Are you wondering what that is? Privatized Military Industry. And there's a most interesting and accurate article about Blackwater and PMF's (privatized military firms) in general in the BBC at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7000645.stm
Just thought I would share!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
It's Still Raining
Seriously. Wow.
Mary, the book is titled:
Conflicts in the Middle East since 1945, and the chapter is number 1, The Arab-Israeli Conflict: Ways of War. It's by Milton, Edwards, Beverly, Hinchcliff and Peter, 2001.
I've not actually read it yet, but it looks interesting enough. Instead, I attempted to finish up my Intercultural Problems reading last night, when after a few pages I was really confused, checked page numbers, and realized she had only given us every other page. That would explain why it wasn't making sense to me! And I just thought it was my German. lol.
Today I have class from 10-6, although I am dropping my 10 o'clock class, at least officially.
All right, my lazy bum should stop playing online and get ready so I can brave the cold rain and find a way to Uni.
: )
Mary, the book is titled:
Conflicts in the Middle East since 1945, and the chapter is number 1, The Arab-Israeli Conflict: Ways of War. It's by Milton, Edwards, Beverly, Hinchcliff and Peter, 2001.
I've not actually read it yet, but it looks interesting enough. Instead, I attempted to finish up my Intercultural Problems reading last night, when after a few pages I was really confused, checked page numbers, and realized she had only given us every other page. That would explain why it wasn't making sense to me! And I just thought it was my German. lol.
Today I have class from 10-6, although I am dropping my 10 o'clock class, at least officially.
All right, my lazy bum should stop playing online and get ready so I can brave the cold rain and find a way to Uni.
: )
Monday, October 29, 2007
Oh to have a poncho...or a mumu
The second week of classes has started! My German was thoroughly sucking today, and I could barely get a decent sentence out. I sat through my Politics of Migration class and barely understood a word. The nice girl next to me asked me a few questions, and I didn't have the faintest idea what she was saying. You know when you watch the Spanish channel and how fast they speak? In class, it seems Germans are able to match that speed! Holy smoke, Batman! I will have to try harder tomorrow.
Also, I think I am down to just four classes, which is definitely enough work. I might still attend my Middle East class just for knowledge and fun (did I just write fun?), but I don't want to write the big paper at the end and give the presentation. Plus, I think I was signed up for the presentation in 10 days, and Dad will still be here, and that would be way too much work.
It rained all day today. Heavily. From the moment I woke up (earlier than I had to because I thought I had a 10 am class and did not) until, no wait, yep, it's still raining!
I tried taking public transit to Uni today, but that is not easy. Angelina and I had different opinions about which would be the fastest way to Uni. I said, taking the number 25 bus to Sierichstrasse, then catching the U3 over to Kellinghusenstrasse and switching to the U1, and then exiting at Hallerstrasse and walking the ten minutes or so to campus. She thought I should do something else. I think I'm right. lol. Still, it took about 45 minutes to get there. I like the bike idea. Just not in the pouring rain. Maybe if I get a big poncho? You know, the kind that look like big mumus? Did I spell mumu right? It's just one of those words you don't use everyday. I mean, it's not like I get up and say, "hey Monica, do you remember where I put my multi-colored mumu last night?" And she would say, "no, but I think your flower print one is hanging up to dry in the basement." You see my point?
Angelina's mother is coming in from Nice, France tonight. And Dad will be here Wednesday! Yay! Right now he's poolside in Dubai. Ahhhh. And Mom started her new job today, fingers crossed for her!
I suppose I should get back to my readings. It's either read about the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict (of which I know appallingly little!), watch Bridget Jones' Diary 2, or read a bit from Mountains Beyond Mountains or Stephen Colbert's I Am America (So Can You). Hmmm, all so very tempting!
Also, I think I am down to just four classes, which is definitely enough work. I might still attend my Middle East class just for knowledge and fun (did I just write fun?), but I don't want to write the big paper at the end and give the presentation. Plus, I think I was signed up for the presentation in 10 days, and Dad will still be here, and that would be way too much work.
It rained all day today. Heavily. From the moment I woke up (earlier than I had to because I thought I had a 10 am class and did not) until, no wait, yep, it's still raining!
I tried taking public transit to Uni today, but that is not easy. Angelina and I had different opinions about which would be the fastest way to Uni. I said, taking the number 25 bus to Sierichstrasse, then catching the U3 over to Kellinghusenstrasse and switching to the U1, and then exiting at Hallerstrasse and walking the ten minutes or so to campus. She thought I should do something else. I think I'm right. lol. Still, it took about 45 minutes to get there. I like the bike idea. Just not in the pouring rain. Maybe if I get a big poncho? You know, the kind that look like big mumus? Did I spell mumu right? It's just one of those words you don't use everyday. I mean, it's not like I get up and say, "hey Monica, do you remember where I put my multi-colored mumu last night?" And she would say, "no, but I think your flower print one is hanging up to dry in the basement." You see my point?
Angelina's mother is coming in from Nice, France tonight. And Dad will be here Wednesday! Yay! Right now he's poolside in Dubai. Ahhhh. And Mom started her new job today, fingers crossed for her!
I suppose I should get back to my readings. It's either read about the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict (of which I know appallingly little!), watch Bridget Jones' Diary 2, or read a bit from Mountains Beyond Mountains or Stephen Colbert's I Am America (So Can You). Hmmm, all so very tempting!
Oh, by the way, I'm back to drying my clothes on my heater. I love the heaters here. But nothing says you're living in Germany like underwear drying on the heater!
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Deck the Halls
If only it were that easy to find Spaetzle here! The southern German foods like Spaetzle (a favorite of mine!) and Maultaschen don't really exist here. I find it sad.
Yesterday I had planned on studying a bunch, and I only got through a small amount of reading. I forgot that it's going to take me longer to read academic articles in German. lol. I got a bit frustrated, and after I finished one, I took my Colbert book to the park and read in the very gray, cold weather.
Andrew (FB) sms ed me and said he was going to an art fair in town in the evening and did I want to come? Aparently several galleries and shops were staying open until midnight. Sounded like fun to me! So I traveled on all sorts of public transit (bike to Underground, switched trains, then there was construction so I had to exit the train and find the bus that was temporary transportation due to the construction), but I finally got there. We walked around and only looked at two galleries. One was pretty pathetic, I think, and the other had some interesting art and some I could do without. There was this room that had all sorts of interesting scaffolding and we were told to come and sit down so we could be photographed. So we sat and watched the funny videos they had playing and looked at the several books of just colors. Bound books and each page was a color and that was it. We picked one up and started flipping through it, when a German came over and said those were not to be touched. Seriously? It wasn't really that special. lol.
Afterwards we checked out some of the shops in town, then a greasy food craving hit and we searched for fries. However, we got distracted b/c they had already set up a Christmas market! So we got Gluehwein (glowing, warm wine) and looked at the huge pile of snow they had created for some slide thing. Some Germans were dancing to traditional music and we were tempted to join, but decided the fries were more important. Sadly, the shops were closing by then and the German place we wanted said they weren't serving, and the only place left was McDonald's. And you know what? It was crazy packed. lol. I think the Germans like it more than we do!
