Behind the Bookcase

Berlin Road Trip!

2010-03-04T03:10:00.000-08:00

Road Trip! Say no more....

Well ... I'd like to say a lil sumpin - we had so much fun on our road trip from Heidelberg to Berlin (633km, about a 6hr drive). John and I decided it would be fun to drive instead of taking the train - and in this case it was also less expensive.

The primary purpose of our two day getaway ... the Owl City concert. The artist is a guy who made music in his folks' basement, uploaded it to myspace, and became an undergroud guru break-out singer.

Essentially, he's a geek who makes good music and the teenagers who still live with us asked, "Hey, can we go?" In a moment of weekness, very early on a Saturday morning - we said "Yes"?? The warm-up act was Lights - her live performance is crazy better than her recordings... perhaps it was the wicked base!

And I'm so glad we did - it was good times together: in the car, time in Berlin, a hole-in-the-wall hotel that's a real gem, and a couple great performances in a venue that hold 250 people standing shoulder to shoulder.

Truck stop on the way to Berlin

John and Flower at our lunch stop - too cute!

Joe outside the Magnet Disco - "sold out" meant the scalpers were on the sidewalk trying to get their mitts on our hot, hot tickets.

Flower and Joe gettin' their party on.

Us setting up a beach head away from Joe and Flower.

Our view of the stage - Lights performing

Flower and Joe entrenched themselves NEXT TO the stage - in front of a subwoofer and below a hanging speaker. We expect them to have hearing loss.

Joe and I took a walkabout the neighborhood before the concert. Here he is just after buying some fruit to go with dinner.

Who needs a rolling hot dog cart when the vendor becomes the cart??

Loved the architecture.

This was the view of the hotel parking lot from our room. This is the entire parking lot.

Euro potty. Yep - that's the shower behind the toilet and yep - that's a full size, climb-out window in the shower. Plenty of towels. But - this hotel room was really an apartment with lots of room and a full-size kitchen.

The MOST EXOTIC breakfast we've had at a hotel - and this was included in the price of the room. There were so many delicacies: pancetta wrapped around a cream cheese spread, stuffed mushrooms, olives stuffed with a luscious spread, shrimp salad, latkes, meatballs, tomato slices with mozzerella and basil, scrambled eggs with ham chunks, ... and the rest of a typical european breakfast spread. And, it just looks pretty.

Love these guys!

So glad we could party with these two.

I was most surprised with all the art around Berlin. We drove through many different areas of Berlin and we saw art in every kind of neighborhood. It was outstanding and so uplifting.

Concerts, Berlin, and road trips with my people is totally where it's at.

Fasching!

2010-02-16T21:43:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again.... time to get your party on and attend Fasching! It's a celebration tied to Lent somehow - but is designed to scare away the demons of winter. Sounds like Mardi Gras with a sprinkling of Groundhog's Day.

The parade runs through town and down the Haupstrasse (a 1.1 km walking route lined with shops, restaurants, banks, plazas, etc. Joe and I decided to walk to the center of town to enjoy the full compliment of the festivities. There were a ton of costumes, crazy hats, and face painting ... and that was just the spectators.

"Joe, please stand over by the carousel for the little guys - I want to take your picture."

Joe buying a Nutella crepe.

The two of us making our way to the Bismarkplatz.

We staked out a great spot, but just before the parade we switched to the other side of the street for a better exit strategy.

I love this guy.

Certainly, there was a heavy police presence....

.... with face paint!

Part of 'scaring off the demons of winter' inspired plenty of costumes. This 'old witch' was the pre-game show while we waited for the parade to start. She rallied and teased the crowd and was rewarded with plenty of applause and laughter. The wee ones standing near us kept hollering something. I asked Joe, "what are they saying?" He had to listen carefully (kids talk funny in all languages, eh?) and heard, "Hexa." The little kids kept calling the for the witch so they would be teased, etc. It was so cute ... I can neither confirm nor deny that I joined the kindergartners and shouted for the hexa.

This guy is wearing a friar's robe, a blue Santa Claus hat with holes, and drinking a beer... and he's partying with his momz? We couldn't quite figure it out - later we saw he'd pulled down the hat over his face ski-mask-style. I suppose some things are better left a mystery.

A really good marching band. Every member of every band we saw was wearing face paint. Nothing quite like a rousing band at a parade.

Joe's friend from school stopped by the apartment after we got home to show us her costume - looks fantastic!

A good walk, lots of people, costumes and face paint, an outrageous confetti cannon, and being there with Joe... totally where it's at.

The Reasons Why...

2010-02-07T13:08:00.001-08:00

One day at a time for the last thirteen years these people have encouraged me to become a better person. I'm not sure they would say that, but that's my reality. My moment of clarity was real simple, "if you keep doing what you're doing, you're gonna lose your kids." Ok.

Today, I have a great life. John is an amazing husband. The kids make me laugh. And because I want sobriety more than I don't, I'll keep coming back.

Flower, Joe, Marie, Jack

Dec 2009 - Heidelberg Germany

Joe, Flower, Marie, Jack

Oct 2007 - St. Charles, Missouri

taken the day before Jack left for his mission to Russia

John (red shorts) at the finish line of the MS150

SO proud of him!

Aug. 2007 - Columbia, Missouri

Jack, Joe, Flower, Marie

Aug 2007 - Nauvoo, Illinois

camping

Jack, Flower, Marie, Joe

June 2007 - St. Charles, Missouri

Jack, Flower, Marie, Joe

Summer 2007 - St. Charles, Missouri

Flower, Marie, Jack, Joe

Dec 2006 - Honolulu, Hawaii

February 2005 - Washington, DC

Marie, Jack, Joe, Flower

July 2005 - Washington, DC

Outside our house in DC - 2005

Flower, Jack, Joe, John, Marie

Summer 2004 - Nauvoo, Illinois

camping

Jack, Marie, Joe, Flower

Aug 2003 - St. Charles, Missouri

our house on Lindenwood Ave.

December 2002 - St. Charles, Missouri

Flower, Jack, Marie, Joe
Jun 2001 - St. Charles, Missouri

taken a week before our trip to the temple

John, Flower, Jack, Joe, Marie, Julia

Easter 1999 - Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Marie's First Holy Communion

Marie, Flower, Jack, Joe

Spring 1996 - Melbourne, Florida

Family is where it's at.

Christmas Vacation 2009 - Day Seven

2010-01-22T07:35:00.001-08:00

The final day of our Christmas Vacation was a travel day - headed for home in Heidelberg Germany. We didn't have to start at a crazy-early hour ... which was very nice.

At the centrail train station we mailed a few post cards, enjoyed a hot chocolate, and made our way to the right platform. We took the ICE from Brussels to Frankfurt.

Usually when we travel by train, we prefer to sit in an enclosed little compartment that seats 6 people and has a lovely table. In the past we've watched movies, shared songs, napped, and told stories all in the privacy of our own enclosure with a sliding glass door. This time however, we enjoyed the Panorama Suite. It's a collection of 8 seats just behind the train engineer's "flight deck." While the train is at the station, the floor to ceiling glass is opaque, but as soon as he/she pulls away, the wall of glass clears up and passengers can see out the front of the train and watch the engineer at the controls. Talk about super cool! They were great seats.

After arriving in Frankfurt, we had just enough time to grab a plate of our favorite chinese noodles (and a couple take-home containers) before hopping on the train to Heidelberg. We arrived at the hauptbahnhof (central train station) then took a local train to the stop just 3 blocks from our house.

It was great to walk in the door at home after being away for a week. The trip was wonderful and so memorable. Most of us learned from previous trip to pack lighter and the traveling was much easier. I was glad we made the effort and took the time to be together.

Central train station in Brussels.

Jack, Marie, Flower, John, & Joe

Peeking out from behind a piece of art in the Brussels station.

On the platform before boarding the train for home.

Working a crossword puzzle ... in ink.

"Look here!"

Jack doesn't look interested in the puzzle and John appears to be feeding Flower the answers.

The train engineer's control center. So cool.

A reflection of John.

Jack and Flower on the trip to Frankfurt. The seats are on raised platforms - stadium style for a better view.

Just arrived in Frankfurt!

Joe, Marie, Jack, Flower, & John

Waiting for the local train in Heidelberg to take us from the hbf to home.

Joe, Flower, John, Jack & Marie

The holidays with my people, seeing new and fantastic sights, and arriving home safely is where it's at.

Christmas Vacation, 2009 - Day Six

2010-01-16T10:59:00.000-08:00

Day Six was a travel day from London England to Brussels Belgium. We started waaay early in the morning and were at the train station before 7am. Too early in fact for public transportation; we had to arrange for a taxi large enough for all of us plus our backpacks.

We had quite a lovely two-course breakfast on the Eurostar for our return trip - complete with steamed washcloths when we were done.

Knowing we wouldn't be in Belgium very long, we didn't make too many plans. And that was a good thing. As it turned out ... the folks in Brussels were not as friendly as folks in other places. That was sad and disappointing and unfortunately consistent everywhere we went... buying metro cards, hotel, restaurants, etc. On the plus side, we did not start an international incident on the metro back to our hotel after an afternoon of site seeing.

Bright Spot! The Atomium was constructed as part of the 1958 World's Fair. It was very cutting edge for the day and quite futuristic (remembering that Sputnik was launched in Oct 1957). This is the single largest attraction in all of Belgium - and just plan fun. Folks can walk up just so far and then wait in line to take an elevator to the top.

Additionally, there is a retro museum at the base of the Atomium as well as inside several of the spheres... it covers 1955 to 1963. This was super fun to walk around.

Afterwards, we found a Mexican restaurant. The food wasn't so bad, but the company was better. Fortunately, we didn't have anything else on itinerary, so we could take as much time sitting and talking as we wanted to. Good times for sure. Our hotel rooms were nice and we stayed up watching something captioned on television.

Arrived at St. Pancras to take the Eurostar to Belgium - looking very bright eyed.

Hot Chocolate Marie and Where Are My Gloves Joe.

Relaxing on the Eurostar before getting underway.

Most of the backpacks.

Flower and Joe - you can just see John's shoulder on the left.

Mural down the block from out hotel in Brussels.

Found this sweet carousel.

The Atomium

That small cluster of people at the bottom, in the middle of the picture is my family.

Inside the Atomium at the base level.

Flower, John, Marie, Joe, Jack

Living in Germany, traveled to Paris, London, & Brussels to eat a Mexican dinner inside an American Conestoga wagon. Priceless.

Burritos, fajitas, tacos, and sparkling water with my people is where it's at.

Christmas Vacation, 2009 - Day Five

2010-01-14T22:24:00.001-08:00

Happy Boxing Day from London. From the looks of it, Boxing Day is the social equivalent of Black Friday in the States.

We had a very, very busy day after Christmas. We started with a bus ride to the London Eye. We had attempted to ride this gigantic ferris wheel on Christmas Eve, but the timing wasn't right. However, the Eye was having technical problems the morning we were to ride (argh!) - the employees didn't know when it would be operational, so we decided to pass on it, get our money back, and try again the next time we're in London (it's a good thing - they were not able to honor tickets all day).

The photo ops for Big Ben and the House of Parliment was next - it was just fabulous to stand and look. How many movies or television shows have we seen this backdrop? shoot, CNN uses the same space we were standing on for 'live shots from London'. It was fantastic. I was so glad to to be there.

After that, we had to get to a rally point for the motor coach and guided tour of Stonehenge. Can you believe it?! How exciting is that? Well, maybe some won't find it interesting, but Marie and I sure did. After we found where we needed to be, we were early - so we had some lunch and bought a few postcards.

The ride to Stonehenge was uneventful (I think I took a nap after we hit the countryside). For real, these rocks are in the middle of nowhere. We had the advantage of the audio guide - very cool information there. We walked all the way around and learned much about the surrounding area and some prevailing myths. Since we were there at sunset, some of the snapshots are pretty fabulous. I don't know why I've always been fascinated with Stonehenge, but I have and it was a real treat to be there with my people.

Arriving back in the city we hit the largest mall in all of England - fortunately we weren't there very long. whew! But, it was just across the street from the movie cinema where we took in the late showing of "Sherlock Holmes." It was interesting that in the movie it depicted the Tower Bridge as being under construction ... and we had been there just the day before.

After we got back to our hotel we wanted to collapse from all the fun. Of course we needed to pack our backpacks again - time in London had run out.

Waiting for a bus.

Jack, Marie, Flower, Joe

John set up this shot - he's so fun!

All of us together in London.

Unposed shot.

The London Eye

I love this picture - we're all doing something.

Walking over to the Waterloo Station.

I liked how all the buses looked all lined up.

Waiting for the underground train.

Flower & Joe - on bus to Stonehenge.

