Seriously? Only in Germany!

Yesterday was my first day back in Munich so I of course had to make some major progress in the Christmas Market marathon. Sadly I only hit 3 for the day, but it was absolutely freezing outside so cut me some slack! We saw the Muenchner Freiheit one, the Residence one, and the Medieval one. In case you are curious the Medieval one had the best food!! AND they had schneeballs (the dessert I have been dreaming of since my trip to Germany in High School!) The dark chocolate covered one was great both times I ate it (no I did not get two, it was the same one but in two separate attempts).

Anyway the best part of the day was something that could only happen in Germany. I still feel like it is a test and someone is collecting data for an experiment on social behavior. Ok, so the story goes like this. There is this ceramics stand that I had seen 2 weeks ago at one of the markets and I just loved the woman's items. I have been thinking about them for the past two weeks and so I dragged Silvia there to validate my opinion. Well, after much deliberation I decided which items to buy, and when I asked if she accepted cards the woman said no. But then she asked if I have a German bank account. I said yes and so she told me I could just transfer the money into her account. So basically what happened is that she wrote down her bank info so that when I got home I could transfer the money and all she asked from me was my address. I walked away from the stand with my ceramics and this woman's trust that I was a good person. I know people who don't trust their friends that much and she let me make up any name with the promise of transferring money at a later date and walk away with the goods?! Only here, only Germany!

9 Pubs in 2 Days, Not a Bad Average

I spent last weekend in beautiful Galway. Ireland, which I had only known as being a rainy and mostly cloudy place, actually turned out to be the perfect host for our weekend trip. It was perfectly sunny the entire weekend, cold but sunny.

We left Dublin and drove the 2 hours to Galway the first night and after checking into the hostel we, of course, headed to the first pub. There I not only got to try a baby Guinness (Kahlua and Baileys, so it looks like a mini glass of Guinness) but I even got proposed to. Unfortunately the kid was drunk enough to not notice he had used the same line when bumping into my friend at the bar. My advice for him was one proposal per bar per night. We ended up talking with him and his friend (who we lovingly referred to as Stripey based on his clothing selection) until the pub closed. Oh side note: I love the pubs in Ireland, they are so cosy and often are these massive establishments with great nooks and wooden beams. It relaxes you just by walking inside one. Anyway after the bar we headed to Supermac's (McDonalds equivalent) with the rest of the city. That is where we saw Stripey again.

Next day was got up and went for my first Irish breakfast. It wasn't bad, bacon sausage, black and white pudding (similar to sausage patties) beans, toast . . . Then we just wandered in the beautiful sun all over. Saw a church band playing to raise money, a fresh and I mean FRESH market (dirt still on the carrots), the bay, and more. Then to cool off we hit another pub for a Baileys and coffee. From there the pub crawl continued. At the next place we experienced an impromptu flute and drum performance and they were fantastic! Then at the next pub we saw our old friend Stripey. Surprisingly enough he didn't seem to recognize us. Sorry to say, but it was no big loss for us.

That night for dinner I had my first Shepherds Pie and it was quite good. Of course it came with 3 different types of potatoes. We are in Ireland don't forget. Then we hit a bunch more pubs (a total of 8 by this point).

On Sunday we drove back via the Cliffs of Moher. We stopped at another pub for breakfast and while to food left much to be desired we did solve the question of where all the cute guys in Ireland are. They are in a pub in a small city just outside of Galway.

After stopping for lots of pictures on the way we finally made it to the Cliffs of Moher. They were so impressive. Straight drop into the ocean. It was breathtaking. Then at dinner we were able to experience the perfect sunset in combination with utter insanity, i.e. surfers. Not only was it sunset, but the air temperature was below freezing and they were surfing with no beach, but just massive rocks to break their fall. Crazy Irish, I love you but you're crazy.

Christkindlmärkte Definitely Beat Oktoberfest

Last night I went to my very first of the long awaited Christkindlmärkte (Christmas Markets) with Kornelia and Hannes! There I had my first Gluhwein (mulled wine) which is sold at every single food related stand. It doesn't matter if the stand sells wurst, kebabs, flammbrot, or anything else, they will all without a doubt sell Gluhwein. It was pretty good too. For example it made me not realize for about 30 minutes that I couldn't feel my toes. Impressive.

I think the markets held up to expectation and I only went to 2 of them yesterday. Lots of lights and Christmas trees and fun stuff to buy and Gluhwein and lots of fantastic food. (Oh did I mention that roasted chestnuts are amazing? Who knew?!) I still have dozens more markets to see in Munich and then all the others in the rest of Germany. That might make for one very busy week between returning from Dublin and Christmas. Even more worrisome is the amount of Gluhwein I would be expected to drink if I went to that many markets. Ok, I'll save some for next year.

Dublin + Fabienne = An Awesome Weekend

Dublin has been fun and I have managed to rope some friends into going out a few times, but it is so much better when I have a good friend visiting. Well unfortunately the weather was against me having a friend in town and wanted to make sure we were as inconvenienced as possible.

The first night we didn't let the cold stop us. And after walking down O'Connell Street and taking some amazing pictures (ok, so Fabienne took them, but I was there) of some of the sites we happened upon this Indonesian restaurant (Chameleon) and actually managed to get a table. The food was amazing! We got this dinner for two which consists of 7 different dishes so you get to try several things. Then we also had to get dessert (mince meat pies and a brownie with ice cream to die for).

The next day was ruled by the weather. So we made it a shopping day and went out to this amazing mall in Dundrum. We were there for a long time and managed to see less than 10% I'd guess. I may have to head out there again sometime soon! Then by the time we got back to the apartment and grabbed some dinner the weather had taken a drastic turn and was even more rainy and windy. So we decided to get up early today and see some sights, which we did in the pouring rain and wind! We walked back to Temple Bar area and found one little place open for a scone and coffee. Then I had the unfortunate task of taking Fabienne back to the hotel so she could catch her shuttle to the airport. I was hoping I could make her miss her flight and force her stay, but since I know I get to see her again in less than 4 weeks it was just see you soon and not good bye. (I am going to spend Christmas with Fabienne and her family in Zurich!) I think Fabienne and I will have to meet here again in the summer sometime and see Dublin the right way (i.e. less rain and wind).

