By Sunday, December 19, I couldn't wait to get out of Salzburg. I was meeting with Christine, Ingo, and the kids, and I just couldn't wait. I took the train to a small town in Bavaria near the border, where I was to meet them. Being American, I had about 8 Euros in change in my pocket-not much cash. Luckily I was able to pay for my train ticket and get to an ATM upon arrival. But anyway...
The family went sledding in the mountains. I love sledding, but I was frightened by the mountains and decided to wait for them down on the ground, where it was safe-haha. After they finally got back, we walked into town to look at the Christmas Market. Christmas music playing, Glühwein and craft stands abound, it is always a treat to visit one of these traditional markets. We also went out for coffee and I got my usual latte machiatto. I don't want to know how much money I spend on those things. A fancy coffee machine would probably be a good investment for me. I saw the cutest Espresso machine at Tchibo that was calling my name the other day-sogar in PINK! ;) But at 100 Euro... It was either cut my hair or buy that, and I need a hair cut.
Back to Dec. 19...after that I drove back to their house with them and slept there. It was a nice evening, wine and one of the dumbest movies I have ever seen. Just think of a geeky German man wearing outdated clothes and saying things like, "Tschüssi," and you will get the idea... The film was definitely good for a laugh.
The next morning I headed from Augsburg to Goslar, which is supposedly a 5 hour train ride. But try telling that to the Deutsche Bahn (German train company). Due to the weather and numerous delays, I ended up getting to my destination about 4 hours later than expected. But the journey along the way was priceless. First, when I went to switch trains in Göttingen, I saw a notice that my train wasn't going to be stopping in Hildesheim (my stop-of course). So I had to get out at the stop before. As we were delayed by a few minutes, the next train that was sup. to wait for us didn't. So I ended up at the Hannover Messe (where they hold conventions) train station for 2 hours. Our train kept getting delayed, so I was out there in the freezing cold, commiserating with other people that were just as pissed off as I was. It was especially enjoyable when an announcement came on every few minutes saying, "Attention, a high speed train is coming. Please watch out." And a train would whoosh by, blowing wind (and lots of snow) in our faces. When our train did come, it quickly took us to Hildesheim, where I was sup. to change trains again. I was starving by the time I got there, and I decided that, although I only had 6 minutes before my next train was scheduled to leave, I would run downstairs and grab a roll or something. I did, and I quickly ran back up the stairs to try and catch my train. I got there in time to watch the train pull away. Perfect. Well, at least the next train was scheduled to leave in an hour, right? And of course that one was delayed by about an hour, too. Perfect. When I went to get on the train I heard a familiar voice say, "Can I help you, miss?" Then I realized it was my host dad. He had been working nearby and was taking the train back to Goslar too. So he and I passed the time talking in what was a very dark train ride (the lights were out for most of the ride). Finally we were able to get to Goslar and get the bus to Hahnenklee, where their house is.
And that is where I will end for this evening :)
Love, Molly
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Christmas Spirit
Celebrating Christmas with another family has been a good experience. It has allowed me to appreciate my own traditions, and to experience different ones. I have also developed my own perspective on the Christmas season.
No one has to give you gifts. It doesn't matter if things are "even." And the gifts aren't what matter. Appreciate a gift when it is given to you, but don't expect it. No one "owes" you anything. Be thankful for what you have, and for the people in your life. Enjoy the spirit of the season, and spread the holiday cheer!
That said, I am so grateful for the people in my life. I miss my family and friends back in the states very much. However, I am also ever so thankful to the people that I have here in Germany. I had no idea that, 5 years after my first visit to Germany, I would have friends all over the country, and, the world.
So, this year, I am thankful for family and friends, rather than things. Money isn't much without people to share it with. I have everything I could ever need and want.
<3 Molly
No one has to give you gifts. It doesn't matter if things are "even." And the gifts aren't what matter. Appreciate a gift when it is given to you, but don't expect it. No one "owes" you anything. Be thankful for what you have, and for the people in your life. Enjoy the spirit of the season, and spread the holiday cheer!
That said, I am so grateful for the people in my life. I miss my family and friends back in the states very much. However, I am also ever so thankful to the people that I have here in Germany. I had no idea that, 5 years after my first visit to Germany, I would have friends all over the country, and, the world.
So, this year, I am thankful for family and friends, rather than things. Money isn't much without people to share it with. I have everything I could ever need and want.
<3 Molly
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
English as the Lingua Franca: Why it’s hard for Americans to learn other languages.
Lingua Franca: "any language that is widely used as a means of communication among speakers of other languages." (dictionary.com)
German for foreigners class: we are broken up into small groups to discuss the apparent decline in the Austrian educational system. The Italian girl in my group, searching for a word, gives up quickly and says it in English, “base.” Although I am the only native English speaker in the group, we nod and move on. It is clear that everyone understands. I mean everyone speaks English, right?
The other day I went to a Christmas party with a friend at the Salzburg FH, a trade school about 30 minutes outside the city. As the announcer (a student) gets onstage and grabs the mike, he says “Welcome to the FH Salzburg Christmas party!.” In English, yes. And then he proceeds to continue in German.
In the hall, waiting to go to a lecture, two girls who sounds as if they are from Eastern Europe, speak English with each other as they wait for the doors to open. Neither of them are native speakers. Perhaps they both speak German, but they choose to speak English with each other.
At a restaurant with some friends, we speak English to each other while waiting for the waiter to get to us, “Do you speak English?” he asks and smiles.
In the cafeteria, as the American students speak English amongst themselves, an older man turns to us and says, in English, “Could you please speak more quietly.”
On the bus, after hanging up with my mom, I proceed to stand up, as my stop is coming up. “Your bottle,” an older Austrian woman says. In…guess? English.
English: nearly everyone speaks it. For an American living or traveling in a country where they don’t speak the language this is a godsend. We are spoiled: we can get along nearly anyone without even having to learn a foreign language. For those of living or traveling in a country where we are trying to learn or practice speaking the local language, this can be a nightmare for Americans. More often than not, the locals want to practice English with the native speaker. Either that, or they hear the American struggling with the local language and try to help them out by speaking English. After all, that’s easier, right?
Those from other countries have, in my eyes, an advantage. The locals most likely can’t speak their local language (or at least not as many speak it as they do English), and they have to try to talk in the local tongue. Although, as I said, English has become the lingua franca, and perhaps they do end up speaking English with the local shopkeepers.
English is essentially destroying language learning. Quite depressing.
German for foreigners class: we are broken up into small groups to discuss the apparent decline in the Austrian educational system. The Italian girl in my group, searching for a word, gives up quickly and says it in English, “base.” Although I am the only native English speaker in the group, we nod and move on. It is clear that everyone understands. I mean everyone speaks English, right?
The other day I went to a Christmas party with a friend at the Salzburg FH, a trade school about 30 minutes outside the city. As the announcer (a student) gets onstage and grabs the mike, he says “Welcome to the FH Salzburg Christmas party!.” In English, yes. And then he proceeds to continue in German.
In the hall, waiting to go to a lecture, two girls who sounds as if they are from Eastern Europe, speak English with each other as they wait for the doors to open. Neither of them are native speakers. Perhaps they both speak German, but they choose to speak English with each other.
At a restaurant with some friends, we speak English to each other while waiting for the waiter to get to us, “Do you speak English?” he asks and smiles.
In the cafeteria, as the American students speak English amongst themselves, an older man turns to us and says, in English, “Could you please speak more quietly.”
On the bus, after hanging up with my mom, I proceed to stand up, as my stop is coming up. “Your bottle,” an older Austrian woman says. In…guess? English.
English: nearly everyone speaks it. For an American living or traveling in a country where they don’t speak the language this is a godsend. We are spoiled: we can get along nearly anyone without even having to learn a foreign language. For those of living or traveling in a country where we are trying to learn or practice speaking the local language, this can be a nightmare for Americans. More often than not, the locals want to practice English with the native speaker. Either that, or they hear the American struggling with the local language and try to help them out by speaking English. After all, that’s easier, right?
Those from other countries have, in my eyes, an advantage. The locals most likely can’t speak their local language (or at least not as many speak it as they do English), and they have to try to talk in the local tongue. Although, as I said, English has become the lingua franca, and perhaps they do end up speaking English with the local shopkeepers.
English is essentially destroying language learning. Quite depressing.
My 23rd Birthday: December 11th, 2010
I woke up a little before 11am to go and have breakfast with some friends from the program: Megan and Carlo, who live in my building, and Brittany and Chuck, who live in House Humboldt. We went to the Afro café and I had hot chocolate and waffles. Was delicious.
Then I relaxed and called my family before heading to the train station to pick up Susanne and her family. Together we went to the Christmas market, where we drank Glühwein and did a bit of shopping. After that we went up to the fortress. It is at the top of a mountain and has a beautiful view of the city. It was freezing, so we didn’t stay long. We headed to my street so that we could eat dinner at the Italian restaurant I had chosen. I’d been there a couple times and even gotten take-out there, but it had been a while. I knew that they served good carbonara, so I knew that was where I had to go for my birthday dinner.
When we got to the table I got to open my presents. They gave me American food that had been imported to Germany and was sold at a local grocery store. They said they didn’t want to feel homesick on my special day, which was very sweet of them. I also got an H & M gift card, one of my favorite stores. ☺ I was so glad they came. I almost felt like I was celebrating my birthday with family at home. They are very special to me and I appreciate them coming all the way to Salzburg just to spend a few hours with me.
In the evening my German friend Kerstin came over. She and I, along with Megan and Brittany, went bar hopping, which ended up being pretty fun. I’ve definitely discovered that the only beer I actually like is corona.
All In all, it was a really nice day. But I’m excited to celebrate with my family and friends back in the states next year!!
Then I relaxed and called my family before heading to the train station to pick up Susanne and her family. Together we went to the Christmas market, where we drank Glühwein and did a bit of shopping. After that we went up to the fortress. It is at the top of a mountain and has a beautiful view of the city. It was freezing, so we didn’t stay long. We headed to my street so that we could eat dinner at the Italian restaurant I had chosen. I’d been there a couple times and even gotten take-out there, but it had been a while. I knew that they served good carbonara, so I knew that was where I had to go for my birthday dinner.
When we got to the table I got to open my presents. They gave me American food that had been imported to Germany and was sold at a local grocery store. They said they didn’t want to feel homesick on my special day, which was very sweet of them. I also got an H & M gift card, one of my favorite stores. ☺ I was so glad they came. I almost felt like I was celebrating my birthday with family at home. They are very special to me and I appreciate them coming all the way to Salzburg just to spend a few hours with me.
In the evening my German friend Kerstin came over. She and I, along with Megan and Brittany, went bar hopping, which ended up being pretty fun. I’ve definitely discovered that the only beer I actually like is corona.
All In all, it was a really nice day. But I’m excited to celebrate with my family and friends back in the states next year!!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Annoyed
I am frustrated right now. I'm speaking too much English here. If it were up to me I would be speaking German the entire time I was here. Isn't that what we're here for, to improve our German?
-ahh!
-ahh!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Christmas
Christmas is, all too often, centered around gifts. Some people go into debt to try and get the people they love the gifts that they feel they need to give them. What about the true spirit of Christmas, and of all holidays?
Ask me what exactly I got for Christmas 2 years ago, and I couldn't tell you. But ask me about the people in my life, and I remember everything.
More than the gifts at Christmas, I remember the things people do for me all year long. I appreciate my mom bringing me a special lunch on my birthday to school every year as a kid, my dad watching Rodney Dangerfield with me, my grandparents spending time with me. My best friend for listening to me complain about boys or stress or anything I feel like.
A few years ago, a few close friends from college and I decided not to get each other gifts at all. None of us had the money and we decided, rather, to spend time with each other on our special days instead. I treasure the memories of birthdays spent in Canada, at the movies, at the bar, or at home.
This time of year makes me so thankful for the people in my life. They mean more to mean than anything in the world.
I love you all!
Ask me what exactly I got for Christmas 2 years ago, and I couldn't tell you. But ask me about the people in my life, and I remember everything.
More than the gifts at Christmas, I remember the things people do for me all year long. I appreciate my mom bringing me a special lunch on my birthday to school every year as a kid, my dad watching Rodney Dangerfield with me, my grandparents spending time with me. My best friend for listening to me complain about boys or stress or anything I feel like.
A few years ago, a few close friends from college and I decided not to get each other gifts at all. None of us had the money and we decided, rather, to spend time with each other on our special days instead. I treasure the memories of birthdays spent in Canada, at the movies, at the bar, or at home.
This time of year makes me so thankful for the people in my life. They mean more to mean than anything in the world.
I love you all!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Jerk
The other day, on the bus on the way to Europark, a mall in Salzburg, I was sitting next to a man who appeared to be in his late 60s. When an older woman, about 80 years old, got on the bus, the man asked another man (who looked like he was in his mid-30s) if he could get up so that the older woman could sit down, he freaked out. He told the older man that he should get up if he wanted her to have a place to sit. The 35-year-old then continued to insult the man. He told him to shut his mouth, that he could lick his ass, and then gave him the finger as he got off the bus. (meanwhile the woman found a seat elsewhere). Was that really necessary? Just get up and let the woman sit in your damn seat. She needs it more than you do. That's the Christmas spirit for you. Thank goodness most of the people I encounter here are willing to give up their seat to those who need it.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Awkward
Stress. It's losing your passport, spraining your ankle, preparing for two exams, taking said exams, spending lots of money to replace the lost passport in question, and not getting any sleep. But I digress...
In between all of this, I did have some fun. The Juli concert on Monday night was just what I needed! My first German concert...who better to go with than Christine? For dinner we ended up at one of the shittiest cafe's in Munich, as almost everything was closed. Thank you Germany for that.... Although I will say that our incredibly ADD waiter was worth the price of the bill. If she fixed our menus one more time until they were "just so" I think I would've killed her.
Anyway, the concert was in a small place that had more of a bar/disco type feel. After two wine spritzers I was ready to dance, and we enjoyed ourselves, despite the couple in front of us. At one point I considered throwing up on them.
