The Zany Adventures of a Fairfield Girl in Germany

Stationery card

2012-02-07T13:04:00.001-08:00

Vintage Heart Valentine's Card

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Sharing the love a little early. My adorable little heartbreaker!

6 weeks post partum

2012-01-18T10:57:00.000-08:00

I had my post partum checkup at the OB on Monday. It seems weird, after a month of trying to get pregnant, including charting my period and ovulation prediction, and 35 weeks of a pregnancy, it is all officially over.

The exam went well. Everything is returning to normal. The doctor gave me a bunch of exercises to do. She checked my incision, it is healing very well. I was given the green light to return to normal activity, and even perscribed birth control. We brought Erbse with us, because we knew the doctor would be very happy to see him.

Most exciting though was that it way the first time I was weighed since my pregnancy. I have 5 pounds to lose to be back down to my pre-pregnancy weight! Of course, my body has changed ridiculously by the pregnancy, and my stomach is extra squishy, but I am really proud of myself for not gaining that much weight through the pregnancy.

I looked back into my "Mutterpass" tonight, or "mother's passport." It documents the pregnancy from my first visit at 6 weeks to Monday's post partum visit. It was nice looking back and remembering each doctor's appointment, especially the exciement of seeing Erbse on the ultrasound monitor. I really loved being pregnant, and sometimes feel a little twinge of sadness when I think about the fact that I missed out on the last month of the pregnancy. I never got to see a part of Erbse stick out from my stomach, I only experienced hicups once, and I never got to experience "nesting," or even finish the nursery (even now, it isn't finished.) I loved the excitement of it all. I loved feeling every kick and flutter. I loved the anticipation. But, with all that, I wouldn't have changed a thing, I'm so happy that Ryan was born when he was. We have a beautiful, healthy baby boy who I love more and more every day.

The whole journey started in September of 2010 with the first pregnacy. From then until Monday, there has always been some thought in my head about pregnancy. And now, its all over.

Ryan's first Christmas

2012-01-17T03:08:00.000-08:00

Well, my goal is to get this post completed before Jan 25th, so if I can get this done today, then I would say that I'm doing good :)

In November, Joern and I went to the Women's Clinic in Stuttgart, to set up an appointment for my elective c-section. I was hoping that our little Erbse would be born on December 27, because I wanted Ryan to bake as long as possible, AND, I was looking forward to Ryan's first Christmas being with an almost one year old. With my due date being so close to Christmas I knew that no matter when he was born, birthday and Christmas were going to fall periously closely. But when we got to the Women's Clinic, we spoke with cheif doctors, who explained that the best date for my c-section would be on December 23. So, we left the Women's Clinic that day fully expecting to spend Christmas 2011 in the hospital with a two day old baby.

Of course, Erbse had different plans. I'm very glad he chose his Grandpa's birthday for his own birthday, and not the 23rd of December. We were able to spend Christmas 2011 in our new house with our 3 week old baby. It was magical, and memorable, and well, probably the most special Christmas ever.

Ryan's first Christmas started out like this:

If you ever watched Seinfeld, the above picture reminds me of the "Puffy Shirt" episode, in which Jerry exclaims "But, I don't wanna be a pirate," before going on a morning TV show. Joern and I joked, if Erbse could only talk, he would have said in the same winy voice, "But, I don't wanna be an elf!" It was on Christmas morning that I found out that Ryan is not such a fan of hats, we're still working on this one.

Mommy quickly learned that hats should go high on one's head, and not come anywhere near Erbse's eyebrows, and then, things got much better, and Ryan's first Christmas became quite enjoyable.

The cutest present under the tree :)

Mommy got in a good Christmas morning cuddle.

Daddy got to open gifts with Ryan:

It was a really quiet day. Oma was sick, so it was just Mommy, Daddy, and Erbse all day. Christmas is usually so hectic, so it was nice to spend a very quiet day as a little family.

We got to Skype with step-grandma and Grandpa too, which was the best we could do given that we're very far from Grandpa.

Although it was unlike any other Christmas before, it was by far my favorite Christmas ever!

Where is my little baby?

2012-01-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

So, one day this blog will not be only baby, but please bear with me, right now, my life is only baby.

I mentioned in my last post that little Erbse was eating like a champ. Well, he is growing like a champ as well!
I guess a little backstory is in order. Ryan came home 2 weeks ago. Although he was not eating the specified 480 ml per day, nor was he even eating 70- 80 ml six times a day, he was regaining some of the weight that he lost from his birthweight. Ryan was released from the hospital weighing a whopping 2900 g, which was up from his lowest of 2840 g. The requirements for release were that he was eating, and that he started gaining weight, both of which he was slowly doing. We still had the problem that Ryan was falling asleep during feeds, so that he was eating about 30- 50 ml per feed, which left him with a feeding defecit at the end of every day. Yet despite this, he was gaining weight, and the doctors did not believe he needed a feeding tube again, so he was released.

Somehow, I thought that because Ryan was a preemie, and wearing preemie clothes when he came home, that we would have a little while in his super-cutie newborn outfits. Since we have been home, Ryan has become an eating machine! And, he has been growing! On his second day home, I put Ryan in his brand new "Born to Play for VfB" outfit (VfB is the Stuttgart professional soccer team.) Here is my two week old super-cutie in his outfit:

And, last week, I put on the same outfit, and realized it was the last day he was going to be able to wear the outfit, it was just long enough but the feet were a little snug.

I have such mixed emotions about retiring my little Erbse's newborn clothes.

I'm 3 weeks old today!

2011-12-23T12:49:00.000-08:00

Today is a funny day for me, one with mixed emotions. Only a few short weeks ago, Joern and I walked into the Women's Clinic in Stuttgart, and set a date for my c-section. Today was the day I was supposed to have had my baby.
Instead, we have a 3 week old. We have a 12 day hospital stay behind us, and our first full week at home is also past. We're starting to learn more about Erbse's personality, and we just had a big discussion today about how much Ryan has grown. Erbse doesn't look like a newborn anymore, his chubby cheeks, while still chubby, have slimmed down a bit, and when he opens his eyes, they are wide and taking in everything. It is incredible that our baby has changed so much in such a short time, and it is a funny realization to make on the day when he was scheduled to be born.

I have mixed emotions because I wouldn't change a thing, but I also know that things would be different had Erbse decided to stay in until today. Of course, how different is something we'll never know. It just wasn't in the cards for Erbse to be born today.

I am so proud of my little boy, for overcoming his problems with eating early on. He is growing like a weed and eating like one of those guys at the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. And of course, he is so adorable.

So happy 3rd week Erbse! Your Daddy and I love you so very much and can't wait to see what the next 3 weeks bring!

RYAN IS HERE!

2011-12-17T13:56:00.000-08:00

Well, most of you readers now know, Ryan is here! He made his appearence on Friday, the 2nd of December, 2011. So yes, he is already 2 weeks old! Although he has only been with us a short time so far, it seems hard to imagine our lives without him anymore. We are so in love!

After I completed my post on Thursday night, I decided to lay down on the couch for a while. My back was hurting pretty bad, and I still had not decided if my back pain was due to my back problems or a sign of labor. I went upstairs at about 10:00 to assort all of the gifts we had received at the showers, because they were all just sitting in the middle of the room for a few days. I wanted to start assorting to know what we had, what we needed, and to start making room for the furniture delivery. I worked for about an hour, but by then, my back was really painful, and I was tired, so we went to bed.
At 5:00 am, I was happily asleep, when all of a sudden, I felt this gigantic gush, and I knew immediately that my water had broken. I jumped out of bed, and woke Joern and said, "we need to go to the hospital now."
Of course, I had not packed a bag for the hospital, because that was on the day's plan for Friday. So, once the flow of fluid calmed a bit, I asked Joern to go get his mom, ask her for some pads, and once she got here, I ran around for a few minutes packing some clothes, some towels, and of course, Erbse's "welcome home outfit." I also had to find my "Mutterpass" or "Mother's passport."

While I was getting ready, Joern called the hospital in Stuttgart, where we had planned my c-section for the 23rd of December. Surprisingly, they told Joern that they were full, and suggested that we go to the hospital in Esslingen. So, Joern called Esslingen, and they said that of course, we should come right away. Joern, his mother, and I all loaded into the car. The only things I kept saying were, "We're going to meet our little boy today" and "Holy cow, how much water is there?"

We arrived at the hospital at 6:00 am, and they met us outside with a stretcher. I was wheeled into the birthing center, and immediately, hooked up to a NST. Erbse's heartbeat was as strong as ever, and it showed I was continuing to have contractions, which I was still not feeling. A doctor came in and informed me that they were going to do some bloodwork to check for infection. If I did not have any signs of infection, they would monitor me over the next few days, and were hoping to keep Erbse in for a few more days. Then, they brought me into another room, where we waited.

We called my father not too long after I was off the NST. Afterall, not only was Dad's grandson on the way, but it was around 1:00 in the morning, which meant it was Dad's birthday too! I can imagine, it was a good reason to wake Dad up, to tell him that he and his grandson were going to share a birthday!

