I've been thinking lately, actually I've kind of been haunted lately by this thought that continues to creep into my blissful and fantasy filled life here in Germany. As we inch toward our one year mark I sometimes feel guilty for all I've been able to experience this year. To me, my life is so much more than I could have ever wished for; why a small town girl like me deserves so many blessings is a mystery to me. I watch the news and to some extent I feel removed from the realities of people suffering in places like Japan and the Middle East. I continue to watch and I'm reminded that we are still at war and my husband, no matter how currently removed, is still a part of that reality.
When I get these feelings of guilt I try to remind myself that it is no accident that we are here in Germany; and it's not an accident that we are so thoroughly enjoying our time here. Yesterday, I was at the playground with my kids and I heard several other military moms complaining about being stationed here. They complained about how expensive it is here, complained about living in a different culture, and talked about how they don't have a desire to explore their new environment. In this moment I realized that Europe is not necessarily everyone's dream come true.
I couldn't even begin to imagine living here and hating it so much, actively counting the weeks, months and years until returning to the States; not this girl. I firmly believe--when life gives you lemons you make lemonade. For me, my European adventure is anything but a basket of lemons. To this small town girl, Europe is like the most decadent piece of chocolate, and I'm CHOOSING to use this chocolate to make a sumptuous cake piled sky high with sweet frosting. I'm determined to make the most of every single second here because I know that life is not a dress rehearsal and even though I've been blessed with so many good days I dare not waste a single one. I know I will eventually awaken from this dream and I will be back home in the country I love and my husband will return to a job filled with sacrifice.
A few weeks ago, my husband mentioned a coworker would be deploying to Afghanistan as soon as they left Germany and returned to the States. That was all my thinking brain needed to hear, a tiny seed was immediately planted and my mind has now settled on the possibility of this reality. As I stand back and watch this military life cycle turn, I see families prepare to leave Germany this summer and the thought of everything that means is very real for me even though I still have two years left. I've also noticed the way I feel when I read my Facebook friend's reports about their husbands and their current and future deployments. I know all too well the emptiness they are trying to fill while their husbands are away and I'm filled with feelings of guilt for living on my three year holiday while they are suffering through deployments. There is a very good chance, that I will meet a similar fate in a few short years when I return to the States, and this is the nightmare that won't leave my mind.
I so wish I could say something that would make me sound honorable and strong, but the truth is I really hate war and hate being without my husband. If and when he comes home and says he's off to Afghanistan, I will understand and not complain because I know it is his turn to go. I also know that no matter how much we don't like being apart, it is his obligation and duty as a Marine; responsibility often comes at a hefty price. But make no mistake about the reality, deployments are a nightmare for military families. For now, I'm going to do my best to lock my fears away and live in the beautiful moment of the present.
I pray for all the service men and women that are in harms way today and the families they leave behind.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Fasching anyone?
I'm not sure how we missed out on the whole Fasching holiday the last time we lived here in Germany. Honestly, I really don't remember it being a big deal, but recently I learned just how little I knew about Fasching and how interesting the holiday celebration is. Last week my daughter's German tennis coach informed me that there would be no tennis for this entire week because of Fasching. In fact, the German schools have holiday for the week as well. Wow, I thought this must be a huge deal because we have never not had tennis for an entire week, except Christmas. My daughter's coach then went on to ask me how we would celebrate Fasching? David looked completely shocked and surprised when I informed him that we had no plans to celebrate the Fasching holiday. He was stunned by my response and went on to ask if my daughter's school would take the holiday off and if my husband had it off from work. This was very amusing to me because of course Americans do not get the week off to celebrate Fasching, but wouldn't it be nice if we did. David then went on to inform me that he would be dressing up as Batman for Fasching, and true to his personality, he then went on to explain who Batman was, thinking maybe I wasn't familiar with this character. Really? Too funny.
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| Waiting for the parade to start |
After my conversation with David we decided we should attend a Fasching parade with the kids, thinking they would probably really enjoy it. We really had no idea what to expect or what it was even all about. As I started looking into the celebration and holiday I learned Fasching is similar to Mardi Gras and Carnival and is centered around the religious holiday of Easter and the upcoming day of Ash Wednesday. I also learned that Fasching means "Fools Parade" and it is celebrated differently depending on the region of Germany. I learned people dress up like witches and wear these AMAZING handmade wooden masks. Fasching has evolved over the years and there are now all sorts of silly costumes, sort of like Halloween in the States. The holiday is celebrated with marching bands and parades, but the tradition remains centered around the witch and elaborate wooden masks.
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| Interesting wood carved mask |
For our first Fasching experience we decided to visit Weil Der Stadt, a nearby medieval town we had not yet had the opportunity to visit, but really wanted to. Weil Der Stadt is a traditional German town in the middle of a beautiful countryside with farms and walking paths surrounding it. On our short drive to Weil der Stadt we saw many horses out in the countryside either being ridden or walked by their owners. It was such a beautiful sight to see on our way to the parade. I love the way Germany has open spaces for all sorts of outdoor things. This is certainly one of my favorite things about Germany; open spaces everywhere where anyone can walk, ride bikes, or even take their horse for a nice stroll. Most cities and towns are connected by these wonderful multipurpose paths.
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| Gypsy Float getting ready for its turn in the Parade |
Markets), I'm always in awe of the way German's celebrate their traditions. There is always some sort of festival or reason to celebrate here in Germany with family and friends. Their strong belief in tradition was evident as I looked at the costumes and wooden masks that seemed to be passed down for generations. As I've attended quite a few European festivals now, I always notice how there are no franchises making a profit at these events, only Mom and Pop (Mutter and Vater to be correct) type businesses serving the standard fair; bratwurst, pizza, donners and of course my personal favorite crepes. Even though it was a cold day, entire families were dressed in vivid costumes with matching wooden masks and everyone that participated in the parade seemed so happy and proud of their town.
