So... there's been quite the debate regarding smoking lately... several people have asked me about my opinion and, honestly, I'm afraid that if I publish it, I'll be ex-communicated from the church.
My opinion is alive and well and written... it's just a matter of whether or not it ought to be published, especially when children are in the audience.
*thinks for a minute*
On a completely different note, I've developed a new obsession, und zwar, playing the Guitar. At Eleanor's the other day, I was sitting outside messing around on the guitar when a friend came by...
Friend: "I'd like to play the guitar... but I can't."
Mary: "Listen to my playing - I can't play either."
Friend: "I'd never sit outside and just play like that... I'd be too embarassed."
Mary: "Eh, you have to start somewhere."
Then Syd, who's never anything but sweet and encouraging came by...
Syd: *starts messing with my guitar* "The guitar keeps squeaking... you have to press the strings tighter."
Mary: "Well, YOU couldn't play it much better."
Syd: "Your MOM couldn't play it much better."
One of the many things I've learned since being here in Germany is that quite a bit is possible - you simply have to do something... you have to have a little confidence and take the necessary step. And if you mess up, that's ok, too.
The pessimistic perfectionist is becoming a smaller and smaller part of my life...
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Friday, April 06, 2007
Lord, liar or lunatic?
With Easter approaching, I've been thinking quite a bit about Jesus... specifically, how people (including myself) view him.
Is he God? Is he a prophet? Is he a good man and nothing more? Is he a criminal who deserved to die? There's quite a bit of disagreement when it comes to who he actually is, which is why I think it's important to look at who he says he is. For example, he claims to be God. He claims to be able to forgive people. He accepts worship.
Is that normal? Is that right?
If I were to claim to be God, and claim to be able to forgive people, what would the general reaction be? Would I be taken seriously or would that be more in the diretion of blasphemy and being commited to an insane asylum? Probably the latter...
All that to say... when it comes to Jesus, there are really only three options of who he could be: Lord, liar or lunatic. If his claims are false, that would mean that Jesus is either a lunatic (he made a false claim but believed it) or a liar (he deliberately and vindictively made the false claim). But if his claims are true, that would make him Lord.
There is no way he was simply a "good man." Good men don't claim to be God, don't claim to be able to forgive people's sins, etc. That's what *crazy* people with delusions of grandeur do.
Based on what he's said, I'd argue that he's either a very bad man, or God.
So... if what he says is true, we all have something to think about.
Jesus once asked Simon-Peter, one of his friends, "who do you say that I am?" This is a good question for us today as well. Who do you say that Jesus is? Do you think he was *crazy*? Was he a warm fuzzy prophet? Was he a criminal? Or could it maybe be that he really can forgive us, really can bridge the gap between us and God?
It's almost Easter. The entire Western World is on vacation. This might not be a bad time for us to think about who Jesus really is, and what that means for us.
Is he God? Is he a prophet? Is he a good man and nothing more? Is he a criminal who deserved to die? There's quite a bit of disagreement when it comes to who he actually is, which is why I think it's important to look at who he says he is. For example, he claims to be God. He claims to be able to forgive people. He accepts worship.
Is that normal? Is that right?
If I were to claim to be God, and claim to be able to forgive people, what would the general reaction be? Would I be taken seriously or would that be more in the diretion of blasphemy and being commited to an insane asylum? Probably the latter...
All that to say... when it comes to Jesus, there are really only three options of who he could be: Lord, liar or lunatic. If his claims are false, that would mean that Jesus is either a lunatic (he made a false claim but believed it) or a liar (he deliberately and vindictively made the false claim). But if his claims are true, that would make him Lord.
There is no way he was simply a "good man." Good men don't claim to be God, don't claim to be able to forgive people's sins, etc. That's what *crazy* people with delusions of grandeur do.
Based on what he's said, I'd argue that he's either a very bad man, or God.
So... if what he says is true, we all have something to think about.
Jesus once asked Simon-Peter, one of his friends, "who do you say that I am?" This is a good question for us today as well. Who do you say that Jesus is? Do you think he was *crazy*? Was he a warm fuzzy prophet? Was he a criminal? Or could it maybe be that he really can forgive us, really can bridge the gap between us and God?
It's almost Easter. The entire Western World is on vacation. This might not be a bad time for us to think about who Jesus really is, and what that means for us.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Smoking, Part II (Translated Comments!)
Well, Tobi and Lizzy left some interesting comments, which I've been kind enough to translate for my Dear American Readers.
:)
Here's what Tobi wrote:
Point 1. Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Smoking is poison (there’s no question about this) and no matter when and how often you smoke, you’re smoking out the Holy Spirit.
2. Nicotine is a drug and an addiction. Even if you only smoke every now and then, the step towards being a regular smoker (be it out of boredom or frustration) is very short. You should prevent such habits.
3. General question: do you want to be a good example for others or not? If I don’t want people or teens or youth to smoke, then I should consistently model this which would mean not smoking, ever.
4. It’s an either – or situation.
5. If you think you’re free, then you also have the freedom to say “no.” Smoking as a habit ties you down.
6. In the Bible, it says that if your behaviour is a hindrance to others, you should refrain. Well, I hate smoking, so your smoking would be a hindrance to me.
7. Smoking isn’t cool. Most people only smoke because of peer pressure. You could eat a candy or an apple or whatever instead.
Hash and marijuana are out of the question; they’re drugs. There are not decent medical values; it only anesthetizes the Holy Spirit. In the Bible, it says that you should have a pure spirit, even in pain. Look at how Jesus suffered; our pain is nothing in comparison.
Jesus didn’t smoke and wouldn’t smoke; he wasn’t into pleasure – He was here to save us. He kept his spirit pure and wasn’t distracted by smoking.
And here's what Lizzy wrote:
I totally agree with Tobi! I’ve never touched a cigarette and never plan to! Even though some friends of mine smoke, it hasn’t been hard for me to refrain because I think it’s disgusting!! It stinks, your eyes tear, it’s too expensive, etc.! When it comes to hash and marijuana, it’s the same story. I’ve never touched it and never will. I agree with Tobi!!
There’s also hookah. I wouldn’t count that as a drug, but in principle you can put it in the same category as cigarettes. You smoke it every now and then, but if you smoke it too much, you can become addicted (not as fast as with cigarettes, but when you’re addicted, it’s just as hard to break the habit!), which is why I think that what Tobi wrote about cigarettes also applies to hookah. I think you should keep your fingers away! It’s hard to prove whether hookah is more or less damaging than cigarettes… the only “advantage” is maybe that it doesn’t taste so disgusting. Another advantage might be the fact that you smoke in comfy little groups with friends/family. But these are the only advantages!
Hmm...
:)
Here's what Tobi wrote:
Point 1. Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Smoking is poison (there’s no question about this) and no matter when and how often you smoke, you’re smoking out the Holy Spirit.
2. Nicotine is a drug and an addiction. Even if you only smoke every now and then, the step towards being a regular smoker (be it out of boredom or frustration) is very short. You should prevent such habits.
3. General question: do you want to be a good example for others or not? If I don’t want people or teens or youth to smoke, then I should consistently model this which would mean not smoking, ever.
4. It’s an either – or situation.
5. If you think you’re free, then you also have the freedom to say “no.” Smoking as a habit ties you down.
6. In the Bible, it says that if your behaviour is a hindrance to others, you should refrain. Well, I hate smoking, so your smoking would be a hindrance to me.
7. Smoking isn’t cool. Most people only smoke because of peer pressure. You could eat a candy or an apple or whatever instead.
Hash and marijuana are out of the question; they’re drugs. There are not decent medical values; it only anesthetizes the Holy Spirit. In the Bible, it says that you should have a pure spirit, even in pain. Look at how Jesus suffered; our pain is nothing in comparison.
Jesus didn’t smoke and wouldn’t smoke; he wasn’t into pleasure – He was here to save us. He kept his spirit pure and wasn’t distracted by smoking.
And here's what Lizzy wrote:
I totally agree with Tobi! I’ve never touched a cigarette and never plan to! Even though some friends of mine smoke, it hasn’t been hard for me to refrain because I think it’s disgusting!! It stinks, your eyes tear, it’s too expensive, etc.! When it comes to hash and marijuana, it’s the same story. I’ve never touched it and never will. I agree with Tobi!!
There’s also hookah. I wouldn’t count that as a drug, but in principle you can put it in the same category as cigarettes. You smoke it every now and then, but if you smoke it too much, you can become addicted (not as fast as with cigarettes, but when you’re addicted, it’s just as hard to break the habit!), which is why I think that what Tobi wrote about cigarettes also applies to hookah. I think you should keep your fingers away! It’s hard to prove whether hookah is more or less damaging than cigarettes… the only “advantage” is maybe that it doesn’t taste so disgusting. Another advantage might be the fact that you smoke in comfy little groups with friends/family. But these are the only advantages!
Hmm...
Saturday, March 31, 2007
What (if anything) Would Jesus Smoke?
This is a serious question, folks. What do you guys think?
Would he smoke at all? If so, what? A pipe every now and then? A pack of cigarettes a day? Marijuana, but only for medical purposes? Hookah with his disciples after a long hard day of work?
Several of us were discussing this last night and there was a slight difference of opinion. I'd like to know what some of my Dear Reader's thoughts are and then (maybe) I'll publish my opinion.
:)
Would he smoke at all? If so, what? A pipe every now and then? A pack of cigarettes a day? Marijuana, but only for medical purposes? Hookah with his disciples after a long hard day of work?
Several of us were discussing this last night and there was a slight difference of opinion. I'd like to know what some of my Dear Reader's thoughts are and then (maybe) I'll publish my opinion.
:)
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Girl's Night and Lists :)
A few weeks ago, My Favourite Girls* came over for a Girl's Night, which included Girl Talk, a movie**, face masks and looking at pictures. :)
Another thing we did that might especially interest my Dear Single Readers was write a List of characteristics we'd like in a future spouse. For all of you who have experienced even a taste of love (be it "true love" or not), you have to agree that this is a good idea. Why? Because when you're in love with someone, you tend to only see the rosy side of things, which means it's good to objectively think things through in advance.
Which is what we did. And we even read through Proverbs 31 to see what kind of women we should be. *thinks for a while*
Anyway.
If you don't have a List, I'd highly recommend that you start one. You can make it as simple or as complicated as you want.
The Simple List, for example, might only include the absolute-basic-must-haves... such as similar beliefs or similar interests.
The Complicated List, for example, might include not only the absolute-basic-must-have, but also nice-to-haves or absolutely-cannot-haves.
You also don't have to complete it in one sitting. It's a thought process more than anything else. I started mine while in high school and have added to it throughout the years as I've met different people.
Nobody's perfect, including your future spouse... which means we shouldn't expect to find exactly the person described in our List. It's simply a good way of objectively and concretely thinking things through and evaluating a person or situation regardless of any feelings we might have.
So... back to Girl's Night. I know you'd all like to see pictures of us with Quark*** and cucumbers on our face, but I promised not to post them, so you'll have to do without. Maybe next time. :)
*you know who you are!
**A Walk to Remember... yeah, several of us were, em, bawling. Including me - I'm becoming my mother!!!
***similar to joghurt, but thicker and unsweetened
Another thing we did that might especially interest my Dear Single Readers was write a List of characteristics we'd like in a future spouse. For all of you who have experienced even a taste of love (be it "true love" or not), you have to agree that this is a good idea. Why? Because when you're in love with someone, you tend to only see the rosy side of things, which means it's good to objectively think things through in advance.
Which is what we did. And we even read through Proverbs 31 to see what kind of women we should be. *thinks for a while*
Anyway.
If you don't have a List, I'd highly recommend that you start one. You can make it as simple or as complicated as you want.
The Simple List, for example, might only include the absolute-basic-must-haves... such as similar beliefs or similar interests.
The Complicated List, for example, might include not only the absolute-basic-must-have, but also nice-to-haves or absolutely-cannot-haves.
You also don't have to complete it in one sitting. It's a thought process more than anything else. I started mine while in high school and have added to it throughout the years as I've met different people.
Nobody's perfect, including your future spouse... which means we shouldn't expect to find exactly the person described in our List. It's simply a good way of objectively and concretely thinking things through and evaluating a person or situation regardless of any feelings we might have.
So... back to Girl's Night. I know you'd all like to see pictures of us with Quark*** and cucumbers on our face, but I promised not to post them, so you'll have to do without. Maybe next time. :)
*you know who you are!
**A Walk to Remember... yeah, several of us were, em, bawling. Including me - I'm becoming my mother!!!
***similar to joghurt, but thicker and unsweetened
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Job Description
Well, several people have asked about my new job and what I'll be doing... so here goes: I'll be working as a financial analyst of sorts in the Finance Department. We're responsible for managing the expenses on our Location, which is primarily Sales and Service (no Production, that is). My primary task will be cost center controlling (budgeting, forecasting, reporting) and my secondary task will be supporting the Business Unit controllers in various upcoming projects.
It was a good, but difficult first week.
It was a good, but difficult first week.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Thoughts after the first two days of work...
- If you go to bed at 9 PM as opposed to 1 AM, it's much easier to wake up in the morning.
- Re-piercing my nose every night kinda hurts... but I should probably let a few more weeks pass before showing up with my lovely little nose stud.
- From the 5th story, you have quite a view when the clouds roll in and the rain pours down.
- Driving through traffic can even be interesting when you have Swing Music CDs and children's casettes such as 3 vom Ast to listen to (thanks Huckleberry!)
- Change, uncertainty, stress and being tired tend to bring out bad habits... but cold weather has a way of ending them.
- I'd rather climb a tree than a corporate ladder.
- Re-piercing my nose every night kinda hurts... but I should probably let a few more weeks pass before showing up with my lovely little nose stud.
- From the 5th story, you have quite a view when the clouds roll in and the rain pours down.