After the concert Christine drove me to the Youth Hostel that I was staying at. When I stepped in I felt like I was in America. Everyone there was from one state or another, and even the receptionists were American. When I went into my room it didn't look so bad. Four other students, all from either Brazil or China, were sleeping there and they were very nice and respectful. However, I still had trouble sleeping, as the floor below us housed the youth hostel bar, where apparently everyone besides us were partying well into the night. I finally fell asleep around 3 or 4am, only to woken up at 8pm by the people in the next room, who were having the loudest sex I have ever heard. Awkward. I could have killed them for making me lose an hour of sleep.
Life abroad is entertaining.
In between all of this, I did have some fun. The Juli concert on Monday night was just what I needed! My first German concert...who better to go with than Christine? For dinner we ended up at one of the shittiest cafe's in Munich, as almost everything was closed. Thank you Germany for that.... Although I will say that our incredibly ADD waiter was worth the price of the bill. If she fixed our menus one more time until they were "just so" I think I would've killed her.
Anyway, the concert was in a small place that had more of a bar/disco type feel. After two wine spritzers I was ready to dance, and we enjoyed ourselves, despite the couple in front of us. At one point I considered throwing up on them.
After the concert Christine drove me to the Youth Hostel that I was staying at. When I stepped in I felt like I was in America. Everyone there was from one state or another, and even the receptionists were American. When I went into my room it didn't look so bad. Four other students, all from either Brazil or China, were sleeping there and they were very nice and respectful. However, I still had trouble sleeping, as the floor below us housed the youth hostel bar, where apparently everyone besides us were partying well into the night. I finally fell asleep around 3 or 4am, only to woken up at 8pm by the people in the next room, who were having the loudest sex I have ever heard. Awkward. I could have killed them for making me lose an hour of sleep.
Life abroad is entertaining.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Pride
I saw her again the other day. She was looking through garbage cans by my current home and I just wanted to cry. I tried to give her money but she wouldn't let me. I'm sure she was just too proud.
Be happy with what you have, and be compassionate of others. You never know what kind of crosses that they have to bare.
Be happy with what you have, and be compassionate of others. You never know what kind of crosses that they have to bare.
Cue the music....
I used to think these type of things only happened in movies. Apparently not....
The other morning, on my way to catch a bus to Salzburg's main station, I was in a hurry. I had to meet the church group there that I was traveling to Vienna with. Of course, the bus station by my place is closed down due to construction, so I went to the stop next to it: one I wasn't familiar with. I ran to catch the bus, one that I had thought was traveling to the Salzburg train station. About 10 minutes into the ride I realized we were going in the wrong direction. I had to get out of the bus and run like a mad woman until I got back to the street by my apartment. Now I was still a 20-minute walk away from the main station and it looked like I had run out of options, so I went through my backpack, trying to find the group leaders' numbers so that I could call them and inform them that I wouldn't be able to make it. After all, I had to meet them there in 5 minutes. Then, with a sudden burst of inspiration, I waved frantically for a cab, despite the fact that it's hard to catch one where I lived. As if out of nowhere, one stopped and I got in quickly. He asked me if I was in a hurry and I confirmed I was. I had to make it to the main station: and quick! He told me not to worry--he had worked in Paris as a cab driver and was used to driving fast. He drove quickly but skillfully, and I arrived on time. A miracle.
Fast forward to that afternoon: our group toured the United Nations in Vienna, went to a "Schickimicki" Kaffeehaus for apple strudel and coffee, and even went to the Christmas market in front of the Rathaus that evening. Simply amazing. Until....that next morning in the hotel. Having gotten up for breakfast at 8:30, I looked like death as I walked down to meet the others. I sat with them at a table but was not taking part in the conversation. After having eaten a sandwich I went up to get coffee and yogurt. I grabbed what I wanted, and, hands full, tried to walk back to my table. As if out of a movie, I tripped over the step, and twisted my ankle as the dishes flew in the air. Everybody gasped and there were immediately at least 4 people at my side, helping me to get up and back to my chair. Embarrassing doesn't even begin to cover it. It was unreal.
Now here I sit, in my room, with a twisted, swollen ankle, a headache, and a pissed out outlook on life. Did I happened to mention somehow in the past few days I have also lost my passport?
Oh the joys of living abroad...no matter what, I wouldn't trade this whole experience for everything. At least these types of stories will add to the book I am going to write someday.
Here's hoping I make it through the next few days without incident.
Love, Molly
The other morning, on my way to catch a bus to Salzburg's main station, I was in a hurry. I had to meet the church group there that I was traveling to Vienna with. Of course, the bus station by my place is closed down due to construction, so I went to the stop next to it: one I wasn't familiar with. I ran to catch the bus, one that I had thought was traveling to the Salzburg train station. About 10 minutes into the ride I realized we were going in the wrong direction. I had to get out of the bus and run like a mad woman until I got back to the street by my apartment. Now I was still a 20-minute walk away from the main station and it looked like I had run out of options, so I went through my backpack, trying to find the group leaders' numbers so that I could call them and inform them that I wouldn't be able to make it. After all, I had to meet them there in 5 minutes. Then, with a sudden burst of inspiration, I waved frantically for a cab, despite the fact that it's hard to catch one where I lived. As if out of nowhere, one stopped and I got in quickly. He asked me if I was in a hurry and I confirmed I was. I had to make it to the main station: and quick! He told me not to worry--he had worked in Paris as a cab driver and was used to driving fast. He drove quickly but skillfully, and I arrived on time. A miracle.
Fast forward to that afternoon: our group toured the United Nations in Vienna, went to a "Schickimicki" Kaffeehaus for apple strudel and coffee, and even went to the Christmas market in front of the Rathaus that evening. Simply amazing. Until....that next morning in the hotel. Having gotten up for breakfast at 8:30, I looked like death as I walked down to meet the others. I sat with them at a table but was not taking part in the conversation. After having eaten a sandwich I went up to get coffee and yogurt. I grabbed what I wanted, and, hands full, tried to walk back to my table. As if out of a movie, I tripped over the step, and twisted my ankle as the dishes flew in the air. Everybody gasped and there were immediately at least 4 people at my side, helping me to get up and back to my chair. Embarrassing doesn't even begin to cover it. It was unreal.
Now here I sit, in my room, with a twisted, swollen ankle, a headache, and a pissed out outlook on life. Did I happened to mention somehow in the past few days I have also lost my passport?
Oh the joys of living abroad...no matter what, I wouldn't trade this whole experience for everything. At least these types of stories will add to the book I am going to write someday.
Here's hoping I make it through the next few days without incident.
Love, Molly
Monday, November 15, 2010
Visiting the Deuke's
I spent Thursday-Sunday with my favorite host family, the Deuke's. I ended up hanging out with a friend of mine from my program in Tübingen one night, babysitting the kids on the other, biking along the Isar with the entire family on the other, and studying for exams.
One day I went shopping with Susanne and I got Frauke's kids their Christmas presents.
All in all, it was a good time :)
Love, Molly
One day I went shopping with Susanne and I got Frauke's kids their Christmas presents.
All in all, it was a good time :)
Love, Molly
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
University
These past 5 weeks in Austria, as I've been sitting in my Erziehungswissenschaft course, I have been observing the overall learning environment. Here are a few things (although they may simply be generalizations) that I have found:
1) Students are actually paying attention. I have seen maybe 1 person text during class, but that is a rarity. If students have computers with them, it's usually to take notes and not to simply socialize on Facebook.
2) The professor asks the students questions and waits a while to give the students a chance to think, rather then giving the students the answer if they don't answer within a few seconds.
3) If the professor doesn't know the answer to a question, he admits it and asks the students if any of them are able to explain something. Thus, he doesn't act like a no-it-all and isn't afraid to admit when something isn't his area of expertise.
4) If the professor does not agree with a student's answer, he says so. In America, the professor would most likely say, "Hmm. That's a good point, but actually I was looking for something else...."
I am not criticizing American universities, I am simply writing down observations, having studied in both countries.
1) Students are actually paying attention. I have seen maybe 1 person text during class, but that is a rarity. If students have computers with them, it's usually to take notes and not to simply socialize on Facebook.
2) The professor asks the students questions and waits a while to give the students a chance to think, rather then giving the students the answer if they don't answer within a few seconds.
3) If the professor doesn't know the answer to a question, he admits it and asks the students if any of them are able to explain something. Thus, he doesn't act like a no-it-all and isn't afraid to admit when something isn't his area of expertise.
4) If the professor does not agree with a student's answer, he says so. In America, the professor would most likely say, "Hmm. That's a good point, but actually I was looking for something else...."
I am not criticizing American universities, I am simply writing down observations, having studied in both countries.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Appreciation
Everyday, as I step out of the former convent that is now my home, I pass a shop with the most beautiful, stylish leather jacket I have ever seen. It's calling my name. I want it; I have to have it. But my eyes always wander to the pricetag: 161 Euro. As much as I want it, that's my food allowance for more than 2 weeks, and I know that I can't afford it. I then get annoyed that I don't have more money, instead of appreciating what I have.
The other day, however, that all changed. On my way to the bakery to get my usual breakfast, I noticed a small, gray-haired woman bent over a trash can. She was looking through it, trying to find something in there to eat. It tore on my heart strings, so I went to the bakery and bought something for her as well. When I went back to give it to her, she was already gone. It made me really think about what I have. No, I can't afford an expensive leather jacket, but wasn't that just a want and not a need? I have food, shelter, and good friends. And that happens to be a lot more than some people have.
So just for today, I'm going to be thankful for what I have.
The other day, however, that all changed. On my way to the bakery to get my usual breakfast, I noticed a small, gray-haired woman bent over a trash can. She was looking through it, trying to find something in there to eat. It tore on my heart strings, so I went to the bakery and bought something for her as well. When I went back to give it to her, she was already gone. It made me really think about what I have. No, I can't afford an expensive leather jacket, but wasn't that just a want and not a need? I have food, shelter, and good friends. And that happens to be a lot more than some people have.
So just for today, I'm going to be thankful for what I have.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Really?
As I look back at the expectations that I had for this year, I have to laugh. I had expected meeting people to be so easy, and thought that I would be speaking German every second of everyday.
It is not easy to meet new people. Developing friendships takes time, as hard as it is for an impatient person like me to admit. It is even more difficult in this situation, being a foreigner and often ending up around the students I came here with: Americans.
It's lonely at times. But it makes me appreciate what all of those ex-pats that I have met over the years have been through. And I know that this experience is making me a stronger person.
It is not easy to meet new people. Developing friendships takes time, as hard as it is for an impatient person like me to admit. It is even more difficult in this situation, being a foreigner and often ending up around the students I came here with: Americans.
It's lonely at times. But it makes me appreciate what all of those ex-pats that I have met over the years have been through. And I know that this experience is making me a stronger person.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
She wasn't much of a traveler...
My late grandmother wasn't much of a traveler, as I found out when I heard that she had only been to one place in Europe: England. When she passed away, I got to keep 2 of her passports, and was surprised to see that she had been to London, England, at least half a dozen times. I wondered why, given the chance, she would choose to go to London again and again instead of trying different cities.
This past weekend, my question was answered when I visited London for the first time. It was a spontaneous trip, driven more by the fact that it was close by than a huge desire to go there. My admiration for Princess Diana is really the extent to my connection with the city. However, that ended when I actually reached the city of London. Everything about it is elegant and centered around the Royal Family. Everything from castles to churches to, believe it or not, mailboxes and trash cans, this city is a mix of old-fashioned flair and modern convenience.
I visited nearly everything a tourist has to see in just 3 short days. I saw Westminster Abby, Windsor Castle, St. Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, Kensington Palace, and so much more. However, what had the biggest effect on me was walking along the pond in front of Kensington Palace, where Diana spent her year's as a royal.
Diana died at just 36 years old in a tragic car accident in Paris in 1997. Dubbed "the people's Princess" for her charity work, I have much admired her since reading her autobiography as a 15-year-old high school student, though not for the reasons one would expect. She herself dealt with depression and anxiety issues, and I admired her courage and strength in trying to deal with them, all while in front of the public eye. She was a selfless woman who threw herself into her charity work in third world countries, going as far as to shake hands with a man with AIDS. Even today, unfortunately, some nurses refuse to touch AIDS patients, even though they should be well aware that AIDS is not transmitted simply by touch. She was truly an inspiration to the world and died much to soon.
As I walked and thought about Diana and her contribution to the world, my thoughts drifted to my Grandmother, also an avid Diana fan. I felt so connected to her at that moment. I finally understood why she loved the city so much. Not only was it beautiful, but it still contained the soul of an amazing woman who died well before her time. My grandmother may be dead, but she is not gone. I feel her every time I read the countless letters she used to send me, or I hear my father talk about her. She is ever-present, watching over me. I've never felt more connected to her than I do right now.
This past weekend, my question was answered when I visited London for the first time. It was a spontaneous trip, driven more by the fact that it was close by than a huge desire to go there. My admiration for Princess Diana is really the extent to my connection with the city. However, that ended when I actually reached the city of London. Everything about it is elegant and centered around the Royal Family. Everything from castles to churches to, believe it or not, mailboxes and trash cans, this city is a mix of old-fashioned flair and modern convenience.
I visited nearly everything a tourist has to see in just 3 short days. I saw Westminster Abby, Windsor Castle, St. Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, Kensington Palace, and so much more. However, what had the biggest effect on me was walking along the pond in front of Kensington Palace, where Diana spent her year's as a royal.
Diana died at just 36 years old in a tragic car accident in Paris in 1997. Dubbed "the people's Princess" for her charity work, I have much admired her since reading her autobiography as a 15-year-old high school student, though not for the reasons one would expect. She herself dealt with depression and anxiety issues, and I admired her courage and strength in trying to deal with them, all while in front of the public eye. She was a selfless woman who threw herself into her charity work in third world countries, going as far as to shake hands with a man with AIDS. Even today, unfortunately, some nurses refuse to touch AIDS patients, even though they should be well aware that AIDS is not transmitted simply by touch. She was truly an inspiration to the world and died much to soon.
