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
Monday, September 26, 2011
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!
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