In Honor of Someone Birthday...

In honor of Lisa's birthday, I thought I'd post this very special picture. It is my very own bathroom. Yes, it does really resemble an airplane restroom (if airplanes were to be equipped with showers). I've never seen anything like it in an actual permanent residence before. It works...and I do prefer it to the communal nature of our restrooms freshman year in Camino Hall. I hope you find this picture to be entertaining like I do...and not disturbing.

Happy Birthday, Friend!!!

I have to give this shout out to my favorite resident of Tucson, AZ.... Happy Birthday!!! October 20th...woo woo!!!

I'm cooking a pizza right now in your honor and will definitely toast to the One and Only JJ.

Promoted or Booted?

The beginning of the semester on Monday marked my promotion to the other German Grammar class. I began in the low class, but have now been booted to the higher class.

It is definitely an honor to be promoted in such a way, however I still have some reservations. Since I have missed the the first month of this other course, I am a bit behind. But I do hope that this will lead to that humbling experience that I hoped for before. In reality, it seems like my German skills put me somewhere in the middle of the two classes. So now, instead of getting the best marks in the class (one of only two A's), I will probably get some of the lower ones.

My main reservation is that my friends are all in the other class now. It makes things a bit difficult. But, if I look at it optimistically, it gives me an opportunity to make more friends. I'm not worried...there's too much else in this world to worry about.

Suprisingly Disorganized

I have decided that I am suprisingly disorganized. I think my disorganization began as a function of my 'pack rat disorder.' Anyways, I would like offer up a positive twist on my disorganization: It allows me more suprises in life.

In my lack of organization, I end up forgetting that I own something, and end up finding it to a great suprise. I am comfortable with this. Sometimes I do get frustrated when I cannot locate something in my room - mostly because it is so small and I have so little - but I don't like to dwell on this frustration. The suprises are always much better.

I experience these suprising moments daily, but an especially funny incident occurred this weekend. I had already ridden the U-bahn and walked several blocks when I stopped to remove a pebble from my shoe. It turned out to be the missing back of my earing. How cool is that! That is definitely an extreme example...but whatever.

German Food?

After our Big Mexican Night, what would naturally follow?

Chinese food.

A bunch of JYMers (not as many as the night before) met up to go to a Chinese restaurant. The food was actually really good. The menu was humorous, in that it displayed like 4 different languages, but it appeared as if it was translated from Chinese into German into English. So the English translations were a little off.

Then we made our way to the center of town for 'Die Lange Nacht' (the long night). It is was a city wide event in which 70 museums open up their doors and everyone takes buses to each of the museums. It was jammed packed with people at some places, but it was really neat to experience. I've already done a bunch of the art museums, but Munich has so much more to offer than just that. Die Lange Nacht lasted from 7pm to 2am...and there was live music and food everywhere.

We started at the Egyptian museum, went to the Botanical Gardens, the BMW museum, and the Siemens Museum. It was a bit cold, but overall a cool cultural experience. Munich is proud of it's museums, as it should be.

Tiffany and I decided that since we were out at the museums until 1:30ish, I have already completed my required Sunday Museum Visit to keep up with my tradition. So the tradition is still going...museum every Sunday...but I might go again today to one of my favorite free museums, I'm not sure. It's tough because not much is open on Sundays around here. For this reason, Saturdays down town are beyond crowded. On Sundays, the only people down town are tourists. All the stores are closed and only the touristy restaurants are open. That's the primary reason why the museums are such a good option for Sundays.

As Sweet as It Gets

I returned from my Alps excursion and we did a bit of studying to prepare for our Final the next morning. The test wasn't that bad...I really don't mind tests. I'm actually really comfortable with test taking in general.

Anyways, right after the test, we made the trek to the best ice cream in town. I am so excited that we've already found the best ice cream shop. I was starting to get worried about the lack of ice cream in Munich for the winter. Apparently, most of the Italians (who own the ice cream shops) head south for the winter because business is too slow. This was quite a shock to my heart...but I think we have found at least two shops that are permanent installations - including the one with the very best ice cream in the city.

Then I brought my bike back to StuStadt on the U-bahn (the subway). It must have been quite a hilarious sight...it's not easy to get a bike up and down stair and esclators and into a crowded train.

On the walk home, I realized what an amazing day I was experiencing. The sun was shining (it was by no means hot, but the sun was out), I had absolutely no homework to worry about, and my grandma sent me brownies (I know! Can you believe it!?!)!!!

To top it all off, all of the JYMers met for Happy Hour at a Mexican restaurant to celebrate the completion of our Intensive Language Course. The pitchers of margaritas and sangria sure made for a fun evening. Even Herr Söder (the director of our program) stopped by for a drink. He's such a cool person!

Here's a few tidbits from Herr Söder, regarding German culture:

German children are raised to be correct. American children are
raised to be polite.

Germans don't turn on the heat full blast in the winter because a certain
level of uncomfortablitily is the just the German way.

For Germans, there is a place and time for laughter/jokes. This is
why many people think the Germans have horrible senses of humor. This is
also why all of the Germans give us weird looks when we laugh on the U-bahn or
on the sidewalk. It's a dead give away that we're Americans.

Fairytale Castle

It's really tough to get a quality picture of Neuschwanstein...which is why the gift shop sells forty different varieties for all you photographic needs. The castle itself is quite overrated. I can't really understand why Walt Disney used it to base his animation on...it's not that special. The best aspect of it is it's location in the mountains. However, pictures of that are most easily obtained from a heliocopter - I assume - so all pictures that I took were really disappointing.

Another Church

Another church. But I actually remember the name of this one: Wiese Kirche (Meadow Church ??)

Essen

We ate some really cool Bavarian food at this restaurant near the monastery. At this time, many people became aware of my desire to be a superhero in my life. I'm still not sure how they took this...but let's just say that part of my argument asserted that Jesus was the original superhero...with his 12 sidekicks...well, I hope no one is upset by that...

Cool Church

Not too far from Oberammergau, lies this monastery/baroque/rococco church. It was really beautiful and I wish I could remember the name...but that's the problem with these types of tours: too many churches. I love churches and architecture, but sometimes it gets to be a little too much.