As I walked and thought about Diana and her contribution to the world, my thoughts drifted to my Grandmother, also an avid Diana fan. I felt so connected to her at that moment. I finally understood why she loved the city so much. Not only was it beautiful, but it still contained the soul of an amazing woman who died well before her time. My grandmother may be dead, but she is not gone. I feel her every time I read the countless letters she used to send me, or I hear my father talk about her. She is ever-present, watching over me. I've never felt more connected to her than I do right now.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Alcohol
My name is Molly Rowland, and I am an alcoholic. Come on, me? A chocoholic, maybe.... No, what I really want to talk about at this very moment is the drinking age here in Austria. It's 16 years old, and I find that to be way too young. People may like to think that the younger you start drinking the more responsible you are about it, but I find that to be a falsehood. No, I'm not saying that they should bump the drinking age up to 21. America has the drinking age wrong as well.
On my way home from a friends this evening, I enjoyed riding the bus with 8 or so kids that looked to be about 16. They were rowdy, drunk, and just plain annoying. It's 10pm on a Thursday night, really?! I got out of the bus only to find broken glass everywhere, and young kids pulling back a few brewskies. As I walk by one boy is kicking bottles of broken glass around. Not at all dangerous when one is extremely intoxicated.
As I wait to cross the street a few teens decide to ignore the traffic sign and walk in the middle of the street, despite the fact that there were cars coming. He holds up his hands, laughing, and says something along the lines of "hit me" as he grins at his friends. Really hilarious, if you want to end up dead. This also brings up the issue of being able to drink alcohol in public...
So here's what it boils down to:
A) I feel 16 year olds are too young to be legally allowed to drink. I realize that adults can also act just as stupid when they're drunk, but they tend to do that more in the privacy of their own homes or in bars. The drunk idiots I see outside are usually kids.
B) Drinking should not be allowed on busses or outside. All it does is create an environment that is dangerous for those drinking and the people around them.
There really is no right drinking age, but if I could choose:
I would go for the legal drinking age being 19. At that point one is in college-or at least out of high school, and should be able to act responsibly. Generally speaking, there is a huge difference between 16-year-olds and 19-year-olds. Those few years do tend to make a difference in the maturity of individuals.
Ok, I will admit it. I drank tonight. But then again, I wasn't the one standing in front of a bus, waving my hands saying, "hit me." Oh kids...the reason I could never be a high school teacher....
On my way home from a friends this evening, I enjoyed riding the bus with 8 or so kids that looked to be about 16. They were rowdy, drunk, and just plain annoying. It's 10pm on a Thursday night, really?! I got out of the bus only to find broken glass everywhere, and young kids pulling back a few brewskies. As I walk by one boy is kicking bottles of broken glass around. Not at all dangerous when one is extremely intoxicated.
As I wait to cross the street a few teens decide to ignore the traffic sign and walk in the middle of the street, despite the fact that there were cars coming. He holds up his hands, laughing, and says something along the lines of "hit me" as he grins at his friends. Really hilarious, if you want to end up dead. This also brings up the issue of being able to drink alcohol in public...
So here's what it boils down to:
A) I feel 16 year olds are too young to be legally allowed to drink. I realize that adults can also act just as stupid when they're drunk, but they tend to do that more in the privacy of their own homes or in bars. The drunk idiots I see outside are usually kids.
B) Drinking should not be allowed on busses or outside. All it does is create an environment that is dangerous for those drinking and the people around them.
There really is no right drinking age, but if I could choose:
I would go for the legal drinking age being 19. At that point one is in college-or at least out of high school, and should be able to act responsibly. Generally speaking, there is a huge difference between 16-year-olds and 19-year-olds. Those few years do tend to make a difference in the maturity of individuals.
Ok, I will admit it. I drank tonight. But then again, I wasn't the one standing in front of a bus, waving my hands saying, "hit me." Oh kids...the reason I could never be a high school teacher....
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Vacation Days, Overworked Americans
Grüss Gott!
No, this entry is not about me bragging about my vacations. As many of you know, last weekend I went to Vienna with the other students from my study abroad program, and it was amazing. Authentic Viennese meals, wine tasting, shopping, a tea house, and a guided walking tour. And, this coming weekend, we have an extra few days off so I'm going to London with some other grad students. However, I am actually talking about vacation in another sense.
Today in my German as a second language course, our professor mentioned the 25 days a year that Austrians are legally entitled to. When I mentioned that workers in America get 2 weeks if they are lucky, and that most of them don't take the aforementioned day, even if they are sick, she looked at me as if I had two heads.
Thansk for the sympathy, because I sure as hell don't understand it either. The million dollar question is: would you rather have more days off and earn less money, or less days off and more money? In a perfect world both could be had, but that just isn't so. I would choose the extra day off, everytime.
Americans are overworked and all it is leading to is depression, obesity, heart attacks, and overall dissatisfaction with life. What is the point of working to you drop if you don't get to live and enjoy life?
I am not totally naive. I realize there are bills to pay. It is inevitable that one has to pay for food and shelter, and now things like a phone, and perhaps a car. But no one actually needs cable, 10 big screen tvs, or designer clothing. And, if you are working all of the time, are you ever enjoying these things anyway?
I just feel like we need to take more time and enjoy life. Perhaps Americans will never get as many days off as Europeans (that is one of the major reasons I am considering moving to Europe), but many feel guilty to even take off the 2 weeks they are offered! I am telling people to take them and relax. Spend time with your family, sleep in, or take that trip to Paris you always wanted. It's your life. You live in once. You might as well enjoy it.
No, this entry is not about me bragging about my vacations. As many of you know, last weekend I went to Vienna with the other students from my study abroad program, and it was amazing. Authentic Viennese meals, wine tasting, shopping, a tea house, and a guided walking tour. And, this coming weekend, we have an extra few days off so I'm going to London with some other grad students. However, I am actually talking about vacation in another sense.
Today in my German as a second language course, our professor mentioned the 25 days a year that Austrians are legally entitled to. When I mentioned that workers in America get 2 weeks if they are lucky, and that most of them don't take the aforementioned day, even if they are sick, she looked at me as if I had two heads.
Thansk for the sympathy, because I sure as hell don't understand it either. The million dollar question is: would you rather have more days off and earn less money, or less days off and more money? In a perfect world both could be had, but that just isn't so. I would choose the extra day off, everytime.
Americans are overworked and all it is leading to is depression, obesity, heart attacks, and overall dissatisfaction with life. What is the point of working to you drop if you don't get to live and enjoy life?
I am not totally naive. I realize there are bills to pay. It is inevitable that one has to pay for food and shelter, and now things like a phone, and perhaps a car. But no one actually needs cable, 10 big screen tvs, or designer clothing. And, if you are working all of the time, are you ever enjoying these things anyway?
I just feel like we need to take more time and enjoy life. Perhaps Americans will never get as many days off as Europeans (that is one of the major reasons I am considering moving to Europe), but many feel guilty to even take off the 2 weeks they are offered! I am telling people to take them and relax. Spend time with your family, sleep in, or take that trip to Paris you always wanted. It's your life. You live in once. You might as well enjoy it.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Tourists....
Coming from a small town in Michigan, I am not used to having tourists around. When Target gets too crowded and I can't look for what I want in peace, I am often inclined to simply drive home without buying anything. Try putting a person like this in Salzburg, Austria, and, not only that, but on the most touristy street in this already touristy city. I often get annoyed when I am on my bike and am blocked by the Japanese tourists taking pictures of the cement or something else just as interesting, making me arrive at my destination 30 seconds later than I wanted to. For someone that wakes up at the last possible second every morning, it makes all of the difference.
Kidding aside (okay, large crowds do annoy me), I do feel incredibly lucky to be able to spend a year in a place like this. In the morning I do wake up to church bells that are so loud, I often think that my parents can hear them all the way in America. But I get up, walk out of what is a former convent, and walk across the narrow street to the bakery. There I greet the same woman I see every morning and order my usual: a hot chocolate to go and a bread roll. I stroll along the street and glance quickly at the post office, reminding myself that I mustn't forget to send this or that person a postcard to remind them that I miss them. Then comes the small chocolate and fruit shop. I always stop and glance at the older gentlemen that owns the place. He wears glasses that are always low on the bridge of his nose and looks as if he could be a coin collector. He is there every day, 7 days a week, and I often wonder what his life story is. Then I pass the wine bar, that I remind myself I must go to, being the lover of wine that I am. Then it's time to cross the bridge, where I stop to glance at the mountains, the hills, the beautiful greenery and the architecture, while also simultaneously trying to quickly walk past the tourists that are, again, taking horrible pictures of each other that indeed will not turn out well.
Finally I can take the bus to class. When I actually am in class, and am not feeling particularly interested in the subject, I look out the window and admire the beautiful view of the mountains and the huge fortress that lies before me, and am so grateful for who I am and how far I've come. After all, it has lead me here.
Kidding aside (okay, large crowds do annoy me), I do feel incredibly lucky to be able to spend a year in a place like this. In the morning I do wake up to church bells that are so loud, I often think that my parents can hear them all the way in America. But I get up, walk out of what is a former convent, and walk across the narrow street to the bakery. There I greet the same woman I see every morning and order my usual: a hot chocolate to go and a bread roll. I stroll along the street and glance quickly at the post office, reminding myself that I mustn't forget to send this or that person a postcard to remind them that I miss them. Then comes the small chocolate and fruit shop. I always stop and glance at the older gentlemen that owns the place. He wears glasses that are always low on the bridge of his nose and looks as if he could be a coin collector. He is there every day, 7 days a week, and I often wonder what his life story is. Then I pass the wine bar, that I remind myself I must go to, being the lover of wine that I am. Then it's time to cross the bridge, where I stop to glance at the mountains, the hills, the beautiful greenery and the architecture, while also simultaneously trying to quickly walk past the tourists that are, again, taking horrible pictures of each other that indeed will not turn out well.
Finally I can take the bus to class. When I actually am in class, and am not feeling particularly interested in the subject, I look out the window and admire the beautiful view of the mountains and the huge fortress that lies before me, and am so grateful for who I am and how far I've come. After all, it has lead me here.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Fahrscheine, bitte!
Public transportation in Europe (or at least in Austria and Germany), relies heavily on the honor system. You may either buy a ticket from the driver at the front of the bus, or go in through the back, assuming you have a long-term ticket or have already purchased a ticket from a machine. Easy enough, right? A lot of people get on without paying....
This morning I had an appointment with a Professor. Upon rising at 8am for the third day in a row, I wanted to kill myself. I did manage, however, to get out of the building at 8:30am, as planned. I got onto the bus, put my headphones in my ears, and started jamming to Monday Morning, a song that I could listen to 30 times a day. Just before my stop I hear a man say "Fahrscheine bitte!" or "Tickets please!" I look down to grab my ticket. Oh shit. I brought the wrong purse this morning.
The man controlling the tickets stares at me, unamused. I think fast, and decide it would be best to converse with him in English, rather than German. If I had spoken with him in German, I would assume that he would've thought someone fluent in German should've known better than to forget their ticket. After explaining my situation, we have arrived at my stop, and he motions for me to get off of the train. He then demands 60 Euro from me, the penalty for "Schwarz fahren," or being caught on public transportation without a ticket. I calmly tell him that I do not have 60 Euro with me, at which point he says that I need to get the money somehow or he will call the police. And that, he told me, was going to be very expensive.
Shit. What now? I was so close by. I could walk down the street to my professor. If only I had 60 Euro with me.... But I didn't, and I told him I could get the money out of the bank with my debit card. So he motions for me to get on the next bus, and we ride over to the bank. Before we get there, he asks if I have 5 Euro. I hand it to him, and he buys me a day ticket. He hands it to me and says that it is good for the whole day, and that I had better go and get a month or semester ticket. He told me how to get back to where I was meeting my professor, and that was it. I got off of the hook in away, but the experience frightened me. In the first place, it was terribly embarrassing, and in the second place, being on the bus without a ticket could end up being terribly expensive! 60 Euro is my food money for a week! Needless to say, I will not be forgetting my bus ticket anytime soon....
This morning I had an appointment with a Professor. Upon rising at 8am for the third day in a row, I wanted to kill myself. I did manage, however, to get out of the building at 8:30am, as planned. I got onto the bus, put my headphones in my ears, and started jamming to Monday Morning, a song that I could listen to 30 times a day. Just before my stop I hear a man say "Fahrscheine bitte!" or "Tickets please!" I look down to grab my ticket. Oh shit. I brought the wrong purse this morning.
The man controlling the tickets stares at me, unamused. I think fast, and decide it would be best to converse with him in English, rather than German. If I had spoken with him in German, I would assume that he would've thought someone fluent in German should've known better than to forget their ticket. After explaining my situation, we have arrived at my stop, and he motions for me to get off of the train. He then demands 60 Euro from me, the penalty for "Schwarz fahren," or being caught on public transportation without a ticket. I calmly tell him that I do not have 60 Euro with me, at which point he says that I need to get the money somehow or he will call the police. And that, he told me, was going to be very expensive.
Shit. What now? I was so close by. I could walk down the street to my professor. If only I had 60 Euro with me.... But I didn't, and I told him I could get the money out of the bank with my debit card. So he motions for me to get on the next bus, and we ride over to the bank. Before we get there, he asks if I have 5 Euro. I hand it to him, and he buys me a day ticket. He hands it to me and says that it is good for the whole day, and that I had better go and get a month or semester ticket. He told me how to get back to where I was meeting my professor, and that was it. I got off of the hook in away, but the experience frightened me. In the first place, it was terribly embarrassing, and in the second place, being on the bus without a ticket could end up being terribly expensive! 60 Euro is my food money for a week! Needless to say, I will not be forgetting my bus ticket anytime soon....
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Frustration
I tend to be the type of person that likes to just include the good times, but the whole idea of studying abroad is to learn and grow, so I think I will be "typically German" by being honest here.
It is hard for me to deal with change. I had a day or two of a transition period each time I moved on to a new program (to the language course in Tübingen, for example). This time in Salzburg is no different. For the past couple of years, when I visited Germany, I could understand what was going on around me. The conversations aren't difficult to understand, and I feel, for the most part, at home. Then, low and behold, this year I end up studying abroad in Austria, where they also speak "German." I, however, have no idea in hell what they are saying.