Around 10:00, I started having contractions, they lasted about 1 minute and came every 5 minutes. My contractions were mostly all in my back, and they were painful, but handlable.

At 11:00, Dr. Kindermann, which is a very cool name for the chief doctor of the birthing center, to discuss a cesarian. We discussed the reasons why I was leaning towards a c-section. He agreed that it would be the best course of action, given my strange back and neck issues, and then told me that I would be having my cesarian that afternoon. Afterwards, the anesthesiologist came in and we discussed options for anesthesia. Evidently, because of my prolapsed disk, and not knowing the location, general anesthesia could have been an option. But, then, we told her of the problems that the anesthesiologist encountered during my operation last year, where he had problems inserting and removing my breathing tube. She decided that it was probably a more dangerous decision to go with general anesthesia, so the decision was made to go with spinal anesthesia.

At around 1:00, I was brought back to a birthing room, where I was again hooked up to an NST. The results of the bloodwork had come back, and I had elevated white blood cell levels, although that was probably attributed to my arthritis which had flared up really bad in the weeks before Ryan's birth. I was hooked up to an antiobiotic drip, as a preventative measure.

At 2:00, two nurses came to get me, to prep me for surgery. Joern was taken to another room, and a few nurses prepped him to enter the operating room. I was scared, nervous, and excited. The operating room was really frightening. Since I had general anesthesia last time, I didn't remember much of the OR, but this time, I was wide awake while they curled me into a ball, and had to inject the needle twice because they had problems straightening my back enough. Once the spinal was inserted, the doctors rolled me onto my back, and strapped my legs and arms, which is not my favorite experience. They then put up the paper tent in front of my face, so that I could not see anything. I have to admit, I was starting to wonder if this was really the best decision. Of course, the whole time, the only thing going through my head was "we shouldn't be here, Erbse should still be baking." I could no longer feel anything below my ribs.

The doctor told me that she was going to start cleaning my belly area, and a nurse explained to me that I will have some sensation, kind of like "going to the dentist." Of course, this totally freaked me out, because I didn't really enjoy my wisdom tooth removal. They also warned me that people often get nauseated, due to the combination of the anesthesia, mixed with the knowledge of what's going on behind the tent, and that I needed to tell them if I felt nauseous, that they would then administer another medication.

And then, they brought Joern in. He was wearing blue scrubs, and they sat him on a stool near my head. Joern rubbed my shoulder, and I kept looking at him, which helped a lot. The doctor then said, "we're going to begin." Of course, I had no idea how long everything was, but it seemed that in about 3 minutes, I heard a lot of scrambling around and then the most beautiful sound ever- A HUGE SCREAM! With thankful tears streaming down my face, they rushed Erbse to the peditrician waiting. A few minutes later, they asked Joern to come join them, while they finished sewing me up. Joern returned to the OR a few minutes after, with a huge smile on his face. Erbse was very healthy and perfect in every way.

Once the doctors finished, they wheeled me to the recovery room, and on the way, they stopped by an isolette- and proceeded to remove the sweetest little baby ever, and place him on my chest. Oh yeah, this adorable little guy just happened to be our precious Erbse. As our luck would have it, our camera battery died, and we have no proof of this event :(

After cuddling for a minute or so, Erbse was placed back in his isolette, and I was wheeled off to the recovery room. Joern joined me for a few minutes, made sure I was okay, and ran up to the special care newborn nursery, where Erbse was to spend the first few days of his life. Joern returned to me a while later to report that Erbse was indeed doing quite well, only hooked up to a heartrate monitor, and they had him on a temperature controlled mattress. He drank well the first night too.

I was in the recovery room for about an hour, I had to stay there until I could move my legs again. Once I was able to move my legs, they brought me to my room in the OB area. I had to stay in my room until around 8:30 pm, which was hard because I just wanted to go see Erbse. But, it was probably good, once I was in my room, I was placed on some pain meds, which were really necessary as the pain was getting pretty bad. But, by around 8:30, the pain meds had kicked in, and I was able to get out of bed. Surprisingly, it wasn't bad, just felt like a giant rubber band was pulling me in towards myself. I was able to spend about half an hour with Erbse up in his room, before being brought back down to the room for the night.

What an incredible day! The doctor did warn me at the beginning of the week that Erbse might be on his way, and that she really hoped that I would make it to my appointment on Dec. 13. Obviously, I didn't. It turned out that we were in for a rough couple of weeks following this excitement, but by now, its all past. We have a perfect, beautiful little boy, our little Ryan Charles.

35 weeks!

2011-12-01T03:31:00.001-08:00

How far along? 35 weeks! Tuesday should have been the highly coveted 35/ 35 date (35 weeks down, 35 days to go), but Little Erbse is going to be making his appearance before then, since I am having a c-section. I'll explain more in a little but, but Erbse will be a December baby!

Total weight gain: about 10 kilos, or 22 lbs.

How big is baby? Our Little Pea is the size of a honeydew melon.
Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.
from www.babycenter.com

Maternity clothes: I've now graduated to a lot of Joern's big, comfy sweatshirts and sweaters. But my maternity shirts still fit well too, but the tanks are starting to expose belly again.

Sleep? Okayish. I now get up 2-3 times a night to go to the bathroom, and the leg cramps have returned again. But, it is so helpful to be on maternity leave- I can sleep past 6 am, which is so helpful!

Best moment this week? Last week, we FINALLY purchased Erbse's carseat! We also bought a bassinet for the bedroom. I wanted a co-sleeper, but Joern was really afraid that the baby would somehow end up on the floor with the co-sleeper. But, no worries, I already made him promise to help me in and out of bed with the Erbse for the first few weeks while my incision heals.
Another amazing moment this week was when we went to the Frauenklinik in Stuttgart. We had an appointment last Thursday. The hospital is really nice, and well organized. The doctor took us in pretty quickly to speak with us. She said that given my back and neck problems, there is a 50/ 50 chance of me having no problems or I could have major problems with a natural birth, and then she said, but if something goes wrong, we will all have huge regrets. So, she explained how the c-section will work. Joern will be allowed to be in the room with me when they do the surgery, and we'll get to hold Erbse soon after he is born. She said that I should be in the hospital around 4 days or so, and that we should be able to get a hospital room converted into a family room, so that Joern and Erbse can stay in the room with me. Amazingly though, we also scheduled the c-section! Unless Erbse decides that he has had enough and wants to come out, he'll be here on Dec. 23rd! Yes, we truly will have the best Christmas present EVER this year!

Movement? Erbse has settled into a pretty strong pattern of two very active days, one very sleepy day, one semi-active day, and back to the two very active days. I think he's getting hiccups too, because my stomach kind-of is reacting like when I have the hiccups, but I don't have them, its like a rythmic stomach movement. Very sweet to know that Erbse is practicing breathing!

Food cravings: Salads and pumpkin pie :)

What I'm looking forward to: Well, the topper on the list is meeting our little guy! I'm also looking forward to the arrival of Erbse's furniture and fingers crossed, making it to the next doctor's appointment.

Labor signs: I am crampy sometimes, especially if I stand too long. But according to the doctor, there are lots of labor signs! I am having regular Braxton Hicks contractions, but of course, still not feeling those. The doctor said that Erbse is head down, and that my cervix is short and soft. She isn't so confident that we'll make it to the 23rd of December!

Other Erbse related news:
I'm still waiting for pictures from the baby shower to do my baby shower post. But rest assured, Erbse has tons of gifts waiting for me to sort through! I also received in the mail today Erbse's coming home outfit. I also ordered a few "my first Christmas" outfits from the Children's Place, a store which conveniently now delivers internationally. Hopefully, the order will make it here before Erbse, because I ordered the most perfect hat for him to come home!

34 weeks!

2011-11-23T03:08:00.001-08:00

I admit, I have been a horrible blogger. In my defense, we are living between our house and our apartment, and I have hit the fun of the third trimester, which means I am often exhausted, crampy, and just want to sleep.
But, I figured in honor of my very first day of Maternity Leave - wahoo!- I would do a post. I am hoping that I'll be able to get Joern to take a bump picture today, and when he does, I swear, I'll update!

How far along? 34 weeks. Yup, you read that right, only 6 weeks to go before my due date!

Total weight gain?: Our little guy isn't so little anymore, I'm up about 20 lbs. now.

How big is baby?
Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous aboutpreterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

from www.babycenter.com

Maternity clothes?: Besides the trouble with keeping my maternity pants up now, the rest is okay. I don't have maternity pj's, so I have to wear tanks under my pajama shirts now.

Sleep? Can't complain. My crazy nightmares are continuing, now on a nightly basis, and I have to get up 2- 3 times a night to go to the bathroom, but I can fall back asleep okay. And now that I'm on leave, I can sleep past 6:00 am, and if I need to, I can always take a nap.

Best moment this week? Sheesh, its been a few weeks. I had a good doctor's appointment two weeks ago. She said that my cervix is shortening, but normally, which is all a part of my body preparing for delivery. Little Erbse's heartbeat was seriously like a galloping horse on the NST as well last Monday- it was so strong, they had to turn down the volume on the monitor. I had two incredible baby showers last week as well, one at work, and one held by my friend, Mandy. I'll write a separate post about the showers, but suffice to say, Erbse has a LOT of stuff now!