It was definitely a fun evening out. Today the goal is really to study, but I guess I have to since class is tomorrow. And Dad comes on Wednesday! Juhu! I think about now he's either on his way or already in Dubai, relaxing poolside. Can I come? : )
Yesterday I had planned on studying a bunch, and I only got through a small amount of reading. I forgot that it's going to take me longer to read academic articles in German. lol. I got a bit frustrated, and after I finished one, I took my Colbert book to the park and read in the very gray, cold weather.
Andrew (FB) sms ed me and said he was going to an art fair in town in the evening and did I want to come? Aparently several galleries and shops were staying open until midnight. Sounded like fun to me! So I traveled on all sorts of public transit (bike to Underground, switched trains, then there was construction so I had to exit the train and find the bus that was temporary transportation due to the construction), but I finally got there. We walked around and only looked at two galleries. One was pretty pathetic, I think, and the other had some interesting art and some I could do without. There was this room that had all sorts of interesting scaffolding and we were told to come and sit down so we could be photographed. So we sat and watched the funny videos they had playing and looked at the several books of just colors. Bound books and each page was a color and that was it. We picked one up and started flipping through it, when a German came over and said those were not to be touched. Seriously? It wasn't really that special. lol.
Afterwards we checked out some of the shops in town, then a greasy food craving hit and we searched for fries. However, we got distracted b/c they had already set up a Christmas market! So we got Gluehwein (glowing, warm wine) and looked at the huge pile of snow they had created for some slide thing. Some Germans were dancing to traditional music and we were tempted to join, but decided the fries were more important. Sadly, the shops were closing by then and the German place we wanted said they weren't serving, and the only place left was McDonald's. And you know what? It was crazy packed. lol. I think the Germans like it more than we do!
It was definitely a fun evening out. Today the goal is really to study, but I guess I have to since class is tomorrow. And Dad comes on Wednesday! Juhu! I think about now he's either on his way or already in Dubai, relaxing poolside. Can I come? : )
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Address Verification
Mary, my address is:
Kate Austin c/o Kutschkarowa
Grillparzerstr. 32
22085 Hamburg
Germany
I am pretty excited about classes. Today I have to actually do some studying!
Emma and I met up yesterday and the goal was to go around the city, finally. Third time's the charm! But when I met her, I hadn't eaten yet and was quite hungry, as was she. So we stopped by a nice bakery and got some lunch. And as we just sat there and watched people go by, she turned to me and said, "We might just have to give this up. Every time we try to get you oriented in town, we get distracted by cake!"
She had a good point. So we grudgingly extricated ourselves from the lovely bakery and started walking around town some more. And we did actually succeed in our mission, as I now have a better feel for where things are. I mean, it will still take some time, as Hamburg is a bit large, but it was a good start.
I spent the whole day with Emma, and when Chris got off work we met up with him and ate a a Mexican restaurant. Now, normally Germans don't do very good Mexican food, and granted, I wouldn't call it authentic, but it was quite tasty! Eric met up with us, and after stopping by his office, we headed for the Groeninger, a very, very large basement bar/restaurant with some German food (b/c there isn't much in Hamburg) and lots of beer, etc. But the coolest thing about it? You get to sit in big barrells! That was quite exciting. Don't get that much at home.
Kate Austin c/o Kutschkarowa
Grillparzerstr. 32
22085 Hamburg
Germany
I am pretty excited about classes. Today I have to actually do some studying!
Emma and I met up yesterday and the goal was to go around the city, finally. Third time's the charm! But when I met her, I hadn't eaten yet and was quite hungry, as was she. So we stopped by a nice bakery and got some lunch. And as we just sat there and watched people go by, she turned to me and said, "We might just have to give this up. Every time we try to get you oriented in town, we get distracted by cake!"
She had a good point. So we grudgingly extricated ourselves from the lovely bakery and started walking around town some more. And we did actually succeed in our mission, as I now have a better feel for where things are. I mean, it will still take some time, as Hamburg is a bit large, but it was a good start.
I spent the whole day with Emma, and when Chris got off work we met up with him and ate a a Mexican restaurant. Now, normally Germans don't do very good Mexican food, and granted, I wouldn't call it authentic, but it was quite tasty! Eric met up with us, and after stopping by his office, we headed for the Groeninger, a very, very large basement bar/restaurant with some German food (b/c there isn't much in Hamburg) and lots of beer, etc. But the coolest thing about it? You get to sit in big barrells! That was quite exciting. Don't get that much at home.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Classes
Ok Meegan, here are a list of my classes:
- Politics of International Migration
- The Middle East: Security, etc. etc.
- The Poor in Politics, Politics for the Poor
- Intercultural Problems II: Integration through Participation - Active Participants and Processes
- Anti-Bias: Being Conscious of Judgements and Actions in the Pedagogical Practice
(sorry for loose translations!)
And I want to see this Politics of Development, but I think I already have enough. I dropped my UN class. I think 3 or 4 classes is actually more than enough, b/c they are all Seminare/Hauptseminare. No Vorlesungen. And they are all MA level.
In addition to those, there is a student organization, ASTA, that puts together cultural classes. Through them I am taking Arabic, Creative Writing, and Belly Dancing. What a combination, right? I will check out a Volkshochschule for Chinese.
I met Andrew, another Fulbrighter, at the Uni for lunch yesterday, and we randomly ran into Hillary, another FBer. She had also studied in Tueb., but in 2006. Crazy, huh?
I have to get ready now, I'm taking Angelina to the Uni to see if we can get her registered for some of the cultural classes as well. Then I'm meeting a man about salsa--he has a studio here. And then Ms. Emma and I are going to once again try to get me oriented in the city.
Just FIVE days until Dad gets here! Yay!
Oh, last thing. Those of you who have been asking about my landline. I finally got it together last night. The box in my room is being funny, so I put my base in Angelina's, but it's cordless. Anyhow, my number is 040-31703938. So if you are calling from the US, I believe you would dial 011-49-40-31703938. If that doesn't work, add the other 0 in. Just let me know when you plan to call so I can be at home.
: )
- Politics of International Migration
- The Middle East: Security, etc. etc.
- The Poor in Politics, Politics for the Poor
- Intercultural Problems II: Integration through Participation - Active Participants and Processes
- Anti-Bias: Being Conscious of Judgements and Actions in the Pedagogical Practice
(sorry for loose translations!)
And I want to see this Politics of Development, but I think I already have enough. I dropped my UN class. I think 3 or 4 classes is actually more than enough, b/c they are all Seminare/Hauptseminare. No Vorlesungen. And they are all MA level.
In addition to those, there is a student organization, ASTA, that puts together cultural classes. Through them I am taking Arabic, Creative Writing, and Belly Dancing. What a combination, right? I will check out a Volkshochschule for Chinese.
I met Andrew, another Fulbrighter, at the Uni for lunch yesterday, and we randomly ran into Hillary, another FBer. She had also studied in Tueb., but in 2006. Crazy, huh?
