On Tuesday I woke up early to go to the airport with Roman and Tiin. We drove there and then were able to sit for a few minutes and have some coffee and water. After we finished, the three of us gave hugs and said see you later and then I left them to head toward my gate.
I was stopped before leaving because I had been in Switzerland for longer than the permitted 90 days and had to fill out some paperwork. The officer was nice to me though and made sure that I was through in plenty of time, so as not to miss my flight. I was to my gate in plenty of time and takeoff was pretty close to on time.
On the flight, I sat next to a nice lady who shared her chocolate and stories with me. I was able to read some of my book and then watch two movies and a couple of TV shows. I landed around 12:30pm in JFK and then had to go through customs there and collect my bags to take them across the airport to a different terminal. They were really heavy and it was very hard to roll three bags, but I had some help along the way and got to my next gate in plenty of time. I boarded there and headed to Cleveland.
My mom was waiting for me at the airport around 4:45pm and we were so excited to see each other. I got my bags, which luckily the one did not rip open any more than it had that morning, and she brought me home. Jessica and Eric ran outside to see me when we pulled into our driveway, shortly followed by my dad and Grandma Carol. They brought me inside and made me walk alone into my new room. I love it! They painted it, put in new flooring, gave me a nice new rug, set up my bed, dresser, and bookshelf, and even painted a red accent wall! I was sooo happy :-)
Greevy stopped by a little afterwards and I gave everyone their presents and shared the Swiss chocolate with them. My whole family might end up addicted to the chocolate haha
We talked the whole evening, had dinner, and by ten I was completely exhausted. I headed to bed and could not believe how fast the last four months had flown by.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
9/26/11
Monday morning I went to school again. I wanted to give the kids something as a "thank you" for letting me join their class for a few weeks, so after I rode my bike there, Roman dropped off croissants and chocolate. They were very happy.
I came back for lunch and headed to Wil with Roman for a Swiss Army knife because I had to get one from Switzerland, of course. Roman had me drop him off at work and then I drove home from there. I packed a little and then headed back to school for the afternoon classes. It was hard to say goodbye to the kids and Jose, but I was so happy to have met them all. They are really good students, which is nice because Jose is a great teacher.
After I rode back to the farm, I went and picked Roman up from work, after missing the street, and stopped by Uschi's to say goodbye. She said a lot of nice things to me in German, which I understood :-) and I did the best I could to respond.
When we got back to the Lehmanns', I helped Nadja prepare the raclette for dinner and then everyone showed up. It was Tiin, Daniela, Cony, Peter, Nadja, Andi, Roman, and me. Everything was delicious and I really hated all of the goodbyes, but so did everyone else, so we made them into "see you later"s instead.
I have to pack the last of my stuff because I leave bright and early tomorrow morning for home.
Guet Nacht
I came back for lunch and headed to Wil with Roman for a Swiss Army knife because I had to get one from Switzerland, of course. Roman had me drop him off at work and then I drove home from there. I packed a little and then headed back to school for the afternoon classes. It was hard to say goodbye to the kids and Jose, but I was so happy to have met them all. They are really good students, which is nice because Jose is a great teacher.
After I rode back to the farm, I went and picked Roman up from work, after missing the street, and stopped by Uschi's to say goodbye. She said a lot of nice things to me in German, which I understood :-) and I did the best I could to respond.
When we got back to the Lehmanns', I helped Nadja prepare the raclette for dinner and then everyone showed up. It was Tiin, Daniela, Cony, Peter, Nadja, Andi, Roman, and me. Everything was delicious and I really hated all of the goodbyes, but so did everyone else, so we made them into "see you later"s instead.
I have to pack the last of my stuff because I leave bright and early tomorrow morning for home.
Guet Nacht
Sunday, September 25, 2011
9/25/11
Sunday morning I woke up early again and Tiin picked Roman and me up so that we could hike the Säntis. We met Chanti, Jrene, Jayme, and Daniela at different parking lots and headed to Appenzell. The seven of us parked at the bottom of the mountain and started our hike around 9:15am. We were lucky because it was a really nice day for hiking. We stopped a few times on the way and sat down for a drink at one of the restaurants on the mountain. After the pit stop, the last part of the hike was my favorite. It was pretty rocky and gorgeous all around and about the last 300 feet of the hike is basically climbing up the side of the rock wall with cables for support on both sides that you can hold on to. We made it to the top by 1pm and I would definitely do it again.
At the top, we took a few pictures, had a snack, and then took the cable car back down to the bottom. We drove back and all had to shower and get ready quickly because the Devils were meeting in only an hour for a going away dinner for me. Luckily, we all made it in time and headed to The Pirates, which is about a 35 minute drive. At dinner, there were twelve of us: ten girls from the team, including me, and Tiin and Roman. To our surprise, Jacky even ended up making it all the way from Mexico! We were all a little confused, but then she explained that she was home for a week, I think because she was presented an award, and happened to be going to The Pirates the same night at the same time. How lucky!
The team gave me a ball they all signed, a Swiss flag, and a Devils sweatshirt. I am going to miss them all so much. Saying goodbye after dinner was pretty sad, but I am so happy that I got the chance to meet every one of them :-)
Tiin drove Roman, Nadja, Chanti, and me back to our cars and then Roman and I headed back to the farm. Now it is time for me to get some sleep because tomorrow is a busy day for me. Goodnight!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
9/24/11
Saturday morning I woke up early and Tiin picked me up to meet Jrene and Moni on our way to the championship softball game. The Lucerne Eagles played the Therwil Flyers and won. Tiin umpired while Jrene, Moni, and I watched.
After the game, we made the hour and a half drive back home. Tiin dropped me off at the farm and I edited some pictures before going with Roman to buy Swiss chocolate for my family. My sister might be more happy about the chocolate than about me returning haha
When Roman and I got back, we went with Nadja to watch Tobel play soccer down the road. We were only able to see the second half and, to be honest, I do not even know what the score was because I was too busy eating.
Nadja dropped us back at the farm on her way home and we watched TV in the restaurant. Tiin stopped by and he and Roman helped me translate a lot of German. I will miss hearing everyone speak it in a few days.
I have to sleep now because we are hiking the Säntis tomorrow!
9/23/11
Happy Birthday Taylor, Ali, Wallace, and cousin Wes!!
Friday morning I went to school again. I like it, in case you could not already tell. I was there for English and German in the morning and learned a little about German grammar that does not even exist in English...it was hard.
After the morning classes ended, I rode my bike back to the farm to have lunch. I decided that I wanted to go back for the afternoon classes as well, so I rode back around 1:30. I was there for geometry and art. When the school day was finished, I talked with Jose for a little while and then headed back home.
When Roman got back from work, he and I went to a restaurant nearby to meet two of the guys from his shooting club because they were taking me shooting. The four of us headed to a shooting range about fifteen minutes away. When we got there, I was asked if I had any experience shooting. Other than pellet guns, I had not. There I was able to shoot with a Beretta, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, Desert Eagle, and a Swiss Army rifle. Roman kept laughing at me because he could tell that a was having a lot of fun. He said I did well and according to the targets, I believe him. Before we left, I was asked if I was sure that I had never shot a gun before haha
The four of us met Uschi and some friends at a bar afterwards, where we had a little bit to eat and played cards. By then I was super tired and we headed home so that I could sleep.
Friday morning I went to school again. I like it, in case you could not already tell. I was there for English and German in the morning and learned a little about German grammar that does not even exist in English...it was hard.
After the morning classes ended, I rode my bike back to the farm to have lunch. I decided that I wanted to go back for the afternoon classes as well, so I rode back around 1:30. I was there for geometry and art. When the school day was finished, I talked with Jose for a little while and then headed back home.
When Roman got back from work, he and I went to a restaurant nearby to meet two of the guys from his shooting club because they were taking me shooting. The four of us headed to a shooting range about fifteen minutes away. When we got there, I was asked if I had any experience shooting. Other than pellet guns, I had not. There I was able to shoot with a Beretta, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, Desert Eagle, and a Swiss Army rifle. Roman kept laughing at me because he could tell that a was having a lot of fun. He said I did well and according to the targets, I believe him. Before we left, I was asked if I was sure that I had never shot a gun before haha
The four of us met Uschi and some friends at a bar afterwards, where we had a little bit to eat and played cards. By then I was super tired and we headed home so that I could sleep.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
9/22/11
On Thursday morning I woke up and got ready for school again. I really appreciate that Jose lets me come to his class whenever I am able. The kids are all so nice to me too. They were learning more math today and I listened intently, trying to pick up any words that I could. After the lesson, I talked with Jose for awhile about German grammar until he needed to leave for a drum lesson.
I rode my bike back and then waited for Tiin to pick me up for lunch at his parents' house. It was a wonderful lunch as usual and then they even gave me a present! His mom told me that it was because she wanted me to remember them, which I thought was so nice but unnecessary because I of course will never forget them!
After lunch, Tiin dropped me back off at the farm and I talked with Christof, Cony, and their cousin, Manu in the kitchen for a little bit before I went out to clean the tables in the restaurant. Around 6:30pm, Andi got to the restaurant. He was the last person I needed for the group picture I have been trying to get all summer now. Everyone was able to go in the backyard and I finally got my pictures, which made me so happy!
After the family pictures, Roman and I met Daniela for dinner. We talked about a lot of things and then she had to leave to get to bed because she is going to Barcelona with her work tomorrow. I am excited for her, but happy that she will be back by Sunday night so that I have time to say goodbye to her.
Roman and I headed back to the farm after dinner and helped clean everything before heading inside to get some sleep.
I rode my bike back and then waited for Tiin to pick me up for lunch at his parents' house. It was a wonderful lunch as usual and then they even gave me a present! His mom told me that it was because she wanted me to remember them, which I thought was so nice but unnecessary because I of course will never forget them!
After lunch, Tiin dropped me back off at the farm and I talked with Christof, Cony, and their cousin, Manu in the kitchen for a little bit before I went out to clean the tables in the restaurant. Around 6:30pm, Andi got to the restaurant. He was the last person I needed for the group picture I have been trying to get all summer now. Everyone was able to go in the backyard and I finally got my pictures, which made me so happy!
After the family pictures, Roman and I met Daniela for dinner. We talked about a lot of things and then she had to leave to get to bed because she is going to Barcelona with her work tomorrow. I am excited for her, but happy that she will be back by Sunday night so that I have time to say goodbye to her.
Roman and I headed back to the farm after dinner and helped clean everything before heading inside to get some sleep.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
9/21/11
Wednesday morning I woke up in Munich and had breakfast with T and Mascha. I especially enjoyed Mascha's homemade tea and coffee. I am very happy that T has stayed with such wonderful people.
After I showered, T went to the train station with me. We rode to the central station and then we said goodbye, until the alumni weekend at NU in two and a half weeks. I took the train back to Wil and was able to do some reading during the ride.
Once I arrived in Wil, Roman picked me up and brought me back to the farm. After he was finished with work, we brought the dirndl and lederhosen back to the costume store that we rented them from. The dirndl was the dress that I wore and lederhosen means "leather pants," which is what the men wear.
It was time for practice when we returned and Tiin picked me up. There were only four of us girls there today, so we played games the whole time. It was a fun practice and then Tiin brought me back. I had some dinner, puts pictures on facebook, and then headed to bed.
After I showered, T went to the train station with me. We rode to the central station and then we said goodbye, until the alumni weekend at NU in two and a half weeks. I took the train back to Wil and was able to do some reading during the ride.
Once I arrived in Wil, Roman picked me up and brought me back to the farm. After he was finished with work, we brought the dirndl and lederhosen back to the costume store that we rented them from. The dirndl was the dress that I wore and lederhosen means "leather pants," which is what the men wear.
It was time for practice when we returned and Tiin picked me up. There were only four of us girls there today, so we played games the whole time. It was a fun practice and then Tiin brought me back. I had some dinner, puts pictures on facebook, and then headed to bed.
9/20/11
Happy Birthday Tanja :-)
On Tuesday T and I woke up early again because this time we had to get ready to drive to Munich for Oktoberfest! After leaving the Lehmann house, Roman, Nadja, Andi, T, and I drove to pick up the rest of the Devils who were joining us.
During the drive, our van full of girls, and two guys, managed to get many braids done haha There was nail polish and hair spray throughout the van and it was funny that Roman and Andi were able to be a part of the shenanigans. Once we arrived in Munich, we parked the van and headed toward the party. T had to stop at her house and change first, but she was able to meet us in the first tent that we stopped at. There were sooo many people there, but it was a lot of fun.
The whole place was set up with around eight different, giant, tents. In every tent people were singing and clinking glasses together and just having a great time. After being there for a few hours, a few of us headed toward a roller coaster that was similar to the Power Tower at Cedar Point and even had the same name. We were able to see the whole festival from the top and the ride was fun. After we were finished with that, we had a shooting contest. We won a little stuffed lion and gave it to Tanja because it was her birthday.
Soon after that, we met up with the rest of our group in another tent and continued the festivities. T had to leave for practice while we were in that tent, but I was going to meet up with her later so it was alright. I had a lot of fun with Nadja, Andi, Roman, Claudia, Jrene, Chanti, Tanja, Moni, T, and Jayme all day and was very happy so many of us were there.
When it was time to leave, I took the train back to T's house and everyone else rode in the van back to Switzerland. I was able to talk with Franky for a little while before going to bed because T was in the shower and then she and I headed to bed. I was exhausted!
On Tuesday T and I woke up early again because this time we had to get ready to drive to Munich for Oktoberfest! After leaving the Lehmann house, Roman, Nadja, Andi, T, and I drove to pick up the rest of the Devils who were joining us.
During the drive, our van full of girls, and two guys, managed to get many braids done haha There was nail polish and hair spray throughout the van and it was funny that Roman and Andi were able to be a part of the shenanigans. Once we arrived in Munich, we parked the van and headed toward the party. T had to stop at her house and change first, but she was able to meet us in the first tent that we stopped at. There were sooo many people there, but it was a lot of fun.
The whole place was set up with around eight different, giant, tents. In every tent people were singing and clinking glasses together and just having a great time. After being there for a few hours, a few of us headed toward a roller coaster that was similar to the Power Tower at Cedar Point and even had the same name. We were able to see the whole festival from the top and the ride was fun. After we were finished with that, we had a shooting contest. We won a little stuffed lion and gave it to Tanja because it was her birthday.
Soon after that, we met up with the rest of our group in another tent and continued the festivities. T had to leave for practice while we were in that tent, but I was going to meet up with her later so it was alright. I had a lot of fun with Nadja, Andi, Roman, Claudia, Jrene, Chanti, Tanja, Moni, T, and Jayme all day and was very happy so many of us were there.
When it was time to leave, I took the train back to T's house and everyone else rode in the van back to Switzerland. I was able to talk with Franky for a little while before going to bed because T was in the shower and then she and I headed to bed. I was exhausted!
Monday, September 19, 2011
9/19/11
Monday morning T and I woke up early to catch the train to take us down to Zermatt to see the Matterhorn. We brought a yogurt each with us and were off.
The two of us each slept for a little while and then woke up to enjoy the scenery a little. It was a pretty foggy day, but everything was still pretty. Once we arrived, we found a place to eat lunch and enjoyed some cheese fondue, raclette, and ice cream for dessert. It was delicious and then we made our way further down the road to see if the sky would clear enough for us to see the Matterhorn.
It was completely hidden at first, but we had plenty of time and decided to wait because it looked like the clouds might clear for a little while. The two of us did manage to see the outline of it, but it was pretty hard for our cameras to get a good picture with how bright the clouds were making the pictures. We were satisfied though because at least we saw it!