Movement? Erbse has been really busy lately. I think he's taking swimming lessons, because his movements are really fluid now, like a swimmer, and the bump is moving in very visible waves. I can always find a spot on my stomach now where I can distinctly feel a part of Erbse- which to me seems to indicate that he's running out of room. I still can't tell the parts, but you can easily now say "butt or head," or "hand, foot, knee, or elbow." I'm interested to see how this plays out in the next few weeks.

Food cravings? Back to salads. Hooray!

Labor signs?: I'm having contractions, but think they are Braxton Hicks contractions. I don't feel them, but they showed up on my last two NSTs. The doctor said that they aren't causing any dilation, so there is no reason for concern. I am also having some low back pain and cramping. The doctor said that the pain and cramping could either be muscular discomfort, or signs that Erbse would soon like to make his arrival. She did explain that because he is big, and I am not, he is definitely putting quite a bit of strain on my muscles.

What I miss? These past few weeks, I can't say there is anything that I'm truly missing. Maybe tuna, but not so badly.

What I'm looking forward to? Erbse's furniture should be arriving within the next few weeks, and I can't wait to get working on his nursery. Of course with 6 weeks left, the most exciting prospect though is meeting our little man!

More Erbse related news: A few weeks ago, we met with one of the teachers at school who agreed to do a maternity photo shoot. It was so fun, and the photos turned out beautifully. Now that I have a little time, and internet access, I can do a post about these too!

I have started childbirth classes, although I am having a cesarian. The classes are held weekly, on Tuesday mornings, and there are a total of seven, and even though there is quite a bit that has to do with natural birth, the teacher does a lot with pain management and strengthening after the birth, which will be important for me anyway. I also am happy to go because the classes are taught by my Hebamme, or midwife. She will be coming to the house often after Erbse is born, and I would prefer to know her a little bit before she comes into our home. The nice thing about my midwife is that she is the mom of one of Joern's friends, so she knows him well. I like this because their knowing each other has kind-of removed some of the formality that is very present here, and I don't really feel comfortable with.

Joern and I also had our first hospital tour last Thursday night. It was in Reutlingen, a town not too far from here. One of our friends had her c-section there, and said that she was pleased with the care. I have to say, the tour left us a bit disconcerted. When we arrived, the woman at the information desk led us on a wild-goose chase through the hospital, and we ended arriving in the meeting room 20 minutes late because we walked all over the place. I also thought it was poor that there were no signs for the information night either. To make matters worse, the nurses were very disorganized, and although very nice, they didn't leave us feeling too confident in the hospital. Plus, the hospital is in bad need of renovation. It isn't uncommon to have very old hospitals here, but this one is probably one of the more needy for an update. Joern commented that the birthing rooms looked like medieval torture chambers! We have a meeting tomorrow with the Women's Clinic in Stuttgart, which many people have recommended. We'll see how that goes!

31 weeks

2011-11-04T01:42:00.000-07:00

How far along? 31 weeks

Total weight gain: I gained a lot between appointments, now I'm up about 18 lbs from the beginning.
How big is baby?
31 weeks: Baby weighs as much as four orangesYour baby now weighs as much as four navel oranges. (Length: over 16 inches, head to heel.)

This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.
From www.babycenter.com

Maternity clothes: I had to break down and buy a few more pieces, although buying maternity clothing this far along is painful. But, I went to H&M and bought a beautiful sweater dress for 30 Euro, and I even bought a sweater for our baby shower!

Sleep: Pretty good, weird dreams, but overall, I'm sleeping fine.

Best moment this week?: My doctor's appointment.

Movement?: Fewer jabbing ninja kicks, and now I think he's either trying to ride a bike or swim, his movements are very fluid from one side to the other. I had to laugh this morning, but they showed a scene from movie where an alien popped out of a man's stomach on CNN. I had to laugh because I always feel like one of these scenes when Erbse is moving around in there and my stomach is moving all sorts of funny ways.

Food cravings?: Cake!

Labor signs?: Fortunately still none.

Belly button in or out?: Still the same, shallow, but there.

What I miss?: Coffee still!

What I'm looking forward to?: Well, the obvious- we're getting very close to meeting our little Erbse!

Milestone?: Less than 10 weeks to go!

Other Erbse related news:
We had a great appointment with the OB on Monday! It started with another NST (Non-stress test) and I figured out that there is something about them that Erbse does not like, because he squirmed and kicked the whole 20 minutes they had me hooked up to the machine. I love them, because I get a full 20 minutes to listen to Erbse's heartbeat, which sounds much more like a galloping horse than what you would expect a pea's heartbeat to sound like, if a pea had a heartbeat. Then, I had a growth scan. Even though I have an ultrasound at every appointment, they do three growth ultrasounds here: between 9 & 12 weeks, between 19 & 22 weeks, and between 29 & 32 weeks. I've now had all my growth ultrasounds. We found out that our little Erbse isn't so little at all. I noticed during our last growth scan that all of Erbse's measurments were at the 75th percentile and above, but the doctor didn't say anything about it, and I forgot to bring it up at subsequent appointments. Well, this time, he's measuring at or above the 90th percentile in all areas! We asked if this was a problem, but the doctor said that if everything is measuring around the same size, there is no cause for concern. It just happens that we're on our way to having more like the Jolly Green Giant than a little pea. He's measuring about 2.02 grams, or close to 4.5 lbs. No wonder I gained 6 pounds in the past month! But, our little bruiser is doing very well.
We also talked again about delivery. Joern and I would like to go look at a few hospitals for delivery, which we will do over the next few weeks. The doctor wants me to make an appointment at the hospital where I will deliver at 35 weeks, I have to say, its really exciting to get to the point where we're talking about delivery!
Besides the doctor's appointment, we made a little progress in Erbse's nursery. His furniture was picked up from my stepmother's house last week and should be loaded by now on a ship. We only had one little blip in the process, part of the crib was left at my stepmother's house. Fortunately, the shipping company will come and pick up the other part, and has agreed to also ship my rocking chair from Pottery Barn Kids that is arriving way late!

30 weeks

2011-10-30T03:40:00.000-07:00

How far along? 30 weeks

Total weight gain: now around 11 lbs.

How big is baby?
Our "Little Pea" is now the size of a head of cabbage.
30 weeks: Baby weighs as much as a large cabbageYour baby rivals a good-size cabbage in weight, tipping the scales this week at 3 pounds. (Length: about 15 3/4 inches, head to heel.)
Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

From www.babycenter.com

Maternity clothes: My maternity jeans, that I once praised for comfort, are now starting to stretch too much during the day. I spend my days now running around, pulling up my pants. I'm looking forward to a week break, during which time I will be sporting only my yoga pants!
Sleep: Alright. I still am having trouble going back to sleep if I wake up during the night, but its okay. I am having some crazy dreams though!

Best moment this week?: Reaching 30 weeks! I can count the number of weeks left until my due date on my fingers! Oh my gosh!

Movement?: Erbse has now gotten to punching one side of my stomach and kicking the other side. That and he has found a new, very comfy to him position, where he stretches out what feels like at a 90° angle to my stomach. I am assuming he puts his back against my stomach, becasue I have a long hard spot, and presses really hard against my stomach. It is so cute that he is comfy in there, but it such a horribly uncomfortable position for me!

Food cravings?: Philly cheesesteak, thanks to my friend, Carol.

Labor signs?: Fortunately still none.

Belly button in or out?: A shallowie, but it pops out if I press on the sides of my belly button.

What I miss?: Coffee still and salami. I blame Joern for the salami, he had some the other night and it really looked yummy!

What I'm looking forward to?: My last monthly doctor's appointment next week.

Milestone?: Reaching the 30 week marker!

Other Erbse related news:
The nursery continues to evolve. Joern is working on the baseboard, which look fantastic against the blue walls and wood floors in the room.

Heavenly Apple Crisp- aka. one of my last baking projects in our apartment

2011-10-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

Fall has been my favorite season pretty much all my life. I have moved to a country where fall is nice, but not quite as lovely as fall in New England. In an effort to savor some yummy American fall flavor, and to celebrate our upcoming move, I decided to make an apple crisp.
I can't really imagine many smells better than the combined scent of apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It reminds me of home, and it is a scent that puts me in my happy place when I get stressed about packing, moving, and unpacking. I am already getting a little sentimental about our tiny, but happy, apartment, and am probably trying my hardest to fill it with as many happy memories before we move away. New England fall memories are among the best, so our apartment needs some fall baking this year.

I found this recipe on a lovely blog recently, Rachel's Nest, which prompted me to bake some delicious apple crisp tonight. As I'm typing, the air is filled with the lovely, spicy scent of baking apples and cinnamon. Aaah!

Fortunately, apple crisp is really easy, and fine for a Monday night.
I started by making brown sugar. For most people, making brown sugar isn't a necessity, but for those of us living away from readily accessible brown sugar, my baking always requires homemade brown sugar. Fortunately, homemade brown sugar just requires mixing 1-2 tbsp. of molasses (or Zuckerrübensirup) per 1 cup of sugar. Just mix the two together and smush all the molasses into the sugar with a fork.