- Driving through traffic can even be interesting when you have Swing Music CDs and children's casettes such as 3 vom Ast to listen to (thanks Huckleberry!)
- Change, uncertainty, stress and being tired tend to bring out bad habits... but cold weather has a way of ending them.
- I'd rather climb a tree than a corporate ladder.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
The past half-a-year and the future...
While driving over the Rhein on the Autobahn the other day, I realized once again just how lovely it is here.
And, thanks to a pending work contract, I might just be able to stay here for a little while longer.
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FOR YOUR PRAYERS, SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT!!!
In the past half-a-year or so, I've lived through quite a bit... and had I known the events which were to unfold, I probably would have stayed closer to my parents and taken a somewhat "safer" route. But, thank goodness, we're unable to know the future, so I took a (what I'm slowly realizing was rather drastic) step and landed not only in Europe, but in the Center of the Universe itself.
The past half-a-year has been both a difficult time and a time of learning... I'm not sure why things happened the way they did, but many things we'll only understand wayyy post-facto.
Sometimes I wish I could see into the future... why? It's a mixture of curiosity and the desire to somehow mentally prepare for All That Is To Come. But then again... if I knew, I'd probably (a) freak out (b) make different decisions and (c) not focus enough on the present, on what I ought to be doing now.
*shrugs her shoulders*
And, thanks to a pending work contract, I might just be able to stay here for a little while longer.
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FOR YOUR PRAYERS, SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT!!!
In the past half-a-year or so, I've lived through quite a bit... and had I known the events which were to unfold, I probably would have stayed closer to my parents and taken a somewhat "safer" route. But, thank goodness, we're unable to know the future, so I took a (what I'm slowly realizing was rather drastic) step and landed not only in Europe, but in the Center of the Universe itself.
The past half-a-year has been both a difficult time and a time of learning... I'm not sure why things happened the way they did, but many things we'll only understand wayyy post-facto.
Sometimes I wish I could see into the future... why? It's a mixture of curiosity and the desire to somehow mentally prepare for All That Is To Come. But then again... if I knew, I'd probably (a) freak out (b) make different decisions and (c) not focus enough on the present, on what I ought to be doing now.
*shrugs her shoulders*
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Diving and Decision-Making
While at the pool with Mariposa, Huckleberry and Maya the other day, a lifeguard made an interesting statement. Maya was a little afraid of jumping off the high-dive, so we decided to climb up there together. As this wasn't allowed, one of the lifeguards approached us, told me to climb down, and then told Maya that you have to take the most important steps in life on your own.
You have to take the most important steps of life on your own.
Hmm... I'm not too sure about this. He was right in the sense that only you can control what you do, the steps you take, the direction in which you go, and whether or not you jump. But on the other hand, especially in difficult times, you might, for whatever reason, be incapable of taking certain steps. You might just need someone there to take your hand, encourage you and help you.
Looking back on my life, there are about four or five major decisions/ steps/ changes that have occurred. Some were a result of personal initiative and taking steps on my own. But others were a result of someone helping me, and I know that had they not helped, I wouldn't have taken the necessary step.
So.
What do you guys think? Are you more the type who will throw yourself off the diving board, or do you need a little push? Why? How do you make decisions and take action?
It's something to think about.
You have to take the most important steps of life on your own.
Hmm... I'm not too sure about this. He was right in the sense that only you can control what you do, the steps you take, the direction in which you go, and whether or not you jump. But on the other hand, especially in difficult times, you might, for whatever reason, be incapable of taking certain steps. You might just need someone there to take your hand, encourage you and help you.
Looking back on my life, there are about four or five major decisions/ steps/ changes that have occurred. Some were a result of personal initiative and taking steps on my own. But others were a result of someone helping me, and I know that had they not helped, I wouldn't have taken the necessary step.
So.
What do you guys think? Are you more the type who will throw yourself off the diving board, or do you need a little push? Why? How do you make decisions and take action?
It's something to think about.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
This might be someone for you girls, hmm?
Here's a guy who won't mess with your mind, manipulate you, do stupid things or break your heart!
:)
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Sevelner Sunday
As promised, here are a couple of videos from our Tree-Climbing-And-Singing-Adventure last Sunday.
In this first video, everyone was singing "Lame Man." The Little Rascal is playing the guitar and Huckleberry is sitting on the right. Unfortunately the sound is off - must've been a problem with the uploading.
Well, the Beatles and Alanis Morissette officially have competition for my all-time favourite music group - check out this Musical Trio. :) I was showing Mariposa this video the other day, and we were laughing so hard we were crying (well, I was, at least). The best part is Sydney's Grand Whistling Finale. He takes his music very seriously, as you're about to see. :)
In this first video, everyone was singing "Lame Man." The Little Rascal is playing the guitar and Huckleberry is sitting on the right. Unfortunately the sound is off - must've been a problem with the uploading.
Well, the Beatles and Alanis Morissette officially have competition for my all-time favourite music group - check out this Musical Trio. :) I was showing Mariposa this video the other day, and we were laughing so hard we were crying (well, I was, at least). The best part is Sydney's Grand Whistling Finale. He takes his music very seriously, as you're about to see. :)
Monday, March 05, 2007
Pictures of my Favourite Kiddos :)
Here are some great Youth-Group Group-Photos, which should give you an idea of what my Favourite Kiddos are like. As always, click on the picture to make it larger.
Here we are around Christmas Time...
This was taken at Hohegrete one lazy Sunday afternoon.
Here I am with some of my favourite girls at IKEA.
This was taken during our tractor tour yesterday... we ended up not only climbing in the trees, but also singing in the trees. The guys even composed a lovely blues song for us girls. There are videos, but before posting I have to get approval from everyone. :)
I love my Kiddos!
Here we are around Christmas Time...This was taken at Hohegrete one lazy Sunday afternoon. Here I am with some of my favourite girls at IKEA. This was taken during our tractor tour yesterday... we ended up not only climbing in the trees, but also singing in the trees. The guys even composed a lovely blues song for us girls. There are videos, but before posting I have to get approval from everyone. :)I love my Kiddos!
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Interview... please pray!
Today I had an interview and it went very well, which was encouraging, as I'm seriously starting to lose my mind here.
So, to those of you who pray, please pray; those of you who think positive thoughts, please think positive thoughts.
It'd be really nice for something to work out. Really nice. Especially before the voices get louder and the colours get brighter.
So, to those of you who pray, please pray; those of you who think positive thoughts, please think positive thoughts.
It'd be really nice for something to work out. Really nice. Especially before the voices get louder and the colours get brighter.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Hand-Knit Psychadellic Socks!
This weekend, Eleanor gave Bizarro Mom and me some hand-knit socks, knit by Eleanor, the Master Knitter, herself. She's so good that she can simultaneously knit without looking, listen to a sermon, talk and eat chocolate. Talk about talent. :)
Aren't they lovely?
Aren't they lovely?
Thursday, February 22, 2007
On Improv Jazz Lessons and Music
Last Tuesday, I had my third Improvisational Piano Lesson, which was as fascinating as the first couple of lessons. Entirely new doors are being opened up in the Music Realm.
With classical lessons, the goal is to play exactly what's on the page. Playing forte instead of piano, refusing to play staccato, adding notes, removing notes, changing the rhythm, etc. is unacceptable.
But this time, during my first lesson, Fernando asked me what types of songs I want to play, how I want to play, and how I want to sound. *scratches her head* Basically, everything's open. Craziness. This week he brought me only the melody of a song and we worked on filling in the jazz chords. He showed me a couple of different ways I could play the piece...
Fernando: "Eh, play whatever chord you want... depends on what you like and what you feel like."
Mary: "Wow, ok. I think I like Amaj7 better than A7."
Fernando: "Me too... though there's really no wrong way to play it."
There's no wrong way. And in jazz, you don't even stick exactly with the original melody.
How can something so technical be so beautiful?
Improv reminds me of mathematical formulas, in a way: you have your basic note and chord patterns and scales, and when you follow these certain patterns and progressions, you end up with a lovely piece of music. All you need is to know the code and how/when/where to apply it. It's as if beauty can be broken down into mathematical-esque formulas.
With classical lessons, the goal is to play exactly what's on the page. Playing forte instead of piano, refusing to play staccato, adding notes, removing notes, changing the rhythm, etc. is unacceptable.
But this time, during my first lesson, Fernando asked me what types of songs I want to play, how I want to play, and how I want to sound. *scratches her head* Basically, everything's open. Craziness. This week he brought me only the melody of a song and we worked on filling in the jazz chords. He showed me a couple of different ways I could play the piece...
Fernando: "Eh, play whatever chord you want... depends on what you like and what you feel like."
Mary: "Wow, ok. I think I like Amaj7 better than A7."
Fernando: "Me too... though there's really no wrong way to play it."
There's no wrong way. And in jazz, you don't even stick exactly with the original melody.
How can something so technical be so beautiful?
Improv reminds me of mathematical formulas, in a way: you have your basic note and chord patterns and scales, and when you follow these certain patterns and progressions, you end up with a lovely piece of music. All you need is to know the code and how/when/where to apply it. It's as if beauty can be broken down into mathematical-esque formulas.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Hohegrete
It's nice when patterns develop and the Unknown slowly becomes the Known, which is what happened this weekend when I went to Hohegrete for the second time. Last year was great, as was this year.
Here are some high-lights from this year (if you're not sure who someone is, check out the List of Characters):
- getting to know everyone even better
- good talks with various people
- having strangers ask Bizarro Mom and Mr. P if I'm their daughter and having them kind of look at eachother, consider it for a moment, then answer with a semi-yes. :)
- taking walks through the woods
- taking a looong walk with Daisy into a neighboring town, which included fighting our way through private gardens, muddy fields, raging rivers, tunnels, and strange people-less neighborhoods, all in the dark of night. :)
- knitting a scarf with Eleanor
- building a campfire and singing praise songs with Huckleberry, Daisy and the Little Rascal
- interesting, practical seminars
- laughing hysterically about everything from the youth's crazy shenanigans to Eleanor's off-the-wall comments to Bizarro Mom's table manners (or lack thereof). :)
- taking black-mail photos, muahahaha!
- noticing that my age and my immaturity are inversely related... that is, being more immature and free and playful than I've ever been in my entire life. I guess I have to somehow make up for that paranoid-stressed-out-self-conscious child/teenhood.
- observing people and realizing how important body language and the way you carry yourself is in communication
- having excellent examples of God-following-and-fearing people
- sneaking away to play the piano
- finally matching names and faces
Unfortunately, there were a couple of negatives this year as well...
- excruciating stomach ache due to multiple causes
- the fact that Syd stayed home to study and such... even though we missed you, you made the right decision. :)
'Twas a lovely weekend; I'm truly blessed to have such wonderful people in my life.
Here are some high-lights from this year (if you're not sure who someone is, check out the List of Characters):
- getting to know everyone even better
- good talks with various people
- having strangers ask Bizarro Mom and Mr. P if I'm their daughter and having them kind of look at eachother, consider it for a moment, then answer with a semi-yes. :)
- taking walks through the woods
- taking a looong walk with Daisy into a neighboring town, which included fighting our way through private gardens, muddy fields, raging rivers, tunnels, and strange people-less neighborhoods, all in the dark of night. :)
- knitting a scarf with Eleanor
- building a campfire and singing praise songs with Huckleberry, Daisy and the Little Rascal
- interesting, practical seminars
- laughing hysterically about everything from the youth's crazy shenanigans to Eleanor's off-the-wall comments to Bizarro Mom's table manners (or lack thereof). :)
- taking black-mail photos, muahahaha!
- noticing that my age and my immaturity are inversely related... that is, being more immature and free and playful than I've ever been in my entire life. I guess I have to somehow make up for that paranoid-stressed-out-self-conscious child/teenhood.
- observing people and realizing how important body language and the way you carry yourself is in communication
- having excellent examples of God-following-and-fearing people
- sneaking away to play the piano
- finally matching names and faces
Unfortunately, there were a couple of negatives this year as well...
- excruciating stomach ache due to multiple causes
- the fact that Syd stayed home to study and such... even though we missed you, you made the right decision. :)
'Twas a lovely weekend; I'm truly blessed to have such wonderful people in my life.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
When you wish upon a star...
I think I might have seen a shooting star* this evening while standing outside on the balcony. A little something shimmered, streaked downwards, trailed for a second, then disappeared. It all happened so quickly that I didn't really even have time to make a wish.
Can you wish upon a star post-facto? Is that allowed?
I decided to give it a try, but then I couldn't decide what to wish for, as there are about two or three current wishes (plus, I'm horrible at decision making). After pondering a moment and attempting to somehow prioritize my wishes, I realized it was most likely too late by now; the star had died out a few minutes ago. Or, a few weeks/ months/ years/ whatever ago, depending upon how far away it was.
What if the actual time of shooting was last summer, when I used to make wishes on dandelions* when no one was looking? Wouldn't it be a strange coincidence if the shooting star shined its last shimmer just as I watched the last dandelion seed dance away in the summer wind? Maybe those summer wishes will count double and come true after all. :)
Do you have to wish upon a star at the actual point it shoots, or at the point where you see it shoot? Because there's quite a time difference there, though time is relative.
*shrugs her shoulders*
*Sternschnuppe
**Pusteblume
Can you wish upon a star post-facto? Is that allowed?
I decided to give it a try, but then I couldn't decide what to wish for, as there are about two or three current wishes (plus, I'm horrible at decision making). After pondering a moment and attempting to somehow prioritize my wishes, I realized it was most likely too late by now; the star had died out a few minutes ago. Or, a few weeks/ months/ years/ whatever ago, depending upon how far away it was.
What if the actual time of shooting was last summer, when I used to make wishes on dandelions* when no one was looking? Wouldn't it be a strange coincidence if the shooting star shined its last shimmer just as I watched the last dandelion seed dance away in the summer wind? Maybe those summer wishes will count double and come true after all. :)
Do you have to wish upon a star at the actual point it shoots, or at the point where you see it shoot? Because there's quite a time difference there, though time is relative.