I have to get ready now, I'm taking Angelina to the Uni to see if we can get her registered for some of the cultural classes as well. Then I'm meeting a man about salsa--he has a studio here. And then Ms. Emma and I are going to once again try to get me oriented in the city.
Just FIVE days until Dad gets here! Yay!
Oh, last thing. Those of you who have been asking about my landline. I finally got it together last night. The box in my room is being funny, so I put my base in Angelina's, but it's cordless. Anyhow, my number is 040-31703938. So if you are calling from the US, I believe you would dial 011-49-40-31703938. If that doesn't work, add the other 0 in. Just let me know when you plan to call so I can be at home.
: )
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Fahrrad Selbstreparateur
I did the coolest thing after class today! There is this bike shop on campus where you can take your bike and fix it yourself and there are people there to help you and it's way cheap. So I went there and this man helped me replace both light bulbs (luckily that was all that was wrong with the lights!), adjust the handle bars, and put on a kick stand. Now, when I say he was there to help, what that translates to is that he actually did most of the work but I stood there, was encouraging, held things, screwed things back together, and learned lots. It was actually the highlight of my day!
When I got home I proceeded to vacuum up big dust bunnies and spiders. After just three days! The dust and dirt here, sheesh! And my bike aparently is home to many a spider, much to my disgust.
I am dropping my only class in English, because I can't take as many as I've chosen or I'll never get anything done!
Tomorrow I don't have any classes (normally I'll have Arabic, but it starts next week). Yay!
: )
When I got home I proceeded to vacuum up big dust bunnies and spiders. After just three days! The dust and dirt here, sheesh! And my bike aparently is home to many a spider, much to my disgust.
I am dropping my only class in English, because I can't take as many as I've chosen or I'll never get anything done!
Tomorrow I don't have any classes (normally I'll have Arabic, but it starts next week). Yay!
: )
Vacuuming up spiders
A popular way to rid the living area of spiders is often to simply vacuum them up. And there are always plenty around when one lives in Germany. I vacuumed them up about three days ago, but it's definitely time to do it again later today.
Monday's salsa didn't work b/c the cafe doesn't exist anymore. Hmmm, could my website be out of date? Tuesday night I did find some salsa nearby, and it was a smaller group, but some could dance fairly well. The university, however, does not appear to have a ballroom group. Everyone does it at schools. That doesn't sound like it's as much fun. I'd rather have a more laid-back environment.
I am meeting people, though. I've met some nice Germans. Weird, huh? It's usually easier to meet foreigners.
It's even warmer now, in the high 40s. That whole freezing thing wasn't amusing. I hope it stays like this for awhile. Semi-dry and above freezing!
I wish I had taken a picture yesterday when I bought a printer and thought I could take it home on my bike. Um, yeah. I figured it wouldn't be so big. The cheaper ones were bigger, though. A very nice saleswoman helped me carry it out, and then attached it to my bike basket with a rope. However, it was definitely bigger than the basket, and didn't really sit in it, and it covered my seat. I decided to walk the bike home, slowly and carefully. Over every little bump it rocked precariously, and I was afraid it was about to be printer overboard. I did, though, make it home ok without anything breaking. Whew! And for those of you who asked me about getting a land line, I did buy a telephone, I've just not hooked it up yet. If you did want that number, just email me and I send it.
Another thing about classes. You don't go out and buy books like you do in the U.S. Usually the Germans find this too expensive, and the teacher puts together a binder of readings and you have to get that. Which means they sent it to a copy shop (of which there are many) in town, and you go there and if you luck out, it's the kind where they copy it for you and all you have to do it pay. One of my teachers did that. Two others did the, copy it yourself method. That's fun, boy howdy. lol.
I think that's about it for news. Oh, right. No, Megan, my eye is not better. Anything a few feet from me blurs, even with the glasses. It makes it hard when I ride the bike, especially at night (and especially with a broken light!). lol. As said before, I guess I will just have to be patient and make do as best I can until the surgeon can look at it again in February. Until then I'll just have to console myself with lovely German food, scenery, landscape, and lots of difficult, academic German reading. Ahhh.
I need to head off to class. I was thinking of take the bus today, but I think I'll try the bike one last time. My knees were so sore yesterday! I'm not used to this much biking. But it's a lovely ride.
Hope you all are doing well!
: )
Monday's salsa didn't work b/c the cafe doesn't exist anymore. Hmmm, could my website be out of date? Tuesday night I did find some salsa nearby, and it was a smaller group, but some could dance fairly well. The university, however, does not appear to have a ballroom group. Everyone does it at schools. That doesn't sound like it's as much fun. I'd rather have a more laid-back environment.
I am meeting people, though. I've met some nice Germans. Weird, huh? It's usually easier to meet foreigners.
It's even warmer now, in the high 40s. That whole freezing thing wasn't amusing. I hope it stays like this for awhile. Semi-dry and above freezing!
I wish I had taken a picture yesterday when I bought a printer and thought I could take it home on my bike. Um, yeah. I figured it wouldn't be so big. The cheaper ones were bigger, though. A very nice saleswoman helped me carry it out, and then attached it to my bike basket with a rope. However, it was definitely bigger than the basket, and didn't really sit in it, and it covered my seat. I decided to walk the bike home, slowly and carefully. Over every little bump it rocked precariously, and I was afraid it was about to be printer overboard. I did, though, make it home ok without anything breaking. Whew! And for those of you who asked me about getting a land line, I did buy a telephone, I've just not hooked it up yet. If you did want that number, just email me and I send it.
Another thing about classes. You don't go out and buy books like you do in the U.S. Usually the Germans find this too expensive, and the teacher puts together a binder of readings and you have to get that. Which means they sent it to a copy shop (of which there are many) in town, and you go there and if you luck out, it's the kind where they copy it for you and all you have to do it pay. One of my teachers did that. Two others did the, copy it yourself method. That's fun, boy howdy. lol.
I think that's about it for news. Oh, right. No, Megan, my eye is not better. Anything a few feet from me blurs, even with the glasses. It makes it hard when I ride the bike, especially at night (and especially with a broken light!). lol. As said before, I guess I will just have to be patient and make do as best I can until the surgeon can look at it again in February. Until then I'll just have to console myself with lovely German food, scenery, landscape, and lots of difficult, academic German reading. Ahhh.
I need to head off to class. I was thinking of take the bus today, but I think I'll try the bike one last time. My knees were so sore yesterday! I'm not used to this much biking. But it's a lovely ride.
Hope you all are doing well!
: )
Monday, October 22, 2007
Classes
Meegan, the movie was REALLY cute! Emma kept saying how she wanted a little rat afterwards. I didn't quite feel that way, but definitely worth seeing.
Sunday Emma and I hung around the harbor (and the hot chocolate was good, but nowhere near Barcelona's!), and we had planned on going around town, but we didn't get to it. I teased Emma about being a bad tour guide b/c we've yet to just get me oriented in town. lol. But we always have such a nice time.