After waiting a little while longer and taking some more pictures, we headed back down the road toward the train station. We stopped in the little shops along the way and bought some drinks and chocolate for the ride back. We had to change trains twice on the way back, which was not bad at all, and I really wanted french fries during one of our stops so I made T walk to the nearest McDonald's with me hahaha
That was a little bit ridiculous, but it was nice to have some food for the ride back. We were able to read and listen to music while enjoying the scenery. It was a very good day and then Roman picked us up in a town about fifteen minutes from Tobel because we needed to pick up the van we are riding to Oktoberfest in tomorrow from that same town anyway. Everything worked out very well and then we went to bed.
The two of us each slept for a little while and then woke up to enjoy the scenery a little. It was a pretty foggy day, but everything was still pretty. Once we arrived, we found a place to eat lunch and enjoyed some cheese fondue, raclette, and ice cream for dessert. It was delicious and then we made our way further down the road to see if the sky would clear enough for us to see the Matterhorn.
It was completely hidden at first, but we had plenty of time and decided to wait because it looked like the clouds might clear for a little while. The two of us did manage to see the outline of it, but it was pretty hard for our cameras to get a good picture with how bright the clouds were making the pictures. We were satisfied though because at least we saw it!
After waiting a little while longer and taking some more pictures, we headed back down the road toward the train station. We stopped in the little shops along the way and bought some drinks and chocolate for the ride back. We had to change trains twice on the way back, which was not bad at all, and I really wanted french fries during one of our stops so I made T walk to the nearest McDonald's with me hahaha
That was a little bit ridiculous, but it was nice to have some food for the ride back. We were able to read and listen to music while enjoying the scenery. It was a very good day and then Roman picked us up in a town about fifteen minutes from Tobel because we needed to pick up the van we are riding to Oktoberfest in tomorrow from that same town anyway. Everything worked out very well and then we went to bed.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
9/18/11
Happy Birthday Jessi!!!!
Sunday was my sister's birthday, so T and I slept in for her haha After we finally got up and got going, Roman took us to race go karts. The three of us had talked about it the last time that T visited, but we had only been able to drive his one at a time. It was just a little track, but it was still fun. Roman won by a lot.
The three of us headed to Uschi's afterwards for dinner. It was so good and T and I tried pumpkin soup for the first time...yum! We watched some tv for a little while after dinner and then went to Tiin's so that he could help T and I figure out which trains we should take tomorrow when we visit the Matterhorn.
Roman, T, and I went and got ice cream at the place Nadja took me to a week or two ago and then headed home. We watched Transformers 2 and then we went to sleep.
Sunday was my sister's birthday, so T and I slept in for her haha After we finally got up and got going, Roman took us to race go karts. The three of us had talked about it the last time that T visited, but we had only been able to drive his one at a time. It was just a little track, but it was still fun. Roman won by a lot.
The three of us headed to Uschi's afterwards for dinner. It was so good and T and I tried pumpkin soup for the first time...yum! We watched some tv for a little while after dinner and then went to Tiin's so that he could help T and I figure out which trains we should take tomorrow when we visit the Matterhorn.
Roman, T, and I went and got ice cream at the place Nadja took me to a week or two ago and then headed home. We watched Transformers 2 and then we went to sleep.
9/17/11
On Saturday, I woke up early and Roman drove me to Lucerne to umpire. The games were pretty long because the teams seemed to be pretty evenly matched. The second game even went to nine innings and made us late picking up T from the train station.
We got back to pick her up in Tobel around 5:45pm and then drove back to the farm so that I could shower. After I was clean, she and I headed to the Devils Club BBQ. It was nice and a lot of the girls from my team were there. We had some dinner and talked with them for awhile, but then we were both tired. We gave Jrene and Tanja a ride to the train station and headed back to go to bed.
We got back to pick her up in Tobel around 5:45pm and then drove back to the farm so that I could shower. After I was clean, she and I headed to the Devils Club BBQ. It was nice and a lot of the girls from my team were there. We had some dinner and talked with them for awhile, but then we were both tired. We gave Jrene and Tanja a ride to the train station and headed back to go to bed.
9/16/11
On Friday, I woke up and went to school again. I was there for English and German classes that day. Jose had the kids write and ask me questions for their English lesson. The kids and Jose are really nice to me so I have a really good time when I go to school. I was there for a couple of hours and then headed back for lunch.
After lunch, I cleaned the restaurant and then came back inside and filled out a few job applications. I went out and helped with a few customers, read a little of my book, had dinner, and then it was time to go to the Lehmanns' cousin's birthday party.
Roman and I drove to Manu's house, which is about half an hour away, and talked with her and their other cousin at the party for a couple of hours. I had to umpire in the morning though so we left around eleven to come back to the farm.
After lunch, I cleaned the restaurant and then came back inside and filled out a few job applications. I went out and helped with a few customers, read a little of my book, had dinner, and then it was time to go to the Lehmanns' cousin's birthday party.
Roman and I drove to Manu's house, which is about half an hour away, and talked with her and their other cousin at the party for a couple of hours. I had to umpire in the morning though so we left around eleven to come back to the farm.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
9/15/11
Thursday morning I woke up and got ready for school with Jose again. I went to two periods of math in the morning and learned a little more about how to speak and read German. I also learned, by accident, that British and American English use different singular and plural forms of some nouns. That is kind of a long story and plus I do not even know if I can explain the rules, so you will just have to trust me.
After school I came back to the farm and took a very short nap because I was freezing and my blankets were so comfy. I woke up in time for lunch and ate with the family. After lunch, I talked with T, tried to google translate some things that took way too long, and then briefly looked for jobs.
Roman got home from work around five and we picked up Uschi and dropped her off at her work while we visited Peter at the hospital. He had thumb surgery yesterday and comes home tomorrow hopefully.
When we left the hospital, we picked Uschi up and headed to a bar that I have been to a few times with them. We played bridge with three of their friends and I won five of the six games we played. They said maybe next time I will not be invited hahaha
After cards, Roman and I headed back to the farm and I was able to chat with Nicole and Greevy for a few minutes before heading to bed. Gute Nacht!
After school I came back to the farm and took a very short nap because I was freezing and my blankets were so comfy. I woke up in time for lunch and ate with the family. After lunch, I talked with T, tried to google translate some things that took way too long, and then briefly looked for jobs.
Roman got home from work around five and we picked up Uschi and dropped her off at her work while we visited Peter at the hospital. He had thumb surgery yesterday and comes home tomorrow hopefully.
When we left the hospital, we picked Uschi up and headed to a bar that I have been to a few times with them. We played bridge with three of their friends and I won five of the six games we played. They said maybe next time I will not be invited hahaha
After cards, Roman and I headed back to the farm and I was able to chat with Nicole and Greevy for a few minutes before heading to bed. Gute Nacht!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
9/14/11
Wednesday morning I got up and got ready for lunch at Tiin's parents' house. He picked me up just before twelve and we headed over. It was delicious, as always, and then his mom brought me back to the farm. I am happy that I am able to understand most of what they talk about at lunch. I still want to find a tutor or German class when I get home though in order to learn more.
I vacuumed the restaurant after a little while and then read some more of The Lord of the Rings. While reading however, I fell asleep. Roman woke me up after about an hour when he got home from work because we had to go try on outfits for Oktoberfest. He found some lederhosen and I found a dirndl, so now we are all set for next week.
I drove us back to the farm and then Tiin picked me up for practice. We played games at practice today. First a throwing game that I always played at Elyria High and then we scrimmaged, but going the wrong way around the bases first, then batting from the opposite side, and then normal. It was fun.
Tiin brought me back to the farm and I had some dinner. Then I headed to bed.
I vacuumed the restaurant after a little while and then read some more of The Lord of the Rings. While reading however, I fell asleep. Roman woke me up after about an hour when he got home from work because we had to go try on outfits for Oktoberfest. He found some lederhosen and I found a dirndl, so now we are all set for next week.
I drove us back to the farm and then Tiin picked me up for practice. We played games at practice today. First a throwing game that I always played at Elyria High and then we scrimmaged, but going the wrong way around the bases first, then batting from the opposite side, and then normal. It was fun.
Tiin brought me back to the farm and I had some dinner. Then I headed to bed.
9/13/11
Tuesday morning I slept in. When I got up, I showered and had lunch. Then Nadja and I headed to Säntis Park for the day. We only went through the sauna, cold pool, lay out cycle twice because we fell asleep both times we laid out, but it was very relaxing and we even got a tan!
When we got back to the farm, I edited my pictures from the last week and a half and then headed out for a drink with Roman to meet Uschi. We were there for about an hour and then went to another bar to meet Tiin and Daniela. It was an Irish pub and I was excited. After about an hour and a half there, we all headed home.
On the way, Roman and I stopped at McDonald's haha I was hungry and wanted french fries. When we were finished eating we drove home. It was time for bed.
When we got back to the farm, I edited my pictures from the last week and a half and then headed out for a drink with Roman to meet Uschi. We were there for about an hour and then went to another bar to meet Tiin and Daniela. It was an Irish pub and I was excited. After about an hour and a half there, we all headed home.
On the way, Roman and I stopped at McDonald's haha I was hungry and wanted french fries. When we were finished eating we drove home. It was time for bed.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
9/12/11
Happy Birthday Debbie!
Monday morning I got ready and then had lunch with the family. After lunch, I talked with T for a bit and then headed to the school where Jose works to try and learn some more German.
It took about fifteen minutes to walk there and I went up to his classroom. There was a student teacher named Sarah that would also be attending class that day and it was nice to meet her. I first learned what I could from the history lesson, that was in German, about the number of emigrants from different European countries that headed to the US. I could not understand everything, but I understood a good amount and it was interesting.
Music was next and dancing came first. A few line dances played, such as "Cotton Eyed Joe," and then we had to get partners. I was partners with Sarah and we did pretty well. After dancing came singing. I did not know the first song because it was in German, but then we sang "Imagine" by John Lennon. I was very happy about that and Jose even asked me to translate one of the lines for the kids. I got one word wrong, but it was close and the rest was correct I think. He told the kids that I had not had a single German class, so that made me feel pretty good.
After music, each of the students talked a little bit about the jobs that they had visited the week before. I did not really understand much of anything that they said during this period, but they were pretty technical words I think so I did not feel so bad.
When school ended after that period, I had the class take a picture with me. School was fun and I think that I am heading back again this week. Jose gave me his schedule so I am all set.
Roman was driving home from work when I started walking back, so I caught a ride with him. He brought me back to the farm and I had some dinner and headed to practice with Nadja. We did some defense and then had a little scrimmage with hitting practice. Tiin brought me back when we were finished and I sat out at the restaurant for a while to celebrate Debbie's birthday with everyone. After some french fries and a few "Happy Birthdays" I headed to bed.
Monday morning I got ready and then had lunch with the family. After lunch, I talked with T for a bit and then headed to the school where Jose works to try and learn some more German.
It took about fifteen minutes to walk there and I went up to his classroom. There was a student teacher named Sarah that would also be attending class that day and it was nice to meet her. I first learned what I could from the history lesson, that was in German, about the number of emigrants from different European countries that headed to the US. I could not understand everything, but I understood a good amount and it was interesting.
Music was next and dancing came first. A few line dances played, such as "Cotton Eyed Joe," and then we had to get partners. I was partners with Sarah and we did pretty well. After dancing came singing. I did not know the first song because it was in German, but then we sang "Imagine" by John Lennon. I was very happy about that and Jose even asked me to translate one of the lines for the kids. I got one word wrong, but it was close and the rest was correct I think. He told the kids that I had not had a single German class, so that made me feel pretty good.
After music, each of the students talked a little bit about the jobs that they had visited the week before. I did not really understand much of anything that they said during this period, but they were pretty technical words I think so I did not feel so bad.
When school ended after that period, I had the class take a picture with me. School was fun and I think that I am heading back again this week. Jose gave me his schedule so I am all set.
Roman was driving home from work when I started walking back, so I caught a ride with him. He brought me back to the farm and I had some dinner and headed to practice with Nadja. We did some defense and then had a little scrimmage with hitting practice. Tiin brought me back when we were finished and I sat out at the restaurant for a while to celebrate Debbie's birthday with everyone. After some french fries and a few "Happy Birthdays" I headed to bed.
Monday, September 12, 2011
9/11/11
Thank you and best wishes to all of the people and families affected by this day ten years ago.
On Sunday, I woke up early and Tiin picked me up to go get the van and head to the field to get the rest of the team. We were playing in Lucerne that day and needed to win both games to advance to the finals. The drive takes a little over an hour and a half and we warmed up when we got there.
The game started off alright. We were tied scoreless for a couple innings, but then the Eagles started hitting and we did not. Our defense was pretty strong, but my pitching was not good enough to keep everyone from getting a hit and eventually their runs piled up and we were only able to get one off of their pitcher. In the end we lost, but it was not a bad game, just not quite good enough for us. I had a lot of fun all season though, so hopefully the Devils win next year!
After the games, we headed back in the van. We stopped at a rest stop to get something to drink and I asked Jayme, another American on our team, where she was ten years ago when she heard about the WTC. She remembered her exact class in college and what the professor said to them when he walked in to give them the news. I told her about my 7th grade experience of it and a few of the girls on our team even were asking some questions and giving their own comments as well. It was different experiencing September 11th in another country, but good to know that even though the world remembers it and feels for the families affected, life goes on. Time is a crazy concept.
We were singing on the way back for a little while and then a lot of the girls ended up falling asleep. I really like my team and am very happy I met them all.
A few of the girls, Tiin, and I watched some of the Devils baseball game when we got back to Wil. Then Tiin and I took the van back to the garage and he dropped me off at the farm. After I showered, Roman and I went and visited Peter in the hospital. He crashed his motorcycle racing this weekend and his thumb needs surgery. I was able to say a few sentences to him, which made me happy because I test my German on how well Peter understands what I am saying hahaha
After the visit, the two of us headed to Nadja's for dinner. I spilled everything and felt like T, but luckily they thought it was funny. The four of us watched the end of Fantastic 4 and most of Transformers afterwards and then Roman and I went home because we were exhausted.
9/10/11
On Saturday morning, Tiin picked me up and we headed to the field for our game. We were the first ones there in order to line the field before everyone else got there to set up. I was happy that I still have my groundscrew worker skills in tact hahaha
Once all the girls got there, we set up the field, and the other team arrived, we warmed up and started the game. The Eagles scored on us in top of the first inning, but then we were able to get the runs back in the bottom. However, the rest of the game they kept scoring and we trailed off. We did not have our best game for sure and ended up losing.
Tiin brought me home and I pitched to him for a few minutes to practice for Sunday. Then he left and I went and took a much-needed shower. I headed back out to the restaurant after that and Roman and I took over so that Nadja could leave. It was a pretty slow night and we watched Roger Federer face Novak Djokovic at the US Open. Tiin and Daniela ended up stopping by and we all cheered for Federer, but unfortunately he lost as well.
I helped do the dishes after most people had left and then headed to bed.
Once all the girls got there, we set up the field, and the other team arrived, we warmed up and started the game. The Eagles scored on us in top of the first inning, but then we were able to get the runs back in the bottom. However, the rest of the game they kept scoring and we trailed off. We did not have our best game for sure and ended up losing.
Tiin brought me home and I pitched to him for a few minutes to practice for Sunday. Then he left and I went and took a much-needed shower. I headed back out to the restaurant after that and Roman and I took over so that Nadja could leave. It was a pretty slow night and we watched Roger Federer face Novak Djokovic at the US Open. Tiin and Daniela ended up stopping by and we all cheered for Federer, but unfortunately he lost as well.