*shrugs her shoulders*
*Sternschnuppe
**Pusteblume
Monday, February 12, 2007
The Boy Update Post (or, Aidlinger Schwestern, Here I Come!)
Guys STRESS ME OUT!!!
Mariposa is currently studying and living with a well-known group of German nuns, the Aidlinger Schwestern, and I'm seriously thinking that becoming a nun is a decent idea. Here are the benefits:
- nuns don't have guy drama
- guys generally don't stalk nuns
- nuns live together
- nuns are like communists, except better
- nuns don't have to worry about what they wear
Liz*: "Mary, we just need to get away from guys."
Mary: "I know! Sometimes I want to pull my hair out!"
Liz: "All of this is just BLAH! Paul was right."
Mary: "Yeah, we should start a Nunnery."
Liz: "Having a Significant Other can distract us from GOD."
Mary: "Can I start calling you Sister Lizzy?"
Liz: "Yes! I like the Nunnery idea. My new motto is, 'No Boys, No Problems.'"
Mary: "I once saw 'Boys are mean. Throw rocks at them.' on a t-shirt."
Liz: "I'm going to get a bull-dozer and get a huge stone to throw at them! A boulder!"
Mary: "YEAH! Me too! Or I'll bake a nice Arsenic Cake."
Liz: "When I think about us girls doing girly stuff together, I feel better."
Mary: "Yeah... too bad we're so far away from eachother now..."
I'm going to start a Nun Revolution, baby! I'm going to be the craziest, most eccentric nun ever. I'm going to be a jazz-piano-playing-Jesus-loving-hookah-smoking-bilingual nun with an amethyst nose stud. Make way, Aidlinger Schwestern, here I come!!!
*my old roomie's younger sister, who's also one of my dearest friends :)
Mariposa is currently studying and living with a well-known group of German nuns, the Aidlinger Schwestern, and I'm seriously thinking that becoming a nun is a decent idea. Here are the benefits:
- nuns don't have guy drama
- guys generally don't stalk nuns
- nuns live together
- nuns are like communists, except better
- nuns don't have to worry about what they wear
Liz*: "Mary, we just need to get away from guys."
Mary: "I know! Sometimes I want to pull my hair out!"
Liz: "All of this is just BLAH! Paul was right."
Mary: "Yeah, we should start a Nunnery."
Liz: "Having a Significant Other can distract us from GOD."
Mary: "Can I start calling you Sister Lizzy?"
Liz: "Yes! I like the Nunnery idea. My new motto is, 'No Boys, No Problems.'"
Mary: "I once saw 'Boys are mean. Throw rocks at them.' on a t-shirt."
Liz: "I'm going to get a bull-dozer and get a huge stone to throw at them! A boulder!"
Mary: "YEAH! Me too! Or I'll bake a nice Arsenic Cake."
Liz: "When I think about us girls doing girly stuff together, I feel better."
Mary: "Yeah... too bad we're so far away from eachother now..."
I'm going to start a Nun Revolution, baby! I'm going to be the craziest, most eccentric nun ever. I'm going to be a jazz-piano-playing-Jesus-loving-hookah-smoking-bilingual nun with an amethyst nose stud. Make way, Aidlinger Schwestern, here I come!!!
*my old roomie's younger sister, who's also one of my dearest friends :)
Sunday, February 11, 2007
All you need is Music*
The more experience I have with music, the more I realize just how lovely, important and powerful it is. For exapmle, it has a way of bringing people together, of evaporating barriers between people, of bridging the generation gap.
A perfect example was at Huckleberry and Mariposa's grandparents' house last weekend. There was a certain song their Grandma really wanted me to play, which I managed to learn rather spontaneously. As she was singing it, I think she even had tears in her eyes. The power of music and lyrics never ceases to amaze me.
The other day at church, I was amazed by the intelligent conversation I had with an 11 year old about music and such. He's been taking piano lessing for a while and plays classical music absolutely beautifully, but his mother wants him to be able to improvise. So, we talked and shared stories about piano lessons, practicing, motivation, and the general direction in which he wants to develop. An 11 year old!
Friday afternoons, I'll usually play the piano at church when the kids are having youth group. They'll often stop by and talk with me or ask me to play a certain song or simply listen. Some of the kiddos are pretty rough-around-the-edges with your typical "cool" facade, but they'll come and talk or hang out with me when I'm playing the piano.
All that to say... music has a way of connecting people and bringing them together and it's wonderful.
*sung to the tune of All you need is Love by the Beatles :)
A perfect example was at Huckleberry and Mariposa's grandparents' house last weekend. There was a certain song their Grandma really wanted me to play, which I managed to learn rather spontaneously. As she was singing it, I think she even had tears in her eyes. The power of music and lyrics never ceases to amaze me.
The other day at church, I was amazed by the intelligent conversation I had with an 11 year old about music and such. He's been taking piano lessing for a while and plays classical music absolutely beautifully, but his mother wants him to be able to improvise. So, we talked and shared stories about piano lessons, practicing, motivation, and the general direction in which he wants to develop. An 11 year old!
Friday afternoons, I'll usually play the piano at church when the kids are having youth group. They'll often stop by and talk with me or ask me to play a certain song or simply listen. Some of the kiddos are pretty rough-around-the-edges with your typical "cool" facade, but they'll come and talk or hang out with me when I'm playing the piano.
All that to say... music has a way of connecting people and bringing them together and it's wonderful.
*sung to the tune of All you need is Love by the Beatles :)
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
The Adventures of Huckleberry, Scaramouche and Mary
Sunday evening was seriously one of the craziest and funniest evenings ever. After visiting Mariposa in southern Germany this weekend, what should have been a 4.5 hour drive home with Huckleberry turned into a 7-or-so hour crisis. 'Twas but a fun and entertaining crisis.
It all started out peaceful and innocent enough... driving through the lovely German country side, talking, eating chocolates and listening to music. By the way, The White Stripes is probably the only band whose sound is actually improved when listened to on old, trashed-out car speakers. But when we decided to switch drivers at the next gas station, Scaramouche wouldn't start up. After trying practically everything possible, including being helped by a mechanic with jumper cables, Huckleberry wiggled a few cables around and she miraculously started.
Normal people would have simply driven home at this point; the story should have ended here. But are we normal? And did it end here? No and nooooooo. Of course not. :)
Huckleberry: "We're getting close to Siegburg, where I was in the military last year... do you want to see the barracks?"
Mary: "Yeah, definitely." *thinks it'd be interesting to compare it to Paris Island, where Dad was in the military*
Huckleberry: "It'll be about a ten minute detour."
Mary: "Ten minutes... that's not bad. We have time."
Ten minutes. Hahaha. Little did we know.
Instead of simply driving by the barracks and looking, we took a detour from our detour and drove to a place called Michael'sPlatz Berg, which is on top of a little mountain where you can look out over the city. Scaramouche made it up the mountain; we wandered around and looked down at the city; it was all fun and lovely until we got back to the car...
Huckleberry: *looks at me with a funny face* "Oooh, the car won't start."
Mary: "Stop it! That's not a joking matter."
Huckleberry: "No, it really won't start."
Mary: "Das Leben..."
The first time Scaramouche acted up, we were at a nice, lit-up gas station and could easily get help... but this time, we were at the top of some semi-secluded mountain; his cell phone battery was practically dead; I had 88 Euro Cents on my cell phone; and wiggling the cables around didn't seem to help.
We managed to roll the car part-way down the hill under a lamppost, and thanks to Mr. E, we knew approximately what had to be done. At one point I was even under the car, tinkering around, while the motor was running (Dad, are you proud or what??). Huckleberry decided to give it one last try, but when things started sparking, metal pieces started flying, and it looked like he was electrocuting himself, I kind of freaked out and told him we ought to call it an evening.
Huckleberry: "Looks like we're going to have to take the train home... but trains are fun."
Mary: "Ok, let's get the important stuff out of the car..."
Huckleberry: "And let's roll it to a legal parking space..."
Mary: "But first, let's try to turn it on once more."
Huckleberry: "Sure, why not?" *turns the key in the ignition*
Scaramouche: "I'M ALIVE!"
Yes, she started up again. Just like that. It was the strangest thing.
This time, however, we unanimously decided not to stop the car... no matter how many interesting sights there were to see on the way home.
When we reached the Moers-Huelsdonk Exit*, which looked especially bright and beautiful that evening, he suggested we drive around a little more just for fun, but it was pushing 1 AM, the CD was coming to an end, and we were both pretty dirty and tired.
'Twas quite the adventure.
Here are some pictures... enjoy. :)
*our exit for Neukirchen-Vluyn
It all started out peaceful and innocent enough... driving through the lovely German country side, talking, eating chocolates and listening to music. By the way, The White Stripes is probably the only band whose sound is actually improved when listened to on old, trashed-out car speakers. But when we decided to switch drivers at the next gas station, Scaramouche wouldn't start up. After trying practically everything possible, including being helped by a mechanic with jumper cables, Huckleberry wiggled a few cables around and she miraculously started.
Normal people would have simply driven home at this point; the story should have ended here. But are we normal? And did it end here? No and nooooooo. Of course not. :)
Huckleberry: "We're getting close to Siegburg, where I was in the military last year... do you want to see the barracks?"
Mary: "Yeah, definitely." *thinks it'd be interesting to compare it to Paris Island, where Dad was in the military*
Huckleberry: "It'll be about a ten minute detour."
Mary: "Ten minutes... that's not bad. We have time."
Ten minutes. Hahaha. Little did we know.
Instead of simply driving by the barracks and looking, we took a detour from our detour and drove to a place called Michael's
Huckleberry: *looks at me with a funny face* "Oooh, the car won't start."
Mary: "Stop it! That's not a joking matter."
Huckleberry: "No, it really won't start."
Mary: "Das Leben..."
The first time Scaramouche acted up, we were at a nice, lit-up gas station and could easily get help... but this time, we were at the top of some semi-secluded mountain; his cell phone battery was practically dead; I had 88 Euro Cents on my cell phone; and wiggling the cables around didn't seem to help.
We managed to roll the car part-way down the hill under a lamppost, and thanks to Mr. E, we knew approximately what had to be done. At one point I was even under the car, tinkering around, while the motor was running (Dad, are you proud or what??). Huckleberry decided to give it one last try, but when things started sparking, metal pieces started flying, and it looked like he was electrocuting himself, I kind of freaked out and told him we ought to call it an evening.
Huckleberry: "Looks like we're going to have to take the train home... but trains are fun."
Mary: "Ok, let's get the important stuff out of the car..."
Huckleberry: "And let's roll it to a legal parking space..."
Mary: "But first, let's try to turn it on once more."
Huckleberry: "Sure, why not?" *turns the key in the ignition*
Scaramouche: "I'M ALIVE!"
Yes, she started up again. Just like that. It was the strangest thing.
This time, however, we unanimously decided not to stop the car... no matter how many interesting sights there were to see on the way home.
When we reached the Moers-Huelsdonk Exit*, which looked especially bright and beautiful that evening, he suggested we drive around a little more just for fun, but it was pushing 1 AM, the CD was coming to an end, and we were both pretty dirty and tired.
'Twas quite the adventure.
Here are some pictures... enjoy. :)
*our exit for Neukirchen-Vluyn
Monday, February 05, 2007
Back home!
Well, Huckleberry and I made it home after visiting Mariposa in southern Germany this weekend. And it was a miracle that we made it home. I really ought to get some sleep, so I'll write about our little adventure later... but here's what it involved, to give you a preview:
- jumper cables
- really dirty (and cold) hands
- Huckleberry almost getting electrocuted
- lots of laughing
Hehe, life is never dull here.
- jumper cables
- really dirty (and cold) hands
- Huckleberry almost getting electrocuted
- lots of laughing
Hehe, life is never dull here.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Sad Duesseldorf Experience and Thoughts on the current work situation in Germany
I had an interview in downtown Duesseldorf* today and had quite a sad experience.
As background information, let me just say that the general work situation here is very different from that of the States. German employees are more protected than American employees in the sense that it's difficult for an employer to lay someone off. Because of these employee protection laws, employers are much more reluctant to actually hire people because they know that once someone's on board, it's next to impossible to get rid of them. Although it's much more difficult to find a job here than in the States, at least you know that when you do have a job, you're relatively secure. Ok... my situation is different** in that the company went bankrupt and doesn't exist anymore. But as long as the company exists, it must take care of its employees.
As a result, there's been a practically exponential growth of temp-agencies*** over the past decade or so. Of course, this is great for the employer: they can test people out before hiring them or can hire someone temporarily. And it's great for the temp-agencies, as they deduct a hefty chunk of your salary. And for your Average Jobless Joe? Not so good, folks. He's gets a temporary position and earns half his salary.
Back to the sad moment in Duesseldorf today. With my suit and high-heels, I must've looked half-way grown-up and professional because I was approached by a sad-looking and somewhat shabby lady.
Lady: "Excuse me, mam?"
Mary: "Yes...?"
Lady: "I'm looking for work... do you need help with cleaning or taking care of your household?"
Mary: *not sure if she's heard correctly* "Excuse me?"
Lady: "I'm just looking for work and am wondering if you have anything I could do."
Mary: "I'm sorry, but I really don't..."
Lady: "Do you have sweet children? I could help take care of your children."
Mary: "No, I'm sorry, I don't... I don't have any work..."
Lady: "I'm just a musician, looking for something else to do as well..."
Mary: "I'm sorry... I can't help... I'm really sorry."
What do you say in a situation like that?
I was so taken aback that all I did was apologize.
