Wow! 2011 was a year full of accomplishments for me.
It will be hard for 2012 to top it!
1. Masters degree in Soil Science
2. Learned to down-hill ski
3. Lived and worked in another country (Germany)
4. Learned German
5. Made lots of new friends from around the world
6. Got engaged
7. Traveled to Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Ireland, England and Scotland
8. Got married
9. Became a mommy!
10. Finally replaced my old-school monitor with a flat screen :)
Welcome 2012! We will see what you have in store for me this year.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Status changes.
In the last few months, I have changed my social status. No longer am I a student or a girlfriend...I am now a wife...and most recently a mom!
Georg and I got married in early October. I would not change a single thing about the entire day. I had a good night's sleep the night before, had a relaxing morning getting my hair 'did' with the girls, a fun afternoon taking pictures, a wonderful ceremony in a beautiful church, and a fun-filled, evening with dancing and eating with the most important people in my life.
I spent September to early December working and prepping our lives for the birth of our baby. We painted the 'nursery', had friends over for the "last supper", had fun (and a bit of stress) buying baby things - clothes, change pads, car seat, etc. - while trying to keep to a small budget.
And, on December 8th, I went into labour! Elden Jakob Maas arrived at 5:30am on December 9th. Things have been a bit of a blur since then; time is traveling so fast! Elden weighed a whole 9 lbs at birth! Who would have thought he was going to be that big! I ended up having an emergency cesarean because he was so big, but after an 18-hour labour, he needed to come out! He is 3 weeks old tomorrow and is growing and looking like a little boy more every day.
Baby Elden, only a few hours old.
Such teeny, tiny fingers!
Getting some "mommy hormones" and snuggles.
6 days old and growing.
Thank you to all the visitors we have had over the past few weeks and all the wonderful gifts we have received. Georg and I are looking forward to visiting our friends and relatives in Germany this spring and introducing them to Baby Elden.
Georg and I got married in early October. I would not change a single thing about the entire day. I had a good night's sleep the night before, had a relaxing morning getting my hair 'did' with the girls, a fun afternoon taking pictures, a wonderful ceremony in a beautiful church, and a fun-filled, evening with dancing and eating with the most important people in my life.
I spent September to early December working and prepping our lives for the birth of our baby. We painted the 'nursery', had friends over for the "last supper", had fun (and a bit of stress) buying baby things - clothes, change pads, car seat, etc. - while trying to keep to a small budget.
And, on December 8th, I went into labour! Elden Jakob Maas arrived at 5:30am on December 9th. Things have been a bit of a blur since then; time is traveling so fast! Elden weighed a whole 9 lbs at birth! Who would have thought he was going to be that big! I ended up having an emergency cesarean because he was so big, but after an 18-hour labour, he needed to come out! He is 3 weeks old tomorrow and is growing and looking like a little boy more every day.
Thank you to all the visitors we have had over the past few weeks and all the wonderful gifts we have received. Georg and I are looking forward to visiting our friends and relatives in Germany this spring and introducing them to Baby Elden.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Travelling Momma!
Well, exciting news first! I'm gonna be a mommy! If you didn't know that yet, then we need to talk...so call me!! I'm over half-way there already...and things are going great.
In less exciting (but still exciting) news, I am back in Canada. It is kind of weird being back at home, because it feels like nothing has changed. Like before, I am living with my parents during the "waiting for a house" phase, working casually at DS, visiting friends, talking to my sweetheart via Skype...
That being said though, I am planning for a wedding, a baby, and moving my Grandma into a personal care home and me into her house! So, busy, busy!!
I spent July traveling Europe. In early July, I visted a friend in Florence, Italy for 3 days (32C!!). The rest of the month, I spent traveling around the United Kingdom. I stopped for 24 hours in London (22C), took the bus/ferry to Dublin (20C), did a 7-day bus tour of Ireland (15-20C, brr!!), hung out in Dublin for a few days, and traveled to Edinburgh, Inverness (didn't see the Loch Ness monster), and Oban (a seaport town) in Scotland (on average 24C).
It's hard to say what place I liked the best...but the scenery in Ireland was absolutely breath-taking.
Here are some of my favourite pictures:
Bridges in Florence, Italy
Stone wall in south Ireland
Beach in south Ireland
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
The Aran island of Inis Mor, West Ireland
Sitting on the Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
Resting on a Dublin doorstep, Ireland
Searching for Nessie on the shores of Loch Ness, Scotland
Inverness Pipe Band, Scotland
Overlooking the Isle of Kerrera from Oban, Scotland
Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park in Edinburgh, Scotland
A friend and I on Calton Hill, overlooking Edinburgh
In less exciting (but still exciting) news, I am back in Canada. It is kind of weird being back at home, because it feels like nothing has changed. Like before, I am living with my parents during the "waiting for a house" phase, working casually at DS, visiting friends, talking to my sweetheart via Skype...
