I went back to the video store b/c the woman said I COULD have a card, and the next day I went back again (didn't have my rental contract with me the first time) and the man was there again and said no way. He is the boss and I am not allowed a card. Big fat jerk!!! But he said Kate could get one, since she's from England. So we had to go get her passport and rental contract before he would give us one. Sheesh.
But in the end I got to rent the videos I wanted (thank you Kate!) and I even got to do a load of laundry at her place, which only took 8 hours! And we made the filling to mince meat pies, an English traditional Christmas treat. Name sounds weird, but it's actually quite fruity and yummy.
We got a dusting of snow last night, nothing much at all. Now the sun is out and it looks nice out, other than very cold.
5 more days!!!!!!!!
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Irish Pub
Last night we went to the Irish Pub for Quiz Night and we WON again, for the third week in a row! So much fun. : ) Good thing Chuck comes along b/c that boy is super smart.
Tonight it's karoake. I think I should just go to bed, but what fun would that be?
Today at school my 7th grade class somehow went from different school rules to sex ed and the kids just wouldn't let it drop. They are MUCH more open about things here. I managed not to turn red and retain my composure and discuss with them. The teacher found it highly amusing. lol. My last class were little jerks and behaved terribly, so I will talk to the principal (it's his class) and see if he still wants me to come. I hope not. There are other classes that would actually enjoy my being there. Grrr.
Ren said that she and Ashley both has video rental cards from the one I went to. So they gave them to an Englander and a Canadian, but not me. I'm trying again tomorrow darn it!
Tonight it's karoake. I think I should just go to bed, but what fun would that be?
Today at school my 7th grade class somehow went from different school rules to sex ed and the kids just wouldn't let it drop. They are MUCH more open about things here. I managed not to turn red and retain my composure and discuss with them. The teacher found it highly amusing. lol. My last class were little jerks and behaved terribly, so I will talk to the principal (it's his class) and see if he still wants me to come. I hope not. There are other classes that would actually enjoy my being there. Grrr.
Ren said that she and Ashley both has video rental cards from the one I went to. So they gave them to an Englander and a Canadian, but not me. I'm trying again tomorrow darn it!
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Car Accident
It was a bit of a rough day. First off I had 5 lessons in a row, and it all seemed well planned out if not slightly stressful. After 4th hour I went to my 5th hour and when I got there, there were more kids than there should have been and one of the student teachers was already there. I got all confused and a few students came up to me, saying, "Ms. Austin, you were supposed to be in our last hour." Um, no? Fifth hour, right? No. They don't have classes at the same time everyday, so it gets confusing. I really DID miss class! Crap!!!
Thankfully, they have a plan that the kids have to go to the secretary at ten past if no teacher shows up. So another teacher took my hour. But I should have known! I should have checked the sub plan, but I already had it written down! The worst part? It was my PRINCIPAL'S class, that he asked me TWO WEEKS ago to take over! Oh dear. I mean, I had it all planned out and everything. I felt soooo bad. And then everyone knew, as well. Wow, reject me.
Then on the way home, the Autobahn had a huge back up so we exited to take back roads and then Thomas hit someone! It was so scary. The car was turning right onto the street in front of us and we didn't see the sign giving him the right of way and he didn't slow down and we couldn't stop in time and we smashed into him. Thank God everyone was ok, just really shaken and tense and worried. Thomas's car is ok, needs a light replaced and some scratches fixed, but the other car was seriously messed up in the front end. They didn't know what to do b/c Thomas and Claudia had never caused an accident. Wow was it stressful. Finally we got details taken care of and Claudia drove us home. Then I went to Kate's to try and relax a bit.
Yikes, what a day! But tonight is dance and Stammtisch. I think I need to go to bed early. Hope everyone is well. : )
Thankfully, they have a plan that the kids have to go to the secretary at ten past if no teacher shows up. So another teacher took my hour. But I should have known! I should have checked the sub plan, but I already had it written down! The worst part? It was my PRINCIPAL'S class, that he asked me TWO WEEKS ago to take over! Oh dear. I mean, I had it all planned out and everything. I felt soooo bad. And then everyone knew, as well. Wow, reject me.
Then on the way home, the Autobahn had a huge back up so we exited to take back roads and then Thomas hit someone! It was so scary. The car was turning right onto the street in front of us and we didn't see the sign giving him the right of way and he didn't slow down and we couldn't stop in time and we smashed into him. Thank God everyone was ok, just really shaken and tense and worried. Thomas's car is ok, needs a light replaced and some scratches fixed, but the other car was seriously messed up in the front end. They didn't know what to do b/c Thomas and Claudia had never caused an accident. Wow was it stressful. Finally we got details taken care of and Claudia drove us home. Then I went to Kate's to try and relax a bit.
Yikes, what a day! But tonight is dance and Stammtisch. I think I need to go to bed early. Hope everyone is well. : )
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Discrimination
An odd feeling, I must admit. Usually, as an American, people might dislike you and your politics, but it's unusal that you actually get told you are not allowed to do something because of where you're from!
What happened, you ask? Well, I was on a mission to rent a DVD. Sounds easy enough, but first you have to find a place, and here most of them are automated machines with no people and I couldn't figure out how to get a card. So we finally found a real place. Kate and I grabbed a DVD we both wanted to see, and I took it up to the counter. The man looked at me all funny, then asked what I wanted with the case. Um, to rent it? He frowned, then said I should have the little card thing with the number on it, NOT the case. Oops. Ok fine. So we got the number thing, brought it back and I asked if I could get a membership card. Sure. Can I see your personal id? Um, license or passport? Passport. Then he started flipping through it to find my visa. At first he didn't see it b/c I have several in there. Then he said I was only allowed to stay through the middle of July. Right. Good job, you can read! Actually, I was quite nice to him.
So then he says I can't have a card. What?! Whyever not? Because I am not German, and not allowed permanent residence. I was confused. But I'm here legally, I did it in Tuebingen with no problem, and I'm American for crying out loud! His response was that I might steal them and take them home. At which point I said, with what DVD player? They are different regions! Plus they would have my passport info, so they could track me down. Finally I gave up the argument and asked if there were any other places in town that might grant me the honor of a card. He said probably not, b/c they owned all the other places in town except the automats. (and obviously I have not figured those out!).
Kate and I put the number thingy back, thanked the stubborn man, and left. Then all the way home I griped about them refusing me a card. I've not had something like that happen before. Very interesting. And annoying. I really wanted to see that movie!!!
Ahh, life as a foreigner!
What happened, you ask? Well, I was on a mission to rent a DVD. Sounds easy enough, but first you have to find a place, and here most of them are automated machines with no people and I couldn't figure out how to get a card. So we finally found a real place. Kate and I grabbed a DVD we both wanted to see, and I took it up to the counter. The man looked at me all funny, then asked what I wanted with the case. Um, to rent it? He frowned, then said I should have the little card thing with the number on it, NOT the case. Oops. Ok fine. So we got the number thing, brought it back and I asked if I could get a membership card. Sure. Can I see your personal id? Um, license or passport? Passport. Then he started flipping through it to find my visa. At first he didn't see it b/c I have several in there. Then he said I was only allowed to stay through the middle of July. Right. Good job, you can read! Actually, I was quite nice to him.
So then he says I can't have a card. What?! Whyever not? Because I am not German, and not allowed permanent residence. I was confused. But I'm here legally, I did it in Tuebingen with no problem, and I'm American for crying out loud! His response was that I might steal them and take them home. At which point I said, with what DVD player? They are different regions! Plus they would have my passport info, so they could track me down. Finally I gave up the argument and asked if there were any other places in town that might grant me the honor of a card. He said probably not, b/c they owned all the other places in town except the automats. (and obviously I have not figured those out!).
Kate and I put the number thingy back, thanked the stubborn man, and left. Then all the way home I griped about them refusing me a card. I've not had something like that happen before. Very interesting. And annoying. I really wanted to see that movie!!!
Ahh, life as a foreigner!
Monday, December 05, 2005
Another Day, Another Broken Washing Machine
So the washer is broken again. That makes three times in the last three months. Good thing I can do most of my laundry in my sink! I will have to ask Thomas if I can do jeans at his place soon. Dear goodness. lol.
It's been a bit warmer lately, above freezing, so that the lots of rain doesn't freeze or turn into pretty snow. If Chuck hadn't left my umbrella in the Irish Pub then it would be even better. Actually, I didn't like that umbrella and it was already falling apart so he did me a favor. Guess I'll have to get my bum into the Stadt tomorrow and kauf (buy) a new one.
Today I stayed for seventh hour after all of my teaching was done (I did a lesson on food in America because my students were really interested! lol, talk about fun!) and stayed for a Spanish class. It was pretty exciting. Learning Spanish in German. Always wanted to try that! I think I'll go again tomorrow and see. I don't have a book so it makes it difficult to catch up at the moment, and I'm still trying to finish up my class for KU. Didn't realize semester ends so soon! Yikes.
Chuck and I have to bake brownies tonight for a teacher b/c he let me out of class last Monday when I was dead tired from the late arrival after Scotland. lol. He was easier bribed. : D A few chewy, chocolately American brownies and they fall at my feet! Bwa ha ha! Just kidding. Sort of.
Not too much new. I'm teaching a bit more and taking over more and more classes which is fun. Last Friday I went in even though I don't normally (and man was it hard after a late night of Salsa dancing! hee hee. I took the other TAs out with me and they are learning to love Salsa as well.) and had a sixth grade class and had them make Christmas cards. Great fun. I even gave them the choice of Happy Christmas (B.E.=British English) or Merry Christmas (A.E.).
This weekend we shaved Chuck's goatee, and then got his hair cut and dyed fire red. Which was quite entertaining b/c apparently guys don't do red in Germany. It is usually a sign that one is gay. So the stylist asked us several times if we were sure. "You mean red tips?" "No, the whole thing." "Maybe blond or perhaps black?" "No, red. The whole thing." "You mean, you want red? The whole thing???" "Um, yes. Red. The whole thing." They all found it amusing and played a joke on the boss, saying they'd messed up his hair and he pretended to be upset. But then she really did mess it up and it was patchy and she had to redo it and it's still patchy. LOL! And then last night we met some colleages for dinner and they did NOT approve of the red. Wow. You'd think we painted something obscene on his head until of a little red dye. Lighten up people!
17 days until I am back at home. I can barely believe it. But I am ueber excited!
Miss you all and can't wait!!!! : )
It's been a bit warmer lately, above freezing, so that the lots of rain doesn't freeze or turn into pretty snow. If Chuck hadn't left my umbrella in the Irish Pub then it would be even better. Actually, I didn't like that umbrella and it was already falling apart so he did me a favor. Guess I'll have to get my bum into the Stadt tomorrow and kauf (buy) a new one.
Today I stayed for seventh hour after all of my teaching was done (I did a lesson on food in America because my students were really interested! lol, talk about fun!) and stayed for a Spanish class. It was pretty exciting. Learning Spanish in German. Always wanted to try that! I think I'll go again tomorrow and see. I don't have a book so it makes it difficult to catch up at the moment, and I'm still trying to finish up my class for KU. Didn't realize semester ends so soon! Yikes.
Chuck and I have to bake brownies tonight for a teacher b/c he let me out of class last Monday when I was dead tired from the late arrival after Scotland. lol. He was easier bribed. : D A few chewy, chocolately American brownies and they fall at my feet! Bwa ha ha! Just kidding. Sort of.
Not too much new. I'm teaching a bit more and taking over more and more classes which is fun. Last Friday I went in even though I don't normally (and man was it hard after a late night of Salsa dancing! hee hee. I took the other TAs out with me and they are learning to love Salsa as well.) and had a sixth grade class and had them make Christmas cards. Great fun. I even gave them the choice of Happy Christmas (B.E.=British English) or Merry Christmas (A.E.).
This weekend we shaved Chuck's goatee, and then got his hair cut and dyed fire red. Which was quite entertaining b/c apparently guys don't do red in Germany. It is usually a sign that one is gay. So the stylist asked us several times if we were sure. "You mean red tips?" "No, the whole thing." "Maybe blond or perhaps black?" "No, red. The whole thing." "You mean, you want red? The whole thing???" "Um, yes. Red. The whole thing." They all found it amusing and played a joke on the boss, saying they'd messed up his hair and he pretended to be upset. But then she really did mess it up and it was patchy and she had to redo it and it's still patchy. LOL! And then last night we met some colleages for dinner and they did NOT approve of the red. Wow. You'd think we painted something obscene on his head until of a little red dye. Lighten up people!
17 days until I am back at home. I can barely believe it. But I am ueber excited!
Miss you all and can't wait!!!! : )
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Scotland
I'm back! Scotland was wonderful. I got to see Auntie, Amy and Mary, and lots of beautiful countryside. We stayed in Glasgow, where I saw a lovely cathedral, the oldest house in the city, and a cool cemetary called the Necropolis plus saw a bit of town and the pubs. Man are the one-way streets insane and nerve-wracking!!
We took half a day to drive across country, 45 miles, to Edinburgh. I still can't say it right! We didn't have much time but we still saw the castle and the Royal Mile, lots of fun shops. If only things were so sauteuer (darn expensive)!