When thinking about it later, I realized how deceiving outer appearances can be. She assumed I was older, had things together, was somehow established, had a house, maybe had kids, would be able to hire someone, could somehow give her a job. No! Wrong! Just because I can parade around in a stupid stuffy suit in the downtown business area doesn't mean I have things together. Not at all. I'm young (well, age is relative), don't have things together, am not established, am frequently confused, am not a homeowner, don't have kids, don't have the means to hire someone, and am looking for work myself.
I wanted to give her a hug and tell her that we're on exactly the same level and that I wasn't actually on my way to work, but on my way to another interview... but I was so taken aback and then she disappeared. So I just stood there and could have kicked myself.
Life is so freaking sad and weird sometimes.
*a huge German city with an international airport, about 35 km away from my little town
**as always... me and my situations being weird/different... the Story of my Life. But hey, at least it's rarely boring.
***Zeitarbeitsfirmen, Personalberatungsfirmen
As background information, let me just say that the general work situation here is very different from that of the States. German employees are more protected than American employees in the sense that it's difficult for an employer to lay someone off. Because of these employee protection laws, employers are much more reluctant to actually hire people because they know that once someone's on board, it's next to impossible to get rid of them. Although it's much more difficult to find a job here than in the States, at least you know that when you do have a job, you're relatively secure. Ok... my situation is different** in that the company went bankrupt and doesn't exist anymore. But as long as the company exists, it must take care of its employees.
As a result, there's been a practically exponential growth of temp-agencies*** over the past decade or so. Of course, this is great for the employer: they can test people out before hiring them or can hire someone temporarily. And it's great for the temp-agencies, as they deduct a hefty chunk of your salary. And for your Average Jobless Joe? Not so good, folks. He's gets a temporary position and earns half his salary.
Back to the sad moment in Duesseldorf today. With my suit and high-heels, I must've looked half-way grown-up and professional because I was approached by a sad-looking and somewhat shabby lady.
Lady: "Excuse me, mam?"
Mary: "Yes...?"
Lady: "I'm looking for work... do you need help with cleaning or taking care of your household?"
Mary: *not sure if she's heard correctly* "Excuse me?"
Lady: "I'm just looking for work and am wondering if you have anything I could do."
Mary: "I'm sorry, but I really don't..."
Lady: "Do you have sweet children? I could help take care of your children."
Mary: "No, I'm sorry, I don't... I don't have any work..."
Lady: "I'm just a musician, looking for something else to do as well..."
Mary: "I'm sorry... I can't help... I'm really sorry."
What do you say in a situation like that?
I was so taken aback that all I did was apologize.
When thinking about it later, I realized how deceiving outer appearances can be. She assumed I was older, had things together, was somehow established, had a house, maybe had kids, would be able to hire someone, could somehow give her a job. No! Wrong! Just because I can parade around in a stupid stuffy suit in the downtown business area doesn't mean I have things together. Not at all. I'm young (well, age is relative), don't have things together, am not established, am frequently confused, am not a homeowner, don't have kids, don't have the means to hire someone, and am looking for work myself.
I wanted to give her a hug and tell her that we're on exactly the same level and that I wasn't actually on my way to work, but on my way to another interview... but I was so taken aback and then she disappeared. So I just stood there and could have kicked myself.
Life is so freaking sad and weird sometimes.
*a huge German city with an international airport, about 35 km away from my little town
**as always... me and my situations being weird/different... the Story of my Life. But hey, at least it's rarely boring.
***Zeitarbeitsfirmen, Personalberatungsfirmen
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Improv Jazz Piano! (Or, Ode to Chopin)
Well, it looks like I'm going to be taking improv jazz piano lessons, believe it or not! Today, several people who are interested in piano lessons met with the piano teacher, and it went pretty well. He said that to improvise, it's best to have a solid classical background, which is what I'd like to think I have. So... there's some hope here.
The teacher... let's call him Fernando ... seems like a pretty laid-back and decent Kerl. When he first played a few improv pieces, I honestly wasn't that impressed, probably because I'm used to Syd's chaotically beautiful compositions. We'll give Fernando the benefit of the doubt, though.
But I was definitely impressed with some of his classical playing... his runs are very professional... one particular classical piece was primarily comprised of complicated runs and he played it extremely smoothly and gracefully (think: no pauses, unecessary volume changes, skipped notes, weird intonations, etc), which can be quite difficult.
And then... he said that his favourite composer is... Chopin!
*jumps up and down*
I remember sitting in my bedroom as a little girl, listening to a cassette of his preludes and just crying and crying... first, because it was so beautiful and second, because I thought I'd never in my life be able to play a Chopin piece.
Anyway.
He played a bit of a Nocturne, which was a lovely piece. Though I was hoping for one of the wild etudes or preludes. Eh, maybe next time.
Lessons are going to start this coming week, and I'm curious and excited to see how things turn out. This could open up an entirely new door in Pallas Athena's Blissful World of Music.
Ah, my man Freddie. If he were alive and touring, I'd be a totally pathetic groupie.
Ode to Chopin
There was once a composer named Freddie
With music romantic and lovely
He composed and he wrote
The most gorgeous of notes
But alas, I will ne'er be a groupie.
The teacher... let's call him Fernando ... seems like a pretty laid-back and decent Kerl. When he first played a few improv pieces, I honestly wasn't that impressed, probably because I'm used to Syd's chaotically beautiful compositions. We'll give Fernando the benefit of the doubt, though.
But I was definitely impressed with some of his classical playing... his runs are very professional... one particular classical piece was primarily comprised of complicated runs and he played it extremely smoothly and gracefully (think: no pauses, unecessary volume changes, skipped notes, weird intonations, etc), which can be quite difficult.
And then... he said that his favourite composer is... Chopin!
*jumps up and down*
I remember sitting in my bedroom as a little girl, listening to a cassette of his preludes and just crying and crying... first, because it was so beautiful and second, because I thought I'd never in my life be able to play a Chopin piece.
Anyway.
He played a bit of a Nocturne, which was a lovely piece. Though I was hoping for one of the wild etudes or preludes. Eh, maybe next time.
Lessons are going to start this coming week, and I'm curious and excited to see how things turn out. This could open up an entirely new door in Pallas Athena's Blissful World of Music.
Ah, my man Freddie. If he were alive and touring, I'd be a totally pathetic groupie.
There was once a composer named Freddie
With music romantic and lovely
He composed and he wrote
The most gorgeous of notes
But alas, I will ne'er be a groupie.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Home Videos...
*sigh*
Here are a couple of videos that are actually more for my Dear German Readers, as most of my Dear American Readers know my family and have been in my house already...
This first one shows the general lay-out of our house. You can see Emita playing Pride and Prejudice music on the piano, which was absolutely beautiful. The video doesn't quite capture it. :) Mom was working in the kitchen and Kat was upstairs wrapping Christmas presents.
In this one, Tiny didn't realize I was taping... thus the strange pose. And no matter how much my sisters try to say "Neukirchen", they can't pronounce it correctly. :)
This was taken by Mom at Emita's house... she and her roommates have this strange shelf-thing that you can crawl behind. We both managed to squeeze behind there, and Mom taped us crawling back out. It's silly, but it's fun. :) And yes, that's Kenny rolling his eyes at us in the background.
No, just because I published these doesn't mean I'm still homesick. As a matter of fact, I've been in an abnormally positive and upbeat state lately. There's been quite a bit going on (in reality as well as mentally, though sometimes it's difficult to differentiate between the two realms)... but things are looking more positive. In a non-brainwashed or drug-induced way, which is also good. :)
Here are a couple of videos that are actually more for my Dear German Readers, as most of my Dear American Readers know my family and have been in my house already...
This first one shows the general lay-out of our house. You can see Emita playing Pride and Prejudice music on the piano, which was absolutely beautiful. The video doesn't quite capture it. :) Mom was working in the kitchen and Kat was upstairs wrapping Christmas presents.
In this one, Tiny didn't realize I was taping... thus the strange pose. And no matter how much my sisters try to say "Neukirchen", they can't pronounce it correctly. :)
This was taken by Mom at Emita's house... she and her roommates have this strange shelf-thing that you can crawl behind. We both managed to squeeze behind there, and Mom taped us crawling back out. It's silly, but it's fun. :) And yes, that's Kenny rolling his eyes at us in the background.
No, just because I published these doesn't mean I'm still homesick. As a matter of fact, I've been in an abnormally positive and upbeat state lately. There's been quite a bit going on (in reality as well as mentally, though sometimes it's difficult to differentiate between the two realms)... but things are looking more positive. In a non-brainwashed or drug-induced way, which is also good. :)
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Please
Please grant me wisdom, pure and bright,
That I might grasp Your heart's delight
And wisely execute Your plan,
Disregarding Self's demands.
Please give me strength to trust and wait,
To know that You control my fate.
I'll play my piece as best I can,
But recognize You're in command.
Please grant me peace with the Unknowns,
And What's-to-Comes and Whys and Whens
And Speculations and What-Ifs
And Whos and Wheres that never end.
Please let my eyes see only You,
Transfixed on beauty, power, truth,
A life engaged and present-living,
Balanced with eternal-thinking.
Please help me, Love, to love You only,
Truly, purely and completely,
Oblivious to pools and mirrors
Of self-absorption, wants and fears.
That I might grasp Your heart's delight
And wisely execute Your plan,
Disregarding Self's demands.
Please give me strength to trust and wait,
To know that You control my fate.
I'll play my piece as best I can,
But recognize You're in command.
Please grant me peace with the Unknowns,
And What's-to-Comes and Whys and Whens
And Speculations and What-Ifs
And Whos and Wheres that never end.
Please let my eyes see only You,
Transfixed on beauty, power, truth,
A life engaged and present-living,
Balanced with eternal-thinking.
Please help me, Love, to love You only,
Truly, purely and completely,
Oblivious to pools and mirrors
Of self-absorption, wants and fears.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Random Thoughts and Observations and Updates
Yesterday, I installed a new finance program on my computer. It's like Shelby Systems (the system used by my Texas church) but in German!
I have a new Project... we'll just call it Finance Project X. :)
Some people are pack-rats to the extent of needing serious psychological intervention. We're talking about dirt everywhere. Multiple washing machines. Hundreds of glass bottles. 20 years worth of glass bottles. Horrid smells. Floods of newspapers from decades gone by. Church pews. If you can help it, please be clean and throw stuff away.
Did you guys know that kiwis grow on trees and have stems?
Saturday evening was another typical evening in the Center of the Universe... sitting on the kitchen floor, eating chocolate and kiwis, and talking about random things such as feet and the German Constitution.
I miss Mariposa.
Syd has gotten ruder and ruder. For example , he told me that if the Torte I'd just made had been on a cooking show, it would have failed. And he suggested I was deaf (well how about YOU try listening to multiple people simultaneously talk to you in a foreign language... though German is slowly becoming a not-so-foreign-language). But I still like him. :)
For the first time in a very long time, I felt like Jesus was somehow speaking directly to me. So much so that I, em, kind of broke down in tears. But they weren't necessarily sad tears.
One of the many things I love about life here is the fact that the environment itself seems to foster learning.
Huckleberry broke one of my plates and turned it into a lovely piece of artwork, which is now hanging in the kitchen.
"Sahnesteif", a recent discovery I've made, is a a type of powder you can mix into whipping cream to prevent it from turning runny so quickly. And it really works.
I realized this weekend how lovely classical music is and how much I miss playing it...
Rock covers of traditional hymns are awesome... until you try to immitate them right after the church service when the elderly folks are trying to drink their coffee in peace and quiet and you get scolded by Eleanor. :)
I've been sorting and reading through old journals (am almost done with 1998) and there's some crazy stuff in there. It's weird seeing what/how I thought nine years ago when I was 14 years old... and ironically enough, there are some thought patterns and themes that have continued with me until this day...
One thing I've always loved about our church is the fact that it's like a huge family... one day I'll be all goofy and immature w/ the youth; the next day I'll be invited to an elderly couple's house to play their organ and have an elegently gourmet dinner; and the next day I'll do something "normal" with people closer to my own age. :)
My dearest Texas friend is now dating someone, which is odd because as long as I've known her she's been single. And he's 4.5 years younger than she is...
The hotel I lived in when I first moved here is still up and running. Our Post-Choir-Drinking-Group enjoyed wine and cappuccino there yesterday evening.
This week has been encouraging and things are looking more upbeat and positive.
I still don't have a job.
The authorities are still trying to decide what to do with me and my living permit.
The world is actually rather small, life is rather short, and eternity is rather long... so there's really no reason to freak out.
I have a new Project... we'll just call it Finance Project X. :)
Some people are pack-rats to the extent of needing serious psychological intervention. We're talking about dirt everywhere. Multiple washing machines. Hundreds of glass bottles. 20 years worth of glass bottles. Horrid smells. Floods of newspapers from decades gone by. Church pews. If you can help it, please be clean and throw stuff away.
Did you guys know that kiwis grow on trees and have stems?
Saturday evening was another typical evening in the Center of the Universe... sitting on the kitchen floor, eating chocolate and kiwis, and talking about random things such as feet and the German Constitution.
I miss Mariposa.
Syd has gotten ruder and ruder. For example , he told me that if the Torte I'd just made had been on a cooking show, it would have failed. And he suggested I was deaf (well how about YOU try listening to multiple people simultaneously talk to you in a foreign language... though German is slowly becoming a not-so-foreign-language). But I still like him. :)
For the first time in a very long time, I felt like Jesus was somehow speaking directly to me. So much so that I, em, kind of broke down in tears. But they weren't necessarily sad tears.
One of the many things I love about life here is the fact that the environment itself seems to foster learning.
Huckleberry broke one of my plates and turned it into a lovely piece of artwork, which is now hanging in the kitchen.
"Sahnesteif", a recent discovery I've made, is a a type of powder you can mix into whipping cream to prevent it from turning runny so quickly. And it really works.
I realized this weekend how lovely classical music is and how much I miss playing it...