Marie & Jack - on bus to Stonehenge.

Us too!

Marie, Flower, Jack, Joe - just before we left.

On the bus back to town.

The countryside and Stonehenge with my people is where it's at.

Christmas Vacation, 2009 - Day Four

2010-01-13T12:13:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day

It wasn't a conventional Christmas Day by most thinking, but it was a terrific day all together. We all slept in late, watched television, read books, ate a hot breakfast, listened to music, and visited with each other. After that, it was nap time.

We took off on foot in the afternoon and found an open chicken diner (100% deep fat fried), but yummy nonetheless. Anyway, we saw some interesting architecture and took a few pictures at London Bridge.

I think our biggest adventure of the day was strolling along the Thames River toward the Tower Bridge. It is spectacular! Lit up at night - even more so. We were able to take our time and listen to each other while enjoying the Christmas lights.

On the way back to our hotel we went past the Globe Theatre. And, since we weren't cold enough, we treated ourselves to some ice cream back at the hotel.

We have had a request to stay at home next year - put up a traditional tree, hang stockings, and serve ham with deviled eggs. There is much to be said about family traditions - but I so enjoy making memories together in our travels knowing full well we can exchange gifts another year and there will be years that travel won't likely be possible.

Interesting architecture.

Merry Christmas Jack and Joe

Merry Christmas Flower and Marie

What I wouldn't give for any green vegetable at this spread.

At the Thames River wall
John, Joe, Flower, Jack, Marie

Tower Bridge

Let the good times roll.

Christmas Stockings 2009

Holidays with my people is where it's at.

Christmas Vacation, 2009 - Day Three

2010-01-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

Good Morning, London!

Since we weren't on an a moment by monent timeline (we had a schedule, but we allowed for relaxation, etc.), we slept in a wee bit. Took a bus to Waterloo Station and walked across the Thames River. We could see so many wonderful sights up and down the river from the pedestrian bridge that was constructed adjacent to a train tressel.

Our short walk took us to Trafalgar Square with it's statues and fountains. Several art museums, churchs, and embassies ring the square and made for some pretty great pictures.

We decided as a group to hike down to Buckingham Palace from there (1.2 miles). It was terrific to walk and talk and catch-up with each other. St. James Park was simply lovely. The Queen was in residence as evidenced by the Standard flying.

After a hot lunch, we were just a couple blocks away from the Victoria Apollo Theatre. After checking their coats and bags, Jack, Marie, Joe, and Flower enjoyed the London ensemble of "Wicked." We were so happy they could attend!

John and I walked for a bit, then took a taxi to Harrod's Department Store. It was far more than I could ever have expected. There nearly wasn't anything we couldn't buy there - designer fashions, furniture, jewelry, cooked ham, Krispy Kreme, etc. I didn't make any purchases; justing walking through was enough.

After that, we took a train to the London Eye where we met with the kids. It was spectacular all lit up. We believed we had scheduled a flight on the Eye, but their call center wasn't up to speed on the abbreviated Christmas Eve hours of operation - they suggested we return on 26 December, first thing in the morning.

A take-away chicken dinner and some television capped the busy day. It seemed like a long day because of all the walking, at the same time, we had seen and done so much.

Headed to the pedestrian bridge to cross the Thames River.

How many Murphy's can fit in a telephone booth?

These two are so handsome.

Not a thing wrong in being a tourist.

On approach to Buckingham Palace.

Outside Buckingham Palace - cuttin' up and havin' fun.

What's for lunch? Fish and chips, of course.

Joe, Flower, Marie, Jack

THE department store.

Walking and talking with my people is where it's at.

Christmas Vacation, 2009 - Day Two

2010-01-11T11:04:00.000-08:00

The second day of our vacation was a travel day. We woke early, made it downstairs to the breakfast offered (french bread, butter, jam, yogurt, coffee, juice). It wasn't what we're accustomed to in our travels, but it was enough to keep a body going.

Rail travel through the Chunnel was a bit delayed, but we made it in fine fashion. Traveling through the EU countries is seamless, but Great Britain is not an European Union country so we met with passport control and had a currency change. BUT, all of us could read the signs, watch english language television, and eavesdrop on nearby conversations.

Because of the delays, we arrived later than planned and needed to truncate our activities. After checking into our hotel, we set out on foot to find a little hole-in-the-wall serving fish-n-chips (not a pub) and added a ride on a double-decker bus for good measure. Success! Joe found a clean little place for dinner and we took our time eating and talking. It was fantastic to just sit around and share old stories and new ones.

On the way back to our hotel we stopped at a 24-hr market and bought a few snack provisions and Tylenol to tide us over. We stayed up way past midnight to keep the conversation going. The weather was rainy.

Writing out postcards before leaving Paris.

Gare de Lyon - This is the international control area for trains going to London.

We had a few minutes and found a nice spot on the floor to relax.

St. Pancras Station, London, England. "Meeting Place"

Jack, Marie, Flower, Joe, John - St. Pancras Station

Waiting to purchase the 'Oyster Card' for public transportation to move about London.

Joe about to Harry Potter himself.

Waiting at the London Bridge underground tube stop for a connecting train.

Fish and Chips fancy style - with beans and a salad.

I still think one of my favorite memories of the trip was when we sat around for hours at this little restaurant in Southwark - eating dinner, catching up, laughing, asking new questions, finding old answers, and the time spent sitting with family.

Traveling to London with my people is totally where it's at.

Christmas Vacaction, 2009 - Day One

2010-01-10T11:28:00.000-08:00

I don't even know where to start when it comes to blogging about our Christmas vacation. We put the kids in charge of planning events since we weren't willing to spend a truck-load of money on a trip and then hear somebody mutter, "We didn't do one thing I was interested in."

So, we caucaused and weighed time against budget against cool factor. Bottom line, we had some good times and made some great memories.

Traveling 1st class by rail ....

Heidelberg, Germany to Paris, France (1 day)
London, England (4 days)
Brussels, Belgium (1 day)
back home to Heidelberg.

In case you were watching the international news, the Chunnel underneath the English Channel had been shut down just days prior to our trip, but was open for limited service when we were scheduled to travel. Crowded, yes - but we made it through safely.

PARIS ITINERARY

Arrive Gare de L'est

Check into hotel

Ste. Sulpice

Louvre

Lunch on the Left Bank

Notre Dame

Eiffel Tower

Arc de Triomphe

Dinner

Metro back to hotel

Platform leaving Heidelberg for Mannheim.

Platform leaving Mannheim going to Paris

Arrived in Paris

Gare de L'Est, Paris

Yes, it seemed like Paradise.

John standing on the balcony of our hotel room.

Ste. Sulpice (think, DaVinci Code)

Flower, Marie, Me - Love this picture.

Walking from Metro to Louvre

Louvre is closed on Tuesdays (we knew that), but wanted to get some pics.

Notre Dame - free guided tour in English. Suh-weeet.

Eiffel Tower as dusk. Spectacular.

In the lift on the way to the 1st deck of the Tower, of course we took another lift to the summit.

John, Jack, Flower, Joe, Marie

Arc de Triomphe

Paris with all my people at Christmas-time is definately where it's at.

Pictures = 1000 Words

2009-12-12T23:24:00.000-08:00

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then I think I'll keep it simple.

Some pearls I've learned along the way:

Families can be simple but not easy.

Parenting is guerilla warfare.

Find the joy and bring your kids along.

Quantity time matters.

John and Jack waiting for Marie at the Frankfurt Airport... it was 5:45am.

Me and Jack - we know the flight has landed, but she's working her way through immigration and baggage claim. Looks like I could use a Diet Coke, eh?

Marie!

John took this great picture from the other direction - with Jack snapping the camera, I guess the other folks were looking to see which rock star was arriving.

Jack, Marie, and me.

John and Marie - don't they look happy?

So glad she had a great semester at the LDS BC - gotta love Christmas break in Germany.

The casually-strolling-back-to-the-parking-garage look.

I added it since because I can still embarass some of my people. ☺

After a quick nap, I drug Marie up to the Heidelberg Int'l School Fall Festival. Flower's grade was in charge of face painting... Marie was such a good sport to get her face painted too.

Joe and Flower - terrific students and a real support to the school. I love these guys.

Marie, Joe, and Flower

Marie, "I look funny without my glasses."

Flower, "Are we done yet?"

Joe, "Last one, then I'm outta here, right?"

FINALLY - all four together!

Joe, Jack, Flower, & Marie.

My people finding their way back to one continent is where it's at.

Finland For Fun Times

2009-11-27T07:41:00.000-08:00

An American living in Germany travels to Finland to attend a Russian church service. Please pass the Excedrin for the multi-language induced headache!

It all started when Jack returned from his mission...

A few church members from the area of Russia where he served had planned for months to attend the LDS Helsinki Finland Temple. It was great timing and a terrific opportunity for him to meet with his friends. And he invited me along?! John arranged for air travel and accomodations - I love that guy!

Here is the aircraft taking us from Riga, Latvia to Helsinki, Finland - though it was only 5:45, you can tell it was already quite dark out.

Ever heard of AirBaltic??

Jack outside the Helsinki Temple - though it rained on and off during our visit, it wasn't bothersome.

This is a picture of me with the temple in the background - we were walking to the bus stop that would take us to the center of town.

We treated ourselves to a sit down dinner one night and then shared a dessert - yes, there are flower petals adorning the ice cream.

Another picture of me - this time outside the Helsinki main train station - I loved the architecture.

I wanted a snapshot of these stone statues on an entrace to the train station - the art deco globes are wonderful and the proportion pretty amazing.

There are some of church members Jack worked along side during his mission in Russia. They were very warm and welcoming to me.

This is us with one of the Russian church members (she teaches English) who made the two-day trip to travel to Helsinki - first an exhaustive train ride to St. Petersburg and then a bus up and around to Helsinki.

We happened upon the United Nations World Awareness of Violence Against Women Day in a plaza near Helsinki's city center. The artwork was terrific, but the cutout silhouettes were really the focus. Individual stores had been written up and posted on each frame. There was an information booth and free candle people could light in remembrance of this day. None of the literature was in English, but that didn't stop me.

After serving in the temple for two mornings and walking 8 hours a day (taking in the sights, sounds, tastes, and shopping of Helsinki) - I was ready to head back home to John and Flower and Joe. It was great traveling with Jack who had been to Helsinki 3 previous times for visa trips - he's a terrific guide.

Home for Thanksgiving... time with my people... visiting the capitols of Europe... dishes, homework, and laundry that keep things grounded is really where it's at.

Re-entry... A Family Deal

2009-11-22T01:34:00.001-08:00

We have been so grateful to have Jack returned home after honorably and faithfully serving two years in Russia. I can't begin to imagine how he feels during a time of leaving his best two years and reintegrating back to a lifestyle more familiar to most of us. Courage folks.

First things first, Jack returned with one suitcase which included: a bad Russian suit (did you know some suits are washer/dryer safe?), one pair of jeans, two torn polo shirts, three raggedy t-shirts, and a mix of sock monsters. Off to the PX for some basics ... all the signs in the store are in English.

Joe and Flower showing Jack the lastest in Wii video games.

Agnes the kitten offering her warmest welcome.

The schedule doesn't change .. Tuesday was Young Women in Excellence Night. We're so proud of Flower.

Schnitzel Wednesday! A family favorite. At Funari Barracks there's a small German Kanteen that offers the best schnitzel - only on Wednesdays. If you go with us, I'm gonna take your picture - it's tradition. Jack's response, "Really? A picture?"

Running shoes... so many choices.

Joe and Jack headed out for a run - I love these guys like crazy.

Agnes' continued warm welcome.

On our way to the CityMarkt and other errands. This is the gasse (alley) alongside the rathaus (city hall) before entering the Marktplatz.

We loved the wreath hanging from the stature in the middle of the Marktplatz - it's the largest and busiest market in Alstadt (old town). We love the church - it's such a prominent feature on the rooflines of town. John and Jack posing in front of the fountain.

Same fountain and wreath - different angle. It was the middle of Friday morning - it's practically empty.

Headed down the Hauptstrasse... what a huge Christmas tree - can't wait to see it all decorated.

Friday Night Bowling Fun Times! So much fun to be out with the men I love. Flower was at a friend's house and Marie will return from Salt Lake in just a few weeks. Is this Joe's version of bowling?

Joe and Jack headed up to the Schloss (castle) on Saturday. So many opportunities for great pictures. I like this one of Joe.

A terrific photo of the neighborhood where we live, the markets, the river, and our building.

Inside the castle ruins.

Jack on one of the gardens inside the castle ruins. Big space, eh?

I love this snapshot of these two.

The life of my people recorded in pictures is where it's at.