One Part Europe, One Part US

I've discovered that Dublin is not only physically half way between the US and mainland Europe, but is also culturally and personality half way between the two. The architecture and pace of life are very much like the rest of Europe, but the people, stores, food, and bar scene are very much like the states. I like the mix. It's like the best of both worlds, plus they speak English!!

I've been here almost a week and it has been great. I am staying in a great apartment in the IFSC which is also where the office is located. Work has been good, but very busy. The colleagues here are so much fun and since the office is small we can have fun all together. The office mentality here is more like in the states, so it is a nice reminder of home.

It happened and I was there, in person, in Ireland, in a pub, to experience the soccer game of the decade (at least in Ireland). It was a great night. We went to a pub on (which is actually a microbrewery so I didn't drink a Guinness) and watched the Ireland/France World Cup qualifying game. It was so cool to be in a crowded pub with all the Irish fans cheering and yelling and drinking. While I will say that they in fact were robbed, I would however like to put the following question out there too: what if the situation was exactly switched and France had been the underdogs? Then what would everyone think? Huh?

Ok, then on Thursday night I got to see more of Dublin. We had dinner at this place called Gallagher's Boxty House where I had a corned beef and cabbage botxy. It was delicious. So a boxty is like a potato tortilla which is then filled with different things. They are great and quite Irish. Then we wandered down in the Temple Bar area and even stopped in The Temple Bar to listen to these guys preform. It was a nice taste of home.

Then last night we headed to the Temple Bar area again for dinner and then to a play called The Clean House. It was in this tiny theater and the play was fantastic!! If you ever see it showing anywhere you should see it. It is really funny and also, well, I'll just let you find out. Then on our way to a few pubs we saw the greatest street scam, well not a scam, but impossible challenge. This guy had a bike but had reversed the handlebars so that when you turned them left the bike went right and vice versa. So he charged 4 euros for 4 attempts to ride it about 7 feet. So we got a bunch of free entertainment watching cocky guys fall over on a bike. It was one of the best things I've seen in a long time. Then we hit up one pub which was basically like a living room from the 60's filled with groups from each of the possible bar outing scenarios. There was the group of 60 year old guys drinking Guinness, the table with the young college kids, the table that was obviously the family outing with the new in-law, the one lone guy trying to find someone to sit in the empty bar stool next to him, the couple on their first date, and the table of regulars. Quintessential. Afterwards we went to a place called Dakota, which was a lot like the Bubble Lounge in San Francisco but more spacious and with better music. I will absolutely go back.

Today I joined a colleague and went to the Francis Bacon exhibit at the Hugh Lane gallery. Oh and for the record, almost all museums in the city are free. Then we walked around more of the city and I had my first Guinness in Ireland. They were right, it is better in Ireland.

It Was Cosy . . .

The rule, as dictated by my co-conspiriters, was that "what happens in Amsterdam stays in Amsterdam" but since none of them read this, then I can tell about my trip and what I did while in Amsterdam. I will not incriminate anyone nor will I comment on how anyone else spent their time. Here is MY trip to Amsterdam . . .

I went with a group of 10 co-workers (I know that sounds crazy, but they are actually a great group to travel with because everyone has different interests so you just join the group who interests you the most). We spent a weekend there and while the weather was not ideal, I still had a great time. The food was great. I found an American bakery and filled up on muffins, cookies, and my coworkers got brownies. I also ate Dutch pancakes and their traditional fried dough balls (they were like yeast donuts but with sort of a sourdough, stretchy consistency), but didn't get a chance to try the bitterballen which are fried meatballs. I went to the Rijks Museum, the Anne Frank house, toured the canals, walked all over, and ate (did I mention that?).

Amsterdam really is a beautiful city. The canals are fun and the architecture is fantastic. Every building on every street is gorgeous. It very much reminded me of San Francisco, from the architecture and the laid back people, to the food, and even the weather. I would definitely go back to Amsterdam, but maybe next time I'll go in the summer.

It's Like Home, Only More Irish

Well, I made my first short trip to Dublin last week for work and I think my next 5 weeks there will be very good. I knew it would work when after I stepped out of my hotel I ran into a bagel shop which was next door to another bagel place. Next to that was an organic grocery store, then a Starbucks, a salad shop, a sandwich place called O'Briens, then about 6 more coffee shops (including another Starbucks), 3 more bagel/sandwich shops, and then the office. Dublin, I think this will work very well, until my pants stop fitting . . .

Hotel Beth Needs an Upgrade

Interesting how my lack of posting could imply two totally opposite situations (nothing happening vs. too much happening). Luckily this pause is for the better of the two reasons. My mom and Molly have been in town for the past 2 weeks and we have been busy adventuring (well, they were adventuring, I was still working). It was a great visit, but it just went too quickly!!

They went all over Bavaria including Neuschwanstein castle and also down to Salzburg. Last weekend we all went on an adventure together to Straubing and then Nurnberg. What do you mean you haven't heard of Straubing?! Just another fault in the American school systems I guess. Ok ok, I'm absolutely kidding. In the train on the way, a guy asked us if he could join us on our Bavaria ticket (since you can take up to 5 people for the same price) and paid us. Then he talked the whole way there. Which in the end was a really good thing because the track was closed right before our stop so we had to switch to a bus, but of course this announcement was only made in German and I am definitely not that fluent yet. So a big thank you to Christoph for helping us make it to Straubing and for sharing his brownies.

We went to Straubing in hopes of seeing the "Dance with the Devil" display. Apparently this "artist" created this big display in the city center with 1,500 garden gnomes all making the Nazi salute. But of course we get all the way there only to discover that the display was taken down the Monday before. Oh well, at least we now know where to get the best Doner in Bavaria.

Then we went to Nurnberg which is the second largest city in Bavaria and it the lebkuchen capital of the planet. I LOVED Nurnberg. Every corner had a lebkuchen shop! I definitely need to go back there to see the rest of the city. It is a great mix between a medieval city and Munich. Oh and we found the best little chocolate shop where you can drink all sorts of amazing hot chocolates! And one of my favorite things in the city was the Marriage merry-go-round. It is actually a fountain/statue with what I am guessing is the pitfalls of marriage or something. I'll have to post pictures as it is indescribable.