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| Chef float, they were actually cooking & handing out food! |
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| Monks passing out beer in the parade |
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| Weil der Stadt town center |
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Amusing Lessons Learned
This is sort of a silly post, however I try to express how I see the world around me and share many of the things I find interesting. One of the many benefits of living overseas is it reminds me to not take life too seriously. There are so many positive rewards to living here in Germany; however, there are also challenges as well. First and foremost, my life here can not be compared to my "normal" life back in the States. The two lives are completely different. For example, my family and I now live on the 3rd floor in a tiny apartment that is less than half the size of my previous home in North Carolina. Our downsized living space presents many problems, specifically regarding the lack of closet space; think hotel room size closet here vice walk-in closet and you'll have an accurate picture of what I am dealing with. Seriously, I knew I was in trouble before our movers came with the majority of my stuff when I unpacked my suitcases and the clothing I had traveled with didn't fit in my new apartment closets. Yikes!! I know I do have a "bit" of clothes but seriously the size of my apartment closets here are ridiculous. Apartment living with our 100lb German Shepherd Lucy has also been a blast. Luckily for me, taking her out is one of the few jobs that doesn't fall under my list of duties. Thank heavens!
Some other small inconveniences that differ from our state-side lives are; the 8 Armed Forces Television channels we are so blessed to receive (slight sarcasm here), the telephone and internet odyssey that took several months to resolve--we didn't have internet or telephone service for our first few months here (that was fun), how gas costs $8 a gallon once we travel outside of Germany (we can buy gas on the Army base here and at Esso stations in Germany at close to state side prices but have to pay local economy prices when traveling anywhere else); how the dollar continues to decline in value against the Euro--it now hovers around .70 US cents for every 1Euro. If you move here and spend too much time thinking about the conversion rate you will never venture out and do anything. It could make you a very tight walleted person, luckily for me I don't have that problem...maybe not so lucky for my husband who always wants to think about the rainy day.
I could go on and and on; however, these are just mild inconveniences and truly for me the rewards of our European vacation far outweigh these tiny hiccups. I guess I've learned to become unattached to the normalcy's of my previously "normal" life. For example, I happily now have the lowest tech cell phone available, my husband and I share one car, & I can't run to the mall, Target or Marshalls for a quick shopping fix (every business is closed in Europe on Sunday) but instead I have to order everything online and wait up to six weeks for the item to arrive. Hopefully I like the item once it does arrive (six weeks later), hopefully it fits, hopefully I still want it. Again, I could go on and on but these inconveniences are all little reminders for me of what really matters and more importantly how little control I have over all of this.
Another blessing about living in Europe is the amusing differences in our cultures. My family and I have learned so many lessons from experiencing these differences. Many times, my husband and I will either start smiling or start laughing out loud at something we find so amusing; I know silly Americans. Sometimes we wish we could take a picture of the funny experience and share it with our friends and family. Actually, truth be told, we once took pictures of complete European strangers at LegoLand because we found them so darn funny, but then we realized we might be mistaken for stalkers or perverts so we decided against future random pictures of strangers.
Europeans have a freeing sense of self when it comes to their bodies. From my last experience living overseas, I remembered the topless women on the beaches. I vividly remember while vacationing in Spain and the Canary Islands, I was the only one on the beach wearing my bikini top. Now, before you get too far ahead of yourself, keep in mind this is much more appealing in fantasy than reality. In reality, not only will you see beautiful Italian women without a top, but you are also guaranteed to see their grandmothers as well. To my husbands displeasure, my bikini top stayed firmly tied, however I felt liberated by these woman's acceptance of themselves and their bodies and the whole experience made me feel more beautiful in my own skin. Europeans aren't as concerned with hiding their imperfections; conversely they seem to embrace the beauty of their bodies no matter their age, size or shape.
Europeans willingness to drop their clothing in public has caused many a smirk or chuckle in my household. Silly Americans. While living in Frankfurt (last time we were here), we lived right next to a public park deemed "the naked guy park" by the many Americans in our neighborhood because of all the naked guys who would drop their clothes and lounge in the park whenever the temperature broke 70 degrees; amusing and liberating at the same time. I've encountered many European adults who insist on changing their clothes in public and have absolutely no qualms about doing so right in front of you, your children or anybody else for that matter. Recently a middle aged woman took us completely by surprise when she stripped down to her undies and changed into her softball outfit right in front of us. Hello!
However, my all-time favorite (so far) is our experience at LegoLand. We visited the park on a relatively hot (for European standards) day and were totally taken aback by the sights we saw. If you've ever been to LegoLand you know the park has a few water rides. By water rides I mean the potential to get wet exists but isn't guaranteed--think log or rapids rides at any traditional amusement park. Well, the POTENTIAL in Europe has a very different meaning than it does to most Americans--everywhere I looked adults and children alike were systematically changing into their swimsuits before going on the water rides. My husband and I thought--why in the world would you need your swimsuit at an amusement park? The European answer of course is to go on the "water" rides or frolic with their children in the park's many fountains. Silly Americans. Have you ever seen an adult frolicking in a public fountain in their swim suit in the States? Me neither; again amusing and liberating at the same time.
Lastly, it is very common in Europe to experience someone relieving themselves on the side of the road, hopefully facing away from you but maybe not. I used to think it was only the children, but throughout our travels on the autobahn it is just as common to see adults creating a roadside restroom as it is their children. I'm not talking behind bushes here, I literally mean right on the side of the road for the world to see. Moms will literally hold their kids legs up and the kiddos, girls or boys will go right there in front of you. Now, I will freely admit that this is a bit weird for the girl who has public restroom issues, but at the end of the day-- who am I to judge.
I find this all so interesting, because we Americans would never be so comfortable with ourselves as our European friends have demonstrated time and time again. I cannot and will not tell a lie, I do miss the days of lounging in my backyard, swimming in my pool, and enjoying the spaciousness of my North Carolina home, but I have also learned to embrace and appreciate my new European normalcy too. Don't worry, I won't be wearing my swimsuit to LegoLand the next time we visit, and I won't be shedding my bikini top on my next summer vacation and I definitely won't be relieving myself in public on my next road trip. I will however, continue to see each European experience for what it is: a reminder of how cultural differences shouldn't be considered bad, just different and how simple life can truly be.