We then went to her place (a nice, large apartment that is NOT in as sad as a neighborhood as she professes), where Chris had prepared quite the proper feast! He cooked a turkey (big!), lots of vegies, stuffing, etc. It was so delicious. Any time he wants to cook again, I'm there! Erik (from New Zealand/Korea) also joined us. Then Erik and I walked aways to the U-Bahn station and took three different lines home. lol.
Today I went to only two classes. I think I'll keep the Politics of Migration class, but not sure about my Language of Education and Educational Success. Good people, but the course may not be exactly what I want. It's ok, I have 10 other classes to check out. Lol. I have class from 10 am to 8 pm tomorrow. Ew. But afterwards Angelina and I are going to try a place where there is supposedly salsa. I tried tonight, but the online posting was wrong. I biked in the freezing (literally) cold to this cafe, only to search around and find it no longer exists, then I drove back. I didn't know my rear and legs could get that cold. Dear goodness. Today I biked a total of just over 13 miles. I'm not used to that. Wow my legs! And my bike light isn't working. I'd take it to the shop tomorrow, but I don't have time with class all day. I don't suppose they're open at 8.
I still need to apply for a visa, but I think that will wait until next week, when I've got the first week of crazy classes behind me. Oh so many things on my To Do list.
And Dad turned the big 50 today. All right! And Megan survived her marathon.
I suppose I should go to bed sometime soon. I get a bit addicted to the internet over here.
: )
Sunday Emma and I hung around the harbor (and the hot chocolate was good, but nowhere near Barcelona's!), and we had planned on going around town, but we didn't get to it. I teased Emma about being a bad tour guide b/c we've yet to just get me oriented in town. lol. But we always have such a nice time.
We then went to her place (a nice, large apartment that is NOT in as sad as a neighborhood as she professes), where Chris had prepared quite the proper feast! He cooked a turkey (big!), lots of vegies, stuffing, etc. It was so delicious. Any time he wants to cook again, I'm there! Erik (from New Zealand/Korea) also joined us. Then Erik and I walked aways to the U-Bahn station and took three different lines home. lol.
Today I went to only two classes. I think I'll keep the Politics of Migration class, but not sure about my Language of Education and Educational Success. Good people, but the course may not be exactly what I want. It's ok, I have 10 other classes to check out. Lol. I have class from 10 am to 8 pm tomorrow. Ew. But afterwards Angelina and I are going to try a place where there is supposedly salsa. I tried tonight, but the online posting was wrong. I biked in the freezing (literally) cold to this cafe, only to search around and find it no longer exists, then I drove back. I didn't know my rear and legs could get that cold. Dear goodness. Today I biked a total of just over 13 miles. I'm not used to that. Wow my legs! And my bike light isn't working. I'd take it to the shop tomorrow, but I don't have time with class all day. I don't suppose they're open at 8.
I still need to apply for a visa, but I think that will wait until next week, when I've got the first week of crazy classes behind me. Oh so many things on my To Do list.
And Dad turned the big 50 today. All right! And Megan survived her marathon.
I suppose I should go to bed sometime soon. I get a bit addicted to the internet over here.
: )
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Ratatouille
Last night we saw Ratatouille at an English theater. Very nice! We ran into some friends of Emma and Chris, so we went out for drinks in the Eppendorf area afterwards. They had a car so I felt spoiled. We went to Neo, a chic little place with the heaviest door in the world! Emma and I together couldn't open it, one of the guys had to! lol. I feel weak. Maybe I should buy some weights or find a gym. : )
After that the nice couple drove me to my bike, which I'd left at the Borgweg U-Bahn station, b/c I don't really live that close to the underground, so I had biked there and then caught the U3. On my way back I realized that the bike light wasn't working. That is 1. dangerous, and 2. illegal. I tried to fix it, but it was on, so I'm not sure what the deal is. I figure I'll ask Angelina about that when she gets back. And the internet. And where the trash goes. I want to take out the trash, but I'm not sure which bin to put it in! It's a bit complicated.
I did find the classes I want to take, but I think I was supposed to have registered for them somehow and now it's too late b/c they start tomorrow. So I'm just going to show up and hope they will forgive the dumb foreigner. Everyone else here has been quite helpful, so maybe the streak will continue. Or I'll get yelled at and told to leave. I'm ready for either option.
Today the plan is, weather permitting, that Emma, Chris and I will bike around town a bit, then Chris will cook a roast at their place. Eric is supposed to join us as well.
It's definitely cold here.
Dad figured out how to call me. And he just realized that he will need another re-entry visa to Afghanistan. Uh-oh. I am not sure how to go about that. We might be making a trip to Berlin to the embassy (4.5 hours away) one day. But I have classes as well, so who knows. I emailed them already, asking what to do, but I don't expect a speedy response.
That's the news for now. I'll let you all know how my first day of classes goes.
Monica sent me some great pics from this weekend at Mom's fundraising event. : )
Again, go Meegan go! It's her big marathon day. Better her than me.
Bis spaeter!
After that the nice couple drove me to my bike, which I'd left at the Borgweg U-Bahn station, b/c I don't really live that close to the underground, so I had biked there and then caught the U3. On my way back I realized that the bike light wasn't working. That is 1. dangerous, and 2. illegal. I tried to fix it, but it was on, so I'm not sure what the deal is. I figure I'll ask Angelina about that when she gets back. And the internet. And where the trash goes. I want to take out the trash, but I'm not sure which bin to put it in! It's a bit complicated.
I did find the classes I want to take, but I think I was supposed to have registered for them somehow and now it's too late b/c they start tomorrow. So I'm just going to show up and hope they will forgive the dumb foreigner. Everyone else here has been quite helpful, so maybe the streak will continue. Or I'll get yelled at and told to leave. I'm ready for either option.
Today the plan is, weather permitting, that Emma, Chris and I will bike around town a bit, then Chris will cook a roast at their place. Eric is supposed to join us as well.
It's definitely cold here.
Dad figured out how to call me. And he just realized that he will need another re-entry visa to Afghanistan. Uh-oh. I am not sure how to go about that. We might be making a trip to Berlin to the embassy (4.5 hours away) one day. But I have classes as well, so who knows. I emailed them already, asking what to do, but I don't expect a speedy response.
That's the news for now. I'll let you all know how my first day of classes goes.
Monica sent me some great pics from this weekend at Mom's fundraising event. : )
Again, go Meegan go! It's her big marathon day. Better her than me.
Bis spaeter!
Saturday, October 20, 2007
First Friday Out
Emma and I spent yesterday going around town, or at least that was our plan. We ended up talking more over cake and tea, but in the end we made it to the city, met Chris after he got off work, and frequented one of the two German restuarants in town. Then Erik (I can't say his Korean name) met us for drinks and we headed down to an Irish Pub. Ahhhh, Irish Pubs. I love those.
Emma and Chris were very kind and figured out how to get me home, since the U-Bahn (underground) makes a big square around the area I live in. I took it around the Alster, then caught a bus. It was funny b/c that is the spot where the bus starts and ends, so I was 15 minutes early for it, and the guy was just sitting in the bus waiting, but he won't let anyone on. And of course it's freezing outside. And I had the biggest bag in the world with me b/c I had bought a yoga mat. It was pretty amusing. But finally I made it home and slept forever.