We also took a day trip, almost 12 hours in the car, up north and then down around a peninsula called Kintyre. It was only 125 miles there but the roads were so curvy and windy that you couldn't go faster than 40 mph, 30 in most places. How crazy. And we took one road that was only one lane along the coast for over an hour. It was so beautiful! The landscape was amazing. So many green fields, rounded mountains, rivers and lochs, tons of sheep! On the one-lane road there were sheep in the middle of the road and we stopped to take pics. lol. We made pit-stops and one was castle ruins in Skipness where there was also ruins of an abbey. I stepped in a big pile of sheep poo and then the chased us! Ok, not really, the sheep dog saved it, but there was a moment of sheep fear! Auntie laughed at me.
When I got back to Germany at midnight, the middle of nowhere airport had lots of snow, so the drive home took way longer. But it was beautiful. I could see the white fields in the dark, and Nadeem rolled down the windows and let the snow fly in. What fun!
So I'm exhausted after the trip and work and everything else I've been doing. But it's good. It was so amazing to get to go to Scotland!!! I'll put pics up soon.
I didn't get a real Turkey Day meal. I kept planning on eating apple pie there, but then once I ate there wasn't room for dessert! lol. So I hope you guys had some for me.
Just under a month until I'm home!
OH! Congrats to Michelle! She had her baby last week. Miles Chase. He's having some challenges, so don't forget to get in touch with her and keep her and Miles in your prayers.
Love and miss everyone! : )
We took half a day to drive across country, 45 miles, to Edinburgh. I still can't say it right! We didn't have much time but we still saw the castle and the Royal Mile, lots of fun shops. If only things were so sauteuer (darn expensive)!
We also took a day trip, almost 12 hours in the car, up north and then down around a peninsula called Kintyre. It was only 125 miles there but the roads were so curvy and windy that you couldn't go faster than 40 mph, 30 in most places. How crazy. And we took one road that was only one lane along the coast for over an hour. It was so beautiful! The landscape was amazing. So many green fields, rounded mountains, rivers and lochs, tons of sheep! On the one-lane road there were sheep in the middle of the road and we stopped to take pics. lol. We made pit-stops and one was castle ruins in Skipness where there was also ruins of an abbey. I stepped in a big pile of sheep poo and then the chased us! Ok, not really, the sheep dog saved it, but there was a moment of sheep fear! Auntie laughed at me.
When I got back to Germany at midnight, the middle of nowhere airport had lots of snow, so the drive home took way longer. But it was beautiful. I could see the white fields in the dark, and Nadeem rolled down the windows and let the snow fly in. What fun!
So I'm exhausted after the trip and work and everything else I've been doing. But it's good. It was so amazing to get to go to Scotland!!! I'll put pics up soon.
I didn't get a real Turkey Day meal. I kept planning on eating apple pie there, but then once I ate there wasn't room for dessert! lol. So I hope you guys had some for me.
Just under a month until I'm home!
OH! Congrats to Michelle! She had her baby last week. Miles Chase. He's having some challenges, so don't forget to get in touch with her and keep her and Miles in your prayers.
Love and miss everyone! : )
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Nach Schottland
As of yesterday Germany has its first female Chancellor!!! Congrats Frau Merkel. Exciting times here.
Monday some of the TAs and I checked out our little Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) here in 'Lautern. Very cute. I got a couple of the Gluehwein cups. My digi camera doesn't work so well at night or I would take pics and post them. I love Weihnachtsmaerkte!! They have all sorts of yummy sweets and crafts and the whole downtown is decorated. We even have lots of huge trees all over. Very festive.
Monday after school I went to Heide's (a teacher of mine) and we spent the whole afternoon baking Weihnachtsplaetzchen (Christmas cookies with a special name b/c they are indeed special!) It was great. The Germans put our Christmas cookies to shame.
So at the Christmas market I wanted to try the Gluehwein (glowing wine) b/c it's very traditional German. I hadn't eaten in awhile so I had a Wurst first, but then we drank just one glass of the wine and afterwards I was really loopy. I could barely stay awake at 9 when I went home and was fast asleep by 10. Now I'm wondering, since I rarely touch alcohol, how do you know if you're a bit "buzzed"? Odd question I know, but I swear one glass can't do that, right? Ahh, the adventures one has here! lol.
Yesterday I went on a field trip and took a fifth grade class to a French movie, luckily there were German subtitles. It was an experience. 18 small children all under MY care. Oh dear. It was also weird b/c the class has two boys from the U.S. so as soon as the teacher said I was the American TA they started talking to me in perfect English, with one of the boys having a cute Georgian accent. Suess!!
Today in a few hours I'm off to Scotland til late on Sunday. I am meeting Auntie there and quite excited!
The cold winter has arrived and brrrrr!!!!!
Last night I had ballroom and afterwards I was supposed to meet up with some teachers b/c it was Uwe's birthday. Well, I rode my bike around in the freezing dark for about half an hour, lost a glove, and finally gave up and called Thomas b/c I was way lost. I had ridden off my map so I couldn't find myself or how to get where I meant to go. Lol. I finally found them, but it took forever to thaw out, then we had to walk back home (b/c they walked there). Boy howdy I am ready for spring already!!!!
I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving! Eat some turkey and canned cranberries for me!
: )
Monday some of the TAs and I checked out our little Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) here in 'Lautern. Very cute. I got a couple of the Gluehwein cups. My digi camera doesn't work so well at night or I would take pics and post them. I love Weihnachtsmaerkte!! They have all sorts of yummy sweets and crafts and the whole downtown is decorated. We even have lots of huge trees all over. Very festive.
Monday after school I went to Heide's (a teacher of mine) and we spent the whole afternoon baking Weihnachtsplaetzchen (Christmas cookies with a special name b/c they are indeed special!) It was great. The Germans put our Christmas cookies to shame.
So at the Christmas market I wanted to try the Gluehwein (glowing wine) b/c it's very traditional German. I hadn't eaten in awhile so I had a Wurst first, but then we drank just one glass of the wine and afterwards I was really loopy. I could barely stay awake at 9 when I went home and was fast asleep by 10. Now I'm wondering, since I rarely touch alcohol, how do you know if you're a bit "buzzed"? Odd question I know, but I swear one glass can't do that, right? Ahh, the adventures one has here! lol.
Yesterday I went on a field trip and took a fifth grade class to a French movie, luckily there were German subtitles. It was an experience. 18 small children all under MY care. Oh dear. It was also weird b/c the class has two boys from the U.S. so as soon as the teacher said I was the American TA they started talking to me in perfect English, with one of the boys having a cute Georgian accent. Suess!!
Today in a few hours I'm off to Scotland til late on Sunday. I am meeting Auntie there and quite excited!
The cold winter has arrived and brrrrr!!!!!
Last night I had ballroom and afterwards I was supposed to meet up with some teachers b/c it was Uwe's birthday. Well, I rode my bike around in the freezing dark for about half an hour, lost a glove, and finally gave up and called Thomas b/c I was way lost. I had ridden off my map so I couldn't find myself or how to get where I meant to go. Lol. I finally found them, but it took forever to thaw out, then we had to walk back home (b/c they walked there). Boy howdy I am ready for spring already!!!!
I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving! Eat some turkey and canned cranberries for me!
: )
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Schulfest
This morning's school festival was quite nice. I started at the American Breakfast with real pancakes and syrup that one of my students bought at the Base. Yum!! I didn't even have to cook. I thought they would have me do that. Instead they gave me pancakes. Then I walked around the school to see what all the other classes had prepared. All sorts of food, especially sweets and cookies. Mmm. I didn't indulge, just looked. And a few students played music. There were games as well. Very nice.
On the train ride home the train was packed with people going to 'Lautern for the soccer game today. Also tons of Amis. (Americans) I was sitting next to some and started talking to them and they thought I was German. I still sound horrible due to my lovely cold. I finally got them to believe I was American, but they still insisted on speaking German with me. Very odd because most Amis here don't speak a word of German. But these were surgeons. Not to be an intellectual snob, but the normal military don't take an interest in the language. I hadn't met any of the doctors before. They aren't even here as long as the military folks. Go figure. So I walked with them to the start of the Altstadt and said goodbye.
On Tuesday I'm going with another teacher on a field trip to my own city, but what's funny is she needs me to help watch the kids, which means I need to go to Landstuhl first and meet them at the train station there before 8 am. Crack me up. And then we'll come BACK to my city and go to a French movie. Go figure. I think it's great. Actually, Chuck and I went to a French movie in Montpellier and that was quite hilarious since we could barely order the tickets and the man behind the counter kept telling us that the film was in French and we couldn't speak French. As if we didn't realize that. lol.
So I have work on Monday, the French field trip on Tuesday, work Wednesday and then lots of train time to get to the airport and off to Schottland for a loooong weekend. Luckily I have a ride home in the middle of the night on Sunday. I was a bit worried about that, but now it should be ok. It'll just be a tired Monday afterwards.
I think I need a nap. : )
On the train ride home the train was packed with people going to 'Lautern for the soccer game today. Also tons of Amis. (Americans) I was sitting next to some and started talking to them and they thought I was German. I still sound horrible due to my lovely cold. I finally got them to believe I was American, but they still insisted on speaking German with me. Very odd because most Amis here don't speak a word of German. But these were surgeons. Not to be an intellectual snob, but the normal military don't take an interest in the language. I hadn't met any of the doctors before. They aren't even here as long as the military folks. Go figure. So I walked with them to the start of the Altstadt and said goodbye.
On Tuesday I'm going with another teacher on a field trip to my own city, but what's funny is she needs me to help watch the kids, which means I need to go to Landstuhl first and meet them at the train station there before 8 am. Crack me up. And then we'll come BACK to my city and go to a French movie. Go figure. I think it's great. Actually, Chuck and I went to a French movie in Montpellier and that was quite hilarious since we could barely order the tickets and the man behind the counter kept telling us that the film was in French and we couldn't speak French. As if we didn't realize that. lol.
So I have work on Monday, the French field trip on Tuesday, work Wednesday and then lots of train time to get to the airport and off to Schottland for a loooong weekend. Luckily I have a ride home in the middle of the night on Sunday. I was a bit worried about that, but now it should be ok. It'll just be a tired Monday afterwards.
I think I need a nap. : )
Friday, November 18, 2005
Television!!!
I have a T.V.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Juhu!!! I'm so excited. I did the happy dance. I jumped around. I turned it on and instantly had several channels and GILMORE GIRLS, all in German. How wonderful. Such a good day. Sad that I get so excited about such a small thing, but it is so nice. And it's in GERMAN. I mean, I can be lazy and watch my favorite shows and learn at the same time. Very nice.
So I went to school today just for the one hour. Then I came right back and made soup. The soup was very.......um....edible. Yep. Edible. Healthy, though. Lots of vegies. I invited Chuck to lunch and he agreed. The soup was indeed edible. lol. I'll try that one again later.
Tomorrow is the school festival. And in the evening we're going to see the new Harry Potter!!!! And in English. What a treat!
Hmmm, it sounds like my life currently revolves around media entertainment. Well, just today and tomorrow!
It sleeted/iced a bit today. Didn't stick. But very cool to watch.
So I went to school today just for the one hour. Then I came right back and made soup. The soup was very.......um....edible. Yep. Edible. Healthy, though. Lots of vegies. I invited Chuck to lunch and he agreed. The soup was indeed edible. lol. I'll try that one again later.
Tomorrow is the school festival. And in the evening we're going to see the new Harry Potter!!!! And in English. What a treat!
Hmmm, it sounds like my life currently revolves around media entertainment. Well, just today and tomorrow!
It sleeted/iced a bit today. Didn't stick. But very cool to watch.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Voiceless Me
I'm a bit erkaeltet (I have a cold). I knew I was getting sick this weekend, and then after the 5 hours on Monday and a few yesterday, plus the business, lack of sleep and lots of excitement and being outside in the freezing cold wetness, well. I woke up this morning without much of a voice and Thomas said if I couldn't talk I oughtn't come in. So I phoned him at 6:30 to whisper that I'd be staying home today.
I spent the day drinking tea and sucking on "Bon-Bons" as they call cough drops. Chuck came over and we whispered together seeing as how he's sickly as well. Then I made my way to the Apotheke (pharmacy) and the nice lady helped me pick out some more Bon-Bons (I would prefer a package of Halls, but getting to the base is too much work). So tonight instead of going out I'm calling it a quiet in-night, and hoping I'll have more of a voice for school tomorrow. Also tonight there was a get-together in my building to get to know some of the other residents, since a German dorm is not at all like an American one where people just go introduce themselves. No siree Bob.
Just over a month until I'm home! I'm so excited!
I spent the day drinking tea and sucking on "Bon-Bons" as they call cough drops. Chuck came over and we whispered together seeing as how he's sickly as well. Then I made my way to the Apotheke (pharmacy) and the nice lady helped me pick out some more Bon-Bons (I would prefer a package of Halls, but getting to the base is too much work). So tonight instead of going out I'm calling it a quiet in-night, and hoping I'll have more of a voice for school tomorrow. Also tonight there was a get-together in my building to get to know some of the other residents, since a German dorm is not at all like an American one where people just go introduce themselves. No siree Bob.
Just over a month until I'm home! I'm so excited!
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Burg Nanstein
Hi all! Today Chuck and I checked out my village, Landstuhl. It is quite lovely. We walked around town, saw a few churches, a graveyard from WWII, and climbed up to the top of a hill where the beautiful ruins of Burg Nanstein are. The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, and the remains are great. Took lots of pics. Have already sent them out to you. So, if you aren't receiving my email links to the pics, please tell me because I might not have your email address added to that group.