From Russia with Love

2009-11-13T07:42:00.001-08:00

John, Elder Murphy, & Me - Missionary Training Center

24 October 2007

I have never been able to visualize Jack's return from his two-year LDS mission to Russia Ekaterinburg. The beginning was so incredibly difficult, I simply couldn't see the end. Years and years I'd heard mothers of missionaries wax eloquent about the blessings of sending a son to the mission field. Then I was blindsided. For me, it was one of the damned hardest things I've ever done, albeit a most worthwhile undertaking.

Flower, Joe, John, Jack, Me, & Marie - 3 days before leaving for Utah

The day has come and he is home and I have been reminded of just how much he has been missed. Seeing him walk through immigration at the Frankfurt airport tore open a scabbed place in my heart that had covered the loss and pain of seperation. Those long buried feelings of despair came rushing back, but I was immediately consoled by having him in my arms.

Joe, Elder Murphy, & Flower - Frankfurt Airport, 12 Nov 2009

It has been different sending Marie off to college compared to sending Jack on a mission. I know Marie can come home at holidays and breaks, we can talk everyday, and I can go visit her when.ever.I.like. Of course, none of that is possible when sending a missionary out to serve the Lord full time. The sudden-ness of being cut-off from my son was so abrupt, that ... sigh.

Elder Murphy & Flower

Joe, John, & Jack - the men I love

Why do they go? Why do we support them? Is it worth the sacrifice? Who benefits?

I believe they go because it is their duty and they have been called by God. We support them because we love them and wish them to put their all into carrying the message. I must believe it is worth the effort in order to continue putting one foot in front of the next. Our family has been richly blessed by other sons who answered a call to serve.

Me, Elder Murphy, John - before Jack was released from fulltime work

12 November 2009

We have Jack back in our home for the next few weeks. School starts the first week of January and he'll be there to begin another season of his life and we'll continue to adjust and adapt to the changing needs of our family.

Marie will be home for a few weeks in December and for a brief period we will have all four of our children with us. Time to party like rock stars!

Family ... is where it's at.

Taco Nightpalooza

2009-11-09T21:43:00.000-08:00

Last Friday night we hosted the LDS Heidelberg Young Single Adult Taco Night. Originally it was scheduled for a month ago, but we were so sick - it has taken this long to really feel 100% again.

Since John and I were called to be the Young Single Adult Advisors and Institute Instructors, we have come to really love these college age single adults. Typically, the American students don't stay in Heidelberg very long since they might only be here for a semester of studying abroad or visiting their parents over here for a few weeks, etc. None of that matters, these guys are fun.

Of course one thing led to the next and the Americans invited their German friends over to Taco Night (which was totally cool with us and we're glad they're comfortable doing that). Initially I didn't think the German YSA would be interested, but never underestimate the allure of tacos, soda, a double feature, and an evening of free fun times. And because our younger teenagers still live with us, we agreed they could invite a couple high school friends.

By the time we were in full swing with the root beer, homemade cookies, and tacos - there were 25 guests kickin' it European style. When the second movie started, most of the games had been played (someone brought something called Bang! - it seemed to be a hit) and folks settled in for Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds in The Proposal. I'm not sure where all the chairs came from, but we were putting into use just about anything that could move.

At the end of the day, it was a great time for me. Lots of folks said they had fun too. We never ran out of food or soda, only three pieces of furniture were broken (two fully repaired, one still in evaluation - each incident was strictly accidental), and all guests arrived back home safely. Pretty good record as far as I'm concerned.

I do wish Jack and Marie could have been here ... but perhaps we can find time for a Christmas-themed event. I genuinely hope our new friends will visit us soon!

An evening partying with my people is definately where it's at.

Halloween 2009 - Heidelberg Style

2009-10-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. Each Fall I begin to hope that perhaps this year Halloween will pass us by without the last minute panic for a 'legit' costume or some near-crisis in generating 'a look.' This of course was not the year for such achievement and the troops did not fail to disappoint with their same-day need for a Halloween costume.

This year the ward had their trunk-or-treat event early which means we were technically saved from the Panic on the 31st. I know as a real little sprout (kindergarten, 1st grade) I had hand-sewn costumes, but once the 70s really got rolling, I was on my own for making a costume. Since then, I developed a love for the unusual costume that made me laugh - I'm not so much about the ghosts, witches, or princesses.

When we moved to Silver Spring, Maryland in July 2004, we landed in an amazing church ward. There were so many activities to attend and fun people to socialize among. Since we were still unpacking from our move, our Halloween costumes were a no-brainer and we went as Family Home Evening. It's still one of my favorite costume nights! And John was such a good sport about the whole thing too.

This year, I offered Joe and Flower a couple ideas and they did the rest. Just a few euros on a couple accessories and the hard work was done. I love that Joe went as Eminem (our favorite rap star) and Flower found her own niche as Ms. M - complete with white go-go boots. They looked fantastic among the ninjas and hippies in the young women/young men at the ward Fall Festival.

Fun Halloween times with my people is where it's at.

Off to Market

2009-10-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, I already know... I haven't blogged in recent weeks as much as I have until now. There's many things to have contributed to this ... sigh ... but mostly it's because I have been feeling a wee bit blue. Taking Marie off to college was absolutely necessary, but nonetheless sad for me. I am so pumped for all the great things she's doing (:bragging moment: her grades are thru the roof!).

At the same time, I started graduate school - WHAT?! - and have had to step up my game, academically speaking. So far so good, but I gotta tell ya the learning has been awesome and I feel very fortunate to be attending school at all.

In the meantime, our life here has rolled on as usual. We are regular patrons on Saturday mornings at the Marktplatz and make it a point to get out of the house and walking through our neighborhood. We enjoyed Reunification Day on 03 October - just by being in our community - everything throughout Germany was shut down except for restaurants and hotels. Anyway, this is a picture of today's booty. The celery is outta control!

I won a door prize and we are now the proud owners of this lovely hand crocheted market bag - don't hate. This snapshot was taken about 10ft outside the CityMarkt we go to when we need things from the grocery story. The fancy building in the background is the rathaus (City Hall). On Saturday mornings all the open-air restaurant tables are replaced with the fresh market - vendors sell vegetables, meat, fish, cheese, flowers, olives, bread, and wine.

Joe and Flower have a school break this month and we're planning a 3 or 4 day getaway - right now we're still taking votes, but we'll probably stay close to home... maybe Bern and Zurich?

Jack is due home 11 November. We're very excited about the prospect of him at home after two years of laboring in such a cold part of our Heavenly Father's vineyard. Of course, he'll be off to college in January, but it'll be good to have him home anyway. This snapshot was taken at the Siberia Zone Conference in June 2009. Jack is standing 2nd row, farthest right.

It's absolutely terrific to know that those feelings of being down will pass, a good life continues, and there is always always something new just about to take off. Living in the moment is where it's at.

Early Fall in Germany

2009-09-28T02:52:00.000-07:00

We have really enjoyed the slight turn in weather here in Heidelberg. It's chilly in the mornings and quite lovely in the afternoon. I'm convinced we are especially breezy since we live (literally) along the Neckar River - but I'm not complaining one bit.

This past week I headed to Paris for the day to meet up with some online friends from one of my favorite blogs.. FeministMormonHousewives.org. It was terrific to be in the company of wonderful women - each of us making our way in the world, but doing it with a sense of spirituality and purpose. I look forward to meeting with them again and getting to know them better. We gathered from Saudi Arabia, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

This week Jack turns 21! It doesn't seem possible, but that is surely the case. Stationed in Hawaii together, my dear friend Malinda had her first son just 3 days after Jack was born - the boys spent their first couple years together almost non-stop. Looking back, I can say without a doubt it was a blessing to have a great friend during such a trying time as brand-new motherhood.

John and I can't believe we've gotten this old... I've been a mother nearly half my life. But ya know, that's ok. I always wanted to be a mom and that hasn't changed. It's a privelage to carry'm, squeeze'm out, then watch'm grow... ok, maybe the squeezing out isn't so great, but you get the picture. I'd do it all over again.

Surrounding myself with great women, wonderful friends, and a terrific husband is where it's at.

The Producemeister

2009-09-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

It would seem like a slow week if I'm talking about the Producemeister, a cantalope, and the hunt for some celery. But, it feels like a normal week to me.

After 5 weeks, the producemeister came back from holiday. That means we again have fresh produce right outside our front door - it's just so convenient. Well, as long as I pay attention to the clock it's convenient - he's open Monday thru Friday 11-1 and in the evenings 4-7, except on Wednesdays when the shop is closed. Not sure when he opens or closes on Saturdays, but get there sooner rather than later.

This week he had cantalope but not celery. They are hardly interchangable when cooking, but we hadn't seen a cantalope in a while. Went up to the citymarkt to get some celery and the small market is closed until September 23rd. Don't know why, just is.

Taking hunting and gathering to a literal sense is where it's at.

Beautiful September

2009-09-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

This week we've managed to stay busy and have some very lovely experiences. While the week started off with a major federal holiday (Labor Day), it didn't impact the kids for school or anything about town. John did have the day off and it was great having him at home.

We enjoyed a dinner out, dining alfresco at a restaurant adjacent to the Marktplatz - the central plaza of old Heidelberg. Dinner was very affordable and delicious. John and I enjoyed apfel struedel with cream and vanilla ice cream. Soooo delicious. We're definately going there with my dad when he returns for a visit. Any other takers?

This week included the "Names and Faces" evening at Heidelberg International School. It was a terriffic event with parents, faculty, and staff. We had an opportunity to quickly visit with Joe's personal project teacher ... and here is Joe progressing quite well through sewing. Outstanding job!

After two months of waiting, John received his Garmin-Slipstream riding kit. He looked terrific wearing argyle as he headed out on his Saturday morning ride of a short 30 miles. He's such a hottie!

Since Joe and Flower and a friend of their's from school were providing volunteer service hours at the Boy Scout blood drive, I somehow got roped into donating blood. I haven't done that since 1986! And I'm not sure I'm in a hurry to donate again. I mean the cookies and juice are sweet, but ....

Time with my family day in and day out is completely where it's at.

All Work & No Play ...

2009-09-07T04:37:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned lately that we feel so stinkin' lucky to live in Heidelberg? There are mornings I wake up and just don't believe we have had such a tremendous opportunity. I also know that we'll return back to the life in the states with wide roads and fountain sodas. In the mean time I'm going to bloom where we're planted and invite you to come visit our garden.

One part of our social life that is sorely missed has been John's Saturday morning cycling group based out of Granada Cyclery in St. Peters, Missouri. It hasn't been as easy to put together or join a bike group here, yet .... so John went ahead and made his own cycling unit. They do have tons of fun on the long (long for the kids) rides on Saturday mornings - they log just over 20 miles before breakfast. After the kids make it home, we send John back out for another 30 miles or so of some good hilly fun.

As part of Joe's school curriculum this year, he's required to work on a personal project. It has all kinds of requirements, but the subject can be anything the student chooses. Joe has decided to combine algebra, geometry, design, machine work, and service to wounded soldiers as they travel from down range to Ramstein then onto the States. Joe has opted to make five 3ft by 5ft quilts. He should be able to satisfy the academic requirements as well as his Eagle Scout project - especially if he can coerce his troop into tying a few blankets.

Blankets of Hope, sponsored by Soldiers' Angels accepts donations of this specific type/size quilt as that is best to cover a wounded soldier on the medevac flight - the plane's temperature is kept very low in order to care for the burn victims and those wounded troops still in a coma. Anyway, Joe got a really good start and the progress is pretty amazing. The hard part? Keeping my hands off the project - I just want to pick it up and sew!

This last Friday night we headed back to the bowling alley for some fun times. It was good to just relax, enjoy a cheese pizza, and laugh at each other's bowling style *cough cough*. I'm hoping the weather will hold and we can maybe get a picnic dinner in for Family Home Evening and some people watching down at the river.

Relaxing time with my people is where it's at.

Back Home in Heidelberg

2009-09-03T11:40:00.001-07:00

I've been back home in Heidelberg just over a week now and I can finally say that I feel as though my body has synchronized itself with the locale. Those first few days are always a bit iffy for me - especially on the USA to Germany route.

I was never so glad to see my people at the Frankfurt Flughafen (airport)! I has missed them terribly and couldn't recall a time where I had left John and the children at home while I was away for this length of time. As a card carrying feminist I can still say - it's just different when my husband leaves for business opposed to when I leave for a conference, daughter delivery to college, etc.

So, 12 hours after landing we all attended Joe's Court of Honor with his scout troop - tons of badges as this was the post-scout camp awards.

Joe is standing furthest on the right.

And 24 hours after landing I was schmoozing it up with other parents at the a H.I.S. volunteer meeting - right after drop off for the first day of school. I was asked to be the Grade 8 CVC (class volunteer coordinator - think: home room mom).