Tonight Emma, Chris and I are going to see Ratatouile (sp?) at an English speaking theater. And tomorrow we are hoping to do a bit of a bike tour around town so I can get more oriented and then Chris is planning to cook up some big slab of meat. Sounds good to me.
Megan's big marathon is tomorrow, so GOOD LUCK! And Dad's big 50 is on Monday, so an early HAPPY BIRTHDAY to him. Mom, good luck with the fundraiser today, and Monica, thanks for helping out. I want pics of the Oompaloompa costume. Take the camera in the secretary above your side. : )
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Appropriating Internet
My net has not been working since yesterday and I have no idea why. I bought a cable (dang everything is so expensive here!) and connected directly to the modem and nothing. Nada. Any advice, Dad? So I've been "borrowing" some when possible, which has been a few minutes per day. Therefore if I get quiet, you know why. I'll see what my roomie knows when she returns on Sunday.
Today was successful. I left my place at 9 and didn't get back til 4, then I ran two more errands. I got medicine for my bug bite from hell, matriculated, got insurance, a bank account, my semester ticket is on the way, got more necessities I was still lacking, and biked allllll over the city. Yesterday I did just under 10 miles, today I'm sure I did waaaaaaaaay more than that. My rear and legs are sore like nothing else. Am I complaining too much? Actually, once the rain stopped, it was a lovely, albeit chilly, day. Everyone who helped me was so very friendly!
I think, however, one ought to have a license to ride a bike here. I nearly plowed down two pedestrians, and almost took another two bikers head-on. That's scarier than the pedestrians. And why are people walking on the bike path? And why are cars parked there? Hello, BIKE path! The Klingle of Death only works on people! Argh.
I managed to get some lunch about 3 and headed over to a park around the lake, the Alster. I sat on a bench, watched those crazy Germans out sailing and whatnot, and watched people playing with their dogs. Any city with so many dogs and dog lovers must be good, right? Actually, I really like the city so far. I didn't get as lost today, which was nice.
Tonight I'm hoping to sleep. Boy howdy am I exhausted! And fingers crossed that the nice person who is unintentionally letting me use their internet does not wise up to the fact, though I plan to only use it for good. : D
Miss you all!
Today was successful. I left my place at 9 and didn't get back til 4, then I ran two more errands. I got medicine for my bug bite from hell, matriculated, got insurance, a bank account, my semester ticket is on the way, got more necessities I was still lacking, and biked allllll over the city. Yesterday I did just under 10 miles, today I'm sure I did waaaaaaaaay more than that. My rear and legs are sore like nothing else. Am I complaining too much? Actually, once the rain stopped, it was a lovely, albeit chilly, day. Everyone who helped me was so very friendly!
I think, however, one ought to have a license to ride a bike here. I nearly plowed down two pedestrians, and almost took another two bikers head-on. That's scarier than the pedestrians. And why are people walking on the bike path? And why are cars parked there? Hello, BIKE path! The Klingle of Death only works on people! Argh.
I managed to get some lunch about 3 and headed over to a park around the lake, the Alster. I sat on a bench, watched those crazy Germans out sailing and whatnot, and watched people playing with their dogs. Any city with so many dogs and dog lovers must be good, right? Actually, I really like the city so far. I didn't get as lost today, which was nice.
Tonight I'm hoping to sleep. Boy howdy am I exhausted! And fingers crossed that the nice person who is unintentionally letting me use their internet does not wise up to the fact, though I plan to only use it for good. : D
Miss you all!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Sleep
Oh how I'd love to be sleeping right now. I woke up at 12:30 and laid there until a little after 1:30 and said enough with this and got up and made tea. My stomach, as last night, was rumbling like mad.
I tried singing myself lullabyes. That didn't work. Then I started counting sheep. Does that really work for anyone? I got bored so my sheep started doing funny things like flipping over the fence, then one was a smart aleck and decided to walk up to the fence, slowly climb over, and continue on its way. Damn sheep. Always showing off. I need sleep.
I tried singing myself lullabyes. That didn't work. Then I started counting sheep. Does that really work for anyone? I got bored so my sheep started doing funny things like flipping over the fence, then one was a smart aleck and decided to walk up to the fence, slowly climb over, and continue on its way. Damn sheep. Always showing off. I need sleep.
Rain
I ventured out into the city today. I found the Uni without much trouble, and the people in the International Office were very helpful. I have to go back tomorrow morning between 10 and 12 and someone should be there to help me get set up and answer questions. Sounds lovely!
After that I tried my hand at exploring the city. Then the rain started. I thought it might stop soon, so I just biked around and checked things out. Then I got a bit lost. Then it started to pour. And then I got really, really wet. And more lost. The map I got got all soaked. Hm. I finally asked a few people for directions and clumsily made my way home, drenched, cold, and then, oh yes, got slightly lost one last time. As I was trying to decipher the map that was so wet it was now falling apart, my bike (darn thing doesn't have a kick stand! argh) and backpack fell over. Into mud. Of course. Hm.
I stopped in a nearby cafe and I must have looked pathetic. Some nice women gave me directions on how to get home. When I stepped inside and peeled off the wet clothes, I looked in the mirror and saw I even had mud on my face. No idea how that got there! What a sight I was. And things don't dry well here. My shirts have been hanging up for hours and are still incredibly damp. We don't have a dryer, just a washer, so I wonder how well my clothes will dry. Hamburg is one of thought damp cities where the wetness sort of seeps into your bones.
I was successful in getting a bright lamp today, though. It was a bit more than I wanted to spend, but I needed to be able to see in my own room! And now I'm unpacked and have cleaned a bit and even went back out later to search for a Doener. It just isn't Germany without eating a Doener. I found an ok place, but I think I'll keep my eyes open for a better one. I hope tomorrow is dry.
Friday Emma and I are going to hang out. I think I'll ask her to show me a bit more around town. So far it's a lovely city, even in the pouring rain. : )
Oh, and my blogsite is in German over here and I don't know how to make it in English. Lol.
After that I tried my hand at exploring the city. Then the rain started. I thought it might stop soon, so I just biked around and checked things out. Then I got a bit lost. Then it started to pour. And then I got really, really wet. And more lost. The map I got got all soaked. Hm. I finally asked a few people for directions and clumsily made my way home, drenched, cold, and then, oh yes, got slightly lost one last time. As I was trying to decipher the map that was so wet it was now falling apart, my bike (darn thing doesn't have a kick stand! argh) and backpack fell over. Into mud. Of course. Hm.
I stopped in a nearby cafe and I must have looked pathetic. Some nice women gave me directions on how to get home. When I stepped inside and peeled off the wet clothes, I looked in the mirror and saw I even had mud on my face. No idea how that got there! What a sight I was. And things don't dry well here. My shirts have been hanging up for hours and are still incredibly damp. We don't have a dryer, just a washer, so I wonder how well my clothes will dry. Hamburg is one of thought damp cities where the wetness sort of seeps into your bones.