I helped do the dishes after most people had left and then headed to bed.
9/9/11
Friday I woke up, got ready, and went with Roman to look for a dirndl for Oktoberfest. Unfortunately, we only found one design in Wil and it was the one Nadja already has, so I did not want to copy her. I think we will try another place though and if that one does not work then Roman's friend has one I can borrow.
We came home, ate lunch, and then I took a nap because I woke up with Popeye, a swollen eye and we called it that when I was little, and it was bothering me. After my nap, I skyped with Greevy and went outside to help in the restaurant.
It was not too busy, except for a big group around nine, but we were ready for them so it went quickly. Cony, Nadja, Roman, and I had everything taken care of and then we were able to get some sleep shortly after they left.
We came home, ate lunch, and then I took a nap because I woke up with Popeye, a swollen eye and we called it that when I was little, and it was bothering me. After my nap, I skyped with Greevy and went outside to help in the restaurant.
It was not too busy, except for a big group around nine, but we were ready for them so it went quickly. Cony, Nadja, Roman, and I had everything taken care of and then we were able to get some sleep shortly after they left.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
9/8/11
Thursday morning I woke up, got ready, and ate lunch with the family like usual. I looked for jobs after this and talked with T and my dad for a little while. After I was finished talking with them, I vacuumed and headed out to the restaurant to help Cony.
I was able to help her make salad and get ready for when people started showing up. After about two hours, I went up to Andreas and Debbie's house to try on a dirndl for Oktoberfest, but unfortunately my rib cage and arms are bigger than Debbie's. I will have to go find one myself as a result.
I helped in the restaurant for the rest of the night and then skyped with Joey and headed to bed.
I was able to help her make salad and get ready for when people started showing up. After about two hours, I went up to Andreas and Debbie's house to try on a dirndl for Oktoberfest, but unfortunately my rib cage and arms are bigger than Debbie's. I will have to go find one myself as a result.
I helped in the restaurant for the rest of the night and then skyped with Joey and headed to bed.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
9/7/11
Wednesday morning I woke up at Nadja's, showered, and then the two of us headed back to the farm. We made desserts for later in the day because the restaurant was expecting people. She showed me how to make chocolate mousse and then I helped with preparing little croissants.
After the family had lunch, I went outside to help set up some of the tables and such for the guests. Around 2pm, Tiin came and picked me up to take me to the field to help with the baseball academy practice. They did mostly hitting and I was able to give them a few tips. Afterwards, we scrimmaged and then I even pitched to them. I did alright for not pitching a baseball in years.
The academy practice ended around six and I stayed at the field until my practice. I was able to talk with Aunt Patti a bit via BBM and then Tiin showed up. He is pretty much always the first one there. I warmed up pitching to him until Chanti and some of the others girls showed up. Once we had all of the equipment and such, Jrene, Chanti, Nadja, and I pitched while everyone else did a little bit of fielding. Situations with positions followed and hitting was last.
Tiin drove me home after practice and I said how strange it felt to be leaving in less than three weeks. I asked him if it is weird when the American girls leave and he said of course. I guess it makes me feel a little better that maybe they will miss me as much as I will miss them and Switzerland.
I was able to have some dinner when I got back and then skype with Patti and my dad. I headed to bed afterwards because I was tired from the day's festivities.
After the family had lunch, I went outside to help set up some of the tables and such for the guests. Around 2pm, Tiin came and picked me up to take me to the field to help with the baseball academy practice. They did mostly hitting and I was able to give them a few tips. Afterwards, we scrimmaged and then I even pitched to them. I did alright for not pitching a baseball in years.
The academy practice ended around six and I stayed at the field until my practice. I was able to talk with Aunt Patti a bit via BBM and then Tiin showed up. He is pretty much always the first one there. I warmed up pitching to him until Chanti and some of the others girls showed up. Once we had all of the equipment and such, Jrene, Chanti, Nadja, and I pitched while everyone else did a little bit of fielding. Situations with positions followed and hitting was last.
Tiin drove me home after practice and I said how strange it felt to be leaving in less than three weeks. I asked him if it is weird when the American girls leave and he said of course. I guess it makes me feel a little better that maybe they will miss me as much as I will miss them and Switzerland.
I was able to have some dinner when I got back and then skype with Patti and my dad. I headed to bed afterwards because I was tired from the day's festivities.
9/6/11
On Tuesday, I woke up and got ready for the day. Around 11:45, I headed over to Tiin's parents' house for lunch. They were having raclette and Tiin, Daniela, and I all joined. I love raclette, but ate way too much. After lunch, I played newspaper number puzzles, like Sudoku, with Tiin's dad. It was fun.
Around 2pm, I headed back to the farm. Nadja asked if I wanted to go get ice cream with her and I, of course, said yes. We went to a little place in Wil and it was sooo good! After we were finished, we headed to the store for some errands and then back to her apartment.
First, Nadja showed me how to make an apple pie, which was a lot easier than I thought, and then the two of us watched the Indians lose to the tigers on Labor Day. After that game was over, we watched some house hunter show and flipped through the channels a bit and then it was time for dinner. We made gnocchi, which was also pretty easy, and it was delicious. By then, Andi was home and the three of us watched a show kind of like American Idol. Nadja and I were able to skype with my parents when Andi went to bed.
Once we were able to talk with my mom, who gave Nadja a tour of our house, and my dad, who Nadja finds funny, we headed to bed.
Around 2pm, I headed back to the farm. Nadja asked if I wanted to go get ice cream with her and I, of course, said yes. We went to a little place in Wil and it was sooo good! After we were finished, we headed to the store for some errands and then back to her apartment.
First, Nadja showed me how to make an apple pie, which was a lot easier than I thought, and then the two of us watched the Indians lose to the tigers on Labor Day. After that game was over, we watched some house hunter show and flipped through the channels a bit and then it was time for dinner. We made gnocchi, which was also pretty easy, and it was delicious. By then, Andi was home and the three of us watched a show kind of like American Idol. Nadja and I were able to skype with my parents when Andi went to bed.
Once we were able to talk with my mom, who gave Nadja a tour of our house, and my dad, who Nadja finds funny, we headed to bed.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
9/5/11
Happy Birthday Amanda!!!!
I woke up this morning, showered, talked with T online, and then ate lunch. After lunch, T and I tested out facebook video chat, which worked pretty well, and then I vacuumed and mopped the restaurant and vacuumed inside.
I went for a walk about an hour and a half before practice and saw Tiin. We went inside his house and talked about how the playoffs work and then I showed him the online games that Nicole and I had played the day before. He did a lot better with the European countries than we did, big surprise haha He did very well with the US states too. After those games it was time for practice. We headed out and grabbed mine and Nadja's bat bags from the farm on the way.
At practice, we worked on fielding, bunting, hitting, and fly balls. I pitched bunting practice to the girls and then Tiin gave me front toss so I could get some hitting in. It was a good practice.
Nadja brought me back to the farm and I had a little something to eat before heading to bed.
I woke up this morning, showered, talked with T online, and then ate lunch. After lunch, T and I tested out facebook video chat, which worked pretty well, and then I vacuumed and mopped the restaurant and vacuumed inside.
I went for a walk about an hour and a half before practice and saw Tiin. We went inside his house and talked about how the playoffs work and then I showed him the online games that Nicole and I had played the day before. He did a lot better with the European countries than we did, big surprise haha He did very well with the US states too. After those games it was time for practice. We headed out and grabbed mine and Nadja's bat bags from the farm on the way.
At practice, we worked on fielding, bunting, hitting, and fly balls. I pitched bunting practice to the girls and then Tiin gave me front toss so I could get some hitting in. It was a good practice.
Nadja brought me back to the farm and I had a little something to eat before heading to bed.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
9/4/11
Sunday started in the afternoon for me because I slept the morning away. After I finally got up, ate, and decided to do something with my life, Roman and I went to a castle not too far away. It was a museum and the inside was set up to look like how it might have when people lived there, but with explanations all over the place. We spent about an hour there and then headed back to the farm.
When we got back, we ate dinner at the restaurant and watched some TV with the few people that were there. Next, I went inside and spent entirely too much time on the computer, but at least it was spent skyping with Nicole. We played addicting games like name the US states, European countries, sports logos, etc. She probably should not have showed me that website though because now I have another way to waste time.
I went to bed and watched a movie after finally getting off of the computer.
When we got back, we ate dinner at the restaurant and watched some TV with the few people that were there. Next, I went inside and spent entirely too much time on the computer, but at least it was spent skyping with Nicole. We played addicting games like name the US states, European countries, sports logos, etc. She probably should not have showed me that website though because now I have another way to waste time.
I went to bed and watched a movie after finally getting off of the computer.
9/3/11
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!!!!
Saturday was a great day because it was my mom's birthday. I woke up and got ready for my games and Tiin picked me up at 8:30. We headed to the field and set everything up with the team. The first game was close the whole time and it even went to an extra inning. We ended up winning though so that was great! That win put the Devils in 3rd rank for the playoffs. The second game was close until the last inning, but then they got a few hits and we made a few errors and then we were not able to come back during our last at bats. It was alright though because we got the win that we needed to get. Playoffs start next weekend!
After the games, Tiin brought me back to the farm. I showered, got ready, visited with people at the restaurant, and then ate. Tiin, Daniela, and Roman were taking me to a bar that night, but they did not tell me where. It was a surprise. They gave me a few hints, but I did not put them together. We ended up at the Pirates bar that I had seen while driving home from Tessin with Nadja and Andi! I was really excited. The four of us hung out there for a few hours and talked and I had a really good night.
Saturday was a great day because it was my mom's birthday. I woke up and got ready for my games and Tiin picked me up at 8:30. We headed to the field and set everything up with the team. The first game was close the whole time and it even went to an extra inning. We ended up winning though so that was great! That win put the Devils in 3rd rank for the playoffs. The second game was close until the last inning, but then they got a few hits and we made a few errors and then we were not able to come back during our last at bats. It was alright though because we got the win that we needed to get. Playoffs start next weekend!
After the games, Tiin brought me back to the farm. I showered, got ready, visited with people at the restaurant, and then ate. Tiin, Daniela, and Roman were taking me to a bar that night, but they did not tell me where. It was a surprise. They gave me a few hints, but I did not put them together. We ended up at the Pirates bar that I had seen while driving home from Tessin with Nadja and Andi! I was really excited. The four of us hung out there for a few hours and talked and I had a really good night.
Friday, September 2, 2011
9/2/11
Friday morning I woke up, went outside to crush Red Bull cans, and then showered. After lunch, I was able to help Cony clean and vacuum the house.
I applied for a few jobs after this and was able to skype with Nicole. Around five I went outside and helped in the restaurant for a few hours. I came back inside and had dinner afterwards and then applied for another job. Cross your fingers for me!
Then it was time for me to head to bed. I watched Inception and went to sleep.
I applied for a few jobs after this and was able to skype with Nicole. Around five I went outside and helped in the restaurant for a few hours. I came back inside and had dinner afterwards and then applied for another job. Cross your fingers for me!
Then it was time for me to head to bed. I watched Inception and went to sleep.
9/1/11
Thursday morning I slept in, woke up, took a shower, and headed downstairs for lunch. After lunch, I was able to catch up on my blogs and edit my pictures from the past week. It took entirely too long.
By the time I finished with everything, it was time for pitching practice. Tiin picked me up and we met Jrene and Chanti at the field. After about fifteen minutes, Claudia showed up for hitting practice. We each took turns pitching to Tiin while Claudia bunted off of us and then all four of us were able to hit front toss off of Tiin.
After practice, Tiin brought me home and I had pizza in the living room with Roman. I went to bed early and watched a movie until going to sleep.
By the time I finished with everything, it was time for pitching practice. Tiin picked me up and we met Jrene and Chanti at the field. After about fifteen minutes, Claudia showed up for hitting practice. We each took turns pitching to Tiin while Claudia bunted off of us and then all four of us were able to hit front toss off of Tiin.
After practice, Tiin brought me home and I had pizza in the living room with Roman. I went to bed early and watched a movie until going to sleep.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
8/31/11
On Wednesday, Roman and I woke up, got ready, and checked out of our room. We left our luggage in the closet that the hotel provides and went out into the city.
After some breakfast, we headed to Madame Tussauds where I was able to get a picture with Johnny Depp's wax Captain Jack Sparrow. I still hope I get a picture with the real thing one day though. There were lots of celebrities on display in the museum, from historical figures, to musicians, to actors. I wondered what it would feel like to know that you had wax replicas of yourself, probably surreal. The tour took over an hour and when we were finished we headed to the Amsterdam Dungeon.
Roman and I waited in line for about ten minutes and then we able to go inside and wait for our tour to begin. We were in a group of about 25 people and there were actors that took us through the different rooms of the building and gave little performances explaining historic occurrences such as the Spanish Inquisition and torture methods and the plague. There was also a mirror maze, which was the scariest part to me because I started getting a little claustrophobic toward the end of it haha, and a ride at the end. The Dungeon made a few of the girls that were on the tour with us scream every five minutes or so, but I am used to haunted houses because of growing up near Cedar Point and just had fun with the whole thing.
When we were finished with that, we headed back to the hotel to grab our luggage and head for the airport. We took the train from the central station to the airport and got to our gate in more than enough time. Our flight back was short and sweet like the way there and we got back to Zurich around seven.
On our drive back to the farm, we stopped at the store to buy dinner and then stopped by Uschi's house to drop something off and chat for a few minutes. I showed her the pictures we took and then we headed out. When we got back to the house, Roman made us fajitas because we were starving. They were so good!
I was able to skype with my dad, Eric, and even Uncle Jack for a little while after that and then I headed to bed.
After some breakfast, we headed to Madame Tussauds where I was able to get a picture with Johnny Depp's wax Captain Jack Sparrow. I still hope I get a picture with the real thing one day though. There were lots of celebrities on display in the museum, from historical figures, to musicians, to actors. I wondered what it would feel like to know that you had wax replicas of yourself, probably surreal. The tour took over an hour and when we were finished we headed to the Amsterdam Dungeon.
Roman and I waited in line for about ten minutes and then we able to go inside and wait for our tour to begin. We were in a group of about 25 people and there were actors that took us through the different rooms of the building and gave little performances explaining historic occurrences such as the Spanish Inquisition and torture methods and the plague. There was also a mirror maze, which was the scariest part to me because I started getting a little claustrophobic toward the end of it haha, and a ride at the end. The Dungeon made a few of the girls that were on the tour with us scream every five minutes or so, but I am used to haunted houses because of growing up near Cedar Point and just had fun with the whole thing.
When we were finished with that, we headed back to the hotel to grab our luggage and head for the airport. We took the train from the central station to the airport and got to our gate in more than enough time. Our flight back was short and sweet like the way there and we got back to Zurich around seven.
On our drive back to the farm, we stopped at the store to buy dinner and then stopped by Uschi's house to drop something off and chat for a few minutes. I showed her the pictures we took and then we headed out. When we got back to the house, Roman made us fajitas because we were starving. They were so good!
I was able to skype with my dad, Eric, and even Uncle Jack for a little while after that and then I headed to bed.
8/30/11
Tuesday morning meant that I did not have to wake up at the crack of dawn, which I was very grateful for. After sleeping in a little, Roman and I headed out to catch one of the canal cruises. We chose the museum cruise because that allowed us to get on and off the boat at any or all of the four stops.