That being said though, I am planning for a wedding, a baby, and moving my Grandma into a personal care home and me into her house! So, busy, busy!!
I spent July traveling Europe. In early July, I visted a friend in Florence, Italy for 3 days (32C!!). The rest of the month, I spent traveling around the United Kingdom. I stopped for 24 hours in London (22C), took the bus/ferry to Dublin (20C), did a 7-day bus tour of Ireland (15-20C, brr!!), hung out in Dublin for a few days, and traveled to Edinburgh, Inverness (didn't see the Loch Ness monster), and Oban (a seaport town) in Scotland (on average 24C).
It's hard to say what place I liked the best...but the scenery in Ireland was absolutely breath-taking.
Here are some of my favourite pictures:
Monday, June 13, 2011
Fertig! Finished!
Der Deutschkurs ist zu ende!!! Our German class is completed!
Wow! After 6 months, my classmates and I have completed our German Integration course. With the help of 2 marvelous teachers, Klaus and Tarana, we have made it through learning countless confusing words, complicated German grammar, and of course, numerous role plays. Through it all, we laughed, had fun, and made many, many unforgettable memories. Plus, friends from around the world.
Our course had people from Romania, Algeria, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Poland, Iraq, Vietnam, Dominican Republic, Italy, Russia, and Turkey. It was so much fun learning about one another's culture and way of life, and particularly, the reasons why they are currently living in Germany. Most are here because of significant others (sigh, what love will make you do...), but others have come here for a better life or for political asylum from war-ravaged countries.
The final group! From L to R: Siva (Sri Lanka), Diaga (Latvia), Dragos (Romania), Sofia (Italy), Karn (Thailand), So (Nigeria?), Manau (Algeria), Gia (Thailand), Sally (Iraq), me, Klaus (our German teacher), Osmann (Turkey), Minerva, Fatma, Fadime (all from Turkey), and Nghia (Vietnam). Karadisha (Kazakhstan) took the photo.
Some of my good friends...wir haben viel, viel Hausaufgaben gemacht!!! Aber nicht zusammen!
Last week, we began first of our 3 final exams. Our first was a Orientierungsprüfung, a nation-wide test for those who wish to become German citizens. It covered German politics, culture and history. Of course, I don't wish to become a German citizen, but did it out of self-interest. And it was interesting...
Friday, we had our written test, consisting of listening, reading, and writing a letter. It lastest 2 and half hours, but I was very proud of myself when I was finished. I feel fairly confident about both tests so far...now for the final test tomorrow!! Oral!
The oral examination is only 30 minutes long and done with a partner. We introduce ourselves, talk about a picture we are given, and then plan a party or holiday based on a theme we are given in the exam. Should be interesting, as it is totally hands-on, no not forgetting a word! Plus, speaking has always been a challenge for me when it comes to languages...
My learning-German sidekick, Karn. We are takng our oral exam together tomorrow! Eeeckkk!!!!!
Manau and I. He learned English in London and so has a strong Cockney accent. He makes sure to teach me the proper way of saying things! :D
Wow! After 6 months, my classmates and I have completed our German Integration course. With the help of 2 marvelous teachers, Klaus and Tarana, we have made it through learning countless confusing words, complicated German grammar, and of course, numerous role plays. Through it all, we laughed, had fun, and made many, many unforgettable memories. Plus, friends from around the world.
Our course had people from Romania, Algeria, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Poland, Iraq, Vietnam, Dominican Republic, Italy, Russia, and Turkey. It was so much fun learning about one another's culture and way of life, and particularly, the reasons why they are currently living in Germany. Most are here because of significant others (sigh, what love will make you do...), but others have come here for a better life or for political asylum from war-ravaged countries.
Last week, we began first of our 3 final exams. Our first was a Orientierungsprüfung, a nation-wide test for those who wish to become German citizens. It covered German politics, culture and history. Of course, I don't wish to become a German citizen, but did it out of self-interest. And it was interesting...
Friday, we had our written test, consisting of listening, reading, and writing a letter. It lastest 2 and half hours, but I was very proud of myself when I was finished. I feel fairly confident about both tests so far...now for the final test tomorrow!! Oral!