Some other small inconveniences that differ from our state-side lives are; the 8 Armed Forces Television channels we are so blessed to receive (slight sarcasm here), the telephone and internet odyssey that took several months to resolve--we didn't have internet or telephone service for our first few months here (that was fun), how gas costs $8 a gallon once we travel outside of Germany (we can buy gas on the Army base here and at Esso stations in Germany at close to state side prices but have to pay local economy prices when traveling anywhere else); how the dollar continues to decline in value against the Euro--it now hovers around .70 US cents for every 1Euro. If you move here and spend too much time thinking about the conversion rate you will never venture out and do anything. It could make you a very tight walleted person, luckily for me I don't have that problem...maybe not so lucky for my husband who always wants to think about the rainy day.
I could go on and and on; however, these are just mild inconveniences and truly for me the rewards of our European vacation far outweigh these tiny hiccups. I guess I've learned to become unattached to the normalcy's of my previously "normal" life. For example, I happily now have the lowest tech cell phone available, my husband and I share one car, & I can't run to the mall, Target or Marshalls for a quick shopping fix (every business is closed in Europe on Sunday) but instead I have to order everything online and wait up to six weeks for the item to arrive. Hopefully I like the item once it does arrive (six weeks later), hopefully it fits, hopefully I still want it. Again, I could go on and on but these inconveniences are all little reminders for me of what really matters and more importantly how little control I have over all of this.
Another blessing about living in Europe is the amusing differences in our cultures. My family and I have learned so many lessons from experiencing these differences. Many times, my husband and I will either start smiling or start laughing out loud at something we find so amusing; I know silly Americans. Sometimes we wish we could take a picture of the funny experience and share it with our friends and family. Actually, truth be told, we once took pictures of complete European strangers at LegoLand because we found them so darn funny, but then we realized we might be mistaken for stalkers or perverts so we decided against future random pictures of strangers.
Europeans have a freeing sense of self when it comes to their bodies. From my last experience living overseas, I remembered the topless women on the beaches. I vividly remember while vacationing in Spain and the Canary Islands, I was the only one on the beach wearing my bikini top. Now, before you get too far ahead of yourself, keep in mind this is much more appealing in fantasy than reality. In reality, not only will you see beautiful Italian women without a top, but you are also guaranteed to see their grandmothers as well. To my husbands displeasure, my bikini top stayed firmly tied, however I felt liberated by these woman's acceptance of themselves and their bodies and the whole experience made me feel more beautiful in my own skin. Europeans aren't as concerned with hiding their imperfections; conversely they seem to embrace the beauty of their bodies no matter their age, size or shape.
Europeans willingness to drop their clothing in public has caused many a smirk or chuckle in my household. Silly Americans. While living in Frankfurt (last time we were here), we lived right next to a public park deemed "the naked guy park" by the many Americans in our neighborhood because of all the naked guys who would drop their clothes and lounge in the park whenever the temperature broke 70 degrees; amusing and liberating at the same time. I've encountered many European adults who insist on changing their clothes in public and have absolutely no qualms about doing so right in front of you, your children or anybody else for that matter. Recently a middle aged woman took us completely by surprise when she stripped down to her undies and changed into her softball outfit right in front of us. Hello!
However, my all-time favorite (so far) is our experience at LegoLand. We visited the park on a relatively hot (for European standards) day and were totally taken aback by the sights we saw. If you've ever been to LegoLand you know the park has a few water rides. By water rides I mean the potential to get wet exists but isn't guaranteed--think log or rapids rides at any traditional amusement park. Well, the POTENTIAL in Europe has a very different meaning than it does to most Americans--everywhere I looked adults and children alike were systematically changing into their swimsuits before going on the water rides. My husband and I thought--why in the world would you need your swimsuit at an amusement park? The European answer of course is to go on the "water" rides or frolic with their children in the park's many fountains. Silly Americans. Have you ever seen an adult frolicking in a public fountain in their swim suit in the States? Me neither; again amusing and liberating at the same time.
Lastly, it is very common in Europe to experience someone relieving themselves on the side of the road, hopefully facing away from you but maybe not. I used to think it was only the children, but throughout our travels on the autobahn it is just as common to see adults creating a roadside restroom as it is their children. I'm not talking behind bushes here, I literally mean right on the side of the road for the world to see. Moms will literally hold their kids legs up and the kiddos, girls or boys will go right there in front of you. Now, I will freely admit that this is a bit weird for the girl who has public restroom issues, but at the end of the day-- who am I to judge.
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| Getting ready for the water ride! |
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| At Legoland pants are optional! |
Friday, February 25, 2011
Luxembourg & Belgium
Anyone who knows me knows that I am a bit of an obsessive person. Okay, that's putting it mildly; I'm pretty darn neurotic. About a year ago, I found out we would be blessed with another opportunity to live in Europe. Once I got the news my neurotic itch kicked in and I wasted no time planning everywhere I wanted to go. In the span of a few weeks I had our entire three years planned in detail. On my list, were places I've visited before and feel I need to revisit and new places I've never been. I absolutely love to travel; however, planning our travels is a bit of a job. A job that includes advanced level budgeting (Europe is really expensive) and trying to find European hotels that have space for three adults (Great news-my twelve year old daughter now counts as an adult) one child and one large dog. Not whining here, just the facts of the challenge I happily embrace as long as I get to eat croissants and other bread products while exploring.
True to my spirit, I've had every holiday weekend and vacation planned and booked for this year for quite some time, except for the few holiday weekends that fall between Christmas and spring. I decided to leave these weekends free since you can't depend on the weather here this time of year. As last weekend approached and the weather looked like it was going to hold, my family and I started to get antsy thinking of where we might want to go on a short notice trip? After much consternation, we decided a trip to the small country of Luxembourg would be a great getaway.
To be honest, Luxembourg really wasn't on my list of European places to see, and I really didn't know very much about it before our visit. All I knew was it's a tiny country, sandwiched between France, Germany and Belgium, but that was about the extent of my knowledge.
