We just spent our first weekend in our new home! Every day I love it even more. I don't know how I lived my life without windows under which I can lay and gaze at the clouds. There's even such a window over my master bathtub! My favorite room is the top floor, I guess it's a loft? We can see out over the countryside and feel the lovely breeze with the windows open. Yesterday Chris and I played several hands of cards sitting under those windows.
Much to Chris's delight, we purchased a television. It's one of those fancy flat screens, and our satellite should be set up this week so we can watch it. We went cheapo on the tv channels, it costs 500 euro to set up the actual satellite receiver so we decided to buy a 60 euro digital receiver and pick up all the numerous free channels available, there is no monthly fee. Eventually we will purchase an AFN decoder and pick up the Armed Forces Network channels as well, I've decided the talk shows on it are a month behind from the U.S. which really isn't bad.
We experienced our first festival this weekend, the Altstadtfest in Kaiserslautern. It was not as exciting as I had anticipated, yet it was fun. We walked around the streets full of food and alcohol vendors, with music performance stages set up at intervals. One street was very cool, it was medieval-looking.
We recieved our first shipment this morning! The movers showed up before 7am, but that's just fine because we didn't have to sit around all day waiting and wondering when they would come. We now have bedding, towels, dishes, cooking supplies, clothes, and other miscellaneous items. It's exciting though, we've been putting things away. I now have a mound of dishes to wash before we use them, we tried to start the dishwasher the other day and it didn't work, so we need to call the landlord.
I love recycling! We have only 1 grocery bag full of trash, but 2 huge overflowing piles of recyclables! The Germans don't mess around with recycling, if we put something in the wrong bin they will bill us for having to sort it out. It's a little confusing as to what goes where, so we have a pamphlet up on the refrigerator that we refer to frequently.
Now we're off to get our BMW! We have to take it for a second inspection and get it licensed. Then we'll grocery shop at the commissary and take Chris's dress blues to the dry cleaner, they came today and he's supposed to wear them Wednesday.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
German Cars
We began our early morning today with a medical briefing. Guess what Mom - the Air Force purchased and handed out How To Take Care Of Yourself books! Now I won't have to call you in the middle of the night with random ailments.
I explored the Education Office today, and spent a lot of time sitting in Chris's office. We had the briefing at 8, and then at 2 we went to the car dealership to take our car for a military inspection. Chris said it drove very nicely, I would expect so!
We found out the car won't be ready till Monday, so we rented a hilarious little bright yellow VW fox for the weekend. It was sandwiched between 2 other cars, so I squeezed into the drivers seat and put it in neutral so Chris could push it out and get in. Of course with reverse on the left, I freak out about where reverse, first, and third are, and end up killing it 3 times because I was starting in third. Chris and I switched places, and I then remembered my dad showing me that VWs push down for reverse, so we finally figured out where the gears were.
We're going to begin moving our belongings to the duplex tonight, and check out of the hotel in the morning. Sadly, I will no longer have internet :-( I tried to set up internet with the service on base, but they do not have lines in the area of our house. So we called the landlord to ask about the German telephones and internet, and she told us the office that speaks English! Tomorrow I'll go start setting that up, though the Germans are more relaxed than Americans and it will probably take at least 2 weeks for our internet to get set up. Until then I'll take my laptop to the library so I can check my email and make exciting updates!
Chris has Friday off since it is the fourth of July, though it's not a holiday in Germany, obviously. We're planning on doing some furniture shopping, the nearest Ikea is in Mannheim :-) This weekend there is a big festival in Kaiserslautern so we thought we would go experience it, and Chris can drink some beer! Sunday I'll try to convince Chris to take a walk and explore our new little town, Steinwenden.
Callie is a silly cat. I've just about decided she is part dove, she coos quite a bit. She's obsessed with running water, we need to find her a pet water fountain. I'm happy we will have a backyard for her to roam around and do her kitty cat activities in. She's almost at the point where she will walk alongside me while she's on her leash, it's pretty funny.
I explored the Education Office today, and spent a lot of time sitting in Chris's office. We had the briefing at 8, and then at 2 we went to the car dealership to take our car for a military inspection. Chris said it drove very nicely, I would expect so!
We found out the car won't be ready till Monday, so we rented a hilarious little bright yellow VW fox for the weekend. It was sandwiched between 2 other cars, so I squeezed into the drivers seat and put it in neutral so Chris could push it out and get in. Of course with reverse on the left, I freak out about where reverse, first, and third are, and end up killing it 3 times because I was starting in third. Chris and I switched places, and I then remembered my dad showing me that VWs push down for reverse, so we finally figured out where the gears were.