We bought our tickets and went to wait for our tour in a little cafe on the dock. After watching some javelin throwing and a few races on TV, it was time for our canal cruise. I appreciated that everything that was explained on the tour was done so in four or five different languages, the important one for me being English and for Roman being German. Everything is better when you can appreciate the significance of it. We were able to see a few different routes of the many canals in the city and our first stop was at the Anne Frank house. We saw the outside, but the line was really long so we decided to tour the area instead before hopping on the next boat.
Roman and I boarded the next boat about an hour later and were taken to the third stop of the tour. We got off and headed toward the Van Gogh Museum. Inside, we were able to see some of his early sketches, paintings by other artists that inspired him, and works toward the end of his life. It was really neat and I enjoyed it.
After Van Gogh, we headed to the Heineken Brewery. There is a self-guided tour through the factory so everyone can go at their own pace. We were able to get some history on how Heineken started, see what goes into the beer, the machines that make it, virtually go through the factory as if we were the beer, which was funny, and got two beers each at the end. It was a cool tour and by the time it was over we were hungry.
The two of us headed to the Hard Rock Cafe next. I got ribs and Roman got a burger. Our food was delicious and we were definitely full afterwards. The boat tour was no longer running by that time, but we knew it would not be and did not mind at all. We walked back to our hotel and were able to see how pretty the city is at night. The canals definitely add to the essence of everything.
We got back to the hotel, watched some TV, and went to sleep. It was a good day!
We bought our tickets and went to wait for our tour in a little cafe on the dock. After watching some javelin throwing and a few races on TV, it was time for our canal cruise. I appreciated that everything that was explained on the tour was done so in four or five different languages, the important one for me being English and for Roman being German. Everything is better when you can appreciate the significance of it. We were able to see a few different routes of the many canals in the city and our first stop was at the Anne Frank house. We saw the outside, but the line was really long so we decided to tour the area instead before hopping on the next boat.
Roman and I boarded the next boat about an hour later and were taken to the third stop of the tour. We got off and headed toward the Van Gogh Museum. Inside, we were able to see some of his early sketches, paintings by other artists that inspired him, and works toward the end of his life. It was really neat and I enjoyed it.
After Van Gogh, we headed to the Heineken Brewery. There is a self-guided tour through the factory so everyone can go at their own pace. We were able to get some history on how Heineken started, see what goes into the beer, the machines that make it, virtually go through the factory as if we were the beer, which was funny, and got two beers each at the end. It was a cool tour and by the time it was over we were hungry.
The two of us headed to the Hard Rock Cafe next. I got ribs and Roman got a burger. Our food was delicious and we were definitely full afterwards. The boat tour was no longer running by that time, but we knew it would not be and did not mind at all. We walked back to our hotel and were able to see how pretty the city is at night. The canals definitely add to the essence of everything.
We got back to the hotel, watched some TV, and went to sleep. It was a good day!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
8/29/11
Monday morning I woke up bright and early, however, I was supposed to be up an hour earlier than when I woke up. Roman and I had both set our alarms for the wrong times and luckily his was not as off as mine so when he woke me we still had plenty of time to get to the airport.
We did not even speed on the way there, had no problems going through security, and were at our gate ten minutes before boarding. Luckily it worked out well. We landed in Amsterdam around 8:30am and after some curly fries and a drink we hopped on the train to the central station. There we got off and headed to our hotel to see what time check-in was. We still had over three hours by the time we got there, so we left our luggage in the closet and started walking around the city. We got our bearings, headed into some of the shops along the streets, and then went to a sports bar to have a drink. We were able to watch some of a soccer game, even though neither of us knew who was playing, relax, and then headed back to the hotel just in time for check-in.
After getting our room key, we brought our bags upstairs and turned on the TV. Almost everything was in English and I was so happy! Roman was excited because he could tell how happy I was to be able to understand everything, but I was excited because he could understand a good amount of it as well. He paid attention to which shows had the most clearly speaking actors in them, in case he wants to buy the DVDs to practice his English when I go back to America. I fell asleep, but after a nap we both felt better anyway.
When we woke up, we were both hungry so we headed out again. We found a little place that had the feel of the old west to it and stopped there. After our stomachs were full, we went walking again and ran into a juggling unicycle performer. We watched him for awhile and then went to another little bar. I liked the music that the bartender played and was very comfortable inside because she seemed to really enjoy her job.
By the time we were finished there, it was time for bed. We headed back to our hotel and I had to force myself to turn off the TV so that I could get some sleep.
We did not even speed on the way there, had no problems going through security, and were at our gate ten minutes before boarding. Luckily it worked out well. We landed in Amsterdam around 8:30am and after some curly fries and a drink we hopped on the train to the central station. There we got off and headed to our hotel to see what time check-in was. We still had over three hours by the time we got there, so we left our luggage in the closet and started walking around the city. We got our bearings, headed into some of the shops along the streets, and then went to a sports bar to have a drink. We were able to watch some of a soccer game, even though neither of us knew who was playing, relax, and then headed back to the hotel just in time for check-in.
After getting our room key, we brought our bags upstairs and turned on the TV. Almost everything was in English and I was so happy! Roman was excited because he could tell how happy I was to be able to understand everything, but I was excited because he could understand a good amount of it as well. He paid attention to which shows had the most clearly speaking actors in them, in case he wants to buy the DVDs to practice his English when I go back to America. I fell asleep, but after a nap we both felt better anyway.
When we woke up, we were both hungry so we headed out again. We found a little place that had the feel of the old west to it and stopped there. After our stomachs were full, we went walking again and ran into a juggling unicycle performer. We watched him for awhile and then went to another little bar. I liked the music that the bartender played and was very comfortable inside because she seemed to really enjoy her job.
By the time we were finished there, it was time for bed. We headed back to our hotel and I had to force myself to turn off the TV so that I could get some sleep.
8/28/11
On Sunday morning, T and I woke up, hours after Roman, ate breakfast, and then I showered. After that, we watched some TV and then headed out. We dropped T off by the train station for her practice, even though it may have been just as fast for her to walk because she lives so close, said bye, and headed back to Switzerland.
The drive was about three hours and it was a beautiful day so we did not mind. On the way, we drove through Austria, probably a similar route to the one the train takes because it also goes through Austria, for only twelve minutes though haha Now I can say that I have been in Austria too.
When we got back to Wil, Roman and I rented Inception from the movie store and then bought kebobs, a wrap with meat and vegetables inside. After we were finished eating, we headed back to the farm. We sat at the restaurant with the family for awhile, while I practiced my German by texting with Uschi, one of Roman's good friends. Then we headed inside to pack for Amsterdam and get to sleep.
The drive was about three hours and it was a beautiful day so we did not mind. On the way, we drove through Austria, probably a similar route to the one the train takes because it also goes through Austria, for only twelve minutes though haha Now I can say that I have been in Austria too.
When we got back to Wil, Roman and I rented Inception from the movie store and then bought kebobs, a wrap with meat and vegetables inside. After we were finished eating, we headed back to the farm. We sat at the restaurant with the family for awhile, while I practiced my German by texting with Uschi, one of Roman's good friends. Then we headed inside to pack for Amsterdam and get to sleep.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
8/27/11
On Saturday morning, T and I woke up in order to say goodbye to Mascha and Franky because they were leaving for vacation for two weeks in Cyprus. We had breakfast and then Roman arrived. He missed meeting them by about ten minutes...shoot!
After T and I were ready for the day, the three of us left to meet her parents for sightseeing. We met them two stops over and then the five of us headed to Olympia Park. On the way there, we stopped inside BMW World and looked at all the cars and motorcycles. T's mom really wanted a few of them and we got a picture of her in one to prove how great she would look driving it. When we were finished in there, we headed back outside and to the hill that overlooks the whole of the park. It was the site for the 1972 Summer Olympics and T told us that they did not expect the structure to hold for so long, but it is still there today. It was really pretty and would have been an awesome place to watch the events almost forty years ago.
After T and I were ready for the day, the three of us left to meet her parents for sightseeing. We met them two stops over and then the five of us headed to Olympia Park. On the way there, we stopped inside BMW World and looked at all the cars and motorcycles. T's mom really wanted a few of them and we got a picture of her in one to prove how great she would look driving it. When we were finished in there, we headed back outside and to the hill that overlooks the whole of the park. It was the site for the 1972 Summer Olympics and T told us that they did not expect the structure to hold for so long, but it is still there today. It was really pretty and would have been an awesome place to watch the events almost forty years ago.
T then guided us to Hofbräuhaus for lunch. We ordered a liter beer, which was really heavy, and some delicious food. After all of us had our fill, including dessert, we then split up. T's parents went back to their hotel and T, Roman, and I headed to Schloss Nymphenburg, a castle that I had already seen from her pictures, but wanted to see in person. The weather earlier in the day was overcast, but by the time we got to the castle, it was gorgeous out. It was very pretty landscape and we walked the grounds for a while.
Around 8pm, the three of us headed back to Mascha and Franky's. Roman was tired and fell asleep pretty fast, but T and I had time to finish the pizza dip before heading to bed. It was a great day :-)
8/26/11
Happy Birthday Tbird!!!!
Friday was T's birthday. We woke up and had breakfast and then got ready to go to the store with Mascha to get stuff for the party later that night. We went to four different stores and by the afternoon we had everything we needed.
T was waiting for a call from her parents to let her know that they landed safely and made it to their hotel. Franky, Mascha, Anton, T, and I ate some lunch around two. Franky taught me a joke in German that he said I needed to tell to his friend at the party that evening. After thing were prepared for T's birthday, she and I went downstairs to her room and I fell asleep for about an hour and a half.
When I woke up, I made pizza dip. T went to the train station to pick up her parents around 6:15 and the festivities got underway. Not only did they bring her presents, but they brought presents for Franky and Mascha as well. A bill's Tshirt and American National Parks book were included for Franky and cookbooks for Mascha. I thought that the gifts were very nice.
People started arriving shortly after that and the pizza dip was the first thing served, after the drinks of course. I have noticed that people are usually skeptical of trying it when they first see it, but after they taste it, I have not encountered a person who did not like it. The list of countries that I have served it in now includes the US, Switzerland, Greece, and Germany, so I think it is a hit.
The food was delicious that night and it was really nice getting to know everyone a little better and catching up with T's parents. Everyone seemed to have a lot of fun, and then it was time for bed.
Friday was T's birthday. We woke up and had breakfast and then got ready to go to the store with Mascha to get stuff for the party later that night. We went to four different stores and by the afternoon we had everything we needed.
T was waiting for a call from her parents to let her know that they landed safely and made it to their hotel. Franky, Mascha, Anton, T, and I ate some lunch around two. Franky taught me a joke in German that he said I needed to tell to his friend at the party that evening. After thing were prepared for T's birthday, she and I went downstairs to her room and I fell asleep for about an hour and a half.
When I woke up, I made pizza dip. T went to the train station to pick up her parents around 6:15 and the festivities got underway. Not only did they bring her presents, but they brought presents for Franky and Mascha as well. A bill's Tshirt and American National Parks book were included for Franky and cookbooks for Mascha. I thought that the gifts were very nice.
People started arriving shortly after that and the pizza dip was the first thing served, after the drinks of course. I have noticed that people are usually skeptical of trying it when they first see it, but after they taste it, I have not encountered a person who did not like it. The list of countries that I have served it in now includes the US, Switzerland, Greece, and Germany, so I think it is a hit.
The food was delicious that night and it was really nice getting to know everyone a little better and catching up with T's parents. Everyone seemed to have a lot of fun, and then it was time for bed.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
8/25/11
On Thursday morning, I woke up early in order to catch the train to Munich to visit T for her birthday on Friday. Roman dropped me off at the train station in Wil and I got on the 7:40 train to St. Gallen and from there, at 8:11, I changed trains to head to Munich. I arrived in Munich at 11:28 and T was waiting for me. We headed back to her house where I met Anton, her host brother, and got a tour of the house. We ate lunch and then headed to downtown Munich to see the sights.
We walked through the city a little bit and then headed to the English Gardens. It is very beautiful there, but it was funny because I felt like I had already been there. T has described her home, Munich, and the Gardens to me so many times that apparently she did a very good job because I have not seen that many pictures of it, but still felt like everything was familiar.
We headed back to her house again and I was able to meet her host parents, Mascha and Franky. They are so nice and I am happy that she is with such a good family. The four of us headed to the lake around the corner from their house and we went swimming for about twenty minutes. The water was lovely and the lake was beautiful. Her host parents are really funny too!
After the lake, T and I ate some of Mascha's delicious food and headed to practice. It was nice to meet her team and see how they do things. I hit with them and did some infield. We were given a ride home by a girl on her team named Terry.
We got back to her house, showered, and watched TV until heading to bed. It was a good day!
We walked through the city a little bit and then headed to the English Gardens. It is very beautiful there, but it was funny because I felt like I had already been there. T has described her home, Munich, and the Gardens to me so many times that apparently she did a very good job because I have not seen that many pictures of it, but still felt like everything was familiar.
We headed back to her house again and I was able to meet her host parents, Mascha and Franky. They are so nice and I am happy that she is with such a good family. The four of us headed to the lake around the corner from their house and we went swimming for about twenty minutes. The water was lovely and the lake was beautiful. Her host parents are really funny too!
After the lake, T and I ate some of Mascha's delicious food and headed to practice. It was nice to meet her team and see how they do things. I hit with them and did some infield. We were given a ride home by a girl on her team named Terry.
We got back to her house, showered, and watched TV until heading to bed. It was a good day!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
8/24/11
Wednesday I slept in and then got up, cleaned my room, and vacuumed. Then it was time for lunch. After lunch, I went with Nadja to run some errands. I helped her get some things ready at her apartment because it is Andi's birthday and he was planning on having some friends over.
I still had to buy my train ticket for Germany to go see T tomorrow, so around 5pm I drove Roman's car from Nadja's back to the farm. Leaving her house, there was a good amount of traffic and several hills that I had to stop on. Good news is, that I did not stall! Yes! haha
Once getting back to the farm, I went with Roman to buy my train ticket, take back two of the tall tables that we borrowed for the American party, and stop at the grocery store. Then he dropped me off at practice. We did live hitting and everyone got six at bats each, which was good, and then some outfield. Tiin, the girls, and I went for a drink after practice.
Tiin brought me back to the farm and I had some dinner. Now I need to pack, so goodnight!
I still had to buy my train ticket for Germany to go see T tomorrow, so around 5pm I drove Roman's car from Nadja's back to the farm. Leaving her house, there was a good amount of traffic and several hills that I had to stop on. Good news is, that I did not stall! Yes! haha
Once getting back to the farm, I went with Roman to buy my train ticket, take back two of the tall tables that we borrowed for the American party, and stop at the grocery store. Then he dropped me off at practice. We did live hitting and everyone got six at bats each, which was good, and then some outfield. Tiin, the girls, and I went for a drink after practice.
Tiin brought me back to the farm and I had some dinner. Now I need to pack, so goodnight!
8/23/11
Tuesday morning I woke up and went outside to pick apples with Nadja, Cony, Roman, and Peter. We were out there for a few hours and Nadja, Roman, and I had an apple throwing contest. Roman won the first time and then he and I tied the second time. After this, we all had lunch.
Nadja, Roman, and I went back out to work for another hour and while we were picking apples I saw one on a twig that was stuck in the fence that kept the sheep in. I went to grab the twig and finally figured out which fence on the farm is the electric fence. I got shocked and it took me a few seconds to realize what happened because I was not expecting it. Roman immediately started apologizing for forgetting to tell me to watch out for the fence, but I just started laughing. I thought it was hilarious. So then, he told me to take his hand and he grabbed the fence with his other hand. He thought that maybe he would not get shocked, but he did, so then I laughed some more.