Then before Mom and Molly left yesterday we did Christmas. So I get to play with my gifts for an extra 2 months! It was great. What can I say, having your mom around is always great. For example I discovered a bag of Halloween candy this morning (on Halloween) that she had hidden for me. Oh how I love peanut butter and chocolate (and my mom!).

Next week is the week of travel for me so hopefully I'll have some more good stories soon!

He Just Gave Up . . .

I don't know why I love this story as much as I do but, well . . . I just do. So today I got a call from my internet provider. The guy called and when I picked up and said, "hello" he said, "Oh do you speak English?" and I of course said "yes." Now at this point there was not an audible sigh, but I could actually feel the blood drain from his face. So he started off well, saying that he was from Alice and then asked if I had a handy (aka cell phone) and then proceeded to begin a little spiel about switching. However after about 2 sentences (for the record his English was very good and I was totally following) all of a sudden he just paused and then hung up! He actually hung up on me in the middle of his pitch. I couldn't believe it. All I could do was laugh. I mean he was doing so well and everything. Oh well, maybe tomorrow I'll get a telemarketer who let's me actually hang up on him.

Schützen-Festhalle (Again)

I had the fantastic opportunity to return to the Schützen-Festhalle tent at the Wiesn again today. I was invited by a colleague from the German OE to join him and some other reinsurance guys at the tent, so well, of course I joined. It was much the same as the last time except that I got to experience the reason behind the name Schützen. One of the guys is friends with the owner of the tent, so we got to go to the back of the tent and do some Schützen (translation: shooting). So apparently the name of the tent has to do with the relationship with a shooting club and the members of the club can enter the tent anytime they want and use the air-gun shooting range in the back. We had lessons with these two old German guys and then got to shoot. I can proudly say that not only did I hit the target all 5 times, but I actually scored quite well. We even got certificates, pins, and our shooting strip. What can I say, just when I think the Wiesn can't get better, it goes and has a private shooting range in the back where I don't make a fool out of myself. Oh Munich . . .

So Much to Say (i.e. Amanda, Vanessa, Italy, and Oktoberfest)

Wow, I just realized how long it has been since I have really written a full update. The crazy part is that my lack of posting is not a result of nothing going on, but in fact just the opposite is true. A little over 2 weeks ago my wonderful friends Amanda and Vanessa flew into Munich to visit me. Let's just say that the stories I could write about these last 2 weeks could easily provide the plot for about 6 different movies. We've got comedy, action, romance, but luckily no drama. Where to start . . . ?

Well let's just do this chronologically. Basically the best part is Vanessa's story. Now I don't think I can do this totally unbelievable, movie-perfect turn of events the justice it deserves in this format. Therefore my advice is to either ask her about her epic story, or ask me the next time you see me in person. (Quick recap: 30th birthday, airplane boy, rental cars, midnight driving, cop, Mannheim, . . . )

Once the girls got back from Vanessa's adventure it was time for us all to go on our next adventure. First tid-bit of potentially helpful information I will pass along is that you can't take a rental car from most Western European countries into Croatia. This could be helpful for you to know, like it would have been helpful for us to know. But I guess the consolation is that instead we just drove to Verona and Venice. (Nice alternative, right?) Verona provided good wine, nice views, a dog named Carlos (at least we decided that), and Juliet's balcony just to name a few. Now this might just be me, but I find it a bit odd that thousands of people (yes I acknowledge I was one of them) go to a spot where a fictional character supposedly lived. Best part is that rubbing the Juliet statue's right breast is supposed to bring a new lover, so we got to watch not only this old woman and this teenage boy with bright red cheeks molest a statue. (I'll show you the pictures later.) No matter how fun it was, we only stayed in Verona for half the day because Venice was waiting.

In Venice we became quite aware of someone smiling down on us, because Amanda was able to secure for us a very nice hotel for a fantastic price. They went out of their way for us, it was amazing. I was not only a fan of the concierge because he saved us from sleeping in the car, but because he paints a beautiful picture (in an Italian accent). When we asked about Venice he quickly summed up for us what Venice has become. And I quote "Venice is like Disneyland." Wow, was he right. Now for the record I like Disneyland and this is not a criticism, but it is a very astute observation and analogy. Venice is amazing and somewhere everyone needs to see before they die. The canals are fun and trying not to get lost is also fun. But if you don't like tourists or souvenir shops then you may want to go during the off season, during the week, on the southwest side of the island. Just a heads up.

We stayed in Venice for the entire day and then the next day headed for home. On the way we stopped in this little town called Soave where the great wince comes from. It was a quite little town, but had a fantastic old walled-in medieval city center. Then just outside of Munich we had to stop for gas and of course there was a gas station, a McDonalds, Burger King, and a Subway. It was like being home again. So far I had avoided american burgers joints here in Europe, but we were hungry and this was the coolest McDonalds was the coolest one ever. It had outdoor seating with heat lamps, huge outdoor play area, indoor play area with basketball hoop, a McCafe, a fireplace, an upstairs area with video games, and then a toilet that cost 50 cents. What is the deal McDonalds? If you hadn't had such a great bagel sandwich I would have been very upset.

The last day both girls were here in Munich was the first day of Oktoberfest. So of course we had to go. It was interesting, really just a huge carnival with the same rides over and over, and tons of the same food options over and over. Then of course there are all the drunk people throwing up, and falling on you, and being wheeled out on a gurney. Really brings out the best in people.

While the girls were here they allowed me to force the German lifestyle on them. We ate Bavarian twice (!), had the very traditional Munich weisswurst breakfast, and tried out 8 new restaurants. I hope they had as much fun as I did! So who's next? Oh wait, that is already decided. My mom and Molly are coming in 3 weeks. I have a lot to get done before then, because once they arrive I won't have another free weekend in Munich until Christmas day! With that being said I had better run and get some stuff accomplished!

Another Item Crossed Off the List

What do you call 2 masses of beer, half a chicken, singing "Ein Prosit" about 20 times, several thousand drunk people, and more lederhosen than I care to mention? That's right, Weisn (aka Oktoberfest)!! I had the chance to actually go to tent tonight at Oktoberfest. It was great. We sat, drank, ate, sang, and (I personally) did some major people watching. Now that I've been I think I can cross it off my list, but it really was quite the experience. Lots of drunk discussions and English pop songs with the cheapest rights always lead to a good night, right?! Hopefully I'll be able to post some picture later, but for now just know that I have basically just experienced the world's largest carnival/beer drinking event and made it home successfully in one piece! Come join me next year!