If your name is MONICA LEVY, I need your email address. I realized I have no way to contact you and I want to. I need your email address and your home address and please update me on how you are, ok?
School this week was pretty tame. I didn't do much and got off early most days. Next week will be more strenuous. I have lots of lessons to give. I hope to give a bunch on Thanksgiving, one on media/technology in American high schools, a discussion class to lead, I'm also taking over the principal's English class all week, Tuesday through Friday. So I'm planning to do a lesson on stress (I'd like to lead some yoga, get a little movement and excitement going on, but with a group of 9th graders I'm not sure that will work....) and the rest of the week everyday English. Not as exciting as getting them all to balance in Warrior Pose, but oh well. I'd love to do a lesson on book banning. Chuck got one of his classes to ban the Declaration of Independence and the Bible after they said they wouldn't ban books. (Of course he just pulled sections from the works and didn't tell them what it was from.) Sounds so interesting! I still haven't started a club yet, I just don't know what to do! If you have any ideas for one, please let me know!!
Dad and Kathie, thanks for the shoes and shirts. Megan and Mary, thanks for the candy and the continual letters/cards, I really love them!
My dance partner for ballroom on Tuesday wasn't bad. He can do the steps, we'll work on his lead, and the international style came back to me for the most part so it wasn't embarrassing thank goodness!
It's getting chilly here. Is the weather still crazy warm at home?
Hope everyone is well. : )
If your name is MONICA LEVY, I need your email address. I realized I have no way to contact you and I want to. I need your email address and your home address and please update me on how you are, ok?
School this week was pretty tame. I didn't do much and got off early most days. Next week will be more strenuous. I have lots of lessons to give. I hope to give a bunch on Thanksgiving, one on media/technology in American high schools, a discussion class to lead, I'm also taking over the principal's English class all week, Tuesday through Friday. So I'm planning to do a lesson on stress (I'd like to lead some yoga, get a little movement and excitement going on, but with a group of 9th graders I'm not sure that will work....) and the rest of the week everyday English. Not as exciting as getting them all to balance in Warrior Pose, but oh well. I'd love to do a lesson on book banning. Chuck got one of his classes to ban the Declaration of Independence and the Bible after they said they wouldn't ban books. (Of course he just pulled sections from the works and didn't tell them what it was from.) Sounds so interesting! I still haven't started a club yet, I just don't know what to do! If you have any ideas for one, please let me know!!
Dad and Kathie, thanks for the shoes and shirts. Megan and Mary, thanks for the candy and the continual letters/cards, I really love them!
My dance partner for ballroom on Tuesday wasn't bad. He can do the steps, we'll work on his lead, and the international style came back to me for the most part so it wasn't embarrassing thank goodness!
It's getting chilly here. Is the weather still crazy warm at home?
Hope everyone is well. : )
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Sunshine
I don't feel I've really said how completely beautiful it is here, especially where I work. I plan to really explore the village soon. However. I take the train to Landstuhl, and go by fields and gardens and lots of trees and even some horses. In the mornings there is usually a fog that lifts as the day progresses. Sometimes when I'm in one of the higher floors of the school I can watch the fog roll slowly by, and see down into the town and to towns past, over hills covered with trees full of leaves burning with fiery autumn colors. My school sits on hill surrounded by trees. I love the rolling hills and all the forest area, and they think it's flat here! Not at all what one comprends coming from the Mid-West.
Sunday Koto came to visit. It was wonderful! I'd missed her so much. One day wasn't enough, but better than not having seen her. We spent the afternoon walking around and seeing town, I showed her a lot of our churches and fountains. She says it's much prettier than Frankfurt. As she left I had one of those moments that reminds you of films. After lots of hugs she got on the train, but stood there in front of the door, letting other people go and we kept talking until the beeping warning that the doors would close sounded and I stepped away from the train. The doors closed. We waved, and kept waving as the train slowly pulled away from the station. I didn't want her to go. It was sad, but I was so glad to have seen her. Luckily I get to see her again very late on the 26th when I come back from Scotland and need a place to sleep instead of staying the night in a train station, which is not safe.
Every Sunday Thomas (my Betreuungslehrer=teacher who is responsible for me), two of his friends, and Chuck and I do dinner together. We meet at someone's house and cook. It's so great! One time we made an American dinner with hamburgers and brownies, another they made us Zwiebelkuchen und Federweisen/Neuer Wein. Yummm! This last Sunday everyone had just gotten back from "holidays" so we went to Thomas's and ordered pizzas, only he made ME do it! I don't even like doing that at home. lol. But it's so nice b/c it's a weekly thing, just like our Stammtisch Abende (tonight). It's one of those signs that you're carving a niche for yourself somewhere new, when you have those ordinary things that make up everyday life but are so wonderful. Like when I go to the Markt on Saturdays for groceries.
I only had to work 2 hours today. Nice. Tuesdays are supposed to be my long days, but with tests there has been some changing in teachers using me. Which is fine, because other teachers have been picking up the slack. I did two lessons on American high schools yesterday, and the kids love the pictures and yearbook I brought from home. I wish I had brought my class ring and letter jacket. I'm getting ready to prepare a lesson on Thanksgiving and hopefully will do it in several classes b/c I feel it's an important American tradition/holiday and much more fun than grammar and normal class, so they should enjoy it as well. I always want to bring in props but I don't have many and it's expensive to obtain them. I also wanted to build a gingerbread house (or houses) before Christmas but that sounds too problematic/messy. My teacher wasn't as excited about the idea, which I can understand.
Tonight is my first night of ballroom dance practice. I hope it goes well. Can't wait to see how good my partner is. Or if I even know the International dances anymore, since I'm sure they don't do American style here!
Sunday Koto came to visit. It was wonderful! I'd missed her so much. One day wasn't enough, but better than not having seen her. We spent the afternoon walking around and seeing town, I showed her a lot of our churches and fountains. She says it's much prettier than Frankfurt. As she left I had one of those moments that reminds you of films. After lots of hugs she got on the train, but stood there in front of the door, letting other people go and we kept talking until the beeping warning that the doors would close sounded and I stepped away from the train. The doors closed. We waved, and kept waving as the train slowly pulled away from the station. I didn't want her to go. It was sad, but I was so glad to have seen her. Luckily I get to see her again very late on the 26th when I come back from Scotland and need a place to sleep instead of staying the night in a train station, which is not safe.
Every Sunday Thomas (my Betreuungslehrer=teacher who is responsible for me), two of his friends, and Chuck and I do dinner together. We meet at someone's house and cook. It's so great! One time we made an American dinner with hamburgers and brownies, another they made us Zwiebelkuchen und Federweisen/Neuer Wein. Yummm! This last Sunday everyone had just gotten back from "holidays" so we went to Thomas's and ordered pizzas, only he made ME do it! I don't even like doing that at home. lol. But it's so nice b/c it's a weekly thing, just like our Stammtisch Abende (tonight). It's one of those signs that you're carving a niche for yourself somewhere new, when you have those ordinary things that make up everyday life but are so wonderful. Like when I go to the Markt on Saturdays for groceries.
I only had to work 2 hours today. Nice. Tuesdays are supposed to be my long days, but with tests there has been some changing in teachers using me. Which is fine, because other teachers have been picking up the slack. I did two lessons on American high schools yesterday, and the kids love the pictures and yearbook I brought from home. I wish I had brought my class ring and letter jacket. I'm getting ready to prepare a lesson on Thanksgiving and hopefully will do it in several classes b/c I feel it's an important American tradition/holiday and much more fun than grammar and normal class, so they should enjoy it as well. I always want to bring in props but I don't have many and it's expensive to obtain them. I also wanted to build a gingerbread house (or houses) before Christmas but that sounds too problematic/messy. My teacher wasn't as excited about the idea, which I can understand.
Tonight is my first night of ballroom dance practice. I hope it goes well. Can't wait to see how good my partner is. Or if I even know the International dances anymore, since I'm sure they don't do American style here!
Saturday, November 05, 2005
Not much new
Thank you Val! I'm impressed you navigated the German website so well.
Today was market day again. I really do love market day! I got different cheeses and tried a mystery meat! hee hee.
I'm going salsa dancing again tonight. Thank goodness it's so near!
Not much else new. Kind of a boring entry. lol. Oh well.
Today was market day again. I really do love market day! I got different cheeses and tried a mystery meat! hee hee.
I'm going salsa dancing again tonight. Thank goodness it's so near!
Not much else new. Kind of a boring entry. lol. Oh well.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Flowers
Who sent the flowers?
They're beautiful. German bouquets are always a work of art. Whoever did it, Thank you! I LOVE getting flowers. But seriously, next time sign the card. Please email me and let me know who the mystery person is so I can thank you personally!
I went salsa dancing last night until they closed the bar and kicked us out. It was wonderful!
Not much else new here, just need to study. Like always. : )
They're beautiful. German bouquets are always a work of art. Whoever did it, Thank you! I LOVE getting flowers. But seriously, next time sign the card. Please email me and let me know who the mystery person is so I can thank you personally!
I went salsa dancing last night until they closed the bar and kicked us out. It was wonderful!
Not much else new here, just need to study. Like always. : )
Thursday, November 03, 2005
And the Dumb Foreigner Award goes to.....
Me!!! Ok, so I thought I had this uni thing all figured out. I even got to the uni early and parked and locked up my bike (after walking it halfway up the long hill and asking someone where the building was b/c it was dark) and made it to the room with plenty of time. First one there. Then the next student arrived, and just to double check, I asked if it was French. Yes, indeed. Then I asked if he had the book. Yes, it was stated online. Darn it! I missed that. Strike one. Then he asked if I had enrolled for it. Um, we were supposed to do that? Yes. Strike two. And then it turned out that I was in French 5, not French 1. Strike three. That makes me out. So yes, they helped me find that French 1 is on Tuesdays during ballroom dance (I found a partner yesterday! We haven't danced together yet, but at least he's willing to try. I'm excited.). Dear goodness.
So I went back down to my bike, shaking my head and laughing at myself all the while. You'd think by now I'd have the system figured out. In all fairness, the website I looked at had a G1 by it, which I thought meant Grundstufe 1. I think there was something wrong with the website. Or rather, there were so many with the same and different French classes, it's quite confusing. I thought I had it figured out, but obviously not.
In the end, what is more important? French or ballroom? Difficult, but I chose ballroom. Plus, the French class is extra. lol. Maybe it's a big fat sign that I'm just not meant to take French. Or that I need to learn to read a German uni course catalog. Both seem like fairly good possibilities.
Meegan: Yes, I learned my lesson in Tueb. The Schwarzfahren (yes, you spelled it correctly) was necessary and I was very unhappy about it, but it was that or miss our plane home. At the time I didn't realize the consequence could be jail.
Sammy: I secretly love wearing scarves and had a bunch at home, but here the people wear scarves everyday and I love it b/c I can too without being some scarf freak. It's actually normal! Good stuff.
Well that's the excitement for today.
So I went back down to my bike, shaking my head and laughing at myself all the while. You'd think by now I'd have the system figured out. In all fairness, the website I looked at had a G1 by it, which I thought meant Grundstufe 1. I think there was something wrong with the website. Or rather, there were so many with the same and different French classes, it's quite confusing. I thought I had it figured out, but obviously not.
In the end, what is more important? French or ballroom? Difficult, but I chose ballroom. Plus, the French class is extra. lol. Maybe it's a big fat sign that I'm just not meant to take French. Or that I need to learn to read a German uni course catalog. Both seem like fairly good possibilities.
Meegan: Yes, I learned my lesson in Tueb. The Schwarzfahren (yes, you spelled it correctly) was necessary and I was very unhappy about it, but it was that or miss our plane home. At the time I didn't realize the consequence could be jail.
Sammy: I secretly love wearing scarves and had a bunch at home, but here the people wear scarves everyday and I love it b/c I can too without being some scarf freak. It's actually normal! Good stuff.
Well that's the excitement for today.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Ich darf aber bleiben!
Mein Visum ist endlich erledigt! Juhu! Ich darf hier bleiben. Was fuer ein schoner Tag, ge'?
Ok, so I got my visa today. About time! I'm very excited. I'm allowed to stay in the country until the 15th of July.
I also bought spices today. That might seem odd to be excited about spices, but it was time. It is difficult to cook in my little room, but it was simply time to get the necessities to make proper meals. Especially so I can make my own spaghetti sauce!
Also got paid. Relief. However, I don't think they've been taking the rent from my account. That is not good. I mean, yes, I'd like to not have to pay, but if I have to pay three months at once...yikes.
Right now I'm taking a Kaffeepause (coffee break). What would life be like without a daily afternoon coffee/tea/hot chocolate and cookie/cake break? These Germans know what they're doing when it comes to afternoon Pausen.
Tonight there is a ballroom meeting at the Uni. I'm taking my bike b/c it will be later and the busses don't come very often. However, it is up a big hill and I'm not convinced I can make it up. Sadly I might have to walk the bike up. Wouldn't that be amusing? I hope it stops raining, or that could make it twice as fun! lol.
Other than that not too much new going on here. It's still unseasonably warm. So no complaints. With all the trees here the leaves fall like mad and I love it.
The other day I was walking through the city when I heard someone belting out this Italian opera sounding song. An older gentleman, standing on the corner, his only companion a worn black music box. I was mesmerized. I stopped right there and watched and listened to him. He was really into it and the sound that came out of him was breathtaking.