Alp Excursion - Take 2

We got up early after our Capture the Flag endevour for an excursion into the Alps. Unlike the last one, there was no hiking involved. Our first stop was the very small town of Oberammergau. It's the sight of the famous Passion play every ten years. Since it isn't 2010 yet, the town is really calm and adorable.

Capture the What?

I just returned from a two hour game of Capture the Flag in the Englischer Garten. My favorite park was the setting for a dangerous rendevous of only the bravest JYMers (that's the term we use to describe the 35 or so of us in this study abroad program).

It was definitely less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit (about 4 Grad), foggy, dark, and absolutely impossible to see anything. In spite of all (more likely, because of all that), we sure did have fun, even though my team did not win. It was awesome to actually find out that there are some people here that are more competitive than myself (I know, that is hard to believe). We actually thought that we won 3 times before we actually lost (there was an issue with decoy flags...), so I don't feel like I really lost.

I'm covered in dirt from my pseudo-military crawl through the park and definitely hyped for our trip tomorrow to Neuschwanstein. For me, there's nothing better than sports and traveling (then there's chocolate and ice cream...)

Capture the Flag also supports my theory that regressing back to my childhood serves as the greatest stress reliever. How can you be stressed out while playing a children's game?

Speaking of Running...

I finally went for my first run in the Englischer Garten (Europe's largest city park...or something impressive like that). It was certainly a pleasant suprise to not have to run up and down hills - like one must always do in San Diego. As it turns out, I love running in this park! Some people are trying to plan a big game of Capture the Flag in the park before it gets too cold. I'm kinda excited about that, but I'm not sure if it will really happen.

(If you just checked out that link and are worried about the nude sunbathers...don't. It's too cold for them right now. But I did see a few last weekend...and I did actually hear a rumor that they play volleyball naked...)

On a completely random note, I just bought myself some thick Norwegian socks. I figure the Norwegians know how to make warm socks...we'll see...

Munich Marathon

Ingrid is posing for a picture that I'm sure she never expected me to post here...hmm...sorry dude. Wandering around down at Marienplatz this morning and happened upon the Munich Marathon. There's always something going on in Munich, or so it seems. (If you're ever curious about what's going on, this Marienplatz webcam can be interesting.) The race was exciting, but I really didn't know what to yell as encouragement for the runners...Du kannst es machen! ... Schneller! ... probably not the most encouraging things to say. I'll have to ask a German.

One man on the sidelines was holding a sign that said: Er kam, er sah, er lief! (He came, he saw, he ran!) And I am proud to say that I understood (actually, I figured out part of it right now - like 10 hours after I first saw it...but hey, I still got it). But as for usual, I am much better with the comprehesion than with the actual formation of my own sentences in German. Getting better everyday...

Sunday Tradition

I've been here for a short time now, but I already have my very own tradition. On Sunday, I go to the museum. Not only do I go, but I bring with me another person from USD. First it was Emily, then Detgen, and finally Isidro. It's a pretty cool tradition, if I don't say so myself. In a short while I'll be able to give tours...maybe I can make some extra money that way? No, probably not. But I do love Munich's museums. It's a cultural and intellectual experience that city dwellers are privileged to have access to. I also went to a church service this morning. Both of these cultural experiences may not seem that significant now, but I think they are a part of a whole. The whole will hopefully be my development into a more culturally aware individual.

Spicing it Up?

I just felt the need to post a picture...I don't want the blog to get boring or anything. This is from the top of the St. Peters Kirche - 306 steps...but there's a very rewarding view. This is from the first week on our Scavenger Hunt. I hope next time, I'll have a more recent picture to post (and more interesting things to say...jeez, did I really dedicate two entire posts to laundry? That's sad).

Laundry Update

I have now survived the German Laundry Procedure twice. I have to admit, it is not as bad as I previously asserted.

There are only 3 washing machines in the entire 8 story building. Since school has not yet started, there aren't enough residents yet living here for the machines to be in high demand. The machines are in the stairwell, which is relatively close - no matter where your room is located. The machines didn't ruin my clothes and the drying process took a little more than a day. All of my clothes are now clean.

It just takes a little more patience, but I would be lying if I said I didn't need practice with my patience.

Struggling to Find My Deutsche Bekannte

German culture has a big distinction between acquaintances (Bekannte) and friends (Freunde). You have to know everything about someone and be able to talk about anything with them in order to be a 'friend.' Or if they are a friend of the family, you can classify a person as your friend. But otherwise, German people tend to have many more acquaintances.

Perhaps, in the US, we overuse the word 'friend'. It' not something that I think about often...when can I classify this person as a friend...but I have been forced to in my new cultural environment. I think in the US, we use the term 'friend' to describe both our friends and those we see as potentially becoming 'friends.' Acquaintances are people that you barely know and don't care to know that much. I'm not sure if I'm way off base with that brief analysis, but I provided it anyways.

Last night, I made 3 new Deutsche Bekannte. Three German girls took us out to their favorite club. I also learned about the different way that Europeans dance in comparison to American dancing. I really can't go into an explanation of how young Americans dance, but if you've seen it, you know what I'm talking about. In Europe, it is quite different. Then, they asked us to show them how Americans dance. Let's just say that we were the comic relief for all of the Germans in the vicinity.

Of all of the cultures in the world, German and American are realitively close to each other. However, the little differences are what makes life over here so interesting.

On Faith

In all of her wisdom, Detgen shared something with me this weekend that really stuck with me. We visited a large church in the center of town - St. Peters. It was actually very nice looking, not too gaudy, not too dark...just right. But as we were looking at the golden statues up on the alter, Detgen pointed something out to me:
So much of the world's money is spent on trying to create beautiful things for God. These attempts are sometimes pathetic and at other times useful for society. But when God looks down on these artworks and structures, it is most likely comparable to when a 3 year old child brings home a drawing to his parents. The child is very proud of the drawing and thinks that everyone should be jealous. In reality, the picture is just not artistically significant, but the parents love it just the same. So our grand cathedrals and other works of art dedicated to God are nothing compared to the real beauty that God knows, but he loves our attempts just the same.
I'm not sure if I articulated this well, but I really am glad that Detgen shared this thought with me. The next time that I see art dedicated to God, this thought will be on my mind. It is not a negative thought...it reminds me of both God's parental love for me and God's patience with my immaturity and monetary obsession. But when it comes down to it, I can see God's love everywhere...if I remember to look.