We're going to begin moving our belongings to the duplex tonight, and check out of the hotel in the morning. Sadly, I will no longer have internet :-( I tried to set up internet with the service on base, but they do not have lines in the area of our house. So we called the landlord to ask about the German telephones and internet, and she told us the office that speaks English! Tomorrow I'll go start setting that up, though the Germans are more relaxed than Americans and it will probably take at least 2 weeks for our internet to get set up. Until then I'll take my laptop to the library so I can check my email and make exciting updates!
Chris has Friday off since it is the fourth of July, though it's not a holiday in Germany, obviously. We're planning on doing some furniture shopping, the nearest Ikea is in Mannheim :-) This weekend there is a big festival in Kaiserslautern so we thought we would go experience it, and Chris can drink some beer! Sunday I'll try to convince Chris to take a walk and explore our new little town, Steinwenden.
Callie is a silly cat. I've just about decided she is part dove, she coos quite a bit. She's obsessed with running water, we need to find her a pet water fountain. I'm happy we will have a backyard for her to roam around and do her kitty cat activities in. She's almost at the point where she will walk alongside me while she's on her leash, it's pretty funny.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Autobahn, here we come!
Today Chris and I took the German drivers license test - and we both passed! I earned a 97%, and Chris a 90%. It's a very large step to our newfound German independence.
Tomorrow we will test-drive our car, and take it to another base for the military inspection, then the dealer will send it for it's BMW inspection. We may rent a car until ours is ready to go.
This evening we met with our landlord who gave us our keys!!! I'm so excited. The backyard has plenty of grass, but the front yard has a pretty tree and lots of weeds. I'm going to stop by a Blumen and find pretty flowers to plant. We also signed the papers for electric and gas, and earlier today I set up our land phone line and DSL service.
Our shipments are coming! The unaccompanied baggage will be delivered on July 7, and the household goods shipment will be here at the end of July, one whole month before I expected it! I'm not a material person, but I think I'll feel more comfortable and at home when I have familiar surroundings.
Tomorrow we will test-drive our car, and take it to another base for the military inspection, then the dealer will send it for it's BMW inspection. We may rent a car until ours is ready to go.
This evening we met with our landlord who gave us our keys!!! I'm so excited. The backyard has plenty of grass, but the front yard has a pretty tree and lots of weeds. I'm going to stop by a Blumen and find pretty flowers to plant. We also signed the papers for electric and gas, and earlier today I set up our land phone line and DSL service.
Our shipments are coming! The unaccompanied baggage will be delivered on July 7, and the household goods shipment will be here at the end of July, one whole month before I expected it! I'm not a material person, but I think I'll feel more comfortable and at home when I have familiar surroundings.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Tour of Kaiserslautern
Today started with another early alarm, I am happy that I get to stay home and sleep in tomorrow! Poor Chris, he has to go to work. Oh wait, that's why we're here. This morning we squared away important stuff at the housing office about our place. The nice German ladies in the housing office translated our last name for us...and couldn't stop laughing. Quattlebaum: of course "baum" means "tree" in German, but the "quattle" was always a mystery. Chris always told me it meant "shade," which I had my doubts about. Apparently "quattle" was traditionally spelled "quattel," and it is a word for "pimple." Chris decided he ended up with that because of a tall, acne-ridden ancestor: pimpletree.
For most of the day we were on an Air Force introduction tour to Kaiserslautern, the main community in the area. It was nice to get into a larger place, we've been busy in little villages and on base. Here are the photos from our sights.
Our lunch was quite an interesting experience. The ambiance and food were great, we sat out in the biergarten with people on our tour whom we had flown into Ramstein with. It was gorgeous and sunny, but then the clouds and torrential downpour came, also bringing hail. We were all soaked, and it was quite memorable. Luckily we were done eating when the rain came, even though we had a large umbrella over our table the rain was very hard, and the umbrella leaked, so the plates collected water.
Back home and changed into dry clothes, we decided to venture out and go to Ramstein-Miesenbach, to find used car dealers. Sounds easy, right? We walked to the next village and caught the correct bus, but due to my confusion we got off the bus at the wrong stop, and had to walk a few kilometers from Miesenbach to Ramstein. Once in Ramstein, we found new construction, which affected all the bus routes so we didn't know where the bus would come in that town, and ended up walking back to Miesenbach to catch the bus home. We were also unsuccessful in finding the advertised dealerships. We found where they were supposed to be, but we were surrounded by car rental places and other such things. So we should sleep well, we walked several kilometers today!