Rock covers of traditional hymns are awesome... until you try to immitate them right after the church service when the elderly folks are trying to drink their coffee in peace and quiet and you get scolded by Eleanor. :)
I've been sorting and reading through old journals (am almost done with 1998) and there's some crazy stuff in there. It's weird seeing what/how I thought nine years ago when I was 14 years old... and ironically enough, there are some thought patterns and themes that have continued with me until this day...
One thing I've always loved about our church is the fact that it's like a huge family... one day I'll be all goofy and immature w/ the youth; the next day I'll be invited to an elderly couple's house to play their organ and have an elegently gourmet dinner; and the next day I'll do something "normal" with people closer to my own age. :)
My dearest Texas friend is now dating someone, which is odd because as long as I've known her she's been single. And he's 4.5 years younger than she is...
The hotel I lived in when I first moved here is still up and running. Our Post-Choir-Drinking-Group enjoyed wine and cappuccino there yesterday evening.
This week has been encouraging and things are looking more upbeat and positive.
I still don't have a job.
The authorities are still trying to decide what to do with me and my living permit.
The world is actually rather small, life is rather short, and eternity is rather long... so there's really no reason to freak out.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Driver's Licenses (plural!!)
*cackles an evil laugh*
I'd like to relay the following message to the German Government:
NA NA NA NA NA NA!
And the following message to My Mamita:
Thank you! I love and miss you!
I'd like to relay the following message to the German Government:
NA NA NA NA NA NA!
And the following message to My Mamita:
Thank you! I love and miss you!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Mailbox of DOOM
Over the last several months, I've developed a deep hatred for my mailbox. It started with a few job rejection letters here and there. Ok. Not a huge deal.
But then there are the other letters...
For example, I received a letter from my insurance company back in the day.
Letter: Frau Barber, this is a letter warning you that we're going to extract 700+ Euros from your bank account for car insurance in the coming month. Just to give you a heads-up."
Mary: "WHAT?? I've been biking to work, drenched in sweat (and occasionally rain) for the past three months cause I don't even have my driver's license. And now you're telling me I have to pay INSURANCE?!?"
Then there was the lovely letter from BenQ.
Letter: Frau Barber, though you've already been told by your boss that you're out of a job, and though you moved all your crap out of the office yesterday, this letter is being sent to you so that you have an official written notice for your personal files. You're fired."
Mary: *sniff sniff*
At the beginning of January, I received a letter from some lawyer in Munich about Insolvency. Like I can afford a lawyer. Well, maybe I could if car insurance weren't so freaking expensive...
Two days ago, I received a letter from the Foreigner's Office.
Letter: "Frau Barber, we originally gave you three years on your visa, but because you're out of a job, we're going to have to shorten your visa.* Please contact us as soon as possible."
Mary: "As if things aren't frustrating and discouraging enough, now I have Big Brother stalking me. LEAVE ME ALONE DARN IT."
I guess it could be worse. Instead of a threatening letter I could have received a knock on my door from an Evil Government Spawn of Hades with a tranquilizer gun, a straight jacket, and a ticket back to the States.
*kick you out of the country
But then there are the other letters...
For example, I received a letter from my insurance company back in the day.
Letter: Frau Barber, this is a letter warning you that we're going to extract 700+ Euros from your bank account for car insurance in the coming month. Just to give you a heads-up."
Mary: "WHAT?? I've been biking to work, drenched in sweat (and occasionally rain) for the past three months cause I don't even have my driver's license. And now you're telling me I have to pay INSURANCE?!?"
Then there was the lovely letter from BenQ.
Letter: Frau Barber, though you've already been told by your boss that you're out of a job, and though you moved all your crap out of the office yesterday, this letter is being sent to you so that you have an official written notice for your personal files. You're fired."
Mary: *sniff sniff*
At the beginning of January, I received a letter from some lawyer in Munich about Insolvency. Like I can afford a lawyer. Well, maybe I could if car insurance weren't so freaking expensive...
Two days ago, I received a letter from the Foreigner's Office.
Letter: "Frau Barber, we originally gave you three years on your visa, but because you're out of a job, we're going to have to shorten your visa.* Please contact us as soon as possible."
Mary: "As if things aren't frustrating and discouraging enough, now I have Big Brother stalking me. LEAVE ME ALONE DARN IT."
I guess it could be worse. Instead of a threatening letter I could have received a knock on my door from an Evil Government Spawn of Hades with a tranquilizer gun, a straight jacket, and a ticket back to the States.
*kick you out of the country
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
On Family and Replacements
I miss my family... and people are always surprised that I live here "alone."
Guy: "Do you have any relatives or family here?"
Mary: "Em, no..."
Bizarro Mom: "You have ME!!!"
*gives me a hug*
Mary: "Right, my Ersatz-mama!"
Syd: "Mary has three families... her Texas Family, her German Replacement Family and her International Spiritual Christian Family."
Mary: "Hmm, true..."
Huckelberry: *continues punching holes in a notecard*
I think I miss my family so much because I was recently home... and because they're such kind, loving, normal people.
As you can see in this picture, my dad and I have a very gentle, loving, healthy relationship.
Katinka is always so proper and lady-like...
You'll definitely see the sisterly resemblance between me and my Emita in the next two pictures:
As Bizarro dropped me off at the airport before Christmas, we had the following exchange:
Mary: "I'm really going to miss you guys over Christmas..."
Bizarro: "But you have good replacements."
Mary: "Wait, who's replacing whom?"
Is it possible to have a Replacement Family for a Replacement Family?
Youth: "Syd, please play the piano so we can sing!"
Syd: "No, let's sing without the piano this time..."
Youth: "Please! Please! Please!"
Syd: "I don't want to... and what are you guys going to do when I'm gone next year?"
Youth: "Mary will play. You're REPLACEABLE."
Which is absolutely false. No one is replaceable. No person, no family, no one.
When I'm in Germany, I miss my family. When I'm in Texas, I realize how much I love and miss everyone here.
So ist das Leben.
Guy: "Do you have any relatives or family here?"
Mary: "Em, no..."
Bizarro Mom: "You have ME!!!"
*gives me a hug*
Mary: "Right, my Ersatz-mama!"
Syd: "Mary has three families... her Texas Family, her German Replacement Family and her International Spiritual Christian Family."
Mary: "Hmm, true..."
Huckelberry: *continues punching holes in a notecard*
I think I miss my family so much because I was recently home... and because they're such kind, loving, normal people.
As you can see in this picture, my dad and I have a very gentle, loving, healthy relationship.Katinka is always so proper and lady-like...You'll definitely see the sisterly resemblance between me and my Emita in the next two pictures:
As Bizarro dropped me off at the airport before Christmas, we had the following exchange:
Mary: "I'm really going to miss you guys over Christmas..."
Bizarro: "But you have good replacements."
Mary: "Wait, who's replacing whom?"
Is it possible to have a Replacement Family for a Replacement Family?
Youth: "Syd, please play the piano so we can sing!"
Syd: "No, let's sing without the piano this time..."
Youth: "Please! Please! Please!"
Syd: "I don't want to... and what are you guys going to do when I'm gone next year?"
Youth: "Mary will play. You're REPLACEABLE."
Which is absolutely false. No one is replaceable. No person, no family, no one.
When I'm in Germany, I miss my family. When I'm in Texas, I realize how much I love and miss everyone here.
So ist das Leben.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Christmas 2006 Photos!
Yes, photos from Christmas have finally been sorted through and uploaded! Hope you all enjoy them. As always, click on the picture to make it larger.
Three of the dearest people on the Planet...
Here's Kenny hanging up Christmas lights on the side of our house...
This is our Texas house by night (good job, Kenny!).
And here's our Texas house by day! Yeah, that's Tiny practicing her modeling pose on the front walkway.
Mamita was ironing something in the kitchen. See the lovely new wooden floors and the green walls? Back in the day when I lived at home, we had tiled floors and wallpaper with light pink and blue flowers.
Me and my Mamita...
This was taken from the back of the auditorium of my Texas church, to give you an idea of what it looks like inside.
Here's what a typical Texas intersection looks like... my Dad refers to it as a "Spaghetti Junction." This particular intersection actually has five levels. Krazy Amis.
We visited my sister Emita's house and here we are behind this weird built-in-the-wall-shelf-thing.
Here she is playing the piano at the Student Center at her University, my alma mater. We need to have another Pride and Prejudice night...
Katinka was on the phone and Tiny's just plain weird...
Isn't Inkie cute?
That's all, Folks.
I miss my fam...
Three of the dearest people on the Planet...Here's Kenny hanging up Christmas lights on the side of our house...This is our Texas house by night (good job, Kenny!).And here's our Texas house by day! Yeah, that's Tiny practicing her modeling pose on the front walkway.Mamita was ironing something in the kitchen. See the lovely new wooden floors and the green walls? Back in the day when I lived at home, we had tiled floors and wallpaper with light pink and blue flowers.Me and my Mamita...This was taken from the back of the auditorium of my Texas church, to give you an idea of what it looks like inside.Here's what a typical Texas intersection looks like... my Dad refers to it as a "Spaghetti Junction." This particular intersection actually has five levels. Krazy Amis.We visited my sister Emita's house and here we are behind this weird built-in-the-wall-shelf-thing.Here she is playing the piano at the Student Center at her University, my alma mater. We need to have another Pride and Prejudice night...Katinka was on the phone and Tiny's just plain weird...Isn't Inkie cute?That's all, Folks.
I miss my fam...
Friday, January 12, 2007
Blog Thoughts for my Dear Readers
Yes, folks, it's that time again: Blog Update Post Time!
I've been thinking about some things and would like to make the following known:
This blog is open to The Public. "The Public" could be defined as the entire internet population - wackos, sleuths, hackers and angel-eyed innocents (like moi) included.
Not to scare anyone... but if your picture is in my blog, it's available to The Public.
The same is true for your name.
I will thus change all real-life names on this blog to code names.
If you, my Dear Readers, ever have a problem with anything I've written in this blog, including but not limited to
use of your name (real or code name)
use of a picture of you
use of a video of you
hinting about you
any other content
please let me know and I will immediately make the necessary changes (unless you're on my bad side and I'm certain that you lack the drive and power to sue me).
I've included many of you in this blog without your permission and in the next several days/weeks, as I see you all live-and-in-person, I'll try to ask you one-on-one if you're ok with the direction of the blog and the fact that you might be in it. :)
This blog is about life in Germany from an American's perspective. As you all know, much of my life here includes other people, which makes it practically impossible not to include many of you.
To re-iterate: please let me know if you have a problem with anything I've posted... I can change/delete/update anything.
Your faithful and zealous Blog-writer,
Pallas Athena (my new code name)
I've been thinking about some things and would like to make the following known:
If you, my Dear Readers, ever have a problem with anything I've written in this blog, including but not limited to
please let me know and I will immediately make the necessary changes (unless you're on my bad side and I'm certain that you lack the drive and power to sue me).
I've included many of you in this blog without your permission and in the next several days/weeks, as I see you all live-and-in-person, I'll try to ask you one-on-one if you're ok with the direction of the blog and the fact that you might be in it. :)
This blog is about life in Germany from an American's perspective. As you all know, much of my life here includes other people, which makes it practically impossible not to include many of you.
To re-iterate: please let me know if you have a problem with anything I've posted... I can change/delete/update anything.
Your faithful and zealous Blog-writer,
Pallas Athena (my new code name)
Monday, January 08, 2007
Contradictory Advice
"The job market in Germany is horrible... it's practically impossible to find a job."
"Of course you'll find a job... I'm not worried at all about you."
"You probably won't find a job in Financial Analysis because you didn't actually study it."
"Sure you'll find a job in Financial Analysis... you have experience! You just have to be confident, prove you're the right person, and be willing to learn."
"You eat way too much chocolate."
"You don't eat enough; you're too skinny."
"Germany is so far away from home... are you sure you still want to live there?"
"You're in exactly the right location."
"Isn't it about time for a haircut? Maybe even a pixie cut?"
"Don't cut your hair - it looks good when it's longer."
"Stop playing the piano... I can't hear the television."
"Of course your piano playing isn't annoying! What makes you think that?"
"Are you still interested The Boy Unnamed? Do you ever wonder what would have happened if you'd have gotten together with him?"
"It's good that you ran away from The Boy Unnamed."
"Don't you ever marry a German! You need to come straight home and marry a white boy."
"You ought to marry a German so you can stay in Germany."
"Good heavens! Why are you living in Europe? I would never do such a thing!"
"I wish I had lived overseas when I was younger... what a great experience."
Anyone out there ever feel, um, torn? Confused? Frustrated? Bombarded with contradicting advice, all from people you love and respect?
*screams and punches a hole in the wall*
"Of course you'll find a job... I'm not worried at all about you."
"You probably won't find a job in Financial Analysis because you didn't actually study it."
"Sure you'll find a job in Financial Analysis... you have experience! You just have to be confident, prove you're the right person, and be willing to learn."
"You eat way too much chocolate."
"You don't eat enough; you're too skinny."
"Germany is so far away from home... are you sure you still want to live there?"
"You're in exactly the right location."
"Isn't it about time for a haircut? Maybe even a pixie cut?"
"Don't cut your hair - it looks good when it's longer."
"Stop playing the piano... I can't hear the television."
"Of course your piano playing isn't annoying! What makes you think that?"
"Are you still interested The Boy Unnamed? Do you ever wonder what would have happened if you'd have gotten together with him?"
"It's good that you ran away from The Boy Unnamed."
"Don't you ever marry a German! You need to come straight home and marry a white boy."
"You ought to marry a German so you can stay in Germany."
"Good heavens! Why are you living in Europe? I would never do such a thing!"
"I wish I had lived overseas when I was younger... what a great experience."
Anyone out there ever feel, um, torn? Confused? Frustrated? Bombarded with contradicting advice, all from people you love and respect?