Laundry Predicament

Generally, laundry is a realitively unimportant thing in my life. At home we do laundry so often that I never worry about anything even related to laundry.

Things have changed.

First of all, I brought much fewer clothes with me than I normally have at home. Second of all, the rain and mud tends to dirty clothes here rather quickly. So, obviously, I should do laundry right now.

There are only 4 or 5 washers in the entire building that I live in. These washers take tokens - tokens that are specific to this building only. These tokens are only sold in the basement of this building (where they also sell beer). This 'Keller' is only open from 7pm-8pm MWF. If that seems absurd to you, you are in good company.

I have washed some important undergarments in my sink and they are hang drying in my room right now. Oh, that's another variable in the German-Laundry-Predicament...no one here uses dryers. I think there are 2 in this building, but I've heard rumors that they ruin your clothes. Since all of my clothes must hang-dry, the drying process is bound to take days. If I do not wash my clothes soon, I will have only 2 options: naked or dirty or wet. Which will I choose? I'll let you know if it comes down to it...which would you choose?

Detgen's Visit

Detgen's studying in Konstanz (a beautiful lakeside town that I have not yet visited) and she trekked the 5 hour train ride to Munich for the last weekend of Oktoberfest. We had fun, but it certainly wasn't easy getting through the throngs of people that bombarded the city. Luckily, most everyone was only on the Oktoberfest grounds, so we could easily explore the rest of the city.

My First Munich Sunset

Since everyday in Munich (up until this weekend) has been dreadfully gray, we have not had a real sunset. Detgen and I tried to go to the terrace of the Gruenes Haus to watch it from high up. The terrace was locked, but we watched through the window. I think Arizona sunsets might still be my favorite, but the fact that Munich sunsets are so rare made this particular sunset awesome.

Detgen and I strolling in the Englisher Garten

I'm really making a stupid face, so this picture should not be reproduced and shown around school or anything (maybe that should be the standard ground rules for all of the pictures that I post). Detgen came to visit me this weekend and she brought the sun with her. For that, I will ever be thankful. Munich has seen three straight days of sunshine and it makes me feel at home.

Out of Place

Just a few things that I've noticed lately:

In two different cabins in the Alps, I found bottles of soy sauce on the
restaurant tables.

I ate mexican food on Saturday in a restaurant called Tijiuana Cafe in
Munich.

I definitely heard country music on a German radio station last
night.

This morning, I watched Dr. Quinn: Medicine Woman on German
television. It was voiced-over, of course.

Is it just me, or are these things out of place?

Ain't Nothing like an Alpine Adventure

We set out Thursday morning bright and early for the Alps. No more than an hour out of the city and we were passing by beautiful lakeside villages in the foothills of the Alps. I have been in the Alps before (Switzerland a few years ago) and it was one of my favorite travel experiences of my life. That time involved no real hiking...we were wimps and took almost 5 different modes of transportation to reach our destination - Mount Pilatus. I'll never forget that, but my most recent Alpine experience was truly an adventure.

I am not an extreme outdoorsy person, but I can handle myself. I certainly had the intention of 'kickin the mountain's ass.' But more importantly, I was going to have fun. Being a fan of The Sound of Music, I knew that this trip must incorporate singing. We tried...but it's difficult to think of hiking songs when you're forced to. We tried to sing '99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall' in German...what a tongue twister! Neunundneunzig Flashen von Bier and der Wand, neunundneuzig Flashen von Bier... Ok, so that didn't work. Then, the path got steeper and I needed all of my oxygen. The singing stopped.

My Head in the Clouds?

I have too many pictures that I love of my recent journey in the Alps! We were definitely above the clouds...closer to heaven? Not sure, but it sure felt like it.

Me? Competitive?

I live on the sixth floor (which would be called the seventh floor in America) and our elevator is extremely unreliable, so I like to think that I am in shape. I haven't really worked out in two weeks because of the whole moving process and readjustment, but I would not go as far as to say that I am in bad shape.

Somehow, I ended up in the leading pack of the hike. We had about 25-30 people with us to varying degrees to athletic ability and speed. I tried to keep up with Ingrid. This was quite a challenge. She's from Alaska and is like the most experienced freakin hiker that I've ever met. Then, Alex was with us as well. She's from Seattle and has done a bit of hiking in her day as well. Seeing as I have only tackled Camelback Mountain a handful of times, I was a little out of my league. But I didn't let that stop me. I'm actually really proud of myself...I'm a pretty good hiker.

So we were the first to arrive at the first check point. We sat down, ate, and then waited for everyone else to come. Some arrived 20-30 minutes later, others an entire hour later. By this time, we were absolutely freezing. We were soaking wet from the sprinkling rain and sweat. I'm not sure what the temperature was, but when we stopped moving it was freezing. So when we started doing pushups, jumping jacks, and dancing all of the others thought we were insane because they had not yet reached that point of coldness. It was really funny because they couldn't understand how we had such energy. I still do not know how I made it this entire trip without dying of exhaustion...the energy comes from somewhere...

Hiking Buddies

Well, this is before we were muddy, wet, and out of breath...so they let me take their picture. Here's Alex and Ingrid. They were my teamates for the first leg of the journey. We won! (yes, some people definitely were frightened by my competitiveness...but isn't everyone?) We were the first one's to the lake (in the next picture)...

My lake

I don't know the name of this lake, but I want to call it mine. Some of the toughest hiking or the trip led up to this spot, so when we found it...pure elation. Right when we turned the corner, this was the exact view that we got. It was quite suprising...defintely a pleasant suprise. Then we sat on a log and ate our lunch waiting for all of the others to catch up. I love this lake!

