So, I deleted the last post because, as a friend helped me realize, personal, emotional outbursts don't really belong in a blog such as this one. This blog is intended to provide a Jen-sized lens through which to view my stay in Germany and not to serve as a medium for me to post typical, inside-my-head emotions. So, yes. Alles klar.
Yesterday was rather enjoyable. As I am prone to do on Saturday mornings and early afternoons, I strolled about the Altstadt, this time with the intent to purchase (cheap) Christmas gifts for family. And, my mission was successfully completed. (Hey, see what I did there? I used passive voice. Why is this important? Because I don't have to worry about using it anymore. Put that in your juice box and suck it, college history and literature essays.) However, while on my search for Christmas gift goodness, I came across these following jewels:
Near the Altes Rathaus (which is also tourist information), I spotted two slightly over middle-aged men exiting the building, glancing over a map of the Altstadt. I overheard their conversation and noticed their heavily English accent. So, I decided to do something completely random (for me):
Me: "Englisch?"
Men: "Uhh...yeah."
Me: "No, this is cool! It's always nice to hear English around here."
Men: "Oh, are you...English?"
Me: "American. Are you tourists?"
Men: (quick glance at map) "Uh, no."
(some more pleasantries, exchanges of background info, and wary glances from the men)
Me: "By the way, sorry about randomly butting into your conversation." (They were very disoriented.)
Men: "Not at all. We thought you were a German wanting to practice English."
It turns out that these two Englishmen were members of the base that is situated near/in Celle and that one of the men was new here (hence, the map). Though I think I scared them a bit, it was a good experience for me. Sometimes I do get this impulse to butt into a conversation with a complete stranger, and usually it turns out well. Though, most people give me a look that implies that they are very startled that a very short, very...chipper young woman, someone who totally does not resemble the standard con artist that they have been warned about, attempts to converse with them.
Other highlights of the afternoon include the local (English) street musician singing "Ring of Fire" near Rossmanns, some flute players playing "Chiquitita," spying an elderly gentleman who resembled a Country Western Santa Claus, and having hot chocolate with Maryle during a nasty bout of weather.
Today was also a bit adventurous, for it is Meerit's eighth birthday. I am currently in the process of knitting her a soft, red scarf, but, staying true to my procrastinating form, it's...unfinished. Andrea invited me to "coffee" at 15:00, which, of course, means coffee, tea, three different kinds of cakes, and cupcakes. Of course. I met Andrea's mother, Lina, and Tjark's parents. Meerit's godmother and Andrea's brother also arrived, albeit late. So, we set about eating multiple portions of the diabetes-inducing feast, with Lina scolding me for not finishing the third piece of cake that had been forcibly placed before me. Overall, though, it was another enjoyable experience, despite the fact that I continuously blunder through my German and wonder why Fulbright saw fit to give me this job. However, it is a jovial wonder, so it's okay.
To once again clear my head, I walked through the field this morning and evening. It's my own little slog of utopia, that field, at least right now. Even though I'm alone here, even though I've had to face some personal demons this past week...I still feel very much at peace in this little strip of land in Germany. No matter how down on myself I get while here, no matter how many personal flaws I will come to realize and confront, I know that when I take my afternoon stroll through the field, I can feel that, somehow, everything will be all right. Everything will, for better or for worse, resolve itself...one way or the other, it will work out.
Take a deep breath. Ready? Steady? Go!
Showing posts with label altstadt. Show all posts
Showing posts with label altstadt. Show all posts
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Not Feeling So Hot
Literally. It gets cold in the flat during the day. During the night, though, it's comfortable.
But, I also mean the title figuratively, in the fact that I'm feeling the standard change-of-weather illness coming on and the fact that I'm kind of gloomy. I do, however, think it's just a general "blegh" feeling that will last for perhaps a couple of days and then carry on. Also, generally miserable weather tends to get me down. Coffee and tea, those staples of my diet, will save the day.
Nothing too terribly interesting to report. I'm slowly learning how to ride a bicycle. My attempts at maintaining balance goes a little something like this:
(straddle, straddle, kickoff, womp)
Try again.