*screams and punches a hole in the wall*
Friday, January 05, 2007
Back in Neukuchen* (Or, Thoughts on Death and the New Year)
You know you're in Germany when... people unabashedly put on deoderant in open public places, when straight men cross their legs and apply chapstick in public, and when cigarette smoke lingers and follows you no matter where you are and whether or not you yourself smoke.
:)
Anyway.
I made it back safely and soundly and was happy to see Bizarro Mom (THANK YOU!) at the airport.
It's a new year. 2007. It seems that just yesterday I was preparing an informative speech for my Rhetoric Class on Y2K and the anticipated problems of the two-digit date format in computer programs. Now, seven years later, instead of pondering potential end-of-the-world issues, I'm pondering actual real-world issues.
As the plane went through some turbulence on my flight today, I had a bizarre and fleeting thought that it'd actually be kinda nice if it went down. Maybe not nice nice... but I'd be ok with it. No job hunting. No interviews. No being torn between worlds. No over-analyzing things and driving myself crazy.
I'm not that old, but I've seen and done quite a bit and could probably die decently happy at this point.
Is that morbidity? Is that contentment? Or perhaps discontentment? Or something else? *scratches her head and thinks*
The good thing about Christian spirituality is that you can always start over. As a matter of fact, it's all about fresh starts and forgiveness.
It's a new year. 2007. No matter what you've done from the moment you were born until December 31, 2006, you can start over on January 1, 2007. And if you screw up on January 1, 2007, then you can start over on January 2, 2007. And if you screw up at, say, noon on January 1, 2007, you can start over at 12:01 on January 1, 2007.
Life is a race, and it's about looking forward. A speaker once said that past failures lead to future paralysis... and past successes lead to future complacency.
*chew chew chew*
It's true, though, isn't it? So, I hope everyone looks forward this year... starts over from this moment on (if necessary... but then again, don't we all have things with which we ought to start afresh?)... runs a new and focused race.
It's a new year. 2007. Think about it, please.
To finish the story, the plane didn't go down; it landed safely and smoothly in the lovely town of Duesseldorf. Which evidently means I'm supposed to be alive for now and keep pushing forward in the Craziness that is Life. *shrugs her shoulders* Ok, can do.
It really was great being with my family.
*blows five disgustingly wet and sloppy smooches across the Atlantic Ocean*
*Tiny and Emita's pronunciation of Neukirchen, my city
:)
Anyway.
I made it back safely and soundly and was happy to see Bizarro Mom (THANK YOU!) at the airport.
It's a new year. 2007. It seems that just yesterday I was preparing an informative speech for my Rhetoric Class on Y2K and the anticipated problems of the two-digit date format in computer programs. Now, seven years later, instead of pondering potential end-of-the-world issues, I'm pondering actual real-world issues.
As the plane went through some turbulence on my flight today, I had a bizarre and fleeting thought that it'd actually be kinda nice if it went down. Maybe not nice nice... but I'd be ok with it. No job hunting. No interviews. No being torn between worlds. No over-analyzing things and driving myself crazy.
I'm not that old, but I've seen and done quite a bit and could probably die decently happy at this point.
Is that morbidity? Is that contentment? Or perhaps discontentment? Or something else? *scratches her head and thinks*
The good thing about Christian spirituality is that you can always start over. As a matter of fact, it's all about fresh starts and forgiveness.
It's a new year. 2007. No matter what you've done from the moment you were born until December 31, 2006, you can start over on January 1, 2007. And if you screw up on January 1, 2007, then you can start over on January 2, 2007. And if you screw up at, say, noon on January 1, 2007, you can start over at 12:01 on January 1, 2007.
Life is a race, and it's about looking forward. A speaker once said that past failures lead to future paralysis... and past successes lead to future complacency.
*chew chew chew*
It's true, though, isn't it? So, I hope everyone looks forward this year... starts over from this moment on (if necessary... but then again, don't we all have things with which we ought to start afresh?)... runs a new and focused race.
It's a new year. 2007. Think about it, please.
To finish the story, the plane didn't go down; it landed safely and smoothly in the lovely town of Duesseldorf. Which evidently means I'm supposed to be alive for now and keep pushing forward in the Craziness that is Life. *shrugs her shoulders* Ok, can do.
It really was great being with my family.
*blows five disgustingly wet and sloppy smooches across the Atlantic Ocean*
*Tiny and Emita's pronunciation of Neukirchen, my city
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Back-in-the-US Observations/ Thoughts/ Comments/ Etc...
I love and miss my family. It's weird that I live so far away. *scratches her head and thinks*
People are friendlier. Example: the airport security guard chatted with me and wished me a Merry Christmas as he was checking my passport. I was confused.
Commercialism. Shopping. Billboards. Advertisements. Flashing Lights. Keeping up with the Joneses. Ugh.
The Government is clueless. *decides not to expound*
But I do kinda miss Big Brother and his socialistic tendencies.
Movies. TV. People watch quite a bit of this stuff. And it's often the topic of conversation.
Unlimited drink refills, yes!
The roads are extremely wide and the cars are freaking huge.
Southern accents are kinda funny.
It's nice not having a language barrier... though there have been quite a few times where a German word or phrase would have fitted much better.
People aren't as fat as I thought they'd be.
It's nice not to have to separate trash into half-a-dozen trash cans.
In general, people seem like they're in a hurry. And they seem slightly unfocused and unable to concentrate.
Water fountains are a brilliant invention and ought to be exported to Europe.
Stuff is generally less expensive.
Customer service actually exists... though it's nice, I would like to enjoy a meal without the waiter coming by every two minutes and asking me if I still have enough to drink.
The Spanish language is more present than ever before.
Mexico is taking over the Southern States.
It's weird talking in English to strangers. At the mall with my sister, I bumped into someone and an "Entschuldigung" slipped out.
Thunderstorms with tornado watches make me really nervous.
My heart is torn between Austin and Neukirchen.
Anyone else experience Weirdness when traveling between countries? Let me know - we'll add your stuff to the List. :)
People are friendlier. Example: the airport security guard chatted with me and wished me a Merry Christmas as he was checking my passport. I was confused.
Commercialism. Shopping. Billboards. Advertisements. Flashing Lights. Keeping up with the Joneses. Ugh.
The Government is clueless. *decides not to expound*
But I do kinda miss Big Brother and his socialistic tendencies.
Movies. TV. People watch quite a bit of this stuff. And it's often the topic of conversation.
Unlimited drink refills, yes!
The roads are extremely wide and the cars are freaking huge.
Southern accents are kinda funny.
It's nice not having a language barrier... though there have been quite a few times where a German word or phrase would have fitted much better.
People aren't as fat as I thought they'd be.
It's nice not to have to separate trash into half-a-dozen trash cans.
In general, people seem like they're in a hurry. And they seem slightly unfocused and unable to concentrate.
Water fountains are a brilliant invention and ought to be exported to Europe.
Stuff is generally less expensive.
Customer service actually exists... though it's nice, I would like to enjoy a meal without the waiter coming by every two minutes and asking me if I still have enough to drink.
The Spanish language is more present than ever before.
Mexico is taking over the Southern States.
It's weird talking in English to strangers. At the mall with my sister, I bumped into someone and an "Entschuldigung" slipped out.
Thunderstorms with tornado watches make me really nervous.
My heart is torn between Austin and Neukirchen.
Anyone else experience Weirdness when traveling between countries? Let me know - we'll add your stuff to the List. :)
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Family Christmas Letter!
Well, Mom wanted me to write our Family Christmas Letter this year... and she wanted it to be obvious that I'd written it. So, here it is.
Dear Family and Friends,
Mom’s hoping to start a new Christmas tradition of me (Mary) writing our family Christmas letter. As I didn’t fly in from Germany until the 18th, we’re a little late this year. It’s been an incredible year of growth and challenge for everyone… here are the some of the highlights:
Dad (Chuck): in his down-time between hunting trips (be it for wild boar, deer, or even cougar), Dad is still on staff with Hill Country Bible Church. He actually took on the new role of Small Groups Pastor this year, which he is really enjoying.
Mom (Libby): still working as the receptionist at Hill Country Christian School of Austin, Mom’s also had a great year. Highlights include visiting me in Germany, learning how to quilt, and counseling younger couples with Dad. She’s also enjoyed being able to see her family this year, as several nieces and nephews have gotten married.
Me (Mary): having made it through my first year in Germany, I love my new life and circle of friends and families. I’m involved with the youth, help lead the worship music on Sundays, and host a weekly Bible Study group. Unfortunately, my company filed for bankruptcy, so I’m in the process of trusting God and job hunting because I’d love to stay exactly where I am.
Katherine: now in her upper-level nursing courses at the University of Texas, Katherine is enjoying the hands-on side of nursing and is gaining excellent practical experience. She even practices IV administration on Dad - what a family. She’s also involved in children’s ministry at the Hill Country Bible Church UT Church Plant in Austin and works part time at the hospital.
Emilie: in her second year at Texas A&M University, Emilie declared Speech Communications to be her major. She’s had a great year, which has included Bible Studies at her church, moving into a little house off campus, starting to play the piano again (Pride and Prejudice music is her specialty!), and even taking a Scuba-diving class.
Christina: this Christmas letter isn’t the only place you can read about Christina… just check out the local newspapers. As a high school Senior, her Volleyball team had a 14-0 Season and was 10th in the State of Texas. She’ll graduate in May and is still deciding where to go to college and what her next steps will be.
We wish you all a wonderful Christmas and may God bless you in 2007!
The Barber Family
Dear Family and Friends,
Mom’s hoping to start a new Christmas tradition of me (Mary) writing our family Christmas letter. As I didn’t fly in from Germany until the 18th, we’re a little late this year. It’s been an incredible year of growth and challenge for everyone… here are the some of the highlights:
Dad (Chuck): in his down-time between hunting trips (be it for wild boar, deer, or even cougar), Dad is still on staff with Hill Country Bible Church. He actually took on the new role of Small Groups Pastor this year, which he is really enjoying.
Mom (Libby): still working as the receptionist at Hill Country Christian School of Austin, Mom’s also had a great year. Highlights include visiting me in Germany, learning how to quilt, and counseling younger couples with Dad. She’s also enjoyed being able to see her family this year, as several nieces and nephews have gotten married.
Me (Mary): having made it through my first year in Germany, I love my new life and circle of friends and families. I’m involved with the youth, help lead the worship music on Sundays, and host a weekly Bible Study group. Unfortunately, my company filed for bankruptcy, so I’m in the process of trusting God and job hunting because I’d love to stay exactly where I am.
Katherine: now in her upper-level nursing courses at the University of Texas, Katherine is enjoying the hands-on side of nursing and is gaining excellent practical experience. She even practices IV administration on Dad - what a family. She’s also involved in children’s ministry at the Hill Country Bible Church UT Church Plant in Austin and works part time at the hospital.
Emilie: in her second year at Texas A&M University, Emilie declared Speech Communications to be her major. She’s had a great year, which has included Bible Studies at her church, moving into a little house off campus, starting to play the piano again (Pride and Prejudice music is her specialty!), and even taking a Scuba-diving class.
Christina: this Christmas letter isn’t the only place you can read about Christina… just check out the local newspapers. As a high school Senior, her Volleyball team had a 14-0 Season and was 10th in the State of Texas. She’ll graduate in May and is still deciding where to go to college and what her next steps will be.
We wish you all a wonderful Christmas and may God bless you in 2007!
The Barber Family
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Back in Austin...
Well, I made it home, and without any type of drama.
It. Is. So. Good. To. See. My. Family. Again.
My goodness.
Home.
Home?
A ton has changed, though, it really has.
Ah, life.
It. Is. So. Good. To. See. My. Family. Again.
My goodness.
Home.
Home?
A ton has changed, though, it really has.
Ah, life.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Biomuell* Conquered!!!
Yesterday was a Day of Victory, a Day of Conquered Fears, a magnificent Day in the History of Biomuell that will always be remembered and retold by generations to come.
It all began as a normal, peaceful day in the little German town of Neukirchen-Vluyn... while walking back to my appartment, day-dreaming and humming a lovely old hymn (without a jazz motiv), I couldn't help but notice the plethora of brightly coloured Fall leaves scattered over the cobblestone streets.
Bizarro Mom had evidently noticed them as well, as she was outside raking when I got home. So, I stopped to help.
[Aside for my dear American readers: leaves, branches, plants and such all belong in Biomuell.]
There were so many leaves, however, that we couldn't fit them into the Biomuell trash can.
Bizarro Mom: "I think you ought to stand in the trash can and press the leaves down so we can fit more in..."
Mary: "Em, what?"
Bizarro: "Here, I'll lift you into the trash can... you're light."
Mary: "Ok, but let me take my rings off first."
So, believe it or not, I was inside the Biomuell trash can, jumping up and down, trying to smash the leaves down and make more room. At first I was rather frightened... frightened that the Biomuell might swallow me up or eat me alive, or that I might dissolve right into the trash can.
But yesterday was victorious... not only was the Biomuell conquered, but my deep-entrenched-stemming-from-traumatic-past-events fear of Biomuell was conquered as well.
Driver's licence: obtained.
Biomuell issues: resolved.
Packing for Texas: Em...
New Job: Em...
Sanity: Em...
At least there's a certain degree of success in the chaos and confusion that can often be My Life.
*biological waste
[Aside II... for my new readers who haven't followed the drama and for my regular readers who are interested, here are the links to the previous Biomuell blogs, in chronological order:
My Biomuell is going to kill me in my sleep,
And the Biomuell Saga continues...,
BIOMUELL AMBUSH!!! (Or, Biomuell, Part III).]
It all began as a normal, peaceful day in the little German town of Neukirchen-Vluyn... while walking back to my appartment, day-dreaming and humming a lovely old hymn (without a jazz motiv), I couldn't help but notice the plethora of brightly coloured Fall leaves scattered over the cobblestone streets.
Bizarro Mom had evidently noticed them as well, as she was outside raking when I got home. So, I stopped to help.