First Day of School - August 2009

Flower - Grade 8

Joe - Grade 10

As a cherry on the top of my schedule, I started graduate school this past weekend through an outreach program administered by University of Maryland University College and certified through Bowie State University. Classes are conducted all day Saturday and Sunday every other weekend, in English, and on a post in Heidelberg (though this class is meeting just two weekends and completing the remaining work on line). I'm grateful the Counseling Psychology program was already in place and I'm crazy grateful for my amazing husband (talk about hunkalicious).

Since it is the Fall, we're starting to plan some weekend getaways as a well as the October break the kids have from school. There is much debate, research, and the development of an argument to convince each other to see one venue over another. I love teenagers and their enthusiasm. In the meantime, we are still very much in love with our post-dinner bike rides about town.

Joe, Flower, & John - Marktplatz, Heidelberg

As far as I'm concerned, being in the lives of my people is completely where it's at.

St. Charles, Missouri

2009-08-31T00:52:00.000-07:00

After leaving Marie in Utah, I headed to St. Louis for a couple days - and this was a good thing. First, saying goodbye to Marie at the airport was just plain hard. I cried like a baby (less the tantrum), but I was so sad to leave her there - I think it's bittersweet for both of us. It's exciting to be at college with all the new and wonderful opportunities for learning, making friends, and developing independence. At the same time, it was difficult for me to give her a hug and a sugar and be on my way.

While in St. Charles, my dad took me to IHop for pancakes; we had a terrific visit even though he has only been home a few weeks after visiting us in Heidelberg. It was great to see him.

I was able to spend a few hours with my work colleagues - what a treat it was to see them again and catch up on stuff. Fortunately, we've stayed connected through email groups and facebook, but it's just not the same as sitting down to the Chinese Buffet on McKelvey Rd. We also talked about their planned visit to Germany next summer - I can't wait to see them again.

Naturally, I had to stop in to visit my dear friend Kristin - one of the few people in the world who is bossy with me and gets away with it! She's smart about so many things - my job is to just pay attention whenever she's talking.

What would a trip to the states be without a stop at the fabric store? Check that off the list.

Please know, I stopped at the QuikTrip for a legit Diet Coke fountain drink at every opportunity (as least twice a day and even on Sunday).

Of course, seeing my bff Charlotte was the primary reason for the added to stop on the way home to Heidelberg; it meant the world to me. She is more than a friend. She's a confidante, advocate, sounding board, and cheerleader. She's always been an example to me of a woman who gives weight and perspective to many sides of a situation before making a decision. She is a wife and mother who has traveled further down the same path I am on - I can use her experience and she gives me access to her successes as well as her mistakes. She hates it when I say this, but Charlotte is one of my heroes.

Spending time with people that matter in your life is where it's at.

Snowbird!

2009-08-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

After a week filled with so many decisions for Marie regarding school and the stress involved with getting everything in order, we were grateful to have a few hours of playtime. And holy cow did we have some fun!!
We visited Snowbird in Little Canyon Creek, Utah. Some of you might be familiar with its Alta Ski Resort, but the summer activities couldn't be beat. We were so lucky to have such a terrific group of friends enjoying fun things to do. Here's a shout out to Koby & Emily and Drew & Celeste for recognizing we all needed a break.

This shot of the Alpine Slide (looks like a mini-luge) was taken from the ski lift on the way up to the slide and Zip Line (during the winter season this area is the bunny slope).

I'm on the left and Marie is on the right as we initiated our run on the Zip Line. Good times!

We took the tram to the top - all the way up to 11,000 feet (during the winter season this area is for the adrenaline imbalanced with a total death wish).

At the end of our visit to Snowbird and ready to head home.

Enjoying some down time with friends is absolutely where it's at.

College ... Already?

2009-08-26T05:35:00.000-07:00

Last week I took Marie to college. It doesn't seem possible, but that is surely the case. We have had nearly every day of the past eight months together ... it's been such a special time for us. However, I knew this day would come.

We had a truly wonderful week in Utah visiting long-time family friends and extended family (you could say we're practically family) - Drew and Celeste Pearson. They have an adorable almost two-year-old son Ty and a little brother on the way.

Ty, Celeste, & Drew Pearson

It was a busy week taking care of paperwork at school, shopping for American booty to bring back to Heidelberg, enrolling at Institute, and finding the student ward. After all was said and done, Marie was just about set for school.

Watching my daughter embark on a new season of her life is where it's at.

"Morning in Barcelona"

2009-08-11T22:49:00.000-07:00

I finally completed Morning in Barcelona. Well, it's mostly done. I haven't decided on what type of border to sew all the way around it yet, but principle piecing is finished.

Of all the spectacular European cities we've visited since moving to Germany, Barcelona is absolutely one of our favorites. The city is full of energy, beautiful artwork, and a wonderful mix of cultures including Catalonia and Spain. The Mediterranean is gorgeous and has a special influence on this part of Spain. As a family, we managed to relax and see many points of interest.

I've never visited a place that inspired me to create something that could reflect my impression of our family's time there. However, almost immediately I knew I had to 'quilt' Barcelona. The colors and shapes of the rooftops and neighborhoods can easily and naturally be transposed to a textile medium.

What colors this fine flamingo sports.

Fresh Market - looks like a quilt already

The Mediterranean Sea's gorgous green and blue colors.

This is a postcard of Barcelona - you can see the inspiration for neighborhood shape and scale.

Inasmuch as I've never attempted something like this... I took an artistic license with scale, layout, and composition. This isn't a map of Barcelona, but more of an experiential representation of being in the moment.

By way of artistic inclusion ... there is a fruit market, train station, zoo, mosiac sculptures, aquarium, beach and Mediterranean, metro stops, trees, round-about with fountain, the Picasso Museum (featuring the work of his 'Blue Period'), neighborhoods, Olympic Park, and the Sagrada Familia.

I've place a pair of my shoes (size 6.5) near the upper right hand corner. Still deciding what type of border to add. Then of course, the quilting and binding. It embarks on its North American tour next week ... stops in Salt Lake City and St. Louis.

Enjoying the support of my husband and children while creating this work is where it's at.

Summer Winding Down

2009-08-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

As we approach the end of summer, in a cultural sense, I believe it's been a great season. It's my personal truth.

I'm trying to decide when did "ordinary" weeks become really terrific weeks when nothing outward has changed? I think I've changed. I don't want to get caught taking my people for granted or becoming complacent about the love that surrounds me.

Flower - in charge of being cute and keeping the score

Is there anything worse than rented bowling shoes? Where's Mr. Monk when you need him?

Joe started the weekend with a trifecta of sporting... Friday night bowling, Saturday morning ride, and Saturday afternoon 9 holes of golf. I can't keep up!

I just love these guys so stinkin' much ... btw, I do believe Brother Murphy could soon be a yoga master with that form!

In front of our apt building just before leaving on a 30mile ride

The apple doesn't fall far, does it?

So we've been staying busy with each other .... bowling, cycling, laundry, reading, washing dishes etc. But, we say funny stuff like: "Is Flower back from Girls Camp in Switzerland?" or "When the kids are off from school in October should we go to Krakow or Prague?"

*contemplative sigh*

I think it's been prompted by Marie's departure for college. It's difficult for me to stand on the precipice of this dynamic change in our relationship - though the fiscal component is still in solid contact (much to her father's chagrin). Their transition from home to college and missions and whatever else happens next was always so .... theoretical. But, it is surely come to pass and I'm left counting noses to see who's still here.

Anyway, it's different territory from when Jack left on his mission and I'm adjusting.

Being there as my people transition to a new season of life is where it's at.

Good Stuff

2009-08-05T04:23:00.000-07:00

Finding joy in the simple things of life had previously been challenging for me. The past decade or so has given me the opportunity to appreciate the sweet and simple gifts of time spent together - no matter what we're doing.

In choosing which pictures to post, I realized we've been quite busy the past few days. Last Friday, John and I took the girls to dinner then bowling. We had a fantastic time; tons of fun! Joe was at scout camp and of course, Jack is still in Russia.

He's got bowling style.

Flower and Marie

On Saturday, we visited a family who has a small garden/horse barn (John works with the husband). It was the first time I'd met them but had heard many wonderful things. We had such a grand time with this lovely family ... had we arrived a little earlier, the girls would've been able to shovel some of the horse poo. Oh well, next time!

I love these people: Marie, John, Flower

John, a horse, Marie

Flower and me - practically twins going to church.

Marie had a neat opportunity to attend the Young Single Adult Conference in Berlin. The English speaking ward and the German speaking ward often combines activities, etc. Here is a picture of the group before boarding the bus... they stopped in Darmstadt and Frankfurt before driving into Berlin.

These are the bikes that are too nice to leave in the bike parking room on the first floor of the building. Of course, it appears as though I'll have to cordon off part of the living room at this point. I don't mind - Joe and Flower now join their dad on some of his rides so everything is getting ridden at some point.

I'm still working on Morning in Barcelona, but I am getting close to the finish line. I've really taken to heart one of my favorites... "anything worth doing is worth overdoing." At the same time, I love that my husband regularly brings me fresh flowers from the market on Saturdays... perhaps the color and fragrance helps move the work along.

In the post box today was an order I had placed for a sweatshirt with the logo of one of my favorite websites: FeministMormonHousewives.org. Within minutes of opening the package, Joe was rockin' the hoodie. I think he looks good in pink.

Being anywhere with my people is where it's at.

Gardenia

2009-07-31T00:37:00.000-07:00

My gardenia bloomed this morning and ooooh does she offer the sweetest fragrance I know. It is one of my most favorite scents of all time.

Last April I bought a 4.99€ gardenia from IKEA and have been encouraging this little beauty to grow and bloom. And she did.

When we lived in Hawaii from 1988-1992 on Hickam Air Force Base, there was a huge gardenia plant growing outside my neighbor's kitchen window. Since we lived in a duplex, it was as if the shrub was outside my window as well. It regularly produced amazingly beautiful and large flowers. I can remember sitting with a cup of coffee in our little kitchen with the glass levered windows cranked open, the light gardenia perfume on the trade winds blowing through, and Jack sitting in his high chair while pushing Cheerios around his tray. I wonder what I might say to that young wife and mother if I could go back to her now.

Nonetheless, witnessing this gardenia's valiant effort to bloom is where it's at.

Shoe Shopping

2009-07-28T23:24:00.000-07:00

I am not at all unique - I love love love shoe shopping. That's not to say everyone digs it; I just know I could shop for shoes and handbags as a regular part of my daily diet.

Yesterday, the girls and I went out to get some shopping done. Both are getting ready for school while Joe is at Boy Scout Camp this week. Each of them found a pair of shoes for school, a lovely cardigan sweater for early fall, and a dress. Me? I found a tablecloth. Really?!

Admittedly, I tried on MANY different shoes, but I didn't fall in love with any of them. Oh sure, some of them I liked an awful lot, but I want to be smarter with our budget and am waiting to really fall in love with the perfect everyday pair. To be fair - I did fall in love with a pair of butter-soft Max & Co flats - but the fit was a bit off.

No way I could say the day was a waste - the girls and I had fun together, took our time, and enjoyed each others company; tons of sparkle in that!

Having the freedom to shop for shoes with the women I love is where it's at.

Finally ... A Finished Project!

2009-07-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

You know that feeling of finally getting a project finished? For me, it doesn't seem to happen often enough, but when it does ... woohoo!! With my tendency to work on several things at the same time, it's all the more sweet and satisfying to see something completed.

My latest accomplishment was a quilt I designed and quickly put together. I haven't done anything like this one... it's more like an "I Spy" piece. I have worked with this tumbler pattern before, but never in such a detailed structure as this one.

Barely a working idea, but have to start somewhere - notice my ipod in the center?

Deciding to not have any two fabrics the same (really?), meant I needed to have a boatload of unique materials. I thoroughly exhausted my scrap baskets and still needed to purchase some additional fabrics.

"More fabrics ... I need more fabrics!"

The drying rack keeps the rows in order and allows me to move the project off to the side.

As much murmuring as I might do, I truly love the design work and looking for the most contrast between any two pieces. If it were possible, I'd leave the cutting to someone else, but it's a necessary evil of this hobby.

I am very happy that the borders look so fun with the continued tumbler pattern - I think it adds movement to the overall design.

All done - now time to send it to the quilt shop.

Ta-dah.

Anyway, I know where the flaws are and won't be sharing those details with any of you! Bad me.

Designing with textiles as a road to inner-peace is totally where it's at.

Mondays in Paris

2009-07-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

This past Monday the kids and I took my dad to Paris, France for the day. It's so danged easy and fast to get there from Heidelberg. We take the regional S-Bahn to Mannheim and then the ICE straight into Paris - Gare de L'est station.