(straddle, straddle, straddle, kickoff...womp)
Again...
(straddle.straddle.straddle, kicko--ALMOST...womp)
But, I'm very slowly improving. As my great and patient teacher, Maryle, says: baby steps. After I conquer the (kid's) bike, I will name it. I'm currently musing over potential names as I type, but the right one will come when (yes, when) the time is right.
I now have European clothing. This merits honorable mention because I know exactly how to wash said clothing. German washing machines are a little different than their American counterparts in the fact that certain pieces of clothing require a certain temperature. This isn't so different, but the directions of the clothing tags are, since it tells you the temperature, rather than saying "machine wash cold." Random fact.
Another random fact: Germans have no concept of personal space. This means that, while in line at the grocery store, they will get up right next to you and start piling their groceries even when you yourself are not finished. This means that, while waiting in line anywhere, they will cut in front of you. This also means that, when walking, a motorist will inch and almost hit you when you are crossing the street. And, at the risk of sounding too redundant while making my point, it also means that your coworkers will talk to you a mere five inches from your face.
I do love cultural differences. (I actually do.)
But, I also mean the title figuratively, in the fact that I'm feeling the standard change-of-weather illness coming on and the fact that I'm kind of gloomy. I do, however, think it's just a general "blegh" feeling that will last for perhaps a couple of days and then carry on. Also, generally miserable weather tends to get me down. Coffee and tea, those staples of my diet, will save the day.
Nothing too terribly interesting to report. I'm slowly learning how to ride a bicycle. My attempts at maintaining balance goes a little something like this:
(straddle, straddle, kickoff, womp)
Try again.
(straddle, straddle, straddle, kickoff...womp)
Again...
(straddle.straddle.straddle, kicko--ALMOST...womp)
But, I'm very slowly improving. As my great and patient teacher, Maryle, says: baby steps. After I conquer the (kid's) bike, I will name it. I'm currently musing over potential names as I type, but the right one will come when (yes, when) the time is right.
* * *
I now have European clothing. This merits honorable mention because I know exactly how to wash said clothing. German washing machines are a little different than their American counterparts in the fact that certain pieces of clothing require a certain temperature. This isn't so different, but the directions of the clothing tags are, since it tells you the temperature, rather than saying "machine wash cold." Random fact.
Another random fact: Germans have no concept of personal space. This means that, while in line at the grocery store, they will get up right next to you and start piling their groceries even when you yourself are not finished. This means that, while waiting in line anywhere, they will cut in front of you. This also means that, when walking, a motorist will inch and almost hit you when you are crossing the street. And, at the risk of sounding too redundant while making my point, it also means that your coworkers will talk to you a mere five inches from your face.
I do love cultural differences. (I actually do.)
* * *
Upon boarding the bus from the Altstadt yesterday, it was drizzling outside. A man with a rainbow umbrella, just a regularly-dressed man with a rainbow umbrella, approached a group of older men dressed in dark, drab business suits and sporting dark, drab umbrellas. It made me smile.
Also, today I went on my usual walk in order to stretch my legs and get some fresh air. I went a little earlier than usual, sensing that the rain would return (which it did, much to my chagrin). On my walk, I saw a middle-aged woman walking a rather elderly dog, its slow gait becoming a little quicker every now and then when a new, interesting scent was discovered. The dog started pulling at the leash when it saw me, and, as is the norm with me, I smiled. For the first time in my stay in Celle, a pedestrian smiled back and started talking to me, allowing me to pet the dog and expressing surprise that the dog warmed up to me immediately. After a few exchanges of pleasantries, I learned that the woman (Ilse? Inge?) lived on Witzlebenstrasse, the dog's name is Bella, and the latter is thirteen years old. Then, we parted ways, she back to her apartment with Bella, and I with an extra spring in my step...despite the oncoming drizzle.
Yes, this is trivial information and probably does not appear to be fascinating blog fodder. But, the point here is that I had a very pleasant conversation with a complete stranger in German, which comes as a big surprise for someone who had to this point encountered mistrustful glances from others while walking. It gives one hope, I guess.