After apple picking, the three of us headed over to their aunt's house again. It has been really hot for the past few days and her pool is perfect for this kind of weather. John and Ryan showed up a little while after we got there and then Andi shortly after them. We all swam, played ping pong, and had a good time. Then, it was time for dinner. Everything was delicious and the outdoor patio where we ate was gorgeous, along with the entire house. We all talked about how we ate way too much, but then we did push-ups and played more ping pong. That made it a little better, until dessert, which was a light crust pie with whipped cream and all kinds of berries on top. I had way too much of everything, but it was hard to help it with everything being so delicious.
Once dessert was finished, we all helped clean everything up and then headed back home. We were not back for very long before it started hailing. It was crazy weather, so I showered and went to sleep. Very good day!
Nadja, Roman, and I went back out to work for another hour and while we were picking apples I saw one on a twig that was stuck in the fence that kept the sheep in. I went to grab the twig and finally figured out which fence on the farm is the electric fence. I got shocked and it took me a few seconds to realize what happened because I was not expecting it. Roman immediately started apologizing for forgetting to tell me to watch out for the fence, but I just started laughing. I thought it was hilarious. So then, he told me to take his hand and he grabbed the fence with his other hand. He thought that maybe he would not get shocked, but he did, so then I laughed some more.
After apple picking, the three of us headed over to their aunt's house again. It has been really hot for the past few days and her pool is perfect for this kind of weather. John and Ryan showed up a little while after we got there and then Andi shortly after them. We all swam, played ping pong, and had a good time. Then, it was time for dinner. Everything was delicious and the outdoor patio where we ate was gorgeous, along with the entire house. We all talked about how we ate way too much, but then we did push-ups and played more ping pong. That made it a little better, until dessert, which was a light crust pie with whipped cream and all kinds of berries on top. I had way too much of everything, but it was hard to help it with everything being so delicious.
Once dessert was finished, we all helped clean everything up and then headed back home. We were not back for very long before it started hailing. It was crazy weather, so I showered and went to sleep. Very good day!
Monday, August 22, 2011
8/22/11
Monday morning I got ready and then rode the motorized bike to Tiin's parents' house for lunch. Tiin and John were also there, along with two little boys that his parents watch who were adorable and reminded me of Eric when he was younger. The food was amazing as usual and Roman stopped by with his rollerblades and we headed back to the farm.
When we got back, Nadja was waiting for us because we were heading over to their aunt's house to swim. I was able to get a tour of the house and it was absolutely gorgeous! Their aunt is so nice too and great at entertaining. John met the three of us at her house and after a little swimming, the four of us played ping pong, but with different rules. After you hit the ball you have to run around to the other side of the table, so everyone runs in a circle the whole time and the one who messes up is out. When it is down to only one person on each side they play until one of them reaches three points and that person is the winner. It was a lot of fun.
We had sandwiches and stayed for a few hours and then headed back. Tiin picked me up for practice and I finally gave the shirts, shorts, and socks that my dad sent a long time ago to the girls. I kept forgetting to bring the package to practice! We did a lot of defense and when I got home I was able to skype with T. Now I am heading to bed. Goodnight!
When we got back, Nadja was waiting for us because we were heading over to their aunt's house to swim. I was able to get a tour of the house and it was absolutely gorgeous! Their aunt is so nice too and great at entertaining. John met the three of us at her house and after a little swimming, the four of us played ping pong, but with different rules. After you hit the ball you have to run around to the other side of the table, so everyone runs in a circle the whole time and the one who messes up is out. When it is down to only one person on each side they play until one of them reaches three points and that person is the winner. It was a lot of fun.
We had sandwiches and stayed for a few hours and then headed back. Tiin picked me up for practice and I finally gave the shirts, shorts, and socks that my dad sent a long time ago to the girls. I kept forgetting to bring the package to practice! We did a lot of defense and when I got home I was able to skype with T. Now I am heading to bed. Goodnight!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
8/21/11
Sunday morning I woke up and headed with Nadja and Roman to brunch in Romanshorn. We met Cony, Andreas, and Andi there because they left about an hour before us by bike. The six of us waited for their cousins to arrive and once the two of them, Manuela and Federica, we all had a magnificent brunch.
Once we were all full, we headed to the beach. It was a beautiful day, but the water was quite refreshing because it was so hot, and then I took a nap. We relaxed for the whole afternoon, and then Andi, Nadja, Roman, and I headed back to the farm. Cony, Andreas, and Debbie, who had met us there, left before us and made it back fast because they just put the bikes in the big van that Debbie drove to the beach.
John was at the restaurant, so we all sat down and talked with him. After Nadja and Andi left, Roman and I made the three of us dinner and John loved it, which was great because he enjoyed the Lehmann's restaurant and food so much.
I showered afterwards and Roman drove John back to Jose's house. After Roman showered, John called us and we went over and had some dessert and watched Happy Gilmore. It was a good day and now I am going to sleep. Goodnight!
Once we were all full, we headed to the beach. It was a beautiful day, but the water was quite refreshing because it was so hot, and then I took a nap. We relaxed for the whole afternoon, and then Andi, Nadja, Roman, and I headed back to the farm. Cony, Andreas, and Debbie, who had met us there, left before us and made it back fast because they just put the bikes in the big van that Debbie drove to the beach.
John was at the restaurant, so we all sat down and talked with him. After Nadja and Andi left, Roman and I made the three of us dinner and John loved it, which was great because he enjoyed the Lehmann's restaurant and food so much.
I showered afterwards and Roman drove John back to Jose's house. After Roman showered, John called us and we went over and had some dessert and watched Happy Gilmore. It was a good day and now I am going to sleep. Goodnight!
8/20/11
Saturday morning I slept until lunch. After lunch, Roman had to go to his company to fix something so I went with him. We were there for about half an hour and then went to Wil to look for flip flops.
We did not find any that I liked, but when we were done we stopped for a drink. I have drive past the bar we went to many times and it was nice to finally see what it was like from the patio instead of just looking at it. It was nice and cozy and then we headed home.
I had dinner and after the restaurant closed, Andi, Nadja, and I met the Devils baseball and softball teams at St. Gallen Fest. There were just as many people as the night before.
Not everybody from our teams were there, but it was still a really fun time with those of us who made it out. Andi, Nadja, and I left around 2am and I was absolutely exhausted. I fell asleep as soon as I was in my bed, which never happens.
We did not find any that I liked, but when we were done we stopped for a drink. I have drive past the bar we went to many times and it was nice to finally see what it was like from the patio instead of just looking at it. It was nice and cozy and then we headed home.
I had dinner and after the restaurant closed, Andi, Nadja, and I met the Devils baseball and softball teams at St. Gallen Fest. There were just as many people as the night before.
Not everybody from our teams were there, but it was still a really fun time with those of us who made it out. Andi, Nadja, and I left around 2am and I was absolutely exhausted. I fell asleep as soon as I was in my bed, which never happens.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
8/19/11
On Friday, I woke up, got ready, and went to lunch with John. After lunch, we went back to Jose's house, where he is staying, and watched football, sat on the back patio and looked at the great view of the Lehmann's farm, and played some more pool.
We hung out for a few hours and then Jose came home. Roman came over after work and shortly after him, Jose's wife showed up as well. The five of us talked for awhile and then Roman, John, and I headed out for a drink. At the little restaurant we went to, two men were playing their alpenhorns.
After a drink, the three of us went back and changed and then headed to St. Gallen for the festival taking place this weekend. There was great food, dessert, music, and even some Indian music with dancers. We were there talking and singing for hours. Eventually we made it back home, but that was around 4:30am. Good day!
We hung out for a few hours and then Jose came home. Roman came over after work and shortly after him, Jose's wife showed up as well. The five of us talked for awhile and then Roman, John, and I headed out for a drink. At the little restaurant we went to, two men were playing their alpenhorns.
After a drink, the three of us went back and changed and then headed to St. Gallen for the festival taking place this weekend. There was great food, dessert, music, and even some Indian music with dancers. We were there talking and singing for hours. Eventually we made it back home, but that was around 4:30am. Good day!
Friday, August 19, 2011
8/18/11
Thursday I woke up early to go and watch how cheese is made. I was pretty excited about this. I went with John, who is a friend of Tiin and Daniela's from the US, and one of his baseball players Ryan, who is visiting for two weeks. It was about a twenty minute drive and we arrived at the house before 8am. It was Jose's parents' house and Jose is affiliated with the Wil Devils.
There is a whole process involved with cheese-making, as you can imagine, and we were able to watch pretty much the whole thing. After showing the three of us around, we ate breakfast with Franz and Veronika, Jose's parents. It was very good and then it was time for more work.
Franz had a big vat that stirred liquid, that would soon become cheese, for over and hour. Then, he transported it through hoses into another machine where the water was sucked out and then it started taking shape. We helped cut the big solid into squares and put them into cylinders. It is very hard to explain, probably because I did not understand the entirety of what was happening, but I took pictures of course.
After we watched all of that, Veronika took us to the school that Jose went to when he was younger and John, Ryan, and I played a game with the kids in the classroom for a few minutes. When we walked back to the house, Franz and Veronika took us into the cellar and showed us where the cheese is stored after it is the proper shape and size. Everything was really cool.
Around 11am, we arrived back at Jose's house and John and I played pool until lunch was ready. It was ostrich, lamb, chicken, cervelas, potatoes, and salad. Then the four of us headed to the school that Jose teaches at and played baseball with his PE class. On the way there, I rode with Jose on his motorcycle. It was a beautiful day and a lot of fun playing outside.
Everything is so simple and beautiful here. I absolutely love it. The people know what is truly important. For instance, after the baseball class, Jose watered down a patch of grass until it was soaking wet and had sliding practice for the boys. John, Ryan, and I just sat there and laughed because there were so many "safety hazards" that could be found in this activity, but the kids were just having fun! We talked about how that is the kind of stuff that you remember doing when you were younger once you grow up and how important it is that a person has those memories. I told Jose that he would have been my favorite PE teacher, other than my Aunt Janet of course :-)
After that, John and Ryan brought me back to the farm and I got ready for pitching practice. Roman took me and Chanti, Jrene, and I threw for about an hour. I got back home and showered and then John, Roman, Ryan, Charlie from the baseball team, and I went out for a drink. I had a wonderful day and night and then headed to bed.
There is a whole process involved with cheese-making, as you can imagine, and we were able to watch pretty much the whole thing. After showing the three of us around, we ate breakfast with Franz and Veronika, Jose's parents. It was very good and then it was time for more work.
Franz had a big vat that stirred liquid, that would soon become cheese, for over and hour. Then, he transported it through hoses into another machine where the water was sucked out and then it started taking shape. We helped cut the big solid into squares and put them into cylinders. It is very hard to explain, probably because I did not understand the entirety of what was happening, but I took pictures of course.
After we watched all of that, Veronika took us to the school that Jose went to when he was younger and John, Ryan, and I played a game with the kids in the classroom for a few minutes. When we walked back to the house, Franz and Veronika took us into the cellar and showed us where the cheese is stored after it is the proper shape and size. Everything was really cool.
Around 11am, we arrived back at Jose's house and John and I played pool until lunch was ready. It was ostrich, lamb, chicken, cervelas, potatoes, and salad. Then the four of us headed to the school that Jose teaches at and played baseball with his PE class. On the way there, I rode with Jose on his motorcycle. It was a beautiful day and a lot of fun playing outside.
Everything is so simple and beautiful here. I absolutely love it. The people know what is truly important. For instance, after the baseball class, Jose watered down a patch of grass until it was soaking wet and had sliding practice for the boys. John, Ryan, and I just sat there and laughed because there were so many "safety hazards" that could be found in this activity, but the kids were just having fun! We talked about how that is the kind of stuff that you remember doing when you were younger once you grow up and how important it is that a person has those memories. I told Jose that he would have been my favorite PE teacher, other than my Aunt Janet of course :-)
After that, John and Ryan brought me back to the farm and I got ready for pitching practice. Roman took me and Chanti, Jrene, and I threw for about an hour. I got back home and showered and then John, Roman, Ryan, Charlie from the baseball team, and I went out for a drink. I had a wonderful day and night and then headed to bed.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
8/17/11
Wednesday I woke up and vacuumed upstairs. After lunch, I vacuumed the rest of the house and then went rollerblading for the first time since I was about twelve years old. I only skated back and forth down the street a few times because everywhere else has huge hills and I was a little nervous to try that just yet.
Mikey, my dad, Patti, Eric, and I skyped for awhile following that and then it was time for practice. We did a lot of fielding and then a minor scrimmage at the end. It was Anka's last practice and so we all had a drink afterwards.
Tiin brought me back to the farm and I had dinner and then skyped with my mom. Then it was time for bed.
Mikey, my dad, Patti, Eric, and I skyped for awhile following that and then it was time for practice. We did a lot of fielding and then a minor scrimmage at the end. It was Anka's last practice and so we all had a drink afterwards.
Tiin brought me back to the farm and I had dinner and then skyped with my mom. Then it was time for bed.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
8/16/11
Tuesday I woke up, got ready, and ate lunch. After lunch, I helped with apple picking, read more of The Lord of the Rings, and then learned some German with Rosetta Stone.
I did some more things for the job search, and then Roman got home from work and we headed to the hospital to visit Nadja. She wanted a McFlurry, so we stopped at McDonald's. That was a bad idea though because then the two of us were hungry and each got a meal, oh well. We bought her McFlurry on the way out and she seemed pretty excited about it when we got there. Rolf had been there for a little while when we arrived and then Cony showed up after he left. Nadja, Cony, Roman, and I went down to the cafeteria because Nadja was hungry and then Christof and two more friends showed up. I thought it was nice that she had so many people to visit her.
It was a gorgeous day and once we left the hospital, the evening was even prettier. I had to take pictures of the sunset because there were so many colors and I just kept staring out the window of the car. It was a beautiful night and then it was time for bed.
I did some more things for the job search, and then Roman got home from work and we headed to the hospital to visit Nadja. She wanted a McFlurry, so we stopped at McDonald's. That was a bad idea though because then the two of us were hungry and each got a meal, oh well. We bought her McFlurry on the way out and she seemed pretty excited about it when we got there. Rolf had been there for a little while when we arrived and then Cony showed up after he left. Nadja, Cony, Roman, and I went down to the cafeteria because Nadja was hungry and then Christof and two more friends showed up. I thought it was nice that she had so many people to visit her.
It was a gorgeous day and once we left the hospital, the evening was even prettier. I had to take pictures of the sunset because there were so many colors and I just kept staring out the window of the car. It was a beautiful night and then it was time for bed.
Monday, August 15, 2011
8/15/11
I was apparently exhausted from the day before, because I did not wake up until Roman knocked on my door to tell me that lunch was ready at noon. Talk about lazy haha
After lunch, I skyped with T and then my dad. I was not as big of a fan of technology until I went halfway across the world and it enabled me to still talk to the people I love.
I edited some pictures, updated my linkedin profile, and did some laundry before Roman got home and we went to the hospital to visit Nadja. She is having surgery tomorrow and I drove her car back to her apartment for her after our visit.
Tiin picked me up for practice around 6:40 and we did hitting, defense, and a little scrimmage. It rained at the beginning, but stopped quickly so we got everything in.
After practice, I ate and then headed to bed. Gute Nacht!