I found Luxembourg to be an overlooked gem. The city of Luxembourg was very lovely. The whole country is roughly 80 miles by 50 miles, so you can really see a lot in a small amount of time. Since Luxembourg is known for it's banking industry the city itself is pretty wealthy. Because Luxembourg is so close in proximity to France, it has a lot of french influences from the food to the language. At lunchtime alone we were able to sample some quiche, croque monsieur, macaroons and my favorite Champagne!
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| Luxembourg city |
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| Luxembourg's old city walls |
One of my favorite things about traveling is how much I learn about new places. I love learning about history while traveling about. This particular trip, I learned so much about the history of the region during World War II. I guess I didn't realize before our trip how strategically important Luxembourg, and Belgium were during the War. It was a truly amazing experience to see with my own eyes the immense sacrifices made for the freedom of this region. In my mind, history isn't so much a study of the past, but instead an attempt to learn from previous mistakes before they repeat themselves. The more I know about the past the better I can understand the future.
Our first priority once arriving in Luxembourg was to visit the American Cemetery located there. I really didn't have a grasp on Luxembourg and it's involvement in World War II and I was completely unaware they were occupied for 5 years before being liberated by the sacrifice of American lives. As we drove through the countryside, I tried hard to imagine what it must have been like for our soldiers to fight so desperately for the liberation of others so far from home.
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| American Cemetery~Luxembourg |
At the American Cemetery there are over 5,000 soldiers buried. General Patton is buried there along with 2 medal of honor recipients as well. This particular cemetery had 118 Star of David headstones, 1 woman nurse, and sadly 22 sets of brothers buried alongside each other. Witnessing the headstones of brothers was almost to much to bear; I can't imagine the feeling of loss their families must have felt. There was even one set of brothers, with the last name Morgan, who died only 12 days apart.
I have previously been to Normandy, Arlington and several other American Military Cemeteries, so I have experienced the sadness and the sobering numbness that fills your stomach as you walk around trying to be as respectful as possible, but this was the first time my daughter has been to an American Military Cemetery at an age where she can understand the price of war. As a parent, I was proud of my daughter to see the sobering affect it had on her. I don't know if most kids would want to experience such a thing? I do know my daughter embraced her feelings and I think she learned so much from the experience.
I have previously been to Normandy, Arlington and several other American Military Cemeteries, so I have experienced the sadness and the sobering numbness that fills your stomach as you walk around trying to be as respectful as possible, but this was the first time my daughter has been to an American Military Cemetery at an age where she can understand the price of war. As a parent, I was proud of my daughter to see the sobering affect it had on her. I don't know if most kids would want to experience such a thing? I do know my daughter embraced her feelings and I think she learned so much from the experience.
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| Castle Vianden |
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| Town of Vianden |
That night we stayed in the castle town of Vianden. Vianden was a very interesting town and we really enjoyed our time there. The next day we hiked around the mountain area and visited the palace. I am always amazed how beautifully these castles have been restored. This particular castle sits on Roman ruins dating back to the 3rd century. The castle as it stands now was constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries. My children always enjoy exploring castles, I believe it turns their imaginary world into reality.
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| Memorial in Vianden |
As we were heading out of town to our next stop in Bastogne, we noticed a small roadside monument in honor of the American soldiers that gave their lives to liberate Vianden. Vianden was occupied for 5 years by the Nazis and it was the last town in Luxembourg to be liberated. I found it so moving, there were fresh flowers recently placed on the monument. The people of Vianden have not forgotten all the sacrifices made for the sake of their freedom.
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| American Memorial Batogne, Belgium |
Once arriving in Bastogne we visited the American Memorial that honored the 76,890 American casualties of the Battle of the Bulge. Again, I learned that the people of Bastogne felt our American soldiers fought as though the land around Bastogne was American soil. It filled me with immense pride to see the gratitude and respect paid to our country and it's sacrifices; so proud to be an American. I always get choked up thinking about these soldiers traveling so far from their homes, yet willing to die for someone else's freedom. This history of course quickly reminded me of our present men and women of the Armed Forces who serve so valiantly.
I found myself asking how does a country let itself get occupied? How do you get yourself in such a predicament where you have to wait 5 years for someone else to come liberate you? I tell myself Americans would never go for that. Or maybe if everyone is asleep at the wheel and misses the signs and just does nothing, waiting for someone else to take the tough stand, maybe it could happen to anyone. I don't have the answers to these questions. I don't place any blame, it is what it is. I do know I feel proud to be an American, the country that stood up and faced the enormous challenge.
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| Bastogne, Belgium |
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| Yummy!!! |
Before starting our long journey home, we set out to try some world famous Belgium "Frites and believe me they were well worth the wait. Speaking of food, I was so impressed with Bastogne's many bakeries. I don't think I've ever seen a finer display of baked goods in my life. As we walked the tiny main street my family and I gasped as we past each bakery, finding each one's pies and baked goods more beautiful than the last. It was such a treat for my senses!
When we got home, as I was beginning to wash clothes and unpack and settle back into reality. I could hear my son playing dress up with his play rifle. I could hear him begin to relive everything he had seen and experienced. I could hear him saying,"Fight, Fight, Fight, for freedom"! As I got a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye I thanked Luxembourg for teaching us about its history and reminding us about the sacrifices our country made for the freedom of others.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Grey Thoughts
Like everybody else I have a relatively busy life. There are kids to teach, dinners to cook, errands to run and the list goes on and on. However, since I had the brilliant idea to put my thoughts out on display for the world to see (all five of you) I have set a goal for myself to post something at least once a week. Usually it is very easy for me to empty my mind and reveal myself through my blog. My mind is constantly analyzing and thinking about things--that is my blessing and my curse.
I remember many years ago a smart person once told me to stay away from the grey--it's the black and white, the right and wrong, the yes and the no that matters. So, for sometime I tried to live in terms of black and white and right vs wrong. But now that I am older I've found that there is so much more to life than this simple paradigm. Sorry smart guy. I have learned to embrace the space between the black and white; the grey area that holds my thoughts, my soul and the things that make me me.
So, I came up with the idea to share some of the things I like and a few that I dislike for those weeks when I don't have anything else to post, or like today when I'm trying to pack for our next trip. I'm sure there will be a post about it next week--stay tuned.