The oral examination is only 30 minutes long and done with a partner. We introduce ourselves, talk about a picture we are given, and then plan a party or holiday based on a theme we are given in the exam. Should be interesting, as it is totally hands-on, no not forgetting a word! Plus, speaking has always been a challenge for me when it comes to languages...
Monday, May 30, 2011
the engagement story
I'm engaged!!
Earlier this month, Georg and I were on a motorcycle tour throughout southern Germany, and Georg decided to make it a super memorable trip!
While visiting Schloss Neuschwanstein (also known as The Disney Castle, because Walt Disney based the design on this castle) in Bavaria, Georg gave me one of the best treats of my life.
We had arrived at the castle late in the afternoon because we had had to travel 250 kms to get there from his sister's place near Stuttgart. This meant that we couldn't get into the castle, but could walk the grounds. The castle is perched on a small mountain in the Alpin foothills, overlooking a wide, flat valley. The view is absolutely stunning! We gawked at the view for awhile and then decided to hike up the mountain a bit further to another lookout point, this time with the castle included in the valley panorama.
First close view of Schloss Neuschwanstein.
Front of the castle.
Looking into the valley...can you see the other castle?
At this lookout point, a bridge suspended over a dry riverbed, (which was very far down!), we were slightly above the castle elevation, giving us a great vantage point as to how majestic the castle really was. (Sure, it is a fairly new castle, only slightly over 150 yrs old, but beautiful nonetheless.) There were many tourists here, and so Georg suggested we climb up an adjacent hiking path (so that we could be alone). I didn't even suspect a thing!
From the bridge lookout point.
So, it was here, at the "top of world", overlooking a stunning castle, with mountains in the background, the fresh wind in my hair, that Georg asked me to marry him! And, of course, I said "yes!" (Well, at first, I said, "No, way!! Really!?! No way!!" But after that, I said "yes!").
The view overlooking the valley. Sooo beautiful!
The newly-engaged couple. Sigh.
We have decided to get married this fall, and will do so October 8th in Canada. Get ready for your wedding invitations!
Earlier this month, Georg and I were on a motorcycle tour throughout southern Germany, and Georg decided to make it a super memorable trip!
While visiting Schloss Neuschwanstein (also known as The Disney Castle, because Walt Disney based the design on this castle) in Bavaria, Georg gave me one of the best treats of my life.
We had arrived at the castle late in the afternoon because we had had to travel 250 kms to get there from his sister's place near Stuttgart. This meant that we couldn't get into the castle, but could walk the grounds. The castle is perched on a small mountain in the Alpin foothills, overlooking a wide, flat valley. The view is absolutely stunning! We gawked at the view for awhile and then decided to hike up the mountain a bit further to another lookout point, this time with the castle included in the valley panorama.
At this lookout point, a bridge suspended over a dry riverbed, (which was very far down!), we were slightly above the castle elevation, giving us a great vantage point as to how majestic the castle really was. (Sure, it is a fairly new castle, only slightly over 150 yrs old, but beautiful nonetheless.) There were many tourists here, and so Georg suggested we climb up an adjacent hiking path (so that we could be alone). I didn't even suspect a thing!
So, it was here, at the "top of world", overlooking a stunning castle, with mountains in the background, the fresh wind in my hair, that Georg asked me to marry him! And, of course, I said "yes!" (Well, at first, I said, "No, way!! Really!?! No way!!" But after that, I said "yes!").
We have decided to get married this fall, and will do so October 8th in Canada. Get ready for your wedding invitations!
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Unfall / Accident
I had an interesting train ride to work yesterday morning.
I will point out that it was a Tuesday, meaning that I needed to get up at 5:30am in order to catch my train and get to work for 7:45.
So, everything was going smoothly...Georg dropped me off at the train station 5 min before the train got there (normally, we get there 30sec-1 min before), so everything was relaxed. Train arrived on time...again, another bonus for the day flying by smoothly (it can range from 5-15min late). By now, the time was 6:35am.
Things got bumpy between Kempen and Krefeld. The train braked suddenly and slowed down really fast. We went from more than 100kph to 0 in about 15sec. While this was happening, a noise of something hitting the underside of the train could be heard. After the train stopped, an automatic message came over the loudspeakers: "The train has been involved in an accident. We are waiting for the police". It was 6:45am. So much for my day going smoothly.
Myself and at least 200 other passengers waited 2 hours while 5 Polizei cars, 3 Feuerwagens, and 2 Ambulanzen personal investigated the situation. We never learned what happened...and I had to cancel both of my morning classes. So, by the time I arrived in Düsseldorf at 10am, I was out 50€ from missed work and out wanted sleep. Argh!