After lunch, I skyped with T and then my dad. I was not as big of a fan of technology until I went halfway across the world and it enabled me to still talk to the people I love.
I edited some pictures, updated my linkedin profile, and did some laundry before Roman got home and we went to the hospital to visit Nadja. She is having surgery tomorrow and I drove her car back to her apartment for her after our visit.
Tiin picked me up for practice around 6:40 and we did hitting, defense, and a little scrimmage. It rained at the beginning, but stopped quickly so we got everything in.
After practice, I ate and then headed to bed. Gute Nacht!
8/14/11
Sunday was a good day for Wil Devils softball. We mercy ruled the team both games of the doubleheader. The first game ended after three innings and the second after six. I finally played a softball game at home! It was a beautiful day and did not rain, even though the forecast earlier in the week said it would. I was happy.
Peter, Cony, Roman, and Therese (Peter's sister) were able to come watch and I was very happy because they had not seen me play yet. It was nice to feel like I had family there :-)
After the games, Roman and I had dinner and watched Flubber haha If it's the right kind of movie, I have learned that I even like it in German. I try to see how much of it I can understand, but sometimes I only understand it because I could read the actor's lips...oops! I think it is getting easier though, so that is good.
We went for a drive afterwards and ended up at a lake about 25 minutes away. It was very pretty and I love the water. It was a very nice evening, but we were tired so we headed back. I fell asleep pretty fast.
Peter, Cony, Roman, and Therese (Peter's sister) were able to come watch and I was very happy because they had not seen me play yet. It was nice to feel like I had family there :-)
After the games, Roman and I had dinner and watched Flubber haha If it's the right kind of movie, I have learned that I even like it in German. I try to see how much of it I can understand, but sometimes I only understand it because I could read the actor's lips...oops! I think it is getting easier though, so that is good.
We went for a drive afterwards and ended up at a lake about 25 minutes away. It was very pretty and I love the water. It was a very nice evening, but we were tired so we headed back. I fell asleep pretty fast.
8/13/11
On Saturday, I showed up at the field in Wil at 9am. I was playing baseball with the guys' team and we set up the backstop and outfield fence and everything. I forgot how long a baseball game takes. It was a doubleheader and I did not leave Wil until around 6:30pm. We won both games so it was a good day, just very long. I was walked five times in ten at bats, and felt like that was more than my entire Niagara season, but probably not.
One of the players on the team brought me home afterwards and Roman and I finished the rest of the pizza dip from the day before. I showered and then we watched some TV, but I fell asleep on the couch so he woke me up and said it was probably time for me to go to bed. I agreed because I was exhausted.
One of the players on the team brought me home afterwards and Roman and I finished the rest of the pizza dip from the day before. I showered and then we watched some TV, but I fell asleep on the couch so he woke me up and said it was probably time for me to go to bed. I agreed because I was exhausted.
8/12/11
Friday, I woke up and looked for jobs. I really hope that I find something for when I get back to the US. I had lunch and then stayed inside and looked for jobs more, updated my resume, and linkedin profile.
I headed to practice with Tiin around 5:45. There were just a few of us there, working on pitching or extra hitting and fielding. It was a good practice and then Tiin pitched some baseballs to me so that I had a little practice before I had to play with the guys on Saturday. Hitting a baseball is different than hitting a softball for sure.
After practice, we came back to the farm. Roman and I went to Uschi's and brought dinner so that she could try pizza dip. We had chicken, potatoes, and pizza dip...I was happy!
After dinner we watched a little TV and then headed back to the farm for bed.
I headed to practice with Tiin around 5:45. There were just a few of us there, working on pitching or extra hitting and fielding. It was a good practice and then Tiin pitched some baseballs to me so that I had a little practice before I had to play with the guys on Saturday. Hitting a baseball is different than hitting a softball for sure.
After practice, we came back to the farm. Roman and I went to Uschi's and brought dinner so that she could try pizza dip. We had chicken, potatoes, and pizza dip...I was happy!
After dinner we watched a little TV and then headed back to the farm for bed.
Friday, August 12, 2011
8/11/11
Thursday I had lunch with the family and then read The Lord of the Rings until about 2pm. Then I went outside to wipe down the tables and chairs and sweep the restaurant floor. I went swimming for about fifteen minutes after that, and the cold water helped my mosquito bites. Cony laughed and asked me if it was cold, which it was, so I said yes, but that it was good.
After a shower and some clean clothes, I went back outside and talked with Peter's sister Therese. The conversation was slow because it was in German, but I understood most of what she was saying and could respond, so I was happy. I helped out in the restaurant because Nadja had to work and then later got a drink with Roman.
It was a nice day.
After a shower and some clean clothes, I went back outside and talked with Peter's sister Therese. The conversation was slow because it was in German, but I understood most of what she was saying and could respond, so I was happy. I helped out in the restaurant because Nadja had to work and then later got a drink with Roman.
It was a nice day.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
8/10/11
I woke up, showered, and had lunch on Wednesday. After that, I decided that it would be a good idea for a run. I think I ran too far for too long though, even with walking intervals in between. Note to self, remember how much you do not enjoy running the next time you get a bright idea to do it for two hours.
After that, I ate dinner and got ready for practice. Nadja and I headed out around ten to seven and we had the most people at practice that we have had in a long time. We got a lot of stuff in and headed home around 9:30.
I showered and then went to a friend's birthday party with Roman. We stayed for an hour or two and then came back to the farm to sleep.
After that, I ate dinner and got ready for practice. Nadja and I headed out around ten to seven and we had the most people at practice that we have had in a long time. We got a lot of stuff in and headed home around 9:30.
I showered and then went to a friend's birthday party with Roman. We stayed for an hour or two and then came back to the farm to sleep.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
8/9/11
Tuesday morning, T and I slept in and then checked the times for the trains. She was able to eat lunch with us and then Roman took us to the train station. I walked back after waiting for the train with her and saying bye and then skyped with my mom.
I helped Peter pick apples shortly after that, and put my hand on a bee, really smart. It was not bad, but my hand did swell a little. A few hours later, we were done and had some coffee and pudding. Then I showered and Roman got home from work. We went to visit Uschi in the hospital because she broke her forearm a few months ago and they needed to fix it again. I feel bad because she has had that cast on for too long in my opinion.
After the hospital, Roman and I went for a drink and then headed home to bed.
I helped Peter pick apples shortly after that, and put my hand on a bee, really smart. It was not bad, but my hand did swell a little. A few hours later, we were done and had some coffee and pudding. Then I showered and Roman got home from work. We went to visit Uschi in the hospital because she broke her forearm a few months ago and they needed to fix it again. I feel bad because she has had that cast on for too long in my opinion.
After the hospital, Roman and I went for a drink and then headed home to bed.
8/8/11
Monday T and I woke up and showered and then it was time for lunch. After we ate, we went for a walk around 1:30. We stopped at a store and bought chocolate and then made a big loop out of Tobel and then back again. We saw a few pretty streams and it was good exercise.
After our walk, we helped take down a tent from the party that was still up and then watched The Hangover until it was time for practice. At 6:45, Tiin picked us up and we headed to the field. It was a good practice and we got a lot of stuff in.
When he dropped us off back at the farm, we watched TV with Roman and then headed to bed.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
8/7/11
On Sunday, Nadja, Roman, T, and I listened to music while we cleaned up everything from the party and put the restaurant back to normal. It took a few hours but was not hard, kind of fun actually because it was a nice day.
Afterwards, T and I had some food and sat in the restaurant and watched soccer. We helped Nadja with some things, played a game of cornhole, and socialized. It was a low-key kind of day and a good rest after the night before.
T, Roman, and I watched Spiderman, in German, that evening. The two of us Americans tried to understand as much of it as we could, and decided it is much easier to follow along with action movies than other genres. I think I will have to watch more of them. Then we headed to bed.
Afterwards, T and I had some food and sat in the restaurant and watched soccer. We helped Nadja with some things, played a game of cornhole, and socialized. It was a low-key kind of day and a good rest after the night before.
T, Roman, and I watched Spiderman, in German, that evening. The two of us Americans tried to understand as much of it as we could, and decided it is much easier to follow along with action movies than other genres. I think I will have to watch more of them. Then we headed to bed.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
8/6/11
Saturday was busy busy! We had to get everything set up that we had been picking up and reserving for the whole week. Roman started making the ribs at ten in the morning, but trust me it was worth it! We set up tables, chairs, the bar, decorations, and then T, Debbie, and I went around town putting up balloons so that people looking for the house could follow them and find their way.
The American Party was scheduled to start at 4pm, the BBQ at 6pm, and Power Hour at 9pm. Power Hour, for those who do not know, is a drinking game where there are sixty songs that play, each for one minute, and every time the song changes, you have to take a drink. Nadja and some of the Devils had played it last year with the American girl that was here before me and they thought it would be a good game for the party because it would sell the drinks and everyone can play.
Once everyone was cleaned up and clad in American T-shirts, that Aunt Patti so nicely brought for us when she visited, we went and waited for people to arrive. Christof and I played a game of cornhole, while T cheered us on from a chair, and he liked the game, which made me happy. At first there were only about five people there and we started getting a little nervous, but then T and I remembered that spare ribs were on the menu and advertised so we figured most people would show up around 6pm, instead of before.
Well, we were right. Around six, everyone started showing up. Roman, T, and I made up the grill team haha We were quite busy from the hours between six and nine, but T and I were really happy about that because we hate just sitting around feeling like we are in the way. We were able to help a lot because there were about sixty people who showed up. The food was so good! Even though we did not really get a chance to sit down and eat everything, we were able to taste it all while making sure it was ready for the customers.
At about 9:15, Nadja had me welcome and thank everyone for coming to "my" party and then explain the rules for Power Hour and tell everyone to get their drinks from the bar and get ready because it would start around 9:30. Some people had to have a little further explanation in German from Tiin or Nadja, but it is really easy and everyone quickly got the point. So many people had a good time and kept thanking us for the fun. I was really happy that it was a success, so much of one that Roman and I, the last ones waiting for everyone to leave, had to let the last three people know that we were locking up and they could stay, but we were going to sleep because it was after 4:30am.
Crazy! but a very good day :-)
The American Party was scheduled to start at 4pm, the BBQ at 6pm, and Power Hour at 9pm. Power Hour, for those who do not know, is a drinking game where there are sixty songs that play, each for one minute, and every time the song changes, you have to take a drink. Nadja and some of the Devils had played it last year with the American girl that was here before me and they thought it would be a good game for the party because it would sell the drinks and everyone can play.
Once everyone was cleaned up and clad in American T-shirts, that Aunt Patti so nicely brought for us when she visited, we went and waited for people to arrive. Christof and I played a game of cornhole, while T cheered us on from a chair, and he liked the game, which made me happy. At first there were only about five people there and we started getting a little nervous, but then T and I remembered that spare ribs were on the menu and advertised so we figured most people would show up around 6pm, instead of before.
Well, we were right. Around six, everyone started showing up. Roman, T, and I made up the grill team haha We were quite busy from the hours between six and nine, but T and I were really happy about that because we hate just sitting around feeling like we are in the way. We were able to help a lot because there were about sixty people who showed up. The food was so good! Even though we did not really get a chance to sit down and eat everything, we were able to taste it all while making sure it was ready for the customers.
At about 9:15, Nadja had me welcome and thank everyone for coming to "my" party and then explain the rules for Power Hour and tell everyone to get their drinks from the bar and get ready because it would start around 9:30. Some people had to have a little further explanation in German from Tiin or Nadja, but it is really easy and everyone quickly got the point. So many people had a good time and kept thanking us for the fun. I was really happy that it was a success, so much of one that Roman and I, the last ones waiting for everyone to leave, had to let the last three people know that we were locking up and they could stay, but we were going to sleep because it was after 4:30am.
Crazy! but a very good day :-)
8/5/11
Happy 88th Birthday Grandma Julia!!!!
On Friday morning, Roman and I went to Wil and bought stuff to make the bags for cornhole. We could not find a fabric store, so we bought red and blue polo shirts haha
On our way back, we stopped at the train station in Tobel and picked T up. She came to help out with the American Party and I was really happy!
The three of us got back and had lunch, and then got to constructing our home-made cornhole bags. Four red, four blue, and the two boards were white, for America. We cut the fabric into little squares and then filled the bags with corn feed from the chickens. It was fun to make, but more fun to play once we finished.
I finished vacuuming after our game and then Roman came inside and asked T and I to go back outside for a surprise. He had brought his go-cart out and the three of us all took turns. I went first, then T went and then Roman asked us both if we thought we had gone fast. We said kind of but we did not want to crash...so then he showed us what fast was. He threw in a 180 degree turn at the end, just to show off a bit more.
Since our work day was finished, we went out for a drink. I taught T why there are always salty foods on the table when people are drinking because she had never thought about it before and it makes people more thirsty. We were all still dirty though, so then we went home and took showers and went back.
We did some good advertising for the American Party, socialized, and had a good time. It was a fun day and I was happy that T was here to experience it too.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
8/4/11
I slept in this morning and after I showered, I helped Peter, Roman, and Debbie lead the cows to a different place to graze. We had lunch after that and then Roman and I went to pick up tables, benches, and the bar for the party. I was happy that I am not a wimp because the bar was heavy. Then we ran some more errands, picking up last minute things from the store.
On our way back, Roman made me drive. When we were almost back at the farm, he made me take the street that is about a 45 degree incline and stop, so that I could practice driving uphill in first gear. I did not do wonderfully, but a lot better than before. I learned a little more too, so hopefully I will do better in the future.
After a short break, and some more Red Bull can crushing, he gave me a ride to Wil so that Chanti and I could get some extra pitching practice in. Once we were done pitching, I taught Roman how to hit a softball. He had never tried before in his life, and I thought that this was just unacceptable haha He was not bad at all, and a quick learner. Maybe if we get to practice more, he will be great by the time I leave.
When we got back to the farm, we ate dinner and sat around with people at the restaurant for awhile. Lots of good conversation, but then I was tired so I came inside. I am going to bed now so good night!
On our way back, Roman made me drive. When we were almost back at the farm, he made me take the street that is about a 45 degree incline and stop, so that I could practice driving uphill in first gear. I did not do wonderfully, but a lot better than before. I learned a little more too, so hopefully I will do better in the future.
After a short break, and some more Red Bull can crushing, he gave me a ride to Wil so that Chanti and I could get some extra pitching practice in. Once we were done pitching, I taught Roman how to hit a softball. He had never tried before in his life, and I thought that this was just unacceptable haha He was not bad at all, and a quick learner. Maybe if we get to practice more, he will be great by the time I leave.
When we got back to the farm, we ate dinner and sat around with people at the restaurant for awhile. Lots of good conversation, but then I was tired so I came inside. I am going to bed now so good night!
8/3/11
Wednesday I ran more errands with Roman. We have a lot to get ready for the American Party on Saturday. We got tables from his aunt's house, reserved the grill, and picked up stuff for Peter's motorcycle. I like helping out.
We got back to the farm and then went to the store that is kind of Sam's Club, in order to buy groceries for the restaurant. Afterwards, Roman and I started making cornhole, because we are going to play it at the party, and he made me use the power tools. He was able to get a laugh out of it and I did not screw anything up, so that was a success.
When we went back into the house, I was on the computer and Roman came into the living room to tell me that he had just called the radio and won tickets to see the fourth Pirates movie that night at an outdoor theater. I laughed really hard and was pretty excited about that. He said that it was ok if I did not want to go because he did not have to ask me, but obviously I wanted to go.