Today as I was again walking in the Altstadt, I heard pretty violins. There were two men dressed up, under an overhang to protect them from the drizzle, and they were playing wonderful music. The kind that makes you think of Eastern Europe. Right there in the middle of the busy shopping street. Just like the movies!
Ok, so I got my visa today. About time! I'm very excited. I'm allowed to stay in the country until the 15th of July.
I also bought spices today. That might seem odd to be excited about spices, but it was time. It is difficult to cook in my little room, but it was simply time to get the necessities to make proper meals. Especially so I can make my own spaghetti sauce!
Also got paid. Relief. However, I don't think they've been taking the rent from my account. That is not good. I mean, yes, I'd like to not have to pay, but if I have to pay three months at once...yikes.
Right now I'm taking a Kaffeepause (coffee break). What would life be like without a daily afternoon coffee/tea/hot chocolate and cookie/cake break? These Germans know what they're doing when it comes to afternoon Pausen.
Tonight there is a ballroom meeting at the Uni. I'm taking my bike b/c it will be later and the busses don't come very often. However, it is up a big hill and I'm not convinced I can make it up. Sadly I might have to walk the bike up. Wouldn't that be amusing? I hope it stops raining, or that could make it twice as fun! lol.
Other than that not too much new going on here. It's still unseasonably warm. So no complaints. With all the trees here the leaves fall like mad and I love it.
The other day I was walking through the city when I heard someone belting out this Italian opera sounding song. An older gentleman, standing on the corner, his only companion a worn black music box. I was mesmerized. I stopped right there and watched and listened to him. He was really into it and the sound that came out of him was breathtaking.
Today as I was again walking in the Altstadt, I heard pretty violins. There were two men dressed up, under an overhang to protect them from the drizzle, and they were playing wonderful music. The kind that makes you think of Eastern Europe. Right there in the middle of the busy shopping street. Just like the movies!
Monday, October 31, 2005
Strikes
I forgot to tell a fun story about leaving France. We couldn't really communicate with the nice B&B lady most of the trip because we don't speak French and she didn't really speak English. Well, on the last day I found out she spoke Spanish and so does Chuck so finally we could really talk to her! We were going to leave earlier for the airport, but ended up talking to Esperanza.
When we got to our tram stop everyone got off the tram, we got on, then someone was saying something in French and everyone got back off. How odd. It already seemed weird that the whole tram had emptied there, so I turned to someone and asked if they spoke English (which was quite hard to find down there!). She did, thank goodness, and explained that the trams were striking here and to go to the Place de la Comedie to pick up a tram.
So Chuck and I hauled our luggage up many flights of stairs to run through a lovely park and past the 50-100 student demonstrators and caught the next tram. Sadly we didn't have time to buy a ticket. Not a good idea. Did you know you can go to jail in France for riding without a ticket? I didn't know either!
Ok, we didn't get caught, don't worry. We just made it in time to catch the bus shuttle to the airport. We also met some nice Germans on the way there. Actually, we met all sorts and nice and interesting people on the trip.
The part I found most amusing was that you always here of the French striking, and then I really got to see it! So my stereotypes were definitely reinforced. Baguettes, berets (though not so many), strikes, and little to no English. lol. It was great.
When we got to our tram stop everyone got off the tram, we got on, then someone was saying something in French and everyone got back off. How odd. It already seemed weird that the whole tram had emptied there, so I turned to someone and asked if they spoke English (which was quite hard to find down there!). She did, thank goodness, and explained that the trams were striking here and to go to the Place de la Comedie to pick up a tram.
So Chuck and I hauled our luggage up many flights of stairs to run through a lovely park and past the 50-100 student demonstrators and caught the next tram. Sadly we didn't have time to buy a ticket. Not a good idea. Did you know you can go to jail in France for riding without a ticket? I didn't know either!
Ok, we didn't get caught, don't worry. We just made it in time to catch the bus shuttle to the airport. We also met some nice Germans on the way there. Actually, we met all sorts and nice and interesting people on the trip.
The part I found most amusing was that you always here of the French striking, and then I really got to see it! So my stereotypes were definitely reinforced. Baguettes, berets (though not so many), strikes, and little to no English. lol. It was great.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Montpellier
Last week in France was wonderful! We didn't do much, just walked around the city, enjoyed the architecture, parks, good weather, went to the beach one day where we built a sandcastle and laid out and I just stood with my feet in the water. Very nice. We also did a day trip to Aigues Mort, town of the dead waters. It has a fully intact city wall that you can walk around. Very cool. A bit too touristy for my taste, but gorgeous. It is right by all these swamp lands/salt water ponds and horses were grazing in the fields of surreal greens. We even saw real live flamingoes! In the wild! lol. That was awesome.
It really was just a relaxing vacation.
This morning I went and got some art supplies so I can try and do a real painting. hee hee. I'm quite excited. I also stopped by the market and picked up some fresh vegies, fruits, and meats and cheeses. I love that they let you, no, insist, that you try the meats and cheeses. It's great. Since then I've been fighting a war with the mold. There's just so much it's hard to beat. I put up a decent battle, but gave up for now. I will go after it again some other day.
The weather here is warm and sunny again. We're having an incredibly mild autumn! I love it.
Yes, I will be home the 22nd of December. Dad is getting married the 23rd. After that I should have some time. I leave again on the 7th of January.
I will put pics of France up soon, but they are not so spectacular. It was mostly just the city. But I enjoyed it.
There was an article on Mom's business on the FRONT PAGE of the KC Star yesterday. Check it out!
I miss you all and really wish I could be there now. Thanks for the emails and electronic hugs.
Love you guys.
It really was just a relaxing vacation.
This morning I went and got some art supplies so I can try and do a real painting. hee hee. I'm quite excited. I also stopped by the market and picked up some fresh vegies, fruits, and meats and cheeses. I love that they let you, no, insist, that you try the meats and cheeses. It's great. Since then I've been fighting a war with the mold. There's just so much it's hard to beat. I put up a decent battle, but gave up for now. I will go after it again some other day.
The weather here is warm and sunny again. We're having an incredibly mild autumn! I love it.
Yes, I will be home the 22nd of December. Dad is getting married the 23rd. After that I should have some time. I leave again on the 7th of January.
I will put pics of France up soon, but they are not so spectacular. It was mostly just the city. But I enjoyed it.
There was an article on Mom's business on the FRONT PAGE of the KC Star yesterday. Check it out!
I miss you all and really wish I could be there now. Thanks for the emails and electronic hugs.
Love you guys.
Sunday, October 16, 2005
Home for the Holidays
I GET TO COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited! I miss everyone and everything so much. My very generous parents have offered to help me make my way back to the Mid-West in late December. So any of you who will be there and want to see me, well, I want to see you too!
That completely made my day. I think I'll stop smiling sometime, like tomorrow. hee hee.
Tonight Chuck and I carved a pumpkin. It was so much fun! He's not as good at carving and did the first eye and accidentally cut out the inside so I did the next eye which worked so sadly it has one pupil for two eyes. Oh well. We cooked the seeds as well. His roommates thought it was quite amusing because they don't do that here. But they did like the seeds. lol.
The weather here is still nice. What a great day!
That completely made my day. I think I'll stop smiling sometime, like tomorrow. hee hee.
Tonight Chuck and I carved a pumpkin. It was so much fun! He's not as good at carving and did the first eye and accidentally cut out the inside so I did the next eye which worked so sadly it has one pupil for two eyes. Oh well. We cooked the seeds as well. His roommates thought it was quite amusing because they don't do that here. But they did like the seeds. lol.
The weather here is still nice. What a great day!
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Liebe Studentenausweis, hier bist du!
My lovely Student ID card arrived today! All right! By German bureaucracy standards that was crazy fast. I'm very grateful. That means today was the last day that I'll pay for my train ticket. Yes!
It is still sunny and cool out. Very nice weather. I am so lucking out!
Chuck and I are planning to carve a pumpkin this afternoon. I'm excited. Granted, I should probably be studying, but how can I resist pumpkin carving?
Last night at Stammtisch Chuck and I were late and our regular guys were at the other end of the table so we sat by this guy who we couldn't really understand. Basically it was a lot of nodding and smiling and hoping he didn't ask questions that required lengthy and/or intelligent answers. lol.
Today two of my classes simply didn't show up. I think because the teachers are doing the play (which I'm going to Friday) but I didn't know about it. lol. So again I just kinda sat there then gave up and caught a train home.
Friday will be exciting because I have an appointment with the washing machine and dryer! Yes! Then I'm meeting a woman from the Uni who has been helping me. She wants to work on her English so we're meeting for coffee. Should be nice. And Koto is coming to visit this weekend! Things are really picking up here.
That's about it for my life update. Hope things are good at home. : )
It is still sunny and cool out. Very nice weather. I am so lucking out!
Chuck and I are planning to carve a pumpkin this afternoon. I'm excited. Granted, I should probably be studying, but how can I resist pumpkin carving?
Last night at Stammtisch Chuck and I were late and our regular guys were at the other end of the table so we sat by this guy who we couldn't really understand. Basically it was a lot of nodding and smiling and hoping he didn't ask questions that required lengthy and/or intelligent answers. lol.
Today two of my classes simply didn't show up. I think because the teachers are doing the play (which I'm going to Friday) but I didn't know about it. lol. So again I just kinda sat there then gave up and caught a train home.
Friday will be exciting because I have an appointment with the washing machine and dryer! Yes! Then I'm meeting a woman from the Uni who has been helping me. She wants to work on her English so we're meeting for coffee. Should be nice. And Koto is coming to visit this weekend! Things are really picking up here.
That's about it for my life update. Hope things are good at home. : )
Monday, October 10, 2005
New Government
Ladies and Gentleman we have it! A new government. Sadly not the Jamaica Coalition I was hoping for. They've decided on a CDU/SPD "big coalition" with Angela Merkel as Chancellor! Wow. It will be interesting to see how things go....
Last night was an American dinner at Thomas's. We made burgers and brownies in a muffin pan and everyone enjoyed it. Lots of fun.
I am going to Scotland for Thanksgiving! I'm meeting Auntie there. My principal said I could have two days off to go (very nice and understanding).
The weather is still sunny and cool here. What a great fall!
Hope everyone is well.
: )
Last night was an American dinner at Thomas's. We made burgers and brownies in a muffin pan and everyone enjoyed it. Lots of fun.
I am going to Scotland for Thanksgiving! I'm meeting Auntie there. My principal said I could have two days off to go (very nice and understanding).
The weather is still sunny and cool here. What a great fall!
Hope everyone is well.
: )
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Market Day
I think Market Day might be among my favorites. On Tuesdays (sadly I'm at work) and Saturday mornings there is a big square where people come out and set up tents and stands and sell the most brightly colored, delicious looking vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, flowers, and more! They are all fresh and inviting and hard to resist. So much better than shopping at a grocery store. And they let you try things. I wanted to get some lunch meat and I didn't realize there was such a selection of salami, so the lady recommended one then insisted I try it to make sure I liked it. Yum! And you can get organic there as well. So I filled my backpack with vegies for some wonderful salads to come, splurged on a few pieces of fruit, and got a pumpkin for carving. It just won't be October without a pumpkin.
There are also stands that sell food to eat right there, and I couldn't resist getting a red wurst in a little broetchen (roll). Mmmmmm. It's all so delicious.
The market square is modern and redone, however just past the tents you can see the towers of the church in the Altstadt, the Stiftskirche (as the church is called) and it makes for a magical setting. I really wished I had had my camera there. I will try to remember it next time.
Well, the laundry in the sink calls, as do my studies.
There are also stands that sell food to eat right there, and I couldn't resist getting a red wurst in a little broetchen (roll). Mmmmmm. It's all so delicious.
The market square is modern and redone, however just past the tents you can see the towers of the church in the Altstadt, the Stiftskirche (as the church is called) and it makes for a magical setting. I really wished I had had my camera there. I will try to remember it next time.
Well, the laundry in the sink calls, as do my studies.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Das Teehaus
Today has been quite delightful. I got to sleep in, then as I breakfasted, I saw the Hausmeister outside of my window at the trash recepticles. I waved and he came over (my window was open because I was luefting and airing out my bedding as well. He said he could fix my window right then and there and did! Yay!
Then I went into town on my hunt for the visa office. It took a few tries because it's a bit hidden, but then I walked the five floors up and waited until the not so happy woman let me in. She insisted I wait until I get a proper appointment although I had everything with me, but she ended up being nicer by the end. I think she couldn't resist all my big grins and trying to persuade her into a happier mood. So on the 2nd of November I can go get my visa, hopefully. She mentioned something about waiting on something from Tuebingen but I have no idea what or why.
I was feeling quite successful by this point. I also got a text message saying that my student id card was taken care of and would be sent to me. Now this means it could arrive anytime from next week to next month. Lol. I'll hope for next week. Come on free transportation! (or at least sort of free...)