My friend, Anja, ended up inviting me over to her new apartment, which made my trip to Düss worthwhile. :D
Speaking with a friend on the train this morning, she said she heard that it was a suicide. But, I've read nothing in the paper and heard nothing else about it.
Regardless, I think that getting hit by a train is a horrible way to die. Especially at 6:45 in the morning.
I will point out that it was a Tuesday, meaning that I needed to get up at 5:30am in order to catch my train and get to work for 7:45.
So, everything was going smoothly...Georg dropped me off at the train station 5 min before the train got there (normally, we get there 30sec-1 min before), so everything was relaxed. Train arrived on time...again, another bonus for the day flying by smoothly (it can range from 5-15min late). By now, the time was 6:35am.
Things got bumpy between Kempen and Krefeld. The train braked suddenly and slowed down really fast. We went from more than 100kph to 0 in about 15sec. While this was happening, a noise of something hitting the underside of the train could be heard. After the train stopped, an automatic message came over the loudspeakers: "The train has been involved in an accident. We are waiting for the police". It was 6:45am. So much for my day going smoothly.
Myself and at least 200 other passengers waited 2 hours while 5 Polizei cars, 3 Feuerwagens, and 2 Ambulanzen personal investigated the situation. We never learned what happened...and I had to cancel both of my morning classes. So, by the time I arrived in Düsseldorf at 10am, I was out 50€ from missed work and out wanted sleep. Argh!
My friend, Anja, ended up inviting me over to her new apartment, which made my trip to Düss worthwhile. :D
Speaking with a friend on the train this morning, she said she heard that it was a suicide. But, I've read nothing in the paper and heard nothing else about it.
Regardless, I think that getting hit by a train is a horrible way to die. Especially at 6:45 in the morning.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Cutest Jumpsuit Ever!
I was browsing clothing stores before my German class a few days ago, and came across the cutest article of clothing I have seen this summer! A jumpsuit (harem-style) made out of colourful cloth!! It is totally my style -something cute, fun, and light-hearted.
Seeing as the temperature is reaching 26C this beautiful Good Friday and Georg and I are going on a bike ride through the countryside, I have decided to wear it today. :D
Thursday, April 21, 2011
There are hicks living in Germany too!
On our way to a local Nature Park to go hiking on Sunday, Georg and I came across a Tractor Pull taking place in a farmer's field. From the highway, all I could see was billowing black smoke. And so Georg asked me, "Do you know what a tractor pull is?". I had always been under the assumption that tractor pulling was essentially hooking up two tractors to each other and them driving in opposite directions to see who has the better engine power. I was very wrong!
A tractor pull is in fact a competition between tractors (grouped into weight categories) who need to pull a sled with weights (changed depending on tractor weight categories) across 90m. Any tractors managing to pull the sled the full length are awarded what is called a "Full Pull", and can then compete again against each other with heavier sled weights.
A tractor pulling the sled...and working very hard to drag it!
No power left (the weight was too heavy) and so the tractor came to a stand-still.
I ended up having a great time for the 4 hours that we were at the tractor pull, watching ordinary and souped-up (bigger, more powerful engines. complex exhaust systems) tractors drag 10-15 tonnes across a field. Sometimes an unsubstantial tractor managed to get a Full Pull, whereas a bigger, newer-looking tractor would only get to the half-way point. Most tractors took the "slow, but steady" approach, starting in a low gear and inching slowly towards the finish line. However, in the "sport/professional" category, the tractors would rev their engines, releasing vast amounts of thick, black smoke from their exhausts systems, let the clutch out, and Z.....O......O......M! Pull fast to start and about half done would slow down to a crawl until their engines couldn't pull the weight any longer.
Wikipedia definitions:
Hick: A person who was raised in a rural area
Tractor Pull: a motorsport competition, popular in America, Europe (invented in the Netherlands) and Australia, which requires modified tractors to pull a heavy sledge (sled) along a 90 metre track, with the winner being the tractor that pulls the sledge farthest.
A tractor pull is in fact a competition between tractors (grouped into weight categories) who need to pull a sled with weights (changed depending on tractor weight categories) across 90m. Any tractors managing to pull the sled the full length are awarded what is called a "Full Pull", and can then compete again against each other with heavier sled weights.