I was successful in getting a bright lamp today, though. It was a bit more than I wanted to spend, but I needed to be able to see in my own room! And now I'm unpacked and have cleaned a bit and even went back out later to search for a Doener. It just isn't Germany without eating a Doener. I found an ok place, but I think I'll keep my eyes open for a better one. I hope tomorrow is dry.
Friday Emma and I are going to hang out. I think I'll ask her to show me a bit more around town. So far it's a lovely city, even in the pouring rain. : )
Oh, and my blogsite is in German over here and I don't know how to make it in English. Lol.
Day Two
Boy howdy I'm tired. I slept from 9:30 to 1 am, when I awoke and felt fully awake and like my stomach was exploding. After awhile I got back to sleep and slept til 9:45 this morning. I'm still way tired and I still feel like I angered the Stomach God greatly, but other than that all is well.
Yesterday was unusually sunny here, and today it is back to regular cloudiness. My roommate is off to Rome on holiday, and I'm trying to get myself ready to head down to the university (if I can find it) and explore. Try to start the lovely bureaucratic hoop jumping. My nice roomie, Angelina, who is 34 and originally from the Ukraine (so only half German), left her bike for me to take. I should be able to follow the road around the lake (I like across the lake from the center of town and of course, there is no bridge). It is supposed to be a lovely trek.
After I take the German bureaucracy head on, the plan is to find a lamp, learn a bit of the town, and then come home and clean and unpack. And not fall asleep.
I'll try not to make anyone angry today. Emma said the Hamburgers (hee hee) love to yell at people. So perhaps I should prepare myself for more yelling at until I get the hang of things. Hmmm.
It's already 10:30 so I should get ready to go. Hope you all are well. I miss everyone and home like crazy. I'm hoping that will go away soon. ; )
Yesterday was unusually sunny here, and today it is back to regular cloudiness. My roommate is off to Rome on holiday, and I'm trying to get myself ready to head down to the university (if I can find it) and explore. Try to start the lovely bureaucratic hoop jumping. My nice roomie, Angelina, who is 34 and originally from the Ukraine (so only half German), left her bike for me to take. I should be able to follow the road around the lake (I like across the lake from the center of town and of course, there is no bridge). It is supposed to be a lovely trek.
After I take the German bureaucracy head on, the plan is to find a lamp, learn a bit of the town, and then come home and clean and unpack. And not fall asleep.
I'll try not to make anyone angry today. Emma said the Hamburgers (hee hee) love to yell at people. So perhaps I should prepare myself for more yelling at until I get the hang of things. Hmmm.
It's already 10:30 so I should get ready to go. Hope you all are well. I miss everyone and home like crazy. I'm hoping that will go away soon. ; )
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
First Day
Ok, so my first day is coming to a close. I had some excitement in the Munich airport. I only had a 45-minute lay-over scheduled, and they had said I wouldn't have to go through customs and security, but alas, I DID! So I did the unthinkable and asked to cut in the way too long of a line at customs and the nice people there let me. Whew. Then I ran through security, and hauled down long hallways. When they redid the Munich airport they made it huge!!!!!!! I just made the flight. Which is good b/c I was way tired and feeling a bit sick by that point.
When I got to Hamburg, the taxi driver yelled at me. Sheesh. I had only been here a few minutes and already I was the dumb foreigner. And even better was being yelled at by a foreigner whose German is worse than mine! Hmpf. Just because I didn't see the nonexistent queue for the taxis. Hello, like Germans queue! Argh.
I got into my apartment and my boxes arrived and I've yet to unpack. But I did find food. A few cleaning supplies.
Emma came over after work and we had tea and cookies (some Hanuta to be exact, oh yummy!) and caught up. I've not seen her in years. She is going to give me a few lamps. Lol. My apartment is cute, but too dark. There really isn't a living room b/c it's my roomie's room, and the kitchen is small with no table, but there is a washing machine so who can really complain? The bathroom is pretty cool. And my room looks out onto the street. She even gave me towels and blankets. The roomie seems pretty cool. Sadly she is off to Rome tomorrow for a few days. Well, not sad for her. : )
Tomorrow I'll try to unpack and venture in to the city. I've yet to get a map of my own and have that total lack of orientation which is always weird. But I'll borrow her bike and find my way around the lake and into town. Apparently I live in the poshest area of town. How cool is that? It IS really beautiful.
Monica, I tried to make carrots the way you do, but I couldn't find brown sugar here, the closest thing I found was brown sugar cubes and they are like rocks. lol.
Ok, I need to shower and try to sleep. I miss everyone already soooooooo much. But like I told all of you, I will now tell myself that I will be home before I know it. And will have a great time and hopefully learn lots.
Hope you all are well!
: )
When I got to Hamburg, the taxi driver yelled at me. Sheesh. I had only been here a few minutes and already I was the dumb foreigner. And even better was being yelled at by a foreigner whose German is worse than mine! Hmpf. Just because I didn't see the nonexistent queue for the taxis. Hello, like Germans queue! Argh.
I got into my apartment and my boxes arrived and I've yet to unpack. But I did find food. A few cleaning supplies.
Emma came over after work and we had tea and cookies (some Hanuta to be exact, oh yummy!) and caught up. I've not seen her in years. She is going to give me a few lamps. Lol. My apartment is cute, but too dark. There really isn't a living room b/c it's my roomie's room, and the kitchen is small with no table, but there is a washing machine so who can really complain? The bathroom is pretty cool. And my room looks out onto the street. She even gave me towels and blankets. The roomie seems pretty cool. Sadly she is off to Rome tomorrow for a few days. Well, not sad for her. : )
Tomorrow I'll try to unpack and venture in to the city. I've yet to get a map of my own and have that total lack of orientation which is always weird. But I'll borrow her bike and find my way around the lake and into town. Apparently I live in the poshest area of town. How cool is that? It IS really beautiful.
Monica, I tried to make carrots the way you do, but I couldn't find brown sugar here, the closest thing I found was brown sugar cubes and they are like rocks. lol.
Ok, I need to shower and try to sleep. I miss everyone already soooooooo much. But like I told all of you, I will now tell myself that I will be home before I know it. And will have a great time and hopefully learn lots.
Hope you all are well!
: )
Here
I'm here. I will post more about the travel, but I think I need to get my tired butt up and go get food before everything closes here, b/c as we all know, things close pretty darn early. I hope I don't get lost...that could be awkward.
: )
: )
Monday, October 15, 2007
Leaving on a Jet Plane...
Time to travel! Wish me luck. I'll let you all know when I'm safely there and getting myself settled.
: )
: )
Friday, October 12, 2007
Revenge of the Armadillo
I know I keep blogging about the newly discovered joys of homeownership, but after the algae and mice I thought I was done for surprises, at least for a little while. Until I took out the trash last night and noticed that there were parts of the yard torn up. Roger came by today and informed me it was an armadillo situation. How often can you say that? "Well, by looking at the ground, I can tell you it's definitely an armadillo situation you're dealing with." I mean, really. Plus, I thought they were a bit farther south.
Anyone know how to get rid of armadillos?
And why are they tearing up my yard? Is it sport? Are they bored?