We found it!

I think our hike to the hut lasted 4 hours or more. It really wasn't that bad, but it certainly took some work. We arrived at our Berghuette not really knowing what to expect. First of all, you must remove your muddy shoes before walking around in the house. And it was much like a house. Upstairs were two bedrooms, one for women and one for men. The men had like 3 beds per person, but the women's room was quite full. Let me tell you, it was not a good thing. All of our smelly bodies sleeping in one big room was not really pleasant. But it was warm. Downstairs they had washrooms, a kitchen, and a living room type area. This area was the warmest, so we all congregated there. It had a bar and was where you could order food.

Everyone jumped on the offer of hot chocolate. Ingrid and I tried what the lady recommended - Jagertee - let me just say that it certainly warmed us up! Then we all sat around big tables talking and relaxing. Dinner was served and we scarfed down some hot Bavarian food. The desert was like chopped up pancakes covered in sugar and then you dip it in apple sauce. I forgot what it was called, but it was so good. Then we stayed at the tables playing cards and talking about life until everyone went to bed.

We awoke to more rain. The weather in the region can change quickly though...it's so hard to predict (unlike so-cal). At this time we split up into two groups: those who wanted to hike to the highest peak or those who wanted to take the gondola-thing down to some town and wait for us there. Of course, I wanted to hike. I really have no rain gear, but I was ready none-the-less.

Green Rolling Hills

Here's Anna standing next to some random mountain hut. They have troughs like this everywhere...for the cows and sheep, not the people. The worst part is all of the animal droppings all over the trail. If you look up at the view for too long, you're bound to step in some...ewww. I have concluded that is one of the reason that the Alps are so green.

Our Oasis (this is not a postcard...)

This is our beautful Alpine hut (for lack of a better translation). I loved it! The sleeping accomadations were less than perfect, but the atmosphere was perfect! We left in in the morning with nice a clear weather, but soon after the weather caught up with us. Our little oasis was already too far away at this time...

Nass

Well, the rain didn't stop. So let me tell you the two new German words that I most often used during this second day of our hike: nass (wet) and gefaehrlich (dangerous).

We made our way up the slippery, muddy trail to the peak - Rotwand. It was really cool. But seconds after we reached it, the clouds came. We couldn't see the beautiful view in any direction and it began to pour. No pictures here for me. So I the water just kept coming. Anna was wearing a trashbag and many other smarter people were wearing raingear, but not me.

By the time we made it to the Rotwandhaus (a pit stop type place, very similar to the place that we stayed over night), I was soaked through. I changed my sweatshirt with a dry one from my bag, but I wanted to save my dry pants for later. Then, Ingrid and I went searching for hot chocolate. We ordered some in the restaurant while most everyone else was just trying to dry off. It sure hit the spot and warmed me up. But then someone stuck their head in and said that we were leaving. We had to chug our hot chocolate.

The hour immediately following the chugging of the chocolate, I was completely high on sugar. I had so much energy all of the sudden. This is when we really got to the singing. Since we were going downhill, I didn't need all of my oxygen as badly as before. Ingrid, Tiffany, Andre, and I sang horrible Disney songs, lame kareoke songs, and even Raffi songs all the way down the mountain. Other hikers just laughed at us, but it was so much fun. We were still wet, but we were wet and laughing so it seemed so much better.

After we ran out of songs to sing, I realized how badly that I had to go to the bathroom (a consequence of the chocolate chugging). Tiffany began explaining to us theories of Platetechtonics and other Geological mumbo-jumbo. It was actually really interesting and it kept my mind off of my bladder.

We were all wet and smelly and dead-tired...but we made it! We made it to a little town (that supposedly has an amazing spa/sauna that we really wanted to search for) where we picked up our bus.

Final Alpine Thoughts

I can now officially title myself Koenigin von die Berge (Queen of the Mountain). I love the Alps!

This journey showed me that I can do more than I think that I can. I made the most out of the it, no matter what got in the way - weather...it really can't bring me down, no matter what it does. I think the trip really helped us get to know each other better and I hung out with some really cool people. Herr Soeder (the director of our program) is definitely a classy guy. I am really glad to know him. It's moments like these that I know that this is where I'm supposed to be. I know that this is where God wants me to be.

I also think it is really important to interact with nature every once in awhile. I get my share of the ocean, usually, but this kind of nature is a bit different. It is very hard to describe the feeling that being in nature gives me, but it is definitely special. I feel the power of God in nature - it's realness, the awe of it, and combination of strength and beauty. I hope to not go so long again before my next journey to the Alps. They truly do make you want to sing...the hills are alive...

Well, if you didn't notice, I kinda published this story in reverse order so that it would flow better. Let me know if my plan backfired and I confused anyone.

I wish I could be more descriptive, etc. but I am so tired right now...

Interkulturelle Workshop

An intercultural workshop is a very interesting idea, theoretically. We particpated in one today for 4 hours and I feel much worse about the Germans than I did before. The presentation centered primarily around the negative aspects of German culture. I guess it was more of a reality check for me. I guess I am currently in the 'Honeymoon Phase' of my year here. From here, I can only see all of the positive things about it. So, perhaps, in a week or two, homesickness is due to set in. The graph, as it was described to me, is like a rollercoaster. At least no one describes rollercoasters as boring.

Anyways, during the workshop, we had to perform skits. Mine centered around the German's eagerness to discuss politics, religion, and other tough issues with everyone. It was funny. This isn't really a problem that I have with the culture. I would certainly like to learn the vocabulary necessary for these types of discussions.

Most of the topics discussed in the workshop were actually interesting, but a bit difficult to describe.

I can definitely feel my German getting better already. I feel like every single day I learn a million new words. How much of this I retain is another story.

We went to the Mensa (cafeteria) today. We'd been there before, but today the ladies that were working it seemed so much meaner. They yelled at us for holding up the line and then one yelled at me for touching something and not buying it. (Actually, these are only my assumptions...I have not yet been able to interpret German when it is yelled in an angry voice, so they could have been yelling about something entirely different) Well, I'm not sure when we will be going back there. I don't like getting yelled at by old women.