I ended up having a great time for the 4 hours that we were at the tractor pull, watching ordinary and souped-up (bigger, more powerful engines. complex exhaust systems) tractors drag 10-15 tonnes across a field. Sometimes an unsubstantial tractor managed to get a Full Pull, whereas a bigger, newer-looking tractor would only get to the half-way point. Most tractors took the "slow, but steady" approach, starting in a low gear and inching slowly towards the finish line. However, in the "sport/professional" category, the tractors would rev their engines, releasing vast amounts of thick, black smoke from their exhausts systems, let the clutch out, and Z.....O......O......M! Pull fast to start and about half done would slow down to a crawl until their engines couldn't pull the weight any longer.
Wikipedia definitions:
Hick: A person who was raised in a rural area
Tractor Pull: a motorsport competition, popular in America, Europe (invented in the Netherlands) and Australia, which requires modified tractors to pull a heavy sledge (sled) along a 90 metre track, with the winner being the tractor that pulls the sledge farthest.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Bittersweet
Georg and I have decided to move to Canada this Fall for a "test period" of one year. I will try to get an agricultural job and Georg will most likely enroll in the electrician program with Red River College (Although he will try to challenge the electrical exam to reduce his education time, as he already has a degree in Mechatronics- part mechanics, part electrical).
Even if you had asked me if I was excited about the move a month ago, I would have whole-heartedly replied, "YES!". But, now, I am becoming bittersweet. I am having mixed feelings about up-rooting my life again. Although I don't want to teach English for the rest of my life (I want to work within the Agriculture industry), I have created a life for myself here in Germany. More and more I am realizing how hard it will be leave it. This doesn't mean that I don't miss my friends, my family, my life, that I had back in Canada, but I know that things won't be the same at home as how they were when I came to Germany.
Each day I become more confident in the German language, I solidify friendships, find a niche for myself in the culture...and of course, there are many things about living in Germany that I love. But of course, there is the downside of missing out on experiences with my Grandmas, my family (new bfs/gfs, everyday banter), my friends (babies, new houses, etc.) And, I agree with certain Canadian customs more than German ones....
Deciding where to live when you need to choose between two lives and families is so hard! (But Mom, don't worry, we are still planning on moving to the Red River Valley, I am just re-thinking my decision.)
Even if you had asked me if I was excited about the move a month ago, I would have whole-heartedly replied, "YES!". But, now, I am becoming bittersweet. I am having mixed feelings about up-rooting my life again. Although I don't want to teach English for the rest of my life (I want to work within the Agriculture industry), I have created a life for myself here in Germany. More and more I am realizing how hard it will be leave it. This doesn't mean that I don't miss my friends, my family, my life, that I had back in Canada, but I know that things won't be the same at home as how they were when I came to Germany.
Each day I become more confident in the German language, I solidify friendships, find a niche for myself in the culture...and of course, there are many things about living in Germany that I love. But of course, there is the downside of missing out on experiences with my Grandmas, my family (new bfs/gfs, everyday banter), my friends (babies, new houses, etc.) And, I agree with certain Canadian customs more than German ones....
Deciding where to live when you need to choose between two lives and families is so hard! (But Mom, don't worry, we are still planning on moving to the Red River Valley, I am just re-thinking my decision.)
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Spring in Deutschland
I really, really wish that I hadn't been suffering from various colds over the last couple weeks, just so that I could have been able to smell the flower blooms that are EVERYWHERE!!
Germany is a particularly beautiful place during spring. Since the beginning of March, crocuses, daffodils and a lupin-type flower have been blooming on the boulevards, in gardens, and almost everywhere you look! Yellow, white, purple... These blooms make everything so colourful and me smile. :D
Daffodils on the boulevard.
Flowers poking out of last year's growth.
Over the last 2 weeks, trees have now begun blooming! Although the crocus and daffodil flowers have faded, now white and various shades of pink blossoms are poking out from the greening tree canopies. Walking past the trees, the scent of the blossoms hang heavily in the air (mmm, such a good smell!) and the sound of the busy, busy bees that are pollenating them can be heard.
Snow-white blossoms.
Pink blossoms on a tree in the park.
Walking along the Niers river in Geldern.
Furthermore, lambs are excitedly jumping around pastures, foals are frolicking with their friends, and the ducks in the pond in the park across the street are starting to find hiding places for their nests... I have even seen some early butterflies fluttering around!
Ah, spring...a time for all things new!
Germany is a particularly beautiful place during spring. Since the beginning of March, crocuses, daffodils and a lupin-type flower have been blooming on the boulevards, in gardens, and almost everywhere you look! Yellow, white, purple... These blooms make everything so colourful and me smile. :D
Over the last 2 weeks, trees have now begun blooming! Although the crocus and daffodil flowers have faded, now white and various shades of pink blossoms are poking out from the greening tree canopies. Walking past the trees, the scent of the blossoms hang heavily in the air (mmm, such a good smell!) and the sound of the busy, busy bees that are pollenating them can be heard.
