “That’s what love is, isn’t it? Supporting each other’s dreams, no matter how crazy they might seem.”
Klaus pulled her close, breathing in the familiar scent of her hair. “I love you, you crazy yodeling optimist.”
Greta laughed. “And I love you, you grumpy old mountaineer.”
As they stood there in the moonlight, Greta began to hum softly. Klaus recognized the tune - it was the song she’d performed earlier. Without thinking, he found himself joining in, his deep bass complementing her lilting soprano.
Their voices twined together, rising up into the night sky. And for a moment, it felt like anything was possible. Like they could conquer any mountain, literal or metaphorical, as long as they faced it together.
As the last note faded away, Greta turned to Klaus with a mischievous glint in her eye. “You know, liebling… I think you might have a talent for this yodeling business.”
Klaus groaned dramatically. “Don’t even think about it. One yodeler in this family is quite enough.”
Greta merely laughed and led him inside. But as they settled in for the night, Klaus found himself humming that tune again. And he had to admit… it didn’t sound half bad.
Who knew? Maybe there was an optimist hiding inside him after all. Stranger things had happened. After all, his wife was living proof that it’s never too late to find your voice and let it ring out for all the world to hear.
As he drifted off to sleep, Klaus made a mental note to ask Greta about those yodeling classes. Just out of curiosity, of course. He had a reputation as a grumpy old man to maintain, after all.
But then again… what was life without a little adventure?