I felt the pull to frequent my newly favorite tea store, a quaint and cozy little shop that is beautiful and has all lovely things having to do with tea. I walked in and the owner was there, and said I could go behind the counter and look at the teas. And feel free to take off my backpack. So I did. Then he let me smell lots of the yummy teas. So many delicious and exotic choices!! So I settled on a wild cherry black blend and then also a crazy fruity one that is caffiene free. He also gave me a free sample of this summer dream one I had been eyeing. Being the gracious small business owner and friendly guy that he is, he offered me a glass of a tea he had brewing and some chocolate. How could I resist? So we sat down and enjoyed a marvelous cup of tea and nutty chocolate and talking to the customers that came in. It was really wonderful. So perfectly relaxed and European. He used to work with handicapped people (and has their art in his shop, it's very fun) and always told himself he would buy this store when it was up for sale, and this spring it suddenly was so he jumped in and bought it and now he loves coming to work. Doesn't that sound great? : )
I was pulled away from my movie-like tea time because I'd forgotten I was going to stop by Chuck's for tea before he left for Stuttgart for the weekend. Oops! So I rushed over there and we had some tea (also from the same store), a mild and not bitter green tea. Yum. I don't even like green as much, but this stuff is seriously good. I feel so spoiled with the non-bagged tea. Ahhh. And the weather was beautiful today. A perfect fall day with sun and we sat on the balcony overlooking our favorite fat bunnies and the perfect little yard with a bench and lily pond. (Contented sigh)
Then Chuck had to run and he let me stay to use his phone and yes, I spent awhile talking to Mom and Lexi. I love it when people have landlines and let me call home!
Side note: HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHELLE!!! Hope it's going well.
Tonight I'm meeting Mark at a new and shiny bar for drinks because, let's face it, I don't want to spend all evening sitting alone in my room studying. : )
Last night I accidentally ran into the other TAs in town. Beautiful! They invited me along to dinner and it was quite fun. There are two from England and one from Canada. There are two more in town, but they were elsewhere. It is good to meet new people because I feel like while I have met a few good people, my friend circle (Freundkreis) is significantly small right now. I really need to add some Germans to it, perhaps when Uni starts.
I suppose I've gone on enough for one day. Especially about tea. But, to be fair, it is amazing tea! : )
Then I went into town on my hunt for the visa office. It took a few tries because it's a bit hidden, but then I walked the five floors up and waited until the not so happy woman let me in. She insisted I wait until I get a proper appointment although I had everything with me, but she ended up being nicer by the end. I think she couldn't resist all my big grins and trying to persuade her into a happier mood. So on the 2nd of November I can go get my visa, hopefully. She mentioned something about waiting on something from Tuebingen but I have no idea what or why.
I was feeling quite successful by this point. I also got a text message saying that my student id card was taken care of and would be sent to me. Now this means it could arrive anytime from next week to next month. Lol. I'll hope for next week. Come on free transportation! (or at least sort of free...)
I felt the pull to frequent my newly favorite tea store, a quaint and cozy little shop that is beautiful and has all lovely things having to do with tea. I walked in and the owner was there, and said I could go behind the counter and look at the teas. And feel free to take off my backpack. So I did. Then he let me smell lots of the yummy teas. So many delicious and exotic choices!! So I settled on a wild cherry black blend and then also a crazy fruity one that is caffiene free. He also gave me a free sample of this summer dream one I had been eyeing. Being the gracious small business owner and friendly guy that he is, he offered me a glass of a tea he had brewing and some chocolate. How could I resist? So we sat down and enjoyed a marvelous cup of tea and nutty chocolate and talking to the customers that came in. It was really wonderful. So perfectly relaxed and European. He used to work with handicapped people (and has their art in his shop, it's very fun) and always told himself he would buy this store when it was up for sale, and this spring it suddenly was so he jumped in and bought it and now he loves coming to work. Doesn't that sound great? : )
I was pulled away from my movie-like tea time because I'd forgotten I was going to stop by Chuck's for tea before he left for Stuttgart for the weekend. Oops! So I rushed over there and we had some tea (also from the same store), a mild and not bitter green tea. Yum. I don't even like green as much, but this stuff is seriously good. I feel so spoiled with the non-bagged tea. Ahhh. And the weather was beautiful today. A perfect fall day with sun and we sat on the balcony overlooking our favorite fat bunnies and the perfect little yard with a bench and lily pond. (Contented sigh)
Then Chuck had to run and he let me stay to use his phone and yes, I spent awhile talking to Mom and Lexi. I love it when people have landlines and let me call home!
Side note: HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHELLE!!! Hope it's going well.
Tonight I'm meeting Mark at a new and shiny bar for drinks because, let's face it, I don't want to spend all evening sitting alone in my room studying. : )
Last night I accidentally ran into the other TAs in town. Beautiful! They invited me along to dinner and it was quite fun. There are two from England and one from Canada. There are two more in town, but they were elsewhere. It is good to meet new people because I feel like while I have met a few good people, my friend circle (Freundkreis) is significantly small right now. I really need to add some Germans to it, perhaps when Uni starts.
I suppose I've gone on enough for one day. Especially about tea. But, to be fair, it is amazing tea! : )
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Happily Home
I'm back! Sorry I took so long to post an update. I was near Augsburg for my birthday weekend. And yay, I'm back! It's good to be back. Thank you everyone who sent packages, postcards, letters, called, etc. I REALLY appreciate it!!! I felt so loved. Makes it easier to be away.
Since I've been back. Let's see. Yesterday morning I tried to luft and suddenly my window broke. Or at least the handle. Now it won't open. And it's the only window that tilts open from the top, so I have to completely open the others if I want to let in fresh air. The Hausmeister was supposed to stop by last night and have a look at it, but I was at art and it's still broken.
I've also decided my main means of clean laundry this year will be my sink. It's so difficult to find a time to sign up for washing clothes that I will only do jeans and bed stuff when I can. Everything else gets hand-washed and hung up on my rack and/or over my tiny heator.
Bureaucracy is still kicking my butt. I finally got the papers to the nice woman at the Uni and she is going to try and get my student id to me next week. Fingers crossed! However, my quest for a visa is not going so well. I called the office today because they are only open during my working hours, only in the mornings. Sheesh. The woman I talked to was very unkind and told me opposing things then said I couldn't be working without my visa but they couldn't give me an appointment for over a month but I couldn't go to the Uni to get it taken care of because I can't be a student AND employed. But I am. It's possible. She then said that I could do it at the Uni and then she couldn't help me and I wished her a good day through gritted teeth and hung up. I'm going to find another way to do this.
Today I did a class on dating in America and another one on Halloween, which is celebrated much more emphatically in the U.S. I even wrote a little story and had my students finish the ending, either with a story or play that they will read/perform next week. Fun stuff. They were interested and it made it enjoyable. Much better than last week's lesson on regions in the U.S......zzzzzzz.
The weather is nice here. In Augsburg it was yucky. Here the sun is shining and it's warmer, almost 70! So warm. I know, it's still like a heat-wave there, but Germany is a colder climate.
I have to run some errands soon, I need to get more shower curtain rings to hold up the curtain because it's too short and my floor is getting quite wet and the shower curtain then blows in and sticks to me and I spend the whole shower swatting and yelling at the shower curtain. (the cute rubber duckie one Mom sent).
Oh, I almost forgot the train ride(s) to Augsburg! It was quite amusing. Time to play Laugh at what Kate did. So I stopped by Chuck's to drop off some food I didn't want to go bad and he invited me up for tea. I accepted because it's always fun to hang out with him, then I stayed too long and missed two trains. I ran to the train station but just missed them. Then I waited for the next train, about half an hour later. Sadly I'd missed the quick trains and had to take the slow ones. By then I had to pee but didn't want to leave the track because there was nowhere quick to go, so I thought I'd wait because trains always have bathrooms. So I got on and put my stuff down and looked around and didn't see one. I asked the guy next to me and he said this particular kind of train didn't have no. Uh-oh. No!!!! I had just over an hour on it, but I wasn't going to make it. Surely he was kidding. But no. No wc. I tried to think of other things. I tried to listen to music. But after water and two cups of hot tea there was no way I was going to make it. I made the decision to jump. Sigh. So I waited until I got to a larger city (as opposed to a small, one-track station in the middle of nowhere) and got off the train. As luck would have it they were having a big festival and I found clean bathrooms right away. Sadly the next train wasn't for another 40 minutes and then was even slower than the previous. So I grabbed a snack from the bakery and sat and watched the ferris wheel. Finally the train came and I took it to Mannheim where I changed to a faster train for the next 2.5 hours. So after missing trains, having to abandon and wait for more, etc. it took me about 5 hours to get to Augsburg. Dear goodness.
And on the trip back it was a holiday and the last day of Oktoberfest and the trains were more full than I had ever seen. The first half hour I sat on the floor with many other people, then a sweet lady told me of a free seat as she got off, sadly I later got kicked out because some had reserved it, then I had to stand in the aisle. The next train was also very packed so I just stood like a good sardine among many others. As I said earlier, it's good to be home. But it was quite the adventure.
Ok, that is a book! It's about time I walk into town anyhow. Take care! : )
Since I've been back. Let's see. Yesterday morning I tried to luft and suddenly my window broke. Or at least the handle. Now it won't open. And it's the only window that tilts open from the top, so I have to completely open the others if I want to let in fresh air. The Hausmeister was supposed to stop by last night and have a look at it, but I was at art and it's still broken.
I've also decided my main means of clean laundry this year will be my sink. It's so difficult to find a time to sign up for washing clothes that I will only do jeans and bed stuff when I can. Everything else gets hand-washed and hung up on my rack and/or over my tiny heator.
Bureaucracy is still kicking my butt. I finally got the papers to the nice woman at the Uni and she is going to try and get my student id to me next week. Fingers crossed! However, my quest for a visa is not going so well. I called the office today because they are only open during my working hours, only in the mornings. Sheesh. The woman I talked to was very unkind and told me opposing things then said I couldn't be working without my visa but they couldn't give me an appointment for over a month but I couldn't go to the Uni to get it taken care of because I can't be a student AND employed. But I am. It's possible. She then said that I could do it at the Uni and then she couldn't help me and I wished her a good day through gritted teeth and hung up. I'm going to find another way to do this.
Today I did a class on dating in America and another one on Halloween, which is celebrated much more emphatically in the U.S. I even wrote a little story and had my students finish the ending, either with a story or play that they will read/perform next week. Fun stuff. They were interested and it made it enjoyable. Much better than last week's lesson on regions in the U.S......zzzzzzz.
The weather is nice here. In Augsburg it was yucky. Here the sun is shining and it's warmer, almost 70! So warm. I know, it's still like a heat-wave there, but Germany is a colder climate.
I have to run some errands soon, I need to get more shower curtain rings to hold up the curtain because it's too short and my floor is getting quite wet and the shower curtain then blows in and sticks to me and I spend the whole shower swatting and yelling at the shower curtain. (the cute rubber duckie one Mom sent).
Oh, I almost forgot the train ride(s) to Augsburg! It was quite amusing. Time to play Laugh at what Kate did. So I stopped by Chuck's to drop off some food I didn't want to go bad and he invited me up for tea. I accepted because it's always fun to hang out with him, then I stayed too long and missed two trains. I ran to the train station but just missed them. Then I waited for the next train, about half an hour later. Sadly I'd missed the quick trains and had to take the slow ones. By then I had to pee but didn't want to leave the track because there was nowhere quick to go, so I thought I'd wait because trains always have bathrooms. So I got on and put my stuff down and looked around and didn't see one. I asked the guy next to me and he said this particular kind of train didn't have no. Uh-oh. No!!!! I had just over an hour on it, but I wasn't going to make it. Surely he was kidding. But no. No wc. I tried to think of other things. I tried to listen to music. But after water and two cups of hot tea there was no way I was going to make it. I made the decision to jump. Sigh. So I waited until I got to a larger city (as opposed to a small, one-track station in the middle of nowhere) and got off the train. As luck would have it they were having a big festival and I found clean bathrooms right away. Sadly the next train wasn't for another 40 minutes and then was even slower than the previous. So I grabbed a snack from the bakery and sat and watched the ferris wheel. Finally the train came and I took it to Mannheim where I changed to a faster train for the next 2.5 hours. So after missing trains, having to abandon and wait for more, etc. it took me about 5 hours to get to Augsburg. Dear goodness.
And on the trip back it was a holiday and the last day of Oktoberfest and the trains were more full than I had ever seen. The first half hour I sat on the floor with many other people, then a sweet lady told me of a free seat as she got off, sadly I later got kicked out because some had reserved it, then I had to stand in the aisle. The next train was also very packed so I just stood like a good sardine among many others. As I said earlier, it's good to be home. But it was quite the adventure.
Ok, that is a book! It's about time I walk into town anyhow. Take care! : )
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Ploetzlich Lehrerin
My second class today didn't come, I just sat there waiting. Finally I decided it wasn't just normal lateness that prevails in my Gymnasium, so I went to the secretary to find out where my class was exactly. She told me the teacher wasn't here today so the class had a free period. Then I asked her where the principal was because he was my next class, only he wasn't there either and I was supposed to take over his class all by myself only I didn't know it! Oh my goodness. I wasn't sure what I should talk about or what they were working on. Needless to say I was a bit nervous and frustrated for the lack of warning.
However, class went just fine and I did a lesson all by myself which is pretty cool. I was a real teacher today! hee hee. So I'm learning lots here as well, it's not just me playing the role of a live dictionary in the corner. Good stuff.
In a few hours I'll catch a train to Nudi's!!
However, class went just fine and I did a lesson all by myself which is pretty cool. I was a real teacher today! hee hee. So I'm learning lots here as well, it's not just me playing the role of a live dictionary in the corner. Good stuff.