Munich and I Are Going on a Break

At work today they asked me to help out during the renewal season in our Dublin office, and of course I said yes. For 5 weeks, from November 16 until December 18, I will be working in Dublin! Hopefully I will be able to come home on some of the weekends since it will be Christmas Market season here in Germany, but if anyone wants to meet me in Dublin during that time I will have an apartment to myself. This is just one more advantage to being childless and single! And it seems like I just keep jumping from one beer capital to another. Interesting . . .

5 Days and 1 Bottle of Sunscreen (aka Sardinia)

That's right, in 5 days I used almost an entire "Urlaubs-Grosse" (vacation sized) bottle of SPF 30 sunscreen, but I managed to make it with only a 1st degree sunburn. I thought that wasn't too bad for 5 days on the beach in Sardinia.

I was with 4 friends on the northern coast of Sardinia for the past 5 days. The parents of my Italian friend own a sumer house near Porto Pollo (basically the kite surfing capital of the world) and we stayed there, about a 20 minute walk from the beach. The weather was perfect for all 5 days (hot and not a cloud in sight) and at only point while floating in the water I was looking up and could only see bright blue. I have never experienced that before and it was so cool.

I don't have much to tell since basically we laid on the beach and read and went swimming in the Mediterranean sea for 5 days. Then at night we went out for a fantastic dinner at some restaurant and then saw where the night took us. Once it was to a party on the beach with the rest of the entire island. Another night it was the city's street fair with all handmade items. One night for dinner we went to a restaurant where basically you get what they give you, and Good Lord is it good. We ate and ate and ate, and each thing was fantastic. Everything was traditional Sardinian food (which surprisingly doesn't include much seafood) including the pork, which I have to admit was amazing even though I am not a big pork fan. This place was one of the best dining experiences I have ever had. It is worth a trip to Sardinia just for this place. I could talk about the food for days.

One of the days we took a day long boat tour of the northern islands. We stopped at a few beaches and swam and also stopped in the middle of the Mediterranean at one point and jumped off the boat for a swim.

In general, the most unnerving thing about the beach was that I was without a doubt the whitest person there, probably the whitest on the entire island. It was crazy! Buts it is nice to know that I won't have a leather couch for a face at 35 like most of them. As far as the locals go, the one nice things is that for every woman on the beach that made me self-conscious about my body there were 2 others that made me feel good about myself.

Oh and the random event of the trip: in the bar on the beach we met an ex-Navy guy who retired in Sardinia who has actually been to not only Nebraska, but to a Huskers football game! I think he was more excited about this than I was. He kept talking about how nice everyone was and then even called his brother in the states to tell him he had met a girl from Nebraska. Just goes to show how great we must be when we leave that kind of lasting impression!!

This was without a doubt 5 of the most relaxing days of my life. And truth be told I didn't know the beaches in Italy were this beautiful. It reminds me of Greece, water so beautiful you would think it was fake. I was hard to not "accidentally" miss my flight.

Kaufbeuren, Tempting . . .

Yesterday the chief actuary of Allianz Re invited the department out to his house in Kaufbeuren for a garden party and city tour. Apparently the universe wants everyone to move there because the day was absolute perfection. If it wasn't a one and a half hour drive from Munich I would be looking for a house out there right now.

We arrived at his beautiful home in the mid-afternoon and proceeded on our tour of the city. Let me just say that a city is so much more interesting when you know the history and have a private tour! It was another medieval city with the remnants of the city wall and a small chapel that was built something like 800 years ago! Just amazing. Then we proceeded back to his house and had Kaffee und Kuche (it is a tradition in German households to have coffee and cakes at 4 pm everyday. Unfortunately/fortunately this doesn't happen at work!) I could definitely get used to that though!

Then we sat and talked and watched the kids play and then they announced dinner was ready. Dinner?! I didn't know this was going to be part of the day and man was it a good part of the day. There was everything from quiche Lorraine, summer salad, shrimp, salmon wraps, and more. It was fantastic. Then we sat and drank and talked until it was time for dessert. Just when I thought I couldn't eat another crumb out came the tiramisu and Linzer torte. Well you can't say no to either of those so of course I had to try both. (I mean come on, I have to really experience the culture. Food and all . . .)

I think I was finally back in my apartment by 2 am, so I would have to say the day was a success. Now if only I could have a house like Marcus's in a city like Munich for a price like in Nebraska with weather like San Francisco. And while I'm wishing, I'd like to speak German better also.

Medieval Festivals in Germany Make Sense (History Wise)

Today I met my colleague Kornelia and her boyfriend in this little historic German city called Schongau. The city sits on the top of hill and still has the historical wall from the middle ages around it. They were having a Medieval festival in the city center and it had all the trimmings. Everything from people in full out costumes, lots of Bavarian food, wooden swords, massages, and of course "witch-oil" for all your witch-protection needs.

Then we went to the lake and laid there for a while in the sun before having an eiscafe, which is coffee with a scoop of ice cream in it. (It is just as good as you think it is!) I am so excited that Kornelia and her boyfriend will finally be moving to Munich next month. This way our adventures will be easier to organize and we can even play some Settlers of Catan!

Well, That's a First

I can't remember the last time I went to a romantic comedy with a group that consisted of any guys at all, but tonight I went to see The Proposal with not just one, but 4 guys. In fact, I was the only girl. The best part was that they actually liked it so I didn't feel too self-conscious about having suggested the movie. Luckily at our standard post-movie bar I got some reinforcement in the female sense so I could more easily defend our gender! Then we proceeded to plan a group trip to Amsterdam in October. All in all I have to say it was a very productive night.

Hiking Like the Germans Do . . .

That means: getting up at the same time on a Saturday morning as I do on a work day, hiking up steep ravines and down poorly constructed paths, taking a 9, 7, 5, and 1 year old, and doing all of this for 6 hours.

The CRO department organized a hike at Hoellentalklamm yesterday. It actually ended up being an Actuarial department hike with a couple others from the CRO department. The hike took place in the mountains right outside Garmisch-Partenkirchen which is where the Winter Olympics took place in 1936. The Hoellentalklamm itself is this amazing ravine that you hike through to get to the base of the Zugspitze which is Germany's highest mountain.