So he took me to practice and there were seven of us. We did more live hitting and then defense. Chanti and I both were able to pitch. After practice Nadja drove me back.
Roman got home and we headed to the movie. It was in German, so I was happy that I had already seen it in English, but it was also cool to hear Johnny Depp's dubbed voice. I like his real voice better though haha It rained while we were there, but we had ponchos luckily. The whole thing was a pretty good example of the extremes I go to for Johnny Depp. The movie was in a language that I could only understand about five percent of, I sat watching it in a poncho because of the rain, and it was in 3D, but the glasses kept fogging up. Still, it was a very good night and we had a good laugh about it.
After the movie, we drove back to the farm and went to sleep. It was a good day!
We got back to the farm and then went to the store that is kind of Sam's Club, in order to buy groceries for the restaurant. Afterwards, Roman and I started making cornhole, because we are going to play it at the party, and he made me use the power tools. He was able to get a laugh out of it and I did not screw anything up, so that was a success.
When we went back into the house, I was on the computer and Roman came into the living room to tell me that he had just called the radio and won tickets to see the fourth Pirates movie that night at an outdoor theater. I laughed really hard and was pretty excited about that. He said that it was ok if I did not want to go because he did not have to ask me, but obviously I wanted to go.
So he took me to practice and there were seven of us. We did more live hitting and then defense. Chanti and I both were able to pitch. After practice Nadja drove me back.
Roman got home and we headed to the movie. It was in German, so I was happy that I had already seen it in English, but it was also cool to hear Johnny Depp's dubbed voice. I like his real voice better though haha It rained while we were there, but we had ponchos luckily. The whole thing was a pretty good example of the extremes I go to for Johnny Depp. The movie was in a language that I could only understand about five percent of, I sat watching it in a poncho because of the rain, and it was in 3D, but the glasses kept fogging up. Still, it was a very good night and we had a good laugh about it.
After the movie, we drove back to the farm and went to sleep. It was a good day!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
8/2/11
Tuesday I ran some errands with Roman in the morning. We went to get the tires replaced on the big van and then to feed Uschi's cat and turtles.
We got back to the farm in time to eat lunch, which was great because we were both starving. Then I read more of The Lord of the Rings and helped with some farm chores. It was a hot day and I was happy about that.
At 5pm, Nadja took me to the doctor around the corner because I was bitten by a tick and found it when I woke up to shower. It was not the best experience in the world, one because it is not very fun knowing almost nothing that the doctor is talking about because he is saying it in mostly in German, and two because he was pretty ridiculous, to the point where Nadja proceeded to relate the story to the rest of her family when we got home. Let's just say that other than the antibiotic cream I was given, Nadja or I could have done a better job.
After that adventure, we got some more stuff ready for the American Party. We went through all of the things we had on the list and the things that we still need to buy. I burned the cds and put the music on Nadja's computer as well, just in case. Then Nadja went back home and I had dinner with Roman and Cony, after she and Peter got out of the pool. She said it was really cold haha
I skyped with Nicole and then my mom, grandpa, and Mikey, which always makes my day, and then headed to bed.
We got back to the farm in time to eat lunch, which was great because we were both starving. Then I read more of The Lord of the Rings and helped with some farm chores. It was a hot day and I was happy about that.
At 5pm, Nadja took me to the doctor around the corner because I was bitten by a tick and found it when I woke up to shower. It was not the best experience in the world, one because it is not very fun knowing almost nothing that the doctor is talking about because he is saying it in mostly in German, and two because he was pretty ridiculous, to the point where Nadja proceeded to relate the story to the rest of her family when we got home. Let's just say that other than the antibiotic cream I was given, Nadja or I could have done a better job.
After that adventure, we got some more stuff ready for the American Party. We went through all of the things we had on the list and the things that we still need to buy. I burned the cds and put the music on Nadja's computer as well, just in case. Then Nadja went back home and I had dinner with Roman and Cony, after she and Peter got out of the pool. She said it was really cold haha
I skyped with Nicole and then my mom, grandpa, and Mikey, which always makes my day, and then headed to bed.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
8/1/11
Monday was Switzerland's Independence Day, so it was a holiday. I went for a run after waking up, sat around a bit, helped Nadja and Andi rake, and then took my second shower of the day.
After that, I went with Roman to a bonfire where we met Rolf and some of their friends. It was a lot of fun. We grilled, shot off fireworks, and listened to music. Bonfires are my favorite.
We went to a bar after that just for one drink and then came back to the farm. I was super tired and went to sleep fast.
After that, I went with Roman to a bonfire where we met Rolf and some of their friends. It was a lot of fun. We grilled, shot off fireworks, and listened to music. Bonfires are my favorite.
We went to a bar after that just for one drink and then came back to the farm. I was super tired and went to sleep fast.
Monday, August 1, 2011
7/31/11
Sunday I woke up to take T and Sonja to the train station in Wil so that they could get a train to Zurich, in order to take one from there to Paris. Roman drove and when we got back I showered. Then, I was incredibly too lazy and took a nap until 3pm.
I did not really do much of anything for the whole day in fact. I made sure that the songs for the American Party this Saturday were all set, helped a little in the restaurant, and ate dinner. Then I skyped with Greevy and went to bed.
I did not really do much of anything for the whole day in fact. I made sure that the songs for the American Party this Saturday were all set, helped a little in the restaurant, and ate dinner. Then I skyped with Greevy and went to bed.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
7/30/11
Saturday I woke up and went for a run. I still could not make it up the entire hill at the end, but I made it more than halfway, which I was happy about.
I had lunch and then went outside, watched Christof vacuum his car, then I vacuumed Roman's car, and then the house. After that I showered and went out to the restaurant. Around 6pm, I skyped with my mom and dad. At 6:40 I went to the train station in Tobel to pick up T and her teammate Sonja. They came to see me because they were trying to get a train from Zurich to Paris on Sunday. They did not get off the train at 6:43, but luckily T also told me that they might be on the one arriving at 7:10. So I waited and was very happy to see their faces around 7:13. We came back to the farm and sat down at the restaurant. Even though there were only about two people there when I left to pick them up, there were about twenty when I came back, so I helped.
Once everything settled down a bit, T and Sonja had some food and the three of us chatted with the family sitting at our table who are regulars at the restaurant. I like them a lot.
Around 11pm, the three of us went inside and checked the trains for Sunday and then Roman texted me the time that he and a friend needed to be picked up. We left to get them shortly after and sat in his car listening to music before he got in. It was fun.
Once we had collected the two guys, we headed back and dropped off his friend on the way. We stayed up a little while talking and laughing and then headed to bed. It was a good day.
I had lunch and then went outside, watched Christof vacuum his car, then I vacuumed Roman's car, and then the house. After that I showered and went out to the restaurant. Around 6pm, I skyped with my mom and dad. At 6:40 I went to the train station in Tobel to pick up T and her teammate Sonja. They came to see me because they were trying to get a train from Zurich to Paris on Sunday. They did not get off the train at 6:43, but luckily T also told me that they might be on the one arriving at 7:10. So I waited and was very happy to see their faces around 7:13. We came back to the farm and sat down at the restaurant. Even though there were only about two people there when I left to pick them up, there were about twenty when I came back, so I helped.
Once everything settled down a bit, T and Sonja had some food and the three of us chatted with the family sitting at our table who are regulars at the restaurant. I like them a lot.
Around 11pm, the three of us went inside and checked the trains for Sunday and then Roman texted me the time that he and a friend needed to be picked up. We left to get them shortly after and sat in his car listening to music before he got in. It was fun.
Once we had collected the two guys, we headed back and dropped off his friend on the way. We stayed up a little while talking and laughing and then headed to bed. It was a good day.
Friday, July 29, 2011
7/29/11
I slept in this morning, showered, and then ate lunch with the family. After lunch, I skyped with my dad and then my mom and then read more of The Lord of the Rings.
It was such a nice day, until around 5pm. Then it started to rain. Once it let up a bit, I began washing Roman's car as a thank you for him letting Patti and me borrow it last weekend. While I was washing it, people from the restaurant began to notice. A woman came up to me and gave me ten franks to wash her's as well. Then a man came up and gave me twenty. I thought that was very generous of them and I was happy to do the work.
After I was finished washing all three cars, I had some dinner and then helped wash dishes and such. I sat with Cony and a few of the customers for a little while and around 9:30 came inside.
I skyped with Grandma Carol, Jessi, and Timmy Rico! He was over my grandma's fixing her computer for her. Then I skyped with Michelle, the Schmitz family, and Sheff. It was nice to talk to everyone. I am going to bed now.
Gute Nacht!
It was such a nice day, until around 5pm. Then it started to rain. Once it let up a bit, I began washing Roman's car as a thank you for him letting Patti and me borrow it last weekend. While I was washing it, people from the restaurant began to notice. A woman came up to me and gave me ten franks to wash her's as well. Then a man came up and gave me twenty. I thought that was very generous of them and I was happy to do the work.
After I was finished washing all three cars, I had some dinner and then helped wash dishes and such. I sat with Cony and a few of the customers for a little while and around 9:30 came inside.
I skyped with Grandma Carol, Jessi, and Timmy Rico! He was over my grandma's fixing her computer for her. Then I skyped with Michelle, the Schmitz family, and Sheff. It was nice to talk to everyone. I am going to bed now.
Gute Nacht!
7/28/11
After I got ready for the day, I had lunch with the family and then Nadja came and picked me up to go buy stuff for the restaurant and the American party that is in a week and a half. We bought so much food and we were happy that we used Roman's car to go there because Nadja's probably would not have made it back haha
Once we got back, we unloaded the car and then went and bought pastries for the mechanics on our way to the garage to see how Nadja's car was doing. They obviously appreciated those and her car should be ready Friday. Cross your fingers everything is fixed!
We came back to the farm and started preparing the salad for the restaurant. When we were done with that, I folded laundry and then went back outside to help because people started showing up. It was pretty busy at first, but after an hour or two it slowed down. I like that I know how to do more things now because I feel like more of a help instead of just being in the way.
Once everyone had pretty much left, I sat and talked with Peter, and two guests named Peter and Tanya. They were very nice, but my head hurt after thinking so hard about all the German rules and such they were trying to explain better to me. It was a good evening and then I went to bed.
Once we got back, we unloaded the car and then went and bought pastries for the mechanics on our way to the garage to see how Nadja's car was doing. They obviously appreciated those and her car should be ready Friday. Cross your fingers everything is fixed!
We came back to the farm and started preparing the salad for the restaurant. When we were done with that, I folded laundry and then went back outside to help because people started showing up. It was pretty busy at first, but after an hour or two it slowed down. I like that I know how to do more things now because I feel like more of a help instead of just being in the way.
Once everyone had pretty much left, I sat and talked with Peter, and two guests named Peter and Tanya. They were very nice, but my head hurt after thinking so hard about all the German rules and such they were trying to explain better to me. It was a good evening and then I went to bed.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
7/27/11
Today Nadja and I finished cleaning the restaurant. It took hours, but now everything looks great. We took a break in the middle in order to eat lunch.
After we finished, we had a few hours before practice so I ate and then skyped with Patti. It was nice to talk with her, especially because I had just seen her for over a week and now she is gone.
Nadja and I went to practice at 7pm and there were eight of us there, which was fun. We warmed up with a game of football, in order to get our run in. After about fifteen minutes of practice it started to rain. We did live hitting first, in order to make sure that everyone got some at bats in. Everyone was able to get 5 at bats each and then we did defense until it was just way too wet because we did not want anyone to turn their ankle. A few of us practiced sliding after that because the ground was wet so the conditions were perfect. Once we were soaked and starting to get cold, we stopped and Nadja took me back to the farm.
I was so happy to shower and then I was able to skype with my Grandma Carol and my dad. Good night!
After we finished, we had a few hours before practice so I ate and then skyped with Patti. It was nice to talk with her, especially because I had just seen her for over a week and now she is gone.
Nadja and I went to practice at 7pm and there were eight of us there, which was fun. We warmed up with a game of football, in order to get our run in. After about fifteen minutes of practice it started to rain. We did live hitting first, in order to make sure that everyone got some at bats in. Everyone was able to get 5 at bats each and then we did defense until it was just way too wet because we did not want anyone to turn their ankle. A few of us practiced sliding after that because the ground was wet so the conditions were perfect. Once we were soaked and starting to get cold, we stopped and Nadja took me back to the farm.
I was so happy to shower and then I was able to skype with my Grandma Carol and my dad. Good night!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
7/26/11
I woke up this morning at Nadja's and then we headed back to the farm to clean the kitchen in the restaurant. We did a few things in there and then called it quits for the day because we will finish it tomorrow. After that, we came inside and had lunch with Cony and Andreas. Showers followed, and then Cony, Nadja, and I headed to Zurich.
They did some shopping and I got to see the pretty city again. We were there for a few hours and then made our way home.
When we got back to the farm, I skyped with Nicole, Greevy, T, and Sam all at the same time! It was really nice to talk to everyone. I spent way too much time on the computer and then headed to bed.
They did some shopping and I got to see the pretty city again. We were there for a few hours and then made our way home.
When we got back to the farm, I skyped with Nicole, Greevy, T, and Sam all at the same time! It was really nice to talk to everyone. I spent way too much time on the computer and then headed to bed.
7/25/11
On Monday, Nadja and I slept in and then we went to Säntispark. It is always so relaxing there. We did the sauna, cold pool, lay out cycle three times and then after being there for a few hours, we headed back to the farm. I got my things together again and we headed to her apartment.
We had a yummy dinner and then watched a movie. The whole day was relaxing, which was nice. I went to sleep after talking with T for a little while on skype.
We had a yummy dinner and then watched a movie. The whole day was relaxing, which was nice. I went to sleep after talking with T for a little while on skype.
Monday, July 25, 2011
7/24/11
Sunday morning Patti and I woke up early so that I could take her to the airport. We left around 7:15am and got there in plenty of time. I drove back to the farm and let her know that I made it and then she let me know that she was able to get on the flight. It worked out well and I am very happy I was able to spend a week with her!
I took a nap when I got back and then woke up and put more pictures up on facebook, caught up on my blog, and skyped with T and my family. Eric got contacts and so I was able to see him without glasses. Yay!
I helped Nadja in the restaurant a little after that and then we went to Christof's. We were only there for about half an hour and then headed back to her apartment because she had recorded the softball games on ESPN America. We ate dinner and watched softball and it was fun. Then we went to bed.
I took a nap when I got back and then woke up and put more pictures up on facebook, caught up on my blog, and skyped with T and my family. Eric got contacts and so I was able to see him without glasses. Yay!
I helped Nadja in the restaurant a little after that and then we went to Christof's. We were only there for about half an hour and then headed back to her apartment because she had recorded the softball games on ESPN America. We ate dinner and watched softball and it was fun. Then we went to bed.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
7/23/11
On Saturday, Aunt Patti and I woke up around 8:30am in order to say goodbye to Roman because he was leaving for a week for Greece. He and I joked about him making sure that he got to the airport two hours early so that he will not miss his flight haha
We ate lunch with Cony, Peter, and Nadja and then drove to Zurich. Roman let us use his car and he changed the navigation system to English so that we would be able to understand it. He is so nice! We parked in the parking garage and then headed toward Bahnhofstrasse (train station street). Patti had a list of things that she looked up for us to do in Zurich, so we headed down the street and to the train station. I showed her around inside and then we headed back down Bahnhofstrasse the other direction. Patti's list of things to do included Old Town and a beautiful church. Then we made it to the lake and headed back on the opposite side of the river. After two smoothies and a few hours in the city, Patti and I headed back toward Tobel. I showed her my field in Wil first though and she bought chocolate to bring back to Blake.