Things I Like:
1) I love Dave Matthews. His music speaks to my soul and no other musician could come close to the place I hold for his music in my heart.
2) I love to travel (duh). I love losing myself in places where nobody knows me. I love the anonymity that travel offers.
3) I love wearing clothes one size too big. The fat girl in me is always afraid of the day they will be to small. So I live in clothes too big. So silly but true.
4) I love to hike. I've been a runner all of my adult life but I really like walking and hiking better. I will happily accept the day I can't run anymore with open arms.
5) I love milk, bread products and German gummi candy especially licorice. I always joke that if you cut me open only bread products, milk and candy would spill out.
Things I Dislike:
1) Pushy people. I dislike people trying to control me, that is the quickest way to get me to do the opposite. No matter what the situation, I'm putting my heels in. "Don't push me" are my famous last words.
2) Pretentious people. I find it very annoying when people wear their status on their sleeve and treat you based upon it. We all came into this world the same, and we will all exit the same; with nothing but ourselves and our beliefs.
3) I strongly dislike people who judge others. I don't want to hear you make fun of someone else, quiet the ego!
4) Fake people. You know the ones that live all around you and smile and pretend to be your friend, but it is all superficial. I'm only interested in real relationships.
5) I dislike Wal-Mart. No explanation needed!
Life is simple and beautiful and far more interesting experienced in grey than in black and white.
I remember many years ago a smart person once told me to stay away from the grey--it's the black and white, the right and wrong, the yes and the no that matters. So, for sometime I tried to live in terms of black and white and right vs wrong. But now that I am older I've found that there is so much more to life than this simple paradigm. Sorry smart guy. I have learned to embrace the space between the black and white; the grey area that holds my thoughts, my soul and the things that make me me.
So, I came up with the idea to share some of the things I like and a few that I dislike for those weeks when I don't have anything else to post, or like today when I'm trying to pack for our next trip. I'm sure there will be a post about it next week--stay tuned.
Things I Like:
1) I love Dave Matthews. His music speaks to my soul and no other musician could come close to the place I hold for his music in my heart.
2) I love to travel (duh). I love losing myself in places where nobody knows me. I love the anonymity that travel offers.
3) I love wearing clothes one size too big. The fat girl in me is always afraid of the day they will be to small. So I live in clothes too big. So silly but true.
4) I love to hike. I've been a runner all of my adult life but I really like walking and hiking better. I will happily accept the day I can't run anymore with open arms.
5) I love milk, bread products and German gummi candy especially licorice. I always joke that if you cut me open only bread products, milk and candy would spill out.
Things I Dislike:
1) Pushy people. I dislike people trying to control me, that is the quickest way to get me to do the opposite. No matter what the situation, I'm putting my heels in. "Don't push me" are my famous last words.
2) Pretentious people. I find it very annoying when people wear their status on their sleeve and treat you based upon it. We all came into this world the same, and we will all exit the same; with nothing but ourselves and our beliefs.
3) I strongly dislike people who judge others. I don't want to hear you make fun of someone else, quiet the ego!
4) Fake people. You know the ones that live all around you and smile and pretend to be your friend, but it is all superficial. I'm only interested in real relationships.
5) I dislike Wal-Mart. No explanation needed!
Life is simple and beautiful and far more interesting experienced in grey than in black and white.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
How do they eat that way?
As many of you know, (my four loyal readers, thank you by the way) this is my second time living overseas in Europe. The first time around we lived in Frankfurt, and I was in awe of the whole experience. I was a little less ambitious back then, quite a bit younger, not nearly as worldly and a little overwhelmed by the whole amazing opportunity. I guess age changes things. I remember very well while living in Frankfurt, the question of the day was always--How in the world do these European women stay so thin while eating the way they do? This question consumed many a conversation back then. I would even call my mother back in the States hoping to find the magic answer.
I remember being mesmerized by European women walking cobblestone streets in 5 inch Gucci boots through cities like Prague, Rome and of course Paris. I remember thinking how can I be like these sophisticated women. They seemed to eat what they want, while wearing the most magnificent clothes and money seemed to be no object.
I see things a little differently this time around. I still love good food, beautiful clothes and nice things but I'm not as ready to look to someone else for answers that I now know are within me. I suppose it must be that age thing again.
This time around, I'm not as interested in the answer to---How do they eat that way and stay so thin question. Yes, European diets are filled with beer, wine, meat, cheese, eggs, tons of dairy and I do not dare forget the Holy Grail of all items BREAD!!! Nothing here is low fat, they don't even have fat free milk in their grocery stores. Seriously. Oh, and by the way the German tradition of cake everyday in the afternoon, that's a real tradition. Or the consumption of ice cream? I've never seen more ice cream consumed in my life than the amount I've seen eaten while traveling Europe. Oh, and I better not leave off pizza, it seems that is all they really do eat in Italy. I do believe every single restaurant in Italy serves pizza, pizza, and more pizza. After our last trip to Italy I didn't want to see another pizza for quite some time. This is all less of a question to me now that needs an answer and more of an amusement to me now. However, I still find the European diet an interesting subject, but because I'm older this time around I guess I'm less in awe.
If you are reading this and are really in need of an answer to the million dollar question, the only one I can come up with for you is--Europeans don't eat preservatives. Simply stated, they eat real food. They eat a lot of vegetables mixed in with all the aforementioned yummy stuff. They generally don't eat fast food probably because fast food is not readily available here and as convenient as it is in the states. Bakeries, pizza, Turkish donner's and bratwurst is Europe's fast food in that it is convenient, relatively cheap and always available. Lastly, Europeans walk everywhere they go, sometimes even in 5 inch Gucci boots.
I guess what I'm saying is I've seen both sides of the fence; the extreme calorie counting, hold the cream, hold the bread mindset and on the opposite side; no preservatives, cream, pork, beer and add the bread please.