We only made it to a height of t 1,387 meters, but based on the number of times we went up and then down and then up and then down on the path I am pretty sure we hiked up at least 2,ooo meters. The day was great and the waterfalls, caves, forests, and snow were all very impressive. (Sorry Yosemite, this place may have you beat.) We stopped at the hut that was 1,387 meters up and had lunch and took a bit of a break before hiking back down using the alternative route.

Overall it might just be one of the most impressive hikes I have ever been on. And of course I didn't bring my camera, but I will try to get pictures from one of my co-workers so you don't all think I am a liar. I promise, it was one of those places that helps me understand why the Germans are so serious about hiking and go every weekend.

Oh and one of the best parts of the day was the car ride to and from the hike. I rode with one of my co-workers and we got to do about 140 MPH on the Autobahn. That will never get old. I might just be willing to pay the 1,000 euros and spend the hours it would take just to get my license so I can drive that fast myself. Oh speed, why are you so much fun?

Adventures in Regensburg

Yesterday I went with 5 friend to Regensburg in Southern Germany. It was a perfect day with some wonderful German highlights. Regensburg was and is a very important medieval city. It's history and some of it's buildings go back to ancient Roman times. The Dom was beautiful and the Stone Bridge was built in 1146! I could keep listing the sites all day, so I'll stop, but I'd recommend researching the city in all the free time I am sure everyone has.

While there I ate one of the famous Regensburg sausages. (Sorry, but it tasted just like all the others) but the old building where they make them is really cool. Plus you know they must be good when a place has 2 things on the menu (sausages in a roll and sausages on sauerkraut) and still has a line out the door. Regensburg also has a gelateria that has not just one but two kinds of cinnamon gelato! Heaven!

Oddly enough one of the best parts of the trip was the train ride home. The train was packed and we wanted to sit together so we just went to the 1st class section and sat down. Well, it was empty and there weren't any other seats. So our plan was to just speak English when the ticket lady came by and pretend we didn't know that we couldn't sit there. Anyway after all the scheming she didn't even say anything when she checked our tickets so we had a very comfortable ride back. Well, that was until the character from a reality show appeared. I swear I thought we were on candid camera or something. Here's what happened. This probably 55-60 year old guy walked by sporting what I can only describe as terry cloth shorts which were so short that you could see the pockets sticking out of the bottom. They were white, horrifyingly short, and he wore a belt with them. And of course he hadn't seen a gym since Regan was president. Not so surprisingly he found a lot of reasons to walk back and forth. Every time requiring me to try to keep from falling out of my seat laughing. I only wish I could have gotten a picture. So far this is my first regret from my time in Germany.

Let The Comparisons Begin

I made it through my first trip back to the states and I didn't have to force myself back on the plane, so I guess that means I really do like it here. My trip was great, quick and busy, but great. I got to see lots of people, bought a bunch of groceries to take back, and ate lots of burgers, BBQ, frozen yogurt, and Mexican food. Plus I got to tell the same stories 34 times and answer the same questions 56 times. Now I officially know who does and who doesn't read the blog. Not that I expect anyone to read it, but now I know who my audience is!

One of my favorite parts is that I couldn't understand one of the first Americans I spoke with when I landed in Chicago. Poor guy at the bagel shop in the airport was struggling to tell me the total by showing me the receipt and I was so tired that I couldn't figure out why he kept pointing to the receipt. Oh America. . .

My other favorite part was that my name was on the display at Fireman's Fund where they welcome visitors. Made me feel quite special even though they didn't trust me enough to let me walk around unescorted.

Overall I loved my time home. Helped me remember how much I both love and hate driving, how much I miss the Food Network, how much I miss being able to small talk with clerks, and just how fat we Americans really are. Sorry but it's true. More on that later.

Look Out USA

It's finally here. My trip to the states is tomorrow! I will arrive in Omaha on Wednesday night (July 8th) and stay through Tuesday noon (July 14th). Then I'm off to Seattle until Thursday night (July 16th) when I head to San Francisco until Saturday night (July 18). If anyone would like to get ahold of me while I'm in the states you can call me on my old cell phone 402-305-1367. I hope to see as many of you as I can, so let me know when you're available!

Krista & Kellie kommen nach Muenchen!

The last 2 weeks were amazing!  Kellie and Krista came to visit me and we had a blast. (At least I did.  Hopefully they feel the same!) I got to show them around Munich, we all went to Zurich, and then I sent them on a few trips without me.  We "experienced" Bavarian food, traveled, shopped, and ate lots of gelato.  

The second weekend they were here we went to Zurich to visit our friend Fabienne.  It was so much fun to take the train with friends!  Zurich was great and it absolutely lived up to it's reputation for being expensive, having great shopping, and being the chocolate mecca of the world.  There are two key shops for chocolate in Zurich, one is Merkur and the other is Sprungli (of Lindt & Sprungli).  I could live in these shops! Oh and the speciality at Sprungli are the Luxemburgerli which are little confections that look like tiny hamburgers, but taste like heaven!  You all have to come and visit me just so we can go to Zurich to get one.  It will be worth it, I promise.

Also while in Switzerland we spent a day at this great little city called Luzern.  It is about 45 minutes from Zurich and so beautiful.  We did some great shopping and even got Kellie an "European haircut."  Great souvenir, right?   This little city would be my top recommendation right now for honeymoon location.  

We also managed to experience 2 Swiss bachelor parties and a couple German ones too!  Oh and we discovered this Italian snack called Piadinas which is basically an Italian quesadilla.  So good!  The girls even came twice to have lunch with me at work in the canteen.  I felt like the little kid showing their parents their classroom at school.  "Here's where I get coffee.  Here's where I eat lunch. Here's my desk. Here's my window."  So sad, but I loved every second of it!

All in all I am pretty sure that they both need to move back here so we can all learn German together while teaching these Germans a few things!  

I Think That Finishes Off Austria

Since we had Monday off I figured I had better utilize the long weekend, so I headed to Salzburg.  It was the cheapest option and the easiest, so I figured why not.  I think 2 days was the right amount of time, especially since everyone else had plans already so I did it alone.  