Furthermore, lambs are excitedly jumping around pastures, foals are frolicking with their friends, and the ducks in the pond in the park across the street are starting to find hiding places for their nests... I have even seen some early butterflies fluttering around!
Ah, spring...a time for all things new!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Birnen Risotto
(picture courtesy of Google images)
I went out with some friends from work for lunch earlier this week. It was a little restaurant on a relatively quiet corner in Düsseldorf. And amidst the firetruck sirens and honking cars we sat outside to enjoy the beautiful sunny weather Germany has been experiencing.
I don't know if it was the atmosphere of the quaint surroundings, the company of friends, or the 15C and sunny weather, but I ate the most wonderful, flavourful meal I have had in a long time. Birnen Risotto mit Rucola und geriebener Parmesankäse. For my English friends: Pear Risotto with Arugula and grated Parmesan. Wow. I am still trying to find the words to describe how yummy it was.
For those of you who don't know what risotto is..., it is essentially short-grained rice that is toasted and slowly simmered (not boiled) with broth and white wine. The alcohol content is evaporated, leaving a nice flavour behind. So far, I have only made my own risotto...my favourite is asparagus with Camembert. But now, I think that I have a new recipe to try! Of course, no risotto recipe is ever the same, but I have found a pear risotto recipe similar to that I ate. It is
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Pasta_Rice_Main/RisottoPear.htm
if you are interested in cooking up a delightful meal. Enjoy!
Perhaps this experience was so amazing because I simply like risotto and have never eaten it in a restaurant before... Regardless, I have to thank Gordon Ramsay and "Hell's Kitchen" for introducing the amazing dish of risotto to me. :D Mmmm.....
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Venlo, Netherlands
On one of Mom's last days here, we decided to drive into the Netherlands to visit a popular marketplace in Venlo. We were unprepared for the masses of people! Although the city is quite small, I guess that Germans and Dutch alike converge on the city on Saturday mornings...creating minor traffic jams! Fortunately, we were able to find parking in the vicinity of the market, and enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the stalls and along the shopping streets in the area.
This market focuses primarly on spring cut and potted flowers, cloth, cheese and meats, and cheaply-made clothing. Despite the throngs of people, we had an enjoyable time, both purchasing unique clothing articles. I got the cutest skirt and she a cuddly sweater.
I really wish that markets would be the norm in Canada...occasionally they are. But, I suppose that Canada just doesn't have the population or the product to support something like this regularly. Not only is it much more fun than shopping in the store, I find produce is much more flavourful (but of course, slightly more expensive). After my walk this morning, I purchased a bag of Spanish clementines (like mandarines) from the market in Geldern...I can't wait to see how juicy they are!
All I suggest to Winnipegers is to continuing supporting the St. Norbert Farmers' Market!! And I think that Osborne Village also has a small market in the summer and late fall.
This market focuses primarly on spring cut and potted flowers, cloth, cheese and meats, and cheaply-made clothing. Despite the throngs of people, we had an enjoyable time, both purchasing unique clothing articles. I got the cutest skirt and she a cuddly sweater.
I really wish that markets would be the norm in Canada...occasionally they are. But, I suppose that Canada just doesn't have the population or the product to support something like this regularly. Not only is it much more fun than shopping in the store, I find produce is much more flavourful (but of course, slightly more expensive). After my walk this morning, I purchased a bag of Spanish clementines (like mandarines) from the market in Geldern...I can't wait to see how juicy they are!
All I suggest to Winnipegers is to continuing supporting the St. Norbert Farmers' Market!! And I think that Osborne Village also has a small market in the summer and late fall.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Aachen und Düsseldorf
Mom and I had been planning on visiting Berlin for 4 days during her last weekend here, but I made a mistake and booked the tickets on the wrong day...so, we have been doing day trips in the NRW (North Rhein-Westfalia) province instead.
Yesterday, we drove to an university student-city, Aachen, at the conjunction of the Belgian, German, and Dutch borders. With a population of around 250,000 people, it is considered a small city, but an extremely gorgeous and old one!! Aachen was founded in the late 700s by Charlemagne, due to the hot (but stinky!!) springs that lie under the city. The Old City is absolutely breathtaking, with numerous brick buildings built in the 1600s, cute courtyards, and fountains inspired by village people throughout the centurys. The Cathedral/Dom is a gigantic structure, and served as the coronation church for 30 Roman Emperors starting in 936. Inside, Charlemagne built an amazing chapel with sparkling mosiacs of nature and people. We also enjoyed a typical German market, filled with flowers, meat, cheese, and bread stands.