We only have one class right now - our intensive language course - since the semester has not yet begun. I really like our one and only professor. She is very German, so she can seem strict and cold, but I really like her. I think she likes us too. She chatted with us during the break about her study abroad experience in America. Today, she was wearing her tradtional Bavarian dress, so I assume that she was headed to Oktoberfest after class. I hope that my first impression of her doesn't serve me wrong.

By the way, I am getting a bit better at joking in German...but I haven't got yet into any deep discussions.

Tomorrow morning we are going for an overnight hike in the Alps. So I won't be around until this weekend. I hoping to learn how to yodel or something interesting...but at the very least, it will be a much-needed work out. I've been eating so much junk lately. Was kann man machen...es gibt zu veil Cafes und Eis in die Strassen.

Mein Zimmer

Here's another extremely boring picture. I live in the Blaues Haus (Blue House) and the interior of my room is coordinated with the exterior of the building...but even that is not interesting... I'll save my picture of my bathroom for another day. Don't want to over stimulate anyone.

The sun was actually out for a brief while today so I took some really boring pictures. This is the view that I have from my balcony. It's not really very interesting, but you can notice how green Munich is. 

Deported?

I forgot to mention earlier that I did not get deported for doing poorly on my test (yet). It actually wasn't that bad. The two women that I had to speak with for the spoken part of the test were sooooo nice. They made it go much smoother than it otherwise would have. I just talked about San Diego and what I study in school.

Here's the best answer that we thought of while preparing for the questions that we thought might be asked:

-Warum studierst du Deutsch?
-Warum nichts.

(Translation:Why do you study German?Why not.)

I chickened out and did not answer it that way...but it is really how I feel. Instead, I tried to explain to them something that I can't even explain in English.

German Personality

I was talking with Emily and her friends this weekend about speaking in German (actually, I was talking about speaking in German and they were talking about speaking in French). We almost concluded that it is much more difficult to have a personality in your second language. We are trying to do so, but it is frustrating to have a deep conversation or joke in German. I haven't yet made deep conversation in German, but today I made my first real German joke.

It probably won't make sense...it's more like an inside joke...but I'll try to relate it:

We were on our way to a meeting with the Polizei (police) at Oktoberfest. It ended up being a lecture about random police statistics, but we weren't really sure at the time why we were going to Oktoberfest. Lena (the primary administrator of my program) was leading the way. I am really afraid of speaking in front of her so far because I think that she'll think I'm stupid. She's never said a word of English to us and her German is perfect (and easy to understand because she has an American accent). Now that I think about it, I don't think Lena really laughed at my joke, but she was laughing more at the fact that I was wicked excited about making a joke in German ( I just used the word 'wicked' -lol- I learned it from my new friend from New Hampshire -lol).

ME: Wir treffen dem Polizei zu trinken, oder?
Lena: Ja, ja in ein Beirzelt.
(Laughter)
ME: Hey, hey...I just made a joke auf Deutsch!! Kaum zu glauben!
(More laughter)

This will probably not make any sense to anyone but myself....sorry! The point is that I made a joke in German.

First Weekend

My first weekend is over.

I had an amazing time on Friday with doing a Scavenger Hunt throughout the city and then going to Oktoberfest. I have decided that if you've been to Oktoberfest (the real one, not a imitation) it must be impossible to label anything less a 'party' ever again.

Saturday, we went looking for a gym where we can take recreation classes throughout the year. We found it, but it was closed. It was right next to the Olympia Stadium, where the primary soccer team plays - FC Bayern. It definitely got me excited to go to a game. Then, I got a call from Emily, which was so awesome. So I met her at Oktoberfest. Emily and her friends had a table outside, which is not the same as inside, but it was still cool. Then we went dancing at an Australian club. It was more of a touristy experience than Friday night, which was more of a Bavarian experience.

On Sunday, I met Emily and her friends again to go to the Neue Pinothek, one of the many art museums in the city. It was really cool, Renoir, Manet, Monet, Van Gogh, Cezane, Goghan...and plenty of other German artists that you don't learn about at school. Then we went back to Oktoberfest (which, by the way, us Germans call Wies'n) to look for Emily's camera. It was definitely a lost cause, but we got some good food while we were there.

On Sunday, especially at night, there is very little open around here. So we decided to cook dinner together tonight. I actually didn't cook, but I brought some stuff and chopped some peppers...I'm not really a chef. Anna, Tiffany, and I met at Ingrid's room (her's is the cleanest) for our little evening. It was really fun getting to know my new friends better. It is really funny trying to cook in the tiny kitchen that we have and we had to turn two trash cans upsidedown so that we had enough places to sit. It was sort of an adventure. I forsee the procedure improving in the near future.

German culture is not that different from in the US, so far that I've observed. You see alot more Lederhosen (but that's just during Oktoberfest, I think). Everyone speaks English, even if you don't want them to. The pillows are shaped like the ones that your dog sleeps on in the corner - big squares. The greatest sin that one could ever commit would be to recycle improperly (there's at least 12 different bins in some places, and I try to only sort mine when no one is looking). Drying machines are not commonly accepted, one should hang-dry all clothes (even if it's freakin raining everyday!). The air here is actually very dry, even though it rains alot (I don't get it). All the public transportation uses the honor system when it comes to paying. Nudity on TV is not frowned upon. The toilets are just not as efficient or functional (I think it has something to do with water conservation, but I'm still trying to figure it out). People are very friendly and have been very helpful whenever I've asked for help. I have definitely fallen in love with public transportation! Munich is a very international city, especially during Oktoberfest, so it's cool to meet people from all over the world!

Well, I have to take a German test in the morning. So if you don't hear from me in awhile, it's because I have been deported for being too stupid. (Just kidding!)

Does it ever end?

Ok, so I think the internet problems might be over...but now I cannot actually view my blog. I can add to it and edit it, but I cannot view it. If anyone is having a similar problem please let me know.

Also, it is kinda weird that the time that shows up on here is the time in California, not in Munich. I think I might change it to actually represent the time that I am experiencing. I hope that isn't too confusing.