That's pretty much all I've got, today. Oh, and did I tell you that my parents are visiting me in November? They totally are. It will be so interesting to see if I've changed and to see what they think of Celle.
Also, today I went on my usual walk in order to stretch my legs and get some fresh air. I went a little earlier than usual, sensing that the rain would return (which it did, much to my chagrin). On my walk, I saw a middle-aged woman walking a rather elderly dog, its slow gait becoming a little quicker every now and then when a new, interesting scent was discovered. The dog started pulling at the leash when it saw me, and, as is the norm with me, I smiled. For the first time in my stay in Celle, a pedestrian smiled back and started talking to me, allowing me to pet the dog and expressing surprise that the dog warmed up to me immediately. After a few exchanges of pleasantries, I learned that the woman (Ilse? Inge?) lived on Witzlebenstrasse, the dog's name is Bella, and the latter is thirteen years old. Then, we parted ways, she back to her apartment with Bella, and I with an extra spring in my step...despite the oncoming drizzle.
Yes, this is trivial information and probably does not appear to be fascinating blog fodder. But, the point here is that I had a very pleasant conversation with a complete stranger in German, which comes as a big surprise for someone who had to this point encountered mistrustful glances from others while walking. It gives one hope, I guess.
That's pretty much all I've got, today. Oh, and did I tell you that my parents are visiting me in November? They totally are. It will be so interesting to see if I've changed and to see what they think of Celle.
"What, my dear Lady Disdain! are you yet living?"
(Much Ado About Nothing, I.i.118)
(Much Ado About Nothing, I.i.118)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Lazin' About on a Sunday Afternoon...
...and loving it, actually.
Back in Alabama, I hated being lazy on the weekend, despite the fact that I was most of the time. I suppose that, during the college semester, my weekends were devoted entirely to my studies...and, particularly during that last semester, weekends were draining. This past summer also saw me loathing laziness on the weekends, as the standard ennui of being a lethargic young adult kept growing on me like a...well, like a rather lethargic tumor. Of course, that was also because I was unemployed, had a degree, and spent my time with friends almost constantly because I knew I wouldn't be able to for ten months (which was nice). But, now that I have a job that requires me running after German kiddies--and in a language I hardly know, at that--, I find that being lazy on a Sunday is very pleasant. It's also an ample opportunity to drink far too much coffee and tea.
Let's travel into one of my digressions that was triggered because of my mention of tea. Every Saturday (and apparently every Wednesday), the Altstadt hosts a fresh market in the morning and early afternoon. This causes me much happiness, as one can purchase practically everything one needs for delicious sustenance for the week: cheese, meat, rolls, honey, jam, and...TEA. Like, loose tea. Like, leaves that have been dried from a home-grown plant tea. There's this one stand at the fresh market, Dudel Wuerzt, that sells spices and bags of tea at around 3.50 euros a pop, sometimes more expensive. Being the total tea dork that I am, I purchased a bag of peppermint and apple tea, respectively. I've never seen tea leaves look that fresh, but this is because I'm usually cheap and buy the tea bags (i.e., sawdust) or the Harney & Sons loose tea. Anyway, I tried the peppermint tea upon my return home after a jaunt in the Franzoesischer Garten, and...yum. This makes me happy.
Needless to say, these past two weekends have been rather nice, overall. Last Saturday brought about the visit of one Abby, a friend I had made at orientation. She lives in Wolfsburg, a new city a bit south from here. I was super-excited that she made a trip to Celle, and we had much fun stomping around the Altstadt, visiting the castle (der Schloss) and eating at an "American" restaurant, the Grand Canyon. Good schnitzel and beer there, ironically enough. This Friday, the other teaching assistant, Maryle, and I went a-shopping for shoes that proved unsuccessful, yet quite fun. Also, lunch at a particular Indian restaurant is only about 6.00 euros on Fridays.
Why am I mentioning the food? Oh, right. Because they're the only meals I've had that are nice and hot. I take care of myself so well. (I do, actually.)