In a few hours I'll catch a train to Nudi's!!
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Vroom Vroom
I drove today! A car. Yep, that's right. I drove a car in Germany. A teacher gave me a ride home and on the way asked if I could drive a clutch. I said not really. So she pulled over to this parking lot and got out and had me take over. Oh dear. I was scared. But it was soooooo cool!!!! And much easier than the cars I've tried at home. It went really well and she said we could do it again. Wow. It was really AWESOME!!!
I'm still having issues getting my student card and visa. It looks like it could still take awhile. Dear goodness. It will just have to wait until I get back from Nudi's.
I'm still having issues getting my student card and visa. It looks like it could still take awhile. Dear goodness. It will just have to wait until I get back from Nudi's.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Neuer Wein Macht Gluecklich
The Weinfest (wine festival) was nice. We saw the vineyards as the train approached, walked next to some as we went through the gorgeous town to the center where the fest was. We did a lap, found a pretty beer/wine garden in the sun where we had lunch and tried a glass of red "neuer wein" (new wine, not yet completely fermented, less alcohol). We sat and enjoyed the pleasant afternoon. Very laid-back. Then we found a creperie stand and had a delicious dessert. After that we located a fun wine tent with a booming German voice coming from an older man with a traditional southern German hat singing funny songs. So we grabbed some wine neuer wein and sat down amongst the older people. Then they started dancing! It was great! This one woman was the instigator and was making her friends get up and dance around. I'm thinking they had more than just one glass of neuer wein! But boy howdy were they having a good time. Ever seen older Germans get down? Well, just come to a beer or wine festival and you will!
Today was a Wandertag (like a field trip day). All of the classes go somewhere, the funny thing is, it doesn't have to be related to school at all. The group I picked went to the Japanese garden in my city so I met them there, it took us about 20 minutes to go around, then they all wanted to go shopping in the Altstadt, so the teacher and I walked around then had a coffee. Lol. Nice. I also saw the market which was wonderful. All the fresh food! We got some Wurst (I love Rotewurst) and walked around some more. Not a bad day of work, hee hee.
And for some reason the entrance was free to the gardens today, so in the afternoon Chuck and I checked out the Gartenschau that also had dinosaurs. Not as many garden areas as I thought there would be, but it will still quite fun. I'm putting some more pics online so feel free to check them out. There's one with the dinosaur. Good stuff.
Thursday I'm going to Nudi's for a long weekend. Should be fun. I like this short work week!
Today the weather was nice as well. I'm liking it.
Today was a Wandertag (like a field trip day). All of the classes go somewhere, the funny thing is, it doesn't have to be related to school at all. The group I picked went to the Japanese garden in my city so I met them there, it took us about 20 minutes to go around, then they all wanted to go shopping in the Altstadt, so the teacher and I walked around then had a coffee. Lol. Nice. I also saw the market which was wonderful. All the fresh food! We got some Wurst (I love Rotewurst) and walked around some more. Not a bad day of work, hee hee.
And for some reason the entrance was free to the gardens today, so in the afternoon Chuck and I checked out the Gartenschau that also had dinosaurs. Not as many garden areas as I thought there would be, but it will still quite fun. I'm putting some more pics online so feel free to check them out. There's one with the dinosaur. Good stuff.
Thursday I'm going to Nudi's for a long weekend. Should be fun. I like this short work week!
Today the weather was nice as well. I'm liking it.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
And God Proclaimed, Let There Be Clean Laundry!
That's right, after three weeks I was finally able to properly do two loads of laundry. I had to take it to my teacher's house a few blocks away, but still no problem. Of course, carrying it up and down the four flights to his apartment (especially wet) was fun. He has no dryer, so I had to use my drying rack and Chuck lent me one of his as well, plus there are sheets and clothes hung up across my wardrobe, bookcase and attached to my shower curtain. I tried to drape a pair of pants across my heator but it's tricky. It is under my desk and very thin and probably not the cleanest. Sadly I had to wash all my pants and we're going to a wine fest in two hours and I really need some pants! So I'm going to resort to using my hair dryer. I actually already used it a bit but then it over-heated. lol.
Thank you Val!! I got your package yesterday. I confess, I sorta opened it. Um, hee hee. Last night we went to the bar/cafe at the top of the Rathaus (the 21st floor) and went out on the balcony and dropped two of the Halloween parachuters off. It was great!! Unfortuntately we couldn't find them when we went back down so we will just have to trust some good German to recycle them for us. But they died for a good cause. You would have been proud. : D
Yesterday it was actually warm. And sunny. I sat outside in my sweater and studied without a coat! Bliss.
German bureaucracy is throwing me through more hoops. I can't get an appointment with the Auslaenderbehoerdersamt until mid-October, and that means no visa until then. Most Fulbrighters already have theirs, I'm not sure why it's taking me forever. But at least they are going to make an exception and give me my student id card before then so I can use the trains. While I really appreciate my kind and generous teachers taking me to and from school, I'm there much longer than I need to be every day. And sitting in the teachers lounge for an extra four hours a day is getting just a tad old. However, soon I will have the sacred Studentenausweis that will allow free usable of the expensive public transportation.
And thanks as well to Mom, Auntie, Meegan and Mary. I keep getting your letters and it really makes my day. I hope Henry is doing better, he's such a sweetie.
Well, I guess it's time to go back to drying my pants, maybe my blowdryer has recovered and is ready for another round!
Thank you Val!! I got your package yesterday. I confess, I sorta opened it. Um, hee hee. Last night we went to the bar/cafe at the top of the Rathaus (the 21st floor) and went out on the balcony and dropped two of the Halloween parachuters off. It was great!! Unfortuntately we couldn't find them when we went back down so we will just have to trust some good German to recycle them for us. But they died for a good cause. You would have been proud. : D
Yesterday it was actually warm. And sunny. I sat outside in my sweater and studied without a coat! Bliss.
German bureaucracy is throwing me through more hoops. I can't get an appointment with the Auslaenderbehoerdersamt until mid-October, and that means no visa until then. Most Fulbrighters already have theirs, I'm not sure why it's taking me forever. But at least they are going to make an exception and give me my student id card before then so I can use the trains. While I really appreciate my kind and generous teachers taking me to and from school, I'm there much longer than I need to be every day. And sitting in the teachers lounge for an extra four hours a day is getting just a tad old. However, soon I will have the sacred Studentenausweis that will allow free usable of the expensive public transportation.
And thanks as well to Mom, Auntie, Meegan and Mary. I keep getting your letters and it really makes my day. I hope Henry is doing better, he's such a sweetie.
Well, I guess it's time to go back to drying my pants, maybe my blowdryer has recovered and is ready for another round!
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Beautiful Freedom
Hi guys! I got my bike today!! It's great. It is pink and white (how very appropriate). I am quite elated. I'll be off to the city after lunch to get a bike lock among other errands. What a happy day.
Now the fun story of how I got it. The teacher apparently didn't forget me, it was a misunderstanding. That happens sometimes when speaking a foreign language. Lol. But she took me with today after school and gave me the bike. Then we only had a few minutes to get to the Bahnhof (train station) before it left for my town. So she drove and I biked behind because her car is a bit small for a bike. i.e. it's a German car. hee hee. But I had to haul and I still couldn't keep up! Imagine: Kate in her work clothes and work shoes with her backpack on, pedalling like a madwoman after a German in a car. Yep, that was me. And I forgot to roll up my pant legs as well. lol. What a foreigner!
When we got to the Bahnhof I was so out of breath and my body was loudly reminding me that it's been awhile since it's done that. Yikes. She was like, "oh, did I drive too quickly?" and I answered, "of" breathe "course" breathe "not" breathe. I don't think she believed me. lol. Then I got to carry my bike on the train, then off the train, and down the stairs and back up the stairs of the station. Lol. That was fun. And when I left the station I forgot if I'm supposed to ride/drive on the street or if I'm allowed to go on the sidewalk. I'll have to ask. I did try a bit on the road. Kinda scary. I had to turn left and this bus was coming up behind me and whew! I've missed such fun!
I also taught my principal's English class today, without much preparation. He didn't really tell me what to do so I just went for it. Then he critiqued. Wow. A bit stressful but also quite helpful. It's time to jump in with both feet! I guess that is what I'm here for, so ok. It's something new and challenging.
Must go eat now. Hope you all are well. The weather today is better. (although this morning it was just above freezing. no over-exaggerating).
Oh, yesterday we were at the Uni and were there for hours only to find out that no, I still cannot get my visa or my student id card and the times I can come back are of course when I'm working. lol. German bureaucracy. It's a unique creature. Fickle. Green. A bit slimy. A poly sci teacher offered to help me, though, so maybe that will work.
Hope you're all well! : )
Now the fun story of how I got it. The teacher apparently didn't forget me, it was a misunderstanding. That happens sometimes when speaking a foreign language. Lol. But she took me with today after school and gave me the bike. Then we only had a few minutes to get to the Bahnhof (train station) before it left for my town. So she drove and I biked behind because her car is a bit small for a bike. i.e. it's a German car. hee hee. But I had to haul and I still couldn't keep up! Imagine: Kate in her work clothes and work shoes with her backpack on, pedalling like a madwoman after a German in a car. Yep, that was me. And I forgot to roll up my pant legs as well. lol. What a foreigner!
When we got to the Bahnhof I was so out of breath and my body was loudly reminding me that it's been awhile since it's done that. Yikes. She was like, "oh, did I drive too quickly?" and I answered, "of" breathe "course" breathe "not" breathe. I don't think she believed me. lol. Then I got to carry my bike on the train, then off the train, and down the stairs and back up the stairs of the station. Lol. That was fun. And when I left the station I forgot if I'm supposed to ride/drive on the street or if I'm allowed to go on the sidewalk. I'll have to ask. I did try a bit on the road. Kinda scary. I had to turn left and this bus was coming up behind me and whew! I've missed such fun!
I also taught my principal's English class today, without much preparation. He didn't really tell me what to do so I just went for it. Then he critiqued. Wow. A bit stressful but also quite helpful. It's time to jump in with both feet! I guess that is what I'm here for, so ok. It's something new and challenging.
Must go eat now. Hope you all are well. The weather today is better. (although this morning it was just above freezing. no over-exaggerating).
Oh, yesterday we were at the Uni and were there for hours only to find out that no, I still cannot get my visa or my student id card and the times I can come back are of course when I'm working. lol. German bureaucracy. It's a unique creature. Fickle. Green. A bit slimy. A poly sci teacher offered to help me, though, so maybe that will work.
Hope you're all well! : )
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Bikeless Me
The teacher who was supposed to lend me her bike for the year forgot to take me home yesterday to pick it up. So I left her a note and she talked to me today, saying she'd take me home after 6th period. I waited. And waited. She forgot me again. Lol. Maybe Thursday will be the lucky day! Still, it's quite nice of her to lend it to me. Just amusing.
Instead, another teacher took me home and showed me where the bus stops were and which lines to take to the university. That was most helpful because German bus schedules always beat me. They are some tricky buggers.
I broke down yesterday and bought a new shower curtain. The one that came with the apartment was quite icky. Smelly and suspiciously mold-friendly. I had to hide against the wall anytime it would move towards me in the shower and decided I just couldn't go on that way. Never mind the smell!
So I went to Karstadt and found the curtains. There was this lovely daisy sunshine yellow one that would brighten my shower and my mornings, but alas, the price tag read 40 Euros. Sadness all around. I put it back on the shelf. Then I found a bunch of 5 Euro curtains. Almost too good to be true. Until I saw what was on them. Was it some corny old lady pattern? No. Perhaps some funky fabric or odd shape? No again. Oh no, they were raunchy shower curtains. That's right, highly inappropriate curtains! Who on earth thought of those and put them in a regular houseware store? I suddenly found myself greatly torn. No way could I afford the happy piece of fabric I wanted, so I shuffled through the offensive curtains and found one that was only mildly embarrassing. I was too tired to hit more stores and refused to give in to the awesome evil that is mold. Therefore I caved and got the clear (ew) plastic shower curtain with hooks on the outside, for your clothes or whatever else you might find the need to hang on your shower curtain (I don't get it).
At school I ended up taking over for a period because my teacher was late so I just started class. When she arrived she asked me to continue because she needed to take care of some things. It's like baptism by fire. It went fairly well. They class was 12th grade which means about 17/18 year olds. I feel more confident with the smaller kids, but it's good to get a chance to try my hand at all ages. It was pretty exciting. I talked to fast, though. I know, I know. Big surprise.
Thank you everyone who is sending me letters, I appreciate them more than you know! I'm off to the bar with the teachers. Somehow that sounds so wrong....... : D
Instead, another teacher took me home and showed me where the bus stops were and which lines to take to the university. That was most helpful because German bus schedules always beat me. They are some tricky buggers.
I broke down yesterday and bought a new shower curtain. The one that came with the apartment was quite icky. Smelly and suspiciously mold-friendly. I had to hide against the wall anytime it would move towards me in the shower and decided I just couldn't go on that way. Never mind the smell!