And when its all worked in, you have fluffy, wonderful brown sugar:

Once the brown sugar was all set, I got to work peeling and slicing the apples. Once all the slices were in the baking dish, I mixed together sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little flour, and sprinkled it over the apples:

Once the apples were set, I got to work on the crisp topping. I mixed together melted butter, brown sugar, oats, and flour. I then decided to throw in a little extra cinnamon and a dash of vanilla for good measure. A little extra cinnamon and vanilla never hurt anything.

Once the topping mixture is good and crumbly, spoon it evenly over the sliced apples. Then, just pop the baking dish full of appley goodness in the oven, and bake at 350° (175°ish C) for about 40 minutes, make sure to enjoy the wonderful smell!

Here's the full recipe (adapted slightly from here)

Apple mixture:

5-7 apples, peeled, cored and sliced

3/4 cup white sugar

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Oat topping mixture:

2 cups quick-cooking oats

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups packed brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder (Kaiser Natron here in Germany)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup butter, melted

*I added a little vanilla extract and some cinnamon to this mixture too*

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place the sliced apples in a lightly greased 9x13 inch dish. Mix the white sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, nutmeg and cinnamon together and sprinkle over apples.

Combine oats, 2 cups of flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda and melted butter. Spoon over the sliced apples until evenly covered. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or vanilla sauce.

2011-10-19T09:18:00.000-07:00

How far along? 29 weeks

Total weight gain: still about 10 lbs.

How big is baby? Our "Little Pea" is now the size of a butternut squash.
Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.
From www.babycenter.com

Maternity clothes: Since its gotten much cooler outside, I've had to go back to some of my non-maternity, but far warmer, sweaters. The good ones are cardigans. My non-maternity tops are hitting now about mid-bellybutton.

Sleep: Eh,not the most desirable. I'm still having leg cramps. I also have trouble falling back to sleep after my 2 am bathroom trip. Plus, I have a miserable head cold, and haven't been able to breathe the past few nights.

Best moment this week?: Well, since this post is actually two weeks worth, the best was getting a 3D picture of Erbse's face at the doctor last Monday night. It was the first time that he was sleeping at the doctor, so she could get a good shot of his face. This past week, the best thing was seeing Erbse's room painted a perfect shade of "Little Boy Blue." You can see me in Erbse's room in this week's picture.

Movement?: Erbse has been moving so much that two weeks ago, I was worried that I hadn't felt him move in about 20 hours. I called the doctor and she had me come in right away and they hooked me up to a fetal heart monitor. Of course, as soon as the nurse strapped me up and drew the curtain, I got a little karate chop to the stomach. I was slightly embarassed, but the doctors and nurses agreed that it was best that I come in. We've decided he is going to be a soccer player or a ninja. Erbse's kicks are getting much stronger, which has really surprised Joern, and are getting a little painful to me.

Food cravings?: Nothing really intense.

Labor signs?: None yet, crossing my fingers that we don't see any for a while.

Belly button in or out?: A shallowie.

What I miss?: Coffee. I miss coffee so much! I know I can have some, but don't want to get back to my 2 cup a day habit, so its safer to avoid. Boo hoo!

What I'm looking forward to?: Next week is 30 weeks!

Milestone?: We're well into the third trimester now. Because so many websites and books disagree as to the beginning of the third trimester, I've definitely been in the third trimester for over a week now!

Other Erbse related news:
As of last Monday, Erbse weighs approximately 1200 grams (about 2.5 lbs.). According to the doctor, this is perfect, according to a website, he is measuring about a week ahead.

We finally went into a baby store to look for a stroller and car seat. I am trying to decide between the Britax/ Roemer sleeper, which allows the baby to lay down in the car and is supposed to be much more ergonomically correct; or the Maxi Cosi Pebble, which is more of a traditional car seat, but has the bonus of being more in a laying position than the average car seat. One of the parents at school gave me a beautiful convertible stroller, that looks barely used. The only problem is that it doesn't fold down very small, so I would like another stroller for when we travel, or when we want to put something more than the stroller in the trunk of the car.
The parents at school are so generous, and have given me quite a few baby clothes. I can't believe how many clothes we have now!
The room is all painted, and the shipping company is headed to my stepmother's house next week Wednesday. All of the furniture has now been shipped. I even made a few last minute orders, including the wooden letters for Erbse's name on the nursery wall, and the Fisher Price My Little Lamb swing, that will hopefully get in before the shipment leaves. I can't wait to get all of Erbse's furniture set up in the nursery!

On naming a baby

2011-10-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

Its no secret that Joern and I are having a lot of difficulty finding a name for our Little Erbse. Today though, I probably got some of the best baby naming advice of all time.
One of my students from 3 school years prior was in the library today after work. Oh yeah, I work in the library now, I'll have to write more about that later, now I'm talking about the serious work of naming a kid. So, this girl who is now a fourth grader, was asking me a bunch of questions about the baby. She asked me about the baby's sex, so I told her that we're having a boy. She said that it was good to find out the sex so that you can start shopping before baby comes. I agreed, but then added that for me, I am very glad that we know we're having a boy because we only need to choose a boy name, and that's stressful enough. The student responded by saying, "well it shouldn't be that hard, I named both of my rabbits with just a little help from my mom."

So there you have it, I guess it should be pretty easy if I want to name the baby either "Floppy," or "Misty." Apparently, I shouldn't stress about this name decision!

27 weeks!

2011-10-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 27 weeks

*Total weight gain: about 10 lbs.
*How big is baby?: The baby is still the size of an eggplant

*Maternity clothes?: I've been wearing a few non-maternity t-shirts lately, because it is so warm here, and I don't have that many maternity T's. But, they make me look even bigger, and I feel much more comfy in my maternity clothes.

*Sleep?: Pretty good. But, if I roll too far over onto a side, then I get a pretty bad cramp pretty quickly. And of course, Erbse kicks pretty good when I roll over too far too :)

*Best moment this week?: Reaching the third trimester! That and when Joern definitely felt Erbse kicking, quite a few times!

*Movement?: Lots and lots! He is managing to kick up under my ribs and probably punch down below my belly button at the same time. Lots of kicks also end up in a little bulge in my belly. I can stare at my stomach for hours now waiting for Erbse to move :)

*Food cravings?: milk

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?: Popping out on the edges.

*What I miss: being able to bend over without being in pain

*What I'm looking forward to: doctor's appointment next week

*Milestone: Third trimester! We only have three months to go!

*Other Erbse related news: I have to send in my documents for the shipping company, and Erbse's furnitre is set to leave my stepmother's house on the 26th of October. I'm pretty sure Erbse will be here before his bedroom, but he doesn't really need his bedroom immediately. I have tons and tons of clothes now, both gifts and very gently used clothes from moms at school. I have washed everything, and am in the process of packing by age / size. This weekend WILL be shopping weekend- we desperately need to look at strollers and car seats!

2011-09-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

How far along? 26 weeks

*Total weight gain: 8 lbs.
*How big is baby?: Our Little Pea is the still size of an eggplant!

Let your spouse put an ear to your belly -- he might be able to pick up baby's heartbeat (no stethoscope required). Inside the womb, the formation of tiny capillaries is giving baby a healthy pink glow. Baby's also soaking up your antibodies, getting the immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and baby will soon perfect the blink -- perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes.

From www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes? Pretty much everything

*Sleep? I would say 90% good.

*Best moment this week?: Making it to double digits until my due date! As of today, its 97 days until Erbse Day! That and Joern FINALLY felt a real, strong kick! Hooray!

*Movement?: Lots and lots of movement! Erbse has been kicking really strong the past few days, and now, my stomach moves when he kicks hard. It is so cool, even though it does seem like something out of a movie about aliens!

*Food cravings?: not really craving anything

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?: My scar from my surgery is now halfway inside and halfway outside. There isn't much more belly button left there.

*What I miss: Coffee

*What I'm looking forward to: More kicks from my little guy, my upcoming doctor's appointment in two weeks.

*Milestone: Most definitely hitting double digits! I know that time will really fly anyway. I just checked the calendar for October, and was shocked to see that Oct. 10th is already two weeks away!

*Other Erbse related news: Erbse and I had a brief sick-leave last week, due to a case of scarlet fever at work. We enjoyed our time home though, if I wasn't busy with the laundry and packing, I was sitting on the couch staring at my stomach. Its amazing how interesting it can be to watch your stomach bulge out :) I also ordered Erbse's mattress over the weekend. The only thing I have left to order for the container is the changing pad, and then Erbse's room will be all ordered. Wahoo! I only have to wait till October 13th for the chair to be delivered, and shipment is on the 26th of October.
I also found a ton of pop / rock based lullabies on I-Tunes. Erbse and I now are enjoying lullaby versions of Coldplay and Eternal Flame, by the Bangles. He seems to especially enjoy "Eternal Flame," and "Clocks." He kicks quite a bit when I sing :)

25 weeks!

2011-09-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

How far along? 25 weeks, sorry, I missed last week!

*Total weight gain:8 lbs.
*How big is baby?: Our Little Pea is the size of an eggplant!