Luckily at the same time that I have become overconfident in my knowledge of the public transportation system I have not lost my obsessive compulsive need to be on time which causes me to constantly overcompensate.  With that being said, I did not miss my train on the way there.

The trip was nice, but I think Vienna wins the Austria's best city contest.  Although one of the most interesting thing about Salzburg is that I heard more English being spoken there than I do in LA.  Not kidding.  

Oh and Salzburg helped me learn a bit more about myself too:  I don't really like most fountains.  The image of men and horses with water spraying out of their noses/mouths is just not appealing.  

Germans are Adorable

I saw the cutest thing on the way to work this morning.  So for the past couple of mornings I have seen this father and his son on my way to work.  The little boy is probably 2 years old and they walk together to the preschool near my office.  This alone is very adorable, but today they managed to surpass their standard cuteness.  The little boy was wearing a shirt which said "50% Mamma, 50% Papa, 100% FC Bayern Fan."  I love it!!

Sorry San Diego, You've Been Replaced

Until Thursday afternoon I thought I wanted to retire in San Diego, but after laying eyes on Lake Como I now know I want to retire there in Italy. (Plus, if it's good enough for George Clooney, then I imagine it's good enough for me)  

Last Thursday morning three friends and I left from Munich to drive to Italy.  Within 5 hours we managed to visit 5 countries!  Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Italy.  Not too bad.  We got to drive through the Alps too.  Once we got into Italy we drove through Como which is this gorgeous town on, appropriately, Lake Como.  I always thought maybe the movies and photos lied and that Italy can't really be that beautiful, but it is.  Then we arrived at my friend's apartment in Monza.  Her parents spend most of the time in Southern Italy so we had their 4 bedroom apartment with a gorgeous view all to ourselves.  And that night I had my very first REAL Italian pizza.  (Of course I announced this at the table!)

The second day we took the train to Genova which is on the sea.  We spent the day walking, shopping, drinking espresso, and eating gelato.  It was really hot, so we had to cool down somehow!  Oh and at the Piazza  de Ferrari I saw a guy wearing a Nebraska shirt.  We're everywhere.  Genova is a great city but has the most narrow streets, which help me understand why the Italians are all so skinny.  If anyone was at all overweight they wouldn't fit down the street to their house.  

The next day we took the train to Milan.  Surprise surprise, we did lots of shopping there.  During which we ran into a large demonstration which was taking place in the streets.  There had to be thousands of people parading with signs and singing/rapping.  We also visited a few of the cathedrals and other sites.  More espresso and gelato.  It is a nice city, but so far not on the top of my list.  

Then the last day we toured Monza (and no, we didn't go to the Formula One track, so don't ask).  It is a beautiful city.  We even came across a 10k that was taking place that morning.  Oh and I had my first cannoli.  Not bad, but I was told it is different from the traditional cannoli which is from Sicily, so I'll have to go there so that I can compare.  The Dom in Monza contains the Iron Crown of Lombardy which is a crown that supposedly contains a nail from the cross.  Very interesting.  This weekend there also happened to be a large rose garden open in the city park.  I used up most of my camera's battery in that garden.  After that we had to head back to the apartment and try to fit all of the stuff we brought and bought back into the car.  Luckily we managed.  The trip home was equally impressive: 5 countries again, 97 degrees, snow, rain, mountains, lakes, lots waterfalls, and some of the longest tunnels ever!  

It was a fantastic trip.  I even began to appreciate the little bit of German that I can speak, because I was very aware that I speak NO Italian (and grazie, prego, uno, and due don't count).  I will absolutely be returning to Italy as much as I can.  I only visited 4 Italian cities, I have at least 20 to go.  

I'll write more when I remember it.  I'm a little low on sleep right now . . . 

Italy Here I Come . . .

Well, I leave tomorrow with 3 friends to drive through Italy for 4 days.  One of the girls is from Milan so we have a free place to stay for the whole weekend.  I should probably warn my credit card people about the increase in activity over the next couple of days.  I'll write all about it when I get back next week.

Ich Spreche Deutsch

Well, not yet, but I did go to my first German lesson today.  I tested into the second level and joined a class of 4 other guys.  One guy from Italy, one guy from Portugal, one guy from Spain, and one guy from Canada.  It was pretty challenging, but I guess that will just make me work harder.  I think aside from the homework and general struggle to speak, it will be good.  The really nice thing is that the school is 2 blocks from my apartment and my gym is one and a half blocks from my apartment in the same direction, so I have no excuse on Mondays and Wednesdays for not going to German class for 1.5 hours and then stopping at the gym for a while on my way home.  I think this might just work . . . 

I'm Hooked

I officially know the German food item I will miss when I move back to the US.  They  are called Erdnuss Locken and I am pretty sure they have some form of crack in them because I can't stop eating them.  They are like Pirate's Booty except peanut flavored.  Interestingly enough, for a culture which claims to hate peanut butter, they did  fantastic job of creating the greatest peanut snack ever!  I now have renewed faith that I will be able to convert them to peanut butter lovers (or at least appreciators). Next time I am back in the states I am filling my suitcase with peanut butter items!  

Also, I have finally settled on the winner of the best bakery prize (at least for pretzels and rolls). And the title goes to Rischart!  I'm sure people will disagree with me, but this is how it is.  

Let the Corruption Begin

Last Thursday I dragged a group of my co-workers to "I Love You Man" at the English Cinema.  It was hilarious!  Luckily everyone who came enjoyed the movie and wasn't too offended.  We ate at this wonderful Indian restaurant before hand and then had a drink after.  These Germans know how to make a night of everything.  My favorite part was the 2 or 3 times where I was the only one in the theater laughing as I am guessing I was the only native English speaker there.

Apparently I didn't alienate anyone too much because a couple of my coworkers want to see the new Wolverine movie and they nominated me to organize it.  I guess I am officially the "movie organizer" of the actuarial department now.  (I suppose there are worse things to be know as.)

I HAVE A CELL PHONE!!!

I finally got a cell phone!  It was quite refreshing to be without a phone for 5 weeks, but now I must rejoin society.  My number (when calling from the US) would be 0049 017 67859 7648.   Call or text me!!