We had a terrific trip into town and before we arrived Marie had put together an awesome game plan. Top priorities were taken care of first .... shopping! After much success, we took the metro to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris.

Due to some infrastructure upgrades, we took a bus to the nearest working RER stop - which took us to La Tour Eiffe l. Talk about spectacular! We strolled down the wide promenade along the River Seine as our approach to such an iconic global attraction. The tower is quite magnificent and well worth the effort. Quite frankly, I couldn't believe we had my dad there with us - it was such a treat to see him there with some of his grandchildren.

From there, we took the metro to the Arc de Triomphe. It is such a site with so much traffic circling the round-about and the 12 different avenues that feed into it. Super cool.

By that time we were ready for some yummy eats. The best pizza we've had since arriving in Germany has been the pizza served at Antonio's in Paris just 20 meters from the Wagram metro stop. We'd been salivating all day just thinking about it. Unfortunately, it was closed at 3pm on Monday. Nuts! We "made do" with a super yummy bacon cheeseburger and fries at a bistro just down the block. One of my dad's favorite moments, "Now I've eaten french fries in France."

Outside the Wagram Metro stop in front of an art deco entrance. There are only 83 of 300 entrances that has it's original artwork (the original art is now considered national treasures).

It was then time to head back to the train station to return home to Heidelberg. It was a quick day, but well worth the trip. I'm so glad the kids could get there again before school started and my dad could join us.

Paris with family is definately where it's at.

News and Notes

2009-07-21T05:53:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was a terrific day for John and Joe - they had such a successful time at Stage 13 of Le Tour de France. See John's blog here for all the details. Soooo much fun. Like I've stated before, shame on us if we don't take advantage of all that is around us while we're here in Europe for this season of our lives.

Joe hanging out near the Garmin-Slipstream camp waiting for the banner to get signed by all nine members of the riding team.

On Saturday we went to the Frankfurt Germany Temple with the youth group. We had a lovely time there and it was terrific to be inside the temple with the almost all our family (Jack won't return from Russia until November).

And since we were in Frankfurt, we just had to stop at the hauptbahnhof (central train station) and get a plate of our favorite noodles. Good eats for sure.

Sunday I put a pork roast in the slow cooker; when it was ready we served it with fried potatoes and green beans for Sunday dinner. It's not glamorous, but it's what we're doing here.

Everyday life with my people is where it's at.

Is It Possible??

2009-07-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that my husband LOVES his bicycles ... he finds great peace in riding and hasn't shied away from the long rides either. Riding has had a wonderful effect on improving John's overall health. To top things off - he entered and completed a tri-athlon sprint. I wholeheartedly support his efforts and I'm proud of him (yes, I understand pride is a sin - but hey! I am a sinner).

The history of John's bikes ....

Good

Better

Best

Defies description - for real.

John took on the 2008 R.A.I.N, Ride Across Indiana - 165 miles one way in one day. The kids and I had an absolutely fun fun day providing support at the checkpoints all across the state. As a reward, the girls and I treated ourselves to pedicures the next day.

Before the start.

Lunch break.

Approaching the finish line!

And, he participated in the 2007 and 2008 MS150 (opting for a century ride each day instead of two 75mile stages). All that being said, John loves cycling and much of the geekiness associated with riding (though I did ask that we talk about shaved legs - his, not mine - but we haven't had that discussion just yet).

On our way to a cycling event.

MS150, 2008 - Columbia, MO

Anyway ... Moving to Germany has afforded us too many wonderful opportunities to count. I truly feel so damn lucky. Anyway, we're at one of those points this week. John and Joe are driving to France tomorrow to watch Stage 13 of the Tour de France! Impossible! Holy cow!

For years we've talked about sending him over to France to watch a couple stages. Then, we talked about us visiting France together. Always the costs seemed prohibitive.... until now. Tomorrow the cost will be a tank of diesel.

To celebrate, one of the kids suggested I "throw together a banner" of John's favorite team: Garmin-Slipstream so they'd have something to waive. Of course, one of'm will waive Old Glory and both will be armed with a cowbell. I keep suggesting some body paint, but so far that idea doesn't seem to have legs.

Go Team Argyle!

Because I didn't have anything else to do *eye roll* I fashioned a lt blue, dk blue, and orange argyle banner to represent the team of choice. I did the best I could with the scraps on hand - not so bad with only 6 hours notice *repeat eye roll*.

I hope they have a great day together. I hope they get to see some riders and some of the behind-the-scenes action. I hope it's as exciting to be there as it is to watch on television.

Witnessing a dream come true is absolutely where it's at.

Fun With My Daughters

2009-07-11T22:59:00.001-07:00

While the fellas were on their car trip through Bavaria, the girls and I tended to our Saturday morning rituals ... going to the fresh market and some down time. This past Saturday was a bit different - a few times during the summer German artisans make their designs available for sale at the Kornplatz and Karlplatz (beautiful plazas surrounding the primary Marktplatz). We are not talking about handicrafts. These folks are pretty amazing artists.

Too many to choose from, we each decided on one thing to bring home.

The handmade natural soaps were very interesting to me. I couldn't decide on any one scent, so opted for smaller samples of five different scents. Of course, I can't read any of the accompanying literature about these soaps ... it's all in German.

Marie found a very interesting artist whose medium is paper. She scored a pretty sweet portfolio. I'm sure that's on her school supply list for fall.

I couldn't decide on the recycled metal sculptist or the woman with ceramics. As the rusted iron is more of a statement piece, I wanted to have my life partner with me (he was out of town), so I went by way of art where form meets function. Flower helped me find this pitcher-no-wait-vase ... love it!

Spending wonderful days with the women of my life is where it's completely at.

Mmmm.... kay

2009-07-11T07:34:00.000-07:00

Today is my dad's birthday and I sent him to Dachau. What was I thinking??

Actually it started with the trip last weekend in Schwarzwald, John's work schedule, and our sweet new ride. My dad didn't have a long list of things he wanted to see or places he wanted to go while here (he wanted to spend time with his grandchildren), but he did want to see Germany and thought he'd like to visit a WWII concentration camp (from the folks we've talked to - it's one of those things you must do once).

Long story short, John, Joe, and my dad made today a tour of the countryside. They stopped at Neuschwanstein Castle (it's the inspiration for Disney's Cinderella's Castle). Good times for them, though I'm not sure they were expecting such a long hike up a 12% graded hill - but, they did it.

After that it was over to Dachau (just a few minutes from Munchen/Munich). John texted me when they arrived. Soon after, he texted again with - "the 30 minute movie was oppressing, Joe said something like, 'Where are the postcards?'". I can't imagine what the birthday grandpa was doing. After all was said and done, my husband called to say they were thoroughly depressed and headed home. Not sure how to salvage this.

Designing a depressing birthday is not where it's at.

Happy Birthday America

2009-07-04T13:31:00.000-07:00

We've had such a busy week leading up to the 4th! This is the first week Joe and Flower have been off from school - it's great having them home!! Plus, you add a holiday weekend... and things can get pretty crunked up.

We thought about going to Munchen this weekend, but have delayed it a week (I think). So, John and I took my dad for a drive down to the Schwarzwald (The Black Forest). We have visited this mountain range before, but on Friday's trip we drove through an area we hadn't visited before. Then again, the Schwarzwald is 4600 sq miles - I don't think we'll ever see all of it.

We came upon this riding group - must have had legs of iron to move along the mountains.

To celebrate the Fourth of July - John, Joe, and grandpa went on a 30 mile bike ride. How much fun is that? They took some good pics.

Hay bales announcing a raspberry and strawberry celebration (north of Heidelberg about 10km)

Grandpa and Joe - by Lake Something (shrug)

To wrap up the day, we went to one of the Army bases near Mannheim for some local entertainment and some really bad carny food. The downside is that deep-fried-onion-rings smell in the air. The upside is being there with my family.

Marie, Flower, Joe, Grandpa, & John in the back row. Parking our bikes at the end of the Hauptstrasse/Bismarkplatz

I think Marie is so pretty.

Flower and Grandpa - don't they look like they're having a good time?

At the end of the day, we took the #5 strassebahn back to the Bismarkplatz and rode our bikes home ... no traffic jams for us!

American holidays as an ex-pat with my family is where it's at.

Flower

2009-06-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

This snapshot of Flower was taken while she and her schoolmates from Heidelberg International School were out providing community service; they were picking up rubbish along a bike trail. Clearly, she found this little gem and put it to good use - I think it's a fun shot and composed just right (wish I had the information to credit the photographer properly).

While I find it oddly unsettling, I'm drawn to the image.

Performance art as a recycling mechanism is where it's at.

End of School Year!

2009-06-30T05:26:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we're at the end of another school year. Joe and Flower are home for the summer and I'm super excited to have them! I know that they'd have been out of school if we were back in the states, but the international school they attend schedules a week-long break about every six weeks (go visit Europe!) ... which means we're in school until the end of June.

Of course, we have taken advantage of those extended breaks and enjoyed traveling and spending time together. That doesn't give us a free pass on taking care of the day-to-day chores of life nor can we abdocate our responsibilities. I guess, it's all about finding balance and being ok with your life.

Flower, Marie, & Joe - on our way to church

Today was the end-of-the-school-year picnic - everyone invited. We took my dad, enjoyed some hotdogs/hamburgers, and got to listen to the student garage band (it's an after-school activity for anyone who wants to join). Fun times!

School picnic celebrating another full year - glad Grandpa could join us

Marking the seasons of life with kids you love is where it's at.

June in Heidelberg

2009-06-25T23:19:00.000-07:00

It's been another great week in Heidelberg. Heaven help me if I get complacent about where we live or my family (I'm crazy about'm!). At the same time, I feel as though I am getting used to doing things differently.

For example, I think I'm fully integrating the producemeister's schedule into my meal prep. He's only open from 11-1 and 4-7 during the week, but is not open on Wednesday afternoons. Which means, remember to get an apple and a pear before he closes on Wednesday in order to have it available for Thursday morning's lunch sack. Ok, that might have been a bad example, but I hope you get the picture.

My dad arrived this week for an extended visit and we are so excited to have him here. On his first day, we went for a brief walkabout and had to stop for an eis (ice cream/sherbert). Here's a snap of him, Marie, Flower, and Joe. Way fun.

We went for a bit of shopping on the Hauptstrasse, this is my dad and Marie walking just ahead of John and me. Doesn't my dad look cute in his new hat?

One of our favorite Young Single Adults is moving with his family back to the States - we snapped this photograph just after Institute. Jeff has all of his missionary paperwork completed and will be submitting it as soon as he's back home in Iowa. Of course, we're dragging my dad along in all that we do - expect to see him frequently on the blog while he's here.

Joe is finishing up the Golf Merit Badge with his troop - all 18 rounds. Joe is third from the left in ball cap and shades. My dad, designated ball chaser, is standing next to Joe and looking ready to take on the day.

Everyday life with my family is where it's at.

Fun Times

2009-06-22T00:52:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday evening was the Heidelberg International School Summer Performance Night. Sounds like a mouthful, but essential it was an end-of-school-year evening to see what the students have been doing the past few months.

I have come to appreciate some of the performances as the distance from Thursday night increases. A young grade presented a piece by simulating a pond. It may sound a bit abstract, but with a narrator, a ball of yarn, and passing it back and forth - the idea of habitat and the web of connectivity can be made. All I know is - there were plenty of video cameras capturing the moment.

One of our favorites was the classroom of "clowns." They were brave and funny. An alltime classic:

Clown 1: Do you have holes in your underwear?

Clown 2: No! How rude of you to ask.

Clown 1: Well then, how do you put them on?

ba-dup-bum!

Flower was in the improv group of grade 7. Who knew she had that in her? The class did well and we were very impressed with the effort.

Flower is center stage (long brown sleeves)

Joe perfomed in the grade 9 garage band - he was on bass guitar. His teacher said he took to it "like a duck to water." *sigh*

Anyway, typically after this type of event, we'd take ourselves to the Dairy Queen. Of course that isn't possible here, so we walked up to a nearby eis haus and then continued meandering about town for a few minutes. I took the following pictures to show you the beauty of where we live and perhaps entice a couple of you to come visit us.

Marie, John, Joe, Flower

John, Marie, Flower, Joe

In this photograph, taken on the alte brucke (old bridge), you can see our building (over John's right shoulder - white building, red roof, attic windows) and you can also see the castle in the upper right hand corner. You can't see the Neckar River - the trees just on the left side of the frame are on the river bank.

Taking time for ice cream and snapshots with my family is where it's at.

Schnitzel Wednesday, Protests, & Fat Quarters

2009-06-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays are generally pretty calm around here, but yesterday proved to be interesting.