I got my glasses yesterday, and while the prescription is not perfect, it helps with the computer and reading. Yay! The doc says the eye is looking better, and we'll just have to wait. I suppose that is a good thing. Now if only my vision were improving!
Three days. Wow. I need to get a move on!
And Aunt Toni, your cat did indeed eat both of my shoelaces in the two minutes I left them downstairs. Grrrr. They were my yellow ones! lol. Onery kittens.
We have a new roomie, Jason, who I think will be a nice addition to the house while Dad and I are gone.
Salsa at the Madrid tonight! I'm excited, b/c the last two times I had eye surgery and couldn't go.
And I'll see Dad in just a few weeks. In GERMANY!!!!!!
Anyone know how to get rid of armadillos?
And why are they tearing up my yard? Is it sport? Are they bored?
I got my glasses yesterday, and while the prescription is not perfect, it helps with the computer and reading. Yay! The doc says the eye is looking better, and we'll just have to wait. I suppose that is a good thing. Now if only my vision were improving!
Three days. Wow. I need to get a move on!
And Aunt Toni, your cat did indeed eat both of my shoelaces in the two minutes I left them downstairs. Grrrr. They were my yellow ones! lol. Onery kittens.
We have a new roomie, Jason, who I think will be a nice addition to the house while Dad and I are gone.
Salsa at the Madrid tonight! I'm excited, b/c the last two times I had eye surgery and couldn't go.
And I'll see Dad in just a few weeks. In GERMANY!!!!!!
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
6 Days
SIX DAYS!!!!! hee hee.
I mailed my packages today. Yikes! Talk about a hole in the old pocket book.
Dad, I also sent your package.
I went to the doc yesterday and he said my eye looks much better. I'm glad he thinks so, b/c I've been seeing some double vision since he stopped me on the drops and I'm not finding it that enjoyable. He said give it time. Oh, how I'm hearing that constantly! lol.
I forgot how long it takes to get ready to move to another country.
Meegan sweetie, cheer up! You're still my favorite jailbird. And don't worry, Stanford might find it a plus. You know, it makes them look more fair and open-minded when they admit criminals. ;) You know I'm joking, right? You have nothing to worry about!!!!
: )
I mailed my packages today. Yikes! Talk about a hole in the old pocket book.
Dad, I also sent your package.
I went to the doc yesterday and he said my eye looks much better. I'm glad he thinks so, b/c I've been seeing some double vision since he stopped me on the drops and I'm not finding it that enjoyable. He said give it time. Oh, how I'm hearing that constantly! lol.
I forgot how long it takes to get ready to move to another country.
Meegan sweetie, cheer up! You're still my favorite jailbird. And don't worry, Stanford might find it a plus. You know, it makes them look more fair and open-minded when they admit criminals. ;) You know I'm joking, right? You have nothing to worry about!!!!
: )
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Girls' Night
Yesterday Ashley had a girls' night where we all brought clothes, shoes, etc. we no longer wore and traded them out for other peoples. We had such a huge pile of clothes, and it was so much fun trading stuff out. We had pizza and sang karaoke. I barely slept. Oh dear. : ) I can't remember the last time I had a fun slumber party like that!
Today I'm babysitting my favorite Germans while their parents attend the Chiefs game. And then it's off to ballroom dance, eine meiner lieblings Sonntagsaktivitaeten. Und nur ein paar Tage bis Deutschland, fast unglaublich! Naja.
8 days. I should really get a move on with my preparations. Monica has given me her disapproving look. Uh-oh.
Today I'm babysitting my favorite Germans while their parents attend the Chiefs game. And then it's off to ballroom dance, eine meiner lieblings Sonntagsaktivitaeten. Und nur ein paar Tage bis Deutschland, fast unglaublich! Naja.
8 days. I should really get a move on with my preparations. Monica has given me her disapproving look. Uh-oh.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Defective
The dang mouse traps must have been made in China. Only two out of the eight I bought will set. I even got my fingers caught in there twice. Ouch. I finally gave up. I can't believe they didn't work! I hope I don't have more than two mice.... : )
10 days
10 days
Thursday, October 04, 2007
I will go get those mice, believe me! And my address is just a tad different than what I wrote before.
It's: Kate Austin c/o Kutschkarowa.
And my surgeon said glasses won't help. So we will see when they get in if they will or not. I actually believe him on this one. Though I am concerned that two highly trained surgeons have such differing opinions on the state of my eye. Why oh why?
My date of departure is October 15th. Soooooo...
11 DAYS ! ! !
It's: Kate Austin c/o Kutschkarowa.
And my surgeon said glasses won't help. So we will see when they get in if they will or not. I actually believe him on this one. Though I am concerned that two highly trained surgeons have such differing opinions on the state of my eye. Why oh why?
My date of departure is October 15th. Soooooo...
11 DAYS ! ! !
Buck Up, Little Kate
Those are the words I think Megan would say to me right now. If she weren't in jail. hee hee. And Mary, I had not heard that one about Ben. I can't believe 911 didn't answer! What did you do?
This morning is off to a fabulous start. I spent about 1.5 hours at the doc's this morning. I think I'm going for a record this week. I also think I am baffling them. I really am that reject case where they go, what the f@#$ happened here? And how do we fix it? I think my surgeon was frustrated. Well, join the club, buddy! He gave me a totally different diagnosis from what the other surgeon said Tuesday. Hmmm. Anyone else feel a bit uneasy? Bottom line? Nothing but hard lenses would help my vision at the moment, and he just wants to wait and see. Did you catch that? Wait and see. Beautiful. Well, the waiting I can do. The seeing part, however.....lol. Gotta keep a sense of humor, right? So Monday I'll be back at the surgeon's.
To make the morning even more fun, I came downstairs to find we have an even bigger mouse problem than before. I swear, if it's not one thing...first the algae battles of the summer and now the ensuing rodent revenge. Not only did they survive (maybe they are smart?) the Pellets of Death, they ate more of the food, got into bags, and the real kicker? Can you guess what else they ate? I bet you can't. Let me tell you. The cabinets! That's right, they ate the cabinets. Now, how does that happen, you might ask? I did. I thought perhaps we have very large termites. But sadly I think we have really dumb mice that went looking for nutrients in wood, didn't find it, so ate some more. I don't know how to fix it. I'm sorry Dad, I'm trying to take care of the house. I really didn't see this one coming. And not just because of my poor vision! hee hee. But I'm bringing out the scary traps today. That's right, no more Ms. Nice Kate. No siree Bob. The mice are going down. (ok, so I did kill some a few months ago, but Monica said she'd heard the mice problem this year was particularly bad. Everyone keeps saying we are in for a bad winter and the animals know it, but the funny thing is that it is still so warm here! No worries, I'll be in cold, frozen tundra of hell that Megan and I so love in just 1.5 weeks.)