It's still a bit surreal to be here and to be getting into a steady routine. To actually start having a "career" and a "real life" (though, I'm sure that both can and will be debated). To start wondering why in the world I didn't travel more in North America, especially since I have friends in very interesting parts of the world, like Montreal, Los Angeles, and Tampa. We'll see what I can do when I return... Right now, I need to see where I will go in the magical land of Germany and the rest of Europe.
One step at a time. Ready? Steady? Go!
Back in Alabama, I hated being lazy on the weekend, despite the fact that I was most of the time. I suppose that, during the college semester, my weekends were devoted entirely to my studies...and, particularly during that last semester, weekends were draining. This past summer also saw me loathing laziness on the weekends, as the standard ennui of being a lethargic young adult kept growing on me like a...well, like a rather lethargic tumor. Of course, that was also because I was unemployed, had a degree, and spent my time with friends almost constantly because I knew I wouldn't be able to for ten months (which was nice). But, now that I have a job that requires me running after German kiddies--and in a language I hardly know, at that--, I find that being lazy on a Sunday is very pleasant. It's also an ample opportunity to drink far too much coffee and tea.
Let's travel into one of my digressions that was triggered because of my mention of tea. Every Saturday (and apparently every Wednesday), the Altstadt hosts a fresh market in the morning and early afternoon. This causes me much happiness, as one can purchase practically everything one needs for delicious sustenance for the week: cheese, meat, rolls, honey, jam, and...TEA. Like, loose tea. Like, leaves that have been dried from a home-grown plant tea. There's this one stand at the fresh market, Dudel Wuerzt, that sells spices and bags of tea at around 3.50 euros a pop, sometimes more expensive. Being the total tea dork that I am, I purchased a bag of peppermint and apple tea, respectively. I've never seen tea leaves look that fresh, but this is because I'm usually cheap and buy the tea bags (i.e., sawdust) or the Harney & Sons loose tea. Anyway, I tried the peppermint tea upon my return home after a jaunt in the Franzoesischer Garten, and...yum. This makes me happy.
Needless to say, these past two weekends have been rather nice, overall. Last Saturday brought about the visit of one Abby, a friend I had made at orientation. She lives in Wolfsburg, a new city a bit south from here. I was super-excited that she made a trip to Celle, and we had much fun stomping around the Altstadt, visiting the castle (der Schloss) and eating at an "American" restaurant, the Grand Canyon. Good schnitzel and beer there, ironically enough. This Friday, the other teaching assistant, Maryle, and I went a-shopping for shoes that proved unsuccessful, yet quite fun. Also, lunch at a particular Indian restaurant is only about 6.00 euros on Fridays.
Why am I mentioning the food? Oh, right. Because they're the only meals I've had that are nice and hot. I take care of myself so well. (I do, actually.)
It's still a bit surreal to be here and to be getting into a steady routine. To actually start having a "career" and a "real life" (though, I'm sure that both can and will be debated). To start wondering why in the world I didn't travel more in North America, especially since I have friends in very interesting parts of the world, like Montreal, Los Angeles, and Tampa. We'll see what I can do when I return... Right now, I need to see where I will go in the magical land of Germany and the rest of Europe.
One step at a time. Ready? Steady? Go!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Ich habe Fotos!
As one of my friends has pointed out (ahem, BILL), I probably need to post photos on here (because I have been taking a LOT of them). So, here are some of my new home, Celle.
First two: The Altstadt (where the ridiculous amount of bicycles are prominently displayed); the castle (der Schloss) that has a MOAT; my friend and I, who are very happy to be in the castle with a moat; and my school, Grundschule Klein Hehlen.
In other news: I've made two consecutive cups of decent instant coffee today. The solution? Put a lot of milk in that shit.
First two: The Altstadt (where the ridiculous amount of bicycles are prominently displayed); the castle (der Schloss) that has a MOAT; my friend and I, who are very happy to be in the castle with a moat; and my school, Grundschule Klein Hehlen.In other news: I've made two consecutive cups of decent instant coffee today. The solution? Put a lot of milk in that shit.
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