A street in the Old City with the oldest bar in town (dating from the mid-1600s); in the background you can see the Dom.
Beautiful mosiac inside the Dom.
Today, we visited Düsseldorf, NRW's state capital. It's population is a bit smaller than Winnipeg, but I find the majority of the city is devoted to huge company buildings. Although the AltStadt through which we toured today had gorgeous old buildings and the Rhein river showed a beautiful city skyline, I find Düsseldorf to have little character. Yes, the shopping area is absolutely great, but I think that I like Köln better as a city (sorry to all my Düsseldorf friends!).
The Rheinturm, a revolving restaurant with (supposedly) a great view of the city.
A coal barge on the Rhein. Yes, even barge captains need to do laundry!
The AltStadt along the Rhein.
Hmmm...what city to visit tomorrow??
Yesterday, we drove to an university student-city, Aachen, at the conjunction of the Belgian, German, and Dutch borders. With a population of around 250,000 people, it is considered a small city, but an extremely gorgeous and old one!! Aachen was founded in the late 700s by Charlemagne, due to the hot (but stinky!!) springs that lie under the city. The Old City is absolutely breathtaking, with numerous brick buildings built in the 1600s, cute courtyards, and fountains inspired by village people throughout the centurys. The Cathedral/Dom is a gigantic structure, and served as the coronation church for 30 Roman Emperors starting in 936. Inside, Charlemagne built an amazing chapel with sparkling mosiacs of nature and people. We also enjoyed a typical German market, filled with flowers, meat, cheese, and bread stands.
A street in the Old City with the oldest bar in town (dating from the mid-1600s); in the background you can see the Dom.
Beautiful mosiac inside the Dom.
Today, we visited Düsseldorf, NRW's state capital. It's population is a bit smaller than Winnipeg, but I find the majority of the city is devoted to huge company buildings. Although the AltStadt through which we toured today had gorgeous old buildings and the Rhein river showed a beautiful city skyline, I find Düsseldorf to have little character. Yes, the shopping area is absolutely great, but I think that I like Köln better as a city (sorry to all my Düsseldorf friends!).
The Rheinturm, a revolving restaurant with (supposedly) a great view of the city.
A coal barge on the Rhein. Yes, even barge captains need to do laundry!
The AltStadt along the Rhein.
Hmmm...what city to visit tomorrow??
Monday, March 07, 2011
Party time!
My Mom has arrived for 2 whole weeks!! And what better way to celebrate than in the Nordrhein-Westfalen style of Karneval?!?!
After spending Wednesday to Friday shopping and touring Krefeld (the city where I have my German class), while Georg and I worked/studied, I'm sure that Mom was ready to experience the excitement of Karneval (as was I). In anticipation for this event, Mom had created Georg and I magnificent costumes for Christmas. Saturday morning, we drove into Köln with some Georg's family and friends to tour the Dom and the city's downtown. In the afternoon we took in a small suburb Karneval parade, in costume, where we shouted "Alaf!" to greet to floats, "Kamelle!" to request candies, and "Streussia!" for flowers. By the end of the parade, Mom and I had a huge bag of candy and a hand-full of tulips and roses. Afterwards, we had tea and cake at his Aunt's house. Everyone went to the local pub for Kölsch (Köln's beer) and dancing around 6pm (this isn't even considered early!) The younger generation traveled further into the city for crazier partying, but Georg and I called it a night around 10pm.
A quick tour of the Köln's downtown.
It's parade time!! (L to R: a crashtest dummy [Mark, cousin], Me the bear, an advertisement board [Claudia, cousin], a clown [Anni, Georg's sister], and a tomato [Lisa, family friend]).
On Sunday morning, following the typical German breakfast of buns and cheese/jam, we jumped back into our face paint and costumes for a bigger (albeit small) parade in Köln's city centre. It is tradition for family/friends to meet at the same location along the parade route every year, so that
1) friends know where to find you should they want to visit, or
2) friends in the parade can gift you flowers and special treats (large choc. bars, unique coloured roses, etc.).
This parade had over 100 floats and lasted 4 hours! Friends pulled out their accordions, drums and tambourines to jam together on the street, all ages wore costumes, there was shouting and dancing and singing the entire time... We didn't stay until the end, but the musical atmosphere and excitement of the Kölnians was addicting.
Zoo animals at the larger parade in Köln (L to R: Georg the monkey, Mark the tiger and Siobhan the dancing bear).