From www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes?:Most all of my clotes now are maternity clothes. But I did wear a non-maternity shirt today. Its one of myz favorites, and I'm not sure how much more time I have with it.

*Sleep?: Pretty good!

*Best moment this week?: Well,a lot has happened over the past two weeks! First off, we passed the glucose tolerance test! It was only very entertaining to have the Erbse get super-active about 10 minutes after I had to drink the glucose syrup! No one can tell me that there is no correlation between sugar and activity!
We also had a great doctor's appointment last week Monday! Little Erbse is measuring right on target. Of course, what was cutest of all was seeing Little Erbse with his entire hand stuffed in his mouth. That's when we realized, we're going to have a healthy eater! But he really knows how to make your heart melt!

*Movement?: Erbse is quite busy, often. Joern thinks he felt a kick the other day. Tonight, he kicked, or punched really high up, and it was so strong, it really took me off guard. He also started kicking at 6:00 this morning, just as I rolled over to try to get 20 more minutes sleep.

*Food cravings?: fruit

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?:Getting more shallow.

*What I miss: not much these past few weeks, I'm enjoying the pregnancy right now.

*What I'm looking forward to: Erbse getting stronger and stronger with his kicks!

*Milestone: 25 weeks today! We only have a few more days to go before we're into double digits until Erbse's birthday!

*Other Erbse related news: I am having trouble with iron. My blood work in August came back that I'm anemic. The iron tablets my doctor perscribed had a really negative impact on my arthritis, and for a week or so, I was barely able to walk. I've tried a few other iron supplements, and we may have found a good one, that I can tolerate. I also turned in my paperwork from the doctor for maternity leave. The HR lady at work is on vacation until next week, so I am looking forward to meeting with her when she returns to find out how this whole maternity leave thing works.

Sprinting to the "finish" line

2011-09-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

Well friends, faithful readers, as of yesterday, we began the "end phase!" Yes, the "end phase." The house has come from a hole in the ground to the point where everything being done now is the interior finishing.
"Cute Tile Guy," began yesterday. From here, we are looking at 2-3 weeks of tiling, 2 weeks of plaster work/ painting, plumbing fixture installation, 1 week of wood floors, and the kitchen. Kitchen is the last thing to go in before us. We're looking at about 3 more months total. But this is the exciting stuff! From here on out, the house is coming together, the accumulation of all of our hard work and stressful decisions. We're obviously freaking out excited!
Yesterday's job by cute tile guy was all prep work. He installed water barriers underneath the tiled floor master shower and the bathtub.

He also installed drywall along the back of the vanity and behind the bathtub.

We also now have in our possession the majority of tiles!

Our cellar tiles that Joern had to pick up and offload. That was a lot of lifting!

And the rest of the tiles, from the tile showroom, that were definitely offloaded with a crane:

Although, I do believe that we have not yet received the tiles for the floor in the master bath.

Besides the tile flooring, our salesman from the floor company stopped by yesterday. He needed to make measurments and to check that the floor is indeed dry enough to lay the parquet.

The guys who laid the "Estrich," that concreteish material on top of the radiant heating tubes put little "markers" in the floor, marking easy places for the flooring companies to come and remove a section to measure the humidity level in the floor.

They removed a small section on the first floor and a small section on the second floor, and put each section into a special instrument that measures how much humidity is in the concrete.

The good news is that the floor is pretty much dry now, so it will be fine at the beginning of October, the tentative begin date for the floors.

The salesman also spoke with us about a solution for our hearth. Joern was vehemently against tiling the hearth in front of the fireplace, insisiting on a glass plate. The only thing that the salesman warned against the glass plate is that we will be forever bumping into a raised surface and stubbing our toes. For someone with arthritis in their toes, the act of stubbing my toes usually ends up with me in crying jags because the pain is just unbearable. He suggested a solution of removing one of the bottom layers of parquet in the area surrounding the fireplace, this would take about 6 mm off the height of the parquet. Then, we will install a 6 mm thick glass plate in the lowered section, which will give us a seamless, glass-covered hearth. Genius, I tell you!

The floor was officially ordered today, although we still haven't made a final decsion on the stairs. Really, stairs aren't a big deal though, and we could even move in before the stairs are covered. And part of me would prefer to move in first, just so no one drops any of our lovely, very heavy furniture on our stairs. The stairs are ultra-expensive, and we're now considering only putting parquet on the stairs heading up to the bedrooms, and using tile instead on the stairs heading up from the basement. I am also undecided as to whether I would like wood only on top of each step, and painting the concrete a high-gloss white on the rise, or if it is better to completely cover the rise and steps. I'm not going to stress about this decision, nor do we want to rush the decision. Here, we have time.

Well, that's it. The beginning of the end. Of course, the house will be nowhere near complete when we move in either, but this is the beginning of the end of the uninhabited time in our house's story!

2011-09-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 23 weeks

*Total weight gain: I will probably find out tomorrow
*How big is baby?: The baby is still the size of a papaya

Watch what you say -- baby is now able to hear outside noise from down in the womb. Studies show that baby finds gentle music and your own voice most soothing. Nipples are starting to sprout, and that little face is fully formed. And, baby's starting to settle into sleep cycles, snoozing about 12 to 14 hours a day. It shouldn't be hard to figure out when -- just pay attention to those kicks as they start and stop. from www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes?: All I can say is "yoga pants at work."

*Sleep?: Sleeping pretty well.

*Best moment this week?: Comparing my pictures from last week and this week. The bump grew!

*Movement?: Erbse has been wiggling around at work and at home. He's busiest in the morning, from about 8-12, and then again around 5:00. I get a few kicks when I am getting ready to sleep too.

*Food cravings?: fruit, veggies

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?: Still an innie, and still rather painful!

*What I miss: sleeping on my right side

*What I'm looking forward to: more Erbse kicks!

*Milestone: Two weeks till 25! 17 more to go!

*Other Erbse related news: Tomorrow is my glucose tolerance test. I'm super nervous, but know that it is the right decision. No name yet. Oh, and my goal for this week is to order a mattress.

22 weeks

2011-08-31T12:36:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 22 weeks

*Total weight gain: still 7 lbs.
*How big is baby?: The baby is the size of a papaya

Watch what you say -- baby is now able to hear outside noise from down in the womb. Studies show that baby finds gentle music and your own voice most soothing. Nipples are starting to sprout, and that little face is fully formed. And, baby's starting to settle into sleep cycles, snoozing about 12 to 14 hours a day. It shouldn't be hard to figure out when -- just pay attention to those kicks as they start and stop. From: www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes?: I wore my new maternity dress today. So many complements! I love it!

*Sleep?: Still tossing and turning quite a bit, but pretty much well rested.

*Best moment this week?: Feeling the Erbse kicks from outside. Now, if only Joern was patient enough to feel too!

*Movement?: Erbse made his presence known to me quite a few times at work this week. It was so hard not to giggle when Erbse wiggled around while the director of the school directed his "welcome back" speech.

*Food cravings?: fruit, veggies, macaroni & cheese

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?: Still an innie, and still rather painful!

*What I miss: sleeping on my right side

*What I'm looking forward to: more Erbse kicks!

*Milestone: We're in to month 5 now.

*Other Erbse related news: Still no name. We can't land on one that we are both in love with. We met with my friend, Mandy, on Friday at the Stuttgart Weindorf. She asked if she could host a baby shower! I was certain that I would not have a baby shower here with all of my friends. I am soooo excited!

21 Weeks

2011-08-25T12:18:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 20 weeks

*Total weight gain: still 7 lbs.
*How big is baby?: The baby is the size of a banana.

Baby gulps down several ounces of amniotic fluid every day, both for hydration and nutrition and to practice swallowing and digesting. And, these days, those taste buds actually work! Studies show that after birth, babies are most interested in tastes they've already experienced through amniotic fluid. Meaning, think about what you want your future child to eat as you prepare your own lunch.
*Maternity clothes?: Most definitely, tank tops and t-shirts for length! I put on my shorts today, and well, I hope the heat breaks soon, it was a struggle!

*Sleep?: I'm tossing and turning quite a bit. I get uncomfortable on my left side, so I flip on my right for a few minutes, then back to my left. When I wake up again, its time for another few minute break on my back, but I don't fall asleep this way. Blargh!

*Best moment this week?: Feeling the Erbse move while sitting, not just when I am laying down!

*Movement?: Feeling Erbse move when I sit and lay down.

*Food cravings?: fruit, veggies

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?: Ouchie! Still an innie, but the scar from my surgery that is in my belly button must be stretching. It really hurts!

*What I miss: not having to bend over to see my feet

*What I'm looking forward to: more Erbse kicks!

*Milestone: Breaking past the halfway point. Its all downhill, until I become a mountain, from here!

Bella Italia- July 2011

2011-08-24T13:34:00.000-07:00

We made two short trips to Italy in July. Instead of lots of explanation, I thought it would be better just to sum up the two weekends with a bunch of pictures.

In the Alps, near Lichtenstein.

Splügenpass. Elevation: 6,932 ft.

Chiavenna- I'm in love!