I hope you all are as amused by my morning as I have been. Ahh, I tell you, the fun never stops here. : )
This morning is off to a fabulous start. I spent about 1.5 hours at the doc's this morning. I think I'm going for a record this week. I also think I am baffling them. I really am that reject case where they go, what the f@#$ happened here? And how do we fix it? I think my surgeon was frustrated. Well, join the club, buddy! He gave me a totally different diagnosis from what the other surgeon said Tuesday. Hmmm. Anyone else feel a bit uneasy? Bottom line? Nothing but hard lenses would help my vision at the moment, and he just wants to wait and see. Did you catch that? Wait and see. Beautiful. Well, the waiting I can do. The seeing part, however.....lol. Gotta keep a sense of humor, right? So Monday I'll be back at the surgeon's.
To make the morning even more fun, I came downstairs to find we have an even bigger mouse problem than before. I swear, if it's not one thing...first the algae battles of the summer and now the ensuing rodent revenge. Not only did they survive (maybe they are smart?) the Pellets of Death, they ate more of the food, got into bags, and the real kicker? Can you guess what else they ate? I bet you can't. Let me tell you. The cabinets! That's right, they ate the cabinets. Now, how does that happen, you might ask? I did. I thought perhaps we have very large termites. But sadly I think we have really dumb mice that went looking for nutrients in wood, didn't find it, so ate some more. I don't know how to fix it. I'm sorry Dad, I'm trying to take care of the house. I really didn't see this one coming. And not just because of my poor vision! hee hee. But I'm bringing out the scary traps today. That's right, no more Ms. Nice Kate. No siree Bob. The mice are going down. (ok, so I did kill some a few months ago, but Monica said she'd heard the mice problem this year was particularly bad. Everyone keeps saying we are in for a bad winter and the animals know it, but the funny thing is that it is still so warm here! No worries, I'll be in cold, frozen tundra of hell that Megan and I so love in just 1.5 weeks.)
I hope you all are as amused by my morning as I have been. Ahh, I tell you, the fun never stops here. : )
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
My Favorite Jailbird
On the way home from tutoring my delightful Germans, I check my phone to hear that Megan has just been released from jail and that I ought to give her a call. When I finally get ahold of her, she relays me the story.
This summer she and Travis were out running on a lovely beach where there is an area that is roped off because it's a protective area for an indangered bird. However, many people were walking, driving, etc. there. So they ventured in for approximately 8 minutes. At which point they got stopped by a policeman and ticketed $500 in fines per person.
She had her court hearing for it this morning, and while Travis got off with a $100 fine, Megan got the same, as well as a Book and Release. That means she was in jail for a few hours. She filled out forms as "The Arrested" and wrote in creative answers like, "All there" for spaces with things like "Teeth" next to them. They took away her ponytail holder and bobby pins and made her sit in a cell where the water fountain pipe came out of the toilet. Needless to say, she quickly lost her thirst.
Finally they released the poor jailbird I like to call my best friend, and let her exhausted self go home. I doubt she'll ever forget today. German Day of Unity AND Day of Megan's First Arrest. Ahhh, it's one for the grandkids! I wonder if she got a picture...oh wait, yes! I know, she could always show her smiling mugshot. I wonder if those come in wallet sizes?
This summer she and Travis were out running on a lovely beach where there is an area that is roped off because it's a protective area for an indangered bird. However, many people were walking, driving, etc. there. So they ventured in for approximately 8 minutes. At which point they got stopped by a policeman and ticketed $500 in fines per person.
She had her court hearing for it this morning, and while Travis got off with a $100 fine, Megan got the same, as well as a Book and Release. That means she was in jail for a few hours. She filled out forms as "The Arrested" and wrote in creative answers like, "All there" for spaces with things like "Teeth" next to them. They took away her ponytail holder and bobby pins and made her sit in a cell where the water fountain pipe came out of the toilet. Needless to say, she quickly lost her thirst.
Finally they released the poor jailbird I like to call my best friend, and let her exhausted self go home. I doubt she'll ever forget today. German Day of Unity AND Day of Megan's First Arrest. Ahhh, it's one for the grandkids! I wonder if she got a picture...oh wait, yes! I know, she could always show her smiling mugshot. I wonder if those come in wallet sizes?
New Address
Mary, yes, I believe this will be my new address. (until I get there, I will put my roomie's last name on there as well)
Kate Austin bei Kutschkarowa
Grillparzerstr. 32
22085 Hamburg
Germany
I think that is it, but I will double check with my roommate and let you know.
Eye is still very fuzzy today. Hmmmmm.
I did have a wonderful birthday, so thanks to everyone who contacted me yesterday! I really appreciate it.
: )
Kate Austin bei Kutschkarowa
Grillparzerstr. 32
22085 Hamburg
Germany
I think that is it, but I will double check with my roommate and let you know.
Eye is still very fuzzy today. Hmmmmm.
I did have a wonderful birthday, so thanks to everyone who contacted me yesterday! I really appreciate it.
: )
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Happy Birthday to Me! ! !
I went to the other surgeon today and he said there are a few areas of concern, but surgery is not a good option at this point and time. He said to use more steriods (that sounds funny, doesn't it?) and just to wait. They will know more in six months when I come back home for a visit.
My regular doctor (where I got the surgery done) said he spoke with the surgeon and they also said to wait, but not to cancel Germany. Thank goodness! I was getting really concerned. He also said they would write me a prescription for glasses and get me in them soon so that I can see better until my eye heals. And they will pay for it. Very nice. I have to admit, I strongly dislike the idea of glasses again, but at this point, I will gladly take them if it means I can see well again.
On top of that it is my 26th birthday!!!!! Mom and I did lunch, which was quite nice. It's a more low-key birthday, and that is fine by me.
I think it's about time to start the Germany count down....
My regular doctor (where I got the surgery done) said he spoke with the surgeon and they also said to wait, but not to cancel Germany. Thank goodness! I was getting really concerned. He also said they would write me a prescription for glasses and get me in them soon so that I can see better until my eye heals. And they will pay for it. Very nice. I have to admit, I strongly dislike the idea of glasses again, but at this point, I will gladly take them if it means I can see well again.
On top of that it is my 26th birthday!!!!! Mom and I did lunch, which was quite nice. It's a more low-key birthday, and that is fine by me.
I think it's about time to start the Germany count down....
Monday, October 01, 2007
Eye Issues
Well constant readers (as Dad calls everyone who visits his own blog), I saw my eye doctor again today and did not get the news I was looking for. It seems I have an astigmatism and scar tissue in my left eye. He's not sure if the scar tissue (from the last procedure, which , oddly enough, only about 3% of the population end up with...hm....I've heard that one before!) is causing the astigmatism or not. So the blurry vision and big fat halos I'm seeing are no figment of my imagination. The real kicker? He's not sure how to fix it. Or if it can be done in two weeks, at which point I am scheduled to move to Europe. He is going to speak to the surgeon and get back to me. I, however, have decided to get a second opinion.
Tomorrow I am meeting Mom for a nice birthday lunch, and I think Vonda, Shirin and I are going out for dinner or drinks.
Also, I think I may be getting a new roomie soon. This house has gotten so popular!
I hope everyone is doing well.
Tomorrow I am meeting Mom for a nice birthday lunch, and I think Vonda, Shirin and I are going out for dinner or drinks.
Also, I think I may be getting a new roomie soon. This house has gotten so popular!
I hope everyone is doing well.
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