France is definitely not this cold!

Emily at Oktoberfest. She came with her friends Bob, Larissa, and Courtney who are all studying in Aix, France. We had a blast...but Munich is a little colder than the south of France, as you can see in the picture. Hopefully, I can go and visit her soon.

Yes, it is really that gloomy...every day!

Here's a pic from the tower on top of St. Peters. It was a great view, but you can feel the gloom, can't you? That's the overall feel in Munich so far. But I love it!

Bon Voyage!

I am leaving in a few hours. If I said I was not anxious, that would be blatant lie. I am a little bit emotional right now, and even more nauseous.

Hopefully, I'll be back to blogging in no time!

Sometimes I feel like a 'Study Abroad Commercial'

It is somewhat of a big responsibility...as I remember some of my important decisions in my life, I recall certain people's comments and how they influenced my decisions. The voices just flash in my brain - they can be the voices of strangers, peers, parents - but they've subconsciously and consciously influenced my decisions. I'd like to think that decisions are made independent from the outside influences, but we don't live in a vacuum.

So I often find myself playing the role of the 'Study Abroad Promoter.' The problem is: I haven't even gone yet! Once I get there, I will be much better equiped for this role. Once I get back, I foresee myself embracing this role to its fullest extent. I will then be ready for all of my advice on the matter to be taken seriously (since now all of my advice is just speculative).

Here's a quote that I have found - as a part of my research for this role of mine:

"People-to-people diplomacy, created through international education and exchanges, is critical to our national interests. Americans who study abroad expand their global perspective and become more internationally engaged." (Colin Powell, Secretary of State, August 2002)

Museum of Tolerance

My mom and I went to the Museum of Tolerance on Sunday. It was one of the best museums that I have ever been to. I strongly recommend it to everyone who ever finds themselves in LA, Manhattan, or Jerusalem - I believe.

The museum seriously propelled me deep into thought. I find most things about the Holocaust to be indescribable - beyond words. This museum did an amazing job at conveying the feeling, the facts, the words, the emotions, everything that is that time period - probably the darkest time period of humanity.

On Sundays, they have Holocaust survivors avaible to speak and we attended one of these. It was an amazing story that I don't think I will ever be able to forget. The generation that actually survived the Holocaust is getting older and it may not be long until speakers like this are nonexistent. I feel priveleged to have heard her story.

So much of what I learned at the museum will become increasingly relevant as I attempt to understand the impact of the Holocaust on the German people. I hope to take a class this upcoming semester titled - Hitler in Munich. It will be so interesting to compare the perspectives - Jewish American perspective to a German perspective.

I am so thankful for the inciteful conversation that the museum provoked between my mother and me. I love learning and I love challenging my preconceived perceptions.

Shirt Color

I realized that I am wearing the same color shirt in all of the pictures that I have posted of myself until now. This annoys me...but I assure you that it is entirely a coincidence. I am really a colorful person (or at least I like to think so).

Dinner on Saturday

Cute pic of my dad and I - before we devoured our lobster, shrimp, and carne asade fajitas - after our wakeboarding adventure.

My Last Saturday

I just received complimentary feedback on my writing style. It was an especially potent compliment because it came from one of the most avid readers I've ever met. With narrative pieces being far from my fortay, I will probably prove the complimenter wrong with the following:

My last Saturday in the United States was one of the best days ever.

My mom and I went to the gym first thing in the morning. Then, we came home and cooked breakfast. We all got ready and made our way to a small bay nearby.

There began my first attempt at wakeboarding. It was a blast, but I was constantly reminded of my lack of talent when it comes to 'board sports.' I'd say when it comes to me wakeboarding, I am better at surfing but worse at snowboarding. If you haven't heard my snowboarding accident story, you're really missing out... Anyways, my brother and dad are so much better than me and my mother was a great water skier in her day - and it is still evident today. It was so much fun to watch them wipe out too!

To top off our pleasant afternoon in the sun, we went out for lobster and shrimp. I'm not sure there could have been a better combination - wakeboarding and seafood go hand in hand.

Then, in a throwback to the ole days, we went ice skating. My brother used to play hockey and we used to be at the rink multiple times each week. We had not done it in such a long time, so it was fun to reminisce. My brother, again, demonstrated his superior athletic ability (which does not extend into every sport, just most of them, by the way). Regardless, I really enjoyed the feeling that I remember so well - if I get going fast enough, the perfect icy breeze cools my flushed cheeks - that is best part of ice skating. It is a dangerous activity though, especially after a tiring day out on the bay. If you haven't heard the story about the ice skate, my pinky finger, and all of the blood, you're really missing out... (sorry, I just couldn't help but use that catch phrase once more)

Straight from the rink, I went to meet Cristina for dessert. Quite suprisingly, it turns out there was a suprise party going on for me. Cristina and Jackie organized a small gathering at Deepthi's apartment. It was so cute! They served strawberry shortcake and strawberry drinks in honor of my hair color! I don't think a better game of Charades has ever been played (Yes, we are nerdy, but how else would one act when celebrating with me? I am the Queen of the Nerds). I love all of the friends that I've made in San Diego and I hope they realize how much I will miss them when I am gone. Thank You!

And thank you to everyone else who made 'my last Saturday' one to remember - especially my family!

Oktoberfest Beginnt

Oktoberfest begins today, though I am not yet there...I will soon be exactly where the greatest party on the planet is! Here's the link for a webcam - who knows, if you look hard enough you might be able to see me one of these days.

I'll be meeting Emily there next weekend - I'm definitely excited!

Oktoberfest 2004 Poster

Messing Around with my New Camera

Here's a picture of Jackie and I (Nicole was too incompentant to work my new camera, so we had to take it ourselves). Jackie has been the best roommate anyone could ask for. But I didn't even ask for her - God sent her too me. And for that, I am truly grateful.