From Milan to Venice

Lido di Jesolo

Enjoying an evening cocktail (alcohol free, of course,) by the hotel pool.

Yum!

Treviso

Venice at night

Festa Redentore (Feast of the Redeemer)

Last stop before home- fruit, veggies, and wine!

Dear Little Erbse

2011-08-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Little Erbse,
Tonight is the last night of Week 20, or the last night of the halfway point. I cannot believe that we have been together for 20 weeks already, and can't even begin to imagine how quickly the next 20 weeks will fly. We have been through a lot together already. I am conviced that you are already a well traveled baby, having now gone to Hong Kong, Italy, and home all before you were halfway grown. You even pulled through my cold like a champ. When we saw you squirming around on the ultrasound screen on Friday, stuffing that little thumb in your mouth, your Daddy and I fell more in love, and are already so very proud of you! We were so excited when the doctor confirmed that you are a boy, and I can't even begin to imagine how much fun it will be raising our son.

We have a lot to look forward to in the upcoming 20 weeks, Little Guy. Fall is coming up, and you will be expericing lots of different tastes, because Mommy loves pumpkin! Our next 20 weeks will be calmer in terms of travel, we'll be staying here in Germany most of the time, but that will only help you grow bigger and stronger. We promise to decide on a name for you over the next 20 weeks. While your Daddy and I both love Erbse, you may not be happy with that decision when you're older.
We will also be moving into our new house in the upcoming 20 weeks. Your room will come together, and hopefully, be finished before you arrive. But, most of the memories we will have in our new house will include you, Little Erbse. Its already hard to imagine life without you.

Most importantly though, in 20, or so, weeks, we will be meeting you Little Erbse. I can't wait to hold you, to see your little face, and to hear your little cry. Your Daddy and I hope that we will be good parents to you, we're already trying hard.

So, Erbse, here is to the next 20 weeks. We're standing on top of the hill now, and we'll start walking down slowly, but I'm sure we'll be running by the end.
We love you so much,
Mommy and Daddy

Baby shopping a'la home

2011-08-22T04:01:00.000-07:00

One of the things I did while I was home over the past two weeks was to do some baby shopping. It was so much fun! I bought clothes at Target and Babies R'Us, and set up my Babies R' Us registry with my aunt and cousin, Elizabeth. I even returned to Babies R'Us the day before I left.
I have a few confessions: baby clothes are super cute, and I want to buy them all; and baby items are equally cute (minus breast pumps,) leaving me to again, want to buy everything!
I bought some adorable clothes:

I also received a few gifts already from my stepmom:

The blanket fit perfectly with my decision to go with a nautical theme for the nursery. I figured that since the water is such a big part of me, and sadly, little Erbse will not be infused with salt water the way I am, I don't mind giving him as much sea as I can.

So, this is the nursery bedding that I bought:

Obviously, I did not buy the crib, but quilt gives you a good idea of the bedding.

It is the Ahoy Mate collection. I fell in love with the fact that

it was nautical, but had monkeys :) I love monkeys too :)

I bought the matching mobile too:

I also bought a pack n'play for Germany:

And, I bought a very cool convertible bouncy seat for my dad's house.

I really liked the fact that the seat converts to a rocking chair for toddlers. I figured that it would be nice for the Erbse to have a nice seat for the Erbse at Dad's house, but usually, they are only for newborns, which would mean that Erbse would get to use it one trip. This way, the Erbse can have his special chair at Grandpa's house for a few years.

Today, I plan on completing my nursery furniture purchase. I am purchasing the crib and changing table from the Larkin Collection at Pottery Barn Kids. Both the crib and changing table are convertible to regular pieces of furnitre. The crib turns into a toddler bed and later, into a double bed headboard. The changing table has a removable lip, so that it can be used as a dresser.

I also am ordering the Charleston Upholstered Convertible Rocker and Ottoman, again from Pottery Barn Kids. I love the fact that you can take the rockers off and put legs on when a rocker is no longer necessary.

Of course, this is just the beginning of Erbse shopping. But, I do feel like we have a good start!

Anatomy Scan

2011-08-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we had the baby's 20 week anatomy scan. The doctor spent about 30 minutes with the ultrasound. It was just amazing to see the Erbse again!
She showed us his arms and hands, we were able to count 5 fingers on each hand. Then, she switched to the legs, and confirmed that the Erbse is indeed a little boy. She showed us the bones in his legs, and each of the feet. There are 5 toes on each foot too :)

Its hard to see, but if you look carefully, one of the Erbse's feet is in the top middle of the picture.

She showed us his heart, and we heard his heartbeat. She showed us the blood flowing through the umbilical cord. She showed us his spine, which also looks very good.

The entire time, the Erbse was quite active, which is why the pictures are blury. It was much clearer on the screen, but when she went to capture the image on the screen, the little bugger, *ahem* Erbse, would squirm around, and everything went blury.

I asked about his kidneys, because my grandmother only had one fully developed kidney. She said that they are both fine, as well as his bladder, and lungs.

What had to be the most amazing part of the scan was when she put it on 4D. The Erbse was sucking his thumb, but not just a little bit of his thumb, but his entire thumb, including the fat part, and was wiggling it around in his mouth. Again, hard to get a good picture because we have an energetic little Erbse who would not hold still for a picture. So, the following picture is a little freaky, but if you look closely, you can see that little hand jammed into his mouth:

Before the scan was completed, the doctor switched it back to 2D to take some measurements. The Erbse is measuring at date or 1-2 weeks ahead on everything. She said that it was all very good, and he is developing quite healthily!

I had a few concerns to bring up though. I asked about the passing out at Babies R'Us incident, and she said that it was completely normal. I also asked about feeling the Erbse, because I'm not feeling him move over the day. Again, she said it is fine, and 20 weeks is early to feel the first baby. Then, the doctor brought up that my iron was low, so I am now on iron supplements. She then asked if I would like to take a glucose tolerance test. Given my family history, being the child of two diabetics, I immediately jumped on this offer. So, on September 7, at 8 am, I will be at the doctor's office at 8:00 in the morning for a few hours while I drink super sweet, spike your blood sugar, syrup, and have my blood taken periodically to see how my body process glucose. Fingers crossed that this works okay!

Otherwise, everything went very well. We are so in love with our little Erbse, and are entirely convinced that we truly have the most adorable little boy in the world. I'll leave you all with one final photo:

20 weeks- Halfway there!

2011-08-19T15:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry that this post is a few days late. I was still home on the actual 20 week marker, and traveled back to Germany on Wednesday night, which knocked me out Thursday too. Today was busy, and I will need to upload another picture, but at least its a start.

How far along?: 20 weeks

*Total weight gain: Finally gained. Total weight gain now: 3.5 kilos, or about 7 pounds.

*How big is baby?: The baby is the size of a cantaloupe.

Baby's digestive system is busy creating meconium (a tarry black substance made of swallowed amniotic fluid, digestive secretion and dead cells), which will fill the first diaper after birth. And, speaking of the diaper situation... baby's genitals are now fully formed! from www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes?: Since I haven't posted in 2 weeks, this is a little long. Two weeks ago, about 2 days into my trip home, I realized that my tank tops were showing way too much skin, and while I love my baby belly, belly shirts are a definite no-no. So, I purchased and fell in love with much longer maternity tanks. Last week, I broke out the maternity jeans- aah, heaven! I can still squeeze into my shorts, but I have to push them low under my belly. I'm kinda glad I didn't need to buy maternity shorts though. I had tons of fun buying lots of maternity clothes at home with my friend Monica at Destination Maternity!

*Sleep?: Sleeping pretty well, but my stomach is getting a little uncomfortable when I sleep on my side. May be time to break out a belly pillow.

*Best moment this week?: So many fantastic moments during the past two weeks! I had a wonderful visit with my dad. I bought tons of baby stuff while I was home. And today, we had our 20 week anatomy scan. It was incredible to watch the Erbse move around, see his strong heartbeat, healthy development, and to watch him stuff his little hand into his mouth :)

*Movement?: Starting last week, when I lay down in bed and stay still, I feel quite a bit of activity. I also had one big punch to my belly button last Thursday at 4 am!

*Food cravings?: donuts, fruit

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?: Innie.

*What I miss: my dad :(

*What I'm looking forward to: feeling Erbse move much more consistently

*Milestone: 3: The Erbse went on his first trip to his second home, a great anatomy scan, and of course, the 20 week, halfway marker!

17 weeks

2011-07-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

*How far along?: 17 weeks

*Total weight gain: I had a really hard time eating last week. I lost about 3 kilos, or 6 lbs. Combined with the loss of 1 lb. two weeks ago, I have now lost 3.5 kilos since my BFP.

*How big is baby?: Today, the baby is the size of an onion!

Baby's skeleton is hardening, changing from rubbery cartilage to bone, and fat is finally accumulating around it. The umbilical cord is getting thicker and stronger, and those little fingers and toes are now topped by one-of-a-kind prints.
From www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes?: Nope, my jeans are snug, but since I lost weight, my already slightly baggy jeans now have a little more rooms to close.

*Sleep?: No complaints here, sleeping great!