A New Home

It's been a couple weeks since I've written but that's because I finally moved into my apartment!   I got the keys and my shipment two Fridays ago and it felt like Christmas.  I was unwrapping my clothes and boxes and rediscovering both my good taste and my bad taste.  Anyway it was a great day.  I am mostly organized and loving having a place of my own.  The only downside is that the bathroom was supposed to be redone before I moved in but that didn't happen. Instead they are now going to do it while I'm in the US this summer for a week or two.  The only other downside is that I haven't had internet for the last week and a half and won't have it until Wednesday at the latest, so right now I'm at Starbucks (I know, but they are the only place still open with internet access).  Let's just say that they are not so service oriented here in Germany.  Yes that's right, the US has service that cannot be beat.  I'm surprised too!  

Also this last  week I attended 3 classes at the gym a block from my apartment and more or less followed along with the German speaking instructor.  It was a bit tough, but not too bad.  The most German thing about the gym is that there is a water station with flavors to put in your water and the option to have flat or sparkling water.  It is classic.  

Oh and my address here is now:

Wilhelmstrasse 15

D-80801 Munich, Germany

Vienna (a.k.a. The Park and Coffee House Walking Tour)

At the airport in Vienna I was asked for help at the ticket machine and I was able to help.  Score 1!

The after finishing my ice cream cone on my first go around the city another lady approached me to ask if I spoke English and after I said yes she asked if I was from Vienna.  After saying no, I was still able to give her directions to the Farmers Market she was looking for.  So while I look like I can speak English, I also look like I could live in Vienna.  Score 2!

Then 2 days later when I was eating my dinner and deciding where to go on my last day, 2 guys approached me asking if I was from Austria.  (Of course he asked in German, but I actually knew what he was saying and could answer!!)  He asked where the Kunsthaus was and while I had to tell him I wasn't from here I could tell him how to get there.  I should be getting paid for this.  Score 3!

So I was supposed to meet a friend in Vienna for the 4 day weekend, but at the last minute she wasn't able to come, so I decided since the ticket was purchased that I would just go anyway.  It was still a pretty good time.  I did a ton of walking during my trip which wasn't a problem because the weather was absolutely PERFECT all 4 days!  During my walking the first day I was able to accomplish my 1 goal of the trip: to get a hobo bag so I can stop dragging my TImbuktu bag everywhere I go like a San Franciscan.  My new bag is gorgeous!  It will be the best souvenir of any trip ever (unless I find some heavenly shoes in Italy!)  

Oh and my hotel (how could I forget to mention the spectacle which was this hotel?!) well, I don't quite know what to say, so I'll post some pictures.  Although they will have to be the g-rated version. 

My second day was a lot like the first, lots of walking and perfect weather.  The first thing I stopped at was a Holocaust memorial, which was impressive.  Then I headed for an early lunch to Cafe Sacher for the classic (and so very touristy) Sacher Torte and cappuccino.  While the service lack, well everything, the cake was honestly pretty good.  Then I headed to the Hofburg for the museum trifecta.  The Kaiserappartments, Sisi Museum, and the Silberkammer.  This took up most of my day and was pretty interesting.  For example did you know that you could spend an entire hour looking at dishes, silverware, and table settings?  Well, you can.

Then to a Mozart and Strauss concert.  I am always amazed that 3 violins,  one cello, and one piano can fill an entire room with such beautiful sounds.  

For Easter morning I went to a service at my new favorite church which had a big choir and orchestra for the service.  Even though I had no idea what they were saying I am pretty sure this was my favorite Easter service ever.  The music was spectacular.  Oh and I sat next to poodle.  Afterward I did more walking though several beautiful parks including the Stadtpark which must be where they film all the park scenes in movies.  Every time I headed to a new destination I seemed to end up in another park.  It was always quite a nice surprise. 

Oh and since Vienna had one, I had to go to the Butterfly House.  

I've also decided that being one of about 10 other people in the Haus der Musik is definitely the only way to go to the museum.  Since no one else was around I could do all the interactive exhibits and read all about the composers.  Apparently you have to be born or live in Vienna to be any good at composing (ok, one exception, Bach).  

Finally to the flight.  I flew this airline (Air Berlin) and they have an interesting methodology for boarding where you basically board twice.  First you wait in line to board a bus that takes you to the plane where you board again.  Actually this is quite genius on their part.  When you're crowded onto a small bus pressed up against everyone else, the plane then seems almost roomy.

All in all it was a great trip, although answering "Ja" to "Nur eins?"  (just one?)  got old really fast.  Now that I've spent 4 days exploring a foreign city alone while living in a different foreign city alone I can say I've done it and never have to do it again.  Traveling isn't nearly as fun when there is no one to hear your sarcastic comments.  I couldn't wait to get back to Munich.  Interesting how quickly you will equate the term "home" with a place which offers the slightest amount of familiarity.  

Unexpected Entertainment

This is too much.  So for the past 3 days at work they have been doing construction on the roof of the building next door.  No big deal, right?  Except for the fact that the roof of the building next door is level with our floor and is about 15 feet from our office window. Therefore we have the perfect view of the process, the noise, and also (unfortunately) the workers.  As a result, for the past 3 days my office mates and I have been able to enjoy the show that is this group of construction workers.  

The funniest part is the guy, who I can only describe as a triangle (steroids and a tanning booth anyone?), who was shoveling dirt 20 feet from us this morning.  Oh did I mention that it was 10 am and he already had his shirt off.  Needless to say as the only girl in the room I get to bear the brunt of the jokes.  All in all, I have to admit that it is quite entertaining and next week when they're gone things will be a little less funny.  Oh construction workers, thank you for showing me that there are universal truths out there.

Oh Those Monks and Their Beer

Today I went with a group of friends out to a monastery/brewery called Andechs.  It is located about an hour outside of Munich.  We arrived at the beer garden after an hour hike and then sat and ate a traditional Bavarian lunch (huge pieces of meat, potatoes, cheese (made by the monks there), and of course a massive pretzel).  We also got the beer that is brewed on site by the monks.  It was beautiful, on the top of a big hill with a view of the green fields and small town below.  We just hung out for about 5 hours and then walked around the church and such before heading back on our hour hike.  

The best part is that I meet a friend of a friend who lived in Barcelona for almost two years and who has been wanting to go back to visit.  Soooooo . . . .  we are going to go to Barcelona in May for 4 days!!!  I'm so excited!   It will be such fun plus I will be there with someone who can speak the language so I hopefully won't get lost or spit on or anything.  