Yesterday, for example, some of the other students and I took advantage of the cheap Bayern-Ticket and took the 2 hour train ride to Munich (although I had just left Munich yesterday to move to Salzburg, I was eager to go back). There, I had no problem with the language. On the way back to Austria, however, everyone was loud and drunk, due to having been at the Oktoberfest. These men and women made jokes in what was supposedly German, and, instead of laughing like I usually would, I just stared blankly. I couldn't understand a word they were saying! I really felt like I had been studying German for 7 weeks instead of 7 years. I just didn't get it. Austrian German is totally different.
It's definitely frustrating, but I know God sent me here for something. If He thinks I can do it, than I think I can do it. I'm going to try my hardest to understand the cultural differences. I'm going to attend classes, study hard, travel and hope for the best. And perhaps switch my master's thesis to something along the lines of "The cultural differences between Germany and Austria." That is a bit broad, but I can narrow the spectrum by the end of the year.
This is me signing out, hoping for the best.
Molly
It is hard for me to deal with change. I had a day or two of a transition period each time I moved on to a new program (to the language course in Tübingen, for example). This time in Salzburg is no different. For the past couple of years, when I visited Germany, I could understand what was going on around me. The conversations aren't difficult to understand, and I feel, for the most part, at home. Then, low and behold, this year I end up studying abroad in Austria, where they also speak "German." I, however, have no idea in hell what they are saying.
Yesterday, for example, some of the other students and I took advantage of the cheap Bayern-Ticket and took the 2 hour train ride to Munich (although I had just left Munich yesterday to move to Salzburg, I was eager to go back). There, I had no problem with the language. On the way back to Austria, however, everyone was loud and drunk, due to having been at the Oktoberfest. These men and women made jokes in what was supposedly German, and, instead of laughing like I usually would, I just stared blankly. I couldn't understand a word they were saying! I really felt like I had been studying German for 7 weeks instead of 7 years. I just didn't get it. Austrian German is totally different.
It's definitely frustrating, but I know God sent me here for something. If He thinks I can do it, than I think I can do it. I'm going to try my hardest to understand the cultural differences. I'm going to attend classes, study hard, travel and hope for the best. And perhaps switch my master's thesis to something along the lines of "The cultural differences between Germany and Austria." That is a bit broad, but I can narrow the spectrum by the end of the year.
This is me signing out, hoping for the best.
Molly
Friday, October 1, 2010
Generosity
Before I begin the account of the last 2 weeks I spent in Munich (3 weeks total), I would lake to take this time to talk about the people here.
Back when I was 11 (oh no, not one of those stories!!!) I worked as a mother's helper for a German family down my street. I thought their house smelled different (like German waffles, not like my house, anyway), I wondered why they ate something called Kinder Schokolade, and why they always left their door open. I didn't understand them, and, at that age, frankly, I didn't care. That family came and went and I really didn't think a thing of it. Of course, I enjoyed hearing from them and vice-versa, but they hadn't inspired me or anything.
Then, along comes the day sophomore year when I decide I need to study a language other than French. I actually had a lot of those days where I decided I was going to switch out of classes and into others-my counselor rarely appreciated a visit from me. So along came that day, just like any other day, except that day, I was picking the right class to switch into. I switched into German four weeks late, something I had done with lots of other classes (Would you believe I wanted to take an anatomy class! I switched out of that quickly) I didn't expect much upon changing, was just curious.
The moment I walked into the classroom it changed my life. I liked my teacher right away, a strong, competent, kind yet stern women that I admired from the moment I saw her. I received my text book that day and went straight home to study. That was never me. I only studied for things I felt like were really worth my time. Low and behold, soon after starting to take German, I decided to e-mail that family I used to mother's helper for. I tried using some of my, at that time, very bad German, and the mother, Elke, and I e-mailed back and forth. Then came the day that I received an e-mail that would change my life. "Do you want to come and visit us in Germany?" Elke asked. Wow, Europe! I'd never really been anywhere so exotic and exciting. That summer wasn't a good time for me, but I told Elke the following summer (when I would be 17) would be perfect. And, it was. I visited them for 3 weeks in a small town in southern Germany.
Since this time I have babysat for countless Germans in the Detroit area and, thanks to their generosity, have been able to come and visit many of them in Germany. Since my first trip in 2002, I have been to Germany 4 times. Who are these families?
There is Frauke and her kids. I helped babysit for her kids, and in exchange got a plane ticket to Germany and the most amazing 2 summers of my life. Such a kind, warm, and thoughtful woman that doubles as my mom. There is Christine, who is always willing to let me stay with her and her family. She's incredibly generous, funny, kind and always good for a laugh and a smile. She's great to have around and can always make me feel good. Then there is Susanne, typically German, amazing sense of humor, and incredibly warm and kind. She has a very sympathetic ear. Then there are countless others, Anja and her family, Bettina and hers, Anke's mother--"Oma." So many. I am so lucky to have them all.
They have picked me up at airports, driven me to train stations, bought me drinks, meals, cooked for me, invited me into their home, and helped me when I had a question or an issue. They let me become like a member of their family. I care about them more than they know. I am so grateful to these generous people. These women that I admire so much. They have careers, children, very busy lives-but they let me in. They made time for me. It would've been just as easy for them to say, "Hmm. How about not? I'm busy enough as it is." I really love and care about them and their families, and I hope they know how very thankful I am to have them in my lives. They are the reason why I feel so comfortable in Europe. I might not see them all the time, but I know that they are there if I need them.
They are the reason why I love Germany so much. Yes, I quite fancy the ice cream, the coffee, the cobblestone streets, the museums, and of course, the language. But they are what make it so wonderful for me here. They come from a completely different cultural background that I find both fascinating, and, at times, confusing. But I love Germany, and it's people. They have all helped me understand this culture. They leave their windows open without screens, walk everywhere, talk openly about tough issues, are incredibly blunt, but, most, of all, they are generous and kind. When you befriend a German, you are friends for life. :)
Back when I was 11 (oh no, not one of those stories!!!) I worked as a mother's helper for a German family down my street. I thought their house smelled different (like German waffles, not like my house, anyway), I wondered why they ate something called Kinder Schokolade, and why they always left their door open. I didn't understand them, and, at that age, frankly, I didn't care. That family came and went and I really didn't think a thing of it. Of course, I enjoyed hearing from them and vice-versa, but they hadn't inspired me or anything.
Then, along comes the day sophomore year when I decide I need to study a language other than French. I actually had a lot of those days where I decided I was going to switch out of classes and into others-my counselor rarely appreciated a visit from me. So along came that day, just like any other day, except that day, I was picking the right class to switch into. I switched into German four weeks late, something I had done with lots of other classes (Would you believe I wanted to take an anatomy class! I switched out of that quickly) I didn't expect much upon changing, was just curious.
The moment I walked into the classroom it changed my life. I liked my teacher right away, a strong, competent, kind yet stern women that I admired from the moment I saw her. I received my text book that day and went straight home to study. That was never me. I only studied for things I felt like were really worth my time. Low and behold, soon after starting to take German, I decided to e-mail that family I used to mother's helper for. I tried using some of my, at that time, very bad German, and the mother, Elke, and I e-mailed back and forth. Then came the day that I received an e-mail that would change my life. "Do you want to come and visit us in Germany?" Elke asked. Wow, Europe! I'd never really been anywhere so exotic and exciting. That summer wasn't a good time for me, but I told Elke the following summer (when I would be 17) would be perfect. And, it was. I visited them for 3 weeks in a small town in southern Germany.
Since this time I have babysat for countless Germans in the Detroit area and, thanks to their generosity, have been able to come and visit many of them in Germany. Since my first trip in 2002, I have been to Germany 4 times. Who are these families?
There is Frauke and her kids. I helped babysit for her kids, and in exchange got a plane ticket to Germany and the most amazing 2 summers of my life. Such a kind, warm, and thoughtful woman that doubles as my mom. There is Christine, who is always willing to let me stay with her and her family. She's incredibly generous, funny, kind and always good for a laugh and a smile. She's great to have around and can always make me feel good. Then there is Susanne, typically German, amazing sense of humor, and incredibly warm and kind. She has a very sympathetic ear. Then there are countless others, Anja and her family, Bettina and hers, Anke's mother--"Oma." So many. I am so lucky to have them all.
They have picked me up at airports, driven me to train stations, bought me drinks, meals, cooked for me, invited me into their home, and helped me when I had a question or an issue. They let me become like a member of their family. I care about them more than they know. I am so grateful to these generous people. These women that I admire so much. They have careers, children, very busy lives-but they let me in. They made time for me. It would've been just as easy for them to say, "Hmm. How about not? I'm busy enough as it is." I really love and care about them and their families, and I hope they know how very thankful I am to have them in my lives. They are the reason why I feel so comfortable in Europe. I might not see them all the time, but I know that they are there if I need them.
They are the reason why I love Germany so much. Yes, I quite fancy the ice cream, the coffee, the cobblestone streets, the museums, and of course, the language. But they are what make it so wonderful for me here. They come from a completely different cultural background that I find both fascinating, and, at times, confusing. But I love Germany, and it's people. They have all helped me understand this culture. They leave their windows open without screens, walk everywhere, talk openly about tough issues, are incredibly blunt, but, most, of all, they are generous and kind. When you befriend a German, you are friends for life. :)
Monday, September 27, 2010
Munich & Salzburg
The next morning, a Monday, I began my long journey (12 hours) to Munich. First Marlies drove me to the station. From there I changed trains three times, then to a tram, and then a subway, before getting picked up from Susanne in Munich. Whew! I was exhausted. Needless to say I didn't do much the first couple of days. I had actually wanted to go out on Wednesday and look at the city, but the subway employees were on strike, so the trains weren't running that often. On Wednesday even I babysat for Susanne's kids, which was really fun, because I had missed them (I used to babysit for them a couple times a week when they lived in the states). On Thursday I finally went into downtown, where there were 4312341234 tourists because Oktoberfest was about to start. I bought a smoothie, walked around, and then went to a museum with exhibits about the Oktoberfest and the Nazis. Admission was only 2 Euro for students. That's the nice thing about Europe-travel, museums---cultural things--are all pretty affordable. On Friday I went to a memorial at the University of Munich for Sophie Scholl and the other members of the Nazi-Resistance group, the White Rose. I was in the building where she and the others had actually passed out the pamphlets speaking out against Hitler, back when they were students at the University. For those who don't know, she and the others were arrested, and eventually, beheaded for speaking out against the Third Reich.
That weekend involved me feeling not too great, so I didn't do a whole lot. On Saturday I did go with Susanne and her family to a Trachten outlet (an outlet for traditional Bavarian clothes) where I bought my pink Dirndl. On Sunday I was feeling better, so Susanne, her son, Frederic, and I went on a 10 km bike ride through the famous English Gardens. It was a beautiful day and it felt so good to exercise. We, of course, stopped somewhere in town and rewarded ourselves with ice cream.
To be continued tomorrow.
<3 Molly
UPDATE:
Wish I really had continued writing about this, because, although you always think you'll remember exactly what happened: you don't...
What I can tell you is the following:
That next week, on Thursday the 23rd, I ended up going to the Oktoberfest (200th Annual!) and meeting Kristen for the first time. She is another girl in my German Master's program. She and I starting talking on Facebook and then decided to get together after we bot found out we were in Munich at the same time. So we both put on our dirndls, and I added one of those gingerbread hearts to my outfit, and we met at the train station. We went to a beer tent first, where I ordered a beer and lemonade. It was so ridiculously expensive-about 15 Euros total-for my drinks. I couldn't even finish them because they were so large! After she and I got acquainted we decided to go on a few rides, including the ferris wheel, where we enjoyed a beautiful view of the city. When we were done with that we decided to go out for ice cream. Having lived in Munich she had friends who owned a shop, and they hooked us up with some delicious free sundaes :-). Another night that week Kristen and I went to visit her friends that she had met when she worked as a missionary in Munich, and on another night we went to the movies to see: Groupies Bleiben nicht zum Frühstück.
On Sunday the 26th Uwe took the kids and me to Schloss Nymphenburg, where we took a walk and enjoyed the scenery. It was a truly beautiful place to be. :-)
On Wednesday the 29th I went to the top of the Olympic Tower to see a view of the stadium and the rest of the city. I also enjoyed a crepe at a nearby crepe stand, an then went ahead and splurged on a Hop on Hop Off tour of the city.
On the 30th, my last day in Munich, Susanne and I organized a girls night that also included Christine and Nancy. Christine and I met up early for dinner and then met the others at the movies. There we had a few drinks before going in to see Eat Pray Love. The movie was okay but wasn't as good as we had hoped-and a bit too long for my taste. However, I enjoyed the evening very much and was happy to see everyone.
On October 1 Susanne kindly drove me to the train station, and I headed into what I felt like was the unknown. Luckily my friend Kerstin, who studies nearby, picked me up at the train station in Salzburg. She helped me check into my room and find the restaurant where I was to meet the rest of the group. I am forever grateful to her for that. I would've gotten so lost without her.
That weekend involved me feeling not too great, so I didn't do a whole lot. On Saturday I did go with Susanne and her family to a Trachten outlet (an outlet for traditional Bavarian clothes) where I bought my pink Dirndl. On Sunday I was feeling better, so Susanne, her son, Frederic, and I went on a 10 km bike ride through the famous English Gardens. It was a beautiful day and it felt so good to exercise. We, of course, stopped somewhere in town and rewarded ourselves with ice cream.
To be continued tomorrow.
<3 Molly
UPDATE:
Wish I really had continued writing about this, because, although you always think you'll remember exactly what happened: you don't...