This time around I don't notice the skinny women that much, I guess that's the age thing again. I'm not interested in finding the answer to the million dollar question but I do think I've found an answer for my life, which is to simply to Let it Be (thanks John Lennon) eat what you want, when you want; that piece of bread isn't going to kill you, lose the preservatives if you can and enjoy what you do whatever that may be.
I remember being mesmerized by European women walking cobblestone streets in 5 inch Gucci boots through cities like Prague, Rome and of course Paris. I remember thinking how can I be like these sophisticated women. They seemed to eat what they want, while wearing the most magnificent clothes and money seemed to be no object.
I see things a little differently this time around. I still love good food, beautiful clothes and nice things but I'm not as ready to look to someone else for answers that I now know are within me. I suppose it must be that age thing again.
This time around, I'm not as interested in the answer to---How do they eat that way and stay so thin question. Yes, European diets are filled with beer, wine, meat, cheese, eggs, tons of dairy and I do not dare forget the Holy Grail of all items BREAD!!! Nothing here is low fat, they don't even have fat free milk in their grocery stores. Seriously. Oh, and by the way the German tradition of cake everyday in the afternoon, that's a real tradition. Or the consumption of ice cream? I've never seen more ice cream consumed in my life than the amount I've seen eaten while traveling Europe. Oh, and I better not leave off pizza, it seems that is all they really do eat in Italy. I do believe every single restaurant in Italy serves pizza, pizza, and more pizza. After our last trip to Italy I didn't want to see another pizza for quite some time. This is all less of a question to me now that needs an answer and more of an amusement to me now. However, I still find the European diet an interesting subject, but because I'm older this time around I guess I'm less in awe.
If you are reading this and are really in need of an answer to the million dollar question, the only one I can come up with for you is--Europeans don't eat preservatives. Simply stated, they eat real food. They eat a lot of vegetables mixed in with all the aforementioned yummy stuff. They generally don't eat fast food probably because fast food is not readily available here and as convenient as it is in the states. Bakeries, pizza, Turkish donner's and bratwurst is Europe's fast food in that it is convenient, relatively cheap and always available. Lastly, Europeans walk everywhere they go, sometimes even in 5 inch Gucci boots.
I guess what I'm saying is I've seen both sides of the fence; the extreme calorie counting, hold the cream, hold the bread mindset and on the opposite side; no preservatives, cream, pork, beer and add the bread please.
This time around I don't notice the skinny women that much, I guess that's the age thing again. I'm not interested in finding the answer to the million dollar question but I do think I've found an answer for my life, which is to simply to Let it Be (thanks John Lennon) eat what you want, when you want; that piece of bread isn't going to kill you, lose the preservatives if you can and enjoy what you do whatever that may be.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Play Date
Berfore arriving in Germany, my family and I decided that we would not waste our valuable time on stupid things.
Together, my husband and I made the hard choice and decided we would not spend any of our precious weekends involved in kids sports programs that keep us all so busy in America. There is simply WAY to much to see here and not enough time to see it all to waste an entire Saturday playing six year old soccer. We are taking the gamble that all those soccer and baseball games will still be there a few years from now when we return home. Before you all think I'm a horrible parent, just know that my kids still get to be involved in sporty activities such as tennis, karate and fencing. However, thankfully, these are all weekend friendly sports that don't interfere with my SATURDAYS. In the Grand Scheme of it all I believe that experiencing the sights and sounds of Europe are well worth the sacrifice.
Any who, today I witnessed the cutest experience that I thought I'd share. On Friday's my son Tommy plays tennis at the local German sports club. Tommy has made a little friend and today was their first play date. Raphael, my son's friend is German, but speaks English well because he has been in an English speaking school in Germany since he was in preschool. This is something that is very important to his parents. Now, after agreeing to the playdate I realized I was being a little exploited by Raphael's mother for being American and English speaking, but hey it could be worse. I'm just happy my son has a new friend.
So, as Raphael is getting into my huge minivan, especially for European standards, his mother and most others here drive tiny baby cars. My car could literally eat her car for breakfast! The look on Raphael's face was priceless as he is looked into my cavernous vehicle. Then, as we started to drive to my house, my son kindly gave him some headphones so he could watch a movie which of course is the reason why we bought this jewel of a vehicle in the first place. Raphael was in pure heaven! It was beyond his wildest dreams to actually watch a movie while riding in a car. The little sounds he made while he watched G.I. Joe from the backseat of my car was so funny. Little Grunts and squeals of pure joy! It was truly priceless. I guess American children have no clue how good they have it.
Once we got to my house, Raphael sort of looked stunned when he saw my son's room. At first, I thought maybe he was disgusted by the sheer amount of toys Tommy has accumulated. So, we started playing 20 questions and tried to figure out what they wanted to play. First, we suggested Playmobil? No, he did not like Playmobil. Next we suggested Lego's? No, he did not like Lego's. Astronauts? No, he did not like Astronauts. G.I.Joe's? No, he did not like G.I.Joes either. Star Wars? Nope, Raphael didn't even like Star Wars. Hmmm...what now I thought to myself? So I asked him--Did he want to go home? NOOOOO, he screamed loudly! He definitely didn't want to go home.
Lastly, I mentioned Toy Story, and Raphael's little face lit up and he said,"Well, I do like Toy Story". I asked him if he had seen Toy Story 3? And of course, he had not. Yay! We were in business!
Then I asked the boys if they would like some popcorn and Raphael's little face lit up and he said, "I love popcorn"!!!!!
This was a very sweet moment. It reminded me of all the blessings of being an American. All the little things we take for granted, without even a moment thinking about it. Yes, they are material things, but they are All-American material things. Other cultures in the world simply don't have movies in their cars, Buzz and Woody and microwaveable popcorn at the ready.
As we watch the Middle East struggle through tulmotuous times for the foreseeable future, please count your blessings and realize nobody has it like us!
Together, my husband and I made the hard choice and decided we would not spend any of our precious weekends involved in kids sports programs that keep us all so busy in America. There is simply WAY to much to see here and not enough time to see it all to waste an entire Saturday playing six year old soccer. We are taking the gamble that all those soccer and baseball games will still be there a few years from now when we return home. Before you all think I'm a horrible parent, just know that my kids still get to be involved in sporty activities such as tennis, karate and fencing. However, thankfully, these are all weekend friendly sports that don't interfere with my SATURDAYS. In the Grand Scheme of it all I believe that experiencing the sights and sounds of Europe are well worth the sacrifice.