Near John's office is a small canteen that offers a limited daily menu, but once a week it's Schnitzel Wednesday! Woo hoo. Oh, mercy it's so yummy. His office is only about 18km from home, but an hour by streetcar or 20 minutes by BMW. Yesterday, Marie and I took the streetcar out to his office, enjoyed a wonderful lunch together, stopped at the bookstore on base, and made our way home afterwards. Thing is - yesterday, that roundtrip took 4.5 hours.

We opted to ride our bikes from home to Bismarkplatz (1.1km) away and the nearest stop for the streetcar out to Mannheim. However, we literally landed ourselves in the middle of a massive student protest as we attempted to ride through Universitätsplatz. I love an awesome student rally complete with makeshift drums, bullhorns, whistles, cowbells, chanting, a couple news crews, banners, plackards, handbills, and dressed up clowns (literally, complete w/red noses) directing the bus and bike traffic. The Polizei were milling about the fringes, but otherwise seemed to be in a 'watch and wait' posture. It took us 10 minutes to navigate maybe 80 yards - good times in Heidelberg!

Later in the day, Marie went on line to figure out what the students were striking against. It was a perrineal favorite - tuition. The twist is ... German university students don't pay tuition (it's covered with sky-high taxes). The government wants to charge 500€ per semester. From our perspective, if all of college cost approx $700 - it would be time to party not time to protest. A favorite slogan we learned - "Money for education, not banks!"

But hey, I'm not going to be the one to rain on that parade .... Power to the People.

Finally on the way back home, I had to stop at the fabric store in town. After finding the fabric corner in a base hobby shop, I've been shopping only there - the price is about half of the price of cotton in town and it's good quality stuff.

As I posted a couple days ago, this outta-control representation of Barcelona has taken over the dining room table, 4 chairs, and part of the laundry room. Anyway, I couldn't wait for Fat-Quarter Friday at the hobby shop (a fat quarter is approx 1/4 of a yard, but more of a square shape, and FQF at the hobby shop is... buy 4, get 1 free). I needed more terra cotta! I bought retail, not on sale!

Anyway, all things turned out. Flower made the spaghetti sauce for dinner, Marie got the 100% whole wheat noodles done, and Joe weighed in at clean-up time.

Student protests, quilting, or dinner clean up with the people is where it's at.

Morning in Barcelona

2009-06-16T11:40:00.000-07:00

I've often said that anything worth doing is worth overdoing, but I may have bitten off more than I can reasonably accomplish. Perhaps if I stopped to really think things through before running off and committing to it, I wouldn't be in such a pickle.

It all started when we visited Barcelona. The city was sooo beautiful - full of energy, color, shape, art, and life! This was the first place that I've visited to have this type of impact on me; this was the first time I would say "I am must quilt this."

A full two weeks was required for designing a quilt that captured what I had to record. Even now, I still tweak some things as they come to me (adding four metro stops throughout the design - each stop measuring 1" x 1"). Generally - it's a 100" x 100" quilt comprised of 2.5" finished squares - which amounts to roughly 1600 little squares. And, because I was outside my mind, I decided the trees about town would look more like trees if they were tiny pinwheels (8 separate pieces of fabric in a 3" square) instead of a lovely piece of green fabric.

Here's the thing - I love working on this piece (and sometimes it's frustrating working on this piece). It'll take several months, too much money, and we'll have a near constant debris field of fabric trimmings and dust. At the same time, I can't disregard how inspired I feel after having visited Spain.... waking up each morning looking out over the Med, my husband with me, kids running around, ... sigh.

As things progress, I'll try to stay current with updates of its progress.

Being free to express oneself through design and textiles is where it's at.

München!

2009-06-15T11:10:00.000-07:00

I feel like it's been forever since I last blogged, but it's just been about two week or so. I haven't been sitting around doing nothing - that's for sure. And, thanks to those good friends who reminded to get my blogging self in gear!

Let me share about a quick day trip the girls and I took to München/Munich, Germany. It was fantastic! The boys couldn't go since Joe had an important scouting event on Saturday and John stayed behind to make sure he made it there and back safely - shout out for dads!

We headed over on the train - took just under three hours and was a real smooth travel event. After arriving, we took the metro to our a stop near our hotel - when we climbed up to street level we arrived in the middle of the original Town Square. It was beautiful! The old city hall was just something else. It felt very much like Heidelberg except much bigger.

Marie & Flower - Munich Alstadt

There was also a small quartet (of a type) playing lovely Chopin (after that number they switched to Elvis) - in this small group were some strings, accordian, beat box... they really had a good vibe. The sound was good and nothing else matters.

After much drama, we wound up at a perfectly nice hotel, lots of room, and breakfast the next morning. We had planned on a visit to the zoo, Olympic park, and some casual shopping. It's a good thing we had Plan B.

First, the Tierpark Hellabrun was outstanding. It's one of the first geo-zoo which focuses on an environment and the species that live there instead of each animal inside a specific enclosure. Oo-la-la the animals are co-habitating.

Rhinos, Flower, & Marie

Can you believe these colors??

Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate and a thunderous downpour started about the time we had planned to transition from the zoo to Olympic Park. We opted out of that all-outdoor event and instead headed to the station to take an earlier train back to Heidelberg. Fortunately, there was some shopping to be done at the hauptbahnhof (central train station) and we each came back home with new shoes. Whew!

I can't wait to go back and spend a few days there -- with the fellas this time.

A day trip with my beautiful daughters is where it's at.

The Great Equalizer

2009-06-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

I've loved traveling the past fews months and haven't forgotten how fortunate we are to be in Germany - all together (well, except for Jack who has literally been transferred to Siberia - he reports that it's still quite cold "in the middle of nowhere"). Anyway, ...

We have been to some truly remarkable locations, some quite famous and others less so - but all worth the trip. The train through the Alps - mercy - took my breath away. Even now when I remember it in my mind, I recall the beauty and grandeur of it all. People plan and dream for years to visit the places we've seen over the past few months: Paris, Barcelona, Milan, Zurich, and this weekend we'll be in Munich.

Here's the thing... in every place we've traveled I've been reminded that we're all pretty much the same. Without exception, I see evidence of families working hard and doing the best they can to take care of life on life's term. It is my observation that laundry drying on the balcony is the great equalizer.

I don't know why I'm fascinated with laundry and the absolutely creative and ingenious systems we've developed to wash and dry our clothes, linens, etc. I remember being pregnant with our youngest and living in Florida. The electric dryer was broken; we had no money to fix it, but the Air Force housing office gave us two free umbrella-type clotheslines. I loved those things. Perhaps it reminded me of those summer afternoons helping my grandmother hang laundry out on her line. We'd talk, I hand up clothespins, and so much was simple.

This is one of the views outside my living room window in Heidelberg, Germany.

Took this shot as we left Milan, Italy.

Below, this snapshot was taken just outside the Museu Picasso in Barcelona. I was struck by two things at the same time: 1. How could anyone hang their undies outside the museum?! 2. Ohmygosh - how ingenious to hang a sheet of plastic over the drying clothes... in case of rain.

These photographs seem to capture some of the dissonance - the impressive old-world architecture of a city that was established 700 years ago ... and the sheets out on the line.

Saw this handy expanding version of line drying in Barcelona, Spain. I'd love one of these!

Same style - just empty.

As we traveled into Barcelona, I noticed that many clotheslines strung across the patio were typically connected on one end to the satellite dish. When given a choice between an automatic dryer or television with hundreds of channels ...

I learn so much traveling with my people and discovering small ways in which we're more alike than different is where it's at.

Milano, Italy

2009-05-26T03:24:00.000-07:00

After Spain, we took an overnight train to Milano, Italy. It's so easy to travel by train - especially when it's direct! We arrived just before noon, the weather was terrific, and we were ready to take a look around.

Leaving Barcelona

Is it morning yet??

clockwise: Julia, Joe, Flower, John

Arriving in Italy.

Departing and arriving look very similar, yes?.

Our first stop was a small cafe. It was wonderful to take our time dining - it's quite customary for wait staff to not rush the customer that often Americans interpret it as bad/slow service. We had a prime spot along a roundabout a near a trolley stop.

Flower & John - lunch in Milano

Joe & Marie - lunch in Milano

One of the things I was looking forward to in Italy was the pizza and the shopping. I was not disappointed in either area. The pizza was yummy (though we weren't always certain what we had ordered). Naturally, the pasta was delicious and I don't believe there were ever any leftovers.

If ever in Milano, a must-do is a visit to the Duomo (meaning: large cathedral). This structure is massive huge with an equally huge piazza (plaza) out front. What good is an Italian piazza without a stature of Napolean?

The Duomo - Milano, Italy

John, Marie, Joe, Flower - outside the Duomo, Milan, Italy

Lunch on the piazza w/Duomo as a backdrop - Joe, Flower, Marie

Shopping was all-together a different scene. We found the "Rodeo Drive" of Milan - I didn't feel comfortable walking into some shops, e.g. Prada (310€ per small leather coin purse, whatev). However, I hunted down and located the area of town most Milanese visit when they go shopping. Whew! Wear comfy shoes. There is no American-style mall - the largest shopping area was both sides of the street... for 4km!

Never fear, I found a few things to bring back to Heidelberg, but mostly I was interested in looking and not buying. Window shopping is primarily a safe hobby, while handbag or shoe shopping can become a full contact sport! Just keepin' it real.

Our hotel was awesome and quite affordable. At the same time, we were very happy to head home after two days there... we were in need of our own beds.

Joe, Marie, Flower - on our way to the train station from our hotel in Milan

Spending 6 hours on a train crossing the Alps was fabulous! Totally amazing scenery - and we'd have missed the view if traveling on an airplane. We saw small little hamlets nestled up in a valley, crystal clear lakes, sheep in a meadow, waterfalls, and even a camp ground. Sometimes it is the journey and not the destination. [Insert crazy running-in-flip flops-to-make-the-train-connection-in-Zurich story. You wouldn't believe it if I told you.]

Italy and the Alps with my people is where it's at.

Barcelona!

2009-05-22T11:43:00.000-07:00

What a terrific visit to Barcelona, Spain! - it was far more enjoyable and interesting than I anticipated. Travel by train is quite convenient (look for a future blog regarding train travel and making connections). Since we were going to be in town for four days, we decided to rent an apartment ... on the Mediterranean Sea. Talk about a spectacular view - holy cow it was amazing.

Flower and John

The view from our rental apartment.

For the first time, we opted to purchase a tour bus ticket (double-decker, hop on/hop off all around the city) - Barcelona Bus Turístic. We were glad to have done that since there was so much to see and it really gave us a lay of the land. It helped us decide on the areas we wanted to explore more fully.

Flower, Joe, Marie

L'Aquarium Barcelona was a fabulous afternoon for the family - there was something interesting for everyone. The highlight of our visit was gliding along the automatic footpath that wound it's way under the huge fish tank ... we could see all manner of sea life all around us. I just love love love "Jaws" - so the sharks were especially interesting to me.

Joe, Marie, Flower - outside the Aquarium

Marie, Flower, Joe

Joe, Flower, Marie, John - on the moving pathway under the shark/fish tank

We stopped by the Olympic Stadium (Summer Games - 1992). The hilltop where the games were held offers a breathtaking view of the city.

Marie, John, Joe, Flower - Olympic Stadium

One of my favorite stops was the Museu Picasso. I hadn't realized how much work he accomplished, but there was plenty of his art in this museum to appreciate. Having the kids with us to view these masterpieces was well worth making the trip.

During one of our many walkabouts (favorite quote from Joe at the end of a long day "arch supports baby, arch supports"), we came across an open air market offering every type of food possible - meat: fresh, smoked, dried; fruit: fresh, candied, preserved; etc. The colors and scents were amazing. Talk about spectacular!

Since we were taking the overnight train to Milano, Italy (separate post for that later) for the second leg of this trip, we enjoyed another full day of Barcelona prior to leaving. The Zoo de Barcelona is located on a huge piece of land in the middle of the city - it is a great zoo. Interestingly, the fees for the zoo were the highest fees for admission we paid at any site we visited in the city, but worth it. Then again, I love the zoo - and I grew up spoiled on the exquisite St. Louis Zoo (free admission for all.)

Flower, Marie, Joe - Rhino in background (looks like a rock)

John:elephant, Joe:tiger, Marie:monkey, Flower:camel

Joe, Flower, Marie - look's like we all had the same idea.

My take-away impression of Barcelona was a city that is alive and passionate. From the highest vantage points I looked out over the city and saw color and shape and energy! The rooftops offered every shade of terra cotta and it seemed like no two buildings side-by-side were shaped the same. The colors of the city, the market, the laundry hanging to dry juxtaposed with the green/blue sea simply overwhelmed the senses. *sigh* ... it was good times and I'm so grateful I got to share it with family.

clockwise: Marie, Joe, John, Flower - found a lovely park where we could rest our tired feet!