What I can tell you is the following:
That next week, on Thursday the 23rd, I ended up going to the Oktoberfest (200th Annual!) and meeting Kristen for the first time. She is another girl in my German Master's program. She and I starting talking on Facebook and then decided to get together after we bot found out we were in Munich at the same time. So we both put on our dirndls, and I added one of those gingerbread hearts to my outfit, and we met at the train station. We went to a beer tent first, where I ordered a beer and lemonade. It was so ridiculously expensive-about 15 Euros total-for my drinks. I couldn't even finish them because they were so large! After she and I got acquainted we decided to go on a few rides, including the ferris wheel, where we enjoyed a beautiful view of the city. When we were done with that we decided to go out for ice cream. Having lived in Munich she had friends who owned a shop, and they hooked us up with some delicious free sundaes :-). Another night that week Kristen and I went to visit her friends that she had met when she worked as a missionary in Munich, and on another night we went to the movies to see: Groupies Bleiben nicht zum Frühstück.
On Sunday the 26th Uwe took the kids and me to Schloss Nymphenburg, where we took a walk and enjoyed the scenery. It was a truly beautiful place to be. :-)
On Wednesday the 29th I went to the top of the Olympic Tower to see a view of the stadium and the rest of the city. I also enjoyed a crepe at a nearby crepe stand, an then went ahead and splurged on a Hop on Hop Off tour of the city.
On the 30th, my last day in Munich, Susanne and I organized a girls night that also included Christine and Nancy. Christine and I met up early for dinner and then met the others at the movies. There we had a few drinks before going in to see Eat Pray Love. The movie was okay but wasn't as good as we had hoped-and a bit too long for my taste. However, I enjoyed the evening very much and was happy to see everyone.
On October 1 Susanne kindly drove me to the train station, and I headed into what I felt like was the unknown. Luckily my friend Kerstin, who studies nearby, picked me up at the train station in Salzburg. She helped me check into my room and find the restaurant where I was to meet the rest of the group. I am forever grateful to her for that. I would've gotten so lost without her.
the Netherlands
**That's Korfball, a Dutch game using a ball that looks like a soccer ball, but is actually a bit lighter. It also is played like basketball, but on grass.**
After leaving Christine and her family behind, I headed to the Netherlands for a long weekend at Marlies' place. She picked me up at the train station and brought me to her home that she shares with her boyfriend, Robbie. It was a very relaxing weekend and very enjoyable. The first evening we watch 2 and 1/2 Men (which we watched every night, actually). My first full day in the Netherlands we headed to Utrecht, which is in the center of the Netherlands, with Marlies' mother. We spent the day shopping, eating and drinking at cafes, and catching up (I had stayed with Marlies for 2 weeks in August 2009, back when Marlies lived with her parents).
The next day we woke up early because Marlies was coaching a kids Korfball game. So, I ordered a toastie (toasted ham and cheese) and watched this very weird, foreign looking game. That afternoon the weather was beautiful so we went to downtown Dordrecht (the town where Marlies' parents live), to go shopping. I bought some adorable brown boots, that I look at proudly and think about how cool it is that they are from the Netherlands. On Sunday, my final full day in the Netherlands, Marlies and I went to an indoor pool. It was small and not very deep, so we left early and baked the American brownies (imported, and expensive) that I bought at the local supermarket. We didn't pay attention and they ended up burning, but dammit, for the 10 dollars I paid I ate them anyway. In the evening we went to Rotterdam and to the top of the tallest building there, the Euromast. We took cute pictures (even made a personalized postcard to send to my parents), and then left, satisfied that we had seen a nice view of the city. We then headed to Marlies' parents house. Her mom made us hamburgers and fries, and together, with Marlies' mom, dad, and brother, we all watched soccer. It was so funny to see how serious Europeans are about soccer. Her mom was for one team and the rest of the family was for the other, so there was a lot of taunting going on, all in good fun.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Life After the Summer Course
The summer course I attended in Tübingen ended on August 28, at which point I packed my bags and was picked up by Oma (Anke's mom). I spent 4 nights at her place, where I ate, ate, and ate. Lots of delicious Swabian food like Maultaschen and Spätzle, for example. We also spent time with Karin, Oma's daughter (Anke's sister) and her husband when we went to downtown Stuttgart together. 2 days before I left her place I met up with Nicole and her son Finley. I babysat for him when Nicole and her family lived in Royal Oak. It was great seeing them again. Her son is now 4, and totally adorable! :-) After leaving Oma's I went on to Anja and her family. I babysat for her daughter, Ronja, when they lived in West Bloomfield. I spent lots of time relaxing, shopping in Esslingen, and reading books to Ronja. We also met up with lots of their ex-pat friends that had also lived in Detroit. It was so fun to be in Germany talking about things like Great Lakes Crossing. It makes me feel less homesick.
On Monday I left Ronja and her family and headed to Bavaria to visit Christine and her family. Again, I know them from Detroit, where I babysat for their kids (are we seeing a pattern here?). On Monday we went to the playground with the kids and out for ice cream. Yesterday Christine and I went shopping with the kids, and then we saw a movie. At first we were in the Drew Barrymore movie, but it sucked so we switched to the action movie with Sylvester Stallone instead. Again, that sucked. But we had some good laughs, and I don't think the other people in the theater appreciated that, haha.
The night before last I got over 12 hours of sleep-luxury. Today their 2 kittens (10 weeks old), woke me up at 6am!!! They are cute, but I despised them at that moment....
Bye, Molly
On Monday I left Ronja and her family and headed to Bavaria to visit Christine and her family. Again, I know them from Detroit, where I babysat for their kids (are we seeing a pattern here?). On Monday we went to the playground with the kids and out for ice cream. Yesterday Christine and I went shopping with the kids, and then we saw a movie. At first we were in the Drew Barrymore movie, but it sucked so we switched to the action movie with Sylvester Stallone instead. Again, that sucked. But we had some good laughs, and I don't think the other people in the theater appreciated that, haha.
The night before last I got over 12 hours of sleep-luxury. Today their 2 kittens (10 weeks old), woke me up at 6am!!! They are cute, but I despised them at that moment....
Bye, Molly
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Sommerkurs, wird sind von Dir begeistert ;)
Hi All,
The summer course was absolutely amazing, something that I have never experienced before. Think summer camp for German language students, but with better accommodations, amazing Professors, fun activities, and freedom.
On the first day of classes we all met in the same room for the placement exam. I arrived early, and, seeing as we had 10 minutes to go, I felt stupid sitting alone. So I turned to the girl behind me and asked if I could sit with her. The rest is history. Tanja, a 20-year-old from Russia and I ended up in the same class. We also, coinicdentally, lived in the same building, despite the fact that the 180 students in the program were spread out throughout the city. Another friendship that was meant to be.
I can't tell you how amazing it was to be around students from all over the world who have the same interests as me. They love German music, food, culture...It was so easy to make friends and start up conversations. There wasn't that "Why are you studying German?" question, the one I get back home.
During the day, we had 3 hours of class with a half an hour break after the first 1 1/2 hour segment. After a 1 1/2 hour break for lunch, during which Tanja and I would go shopping and end up a few minutes late to the last half of the day, we ended the academic part of the day in tutorium, where our student teacher would lead us in fun activities, some of the most memorable being Jeapardy, a game that the Icelandic couple were amazing at, and Taboo in German.
The evenings included lectures that were not required, but were well-attended. I attended what was most interesting to me, including: German Music, German for Native Speakers of English, Germany after the Fall of the Wall, Studying in Germany, German Pronunciation, etc. These were 1 1/2 lectures lead by professors that had been invited by the program.
There were also field trips. I participated in a hike to a local Closter and in our class trip to the Ritter Sport Museum & also to the Alltagsmuseum (like a mini Henry Ford Museum). The Alltagsmuseum was having an apron exhibit. It was really cool to see aprons throughout the ages. They even displayed one for children from the late 30s that had "Heil Hitler" on it. It is a part of history, and we need to be reminded of that. Although history is repeating itself. War in Iraq? But I digress...
In the evenings there was always something to do. I was able to go to the local beer garden overlooking the Neckar river with friends and drink wine mixed with soda water, or beer mixed with lemonade. I saw Toy Story 3d, went to a local disco, drank wine on the church steps. I drank cocktails during happy hour with Angi or with Tanja, I ate at cafes, ate ice cream on the bank overlooking the Neckar, I walked along cobblestone streets and bought postcards to send back home. Just.plain.amazing.
In addition to all of these things I participated in the Summer Choir, which was really fun. I was able to combine my 2 loves: German and Singing! We met once a week for a couple of hours and sang, and then performed at our Summer Course party the week before the course ended.
Oh yes, the Summer Course Party. There was a huge raffle, and I won a scholarship to attend the Summer Course next year! I am so thankful, so excited. I don't know if I'll ever want to leave here. I really do hope I can live in Germany!!!!
On Friday, August 28, my class met for breakfast to mark the end of the summer course. In the afternoon, after having packed up my things, all 180 students met in one room for the goodbye speeches, after which we all received a balloon and an address card. We were to write our addresses on the cards and attach them to the balloons, and then we all walked out into the field and let them all go at the same time. I was nervous at the beginning of this experience. I needn't have been. I loved it. It was magical, a dream world where all of the people around me share my interests in German, travel, and a love of culture.
<3 Molly
The summer course was absolutely amazing, something that I have never experienced before. Think summer camp for German language students, but with better accommodations, amazing Professors, fun activities, and freedom.
On the first day of classes we all met in the same room for the placement exam. I arrived early, and, seeing as we had 10 minutes to go, I felt stupid sitting alone. So I turned to the girl behind me and asked if I could sit with her. The rest is history. Tanja, a 20-year-old from Russia and I ended up in the same class. We also, coinicdentally, lived in the same building, despite the fact that the 180 students in the program were spread out throughout the city. Another friendship that was meant to be.
I can't tell you how amazing it was to be around students from all over the world who have the same interests as me. They love German music, food, culture...It was so easy to make friends and start up conversations. There wasn't that "Why are you studying German?" question, the one I get back home.
During the day, we had 3 hours of class with a half an hour break after the first 1 1/2 hour segment. After a 1 1/2 hour break for lunch, during which Tanja and I would go shopping and end up a few minutes late to the last half of the day, we ended the academic part of the day in tutorium, where our student teacher would lead us in fun activities, some of the most memorable being Jeapardy, a game that the Icelandic couple were amazing at, and Taboo in German.
The evenings included lectures that were not required, but were well-attended. I attended what was most interesting to me, including: German Music, German for Native Speakers of English, Germany after the Fall of the Wall, Studying in Germany, German Pronunciation, etc. These were 1 1/2 lectures lead by professors that had been invited by the program.
There were also field trips. I participated in a hike to a local Closter and in our class trip to the Ritter Sport Museum & also to the Alltagsmuseum (like a mini Henry Ford Museum). The Alltagsmuseum was having an apron exhibit. It was really cool to see aprons throughout the ages. They even displayed one for children from the late 30s that had "Heil Hitler" on it. It is a part of history, and we need to be reminded of that. Although history is repeating itself. War in Iraq? But I digress...
In the evenings there was always something to do. I was able to go to the local beer garden overlooking the Neckar river with friends and drink wine mixed with soda water, or beer mixed with lemonade. I saw Toy Story 3d, went to a local disco, drank wine on the church steps. I drank cocktails during happy hour with Angi or with Tanja, I ate at cafes, ate ice cream on the bank overlooking the Neckar, I walked along cobblestone streets and bought postcards to send back home. Just.plain.amazing.
In addition to all of these things I participated in the Summer Choir, which was really fun. I was able to combine my 2 loves: German and Singing! We met once a week for a couple of hours and sang, and then performed at our Summer Course party the week before the course ended.
Oh yes, the Summer Course Party. There was a huge raffle, and I won a scholarship to attend the Summer Course next year! I am so thankful, so excited. I don't know if I'll ever want to leave here. I really do hope I can live in Germany!!!!
On Friday, August 28, my class met for breakfast to mark the end of the summer course. In the afternoon, after having packed up my things, all 180 students met in one room for the goodbye speeches, after which we all received a balloon and an address card. We were to write our addresses on the cards and attach them to the balloons, and then we all walked out into the field and let them all go at the same time. I was nervous at the beginning of this experience. I needn't have been. I loved it. It was magical, a dream world where all of the people around me share my interests in German, travel, and a love of culture.
<3 Molly
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Tuebingen...continued.
On Tuesday oral and written exams were given to all of the students to gauge our levels of German. I placed very high and picked a class called "German for College Students." On Tuesday night there was a party to celebrate the beginning of the course. There I met lots of nice people, ate good German food, and drank champagne :-)
On Wednesday the first official day of class started. I made a few friends right a way. Tanja, a girl from Russia and I, have been friends since that day. In the evening I went to the international summer choir. There I met more international students that love singing, and learned lots of singing vocabulary in German. It was fun to sing again--haven't in a while! After singing I met up with Tanja and some others. From there we went to a beer garden. We ate giant soft prezels, drank beer, and enjoyed each other's company, all while enjoying the beautiful view of the Neckar river.
On Thursday I went to class, followed by a movie night in the evening. We watched a German movie that was a parody of the media, and how the heads of these television stations want us to watch crappy reality shows instead of things with substance. It really made me think. After that I met up with some others at the bar in our dorm. I drank a sex on the beach that had a ridiculous amount of alcohol, and was drunk enough to stand up and dance with Tanja. Good times.
On Friday I had class, and then went out on a small boat on the Neckar with the other students. At night we went to a cafe, but Tanja and I left early since we weren't feeling well. Yesterday Tanja and I went to the Altstadt. We ate at an Italian restaurant overlooking the Neckar. I ate carbonara-yum!!! Then we went shopping :) At night I met up with a German girl (a friend of a friend) at the movies. We saw Eclipse in German, which was weird because the actors voices are different.
Today the entire summer academy hiked to a cloister, and then had a picnic. It rained, but luckily one of the teachers loaned me her coat and an umbrella. The hike back was like 5km--I wanted to die!!! Ahh well--it means I won't feel guilty when I have a drink at the bar tonight.
Bye for now, Molly
On Wednesday the first official day of class started. I made a few friends right a way. Tanja, a girl from Russia and I, have been friends since that day. In the evening I went to the international summer choir. There I met more international students that love singing, and learned lots of singing vocabulary in German. It was fun to sing again--haven't in a while! After singing I met up with Tanja and some others. From there we went to a beer garden. We ate giant soft prezels, drank beer, and enjoyed each other's company, all while enjoying the beautiful view of the Neckar river.