We had dinner with Cony, Peter, Nadja, Andi, Andreas, and Debbie in the restaurant and after that Patti and I went with Nadja and Andi to another restaurant where we were meeting Cony because she had left a little earlier than us. We all had a drink and talked about them hopefully coming to visit the U.S. I would love to have them!
Patti figured out her flight information once we got back and then we went to bed.
We ate lunch with Cony, Peter, and Nadja and then drove to Zurich. Roman let us use his car and he changed the navigation system to English so that we would be able to understand it. He is so nice! We parked in the parking garage and then headed toward Bahnhofstrasse (train station street). Patti had a list of things that she looked up for us to do in Zurich, so we headed down the street and to the train station. I showed her around inside and then we headed back down Bahnhofstrasse the other direction. Patti's list of things to do included Old Town and a beautiful church. Then we made it to the lake and headed back on the opposite side of the river. After two smoothies and a few hours in the city, Patti and I headed back toward Tobel. I showed her my field in Wil first though and she bought chocolate to bring back to Blake.
We had dinner with Cony, Peter, Nadja, Andi, Andreas, and Debbie in the restaurant and after that Patti and I went with Nadja and Andi to another restaurant where we were meeting Cony because she had left a little earlier than us. We all had a drink and talked about them hopefully coming to visit the U.S. I would love to have them!
Patti figured out her flight information once we got back and then we went to bed.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
7/22/11
On Friday, Patti and I checked out of our hotel, thanked the staff, and were driven to the airport. Our driver made both of us a little sick with all of the starting and stopping and then the fact that we reached 170kph at one point, which is about 105mph. Patti started praying that we would make it safely there, but the driving I had experienced in Greece was a little more terrible so I was not too worried haha
We did not have any issues with our flight and when we arrived in Zurich, Roman was waiting for us. I was really excited that Patti was going to get to see the farm and meet the people I had been living with for this whole summer! We headed back to the farm and Patti was able to see a lot of the countryside that is Switzerland. She kept agreeing with me about how beautiful everything is.
When we arrived at the farm, all of the Lehmanns were there and I was so happy! She was able to meet everyone in the family and they are not always in the same place, so that is rare hahaha We had dinner, talked with the family, showed them the American Tshirts Patti brought everyone for the American party in two weeks, and hung out at the restaurant until it was time to go to sleep. We were heading to Zurich in the morning, so we tried not to stay up way too late!
We did not have any issues with our flight and when we arrived in Zurich, Roman was waiting for us. I was really excited that Patti was going to get to see the farm and meet the people I had been living with for this whole summer! We headed back to the farm and Patti was able to see a lot of the countryside that is Switzerland. She kept agreeing with me about how beautiful everything is.
When we arrived at the farm, all of the Lehmanns were there and I was so happy! She was able to meet everyone in the family and they are not always in the same place, so that is rare hahaha We had dinner, talked with the family, showed them the American Tshirts Patti brought everyone for the American party in two weeks, and hung out at the restaurant until it was time to go to sleep. We were heading to Zurich in the morning, so we tried not to stay up way too late!
7/21/11
Thursday morning Patti and I got to sleep in! We were very happy about that.
We started our day with lunch about ten minutes away, by Piazza Navona, followed by what else but gelato. We had a lot of gelato during our lovely vacation week. When we finished eating, we explored the piazza a little more and then headed back to our hotel in order to take pictures of each of us looking out from our room. It was fun, but then I could not find Patti after she had taken my picture, and she did not see me, so we spent about ten or fifteen minutes wondering where the other person was...luckily we are BBM friends hahaha
Once we reunited, we decided to visit a few places around the Colosseum. We walked around and noticed a few areas we had not seen on our first trip that way, including the Domus Aurea, and then the Campidoglio. After those, we visited the church where La Bocca della Verità is. This is a sculpture carved of marble of a face with a mouth. The mouth is a hole and supposedly if a person tells a lie while their hand is inside, it will be bitten off. La Bocca della Verità was made famous in the movie Roman Holiday.
On our way back to the hotel afterwards, we stopped in an Irish Pub. Eric Smith told me that I needed to while I was there and I had seen it while riding back in the cab the day before. They were very friendly and I enjoyed it a lot. Plus, the news was in English so I learned a few things that are going on in the world, even if they are not so happy.
After our drink at the pub, we once again went to the rooftop bar of our hotel and said goodbye to our bartender friends. They were very nice and we even got a picture with the one that had begun to expect us each night! We ate dinner at another place around the corner that was recommended by the desk of the hotel, and they really seem to know their food! There was also such a cute family there celebrating a new house. They were so nice and we talked to them for some time.
We probably stopped for gelato after that, but I do not remember because we literally had it about twice a day for the entire week. I got to bed at a decent hour because all of the walking we had been doing that week was really tiring me out!
We started our day with lunch about ten minutes away, by Piazza Navona, followed by what else but gelato. We had a lot of gelato during our lovely vacation week. When we finished eating, we explored the piazza a little more and then headed back to our hotel in order to take pictures of each of us looking out from our room. It was fun, but then I could not find Patti after she had taken my picture, and she did not see me, so we spent about ten or fifteen minutes wondering where the other person was...luckily we are BBM friends hahaha
Once we reunited, we decided to visit a few places around the Colosseum. We walked around and noticed a few areas we had not seen on our first trip that way, including the Domus Aurea, and then the Campidoglio. After those, we visited the church where La Bocca della Verità is. This is a sculpture carved of marble of a face with a mouth. The mouth is a hole and supposedly if a person tells a lie while their hand is inside, it will be bitten off. La Bocca della Verità was made famous in the movie Roman Holiday.
On our way back to the hotel afterwards, we stopped in an Irish Pub. Eric Smith told me that I needed to while I was there and I had seen it while riding back in the cab the day before. They were very friendly and I enjoyed it a lot. Plus, the news was in English so I learned a few things that are going on in the world, even if they are not so happy.
After our drink at the pub, we once again went to the rooftop bar of our hotel and said goodbye to our bartender friends. They were very nice and we even got a picture with the one that had begun to expect us each night! We ate dinner at another place around the corner that was recommended by the desk of the hotel, and they really seem to know their food! There was also such a cute family there celebrating a new house. They were so nice and we talked to them for some time.
We probably stopped for gelato after that, but I do not remember because we literally had it about twice a day for the entire week. I got to bed at a decent hour because all of the walking we had been doing that week was really tiring me out!
7/20/11
On Wednesday, Aunt Patti and I woke up, got ready, and headed to the Galleria Borghese. It is an art gallery that is housed where the Borghese family had lived for many years and where Cardinal Scipione Borghese started the collection. There were so many beautiful paintings and sculptures, but my favorite was by far The Rape of Proserpina. It is a sculpture of Pluto, the Roman god of the underworld, capturing Proserpina, daughter of Ceres, and taking her back down with him to the underworld. The myth says that her mother was able to get permission for her daughter to come back to earth for half a year every year, and that is why in spring we have flowers because it is the earth welcoming her back. It was done by Bernini and was so detailed it was unbelievable. I am amazed with his ability to sculpt.
After getting a tour of the gallery, Patti and I rented this two person, side-by-side bike contraption with a roof over it and rode around the rest of the grounds exploring for an hour. It was a large property and there were a few different roads to choose from to explore. We went pretty much every way and after seeing the majority of the grounds, we turned in our ride and then had a cocktail and a sandwich at this really cute outdoor bar on the grounds.
We relaxed for a little while there and then went to the Spanish Steps. They are huge and beautiful, much like everything else that I was in awe about on this trip! We took pictures there and went inside the church at the top. After looking at the beautiful paintings on the walls inside, we checked out the area a little more, found a restaurant that Patti's friends recommended, even though it was not open yet so we did not eat there, and then took a cab back to our hotel. The cab driver drove us right past Piazza della Repubblica, which was one of the few places we had not seen on our own yet. So we were excited about that!
When we got back to our hotel, we went up to the roof, of course, for another cocktail and then headed around the corner for dinner. It was a cute little place about three minutes walking distance and the food was delicious! Our new bartender friend from the roof had suggested it to us and we thanked him for it when we saw him the next evening.
I think I fell asleep pretty early again that night because I was exhausted! Such a great time :-)
After getting a tour of the gallery, Patti and I rented this two person, side-by-side bike contraption with a roof over it and rode around the rest of the grounds exploring for an hour. It was a large property and there were a few different roads to choose from to explore. We went pretty much every way and after seeing the majority of the grounds, we turned in our ride and then had a cocktail and a sandwich at this really cute outdoor bar on the grounds.
We relaxed for a little while there and then went to the Spanish Steps. They are huge and beautiful, much like everything else that I was in awe about on this trip! We took pictures there and went inside the church at the top. After looking at the beautiful paintings on the walls inside, we checked out the area a little more, found a restaurant that Patti's friends recommended, even though it was not open yet so we did not eat there, and then took a cab back to our hotel. The cab driver drove us right past Piazza della Repubblica, which was one of the few places we had not seen on our own yet. So we were excited about that!
When we got back to our hotel, we went up to the roof, of course, for another cocktail and then headed around the corner for dinner. It was a cute little place about three minutes walking distance and the food was delicious! Our new bartender friend from the roof had suggested it to us and we thanked him for it when we saw him the next evening.
I think I fell asleep pretty early again that night because I was exhausted! Such a great time :-)
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
7/19/11
Today Aunt Patti and I woke up, got ready, ate breakfast, and headed to the Vatican to meet Erwin, a good friend of a friend of Patti's. He was giving us a private tour and we were both excited! We met him by the obelisk in St. Peter's Square. He toured us around St. Peter's, including the underground tombs of former Popes, and the Swiss Guard barracks, which was really cool!
I realized that I knew a lot more about Switzerland than I had realized because he and I talked about a lot of Swiss things, due to the fact that I told him I have been living there for almost two months now. Erwin has been a Swiss Guard for twelve years and was very knowledgeable about all of the happenings of Vatican City. He let us know that the summer is one of the least busy times for the Swiss Guards because the Pope goes to his summer home, which is only about 30km away, just up in the mountains. It is a five minute helicopter flight!
After our private tour, Patti, Erwin, and I went for lunch. We walked a few blocks away, down a really pretty street, and continued with great conversation. I was really happy that I was able to meet Erwin because he seems like a wonderful person.
After lunch, we said goodbye to Erwin and Patti and I went to see the Sistine Chapel. This was not something that we will need to do again, unless we have a private tour. While the actual Chapel that Michelangelo painted was absolutely stunning, we had to walk through a maze of other rooms, that were also beautiful, but there were at least thirty of them and SO MANY PEOPLE! We felt like herded cattle. Now, you are not actually supposed to take pictures in the Chapel, but after walking for over an hour to actually get to it, and seeing so many other people trying to be stealthy and taking pictures as well, I took some. I kept the flash off so as not to draw attention to myself, but some of the pictures came out pretty well anyway, which I was happy about.
Exiting the Sistine Chapel was not as complicated as getting to it, thankfully. Patti and I walked to a more southeastern location from the Vatican, where two of her friends recommended and is considered to be less touristy. It was the Trastevere neighborhood and we could tell that there were a lot more Romans there than in other sections. We had ice cream and then dinner there and everything was very good.
After dinner we made our way back to the hotel and I fell asleep right away. I was exhausted!
I realized that I knew a lot more about Switzerland than I had realized because he and I talked about a lot of Swiss things, due to the fact that I told him I have been living there for almost two months now. Erwin has been a Swiss Guard for twelve years and was very knowledgeable about all of the happenings of Vatican City. He let us know that the summer is one of the least busy times for the Swiss Guards because the Pope goes to his summer home, which is only about 30km away, just up in the mountains. It is a five minute helicopter flight!
After our private tour, Patti, Erwin, and I went for lunch. We walked a few blocks away, down a really pretty street, and continued with great conversation. I was really happy that I was able to meet Erwin because he seems like a wonderful person.
After lunch, we said goodbye to Erwin and Patti and I went to see the Sistine Chapel. This was not something that we will need to do again, unless we have a private tour. While the actual Chapel that Michelangelo painted was absolutely stunning, we had to walk through a maze of other rooms, that were also beautiful, but there were at least thirty of them and SO MANY PEOPLE! We felt like herded cattle. Now, you are not actually supposed to take pictures in the Chapel, but after walking for over an hour to actually get to it, and seeing so many other people trying to be stealthy and taking pictures as well, I took some. I kept the flash off so as not to draw attention to myself, but some of the pictures came out pretty well anyway, which I was happy about.
Exiting the Sistine Chapel was not as complicated as getting to it, thankfully. Patti and I walked to a more southeastern location from the Vatican, where two of her friends recommended and is considered to be less touristy. It was the Trastevere neighborhood and we could tell that there were a lot more Romans there than in other sections. We had ice cream and then dinner there and everything was very good.
After dinner we made our way back to the hotel and I fell asleep right away. I was exhausted!
Monday, July 18, 2011
7/18/11
Happy Birthday Jack!
This morning Patti and I slept in. After getting up and ready, we headed into the Pantheon because it was not open to the public on Sunday. It was huge and beautiful and we were able to see where Raphael was buried. After checking everything out in there, we headed to the Colosseum.
In case you did not know, I have wanted to see the Colosseum, in person, since I knew it existed. So as you can imagine, today was a bit exciting for me. It was very surreal however, being in this city where so much history has taken place, pictures and movies have been shot, and seeing everything up close. When Aunt Patti and I were going through our tour given by Paolo, and hearing all about gladiators and such, which made me think of watching that show with my mom by the way, it was hard for me to truly believe that I was there. I am still getting used to the concept of travelling the world it seems.
After our tour of the Colosseum, we grabbed a bite to eat and took the second part of the tour with our next guide, Jill. This consisted of Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Everything is so old and it amazes me what has been able to be kept intact. I love it!
Patti and I headed back to take more pictures in front of the Colosseum after our second tour was completed and then we headed back to our hotel. There we had a cocktail and then went and grabbed dinner. She had gnocchi and I had lasagna. We came back to go to sleep after a quick stop for more gelato haha I have so many pictures though that it takes me forever to sort and edit them all...I do not mind though :-) Wonderful future memories!
This morning Patti and I slept in. After getting up and ready, we headed into the Pantheon because it was not open to the public on Sunday. It was huge and beautiful and we were able to see where Raphael was buried. After checking everything out in there, we headed to the Colosseum.
In case you did not know, I have wanted to see the Colosseum, in person, since I knew it existed. So as you can imagine, today was a bit exciting for me. It was very surreal however, being in this city where so much history has taken place, pictures and movies have been shot, and seeing everything up close. When Aunt Patti and I were going through our tour given by Paolo, and hearing all about gladiators and such, which made me think of watching that show with my mom by the way, it was hard for me to truly believe that I was there. I am still getting used to the concept of travelling the world it seems.
After our tour of the Colosseum, we grabbed a bite to eat and took the second part of the tour with our next guide, Jill. This consisted of Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Everything is so old and it amazes me what has been able to be kept intact. I love it!
Patti and I headed back to take more pictures in front of the Colosseum after our second tour was completed and then we headed back to our hotel. There we had a cocktail and then went and grabbed dinner. She had gnocchi and I had lasagna. We came back to go to sleep after a quick stop for more gelato haha I have so many pictures though that it takes me forever to sort and edit them all...I do not mind though :-) Wonderful future memories!
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