So I went to Karstadt and found the curtains. There was this lovely daisy sunshine yellow one that would brighten my shower and my mornings, but alas, the price tag read 40 Euros. Sadness all around. I put it back on the shelf. Then I found a bunch of 5 Euro curtains. Almost too good to be true. Until I saw what was on them. Was it some corny old lady pattern? No. Perhaps some funky fabric or odd shape? No again. Oh no, they were raunchy shower curtains. That's right, highly inappropriate curtains! Who on earth thought of those and put them in a regular houseware store? I suddenly found myself greatly torn. No way could I afford the happy piece of fabric I wanted, so I shuffled through the offensive curtains and found one that was only mildly embarrassing. I was too tired to hit more stores and refused to give in to the awesome evil that is mold. Therefore I caved and got the clear (ew) plastic shower curtain with hooks on the outside, for your clothes or whatever else you might find the need to hang on your shower curtain (I don't get it).
At school I ended up taking over for a period because my teacher was late so I just started class. When she arrived she asked me to continue because she needed to take care of some things. It's like baptism by fire. It went fairly well. They class was 12th grade which means about 17/18 year olds. I feel more confident with the smaller kids, but it's good to get a chance to try my hand at all ages. It was pretty exciting. I talked to fast, though. I know, I know. Big surprise.
Thank you everyone who is sending me letters, I appreciate them more than you know! I'm off to the bar with the teachers. Somehow that sounds so wrong....... : D
Monday, September 19, 2005
Political Instability
Ok, so it's not really "unstable" here, but wow the elections are exciting this time!! At first we thought it would be boring because the Germans get their results right away, so Chuck and I didn't really see the point in the Wahlparty other than to be with friends and enjoy a fun meal. But then the fun started!
The CDU was supposed to get more votes, but the SPD and CDU got almost the same percent, and not enough to build a coalition with just one of the smaller parties. Last night it was CDU at around 35% and SPD 35%, FDP 10%, Gruene 8% and Linke 8%. But the SPD refuses to work with the Gruene, and they feel the same. SPD wants to work with the FDP, but on t.v. the leader just laughed at Schroeder and said no way. They had a talk show thing on with all the leaders of the parties and it was so funny! Schroeder was so sure he would still lead the country but it just doesn't seem possible. So right now the whole country is waiting to see what kind of coalition will be built in order for the country to have a "stable government" as they kept saying over and over. My guess is CDU, FDP and Gruene.
Therefore, while you may find out what people voted right away, that does in no way mean you know who will run the country! What fun.
I'm taking the train to work to day for the first time. I just need to figure out how to get from the train station to my school. Therefore I'm taking an earily train. But it's great because instead of leaving before 7, I get to go about 10. Very nice! At least today. Monday looks like it will be my later day to start. : D
They turned my heat on last night. Thank goodness. It was about 3C, so quite chilly.
At the end of October my state has two weeks vacation (each state has different times off) and Chuck and I decided to hit the south of France for a few days. Crazy, isn't it? If it weren't for cheap flights we could never afford it, but it's unbelieveable how cheaply you can fly for on certain airlines if you are flexible! We're going to Montpellier.
Miss you all! : )
The CDU was supposed to get more votes, but the SPD and CDU got almost the same percent, and not enough to build a coalition with just one of the smaller parties. Last night it was CDU at around 35% and SPD 35%, FDP 10%, Gruene 8% and Linke 8%. But the SPD refuses to work with the Gruene, and they feel the same. SPD wants to work with the FDP, but on t.v. the leader just laughed at Schroeder and said no way. They had a talk show thing on with all the leaders of the parties and it was so funny! Schroeder was so sure he would still lead the country but it just doesn't seem possible. So right now the whole country is waiting to see what kind of coalition will be built in order for the country to have a "stable government" as they kept saying over and over. My guess is CDU, FDP and Gruene.
Therefore, while you may find out what people voted right away, that does in no way mean you know who will run the country! What fun.
I'm taking the train to work to day for the first time. I just need to figure out how to get from the train station to my school. Therefore I'm taking an earily train. But it's great because instead of leaving before 7, I get to go about 10. Very nice! At least today. Monday looks like it will be my later day to start. : D
They turned my heat on last night. Thank goodness. It was about 3C, so quite chilly.
At the end of October my state has two weeks vacation (each state has different times off) and Chuck and I decided to hit the south of France for a few days. Crazy, isn't it? If it weren't for cheap flights we could never afford it, but it's unbelieveable how cheaply you can fly for on certain airlines if you are flexible! We're going to Montpellier.
Miss you all! : )
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Autumn
Fall arrived today. Time to pull out the sweaters, scarves and light jackets. Luckily I have a fuzzy soft jacket Shanna gave me that is perfect for this weather! The sun shone all day so it was nice as well.
I should be studying, but there was cleaning to do and then I needed to run errands in the city and I stopped in a cozy cafe to have a piece of sinfully delicious chocolate cake (doesn't even compare to what we have at home!) and was joined by an older German couple. People will just sit at your table if there's no free tables. I like it. So we got to talking and they know a teacher at my school and invited me over for sometime in the future. Quite nice.
Soon I'm off to Chuck's to have dinner with him and his Mitbewohners (roommates). They are having sushi. I admit I'm not a big fan of fish, especially when uncooked, but that is part of being here and meeting people, saying yes to invitations.
At six in the evening the bells always ring like mad. I love it.
I should be studying, but there was cleaning to do and then I needed to run errands in the city and I stopped in a cozy cafe to have a piece of sinfully delicious chocolate cake (doesn't even compare to what we have at home!) and was joined by an older German couple. People will just sit at your table if there's no free tables. I like it. So we got to talking and they know a teacher at my school and invited me over for sometime in the future. Quite nice.
Soon I'm off to Chuck's to have dinner with him and his Mitbewohners (roommates). They are having sushi. I admit I'm not a big fan of fish, especially when uncooked, but that is part of being here and meeting people, saying yes to invitations.
At six in the evening the bells always ring like mad. I love it.
Friday, September 16, 2005
Happy to be Here
I just wanted to say how much I love Germany and love being able to be here. So while I get way lonely or miss the sun or wish I were in a home instead of a small room with concrete walls, I am still so grateful to be here. I hope everyone else is having a wonderful day. I miss you all!
Oh yeah, and the latin scene last night was pretty good. I was quite happy.
Oh yeah, and the latin scene last night was pretty good. I was quite happy.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Figuring Things Out
Today I had more time to myself at school and fewer classes, I think mostly because people just didn't think to ask me to come, and after the last two very full days, I was no longer so adamant about asking to go. I do need to read three books soon, though.
I also went with the principal to one of his English classes (principals are required to teach as well here) and I took over the entire hour talking about American schools. Then he gave me all their workbooks to correct two homework assignments. I felt like such a teacher! hee hee.
I asked the principal if I could have Fridays off because they mentioned that at orientation and it's quite normal since we only have to work 12 hours a week and I'm commuting, but he made it quite clear that he didn't think it was a good idea. Darn it! So not only do I have to work every day for maybe 3 hours, but I felt like such a jerk for asking. But everyone else seems to have Fridays off and their teachers thought it was normal. Hmmm.
This afternoon I went around town trying to find the last of my art supplies, and I got everything but the Graphitstift 9B. Apparently every artsy store in the town is out! Oh well. Yeah, my art class last night went well, except I didn't understand all the artsy terms, and I think the teacher was losing patience with my blatant lack of ability. She eventually asked if she could help and took my pencil and started doing it for me. Oops. Hey, it IS a beginner course!!
While I was shopping for specific pencils and chocolate (got a craving for Rittersport, I hadn't had any yet!) I found some nice pink Hausschuhe ganz billig because my floor here is always so dirty that my socks turn black. Or my feet. Ew. No matter how often I sweep. Same thing happened in Tuebingen. Why is it so dirty here?
Speaking of dirt, the washer in my building is broken. I really need to do laundry and had signed up for tomorrow. We have ONE washer and dryer for over 200 people and it is broken. I gave in and washed socks and other necessaries in the sink and they are hanging in the middle of my room because there is nowhere else to put them. Sadly I forgot I'd invited Chuck for dinner and I can't hide my laundry. Lol.
Did I mention I got a bike? Or at least will have one soon. A teacher is giving it to me next week and I can already smell the freedom!
And when I shopped today I found the street with Mueller. It made me feel at home. Now I have a good grocery store, a Mueller, Post, Bank, H&M and C&A. Ahhhh. It just feels more homey.
That's enough of a book for today. Hope you all are well!
I also went with the principal to one of his English classes (principals are required to teach as well here) and I took over the entire hour talking about American schools. Then he gave me all their workbooks to correct two homework assignments. I felt like such a teacher! hee hee.
I asked the principal if I could have Fridays off because they mentioned that at orientation and it's quite normal since we only have to work 12 hours a week and I'm commuting, but he made it quite clear that he didn't think it was a good idea. Darn it! So not only do I have to work every day for maybe 3 hours, but I felt like such a jerk for asking. But everyone else seems to have Fridays off and their teachers thought it was normal. Hmmm.
This afternoon I went around town trying to find the last of my art supplies, and I got everything but the Graphitstift 9B. Apparently every artsy store in the town is out! Oh well. Yeah, my art class last night went well, except I didn't understand all the artsy terms, and I think the teacher was losing patience with my blatant lack of ability. She eventually asked if she could help and took my pencil and started doing it for me. Oops. Hey, it IS a beginner course!!
While I was shopping for specific pencils and chocolate (got a craving for Rittersport, I hadn't had any yet!) I found some nice pink Hausschuhe ganz billig because my floor here is always so dirty that my socks turn black. Or my feet. Ew. No matter how often I sweep. Same thing happened in Tuebingen. Why is it so dirty here?
Speaking of dirt, the washer in my building is broken. I really need to do laundry and had signed up for tomorrow. We have ONE washer and dryer for over 200 people and it is broken. I gave in and washed socks and other necessaries in the sink and they are hanging in the middle of my room because there is nowhere else to put them. Sadly I forgot I'd invited Chuck for dinner and I can't hide my laundry. Lol.
Did I mention I got a bike? Or at least will have one soon. A teacher is giving it to me next week and I can already smell the freedom!
And when I shopped today I found the street with Mueller. It made me feel at home. Now I have a good grocery store, a Mueller, Post, Bank, H&M and C&A. Ahhhh. It just feels more homey.
That's enough of a book for today. Hope you all are well!
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Artsy Me
Today I felt like such an artiste! I had to get supplies for my art class that starts tomorrow so I ran around town going to different stores. It was quite fun. And I keep getting mistaken for being French, which I find quite cool because it means they can't tell I'm American. Very nice.
I got Mom's package today. Juhu! The sweater makes me look really German which I LOVE, and I definitely needed the kitchen stuff. And now I have a mini Zeus. What could be better? It made my day.
School was pretty good today. A couple classes got a bit excited about my being there (which hadn't really happened before). I think I'm going to really enjoy the 6th/7th grades.
Still looking for a bike. I put up a note on the teachers' board. It is really full so I hope someone sees it. And doesn't laugh too hard at my attempt of begging for a bike in German.
Mom - are you keeping up with Gilmore because you haven't written me to tell me!!
I splurged today while buying art supplies and got a yellow rubber duckie holder for my shower soap. It may sound trivial, but it is quite the duck, let me assure you! Very much worth all the excitement. : )
I got Mom's package today. Juhu! The sweater makes me look really German which I LOVE, and I definitely needed the kitchen stuff. And now I have a mini Zeus. What could be better? It made my day.
School was pretty good today. A couple classes got a bit excited about my being there (which hadn't really happened before). I think I'm going to really enjoy the 6th/7th grades.
Still looking for a bike. I put up a note on the teachers' board. It is really full so I hope someone sees it. And doesn't laugh too hard at my attempt of begging for a bike in German.
Mom - are you keeping up with Gilmore because you haven't written me to tell me!!
I splurged today while buying art supplies and got a yellow rubber duckie holder for my shower soap. It may sound trivial, but it is quite the duck, let me assure you! Very much worth all the excitement. : )
Monday, September 12, 2005
Locked in a Monastery
That is how I spent the last several days (though it felt like much more). Locked in a monastery, though it was quite beautiful, in the middle of nowhere. We had gorgeous weather the first few days, sun and warmth and it was so green and lush out there, and add to that the backdrop of a lovely church and monastery.
However, there wasn't even a place to buy soap nearby, the closest town being almost 3 km away and only accessible by foot. So some people had to give up and be smelly. In the evenings they locked us in and sold alcohol so you can only imagine what kind of evenings followed.
There were 123 of us Fulbrighters, a bit more than the 80 positions they claimed to offer. Then there were another 50 kids from the UK at our orientation as well. Apparently they do several of these, and there are about 1000 language assistants, I think all English speaking, in Germany. Crazy. Then there are also other languages as well. I guess the Germans really want to get their languages right. Very admirable.
The classes were ok, though I felt it was too long and we could have shortened it. We did have to plan our own lesson with a group and present it then be critiqued on it.
I met some interesting folks that it will be fun to keep in touch with and go visit this year. And there are seven of us here in K-Town (four from Great Britain, one from Canada, and us two Americans, though I've only really talked to Chuck. He's quite cool and it's great because he lives two blocks from me in this totally posh apartment that is so gorgeous.
I have work bright and early tomorrow and I'm hoping to ask if I can have Fridays off and just work four days a week. My art class starts on Wednesday and I'm very excited.
I also hear that a cafe very nearby has Salsa dancing on Thursdays. I am so checking that out! How perfect would that be?
However, there wasn't even a place to buy soap nearby, the closest town being almost 3 km away and only accessible by foot. So some people had to give up and be smelly. In the evenings they locked us in and sold alcohol so you can only imagine what kind of evenings followed.