*Best moment this week?: Definitely that I'm feeling much better!

*Movement?: Not yet, but I am looking forward to it!

*Food cravings?: chocolate cereal, fruit

*Labor signs?: Too early!

*Belly button in or out?: Innie.

*What I miss: this week, not much

*What I'm looking forward to: Feeling the Erbse move

*Milestone: no real exciting milestone this week

*Bonus bump picture:

My appologies

2011-07-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

I'm two days overdue for my 16 week post, but I am in mysery. It is possible that the pregnancy is now rearing its ugly head that didn't do so during the first trimester. Or, I am sick. Whatever, my stomach is bothering me, and my head is going to burst off of my body.
I promise to post more when I am feeling better!

Travels with Elizabeth, Carla, and the Erbse, week 1

2011-07-19T01:23:00.000-07:00

My cousin, Elizabeth, and her friend, Carla, spent a whirlwind seven weeks in Europe. They started in Barcelona, with a few little trips to Sevilla, Paris, and Rome; then, on to Milan; and their last stop was us!
They had a very eventful trip from Milan to Stuttgart, that involved 17 hours, a train, and three hours in the Munich train station at midnight. We picked the girls up at 5:30 last Tuesday morning. Needless to say, we arrived at the train station to find two very exhausted girls!
It probably wasn't a big deal to them that I was working that day, because following our morning bakery run, they proceeded to spend the rest of the day sleeping!
Sadly, I couldn't spend much time with them their first night in Germany, as we had a dinner for the leavers at work. I had to make a speech for my friend Stefanie, who is moving to Switzerland.
Of course, on Elizabeth and Carla's second day in Germany, I had to again go to work. After I got home from work, we headed to Reutlingen, known as the "Gateway to the Swabian Alb." The town has and adorable center, and we had fun checking it out! We even "met" my aunt when we were there:

On our way home, Joern headed up the hill outside of Reutlingen to check out the view: it was beautiful!

Before heading home, we drove in Neckartailfingen, to Joern's grandmother's fields. The view from there is always impressive:

We sent the girls to Stuttgart for the day. They checked out the Mercedes Museum, and then downtown Stuttgart. Being design students, they enjoyed the architecture and design of the museum even more than the incredible cars there! We met the girls downtown after work. Once we met them, we headed over to the Markthalle, which has been voted one of the most beautiful market halls in Europe. It is one of my favorite places in Stuttgart.

On Friday, Joern took the girls to Tuebingen, a very old university town. Sadly, it was raining, so I am pretty sure it wasn't as enjoyable as it could have been in better weather. We took it easy on Friday night, as Saturday was set to be a long day.

On Saturday morning, we headed southwest, into the Black Forest and over to France to Strassbourg.

Our first stop was in Hornberg, the home of the traditional cuckoo-clocks.

And the girls decided to immerse themselves in the Black Forest culture:

We were pleasantly surprised by the House of Black Forest Clocks in Hornberg. Not only did they have lovely clocks, but they were reasonably priced. Joern fell in love with one clock, and wants to go back when we move into our house!

And before we left, Elizabeth and Carla got to try a delicacy, Black Forest Cherry Cake!

From the House of Black Forest Clocks, we headed over to the House of 1000 Clocks in Triberg. It is known for housing the world's largest cuckoo clock!

We also stopped at the Triberg Waterfall, which is the highest waterfall in Germany. It was beautiful, but sadly, due to extesnive errosion from a storm two years ago, you can no longer see the waterfall in its entirety.

From Triberg, we headed further into the Black Forest. Joern surprised me again, and pulled into the Vogtsbauernhof, which is an outdoor museum. It is an actual "Black Forest" farm from 1612, that was working until the 1900s. In 1963, the museum was opened with a few original buildings, and over time, more buildings were moved from other farms.

The Vogtsbauernhof was really interesting! From there, we headed into France, to take the girls to Strasbourg. We love it there, because it is very French with German architecture.

We went into the cathedral, which I have not done before. I am always in awe of the architecture and decoration in churches in Europe. The soaring ceilings, and stained glass windows are just breathtaking. Strassbourg proves to be no less impressive.

We arrived just in time for the fireworks in our town. Sadly, my pregnant self could not stay awake any longer, so Joern dropped me off, and he took Elizabeth and Carla to our lake to see the fireworks.

Sunday was another early day. This time, we headed west, towards Bavaria. Our destination was Neuschwanstein Castle, better known as the "Fairy Tale Castle."

Because Sunday is apparently the best day to visit the castle, and EVERY tourist was there, by the time we got there, tours were booking for 3 hours later. This meant we had 3 hours to kill before our tour of the castle. So, Joern decided to use the time to drive over to Austria, because it is so close, and Carla wanted a picture standing between two countries.

We stopped by a beautiful waterfall/ lake area. One of the things I find most striking in the Alps besides the awesomeness of the mountains is most certainly the amazing green color of the water:

From there, we headed into Reutte, Austria, which is a quintessential Austrian town.

Then, we headed back to the castle for our tour:

Before heading home, we had to make an obligatory stop in Munich, to have dinner at the Hofbräuhaus. Yeah, its cheesy and touristy, but sometimes, cheese is enjoyable :)

We wandered around a slightly rainy Munich for a while after dinner. Munich is really a lovely city!

What a busy and enjoyable week!

NT scan

2011-07-18T14:15:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I've missed posting about my NT (Nuchal Translucency) scan from two weeks ago. Obviously, it has been a busy time here.
But, anyway, okay, it was almost 3 weeks, but better late than never!
The NT scan, or Nackenfaltenmessung in German, is a test performed around the 14th week to measure the folds of the neck to be used with a series of other measurments to determine risk for Down Syndrome as well as other chromosomal disorders.
I had my NT scan on a Wednesday afternoon after work. It has been 4 weeks since our last ultrasound, which we found so amazing anway. The doctor started with an internal ultrasound, and we were amazed by how big the baby had grown. It was like a monster-baby in there. The Erbse was 4 weeks before the test a very tiny face rubbing baby, had grown into a gargantuan. The doctor was having trouble getting the whole Erbse into focus, because our very intelligent and very advanced little one was standing :)
So the doctor decided to move to an abdominal ultrasound, and changed my position, which she hoped might spur the Erbse to change positions. Well, the Erbse did change positions, a little bit, and she was able to do the measurments to complete the test.
The whole thing was incredible! The doctor showed us the joints and bones, the heart, the brain. She showed us the direction of the blood flowing through the heart, and she was able to let us listen to the heartbeat!
Here are some of the better photos of Erbse from the NT scan:

If you look closely, you can see a good portion of the Erbse's face.

A good side view of the Erbse.

The good news was that given the combined results of my age, blood test, and measurment of the neck folds, the Erbse's risk for chromosomal abnormalities is 1:4000, and that the organs and brain are all forming quite well. The doctor also said that the Erbse was very active and agile.

15 weeks

2011-07-12T23:07:00.000-07:00

*How far along?: 15 weeks

*Total weight gain: So far, I've gained about 1.3 kilos, or about 2.8 lbs.

*How big is baby?: Today, the baby is the size of an orange!

Your Baby: Week 15

Continuing the march towards normal proportions, baby's legs now outmeasure the arms. And, finally, all four limbs have functional joints. Your fetus is squirming and wiggling like crazy down in the womb, though you probably still can't feel the movements. from: www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes?: I put on my biggest pair of jeans this morning, and realized that I may only hava few days left to button them. Looks like a trip to H&M is in my near future!

*Sleep?: Sleeping fine, and much less tired than last week.

*Best moment this week?: Not really baby related, but we spent a few days in Italy. It was the Erbse's first trip to Italy :)

*Movement?: I can't figure out if its my pulse or movement. The problem is that I have to breathe at some point, at which time I lose the feeling of whatever it is that I am feeling.

*Food cravings?: Watery fruit, salads

*Labor signs?: Fortunately, not yet

*Belly button in or out?: Innie.

*What I miss: the thought of going home and not eating clams and lobster

*What I'm looking forward to: Feeling the Erbse move

*Milestone: no real milestone, aside from Erbse's first trips, and booking my flight home next week.

14 Weeks

2011-07-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed reading Monique's blog, throughout her pregnancy. So, I decided to use her weekly update format, which was really concise and good. This is my first update, and sadly, I have no bump picture, but rest assured friends, I have a noticable bump :)

Hope you enjoy the first of my weekly bump updates

*How far along?: 14 weeks

*Total weight gain: So far, I've gained about 1.3 kilos, or about 2.8 lbs.

*How big is baby?: Today, the baby is the size of a lemon!

Your adorable little fetus is busy with thumb sucking, toe wiggling, and (not so cute but equally amazing) making urine and breathing amniotic fluid as the liver, kidneys and spleen continue to develop. Lanugo (thin, downy hair) is growing all over the body for warmth.
From: www.thebump.com

*Maternity clothes?: Not yet, thanks to low-waisted jeans, and some larger shirts that I own. I have noticed I have a narrowing choice of clothes though that still fit comfortably.

*Sleep?: I'm still a bit tired, but sleeping well.