Any who, today I witnessed the cutest experience that I thought I'd share. On Friday's my son Tommy plays tennis at the local German sports club. Tommy has made a little friend and today was their first play date. Raphael, my son's friend is German, but speaks English well because he has been in an English speaking school in Germany since he was in preschool. This is something that is very important to his parents. Now, after agreeing to the playdate I realized I was being a little exploited by Raphael's mother for being American and English speaking, but hey it could be worse. I'm just happy my son has a new friend.
So, as Raphael is getting into my huge minivan, especially for European standards, his mother and most others here drive tiny baby cars. My car could literally eat her car for breakfast! The look on Raphael's face was priceless as he is looked into my cavernous vehicle. Then, as we started to drive to my house, my son kindly gave him some headphones so he could watch a movie which of course is the reason why we bought this jewel of a vehicle in the first place. Raphael was in pure heaven! It was beyond his wildest dreams to actually watch a movie while riding in a car. The little sounds he made while he watched G.I. Joe from the backseat of my car was so funny. Little Grunts and squeals of pure joy! It was truly priceless. I guess American children have no clue how good they have it.
Once we got to my house, Raphael sort of looked stunned when he saw my son's room. At first, I thought maybe he was disgusted by the sheer amount of toys Tommy has accumulated. So, we started playing 20 questions and tried to figure out what they wanted to play. First, we suggested Playmobil? No, he did not like Playmobil. Next we suggested Lego's? No, he did not like Lego's. Astronauts? No, he did not like Astronauts. G.I.Joe's? No, he did not like G.I.Joes either. Star Wars? Nope, Raphael didn't even like Star Wars. Hmmm...what now I thought to myself? So I asked him--Did he want to go home? NOOOOO, he screamed loudly! He definitely didn't want to go home.
Lastly, I mentioned Toy Story, and Raphael's little face lit up and he said,"Well, I do like Toy Story". I asked him if he had seen Toy Story 3? And of course, he had not. Yay! We were in business!
Then I asked the boys if they would like some popcorn and Raphael's little face lit up and he said, "I love popcorn"!!!!!
This was a very sweet moment. It reminded me of all the blessings of being an American. All the little things we take for granted, without even a moment thinking about it. Yes, they are material things, but they are All-American material things. Other cultures in the world simply don't have movies in their cars, Buzz and Woody and microwaveable popcorn at the ready.
As we watch the Middle East struggle through tulmotuous times for the foreseeable future, please count your blessings and realize nobody has it like us!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Dear Oprah,
After watching your show on Friday, which is really the show that aired on Thursday but we get it here in Germany at 8am the following morning, I find myself a little perplexed. The show that I am speaking about is the show where you (Oprah) had an "AH HA" moment and realized the sacrifice that our service members make on a daily basis.
I work out at this time in the morning and usually enjoy your show and all of the mental stimulation it brings while I am sweating away. This week alone I watched shows from Australia, a show about how far the gay movement has come and your (Oprah) contribution to this movement, and a show on happiness with Goldie Hawn teaching us her life lessons regarding the subject. You may be sensing my sarcasm a wee bit.
However, Friday's show (really Thursday) really affected me. So much that I had to write about my feelings, part of me wants to scream FIN AL LY!!! The other half makes me want to grab you by the shoulders and say SERIOUSLY??? I'm feeling half enraged and half ecstatic. Enraged because how in the world can a person of your spiritual and mental muster not contemplate the sacrifices of our military families during two wars? You have SOO much empathy for everyone and every subject, but never even thought about the people that bring you the freedom to air your shows that allow you a voice in the first place? Wow, that is a travesty. You've never been to Arlington National Cemetary? Seriously?
I am what I think of as a loving, pretty spiritually connected person but honestly my mind is filling with lots of not so nice thoughts regarding your agenda. Your agenda that we as America have bought and allowed ourselves to be moved to the places you felt we needed to go. It makes me so sad you forgot the men and women of our armed forces, men like my husband who are willing to sacrifice everything and not ask for a single thing in return.
See I live in a military community so I can not close my eyes to the effects of war, the widows, and the husbands who come home maimed either physically or mentally. I know the widows of this war. I've seen children left behind for a year with grandparents because both parents are deployed. I've watched the mess families become because of multiple deployments. I've watched my own husband come home a changed and different person. I know the effects of this war too well. As a military spouse I don't whine about it, I don't push my agenda because I don't really have one.
My other response to Friday's show comes from my heart. I am so thrilled that you finally took the time to see and try to understand these brave and honorable people. I know what you can do and know the power of your endorsement and hope this will make a positive difference in a very deserving group of American lives. Maybe next time you go somewhere like Australia, instead of taking your most loyal viewers you will think about the ones on who's blood sweat and tears you've thrived. A little late, but I'm glad you came around.
I work out at this time in the morning and usually enjoy your show and all of the mental stimulation it brings while I am sweating away. This week alone I watched shows from Australia, a show about how far the gay movement has come and your (Oprah) contribution to this movement, and a show on happiness with Goldie Hawn teaching us her life lessons regarding the subject. You may be sensing my sarcasm a wee bit.
However, Friday's show (really Thursday) really affected me. So much that I had to write about my feelings, part of me wants to scream FIN AL LY!!! The other half makes me want to grab you by the shoulders and say SERIOUSLY??? I'm feeling half enraged and half ecstatic. Enraged because how in the world can a person of your spiritual and mental muster not contemplate the sacrifices of our military families during two wars? You have SOO much empathy for everyone and every subject, but never even thought about the people that bring you the freedom to air your shows that allow you a voice in the first place? Wow, that is a travesty. You've never been to Arlington National Cemetary? Seriously?