[Aside for my dear American readers: leaves, branches, plants and such all belong in Biomuell.]
There were so many leaves, however, that we couldn't fit them into the Biomuell trash can.
Bizarro Mom: "I think you ought to stand in the trash can and press the leaves down so we can fit more in..."
Mary: "Em, what?"
Bizarro: "Here, I'll lift you into the trash can... you're light."
Mary: "Ok, but let me take my rings off first."
So, believe it or not, I was inside the Biomuell trash can, jumping up and down, trying to smash the leaves down and make more room. At first I was rather frightened... frightened that the Biomuell might swallow me up or eat me alive, or that I might dissolve right into the trash can.
But yesterday was victorious... not only was the Biomuell conquered, but my deep-entrenched-stemming-from-traumatic-past-events fear of Biomuell was conquered as well.
Driver's licence: obtained.
Biomuell issues: resolved.
Packing for Texas: Em...
New Job: Em...
Sanity: Em...
At least there's a certain degree of success in the chaos and confusion that can often be My Life.
*biological waste
[Aside II... for my new readers who haven't followed the drama and for my regular readers who are interested, here are the links to the previous Biomuell blogs, in chronological order:
My Biomuell is going to kill me in my sleep,
And the Biomuell Saga continues...,
BIOMUELL AMBUSH!!! (Or, Biomuell, Part III).]
Thursday, December 14, 2006
LU Granny Bars?
***warning***
This blog is especially for my German readers
***end of warning***
Hallo meine Lieben!
Da die meisten, die mein Blog lesen Deutsche sind habe ich mich entschlossen, den Blog ab jetzt auf Deutsch zu schreiben. Ne, Scherz. :)
Aber jetzt ganz ernst: habe eine E-mail von meiner Schwester Tiny bekommen und die will etwas, was sich "LU Granny Bars" nennt. Kennt irgendjemand von euch die? Die sind scheinbar Kekse und kommen aus Belgien. Die kenne ich überhaupt nicht und dachte, dass einer von euch die vielleicht kennt oder wisst, wo ich mir welche besorgen könnte.
Ok, das wars.
Und ja, Eleanor, du darfst mein Deutsch ruhig korrigieren. Aber nur wenn du mir gleichzeitig LU Granny Bars besorgst.
Quote of the Day: "Hey, das ist nicht normal..." (Thanks to Karin)
This blog is especially for my German readers
***end of warning***
Hallo meine Lieben!
Da die meisten, die mein Blog lesen Deutsche sind habe ich mich entschlossen, den Blog ab jetzt auf Deutsch zu schreiben. Ne, Scherz. :)
Aber jetzt ganz ernst: habe eine E-mail von meiner Schwester Tiny bekommen und die will etwas, was sich "LU Granny Bars" nennt. Kennt irgendjemand von euch die? Die sind scheinbar Kekse und kommen aus Belgien. Die kenne ich überhaupt nicht und dachte, dass einer von euch die vielleicht kennt oder wisst, wo ich mir welche besorgen könnte.
Ok, das wars.
Und ja, Eleanor, du darfst mein Deutsch ruhig korrigieren. Aber nur wenn du mir gleichzeitig LU Granny Bars besorgst.
Quote of the Day: "Hey, das ist nicht normal..." (Thanks to Karin)
Monday, December 11, 2006
Return of the Beatles* (with Ukeleles)
Here's the Little Rascal (left) and Tobi's (right) rendition of Jingle Bells. This was taken during our Advents Christmas Service.
They really ought to start a band. We all should start a band.
Syd could play the piano.
Karin could be our Tour Manager and Group Mom.
Helmut could play the guitar and be the lead vocalist.
Tobi could play the ukelele and do set-design and band art.
The Little Rascal could play the drums and back-up ukelele.
Lizzy, Anne and Miri could be our back-up dancers.
Christiana could be the lead female vocalist.
And I could be the Finance Manager and back-up pianist.
*for those of you who don't know, the Beatles were known for wearing tuxedos when performing. And they had kind-of-long hair. :)
They really ought to start a band. We all should start a band.
Syd could play the piano.
Karin could be our Tour Manager and Group Mom.
Helmut could play the guitar and be the lead vocalist.
Tobi could play the ukelele and do set-design and band art.
The Little Rascal could play the drums and back-up ukelele.
Lizzy, Anne and Miri could be our back-up dancers.
Christiana could be the lead female vocalist.
And I could be the Finance Manager and back-up pianist.
*for those of you who don't know, the Beatles were known for wearing tuxedos when performing. And they had kind-of-long hair. :)
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Saturday, December 09, 2006
The Picture Update Post
As usual, I'm behind on picture uploading and posting, so I thought I'd do a photo collage to catch up. So, my Dears, here are some of my favourite photos and memories from the past several weeks.
To make the picture larger, click on it. If you're not sure who someone is, check out the List of Characters.
Enjoy!
A few weeks ago, Tobi, Karin, Anne, Lizzy, the Little Rascal and I went to this old production site that's typical for the Ruhrgebiet. You can actually climb to the top of it and see where/how people used to work.
Tobi is explaining something to Anne and me...
Pretty high, hmm?
Aww, I love everybody. :)
I, em, have some news... just kidding! This is Lukas and he belongs to a little friend of mine.
Mamita and Ellen at the top of a Windmill in Xanten! I'm surprised Mom didn't freak. :)
Here's a picture from inside the windmill. The mill is actually in use - they grind the flour there and then make bread in a little bakery at the bottom of the mill. You can see a little of the shop through the opening in the floor.
Christiana, Helmut and I had a glass of Champagne at our "Stammkneipe" in celebration of the fact that I finally have my *bleeping* driver's license.
Here are Karin and Lizzy helping prepare for the Youth Church Service. Karin and I were in charge of feeding 150 people! *drama* But it ended up just fine. To see more pictures of Youth Service, check out our entry on the church blog.
Helmut, Bizarro Mom and Christiana at the Youth Service. :)
Mr. P. is explaining something to Charlotta Louisa. She's absolutely precious, and definitely a Daddy's Girl. :)
Last week a group of co-workers and I went to the Christmas Market in Moers and then got coffee afterwards. Eve is on the right... she's the one whose boyfriend plays in the band that we're going to see on Dec. 16th. :)
Here's my co-worker Fraenzchen, with whom I worked the closest. *sniff sniff* I really miss working with him and the rest of the group.
That's all for now, Folks.
[The Music Blog was updated yesterday, for those who are interested.]
To make the picture larger, click on it. If you're not sure who someone is, check out the List of Characters.
Enjoy!
A few weeks ago, Tobi, Karin, Anne, Lizzy, the Little Rascal and I went to this old production site that's typical for the Ruhrgebiet. You can actually climb to the top of it and see where/how people used to work.Tobi is explaining something to Anne and me...Pretty high, hmm? Aww, I love everybody. :)I, em, have some news... just kidding! This is Lukas and he belongs to a little friend of mine.Mamita and Ellen at the top of a Windmill in Xanten! I'm surprised Mom didn't freak. :)Here's a picture from inside the windmill. The mill is actually in use - they grind the flour there and then make bread in a little bakery at the bottom of the mill. You can see a little of the shop through the opening in the floor. Christiana, Helmut and I had a glass of Champagne at our "Stammkneipe" in celebration of the fact that I finally have my *bleeping* driver's license.Here are Karin and Lizzy helping prepare for the Youth Church Service. Karin and I were in charge of feeding 150 people! *drama* But it ended up just fine. To see more pictures of Youth Service, check out our entry on the church blog.Helmut, Bizarro Mom and Christiana at the Youth Service. :) Mr. P. is explaining something to Charlotta Louisa. She's absolutely precious, and definitely a Daddy's Girl. :)Last week a group of co-workers and I went to the Christmas Market in Moers and then got coffee afterwards. Eve is on the right... she's the one whose boyfriend plays in the band that we're going to see on Dec. 16th. :)Here's my co-worker Fraenzchen, with whom I worked the closest. *sniff sniff* I really miss working with him and the rest of the group. That's all for now, Folks.
[The Music Blog was updated yesterday, for those who are interested.]
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Three Countries in 24 Hours
So... when trying to find my way to an interview today (Tuesday), I missed my exit and ended up in a different country. That's right... I missed my turn and somehow ended up in Holland this morning.
Poor Syd - everyone's always making fun of him for getting ridiculously lost and turned around... but at least he manages to remain in the correct country.
As most of you know, I was in Madrid yesterday (Monday). So... Spain and Germany and Holland make three countries within 24 hours.
*oooh*
I'm honestly burnt out from everything, but I'll post the Madrid pictures as soon as I get them uploaded. I'd especially like for Emita and Karin to look at them - see how they compare to Mexico.
Hasta luego, mis amigos.
Poor Syd - everyone's always making fun of him for getting ridiculously lost and turned around... but at least he manages to remain in the correct country.
As most of you know, I was in Madrid yesterday (Monday). So... Spain and Germany and Holland make three countries within 24 hours.
*oooh*
I'm honestly burnt out from everything, but I'll post the Madrid pictures as soon as I get them uploaded. I'd especially like for Emita and Karin to look at them - see how they compare to Mexico.
Hasta luego, mis amigos.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Music School Recital
If there's one steady/stable/never-changing variable in my life at this point, it's my undying love of music. Seriously. And as long as I continue to feel this way, there's less of a chance that the Semester from Hell will be repeated (with new conditions and variables, that is).
After church today, I ended up at a Music School Recital with Mr. and Mrs. E and Syd. They sang mostly classical songs, and quite a few were in Latin... and it was absolutely heavenly!
And I thought that Peter Bay* was a dynamic conductor! The choir conductor today was in her own little angellic musical world; it was insane. I'd never seen anyone as into the music as she was... she lived and breathed it and even seemed to be in a trance-like state a certain points. When she conducted, she was graceful and fluid in her movements - almost as if she were dancing. (Though we did fear that she might knock the stand over!)
She also used her eyes to conduct, specifically when it came to solo pieces. For example, there was a duet with a Tenor and an Alto. She'd be in a meditative state with closed eyes as the pianist played the introduction or bridge. As soon as the singers were supposed to sing, she'd come alive - she'd open her eyes, look at them, and direct them, in a way, right from her chair.
It was all so strange and interesting.
*conductor of the Austin Symphony
After church today, I ended up at a Music School Recital with Mr. and Mrs. E and Syd. They sang mostly classical songs, and quite a few were in Latin... and it was absolutely heavenly!
And I thought that Peter Bay* was a dynamic conductor! The choir conductor today was in her own little angellic musical world; it was insane. I'd never seen anyone as into the music as she was... she lived and breathed it and even seemed to be in a trance-like state a certain points. When she conducted, she was graceful and fluid in her movements - almost as if she were dancing. (Though we did fear that she might knock the stand over!)
She also used her eyes to conduct, specifically when it came to solo pieces. For example, there was a duet with a Tenor and an Alto. She'd be in a meditative state with closed eyes as the pianist played the introduction or bridge. As soon as the singers were supposed to sing, she'd come alive - she'd open her eyes, look at them, and direct them, in a way, right from her chair.
It was all so strange and interesting.
*conductor of the Austin Symphony
Saturday, December 02, 2006
Interview Preparation Questions
Got a list of interview prep questions I've been looking over and working through...
What attracts you to this particular company?
The fact that it's not bankrupt.
What is your biggest professional achievement?
The correction of our allocation cost center cycle... I calculated the necessasry correction and forecasted it. When the correction was executed, my forecast only had a 2,6% deviation from the actual costs. :)
Why should I give you this job?
Because I bought an expensive suit and removed my nosering for this interview. And because I'll put you on my hit-list if you don't.
What will you be looking for in a new role?
Something challenging but do-able, something requiring both German and English language skills, and something offering the opportunity to maybe take on new or different tasks in the future.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
IN A VAN DOWN BY THE RIVER!!!!!!!
What attracts you to this particular company?
The fact that it's not bankrupt.
What is your biggest professional achievement?
The correction of our allocation cost center cycle... I calculated the necessasry correction and forecasted it. When the correction was executed, my forecast only had a 2,6% deviation from the actual costs. :)
Why should I give you this job?
Because I bought an expensive suit and removed my nosering for this interview. And because I'll put you on my hit-list if you don't.
What will you be looking for in a new role?
Something challenging but do-able, something requiring both German and English language skills, and something offering the opportunity to maybe take on new or different tasks in the future.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
IN A VAN DOWN BY THE RIVER!!!!!!!
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Interview Insanity (or, I'll be in Madrid on Monday)
Got a call yesterday from a Headhunter I've been working with and he has a Spain-based (but international) client with their Germam headquarters in Berlin. They're going to fly me to Madrid this Monday for an interview with the head financial dude.
Em...
*scratches her head*
I'm not used to companies having money.
Em...
*scratches her head*
I'm not used to companies having money.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Christus Gemeinde NK Blog!
*drumroll*
Hello, my Dears!
Syd and I have decided to start a blog for our church. We already have a website, but we think a blog is a better way to keep people updated with the latest information and events. It's also more flexible and dynamic than a "normal" (though isn't normalcy relative?) website.
So, allow us to present to you... the Christus Gemeinde NK Blog, straight from the Center of the Universe and a neighboring town.
Hope you enjoy! Any feedback, ideas, comments, suggestions, etc, are always welcome.
By the way, it's in German... my American readers could enjoy the pictures, but the site is primarily for the people and the church here. :)
Your unemployed-blog-writing-germanized-semi-delusional friend,
Mary Elizabeth
Hello, my Dears!
Syd and I have decided to start a blog for our church. We already have a website, but we think a blog is a better way to keep people updated with the latest information and events. It's also more flexible and dynamic than a "normal" (though isn't normalcy relative?) website.
So, allow us to present to you... the Christus Gemeinde NK Blog, straight from the Center of the Universe and a neighboring town.