"EeeEee, Jackie, Tonnswaza!" (The only phrase that I know in Luganda...trust me, if you knew what it meant, you'd think it was funny)

High Tide

I went running on the beach this morning. I was the only runner there because, apparently, it was high tide. I wasn't about to let this stop me, so I made an adventure out of it. I was forced, at times, to climb the rocks whilst I ran. It was a wet feet/scraped hands adventure. Now my shoes smell like the ocean. I am considering leaving them this way - to stay in touch with my roots...

Thank God for the ocean and for Fridays.

Great Demonstrations of Generosity

I've recently encountered great demonstrations of generosity in both my friends and family. I do not know how to properly thank someone who demonstrates such generosity. It is not the just the money, it is the gesture. The gesture of support. I would not be anywhere I am today if not for all the supportive people in my life. Thank you! THANK you! Thank YOU! THANK YOU!

I think I am a model

Here's a lame picure of me in Balboa Park.
But isn't it always lame when you get a picture taken of yourself all alone in the frame?

I'd like to take this moment to announce my purchase of a digital camera. I am very excited about this - and the blog should be a bit spicier now...let's hope.

German Music?

It's difficult to find German music...even on this German radio station. Most of the music on the station is American, or British. I guess German is not the most musical or poetic language. But the greatest music really did come from German speaking composers - Bach, Beethoven, Handel...what happened to German music since then? Down the drain. There is a glimmer of hope...

My favorite German musicians:

Xavier Naidoo

Die Fantastischen Vier / an article in English about them
- will be in Munich on November 24th - might have to catch that!

(My attempt at consistency...)

German Phrase of the Day:

Traurig, aber wahr!
Sad, but true!

Don't Be Alarmed

Don't be alarmed. I just changed the template of my blog. The content remains the same. C'mon now, don't judge a book by its cover...

Daily Rambling of an Eternal Optimist

Lately, I have been posed one specific question quite frequently. Are you nervous? (Of course referring to my upcoming trip) I have decided upon a good ole optimistic response. The only reason to be really nervous would be if I were dreading something. I prefer to use the word excited. There are positive and negative aspects to everything and no decisions are without both negative and positive consequences. It is unavoidable. Therefore, it is more appropriate to try to limit the amount of negative consequences when making decisions. But when that is not even possible, it can be useful to resist dwelling on the negative by focusing on the positive. This is my chosen method when approaching my trip to Munich. The negative aspects of this decision are obvious - missing my family, my friends, my school. Let me try with the postitive ones now: personal growth, new perspective on life, new sense of independence and self-confidence, new friends, develop fluency in German, gain international experience for my resume, become more culturally aware... Choices in life will never be cut and dry - they will always be blurry. The blur is not a hindrance. The blur gives me the opportunity to use my God-given intelligence to weigh the consequences. This is the greatest opportunity for personal growth.

(I fear that I might have been oversimplifying the 'positive v. negative aspects of all decisions' argument. The reality of it is that all of these aspects are further divisible into more positive and negative parts. So a decision can be overtly positive, while it's consequences are divided among both positive and negative aspects. These aspects can then be further divided into both positive and negative elements. I may have made that sound like chemistry...I guess that's my attempt at a metaphor. I'm horrible with metaphors! I think the Dalai Lama could better explain it, but he's not here right now.)

Traffic is a blessing. I know that statement is contrary to many beliefs that I have previously expressed, but that's because this is a new revelation. When it comes to traffic, I have always dwelled on the negative aspects for lack of positive ones to focus on. Now I have found it. Traffic slows me down. This is very important due to my recent realization that I drive too fast. The traffic that slows me down, could end up saving my life - allowing me more time with my loved ones. That's about as positive as it gets. I wonder why I was so oblivious of this until now...

Thank you Jackie. Our conversation yesterday reminded me of a fundamental truth about life. She passed down her wisdom - it was powerful. The truth that I speak of and that Jackie taught me about - People can change. It seems so obvious when it is written out like that, but I sometimes find myself becoming disillusioned with humanity. This disillusionment threatens to spoil my optimistic outlook on life. Humanity, being a creation of God, cannot be the source of all evil. Evil does often emerge from people, but people can change. As long as people can change, the world can change. Again, I need to thank Jackie for restoring my hope. Hope that the world can change to become the place that I imagine it to be. My hope was not gone, it was just temporarily forgotten. Because through God, my hope is irrepresible. Irrepresible hope.

Wow, I sure did get deep today. I have a tendency to do that...so let me lighten it up for a sec:

German phrase of the day:

Mach dir sich keine Sorgen.
Don't worry about it.

Family Celebration

I spent Saturday at the beach with my family. The water was unbelievably warm and it was great fun. I will truly miss the beach this upcoming year, as I'm sure I will miss it every time I leave it - for the rest of my life.

Today was spent up in HB with my family. One could call it a Going Away Party, but it was very lowkey - just how I like it. The cake was amazing. It depicted a globe with an airplane in the middle. Across the plane 'Viel Glueck' was written ('good luck' in German). My grandparents, my aunt and uncle, my mom, dad, and brother were all among the esteemed guests of this shindig. It was great fun.

I got to see my favorite little cousin, which was awesome. At two years old, his laughter and smile can really light up my day! His comments are really hilarious as well. For example: "It's boken, I fix it. I fix it." Turns out, he was referring to the slit in my skirt! It was humorous, to say the least, but also so cute that he was offering to help me with this apparent problem.

It is so comforting to know how much support everyone is giving me for my trip. I know that this is what I am supposed to do, but I have trouble convincing myself of this sometimes. The support of my loving family and friends is what really convinces me.

On a lighter note, I experienced a random sitcom-moment this evening (I tend to observe and point these out often - go ahead and ignore this if you hate sitcoms). I had a ring stuck on my finger - don't ask how this happened - for a couple days now. It was really starting to hurt and my finger was actually swelling. So after many failed attempts, I pulled out all the stops in order to assure that I would succeed today. I soaked my finger in ice water for 10 minutes, my purpose being to shrink my hand (How often will I be able to say that?). Then I ran to the sink and put soap on my finger, while my mom pulled desperately at the ring. It took my brother's assistance to eventually remove the ring. The three of us pulling at my swollen finger in the kitchen must have been an odd sight. I had to laugh it off as just another sitcom-moment. Now, I feel so relieved to have that damn ring off of my finger. I feel like Frodo...