It is so frustrating to try and get ourselves established and functioning here. We had briefings, but they gave us information we were already aware of or could have figured out. We were lucky in finding our house, it was the second place we looked at. But finding a car proves to be much more difficult. It would be helpful if we hadn't been switched to a sponsor who pretends we don't exist. The people that I would expect to help us, to remember what it's like to be the new kid, don't care to assist. Chris and I are bound and determined to be helpful when people arrive in his office, offering rides and advice. It makes me so mad when people say "well have you done this yet?" when we didn't have a clue to do it, or don't have the means to complete the task. Once we get a car, I think things will be much better. I'm really ready to just be settled in the house, that will be comforting as well.
I'm such a fan of the Germans! The more I learn about them, the more I see my German heritage reflected in my lifestyle. They are very clean, organized people. Germans love their rules! They have laws, and they follow them. They will turn in others who don't follow them. It's great - they know what they are supposed to do and they do it! I have used my German a lot, and the people I've spoken to seem appreciative that I'm trying. We've been told that Germans like that we try to speak the language, reaching out to their culture, but they will end up speaking English with us so they can practice it. Germans are great gardeners too, we see lots of Blumen shops, and there are always planted and potted flowers around. Most times when Germans actually have a yard, rather than grass it is decorated with beautiful plants. We are happy to have a little front yard and a nice backyard so that we can plant flowers and take part. Germans are incredibly envrionmental as well, you should see their elaborate recycling system! Waste makes up hardly any of the materials, so many things are recycled and biodegraded. Since the World Cup is going on, Germans are full of national pride. Most cars that drive by are decorated with German flags. When the German team is playing a game, the roars of cheers and claps float throughout the village.
For most of the day we were on an Air Force introduction tour to Kaiserslautern, the main community in the area. It was nice to get into a larger place, we've been busy in little villages and on base. Here are the photos from our sights.
Our lunch was quite an interesting experience. The ambiance and food were great, we sat out in the biergarten with people on our tour whom we had flown into Ramstein with. It was gorgeous and sunny, but then the clouds and torrential downpour came, also bringing hail. We were all soaked, and it was quite memorable. Luckily we were done eating when the rain came, even though we had a large umbrella over our table the rain was very hard, and the umbrella leaked, so the plates collected water.
Back home and changed into dry clothes, we decided to venture out and go to Ramstein-Miesenbach, to find used car dealers. Sounds easy, right? We walked to the next village and caught the correct bus, but due to my confusion we got off the bus at the wrong stop, and had to walk a few kilometers from Miesenbach to Ramstein. Once in Ramstein, we found new construction, which affected all the bus routes so we didn't know where the bus would come in that town, and ended up walking back to Miesenbach to catch the bus home. We were also unsuccessful in finding the advertised dealerships. We found where they were supposed to be, but we were surrounded by car rental places and other such things. So we should sleep well, we walked several kilometers today!
It is so frustrating to try and get ourselves established and functioning here. We had briefings, but they gave us information we were already aware of or could have figured out. We were lucky in finding our house, it was the second place we looked at. But finding a car proves to be much more difficult. It would be helpful if we hadn't been switched to a sponsor who pretends we don't exist. The people that I would expect to help us, to remember what it's like to be the new kid, don't care to assist. Chris and I are bound and determined to be helpful when people arrive in his office, offering rides and advice. It makes me so mad when people say "well have you done this yet?" when we didn't have a clue to do it, or don't have the means to complete the task. Once we get a car, I think things will be much better. I'm really ready to just be settled in the house, that will be comforting as well.
I'm such a fan of the Germans! The more I learn about them, the more I see my German heritage reflected in my lifestyle. They are very clean, organized people. Germans love their rules! They have laws, and they follow them. They will turn in others who don't follow them. It's great - they know what they are supposed to do and they do it! I have used my German a lot, and the people I've spoken to seem appreciative that I'm trying. We've been told that Germans like that we try to speak the language, reaching out to their culture, but they will end up speaking English with us so they can practice it. Germans are great gardeners too, we see lots of Blumen shops, and there are always planted and potted flowers around. Most times when Germans actually have a yard, rather than grass it is decorated with beautiful plants. We are happy to have a little front yard and a nice backyard so that we can plant flowers and take part. Germans are incredibly envrionmental as well, you should see their elaborate recycling system! Waste makes up hardly any of the materials, so many things are recycled and biodegraded. Since the World Cup is going on, Germans are full of national pride. Most cars that drive by are decorated with German flags. When the German team is playing a game, the roars of cheers and claps float throughout the village.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
A Place To Call Our Own
We found our home! It's a great duplex, the one I raved about in the last post ;-) We met with the landlord today (who thankfully is American so we can communicate clearly in English, and she's super nice) and worked on the contract. Here's some photos!