I am what I think of as a loving, pretty spiritually connected person but honestly my mind is filling with lots of not so nice thoughts regarding your agenda. Your agenda that we as America have bought and allowed ourselves to be moved to the places you felt we needed to go. It makes me so sad you forgot the men and women of our armed forces, men like my husband who are willing to sacrifice everything and not ask for a single thing in return.
See I live in a military community so I can not close my eyes to the effects of war, the widows, and the husbands who come home maimed either physically or mentally. I know the widows of this war. I've seen children left behind for a year with grandparents because both parents are deployed. I've watched the mess families become because of multiple deployments. I've watched my own husband come home a changed and different person. I know the effects of this war too well. As a military spouse I don't whine about it, I don't push my agenda because I don't really have one.
My other response to Friday's show comes from my heart. I am so thrilled that you finally took the time to see and try to understand these brave and honorable people. I know what you can do and know the power of your endorsement and hope this will make a positive difference in a very deserving group of American lives. Maybe next time you go somewhere like Australia, instead of taking your most loyal viewers you will think about the ones on who's blood sweat and tears you've thrived. A little late, but I'm glad you came around.
Friday, January 28, 2011
My love for Football and Texas
I guess I'm one of THOSE girls that once you've got me figured out I pull a bait and switch on you. I'm the girl that likes to gut a fish but also adores couture. Don't try to label me, I hate that. You know what they say about women, you can't figure us out. I think I define that theory everyday.
I just finished re-watchinig an episode of Friday Night Lights, hands down, my favorite television show OF ALL TIMES and it got me thinking about how my love for this show surprises me.
I'm a little late to the FNL bandwagon, and if it hadn't been for my horrible television choices while living overseas I would have never taken the time to watch my first FNL. I finally gave into my husbands gentle nudges to give it a try, and within one episode I was HOOKED. Hooked in a crazy have to remind myself they are television characters way. The girl who doesn't even watch TV, needless to say, can not wait for season 5 to be released on DVD.
I couldn't even begin to tell you what it is that I love so much about this TV show. The characters, these kids with all the odds against them each episode show their determination to grow and become something, to get out of their impoverished small town that lives and breaths only one thing, football. It is the heart of each and every character that I've fallen in love with.
This got me to thinking just how crazy it is that, a show about football and Texas, two things I don't much care about have touched me so deeply I can't even describe. I guess I even surprised myself.
I'm so thankful for this simple pleasure, and thankful for the reminder if I allow myself to be open, the possibilities are beyond what I can see.
Clear eyes, and full hearts can't lose!
I just finished re-watchinig an episode of Friday Night Lights, hands down, my favorite television show OF ALL TIMES and it got me thinking about how my love for this show surprises me.
I'm a little late to the FNL bandwagon, and if it hadn't been for my horrible television choices while living overseas I would have never taken the time to watch my first FNL. I finally gave into my husbands gentle nudges to give it a try, and within one episode I was HOOKED. Hooked in a crazy have to remind myself they are television characters way. The girl who doesn't even watch TV, needless to say, can not wait for season 5 to be released on DVD.
I couldn't even begin to tell you what it is that I love so much about this TV show. The characters, these kids with all the odds against them each episode show their determination to grow and become something, to get out of their impoverished small town that lives and breaths only one thing, football. It is the heart of each and every character that I've fallen in love with.
This got me to thinking just how crazy it is that, a show about football and Texas, two things I don't much care about have touched me so deeply I can't even describe. I guess I even surprised myself.
I'm so thankful for this simple pleasure, and thankful for the reminder if I allow myself to be open, the possibilities are beyond what I can see.
Clear eyes, and full hearts can't lose!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Bonjour Alsace
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| Colmar |
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| Le Petite Venice, Colmar |
What could be better than a weekend in France? For me, not much can top a trip to one of my favorite countries in the world. No where else would I rather be where you eat so good, drink fantastic wine and experience beauty so profound. This trip my family and I were so lucky to travel to the world renowned wine region of Alsace, France, which is a short 2 hour drive from my home in Germany. This beautiful well traveled area is famous for it's vineyards, small medieval villages and of course castles that dot the beautiful Les Vosges mountains. This was my second trip to the area but my first time visiting Colmar and the lovely villages that surround it.
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| Haut-Koenigsbourg |
I really love France and how it always surprises me. Every time I visit I'm taken aback by how friendly the people are. I really don't know why they get such a bad rap, but I find the French to be very polite, kind and generous people. I might be imagining this, but I always feel a bit of sincere appreciation and friendship in our interactions. I imagine it is because of my country's assistance in removing tyranny from their country many years ago. I also find myself surprised by how simple their lives seem, and I mean that in a GOOD way. Their love of beauty is evident and their uncluttered, simple and modest lives contribute to this. The french style is so effortless. I think sometimes I have gotten this love of beauty confused and I need to remind myself that beauty is an effortless thing.
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| Riquewihr |
On our weekend getaway, our first stop was the village Riquewihr. This tiny village was so well preserved that it felt like a movie set. I kept waiting for Steven Spielberg to come around the corner and say, "Cut!" We arrived around 10am on Saturday morning and not a creature was stirring, but possibly a mouse. I think we didn't get the after Christmas memo that stated the French were taking it easy this particular weekend. It was very amusing how all the shops VERY slowly opened, almost like they didn't have a set schedule but opened based on convenience. We also found it extremely amusing that throughout all of the villages they still had all of their Christmas decorations intact, garlands, St.Nicholas and flocked Christmas trees were so bizarre to see still hanging around.
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| Riquewihr |
I have a love affair with the french culture for so many reasons the least of these is their bread products. I could survive on bread products alone! The smells and sights of each bakery were almost to much for this girl to bear. Bread weakens my best efforts at willpower, it is definitely my Kryptonite. It is so sweet to me, to watch the French culture moving about with their bread products, it seems either they are always on their way to the bakery or returning with a armful of baguettes. My husband joked he wanted to marry each bakery maiden for her oven. I can't blame him!
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| Alsace Poster |
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| Riquewihr |
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| Crepes!! |
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| Haut-Koenigsbourg |
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| Haut-Koenigsbourg |
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| Haut-Koenigsbourg |
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| Haut Ribeaupierre & Saint Ulrich Ruins |
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