On Thursday I went to class, followed by a movie night in the evening. We watched a German movie that was a parody of the media, and how the heads of these television stations want us to watch crappy reality shows instead of things with substance. It really made me think. After that I met up with some others at the bar in our dorm. I drank a sex on the beach that had a ridiculous amount of alcohol, and was drunk enough to stand up and dance with Tanja. Good times.
On Friday I had class, and then went out on a small boat on the Neckar with the other students. At night we went to a cafe, but Tanja and I left early since we weren't feeling well. Yesterday Tanja and I went to the Altstadt. We ate at an Italian restaurant overlooking the Neckar. I ate carbonara-yum!!! Then we went shopping :) At night I met up with a German girl (a friend of a friend) at the movies. We saw Eclipse in German, which was weird because the actors voices are different.
Today the entire summer academy hiked to a cloister, and then had a picnic. It rained, but luckily one of the teachers loaned me her coat and an umbrella. The hike back was like 5km--I wanted to die!!! Ahh well--it means I won't feel guilty when I have a drink at the bar tonight.
Bye for now, Molly
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Welcome to Tuebingen~!
Hello All,
I have not updated in a while. Things have gotten busier. July 26-31 I enjoyed my last week in Lower Saxony with Frauke, Ralf, and the kids. That Monday was particularly exciting, as Chris and Katharina, two friends of mine, came to visit. Together we walked to Hahnenklee and then drove to Goslar. We ate kaesespaetzle, climbed a church clock tower, and walked around the city. Then we headed back to Ralf and Frauke's so that I could introduce them and so that they could meet the kids. After that it started raining, so we went to the Wassertretbecken. It's this tub outside with really cold water in it that is supposed to be good for your circulation. I went in several times and nearly died. It was so cold it hurt! That night we went out to eat at a pizzeria and then Katharina, Chris, and I said our goodbyes. Was really fun.
The next day the family was out and about. I woke up to find a purse in the kitchen with my name on it. Lea's mom had made it for me!! So sweet. She's really talented. Then Lea, the 7-year-old, came over wanting to hang out. She and I went to Hahnenklee and sat at a cafe and ate ice cream. She is adorable! Then we skyped with my mom, which was funny since my mom can only speak English and she can only speak German. But I translated, and all was right with the world.
On Wednesday I went with Ralf, Frauke, and the kids to Goslar for shopping. There I got my hair done in Germany for the first time. I was afraid of having to explain what I wanted to in German, but everything turned out fine. On Thursday Frauke and I took the kids to a Fairly Tale park, but it was expensive and it sucked. On Friday I packed, and on Saturday I said my tearful goodbyes.
On Saturday evening I arrived in Tuebingen. Angi picked me up at the bus station, and then we went back to her place. There we ate dinner with her friends, including an exchange student from Scotland. Was very fun. On Sunday I relaxed and then we all ate dinner together again, and then went out for ice cream. We ate our ice cream on a ledge overlooking the neckar river where all of the students sit. Was beautiful. On Monday Angi and I went to get info about my langauge course and then the program workers took us to my room. After that Angi and I went to Oma's, my friend's grandma who is like my grandma, where we ate cake and talked. :-) On Monday night, after watching crazy you tube videos, Angi drove me back to my place where I spent my first night in my new room.
*To be continued.*
I have not updated in a while. Things have gotten busier. July 26-31 I enjoyed my last week in Lower Saxony with Frauke, Ralf, and the kids. That Monday was particularly exciting, as Chris and Katharina, two friends of mine, came to visit. Together we walked to Hahnenklee and then drove to Goslar. We ate kaesespaetzle, climbed a church clock tower, and walked around the city. Then we headed back to Ralf and Frauke's so that I could introduce them and so that they could meet the kids. After that it started raining, so we went to the Wassertretbecken. It's this tub outside with really cold water in it that is supposed to be good for your circulation. I went in several times and nearly died. It was so cold it hurt! That night we went out to eat at a pizzeria and then Katharina, Chris, and I said our goodbyes. Was really fun.
The next day the family was out and about. I woke up to find a purse in the kitchen with my name on it. Lea's mom had made it for me!! So sweet. She's really talented. Then Lea, the 7-year-old, came over wanting to hang out. She and I went to Hahnenklee and sat at a cafe and ate ice cream. She is adorable! Then we skyped with my mom, which was funny since my mom can only speak English and she can only speak German. But I translated, and all was right with the world.
On Wednesday I went with Ralf, Frauke, and the kids to Goslar for shopping. There I got my hair done in Germany for the first time. I was afraid of having to explain what I wanted to in German, but everything turned out fine. On Thursday Frauke and I took the kids to a Fairly Tale park, but it was expensive and it sucked. On Friday I packed, and on Saturday I said my tearful goodbyes.
On Saturday evening I arrived in Tuebingen. Angi picked me up at the bus station, and then we went back to her place. There we ate dinner with her friends, including an exchange student from Scotland. Was very fun. On Sunday I relaxed and then we all ate dinner together again, and then went out for ice cream. We ate our ice cream on a ledge overlooking the neckar river where all of the students sit. Was beautiful. On Monday Angi and I went to get info about my langauge course and then the program workers took us to my room. After that Angi and I went to Oma's, my friend's grandma who is like my grandma, where we ate cake and talked. :-) On Monday night, after watching crazy you tube videos, Angi drove me back to my place where I spent my first night in my new room.
*To be continued.*
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Weekend ;)
On Friday we took the kids to an indoor playground, as it was raining. It rained so much here last summer, but the weather has actually been amazing this summer. So basically we were willing to suffer through a rainy day :) After the playground Frauke dropped me off in downtown Goslar, where I met up with Saskia, a friend of a friend that I'm interested in getting to know better. She and I went out to dinner. We sat at an outdoor cafe, and I ate kaesespaetzle (noodles with cheese) and drank an Alster, beer mixed with lemonade. We had a nice chat, then went and ate ice cream and went shopping. I'd love to buy everything in S. Oliver, but I only bought a couple of sale items. I have a whole year here and I can't spend too much at the very beginning!
On Saturday (yesterday) I went with Frauke and her family, and her friend to a open house at the local fire station. It was perfect for the kids. They were allowed to talk with real firefighters, there were demonstrations on fire safety, and great activities for kids. Thies, their 6-year-old, was able to climb up on top of one of their trucks, and also to drive an excavator with one of the workers. It was adorable to watch. He looked so proud. Yesterday afternoon more of Frauke's friends arrived, and that meant drinking coffee and eating cake-I was happy to oblige. I ate a chocolate and cherry cake with a bit of rum in it, which was as delicious as it sounds.
Yesterday evening I chatted with a girl that is going to be studying abroad through Bowling Green in Austria as well. She and I had already planned on traveling together, we just hadn't made any definite plans yet. I spontaneously asked her if she was free for a few days at the end of September, as I want to go to Sweden. We looked up tickets, found some for 42 Euro a piece round trip (only 58 dollars total for a round-trip ticket!), and voila, we bought the tickets right away. So I'm off to Stockholm, Sweden in September!!! I cannot wait. That has always been a country that has been on the top of my list. I looked up youth hostels yesterday, and if we stay in a room with about 10 other people, we can keep our accommodation costs to a minimum.
Ahh cheap travel. Did I mention I love Europe??!
<3 Molly
On Saturday (yesterday) I went with Frauke and her family, and her friend to a open house at the local fire station. It was perfect for the kids. They were allowed to talk with real firefighters, there were demonstrations on fire safety, and great activities for kids. Thies, their 6-year-old, was able to climb up on top of one of their trucks, and also to drive an excavator with one of the workers. It was adorable to watch. He looked so proud. Yesterday afternoon more of Frauke's friends arrived, and that meant drinking coffee and eating cake-I was happy to oblige. I ate a chocolate and cherry cake with a bit of rum in it, which was as delicious as it sounds.
Yesterday evening I chatted with a girl that is going to be studying abroad through Bowling Green in Austria as well. She and I had already planned on traveling together, we just hadn't made any definite plans yet. I spontaneously asked her if she was free for a few days at the end of September, as I want to go to Sweden. We looked up tickets, found some for 42 Euro a piece round trip (only 58 dollars total for a round-trip ticket!), and voila, we bought the tickets right away. So I'm off to Stockholm, Sweden in September!!! I cannot wait. That has always been a country that has been on the top of my list. I looked up youth hostels yesterday, and if we stay in a room with about 10 other people, we can keep our accommodation costs to a minimum.
Ahh cheap travel. Did I mention I love Europe??!
<3 Molly
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Funny ;)
Michigan News Headline
"Flasher Reported Along Huron River
Reports of a man emerging from brush along the river in the buff have been coming in"
--I read it and laughed. If that were a federally offense in Germany nearly the entire country would be arrested. When I swim at the pond in Hahnenklee I normally see someone naked there every day.
Cultural differences are amusing...
"Flasher Reported Along Huron River
Reports of a man emerging from brush along the river in the buff have been coming in"
--I read it and laughed. If that were a federally offense in Germany nearly the entire country would be arrested. When I swim at the pond in Hahnenklee I normally see someone naked there every day.
Cultural differences are amusing...
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
A little of this, a little of that...
On Sunday Ralf's(the father of the children that I babysit for) parents came for a visit. Ralf's sister and her family came to visit as well. It was nice, I spent some time speaking with her 15-year-old daughter. We spoke German with each other but she can speak English, as she studies it in school. We all went to the pond together to go swimming, which was nice. We swam for a really long time so I was definitely exhausted by the end.
Yesterday we went to the pond with Ralf's mother, and last evening we ate outside at the hotel restaurant across the street from us. I had one Alster (a German drink that is half beer, half lemonade), and was drunk/happy for 2 hours after. I cannot believe how low my alcohol tolerance has become. I've always been a cheap date, but that was pathetic...
Today we took the bus to downtown Goslar with the kids. I bought a German magazine, ate delicious Italian gelatto, and tried not to buy anything more. Money is definitely tight and I have to keep costs to a minimum until I find some sort of a job out here (probably just babysitting or tutoring). When I think of all of the things I still have to pay for: bedding, residency permit, health insurance...I about have a heart attack. Let's hope some sort of a job opportunity presents itself!
Bye, Molly
Yesterday we went to the pond with Ralf's mother, and last evening we ate outside at the hotel restaurant across the street from us. I had one Alster (a German drink that is half beer, half lemonade), and was drunk/happy for 2 hours after. I cannot believe how low my alcohol tolerance has become. I've always been a cheap date, but that was pathetic...
Today we took the bus to downtown Goslar with the kids. I bought a German magazine, ate delicious Italian gelatto, and tried not to buy anything more. Money is definitely tight and I have to keep costs to a minimum until I find some sort of a job out here (probably just babysitting or tutoring). When I think of all of the things I still have to pay for: bedding, residency permit, health insurance...I about have a heart attack. Let's hope some sort of a job opportunity presents itself!
Bye, Molly
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Hannover
Today I took the train to meet Chris (a former exchange student at my university in Michigan) in Hannover. He and I visited his friend Dennis, and then eventually met up with Imke (another one of the former exchange students)! I didn't know she was coming until today, so that was pretty exciting. It was nice to be reunited with 2 of my favorite German exchange students that studied at Oakland University :-)
We walked around the city, shopped, and went to the top of the Rathaus (city hall). There we saw a beautiful view of the city. Towards the end of our day I did manage to finally eat mint chocolate chip ice cream. Yum.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Just being a role model...
This is a picture of Lea and I after we swam in the pond yesterday. ;)
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Lea, our 7-year-old neighbor, is absolutely adorable. I have previously spent time with her and her mother, Anette, at the public pool, as well as on the day that I went with them to the technical university that Anette works at. Today I was invited for dinner for steak and pepper and wiener schnitzel. Lea was adorable, showing off a bit for me. She's a sweetheart, and tomorrow I've invited her over for a girls night. We're going to watch a movie and eat junk food. ;)
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
It's new, yet old...
Today we went to downtown Goslar and went on the Bimmelbahn, a small train that shows you around the city. We saw many different sites, including the NEWEST church in Goslar. Incidentally, this piece of architecture was built in 1186. Normally when I think of old, I think of my former high school, which was built in the 1950s...Funny how my perspective on antiquity has changed.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Wine and Pond Swimming....
Beautiful scenery, delicious wine, a wonderful pond with just the right water temperature, and good company :-)
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Today was hotter than hell, per usual...so we went to the pond with a Dutch family that has a summer house down the street. It was very fun. The pond water temperature was just right, and incredibly refreshing. I swam around for a long time, taking in the beautiful scenery. When I was done, I had coffee, and then 2 glasses of wine, while speaking with the Dutch family. We switched from German to English quite often, which got very confusing, but also amusing :-)
Sunday, July 11, 2010
It's a cultural thing...
This past week has been the same. Helping with the kids, eating good German bread, the usual. I don't need to go into detail about every single moment of every single day. It is often tedious, and boring.
Instead I would like to share with you what has been weighing on my mind. Cultural differences. It has been sweltering hot this past week (due in part to global warming, no doubt), and although we did go to the public pool a few times, on Saturday I needed to get some shopping done. So I headed out on my own and took the bus into town. It was hotter than it is in the little village I'm staying in, to be sure. I had thought, however, that some of the stores would have air conditioning on-and I was correct, they did. But it was on so low it didn't do a hell of a lot of good-especially since the stores were more crowded than I had anticipated.
So, instead of enjoying a relaxing day of site-seeing and shopping, I chose to buy everything as quickly as possible. Upon doing so, I then decided to try and sit down outside at an outdoor cafe. I had thought sitting under one of those giant umbrellas, reading and drinking an Eis-Schokolade would be well worth putting up with the heat. It was nice, for about five minutes. I quickly paid and took the next bus back home.