It was actually nice to share this sitcom-moment with my family. Perhaps when Teresa and I finally write our sitcom, this incident can be included. Don't hold your breath.

JYM Video

I found this video online. It is a promo video for my program in Munich with JYM (Junior Year in Munich). I really enjoyed the video, so I thought I would post the link in case anyone else was bored.

JYM Promo Video

The video was made by the cool kid Tyler - his website is worth checking out too.

Happy Birthday Teresa / Suburban Warrior Syndrome

Well, I must start off with a shout out to Teresa. Happy Birthday Chica! Feliz Cumpleanos! Alles Gute zum Geburtstag! My little Teresita gives us all a reason to celebrate September 11th! (I'm posting this now because of the time difference - it's already her birthday where she is) I will toast to Teresa with my morning cup of coffee!

I was just reading my new copy of Psychology Today - my new favorite magazine, along with Budget Traveler - and I came across an article that described me to a tee. Often times I refer to myself as having a 'superhero-complex,' which Psychology Today calls 'Suburban Warrior Syndrome.' The article is very interesting and I hope they soon put in up on their website (currently the website just has articles from the previous issue).

Here's a quote from the article:

(We pine) for days when life seemed to be constructed around heroic deeds rather than menial mouse click.

Just for clarification, the author of the article does not find this syndrome to be unheathly. Therefore, I will proudly confess to my 'superhero-complex'/'suburban warrior syndrome' - whatever you choose to call it.

Well, that's enough psychoanalysis for now, but I'm sure this magazine will provoke much more in the future.

Posting a Picture in My Blog

Wow. I just learned how to post a picture in my Blog. This is definitely a good development seeing as though I am still incapable of updating my website. Computers can be evil...but I found a loophole and will now still be able to show everyone my pictures from Munich.

I have been practicing my German in preparation for my departure. However, the only person I have to practice with is myself. Good thing I enjoy talking to myself, otherwise it would be weird.

Even with my recent attempts at practicing my German (which I should have been doing all summer), I know that I will be one of the worst German speakers of my group. Being the optimist that I am, I have concluded that this will be opportunity for personal growth. Let me explain: Many people would be able to point out (probably only behind my back) that I can be a cocky ass at times. This arrogance stems most directly from academics. Therefore, if I (at least at the beginning) find myself as one of the worst in my class, it will be a grand humbling experience. Let's hope that I will be able to embrace this experience while it is happening, instead of being overcome with frustration.

Well, I am still so proud of myself for figuring out how to post a picture on my blog. Speaking of pride, I am extremely proud of my brother, who last night participated in his very first water polo match. I wish I had the courage to try such a new and different sport in high school. He's not one to waste the famed Kelner athleticism...my brother is such a stud!

Die Studentenstadt - The Student City - where I will be living in Munich. 

'Freaking Out!'

Ok, so I am leaving the country, my family, my friends, my home, and everything inbetween in exactly 2 weeks. I am freaking out!!! You see, this fact just hit me yesterday, so I'm slowly coping with the urgency of it all.

I'm not really sure what constitutes 'freaking out' in its generally accepted sense, but I will tell you my definition. When I am 'freaking out,' there are usually some physical reactions that I cannot control. For instance, right now I am experiencing shortness of breath along with endless thoughts racing through my mind. I would definitely classify this as 'freaking out.' Often times, when 'freaking out,' I find my emotions taking control of my body. This is not a comforting feeling and it definitely exacerbates my condition. It's quite cyclical...but if you ask me, most things are cyclical. C'mon, try me. Name something, anything, and I'll explain to you the cyclical nature of it. Deepthi seems to have a theory on dualities, but I have a theory on cycles...hmmm...I will further develop this theory and get back to it at a later date. I am too busy 'freaking out' to think clearly.

Other things that have induced a state of 'freaking out' recently:
-Discussing my basketball team's last game of my senior year...whew...don't get me started about this one...
-Having to go back to work after having an entire week off...it's like pulling hairs!! (ok, that might be the first time that I have ever used that phrase...I'm not sure how I feel about it...)
-Oh, and whenever I see the video for Bonecrusher - I Ain't Never Scared...AHHHHH!! It just irks me!!! It's completely irrational, but that guy causes me to 'freak out' just at the sight of him.

Well, all I can say, is you better pray that you never have to see me 'freaking out' - it ain't pretty. (A better way to insure this is to never bring up the aformentioned incidences, as this will not only cause me to 'freak out,' but I will be inclined to see you as a provoker...furthering the cycle...) Wow, this post is sure giving everyone a better understanding of the innerworkings of Courtney's mind (if that's possible).

On a lighter note, here's an excerpt from an interesting conversation of mine:

ME: Wanna know something weird?

My Mother: Maybe.

ME: I know exactly what I would wear if someone were to call me
up and say, 'Courtney, it is time to save the world.'

My Mother: Really?

ME: ....(actual description has been omited for security reasons)

My Brother: That's stupid!

ME: Oh yeah? What would you wear then?

My Brother: A cape!

This not only provides evidence for my severe 'superhero-complex,' but also my failure to state the obvious. My brother is much more gifted at this and at observation in general.

Well, I must get back to 'freaking out' - let's hope it's not as long between posts this time!

California DMV

Today I had the privilege of taking my brother to the DMV so he can be one step closer to obtaining his license. My brother suprised me by missing only one question on the written test. The DMV is such a wretched place, and no one can get out of it. Well, maybe Brad Pitt, but I'm not sure. They probably have a special Bev Hills DMV that has private rooms or something.

Californian culture is such a driving culture. I love to drive and embrace this aspect of California. Traffic, on the other hand, is a horrible reflection of this driving culture that has yet to be avoided. It seems that most people favor the freedom of driving over avoiding traffic. Is this rational? Not too sure about that.

I will have to spend the next year without a car. Most likely, I will not know anyone with a car. This might be somewhat of a culture shock, but I am excited to delve into the world of public transportation. I hope Munich's public transportation doesn't disappoint me in inclimate weather.