Today we had a long briefing about Ramstein information. Tomorrow we get to go on a tour of the Kaiserslautern area, we are part of the Kaiserslautern Military Community. We're so ready to have our drivers licenses and a car, it's hard to depend on people for rides so much. Particularly when everyone in Chris's office is too busy. My goal for new people coming in is to help them out with the transition and helping them know what they need to do - help that we did not easily or fully receive. But we're smart kids, we've figured it out. That doesn't mean I'm not frustrated! I'll be pleased when we move in next week and get our car, we plan to start shopping tomorrow. BMW, here we come! You can't live in Germany and not drive a manual BMW on the autobahn.
My Grandpa Dukie passed away over the weekend, and I'm sad I cannot be with my family right now. But I love them and they know I would be there if I could. I miss my grandpa already, it's hard to believe he won't be there when I return. He used to call friends on their birthdays and play "Happy Birthday" on the organ ;-) He was a great car salesman, so his wisdom will be with us as we search for the right car.
Today we had a long briefing about Ramstein information. Tomorrow we get to go on a tour of the Kaiserslautern area, we are part of the Kaiserslautern Military Community. We're so ready to have our drivers licenses and a car, it's hard to depend on people for rides so much. Particularly when everyone in Chris's office is too busy. My goal for new people coming in is to help them out with the transition and helping them know what they need to do - help that we did not easily or fully receive. But we're smart kids, we've figured it out. That doesn't mean I'm not frustrated! I'll be pleased when we move in next week and get our car, we plan to start shopping tomorrow. BMW, here we come! You can't live in Germany and not drive a manual BMW on the autobahn.
My Grandpa Dukie passed away over the weekend, and I'm sad I cannot be with my family right now. But I love them and they know I would be there if I could. I miss my grandpa already, it's hard to believe he won't be there when I return. He used to call friends on their birthdays and play "Happy Birthday" on the organ ;-) He was a great car salesman, so his wisdom will be with us as we search for the right car.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Where shall we live?
We are so far north that it is 10:19 pm and I can still see light outside, though the sunset is almost over. It was a lovely day, Callie and I lounged in the garden this evening. Earlier this afternoon, Chris and I went to base to call landlords and make appointments to see houses. We also scoped out the PX (it has german-capable electronics), the credit union on base, and cell phones. This evening we had 2 appointments to see housing! The first was an apartment in a building that the family lived in as well. It was beautiful on the outside, and the inside was nice but it was a bit small. I totally missed the master bedroom, Chris said it was just inside the entryway. There was a laundry room in the basement, which we would share with the family. Our next stop was a duplex on a street on the outskirts of a village that has an amazing view. The moment we stepped inside the door, I fell in love! It is the most beautiful place! I want it, can you tell? We still have a few appointments, so we decided to see another place we are interested in tomorrow, and then pretty much decide. I seriously doubt there will be another place as wonderful as the duplex, I assume they will mostly be like the apartment. We also visited an apartment in an apartment building that Chris's friend wants us to take because she's moving, but even after she saw the duplex she said forget her place, go with the duplex. It is exciting to go see places, I've never had the chance to pick one out since I moved into the apartment my roomie had been living in for 2 years already, though I loved it. I am interested to see what tomorrow brings!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Lazy Day
Today was gorgeous and I spent much of it outside! Callie isn't sure about Germany yet, here she is hiding in the bushes.
I went for a walk in Rodenbach and it is a cozy German town. I found 3 Italian restaurants, the bakery, and I ventured into the drugstore. In the distance past the houses are tall tree-covered hills.
Chris had a successful day at work, he completed most of his inprocessing and started working a bit. He has a desk but no computer, I suppose he'll have to do his calculations by hand ;-) Tomorrow we will both go to base and call to make appointments to visit housing we are interested in.
I spent some time outside in the garden with Callie while studying the Germany driver's manual. Did you know that people already in a roundabout don't necessarily have the right of way? If it's not marked, they don't have the right of way. There's little things here and there that are confusing, but we went through half of the questions this evening and seem to be doing okay so far.
I went for a walk in Rodenbach and it is a cozy German town. I found 3 Italian restaurants, the bakery, and I ventured into the drugstore. In the distance past the houses are tall tree-covered hills.
Chris had a successful day at work, he completed most of his inprocessing and started working a bit. He has a desk but no computer, I suppose he'll have to do his calculations by hand ;-) Tomorrow we will both go to base and call to make appointments to visit housing we are interested in.
I spent some time outside in the garden with Callie while studying the Germany driver's manual. Did you know that people already in a roundabout don't necessarily have the right of way? If it's not marked, they don't have the right of way. There's little things here and there that are confusing, but we went through half of the questions this evening and seem to be doing okay so far.
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