Another Perfect Day

Today was, if possible, even more beautiful than the last two days.  The best part is that I even had time to go for a run through the English Garden.  It was amazing!  Everyone was outside and the crazy thing is that an entrance to the garden is literally across a single lane street from my office's front door.  Couldn't have been better.  

My other news is that I received the lease for my apartment today so as long as everything goes as planned I should have a non-hotel home as of April 17th!  The location is amazing, about 4 blocks from the office and on the best street! (Every other shop is a shoe store!!)  I can't wait! Schwabing here I come.

Perfection

Yesterday and today were absolutely perfect days outside!  These are the kind of days they should make movies about.  All the restaurants have their tables set up outside now and all of the gelato places were open and busy.  In fact in honor of the beautiful day, I got my first gelato since I arrived.  It was amazing and worth the wait.  The best part is that the place where I got it is just around the corner from where I will be living in 2 weeks.  YEAH!  Well, that's about all I have for now.  Plus now I need to go figure out where to do my laundry.  This should be fun . . . 

I'm already running out of titles . . .

Well,  still no word on the apartment or cell phone front.  Once I have these two issues resolved, my German lesson program selected, my Allianz sport facility membership in place, my bank account set up (with an EC card), and figure out where and how to buy a converter for my electronics, I should be all set.  That's all. It sounds so easy when I list it out like that especially since most of it has to be done in German.  (Please note the sarcasm.)

Although I'll admit, I was quite proud today when I was able to return some items to a store and get a pair of pants hemmed.  Even the smallest accomplishment is a big deal when done in another language.  Today was also fun because I got to finally meet my other office mate. There are 3 of us in my office and today was the first day since I started (aside from one morning last week) that I wasn't alone.  I share my office with 2 guys named Thorston and Benjamin.  I can already tell that we are going to have fun.  Just to paint a picture, imagine a room where I am not the most talkative person.  Yep, you get the idea.    

Quite the Weekend

So this weekend had quite the fun adventures!  We'll go ahead and do this chronologically.  Friday night I went out with a couple friends to a bar in Munich called Beach 38.  It is exactly what you're thinking.  The entire floor was sand.  Lots of it and rather deep.  The chairs were beach chairs and they have on heat lamps to make it warm.  It was fantastic!  Plus part of the building contains sand volleyball courts to rent so you could watch people play.  I loved it.

Then on Saturday I met David Sheridan (yes, that's right the one from FFIC) and we went to the Deutsches Museum.  It was great, although I'll have to go back at least 4 more time just to see everything.  

Then today I had even more fun.  I met some friends for brunch at this newly remodeled restaurant.  The buffet was great and the nice thing abut Germany is that they don't ever rush you out of a restaurant so we stayed for about 3 hours.  Man do the Germans know how to do a great brunch!

  

Then tonight I was officially inducted into German society.  I attended Starkbierfest!  Starkbier is this beer brewed during lent by the monks.  It is really heavy beer with higher alcohol content and they drank it while fasting.  The festival is sort of like a mini Oktoberfest, except not touristy and for the locals.  It was awesome!!  People dancing on the tables, everyone in lederhosen and derndles, food, and lots of liters of beer.  (Of course a liter is the only size you can get) The great thing is that I knew half the songs the band played because they love American music.  It was great and a perfect step toward Oktoberfest.  I'll post pictures later.  Well, now that I've had daylight savings time for the second time this spring I had better go to bed since it is late.  Hope everyone is doing well.  I miss you lots!   

Prost

Day Something or Other

Well, I haven' written in a while so it is about time for a good old summary.  Today was actually quite interesting.  Not only did I finally get to meet my boss (who is very nice, so it is sad he works from Zurich) but I also started the apartment search.  Don't you hate it how it always seems that the apartment with the great location has the crappier set up and the one with the nice kitchen is on the busy street?!  I guess the important things is that both are better than the hotel.  

Today was also an interesting weather day.  First it was snowing, then it was sunny, then it was snowing again, then it was sunny,  (just imagine a couple more of these and you get the idea). Made me feel like I was in Nebraska again!  Well, I need to go buy my plane ticket to Vienna, so that's all for now. 

Day 2

So today is less interesting than yesterday, and tomorrow could go either way. 

This morning I did my dry run for getting to work. It took 40 minutes, but instead of a wasted 40 minutes, is was about 30 minutes of reading. Needless to say I think I will be able to get through lots of books these next 2 years! Then on my way back I got off at a different stop to find a roll to go with my dinner and I found this cool bakery. Heute habe ich meine erste Brezel gegessen. Und sie war kostlich! (Today I ate my first Pretzel. And it was delicious!) 

Then on my run around the neighborhood I found the longest slide on the side of a hill in a park! I can't wait until things dry off (and there aren't so many kids around) to try it out. 

I think those are the highlights of the day. (The rest of the day was spent wandering around the town, which while it was interesting for me, isn't that interesting in words.)

Day 1 (aka The Flight)

Well, I've had enough requests for updates that I decided a blog of sorts was in order. So here we go, this is post #1:

We will start at the beginning. So I arrive at the airport, on time actually, and I get up to check in my bags. Well, I had done my due diligence and weighed both checked bags before leaving Christi's apartment and they were just under the weight limit. Clear sailing right? Wrong. Lufthansa has a weight limit for your carry-on! And of course my bag was twice the limit. So the wonderful woman behind the counter was very patient with me as I opened my bag and started pulling things out and putting some in my checked bags and putting others in my already stuffed Timbuktu bag. So finally she says it is close enough and lets me go. Luckily this was the only complicated and stressful part of the entire flight. 

On the flight I watched one movie, slept for about 6 hours, then woke-up to eat breakfast, and got off the plane. From there I walked through customs, grabbed my bags, and hopped into a cab. Good first day.

Now for the technical day 1. I got up early to run errands since everything closes at 2 on Saturdays! I bought my ticket for the S-Bahn, which is literally outside the front door of the hotel, and rode it into the city center to shop for the basics. I got what I needed and didn't embarrass myself too badly with the sales people. Then on the way home the S-bahn police started checking for tickets so luckily I had managed to buy the correct one! For some reason I enjoyed that I got checked the first day I was here. I feel like a local. Well, that is enough for now, but I will write more later.