Flower, Joe, John, Marie - outside the Aquarium

Flower, John, Marie, Joe

Barcelona with my people is where it's at.

Mother's Day

2009-05-12T09:08:00.001-07:00

What a terrific Mother's Day Weekend I enjoyed this year! My people went way above and beyond the call of obligation. Gone were the perfunctory notes of proclaimed love and devotion; instead we enjoyed time together on an adventure (picnic in the Black Forest), dinner out, Sunday worship, a telephone call from our missionary, and gifts. Many many wonderful gifts (flowers, chocolates, perfume, and outrageous bling!).

I love being a mom and don't recall a time when I didn't want to be a mom. I have always wanted to have children. We worked hard to become pregnant with our oldest - temperature tests, etc. But Heavenly Father saw fit to send us children on His own timing. Over the years, we lost three little ones while still pregnant - I think of them often and wonder what might have been.

There is something magical about a newborn ... the downy scent, soft skin, their sweet toe-jam, and the look of peace when they sleep.

As they grow up, the times and seasons changed for me - in ways I wasn't always expecting. While they became more independent and self-reliant (dressing self, bathing, fixing their own cereal), I discovered they needed me more in other ways. Listening became a full time job and dispensing advice was my new calling.

No one warned me, but teenagers need a parent at home when they bust through the door after school more than a 3rd grader needs someone waiting for them (that's a pearl I'm offering).

None of it is possible without my husband John - he's an outstanding father and husband. Using an old-fashioned phrase ... he's a terrific provider and a steady example of compassion in our home.

Now, our beautiful sons and daughters range in age from 20 years to 13 years old. Marie is leaving for university in the Fall and Jack will return from Russia in October (then university in January). So, again I can see what I do will change, but my role never can - I'm their advocate and head cheerleader.

Jack - 1995, Grade 2

Marie - 1995, Kindergarten

Joe - 1998, HeadStart

Flower - 1999, Pre-K

For me, motherhood is where it's at.

Schwarzwald Picnic

2009-05-09T06:09:00.000-07:00

Today we went for a drive through the Schwarzwald (Black Forest); talk about spectacular!

The Black Forest (about an hour car drive south of Heidelberg) is 200km x 60km - which means we'll have to go back many times in order to see all of it. The weather was perfect for a drive through the mountains on the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse. As far as the eye could see was a sea of green in more shades than humanly possible - trees, shrubs, meadows .... it was simply gorgeous.

John and Julia Murphy

We stopped at several look-out points that provided breathtakingly beautiful vistas. There was an outcropping of rocks that we had fun climbing up and over and around. Took some great snapshots as well.

Clockwise: Marie, Joe, Flower

As planned, we carried a picnic lunch with us. There was a small area with a few picnic tables near an eagle's promontory. It was lovely to sit and enjoy each other's company. While we prepared our sandwiches, another couple out hiking passed by and struck up a conversation in English. Turns out they are from Hamburg and recommended June as the best month to visit the northern region of Germany.

L to R: Marie, Joe, Flower

I didn't realize how far up we had climbed until we started our decent! There were sections of the road that were posted as a 12% downhill grade. Along the way, the small hamlets and large meadows of perfect little chalets reminded me of a movie I used to watch when I was just a sprout - Heidi.

It was a great day for an alpine adventure ... as evidenced by the napping children on the way home.

Picnicking in the Black Forest with my family is where it's at.

Friday Night Fun Times

2009-05-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

Tonight was a ward activity for the Heidelberg English-speaking Military Ward - and what a night to remember. It was advertised as an evening of games, snacks, entertainment ... all very casual from 18:00-20:00. We arrived closer to 6:30 and were surprised to see a full stage set up complete with two drum kits, keyboards, 8 guitars, speakers, mics, etc. Also, there was a guy behind the the rolling tripod (television studio quality) video recorder. The onstage talent at that time was the seminary teacher/Army dentist doing an acoustic version of something I didn't quite recognize.

There was plenty of food from the snack aisle (chips, pretzels, Twizzlers, etc) and a surprising amount of fresh fruit with caramel dip. Marie had baked Angel Food cupcakes with strawberry and Cool Whip frosting - absolutely delicious! - and only 68 calories each.

After John and I found a seat along the sidelines, we were able to really take a look at the different solo artists, family groups, garage band types, and ensemble pieces.

The play list included: a 'rock band' that sang mostly in German complete with a wizened drummer sporting Birkenstocks, ponytail, and a caftan ... a mom and pop garage band with a keep-the-kids-busy-with-this-music-project-they-won't-go-astray sound ... a would-be boy band sans choreography ... the list goes on.

Funny thing, one of the best parts of the evening was the confidence of the participants to get up on stage and do their thing. It was a

truly safe environment with nothing but an encouraging vibe in the air.

Had I known this was akin to open mic night, I'd have suggested some def poetry jam - I'm thinking of a piece I wrote, "Married Sex."

I'm already looking forward to next year's event.

Live music with my family is where it's at.

Little of This, Little of That

2009-05-02T11:38:00.000-07:00

This past week as been quite busy.

Last Monday morning John crashed his bike on his commute to work.

He was able to ride back home (he was about 4km away), but he was pretty banged up and in pain. Recovery has been slow this week, but both shiners are starting to turn lighter shades of purple and the yellow has appeared. He took a good chunk of skin from his right knee. This photo wastaken after 6 days of recovery. *sigh*

Later in the week John made me a most delicious ham/cheese/tomato sandwich - it was so beautiful I just had to take a picture.

We had some fresh lilacs from the market - they reminded me so much of our house at 123 Lindenwood Avenue.

Mr. and Mrs. Neighbor dropped by to return the chicken noodle soup pot I had taken over to them. They were so appreciative ... they also gave me roses. I am still very humbled by their gratitude.

Enjoying one week at a time is where it's at.

Afternoon at the Park

2009-05-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

Another awesome day with my people. The weather in Heidelberg is idealic - bright sunshine, soft breeze, and the occassional poofy cloud.

We decided to take a short bike ride up and over the old bridge to one of the parks along the Neckar River. Before leaving the house, we each packed a lunch, a book, and a couple blankets to stretch out on. Since the park wasn't jammed with people yet, we landed a terrific grassy spot near a large tree with shade.

It was terrific to relax and visit and read. Of course the people-watching was good times too. There were lots of university students (the park is just a few blocks from campus), young couples, and new families with wee buntings hanging inside baby slings. We didn't see other families that looked like ours - dad, mom, teenagers. It turns out that most teens hang out with their friends from school and not with their families. I believe this explains why a few heads turn our direction as we ride along the river ... a few spectators have that they-can't-all-be-together-can-they? expression.

Finally! John relaxing.

Clockwise: Marie, Joe, Flower

Our bikes.

Of course, we have the impression that when the weather turns much warmer, park areas along the river (or at least sections of the park) become clothing top optional. Welcome to Europe! So far, it's still Spring and there's a lovely breeze.

Hanging out with family is where it's at.

Better to Give than Receive

2009-04-29T01:07:00.000-07:00

Quilting is a hobby of mine - I think it has something to do with all those colors and patterns.

Anyway, the past few days I've been putting together a small quilt to send to Brownwood Quilter's Guild in Texas. John's cousin Benita P. is the current president of this very active quilting group. As part of their community outreach,they donate baby quilts to local hospitals.

To much is given much is expected and we have been given much.

I put together this quilt top (45" x 55") to send to her; I emailed last week to make sure someone there would be able to machine quilt and bind it. I used only fabrics I brought with me since the cost of cotton fabrics here is near prohibitive (see previous post "Conversion Fever").

I don't think this is my best work, but it has so many colors and designs I'm hoping a toddler will enjoy having it as much as I've enjoyed putting it together.

This is the first time I've used pinwheels much less put pinwheels and four-patch squares together! Fortunately, the Brownwood Quilter's don't demand perfection, just patchwork made with love.

Quilts made for others is where it's at.

Chicken Soup for the Runny Nose

2009-04-25T05:02:00.000-07:00

Our neighbors across the hall were sick this past week ... the entire family wasn't feeling well, even their little 12-month-old (who is an absolute doll). Talk about the nicest people. Due to their professions, both are exceedingly fluent in English (which I accept as an answer to prayer), thus it has been possible to develop a friendship. Mr. and Mrs Neighbor along with Baby Neighbor are truly appreciated. Anyway, they were sick.

Friday morning I decided to make them a batch of homemade chicken noodle soup. This isn't exactly where the wheels come off, this is the part where I'm doing the same thing here, but in a different way.

Right after we moved, I noticed at most fresh vegetable stands (as well as the commissary, grocery store, and the Aldi-esque shops) there was a similar bundle of vegetable chunks banded together. I recognized the carrot, leek, and parsley - but not this other "item." After more than a month of wondering about it, John and I asked one of favorite vegetable sellers about this savory combination. Between his so-so English and our lousy German - we understood this to be a soup starter. The produce-meister used sign language to chop the vegetables, season, and add meat. Terrific!

The other "item" is something like a cross between a turnip and a parsnip. When I peeled it before chunking, it smelled very similar to celery and worked well in the soup; the flavor was just delicious.

Since then, we've bought a soup starter bundle almost every week. No two soup experiences have been the same, but they've all been *cough* souper yummy. John has always been a big fan of soup and the kids haven't complained one bit.

I hope my neighbors feel better soon. I hope we continue to try new and different items from the fresh produce stands. I hope to always be teachable.

Loving thy neighbor is where it's at.

Deutsche Post

2009-04-23T06:06:00.000-07:00

Postal systems (public and private) are as relevant and necessary today as they were hundreds of years ago. That's not to mean I could go without email... it's now as essential as a 52oz fountain Diet Coke and a fist full of Tootsie Rolls.

Once Jack landed in Russia, we fully embraced the flat-rate box offered at the U.S. Postal Service (and the adjacent hassle of completing a customs form). While the international rate of $32.95 was more than the domestic rate, it was 400x better than DHL, Fed Ex, or Express Mail from the USA to the former Soviet Republic. In January, the international flat rate box fee jumped to $53.95! What?! *heavy sigh*

To ward off the loss or looting of a box, we never sent expensive items. Primarily we concentrated on food items that could increase morale, photos of the family to share with investigators, and lots of his favorite chewing gum. It was often the case, ward members would want to send something to him and I willingly tossed it into the parcel for them. No way did the cash value ever reach close to the fees associated with sending it.

After mailing postcards from Holland (USA .95, Russia .77), I wanted to test the rates at the Deutsche Post/DHL (the mail service in Germany is now run by a private company). We started with a very small box as a test run of the service. The parcel contains food, candy, notes, and a photo of the five of us in France. Total cost: 6€!! No questions asked, no forms to complete. Hallelujah.

We'll see how long it takes to arrive at the mission office. Formerly, it's taken about 8 weeks from the midwest and then the package would sit in the office until someone was headed out to the district in which he was assigned. I'm keeping my fingers crossed it won't take long. More importantly, I'm grateful for access to an inexpensive mail system.

Parcels filled with love is where it's at.

Tour de Heidelberg

2009-04-22T06:23:00.000-07:00

In honor of Earth Day, I thought I'd blog a wee bit about my fantastic new set of wheels ... my Fahrrad (bicycle).

It's a Victoria Fahrradfrende pur Aluci ty in blue specifically designed for 'city' riding (notice how deep the center bar dips - this is a tremendous aid when stopping and starting for the many red lights, pedestrians, baby buggies, etc). I can very easily step through. There are front and rear lights on this beauty, but I'm waiting to find just the right bell for it.

Heidelberg has many, many bikes just about everywhere and bike theft is one the most frequent criminal activities here. On the other, it seems small potatoes when compared to Amsterdam. When we were there this past weekend, we saw parking garages for bikes. The one by the main train station had a three level garage that was jammed with bikes of all colors, shapes, conditions, etc. Our tour guide said that last year there were 700,000 stolen bike reports made to the police department. Too big to imagine!

Today's errands included a stop at the fresh market for lettuce, onions, tomatoes (tonight is deconstructed taco salad night just like Terie H. makes it). We also stopped at the butcher's and she gave us some terrific corned beef for Rueben sandwiches on Friday night. Marie and I biked over to the post office to mail Jack a small parcel (he's serving an LDS mission in Russia Ekaterinburg until Oct 2009) and then we made a couple of quick stops before a swing through Aldi (salami, raisin bread for toast, and katze sticks for Agnes). By carrying our own cloth bags we didn't require any plastic bags.