As I sat in my basement room, nice and cool, I started to think more and more about cultural differences. Why don't Germans use air conditioning? Why do they leave their doors and windows open (without screens, mind you) and let bugs in? Why do they drink that horrible bubbly water? Why is the service at restaurants so bad? And then I realized, due to the heat, that I was thinking of everything wrong with the country I am currently in instead of everything that is right about it. I walk everywhere here, and when the distance is too far, I use the excellent public transportation. They have the best Italian ice cream, amazing bread, and the yogurt with chocolate balls that I love so much. They have adorable postcards and stationary, trendy clothes from H&M, S. Oliver, and Esprit. They have beautiful greenery everywhere, open-air markets, and pedestrian only shopping zones. *It's all in the way you look at things.*
:) Bye, Molly
Instead I would like to share with you what has been weighing on my mind. Cultural differences. It has been sweltering hot this past week (due in part to global warming, no doubt), and although we did go to the public pool a few times, on Saturday I needed to get some shopping done. So I headed out on my own and took the bus into town. It was hotter than it is in the little village I'm staying in, to be sure. I had thought, however, that some of the stores would have air conditioning on-and I was correct, they did. But it was on so low it didn't do a hell of a lot of good-especially since the stores were more crowded than I had anticipated.
So, instead of enjoying a relaxing day of site-seeing and shopping, I chose to buy everything as quickly as possible. Upon doing so, I then decided to try and sit down outside at an outdoor cafe. I had thought sitting under one of those giant umbrellas, reading and drinking an Eis-Schokolade would be well worth putting up with the heat. It was nice, for about five minutes. I quickly paid and took the next bus back home.
As I sat in my basement room, nice and cool, I started to think more and more about cultural differences. Why don't Germans use air conditioning? Why do they leave their doors and windows open (without screens, mind you) and let bugs in? Why do they drink that horrible bubbly water? Why is the service at restaurants so bad? And then I realized, due to the heat, that I was thinking of everything wrong with the country I am currently in instead of everything that is right about it. I walk everywhere here, and when the distance is too far, I use the excellent public transportation. They have the best Italian ice cream, amazing bread, and the yogurt with chocolate balls that I love so much. They have adorable postcards and stationary, trendy clothes from H&M, S. Oliver, and Esprit. They have beautiful greenery everywhere, open-air markets, and pedestrian only shopping zones. *It's all in the way you look at things.*
:) Bye, Molly
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
An Awesome Weekend in Oldenburg
On Friday I took the train to Oldenburg to visit all of the wonderful exchanged students that studied at my University :-) On the first train there was no air-conditioning. That definitely sucked!! Luckily on the next one they had it. When I arrived at the train station, Chris and Claudia were there to greet me. I hadn't seen Claudia in a whole year, so it was great to see her again. We drove to Katharina's place together, where we grilled out and enjoyed sharing some interesting stories.
The next day Claudi and Chris showed me around their University. It's really cool, and I am wishing that I had taken advantage of the exchange program that Oakland had with Oldenburg :/ Who knows, maybe I will live there someday. Anyway, it was very hot out, so we went to the public pool afterwards to cool off. Later we met up with Tobi and Katharina in downtown Oldenburg, where we shopped and then went to a cafe. At the cafe we watched a public viewing of the soccer game where Germany won 4:0 against Argentina! Was so exciting! :) Lots of screaming, parties in the streets, German flags everywhere (you never see that normally, just during the World Cup), people opening beers, police driving around trying to make sure people weren't taking it too far. It was exciting-something that I had never seen before. There was definitely excitement in the air.
That evening we all went to a restaurant for dinner. Afterwards we started running, in the rain, to our car. After saying farewell to Tobi, who had ridden his bike to meet us, we realized we had forgotten Katharina! She had said she was going to the bathroom--I guess we had all forgotten. None of us wanted to go back and get her because it was raining, so Chris was about to call her--luckily she found us right away, so he didn't have to. Haha.
On Sunday I took the train back "home," which involved 3 hours of sitting and waiting. When I got back I helped with the kids a little bit, and on Monday it was more of the same. We did walk into town and get some ice cream. My favorite place to get ice cream in town went out of business, so now we go to another place. But they don't have mint chocolate chip :/
Today I went with our neighbor, Anette, to the university that she works at nearby. Her 7-year-old daughter, whose summer vacation just started, also went with us. Anette showed me around the University, which was small but nice. I also attended a business course, which was interesting at the beginning but VERY boring at the end when they started doing math problems. He could have been speaking in English and I still wouldn't have understood a word he said! Anyway, after that Anette took her daughter and me to the cafeteria there where the students eat. We ate there, which was cool since it was my first time eating in a "Mensa" in Germany. The cafeteria was bigger than the one at Oakland University in Michigan. When we were finished we went to the town there and ate ice cream and went shopping. It was a fun 1/2 day :-)
The rest of the day has been helping with the kids, which is always an experience. I love them to death though :-)
Now that we're all up to date I think I'll relax.
Bye! Love, Molly
The next day Claudi and Chris showed me around their University. It's really cool, and I am wishing that I had taken advantage of the exchange program that Oakland had with Oldenburg :/ Who knows, maybe I will live there someday. Anyway, it was very hot out, so we went to the public pool afterwards to cool off. Later we met up with Tobi and Katharina in downtown Oldenburg, where we shopped and then went to a cafe. At the cafe we watched a public viewing of the soccer game where Germany won 4:0 against Argentina! Was so exciting! :) Lots of screaming, parties in the streets, German flags everywhere (you never see that normally, just during the World Cup), people opening beers, police driving around trying to make sure people weren't taking it too far. It was exciting-something that I had never seen before. There was definitely excitement in the air.
That evening we all went to a restaurant for dinner. Afterwards we started running, in the rain, to our car. After saying farewell to Tobi, who had ridden his bike to meet us, we realized we had forgotten Katharina! She had said she was going to the bathroom--I guess we had all forgotten. None of us wanted to go back and get her because it was raining, so Chris was about to call her--luckily she found us right away, so he didn't have to. Haha.
On Sunday I took the train back "home," which involved 3 hours of sitting and waiting. When I got back I helped with the kids a little bit, and on Monday it was more of the same. We did walk into town and get some ice cream. My favorite place to get ice cream in town went out of business, so now we go to another place. But they don't have mint chocolate chip :/
Today I went with our neighbor, Anette, to the university that she works at nearby. Her 7-year-old daughter, whose summer vacation just started, also went with us. Anette showed me around the University, which was small but nice. I also attended a business course, which was interesting at the beginning but VERY boring at the end when they started doing math problems. He could have been speaking in English and I still wouldn't have understood a word he said! Anyway, after that Anette took her daughter and me to the cafeteria there where the students eat. We ate there, which was cool since it was my first time eating in a "Mensa" in Germany. The cafeteria was bigger than the one at Oakland University in Michigan. When we were finished we went to the town there and ate ice cream and went shopping. It was a fun 1/2 day :-)
The rest of the day has been helping with the kids, which is always an experience. I love them to death though :-)
Now that we're all up to date I think I'll relax.
Bye! Love, Molly
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Thinking from a child's perspective...
Today I woke up a bit earlier than I have this entire week--about 10:30. I need to start getting up earlier, I just can't bring myself to do it. Anyway, this afternoon Frauke took a much-needed break (to work, haha) and I watched the kids for a few hours by myself. I played Guess Who? with Thies, who is 6 years old. A few times at the end of the game I asked him, are you (insert name of person here) and he was like no. And I said the first time, "Thies, I asked you if your person was blonde." And then he responded "Well I didn't know what blonde was." So I showed him different color hair and told him "yellow" hair is blonde, while "white" hair is gray. During our second game there was a similar amount of confusion. He said I had picked the wrong guy, and this time I said, "Thies, that guy's black. I asked you if your guy was black and you said no." Thies responded with, "He is brown. You didn't ask if he was brown." And then I had to explain that we sometimes refer to African Americans as black people, although they are "brown." --Just interesting, I never really thought about it from his perspective. It is quite confusing--
This afternoon Frauke and I took the kids to the park in town. On our way we were going to get ice cream-but our favorite ice-dealer had closed--due to lack of business, I suppose. I was so disappointed. I didn't get to eat ice cream today, although I did have a cookie at the bakery. On the way back to the house, we saw lots of kids playing in the street, some of whom I am familiar with. And there, on the sidewalk, sat 8-year-old Ashley with her 8-month-old sister. I asked Frauke if that was normal here. And she said, no. I do feel bad for the poor girl.
***Tomorrow I am taking the train to Oldenburg to see some of my closest friends. I'm soooo excited!***
More of an update later.
Love, Molly
This afternoon Frauke and I took the kids to the park in town. On our way we were going to get ice cream-but our favorite ice-dealer had closed--due to lack of business, I suppose. I was so disappointed. I didn't get to eat ice cream today, although I did have a cookie at the bakery. On the way back to the house, we saw lots of kids playing in the street, some of whom I am familiar with. And there, on the sidewalk, sat 8-year-old Ashley with her 8-month-old sister. I asked Frauke if that was normal here. And she said, no. I do feel bad for the poor girl.
***Tomorrow I am taking the train to Oldenburg to see some of my closest friends. I'm soooo excited!***
More of an update later.
Love, Molly
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Wouldn't you like to see me try to put a huge soccer goal together??
....well I attempted to help Frauke with that today, and it didn't work. I am so not mechanical. I was kind of hoping Jenna or Luiza would magically appear and help me... haha.
Today when I was playing outside with the kids, the neighbor girl, Ashley, age 8, came over with her 8 month old sister. Over the summer break the young girl watches her baby sister everyday. When asked where her mom was she simply stated, "home." I want to know what kind of person puts an 8 year old in charge of an 8 month old? That's crazy, and dangerous. But I digress...
Did I mention I'm going to Oldenburg this weekend? So excited! <3
Bye, Molly
Today when I was playing outside with the kids, the neighbor girl, Ashley, age 8, came over with her 8 month old sister. Over the summer break the young girl watches her baby sister everyday. When asked where her mom was she simply stated, "home." I want to know what kind of person puts an 8 year old in charge of an 8 month old? That's crazy, and dangerous. But I digress...
Did I mention I'm going to Oldenburg this weekend? So excited! <3
Bye, Molly
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Cultural Differences
Greetings from, Bockswiese, Germany!
I arrived in Bockswiese with the Koster Family on Sunday afternoon, after having flown for 7 1/2 hours and being in a car for 3--all without sleeping. I promptly took a nap and felt refreshed enough to stay up for all of 2 hours before going back to sleep. Jet-lag can kill you...
On Monday I did very little, other than try to get oriented. We went with a neighboring family that the Kosters are friends with to pick up their 7-year-old girl, Lea from elementary school. We walked there, naturally, and when we arrived, I was surprised at what I found. All of the kids were outside playing after school ended, alone. They were waiting for their parents to pick them up, but it was no big deal if their parents weren't there on time. Young kids are capable of being alone on the playground--something my parents generation did, but that this generation didn't grow up with.
I also noticed the size of the kids. None of them were overweight. They were all "thin" by American standards, normal by German standards. These children eat and drink full fat things, they aren't on diets. They simply move more! They walk to school, walk back home, play during the day, and aren't allowed to watch 10 billion hours of television. I don't think they'd really want to. These kids appear to love playing outside.
Today, we took Jan, Thies, Maya and Lea to the park in Hahnenklee. We got them ice cream and watched them play at the park. Then we played with them outside in our backyard. Lea and Ashley, 2 neighbor girls, were at the house as well. I was also surprised to see how fascinated they are with the snacks that I've brought from America. It's so weird to think that they have never heard of Cheez-its or Rainbow Chips Deluxe cookies here. They all think it's so cool that these things come from America, when to me it's just old hat.
**I am in no way saying that all Americans like to watch TV, that they don't exercise, etc. I am just making observations.**
I arrived in Bockswiese with the Koster Family on Sunday afternoon, after having flown for 7 1/2 hours and being in a car for 3--all without sleeping. I promptly took a nap and felt refreshed enough to stay up for all of 2 hours before going back to sleep. Jet-lag can kill you...
On Monday I did very little, other than try to get oriented. We went with a neighboring family that the Kosters are friends with to pick up their 7-year-old girl, Lea from elementary school. We walked there, naturally, and when we arrived, I was surprised at what I found. All of the kids were outside playing after school ended, alone. They were waiting for their parents to pick them up, but it was no big deal if their parents weren't there on time. Young kids are capable of being alone on the playground--something my parents generation did, but that this generation didn't grow up with.
I also noticed the size of the kids. None of them were overweight. They were all "thin" by American standards, normal by German standards. These children eat and drink full fat things, they aren't on diets. They simply move more! They walk to school, walk back home, play during the day, and aren't allowed to watch 10 billion hours of television. I don't think they'd really want to. These kids appear to love playing outside.
Today, we took Jan, Thies, Maya and Lea to the park in Hahnenklee. We got them ice cream and watched them play at the park. Then we played with them outside in our backyard. Lea and Ashley, 2 neighbor girls, were at the house as well. I was also surprised to see how fascinated they are with the snacks that I've brought from America. It's so weird to think that they have never heard of Cheez-its or Rainbow Chips Deluxe cookies here. They all think it's so cool that these things come from America, when to me it's just old hat.
**I am in no way saying that all Americans like to watch TV, that they don't exercise, etc. I am just making observations.**
Thursday, June 24, 2010
2 days...
Today is Thursday, the 24th of June, and it marks two days until I fly to Germany. Preparing for my summers and vacations abroad has never been an easy task, but this time it is all the more difficult. I will be spending a year abroad this time. The question of whether or not I have everything I need is on my mind constantly. Medicine, check. Underwear, check. So I've got the important things. But what about clothes, shoes, and accessories? Not even close. I want to bring my entire wardrobe with me, but I don't want to carry it from train station to train station. I mean, really.... So I will have to sacrifice and just bring the bare essentials. I have a feeling I'm going to be wearing the same 2 t-shirts for an entire year...
And what do I do with the next 2 days? I feel like I should do more than just obsess over whether or not 4 pairs of pants, 2 pairs of shorts and 2 skirts will really suffice for an entire year. I would like to see my friends, maybe go out and do something fun...
Na, I think I'll just sit here and worry. I cannot wait until I am in Germany the first night, lying in bed. Can we just fast forward please?