More of our kind....
Today is Rosen Montag (Rose Monday), the day for the Köln's largest, craziest parade. Supposedly, you must get to your standing spot on the street hours in advance and seats in the bleachers set up along the parade route must be bought months before. This is a professional parade, consisting of Karneval "groups" who have a lot of money to buy things to throw to the crowd. Needless to say, we are not attending, but are spending a quiet day at home before the work-week begins again tomorrow.
Really, the question is now...what to be next year???
After spending Wednesday to Friday shopping and touring Krefeld (the city where I have my German class), while Georg and I worked/studied, I'm sure that Mom was ready to experience the excitement of Karneval (as was I). In anticipation for this event, Mom had created Georg and I magnificent costumes for Christmas. Saturday morning, we drove into Köln with some Georg's family and friends to tour the Dom and the city's downtown. In the afternoon we took in a small suburb Karneval parade, in costume, where we shouted "Alaf!" to greet to floats, "Kamelle!" to request candies, and "Streussia!" for flowers. By the end of the parade, Mom and I had a huge bag of candy and a hand-full of tulips and roses. Afterwards, we had tea and cake at his Aunt's house. Everyone went to the local pub for Kölsch (Köln's beer) and dancing around 6pm (this isn't even considered early!) The younger generation traveled further into the city for crazier partying, but Georg and I called it a night around 10pm.
A quick tour of the Köln's downtown.
It's parade time!! (L to R: a crashtest dummy [Mark, cousin], Me the bear, an advertisement board [Claudia, cousin], a clown [Anni, Georg's sister], and a tomato [Lisa, family friend]).
On Sunday morning, following the typical German breakfast of buns and cheese/jam, we jumped back into our face paint and costumes for a bigger (albeit small) parade in Köln's city centre. It is tradition for family/friends to meet at the same location along the parade route every year, so that
1) friends know where to find you should they want to visit, or
2) friends in the parade can gift you flowers and special treats (large choc. bars, unique coloured roses, etc.).
This parade had over 100 floats and lasted 4 hours! Friends pulled out their accordions, drums and tambourines to jam together on the street, all ages wore costumes, there was shouting and dancing and singing the entire time... We didn't stay until the end, but the musical atmosphere and excitement of the Kölnians was addicting.
Zoo animals at the larger parade in Köln (L to R: Georg the monkey, Mark the tiger and Siobhan the dancing bear).
More of our kind....
Today is Rosen Montag (Rose Monday), the day for the Köln's largest, craziest parade. Supposedly, you must get to your standing spot on the street hours in advance and seats in the bleachers set up along the parade route must be bought months before. This is a professional parade, consisting of Karneval "groups" who have a lot of money to buy things to throw to the crowd. Needless to say, we are not attending, but are spending a quiet day at home before the work-week begins again tomorrow.
Really, the question is now...what to be next year???
Thursday, March 03, 2011
I Am sterdam
My friend Kira, and her sister Jada, came to visit with me for 4 days last weekend. My first visitors in the 5 months I have been in Germany!
The highlight of their visit was a 2-day trip to Amsterdam...the city of bought love and euphoric experience! Kira, Jada, Georg, and I wandered the canals of the Red Light District, visited the Anne Frank House (Finally!), admired the tall, skinny buildings, marveled at the thousands of bikes in the city, and paid 55€ to park for 24 hours. We also drove up to the North Sea, where it was a very rainy and windy!
Due to the rainy weather, we spent all of Sunday snuggled in our pyjamas, drinking tea, and making a 2000-piece puzzle. The 3 of us (along with some minor assistance from Georg) completed the puzzle in a little more than 12 hours!
Bicycles along the canals.
Kira and I in the Red Light District.
A windy afternoon at the North Sea.
Our 2000-piece completed puzzle!
The highlight of their visit was a 2-day trip to Amsterdam...the city of bought love and euphoric experience! Kira, Jada, Georg, and I wandered the canals of the Red Light District, visited the Anne Frank House (Finally!), admired the tall, skinny buildings, marveled at the thousands of bikes in the city, and paid 55€ to park for 24 hours. We also drove up to the North Sea, where it was a very rainy and windy!
Due to the rainy weather, we spent all of Sunday snuggled in our pyjamas, drinking tea, and making a 2000-piece puzzle. The 3 of us (along with some minor assistance from Georg) completed the puzzle in a little more than 12 hours!
Bicycles along the canals.
Kira and I in the Red Light District.
A windy afternoon at the North Sea.
Our 2000-piece completed puzzle!