I was reminded on Feminist Mormon Housewives that Earth Day events don't have to be anything big and spectacular, just something small we incorporate into our daily lives. Once that's built into the routine, we can move on to the next 'earth friendly' behavioral change.

On the way back home I stopped to take a picture of the end of our street ... I like being here, though I miss and long to see my dear friends (and my dad).

Green, even in small amounts, is where it's at.

Tulips & Hyacinth; Bulbs-O-Plenty

2009-04-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

What an amazing day we experienced at Keukenhof Gardens in Holland this past weekend (I'm not sure when to say Holland or when to use The Netherlands, so I'm going to stick with Holland for now). After we arrived home last Tuesday from Paris, we cleaned out the backpacks, washed all the laundry, and repacked for a weekend train trip from Heidelberg to Amsterdam. Traveling by train has easily become a favorite mode of transportation for us: it's simple and we all get to relax and enjoy the journey.

We opted for a charter bus exercision to take us from the Amsterdam to the Gardens about 45 minutes out of town. It wasn't exactly a bus tour since it was there and back, but we had a host who liked to "spice things up" on the drive out and back. As a result, we were to spend 6 hours at the flower gardens enjoying all 7 million blooms. Later, John would admit he didn't have any flippin' idea how we were going to spend that much time in a flower garden - but time really did fly while we were there.

Hyacinth is an absolute favorite of mine - so incredibly fragrant! And they were everywhere the eye could see. Tulips of every color, shape, and size imaginable were in a glorious explosion of color. There were paved and mulched walking paths as well as large sculpted metal art pieces placed between different flower beds. Several ponds and little creeks trickling added a sense of intimacy, while the visual field was vast.

We got a basic lesson in the export industry of tulips. The massive fields of flowers serve two purposes - the export of cut flowers and the export of the bulb. The flowers must be cut in order to make the bulb stronger. The bulbs must be dug up in order for the "mother" bulb to be sold. The small bulbs that develop from this mommy bulb are detached and replanted and the cycle begins again. The cut flowers are taken to an auction space adjacent to the airport, which means they are bought, shipped, and "on the streets of New York the same afternoon."

I am so glad we went. Keukenhof is only open from about mid-March to mid-May and I would have been sad to miss it this year. At the same time, I'm really going to enjoy a break from traveling and get back to our routine here in Heidelberg. I think I'll go to the market today and buy some flowers for our table as a sunny reminder of our trip. In the meantime, I've added a slideshow on the sidebar of this blog with pictures I took of the beautiful blooms and greenspace at Keukenhof.

Die Blumen are where it's at.

Culinary Delights

2009-04-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

As promised, the dining experiences we enjoyed out and about in Paris cut across an eatery continuum.

Our initial leap into French dining was at a seafood restaurant recommended by the hotel desk clerk. She described it as having a diverse menu, located just down the avenue, and quite reasonably priced for a family of five... one out of three was correct - it only took 13 minutes to walk there. Since we did not have a reservation, we were seated in Siberia, but were offered an English language menu. Long story short.... keep choices simple (grilled salmon) and opt for fish soup instead of the sampler plater or raw oysters as an appetizer.

I'm crazy about 'street food' - the fast food of the local gentry. We enjoyed a lamb kebap with fries stacked on top after consuming cotton candy, Sprite, and ice cream cones (where's the Pepto Bismol?). We encountered a creperie cooking up sweets filled with Nutella (as popular over here as peanut butter is in the U.S.)

We spent two long lazy dinners sitting on the terrance of local bistros. What a treat it was to not get hurried along by the staff. It was such a calm and relaxed experience to truly enjoy the service, food, and each others' company ... any way that can be transplanted back?

Our hotel served a continental breakfast each morning, with a wide variety of granola, yogurt, dried figs and other fruits, croissant, and juices. It was delightful each and every day.

One of my favorite meals was served at a small bistro across the street from the hotel - the waiter told us (in French) what he was going to bring us for lunch. Ok, we can do that *shrug*. He brought bacon cheeseburgers and the BEST FRIES EVER. One look at me and you know I've eaten a few fries... these were crack-cocaine good.

On the good/bad scale... the pizza from Antonios was amazing. We'll go back there again... and again ... and again...

At home or far away, with the people I love ... eating is where it's at.

Laundry By Any Other Rock ...

2009-04-15T04:20:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky to have an automatic clothes washer and dryer in our Heidelberg flat - it's a real luxury and quite frankly, a mandatory appliance as far as I'm concerned.

The machines are considerably smaller here, which means I do twice as many loads as before. The washer is set not by fabric type or load size, but by desired water temperature (in celsius). Silver lining: it takes no time at all to fold the clean, dried clothes since there aren't many items per load.

Also, it is the case that the dryers do not vent directly outdoors, but water is collected in a water trough and emptied after every 2-3 cycles (along with the lint trap). Also, I must vent the window nearest the portable drying rack in order to allow the moisture from the clothes I hang dry.

There is very little fresh air flow inside the flats and homes that have been outfitted with the newer windows since German engineering is freakishly amazing. The windows are so good at keeping noise out, they also do not allow for fresh air to access or circulate indoors. Part of each day is devoted to opening and closing windows throughout the house... especially on laundry days. All of this is to avoid mold and mildew. Ok, I can do that.

At the end of the day, we have cleans clothes and towels. My kids don't leave the house in a popsicle stained t-shirt. And, I can send my husband to work smelling Tide© fresh. Life is grand.

A drawer of warm socks is where it's at.

Five Americans in Paris

2009-04-14T04:05:00.000-07:00

We had a terrific Easter holiday in Paris. It was our first time visiting France and our first time to leave Germany since arriving here in February. Traveling by train was incredibly easy and super fast. I uploaded to my facebook a snapshot of the kids on the ICE - we were traveling at 315km (196mph) and indeed it felt like any moment we should be wheels up and taking off! Such terrific circumstances that we only had a 5min walk from the house to the nearest train station that we could make our connection. I hope any visitors that come our way and who wish to visit Paris will decide to take the train (you know who you are *elbow in the ribs*).

When we arrived close to 5pm, none of us felt like an urban walkabout with our backpacks. However, there wasn't a taxi large enough for five passengers at Gare de L'est (the train station), so we opted for the metro. Talk about super easy! We used the Le Metropolitain and RER the entire time we were there. Navigating our way about the city was incredibly user-friendly. The underground system reminded us of the metro system in DC - just larger and not once did we get lost or feel unsafe. btw - we ran into a pair of LDS sister missionaries; it was terrific to give'm a shoutout as they went about their work.

Our hotel was conveniently located in a residential neighborhood which had a metro stop barely 100 meters away (the Wagram stop on line 3). At the same time, it was but a 1.2km walk to the Arc de Triomphe. Talk about sensational! After dark, it was lit beautifully ... and crowded. whew! We didn't go anywhere that wasn't crawling with people, but that was expected.

We saw and did so many things, I'm not sure what to include in my blog or what to leave out (Mona Lisa at the Louvre?, Notre Dame?, etc). I plan to post a food exposé on our culinary hits (and misses) along with some photos of the dishes we sampled... everything from pink cotton candy at the Eiffel Tower to the seafood sampler at Le Bar a Huitres Ternes to the crème brulée at Buffalo Bill's.

We are most grateful to all be home safely and in good health. On the train heading back home, it occurred to me that I now consider Heidelberg to be my home - even after a few short weeks. So what makes a home? I know I need a place to call home, even in this quasi-nomadic lifestyle I've adopted. For my good friend Sarah, gypsy life has worked ok so far, though I think maybe she's considering unpacking her bags in the new place (at least for now).

To answer my own question, for me... home is where I'm currently building Zion. It's where I cook for my people and unpack my books. It's where the laundry machine churns six days a week and my husband can put up his feet. Home is the manifestations of the relationships I have with the people I love and call family.

It's a tremendous blessing to travel and see and taste so many wonderful adventures. It's a privilege to experience lifelong dreams with family.

Home is where it's at.

Leaving Town

2009-04-10T01:22:00.000-07:00

Ever notice the amount of effort and energy required to get out of town? OHHOLYCOW!

We're headed out of town for a long Easter weekend getaway and it's taken money, time, and effort to get five backpacks loaded with just the right stuff and clean up after ourselves so we don't come back to a home that looks as though a cyclone passed through.

At the same time, I wouldn't want to not go. I've longed told the kids that the reason we take them camping is so they take our grandchildren camping. This snapshot was taken circa 2003.

Growing up, my family went on one summer vacation (1968), never went camping, and there were zero long weekends out of town. When John and I got married, he told me of his summers camping at Yellowstone, Disney, and his mother's penchant for packing them up and leaving town for a week or so. I wanted that for our children - but didn't know how to do that.

We have learned to just get up and go... though sometimes I think I might have missed a step on organizing such efforts and escapade, it's good to get out and experience the new and different as a family. As it turns out ... we love to camp as a family and long weekends out of town isn't a novelty for my people. I like that.

Today we're taking the ICE train to Paris and we're all together (except Jack who is serving a mission in Russia). Together on adventures is where it's at.

Has Spring Arrived?

2009-04-09T06:18:00.000-07:00

It might be the case that Spring is upon us in Heidelberg... I'm just not sure. Since we moved in the dead of winter, I don't have much to go on for what passes for "normal" around here.

From my windows we have an absolute perfect view for my husband and me. His ideal of wonderful includes a view with water... for me, I prefer mountains. Right now, we live in a river valley which offers something for both of us.

Today I basked in the wonderment of the hillside across the river - it is absolutely, exploding with yellow from the scattered forsythia and the new lime green of the leafing trees. I'm certain that back in the midwest, the redbud are blooming ... and I miss that signal of seasonal transition. But, I will glory in the yellow swatches of the valley.

It's a beautiful feeling where I'm at.

Conversion Fever

2009-04-08T00:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, so we've been here almost eight weeks now and I believe I'm starting to think in my new measurement standards... but only sometimes.

Because we have a GPS unit (here, most folks refer to that as a navi - short for navigation) in the car, I've learned to gauge road distance in meters and kilometers, etc. We recently switched to Sean Connery's voice on the navi, so he tells us to "exit in 800 meters then take the motorway." Nonetheless, I'm making the switch from miles to kilometers... and that's good for where we are.

In other areas, it hasn't been such smooth sailing. Take for example... yardage. I consider myself a novice quilter; most of my work focuses on scrappy designs and improving my skills to tackle bigger projects. In the states, a good quality cotton fabric could run as high as $12.00 per square yard (not that I ever spent that kinda money on fabrics!). Typically, I'd buy fabrics that were in the $4-6 dollar range. In a country with more wool than cotton, I found a fabric store that sells cotton only. The cheapest fabric available was €12,90 per sq meter. Double convert the euro to dollar and convert the sq meter to sq yard and it comes to approx $16.12 per sq yard... for the least quality in the store! It took two people ten minutes with a calculator to figure that out. *sigh*

When it comes to cooking and baking.... Germans cook by weight and not by volume (cups, teaspoons, etc). Only because I'm at the fresh market every week buying chicken breasts can I tell you that an average looking chicken breast is approx 100g. After that, I don't know a thing. Last week I armed my youngest with a bowl from the cupboard, stuffed a few euros in her pocket, sent her on foot to the vegetable stand, and told her "just fill the bowl with potatoes - I have no idea what the weight will be." She filled the bowl, paid, brought them home and I cooked dinner. Not exactly midwest living but it's precisely how we're doing things here (and we are not unique).

As a point of reference ...

Our new flat is 160,00 m² (referred to as quad meters)
The kids bike 4km one way to school
A 10 day Eurail Global Pass (with an 8 week timeline) is €603

I hope to think in metric soon, but I'm cool with where I'm at.

No time like the present

2009-04-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

I've been promising my friends that I would get a blog started to document our time and experiences in Germany. Now that I feel mostly settled in and have the time to concentrate, I'm not sure where to start describing our transition from American life to ... something different.

We moved in early February 2009 from a fabulous home in the midwest - my husband John was offered a new assignment inside the terrific company he works for. After three weeks in temporary housing, we encamped to an equally wonderful flat in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Heidelberg. We live in a converted attic which offers spectacular views of the Heidelberg Castle built in 1214 to the east and the Rhine-Neckar to the west.

We left behind the best of friends, colleagues, mentors, school chums, and a comfortable (yet predictable) lifestyle. The greater significance however, we moved together as a family... even bringing our cat of 9 years.

That aside, I'm doing the same things today that I've been doing most of my married life: cooking dinner, folding laundry, raising kids, and loving my husband. It doesn't matter one bit where you're at, it where you're at that makes the difference. I embrace those responsibilities, but it isn't the end all and be all of who I am and how I define myself.

Fortunately, I'm cool with where I'm at.