There were 123 of us Fulbrighters, a bit more than the 80 positions they claimed to offer. Then there were another 50 kids from the UK at our orientation as well. Apparently they do several of these, and there are about 1000 language assistants, I think all English speaking, in Germany. Crazy. Then there are also other languages as well. I guess the Germans really want to get their languages right. Very admirable.
The classes were ok, though I felt it was too long and we could have shortened it. We did have to plan our own lesson with a group and present it then be critiqued on it.
I met some interesting folks that it will be fun to keep in touch with and go visit this year. And there are seven of us here in K-Town (four from Great Britain, one from Canada, and us two Americans, though I've only really talked to Chuck. He's quite cool and it's great because he lives two blocks from me in this totally posh apartment that is so gorgeous.
I have work bright and early tomorrow and I'm hoping to ask if I can have Fridays off and just work four days a week. My art class starts on Wednesday and I'm very excited.
I also hear that a cafe very nearby has Salsa dancing on Thursdays. I am so checking that out! How perfect would that be?
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Hi My Name's Kate
Day Two of school and I went to six classes today with three different teachers. They have about 13 English teachers at my school, so it will take me a week or two (once I get back) to go around with them and see which classes I want to help. And what teachers. There were two today that I really liked, a couple that I wouldn't be heartbroken if I didn't go back....hee hee. The teachers didn't use me much, but it's still early. Mostly I stood in front, introduced myself, said where I'm from, then waited for questions. One teacher just put me in her chair and had me take over for the hour since it was a sort of free period. It was definitely close to pulling teeth because there weren't many questions. Overall a good day, though.
Tonight I'm meeting some teachers in a bar in the Altstadt. Should be interesting.
I had a craving for Doener tonight (yummy Turkish dish that they shave off of a rotating spittle thing) and the server was really nice, he gave me a free yogurt/salty whatnot drink with my sandwich. I hesistated a bit before trying it, but out of politeness I had to oblige. It was actually pretty good!
I suppose I ought to study before I go out tonight, I've been a bit behind in my homework. Oops. It's just so exciting here!
Tonight I'm meeting some teachers in a bar in the Altstadt. Should be interesting.
I had a craving for Doener tonight (yummy Turkish dish that they shave off of a rotating spittle thing) and the server was really nice, he gave me a free yogurt/salty whatnot drink with my sandwich. I hesistated a bit before trying it, but out of politeness I had to oblige. It was actually pretty good!
I suppose I ought to study before I go out tonight, I've been a bit behind in my homework. Oops. It's just so exciting here!
Monday, September 05, 2005
D for Dumb
Ok so I'm a bit of a moron. As I was packing for Koeln for tomorrow morning it occured to me that that was too much clothes for the number of days. So I counted again, then looked at my calendar and papers. I'm supposed to go on Wednesday, not Tuesday. I had my dates confused. So then I had to call my teacher back and confess I'm a bit dazed and confused. But it's all good now. Man do I feel silly.
What's my sign?
My first day of school went well. A bit slow, but that's ok. We had a teachers' meeting and I met lots of people whose names I couldn't pronounce let alone remember. I only went to one class, class 12, with a teacher and when I get back from Koeln (I leave tomorrow) I will go around with the different English teachers (there are six) and figure out who I want to work with and what age groups and such. Then we'll make me a plan of sorts. I'm excited. What's really great is that school is normally done at 1 pm here. : D
Teachers also have their own bathrooms because they think the students are too dirty! How funny is that? I feel so privileged.
On a totally different note, I think I must have some flashing neon light somewhere on me that I've missed because I keep getting asked out. Over and over by random strangers. One even bothered to follow me in his car and get out. Needless to say I told him a big fat no way buddy. There was a really cute one today, but sadly he didn't try to hit on me. Oh well. I did end up having a very pleasant conversation with a guy from Cameroon in the park this evening. He even had on long white robe thingies that were quite foreign and interesting.
The Hausmeister just got here and is fixing my shower head. All right! Maybe tomorrow morning showering will be less of a challenging game and more like simply taking a shower. Not that it didn't make life more interesting...
Hope you're all having a great week!
Teachers also have their own bathrooms because they think the students are too dirty! How funny is that? I feel so privileged.
On a totally different note, I think I must have some flashing neon light somewhere on me that I've missed because I keep getting asked out. Over and over by random strangers. One even bothered to follow me in his car and get out. Needless to say I told him a big fat no way buddy. There was a really cute one today, but sadly he didn't try to hit on me. Oh well. I did end up having a very pleasant conversation with a guy from Cameroon in the park this evening. He even had on long white robe thingies that were quite foreign and interesting.
The Hausmeister just got here and is fixing my shower head. All right! Maybe tomorrow morning showering will be less of a challenging game and more like simply taking a shower. Not that it didn't make life more interesting...
Hope you're all having a great week!
Sunday, September 04, 2005
Volksfest
Hallo Alle! Wie geht's euch? I'm currently sitting in front of my wonderfully large windows "lufting". (i.e. letting fresh air in since Germany has yet to see the benefits of central air systems. That's right folks, it may be snowing outside, but you're still going to open your windows for some substantial amount of time each day.)
This weekend there's been a sort of community festival in town, and last night I finally checked it out. Probably because until last night I couldn't keep myself upright after the hour of 8. It was great! It was spread out through the Altstadt (old city center, where it's cobblestone and not many cars and all sorts of shops and cafes, what you think of when you think of Europe in movies or pictures). There were several bands in different areas and all sorts of food. It's been so long since I enjoyed a proper Rotewurst and wow, echt lecker!! (really yummy) What's so exciting about these kind of events is that such a crowd comes out. The night air was still fairly warm and the streets were filled with people enjoying the festivities. It doesn't really compare to ones I've seen in the U.S.
Yesterday I was smart enough to go grocery shopping. I remember so many times during my last trip that I forgot that everything was closed on Sundays and many a Sunday were spent eating pasta. Pasta with butter, pasta with olive oil.....lol.
Megan-actually no, I'm still working on the recycling situation. It is bothering me because you know how hard I try to be a "good German" and I am definitely not out to get on Recyclemanns bad side!
I'd really like to stop lufting now...it's getting quite chilly in here. But then I wouldn't be a good German if I gave up so easily!
This weekend there's been a sort of community festival in town, and last night I finally checked it out. Probably because until last night I couldn't keep myself upright after the hour of 8. It was great! It was spread out through the Altstadt (old city center, where it's cobblestone and not many cars and all sorts of shops and cafes, what you think of when you think of Europe in movies or pictures). There were several bands in different areas and all sorts of food. It's been so long since I enjoyed a proper Rotewurst and wow, echt lecker!! (really yummy) What's so exciting about these kind of events is that such a crowd comes out. The night air was still fairly warm and the streets were filled with people enjoying the festivities. It doesn't really compare to ones I've seen in the U.S.
Yesterday I was smart enough to go grocery shopping. I remember so many times during my last trip that I forgot that everything was closed on Sundays and many a Sunday were spent eating pasta. Pasta with butter, pasta with olive oil.....lol.
Megan-actually no, I'm still working on the recycling situation. It is bothering me because you know how hard I try to be a "good German" and I am definitely not out to get on Recyclemanns bad side!
I'd really like to stop lufting now...it's getting quite chilly in here. But then I wouldn't be a good German if I gave up so easily!
Saturday, September 03, 2005
What's that smell?
As I waited in line the other day to speak to the Hausmeister and Landlord, other students were also waiting b/c they are only there M-F from 3-5. It was quite interesting b/c there were some kids from far far away. Then in walks this nice African boy in a pleasant blue shirt and a pretty blue skirt. I must say, he wore it well.
He took his place in line behind me, but a safe distance back, until more people showed up. He was quite close at this point, when it suddenly hit me, oh dear goodness, what is that smell? Now I realize by this time I was no flower bed myself, but wow. However, life in Germany is just like that. I remember so many smelly moments from my last time here..... : D
I'm also still working on sleeping through the night. Since that didn't happen again, I spent the lovely hours between 1 and 4 this morning listening to a guy practice his guitar somewhere in the building. I can hear it faintly from my room, especially when I crack my window. I'm glad I'm not the only one not sleeping.
As for the trash/recycling, it wasn't fully explained to me and there are still questions. Although I have a wonderful view of all the recycling bins from my windows, I'm not sure what all they are. They're not even labeled. Come on now folks, lots of foreigners and no labels? It's not like we're German and pre-programmed to magically find a way and means to recycle everything. We need help, prodding, pretty pictures and nice big letters.
There are constantly airplanes flying over. Welcome to life next to an airbase. At the airport I saw some American military guys and almost asked them to give me a ride but then felt a bit guilty about it and decided not to. I'd still like to go see the base sometime, however, and not just listen to their aircraft. Why must they fly over so often?
He took his place in line behind me, but a safe distance back, until more people showed up. He was quite close at this point, when it suddenly hit me, oh dear goodness, what is that smell? Now I realize by this time I was no flower bed myself, but wow. However, life in Germany is just like that. I remember so many smelly moments from my last time here..... : D
I'm also still working on sleeping through the night. Since that didn't happen again, I spent the lovely hours between 1 and 4 this morning listening to a guy practice his guitar somewhere in the building. I can hear it faintly from my room, especially when I crack my window. I'm glad I'm not the only one not sleeping.
As for the trash/recycling, it wasn't fully explained to me and there are still questions. Although I have a wonderful view of all the recycling bins from my windows, I'm not sure what all they are. They're not even labeled. Come on now folks, lots of foreigners and no labels? It's not like we're German and pre-programmed to magically find a way and means to recycle everything. We need help, prodding, pretty pictures and nice big letters.
There are constantly airplanes flying over. Welcome to life next to an airbase. At the airport I saw some American military guys and almost asked them to give me a ride but then felt a bit guilty about it and decided not to. I'd still like to go see the base sometime, however, and not just listen to their aircraft. Why must they fly over so often?
Friday, September 02, 2005
Day Two
I'm here. And doing well. Very tired, jet-lagged and the such, but good. Sam, you're correct, I did end up sitting by a stunningly attractive German boy on the way over, sadly we didn't talk til the end, but he did indeed help me through the airport. It was quite enjoyable. : D
My room is good. Small, three huge windows, a bathroom all to myself (I'm pretending that the mold I've found does not exist until I have the means and energy to tackle it-Megan, thought you'd appreciate that!), the "kitchen" is half a sink, half a fridge, and two burners. No oven. And it's as you walk in, so I stand in front of the door to cook. But I love it all.
Herr Neukirch, a teacher I'll be working with, has been amazing. He's been helping me with everything, especially sticky German bureaucracy.
My room is in a large private student housing complex, with tons of foreigners though I've not met many people yet, just a nice Chinese boy that I can't pronounce the name of.
I do have net, got it today, highly unexpectedly and welcomed with open arms and a blessing on the guy who set it up and lent me the cable. May he live a happy and wealthy life, kind and generous soul. : )
It is so gorgeous here. The buildings are beautiful, the weather has even been good, everyone has been nice and helpful....ahh, I really missed being here. On the other hand I'm terribly homesick (I think a lot of it has to do with lack of sleep) but I miss you all more than you know and yes, I realize it's only been two days, but let's not get hung up on details.
I'll say goodnight before this turns into a book. Oh! Monday I start work, Tuesday I head up to Koeln (Cologne) for my week of orientation. Just to let you know what's coming up.
You guys take care and I love and miss you lots. Big hugs to all.
: D
My room is good. Small, three huge windows, a bathroom all to myself (I'm pretending that the mold I've found does not exist until I have the means and energy to tackle it-Megan, thought you'd appreciate that!), the "kitchen" is half a sink, half a fridge, and two burners. No oven. And it's as you walk in, so I stand in front of the door to cook. But I love it all.
Herr Neukirch, a teacher I'll be working with, has been amazing. He's been helping me with everything, especially sticky German bureaucracy.
My room is in a large private student housing complex, with tons of foreigners though I've not met many people yet, just a nice Chinese boy that I can't pronounce the name of.
I do have net, got it today, highly unexpectedly and welcomed with open arms and a blessing on the guy who set it up and lent me the cable. May he live a happy and wealthy life, kind and generous soul. : )
It is so gorgeous here. The buildings are beautiful, the weather has even been good, everyone has been nice and helpful....ahh, I really missed being here. On the other hand I'm terribly homesick (I think a lot of it has to do with lack of sleep) but I miss you all more than you know and yes, I realize it's only been two days, but let's not get hung up on details.
I'll say goodnight before this turns into a book. Oh! Monday I start work, Tuesday I head up to Koeln (Cologne) for my week of orientation. Just to let you know what's coming up.
You guys take care and I love and miss you lots. Big hugs to all.
: D
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Pre-Departure
It's almost 7 a.m. and I'm packed. Surprisingly enough everything fits into my giant luggage without me sitting on it or having to use the handy-dandy expanding zipper. I would be fairly impressed if I hadn't caved and already shipped myself another small box. But you know those pesky weight limits for luggage? Yeah, mine was just a bit over. Don't ask how I'll get all of this from train to train in 3 minutes with a serious lack of sleep.
I'll let you know when I get to Germany safe and sound and am conscious enough to find an internet cafe.
I'll let you know when I get to Germany safe and sound and am conscious enough to find an internet cafe.
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