Hope you enjoy! Any feedback, ideas, comments, suggestions, etc, are always welcome.
By the way, it's in German... my American readers could enjoy the pictures, but the site is primarily for the people and the church here. :)
Your unemployed-blog-writing-germanized-semi-delusional friend,
Mary Elizabeth
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
The Update List
Things have been incredibly crazy, busy and hectic lately. Here's a list of some of the recent high-lights:
a wonderfully encouraging visit with my Mom, including everything from late-night-talks to sight-seeing to people-meeting to evening-walks.
great teamwork with the youth for the youth church service, which went wonderfully well!
listening to Neal's band during the youth church service - they were freaking amazing
working on a super-critical-top-secret project with Syd
crying happy tears after passing my practical driver's license test
knowing things I'm not supposed to know
not butchering my piano accompaniment piece when our choir sang last Sunday
getting together with some of my former coworkers
singing Beatles songs and drinking cappuccino at a little pub in Moers with Helmut and Christiana
receiving a postcard from my Emita
seeing a rainbow and thinking of hope, beauty and promises
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Thursday, November 23, 2006
The Mystery of the "H" Egg
The "H" Egg in my fridge seemed to have sparked questions in the minds of certain curiously snoopy young men. I about fell over laughing when opening the fridge after our Bible Study group this evening, because written next to the "H" was a question mark.Yes, writing an "H" in permanent marker on eggs is a common occurence for me. And I have my reasons for doing so.
Laura: "Why are you writing about eggs when your mother is visiting you?"
Mary: "I dunno..."
Laura: "You should write about what you two are doing and talking about and thinking."
Mary: "But there's just so much. I don't know where to start."
Laura: "You could be creative."
Mary: "Or I could simply write about the strange egg in my fridge."
Laura: "Whatever you want."
There will be a prize (think: you own, personal "H" Egg) for the first person who correctly guesses what the "H" stands for.
And there might even be a prize for the most hilarious/creative suggestion.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Mom made it!
Just so everyone knows, Mom made it here safely! Tobi and I picked her up around 8 this morning, which would be 1 AM Texas time... so, she's rather tired and is taking a nap right now.
:)
:)
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Driver's License Update (yes, another one)
Yes, the notoriously unresolved issue is still a dark and looming shadow on the valley (oops, am I allowed to use that word?) that is life. But, thanks to help and encouragement from Mr. E and others, things are happening and looking brighter.
I changed driving schools and had my second driving hour at the new school and with a new instructor the other day. After driving all over town and on the Autobahn (sorry, didn't film it this time), I asked the following question:
Mary: "So... was my driving einigermassen in order today...?"
Instructor: "It was perfectly fine. I don't understand what the problem was at the other school."
Yeah, I have a hard time understanding what the problem was as well.
Could it be that I don't fare well when people curse at me, scream at me, bash me, bash other students, bash my driving, bash Americans, bash America in general, refuse to answer questions, give evil looks, tell me that my driving is getting worse, tell me that I'm going to fail the test, act impatiently, talk on the cell phone the entire time, call me "Frau Barber" when I want to be called "Mary", use the formal "you" (Sie) with me, look at me weird, make me feel like an idiot, make my life miserable, and desperately need tranquilizers and a straight jacket?
*scratches her head*
It's a mystery to me.
I changed driving schools and had my second driving hour at the new school and with a new instructor the other day. After driving all over town and on the Autobahn (sorry, didn't film it this time), I asked the following question:
Mary: "So... was my driving einigermassen in order today...?"
Instructor: "It was perfectly fine. I don't understand what the problem was at the other school."
Yeah, I have a hard time understanding what the problem was as well.
Could it be that I don't fare well when people curse at me, scream at me, bash me, bash other students, bash my driving, bash Americans, bash America in general, refuse to answer questions, give evil looks, tell me that my driving is getting worse, tell me that I'm going to fail the test, act impatiently, talk on the cell phone the entire time, call me "Frau Barber" when I want to be called "Mary", use the formal "you" (Sie) with me, look at me weird, make me feel like an idiot, make my life miserable, and desperately need tranquilizers and a straight jacket?
*scratches her head*
It's a mystery to me.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
A Short Love Story (or... Love Letters vs. Blogs)
Once upon a time in the Fall, a Girl met a Boy. She thought she might love him, but after time passed, they decided to call things off. So she cried, packed her bags, and moved to a Land Far Away.
*a year goes by*
The next Fall, the Girl realized that she missed him. So, she wrote him a letter. But things still didn't work out, and she was still in the Land Far Away.
*another year goes by*
One day in November, it dawned on the Girl that it was the Fall again, and that she hadn't written or spoken with the Boy for a very, very long time.
But instead of writing him a letter, she wrote a blog.
The End.
:)
*a year goes by*
The next Fall, the Girl realized that she missed him. So, she wrote him a letter. But things still didn't work out, and she was still in the Land Far Away.
*another year goes by*
One day in November, it dawned on the Girl that it was the Fall again, and that she hadn't written or spoken with the Boy for a very, very long time.
But instead of writing him a letter, she wrote a blog.
The End.
:)
Monday, November 13, 2006
Legalism, Piano Playing and Drinks on the House
It's interesting... the majority of German Christians don't see drinking an occasional alcoholic beverage as negatively as American Christians see it. Ironically, legalism is culture-dependent. For example, at the international church in Augsburg that my family and I used to attend, the Christian women absolutely did not wear make-up. They'd drink hard liquor on a daily basis, but a touch of mascara? EVIL! Then there's the other extreme. Although Texas and other-southern-state Christians are notorious for caking their make-up on, you'll never find them within a mile from a drop of Federweisser.*
Anyway. All that to say... Helmut, Christiana and I have started a new tradition of going out for drinks after either Choir or a monthly Praise and Worship Service. This week, Beatrice was there as well. :)
A couple of weeks ago, we had a rather amusing evening. It all took place on a dark, rainy night, in a little pub in Neukirchen, which happened to have a piano right near our table. Throughout the evening I kept glancing at it, debating whether or not to play... until Helmut finally coaxed the bartender to let me try it out. After messing around and playing bits and pieces of various songs, I returned to the table, to see that she'd given us a round of drinks on the house. :)
Hehe. 10 minutes of piano playing for two red wines and an Amaretto. Not bad, hmm?
I would have never done that in the States. Some things change (or are changeable) with time, though, I've discovered...
Here are Helmut and Christiana...
And here I am with Beatrice.**
So, that's our little group. :)
*a deliciously sweet, slightly bubbly, perfectly innocent, mild wine
**Beatrice, if you seriously have a problem with my posting of this picture, let me know and I'll remove it. Just please don't sue me until I've at least found a new job.
Anyway. All that to say... Helmut, Christiana and I have started a new tradition of going out for drinks after either Choir or a monthly Praise and Worship Service. This week, Beatrice was there as well. :)
A couple of weeks ago, we had a rather amusing evening. It all took place on a dark, rainy night, in a little pub in Neukirchen, which happened to have a piano right near our table. Throughout the evening I kept glancing at it, debating whether or not to play... until Helmut finally coaxed the bartender to let me try it out. After messing around and playing bits and pieces of various songs, I returned to the table, to see that she'd given us a round of drinks on the house. :)
Hehe. 10 minutes of piano playing for two red wines and an Amaretto. Not bad, hmm?I would have never done that in the States. Some things change (or are changeable) with time, though, I've discovered...
Here are Helmut and Christiana...And here I am with Beatrice.**So, that's our little group. :)
*a deliciously sweet, slightly bubbly, perfectly innocent, mild wine
**Beatrice, if you seriously have a problem with my posting of this picture, let me know and I'll remove it. Just please don't sue me until I've at least found a new job.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
*SCREEEEEEE*
My Mom is coming to Germany!!!!!!!
My Mom is coming to Germany.
My Mom is coming to Germany.
My Mom is coming to Germany.
I can't believe it! This Friday!
If I realize this is a dream, I'm going to throw myself off my balcony.
Unless, of course, I wake up and I'm not actually living thousands of miles away from my Mamita. Or I wake up and realize that the whole job situation is also merely a bad dream. And the driver's license crap. And the homesickness. And the other annoying psychological drama I bring on myself.
Nah, I love everyone here and I love life here. It's just that I have to deal with an impossible amount of Scheisse at this point and I feel rather inadequate and unable to cope with it all.
But we'll make it... afterall... MY MOM IS COMING TO GERMANY!!!!!!!
My Mom is coming to Germany.
My Mom is coming to Germany.
My Mom is coming to Germany.
I can't believe it! This Friday!
If I realize this is a dream, I'm going to throw myself off my balcony.
Unless, of course, I wake up and I'm not actually living thousands of miles away from my Mamita. Or I wake up and realize that the whole job situation is also merely a bad dream. And the driver's license crap. And the homesickness. And the other annoying psychological drama I bring on myself.
Nah, I love everyone here and I love life here. It's just that I have to deal with an impossible amount of Scheisse at this point and I feel rather inadequate and unable to cope with it all.
But we'll make it... afterall... MY MOM IS COMING TO GERMANY!!!!!!!
Thursday, November 09, 2006
I miss my Mamita
Here we were last December, at a little hole-in-the-wall breakfast joint* where you can eat chips and salsa for breakfast.
There's nothing like like sweat droplets, a runny nose, and runny eyes from jalapeno salsa at 9 in the morning.
And there's nothing like being at home with my family.
*Trudy's, for my Austin readers - I highly recommend it.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Language Progress!
It was interesting... I spent Sunday in the Center of the Universe*, as usual... and stayed up rather late talking with Bizarro, Syd, Mr. P., Biff and Tobi. One thing I've noticed lately is that I can understand and speak German on a similar level during all hours of the day, including rather late at night.
"So, what's the point?" you might ask.
Well, earlier, I'd hit a wall towards the end of the day. Thisphenomena phenomenon was especially noticeable Wednesday nights during Bible Study, Friday nights with the youth, and when I was out late with friends. It was as if I'd simply run out of words and hit a language wall - I couldn't remember words I ought to know, couldn't formuluate sentences, and couldn't even understand that much anymore. Recently, this hasn't been happening.
Last night, some of the topics of conversation were a little new and difficult for me (tractor technicalities and earthquake geology, for example)... there are simply words I've never used and have no way of knowing. And even though it was 11 at night, I could follow most everything, and even chime in here and there - whether it be a question, a comment, or a word-definition-request (unfortunately, Leo decided to stay in Neukirchen, so I had to ask Syd).
Earlier, I would have simply had to tune out.
Language Progress! Yay!
I think that if I can manage to stay here, say, two or three more years, you won't be able to tell that I'm an American. I've always thought it'd be interesting to be able to fit so well into a different culture that people don't know you're a foreigner. :)
*Hoerstgen
"So, what's the point?" you might ask.
Well, earlier, I'd hit a wall towards the end of the day. This
Last night, some of the topics of conversation were a little new and difficult for me (tractor technicalities and earthquake geology, for example)... there are simply words I've never used and have no way of knowing. And even though it was 11 at night, I could follow most everything, and even chime in here and there - whether it be a question, a comment, or a word-definition-request (unfortunately, Leo decided to stay in Neukirchen, so I had to ask Syd).
Earlier, I would have simply had to tune out.
Language Progress! Yay!
I think that if I can manage to stay here, say, two or three more years, you won't be able to tell that I'm an American. I've always thought it'd be interesting to be able to fit so well into a different culture that people don't know you're a foreigner. :)
*Hoerstgen
Saturday, November 04, 2006
The Soapbox* (or Sport ist Mord)
*steps on the soapbox*
*scratches her head*
*steps off the soapbox*
*steps on the soapbox*
*looks around*
*steps off the soapbox*
*steps on the soapbox*
*thinks for a few minutes*
*steps off the soapbox*
*wipes the sweat from her brow*
Phew, that was enough excercise for one day.
Yes, folks, that would be me exerting mental energy in deep contemplation of complicated life issues in complicated foreign languages, while simultaneously attempting to decide whether or not to stand on the soapbox to preach about certain issues and concerns, while simultaneously simultaneously (yes, this redundancy was madly and deliberately executed) exerting physical energy, which has supposed health benefits.
Though I tend to think that "Sport ist Mord" ("Sports is Death"... but it rhymes in German and thus sounds better).
*inspired by a conversation with Eleanor and Sydney
*scratches her head*
*steps off the soapbox*
*steps on the soapbox*
*looks around*
*steps off the soapbox*
*steps on the soapbox*
*thinks for a few minutes*
*steps off the soapbox*
*wipes the sweat from her brow*
Phew, that was enough excercise for one day.
Yes, folks, that would be me exerting mental energy in deep contemplation of complicated life issues in complicated foreign languages, while simultaneously attempting to decide whether or not to stand on the soapbox to preach about certain issues and concerns, while simultaneously simultaneously (yes, this redundancy was madly and deliberately executed) exerting physical energy, which has supposed health benefits.
Though I tend to think that "Sport ist Mord" ("Sports is Death"... but it rhymes in German and thus sounds better).
*inspired by a conversation with Eleanor and Sydney
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
On Pessimism
The sign of a true pessimist is being pessimistic about your own pessimism. Contrary to popular belief, being a depressed-misunderstood-drowning-in-tears-wrist-slitting-Emo who sits around philosophizing while the guitar (or piano or whatever) gently weeps isn't as glamorous as some might think.
I get annoyed when people optimistically tell me how pessimistic and dark they are, and how their favourite color is black, blah, blah, blah. If you're really a pessimist, you're not going to cheerfully and proudly broadcast it. You're going to be pessimistic about it.
Just my opinion.
*steps off the soapbox*
I get annoyed when people optimistically tell me how pessimistic and dark they are, and how their favourite color is black, blah, blah, blah. If you're really a pessimist, you're not going to cheerfully and proudly broadcast it. You're going to be pessimistic about it.
Just my opinion.
*steps off the soapbox*
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