Until then, Molly
And what do I do with the next 2 days? I feel like I should do more than just obsess over whether or not 4 pairs of pants, 2 pairs of shorts and 2 skirts will really suffice for an entire year. I would like to see my friends, maybe go out and do something fun...
Na, I think I'll just sit here and worry. I cannot wait until I am in Germany the first night, lying in bed. Can we just fast forward please?
Until then, Molly
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Beer halls...
On Friday I spent the day with Susanne and her kids in Munich. That evening we all went out, to a beer hall, with Nancy and her family, Christine and hers...I ate roast beef and drank a radler...it was a good time.
Saturday I bummed around Augsburg with Christine and her family. I ate ice cream, drank chocolate milk, and ate a ton of sandwiches. Last night I got paid (in Euros to babysit. The kids were asleep when I got there. So I got paid to watch TV. Not bad.
Today I'm going to see a kinderfilm with Ingo and the kids while Christine works at the Flohmarkt. Then I will take the train to stay with Susanne. She's driving me to the airport tomorrow morning. This has all gone by so fast!
Bye, Molly
Saturday I bummed around Augsburg with Christine and her family. I ate ice cream, drank chocolate milk, and ate a ton of sandwiches. Last night I got paid (in Euros to babysit. The kids were asleep when I got there. So I got paid to watch TV. Not bad.
Today I'm going to see a kinderfilm with Ingo and the kids while Christine works at the Flohmarkt. Then I will take the train to stay with Susanne. She's driving me to the airport tomorrow morning. This has all gone by so fast!
Bye, Molly
Friday, February 26, 2010
I have amazing directional sense....
Grüss Euch!!!!
Yesterday morning Ingo drove me to downtown Augsburg so I could catch a train to Munich. I of course headed to the bakery first. I consider my hot chocolate and baguette fix to be very important. After arriving on platform 4, there was an announcement saying that the train would be delayed. Surprise, surprise. I didn`t exactly mind it... I must have been on an express train because I arrived in Munich in about 30 minutes. If only that had been the end of my dealing with public transportation for the day...
I was told by Lotte to take the U-bahn to get to her place. All I had to do was go in a specific direction and get off after 2 stops. Of course, I took the train going in the opposite direction and it ended up taking me about 30 minutes before I eventually got to where I was supposed to be. Angi and Lotte were there to greet me, laughing. Funny guys. We ate lunch in Lotte`s WG, and it was truly Bavarian-those large prezels and weisswurst. Yummy! I did add an American twist to it though-ketchup! Don`t kill me...I am somewhat American!
After that we did a bit of walking around downtown Munich. I didn`t buy anything-wasn`t hard, I don`t have much money anyway. Having gotten the shopping bug out of ourselves, we headed to Starbucks. I have never seen a Starbucks so busy! Ok, it was a beautiful day in one of the most touristic cities in the world, but still... I got my usual double chocolate chip frap, but it was pretty damn expensive and in Euros to boot. We felt pretty sophisticated sitting outside, sipping our ridiculously expensive drinks.
We walked around a bit more, then through the English Gardens, and then found ourselves back at Lotte`s place. We had a movie night in her WG. They just got a new TV there, a huge flatscreen, and we wanted to enjoy it. We ended up renting the Departed, and I have to say that is one of the worst movies I`ve ever seen. But add a glass of wine and chocolate to that, and you see everything in a different light. I enjoyed the movie nigh despite the film.
Now I am sitting in Lotte`s room, trying to figure out what I will do with my day. I hope I don`t get lost on the trains today, cross your fingers for me!!!
Bye, Molly
Yesterday morning Ingo drove me to downtown Augsburg so I could catch a train to Munich. I of course headed to the bakery first. I consider my hot chocolate and baguette fix to be very important. After arriving on platform 4, there was an announcement saying that the train would be delayed. Surprise, surprise. I didn`t exactly mind it... I must have been on an express train because I arrived in Munich in about 30 minutes. If only that had been the end of my dealing with public transportation for the day...
I was told by Lotte to take the U-bahn to get to her place. All I had to do was go in a specific direction and get off after 2 stops. Of course, I took the train going in the opposite direction and it ended up taking me about 30 minutes before I eventually got to where I was supposed to be. Angi and Lotte were there to greet me, laughing. Funny guys. We ate lunch in Lotte`s WG, and it was truly Bavarian-those large prezels and weisswurst. Yummy! I did add an American twist to it though-ketchup! Don`t kill me...I am somewhat American!
After that we did a bit of walking around downtown Munich. I didn`t buy anything-wasn`t hard, I don`t have much money anyway. Having gotten the shopping bug out of ourselves, we headed to Starbucks. I have never seen a Starbucks so busy! Ok, it was a beautiful day in one of the most touristic cities in the world, but still... I got my usual double chocolate chip frap, but it was pretty damn expensive and in Euros to boot. We felt pretty sophisticated sitting outside, sipping our ridiculously expensive drinks.
We walked around a bit more, then through the English Gardens, and then found ourselves back at Lotte`s place. We had a movie night in her WG. They just got a new TV there, a huge flatscreen, and we wanted to enjoy it. We ended up renting the Departed, and I have to say that is one of the worst movies I`ve ever seen. But add a glass of wine and chocolate to that, and you see everything in a different light. I enjoyed the movie nigh despite the film.
Now I am sitting in Lotte`s room, trying to figure out what I will do with my day. I hope I don`t get lost on the trains today, cross your fingers for me!!!
Bye, Molly
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Bummeln
Grüß Gott!!! I know I've become so Bavarian...haha. Well anyway--here I sit, in an internet cafe in Dowtown Augsburg, across from the train station. My day started at 7am, ladies and gents...I know, I can hardly believe it myself! However, it has been totally worth it.
I spent my first two hours in the downtown area simply wandering around. I came across beautiful churches, historic buildings, and a religious hospital run strictly by nuns. I am totally and completely fascinated by this beautiful city.
After having wandered around enough, I developed an extreme amount of hunger. Having something from the local bakery just wasn't going to cut it today. When I came across a sign for a fancy Italian restaurant, I decided to splurge. So I went in, sat down, and enjoyed drinking coke out of a wine glass while eating Spaghetti Carbonara and reading the book Dear John. What could be better?? Was worth every cent :)
I have yet to eat an ice cream today, I can't fit it in my stomach just yet, hmmm...maybe I should go walk that pasta off.
Tschüß und bis später, Molly
I spent my first two hours in the downtown area simply wandering around. I came across beautiful churches, historic buildings, and a religious hospital run strictly by nuns. I am totally and completely fascinated by this beautiful city.
After having wandered around enough, I developed an extreme amount of hunger. Having something from the local bakery just wasn't going to cut it today. When I came across a sign for a fancy Italian restaurant, I decided to splurge. So I went in, sat down, and enjoyed drinking coke out of a wine glass while eating Spaghetti Carbonara and reading the book Dear John. What could be better?? Was worth every cent :)
I have yet to eat an ice cream today, I can't fit it in my stomach just yet, hmmm...maybe I should go walk that pasta off.
Tschüß und bis später, Molly
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Movies, Shopping, Ice Cream....ya know :)
Hi All,
Yesterday involved sleeping in late, and going out to the movies with Christine in the evening. We saw the movie An Education, a British art film that was dubbed into German. The idea of the film was cool. Young girl meets older man, older man shows her the world. The film was a dissapointment, however. Not much to it. Could've been a bit deeper. But it was still fun and we had a good time discussing the plot.
Today I slept in late, then Christine and I went shopping which was fun. I bought a few shirts from Esprit and S. Oliver. How I've missed those stores! We also at ice cream...I had stracciatella and after 8 (mint). After that we went to downtown Augsburg and walked around. We ate pflammkuchen for dinner----kind of like pizza, and I have the most delicious hot chocolate ever---nothing like the american kind. This one is made with milk, and they give you a small cookie with it too!
Tomorrow I am hoping to take the train to a random German city alone..I'm pretty excited.
Bye, Molly
Yesterday involved sleeping in late, and going out to the movies with Christine in the evening. We saw the movie An Education, a British art film that was dubbed into German. The idea of the film was cool. Young girl meets older man, older man shows her the world. The film was a dissapointment, however. Not much to it. Could've been a bit deeper. But it was still fun and we had a good time discussing the plot.
Today I slept in late, then Christine and I went shopping which was fun. I bought a few shirts from Esprit and S. Oliver. How I've missed those stores! We also at ice cream...I had stracciatella and after 8 (mint). After that we went to downtown Augsburg and walked around. We ate pflammkuchen for dinner----kind of like pizza, and I have the most delicious hot chocolate ever---nothing like the american kind. This one is made with milk, and they give you a small cookie with it too!
Tomorrow I am hoping to take the train to a random German city alone..I'm pretty excited.
Bye, Molly
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Willkommen in Deutschland
Hello All,
My journey started this past Thursday, when I was dropped off at the airport. The 3 hours I had to wait to fly to Philly were pure torture. I just wanted to get to Germany already! When I did get on that plane to Philly, I nearly had a heart attack when I saw how small the plane was. However, I took a deep breath, sucked it up, and...surprise. It wasn't all that bad.
Upon arriving in Philly, a woman wearing a Harley Davidson tshirt began to talk to me. I'd judged her before she even opened her mouth, but she was actually really nice. I learned that she was traveling to Italy to visit some relatives. She is American but her father is Italian and her mother is German. Interesting who you meet on your way somewhere...
While sitting in the waiting area at the aiport in Philly, I met a German couple with a cute little girl named Ana. The mother's name was Anke. Very weird, since I am close friends with a family that has a mother and child that have the same names. When I got on the plane I was supposed to be sitting next to a large man, but,as luck would have it, there was a whole row free somewhere! It was right behind the German couple with the cute little girl. So, I sat behind them, played with the girl for a while, then tried to sleep. I was laying down, across all 4 seats, and I still couldn't sleep. Talk about the princess and the pea!
When I arrived in Munich, Christine was there to greet me with a big hug, and a brezel. We also stopped off for some starbucks. I wanted iced something...wait what? Not in Germany. I had hot tea instead. We headed to her house and watched Sturm der Liebe, one of those ridiculous soap operas. Was amusing... then we picked up the boys from Kindergarten. I was so excited to see them. From there we headed to Allgaeu, a vacation from my vacation, so to speak. We stayed at a bed and breakfast there. The owners are farmers, so there were cows, chickens, bunnies, etc. It was very cool to see. The beds were comfortable, the view of the mountains was beautiful, and I fell in love with it from the start. It honestly looked unreal.
Today I accompanied the family while they went skiing. I don't ski---shocker---so I stayed at the bottom of the mountain and read and listened to music. Oh did I mention that when I tried to climb up a mini hill I fell on my ass 3 times? Talk about embarrassing. I didn't look anyone in the eye after that. Not that you should do that in Germany anyway---I think it's a sign that somebody wants something from you.
On the way back from Allgaeu we visited Christine's grandma, as there was a birthday party going on for her little cousin there. It was interesting to see more of the German family dynamics. I'm surprised to note that families are nearly the same everywhere. I mean, they all have their cultural differences...ie: German birthday parties involve cake and coffee at about 3---but the kidding around, the laughing, the hugs, the sharing of pictures...is basically universal.
And still, during all of thise, I'm trying to figure out what I want to do this coming year. I think I already know the answer: I have to study in Germany. Not Austria, but Germany. The country that I've fallen in love with.
Back in Augsburg. Time to do some unpacking.
Best, Molly
My journey started this past Thursday, when I was dropped off at the airport. The 3 hours I had to wait to fly to Philly were pure torture. I just wanted to get to Germany already! When I did get on that plane to Philly, I nearly had a heart attack when I saw how small the plane was. However, I took a deep breath, sucked it up, and...surprise. It wasn't all that bad.
Upon arriving in Philly, a woman wearing a Harley Davidson tshirt began to talk to me. I'd judged her before she even opened her mouth, but she was actually really nice. I learned that she was traveling to Italy to visit some relatives. She is American but her father is Italian and her mother is German. Interesting who you meet on your way somewhere...
While sitting in the waiting area at the aiport in Philly, I met a German couple with a cute little girl named Ana. The mother's name was Anke. Very weird, since I am close friends with a family that has a mother and child that have the same names. When I got on the plane I was supposed to be sitting next to a large man, but,as luck would have it, there was a whole row free somewhere! It was right behind the German couple with the cute little girl. So, I sat behind them, played with the girl for a while, then tried to sleep. I was laying down, across all 4 seats, and I still couldn't sleep. Talk about the princess and the pea!
When I arrived in Munich, Christine was there to greet me with a big hug, and a brezel. We also stopped off for some starbucks. I wanted iced something...wait what? Not in Germany. I had hot tea instead. We headed to her house and watched Sturm der Liebe, one of those ridiculous soap operas. Was amusing... then we picked up the boys from Kindergarten. I was so excited to see them. From there we headed to Allgaeu, a vacation from my vacation, so to speak. We stayed at a bed and breakfast there. The owners are farmers, so there were cows, chickens, bunnies, etc. It was very cool to see. The beds were comfortable, the view of the mountains was beautiful, and I fell in love with it from the start. It honestly looked unreal.
Today I accompanied the family while they went skiing. I don't ski---shocker---so I stayed at the bottom of the mountain and read and listened to music. Oh did I mention that when I tried to climb up a mini hill I fell on my ass 3 times? Talk about embarrassing. I didn't look anyone in the eye after that. Not that you should do that in Germany anyway---I think it's a sign that somebody wants something from you.
On the way back from Allgaeu we visited Christine's grandma, as there was a birthday party going on for her little cousin there. It was interesting to see more of the German family dynamics. I'm surprised to note that families are nearly the same everywhere. I mean, they all have their cultural differences...ie: German birthday parties involve cake and coffee at about 3---but the kidding around, the laughing, the hugs, the sharing of pictures...is basically universal.
And still, during all of thise, I'm trying to figure out what I want to do this coming year. I think I already know the answer: I have to study in Germany. Not Austria, but Germany. The country that I've fallen in love with.
Back in Augsburg. Time to do some unpacking.
Best, Molly
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