*Best moment this week?: Most definately our NT scan, seeing the baby move, and having the doctor tell us that the Erbse is so far, quite healthy.

*Movement?: I haven't felt anything yet. But, the Erbse was really moving around during the NT scan. The doctor says we have a very agile and active baby.

*Food cravings?: Watery fruit, salads

*Labor signs?: Fortunately, not yet

*Belly button in or out?: Innie.

*What I miss: eating cheese without checking to see if its pasteurized

*What I'm looking forward to: Feeling the Erbse move

*Milestone: NT scan last week, as well as the second trimester!

Our last doctor's appointment

2011-07-05T13:55:00.001-07:00

Life got really crazy last week, as our Richtfest preparations reached full swing. But, we had such an exciting Monday, I really wish I could have posted about it.
We went to our second OB appointment on Monday evening. Everything looks GREAT!
The ultrasound showed that the Erbse is the correct size, growing well, good heartbeat. The doctor started with the traditional 2-D ultrasound. It was so cute, because we could see that the Erbse had reached "gummy bear" stage. Around 9 weeks, the embryo looks and is about the same size, as a gummy bear. She showed us the fingers, and toes- there are 10 of each :) And she let us watch for a while, because the Erbse was moving all over the place!
Then, she switched 3-D. OH MY GOSH, I could not believe that they would do a 3-D ultrasound at almost 10 weeks. Normally, I've seen 3-D ultrasounds from 20 weeks or even later. But, wow, 10 weeks. And, it was just amazing!

Maybe it is a little naive of me, but I had no idea that the Erbse already was a baby! You can see the ears, the arms, little tummy, legs, feet, toes! AMAZING!

Seeing the Erbse like this really made it feel a lot more real, especially since I have such few symptoms, I don't seem to feel pregnant yet. The doctor said that everything was healthy, and looked great.

We decided to do the NT scan, which measures the folds of the neck for possible Down Syndrome, as well as checks the organs for development. I had blood taken for the test already at the end of Monday's appointment, and we have our next appointment for the scan on June 29th.

I also received my Mutterpass (Mother's Passport,) from the doctor.

The Mutterpass is a form of documentation, as a quick reference for all OB appointments during the pregnacy, and a few weeks after the birth. I am assuming it is especially useful when you visit other doctors, like your GP or if you have to go to the hospital. But, it is also a very handy thing to have. In my Mutterpass, I have listed:
-dates and times of appointments
- any blood tests and results
- results of ultrasounds
- a running documentation of my weight and blood pressure
- documentation of previous pregnancies (including my ectopic pregnancy)

It seems like a really great way to keep a lot of information really handy. You have to give Germans credit for their efficency!

With the exciting news, Joern and I headed home, and I made my first baby purchase!
I bought a diaper bag! I fell in love with it a few weeks ago, and it was on sale at Kate Spade. My plan was to make the purchase if everything was okay. Yay! I bought the Kennywood Small Coal Baby Bag, which despite the word small, is quite sizable:

What really won me over, besides the very "Allison," design of the bag, and the fact that it isn't overly boyish or girlish, is the fact that it comes with stroller straps, so you can attach it to the handles of your stroller, which seems really convenient!

Its official- we are on our way to becoming parents! Joern and I are just over the moon excited!

9 weeks 4 days

2011-07-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

We're anxiously awaiting our next appointment with the OB. We're both so very hopeful that everything is okay with the little Erbse. And I am hoping to see the Erbse again.
In terms of symptoms, I am still pretty okay. I am sometimes a little crampy, and have been having shooting pains in my womanly bits lately. But otherwise, I feel good. I am hoping this means that things are all going well.
I have learned that pregnancy is a lot of waiting, and a lot of wondering. It must have been really difficult in the past, no ultrasounds. You needed to have a lot of faith.
It is a frustrating time to be pregnant though in Germany. There is a serious outbreak of E Coli here, that is very dangerous. Unfortunately, it has been 2 weeks now, and the researchers and doctors have still not found the cause, and are warning people not to eat fresh vegetables. Ugh! Just the time when I want to eat especially healthy. Sheesh!
I am also missing cheese. As it stands now, my plan is to gorge on soft cheeses after the Erbse comes. I miss Camembert, blues, and a wide variety of other unpasteurized cheeses. Who needs to lament over alcohol when you can miss cheese?!

Well, that is pretty much the update from here. I do believe that if things go well at the doctor on Monday, then we'll become quite a bit more baby-focused. Looking forward to Monday!

A little "Erbse-imposed" glitch with work

2011-07-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

Last week Monday, we got the blood tests results back from the doctor. Everything looked great, except for immunity to Cytomegalovirus (CMV.) I have no immunity.
I guess the amazing part is that in the past week, I have finally learned to spell Cytomegalovirus due to lots and lots of Google searches. It turns out that up to 80% of the population in the US has had exposure to CMV. Amazingly, not me. It is a virus that stays in your body for quite a long time and is passed through ALL bodily fluids. It tends to be particularly easily passed around among kids under the age of 3. If a pregnant woman contracts the virus and she is not immune, there is a small chance that the virus can have devistating effects on the baby.
Under German law, if you test negative, like me, and work with children under the age of 3, your workplace must find a new position for you during your pregnancy. When we spoke with the doctor about the test results, she offered that I needed to speak with my boss because every workplace has a procedure in place for this. I knew my workplace did not have such procedure.
On Wednesday, I met with my principal. He was very congratulatory, and admitted that he also was uncertain of our next step. On Thursday, I met with the HR lady at work. She was surprisingly kind, and said simply, "you cannot avoid contact with bodily fluids with little kids." Our final decision, which is still tentative, is that I will complete the school year in our classroom- after all, there are only a few weeks left. But, next year, I will be given another position, no kids contact, for the three months before November 22, which is when my maternity leave is scheduled to begin.
When I left the meeting, we agreed that both she and I would brainstorm potential jobs within the school. Yesterday, I spoke with the school librarian, who offered me a potential position- cataloging home reading books in English and German. She warned me that it was a huge job, but that she needed assistance, and also agreed it would be perfect, as I could do the job from the staff room without coming into much contact with kids.
It makes me very sad to have to go to work and have no cuddles, no hugs, and no gigantic laughs from the kids. Three months in the staff room seems relatively lonely. But then again, if it helps keep the little Erbse safe, then there is no question. I will continue cementing this position next week, and write another update.

Dear Little Erbse

2011-07-05T02:36:00.000-07:00

Well Little Erbse,
Today, I am 7 weeks pregnant, which means that you, dear Little Erbse are 5 weeks old! We have been together over on month. Your daddy and I love you so. We have discussed changing your name this week, because you're no longer the size of a pea, but more like a blueberry. But, you are our our sweet little pea.

Thank you Little Erbse. So far, I haven't been very sick. Just a little queasiness, but nothing too big. You seem to love orange juice though, because surprisingly, it helps to settle my stomach. With all the vitamin C I am drinking, you're certain to have a sunny personality!

We're doing well so far Little Erbse. I did get my test results back though that say that I am not immune to a virus called CMV. This means that I need to be extra careful at work, with all of our little cutie-pies, so that you don't get sick. Believe me, Little Erbse, I will do everything in my power to keep you healthy.

Well Little Erbse, here is to the next few weeks, then the next few months, to when we meet. We're on the downward slide now in the first trimester, only a few more weeks to go now, and we'll be out of one big danger zone.

Stay strong Little Erbse, we love you,
Your Mommy and Daddy

Our latest, and greatest, news!

2011-07-04T03:18:00.000-07:00

Sometime's its better to let pictures do the talking:

And yes, the post card is in the background for added impact: we were in Hong Kong when we found out!

Our little Erbse (or pea in English,) is due on January 3, 2012. Joern and I could not be more excited! Just look:

Obviously, we were quite cautious this time around in our excitement though, considering our last pregnancy was ectopic. But, we did tell Joern's parents in Hong Kong, on the sidewalk, somewhere between our hotel and 7Eleven. Of course, we toasted to the Erbse at the White Stag!

Once we returned from Hong Kong, we called the doctor straight away to set up an appointment. She saw us on Wednesday, the 11th of May. First thing, it was time for the ultrasound, just to make sure that the Erbse was okay.

Gestational age: 6w1d

We were so relieved when the doctor said that everything looked good. The Erbse is the right size and in the right place. We even got to see the heartbeat, which may have been the most incredible thing I have ever seen!

After the hoorays and tears calmed down, it was time to discuss a few things. First were the "No's". No drinking, no smoking, no raw meat, no unpasteurized milk products. We also discussed tests that were covered by the compulsory government health insurance, and those that were an additional cost. She gave me a list of tests and their cost. The blood test for thyroid was covered, but the tests for CMV and rubella were not covered, they were 15 Euro each. Since I work with little kids, we felt that the additional tests were very important. So, after I finshed chatting with the doctor, I had a blood test, for my hormone levels, thyroid, CMV and rubella immunity. We're waiting to hear back on the results.

I called my dad on Wednesday night to tell him the good news. He also had very good news to share that his foot is healing nicely. Then, I shared my news. I think my dad is very excited with the idea that he is going to be a grandpa. He'll be a super grandpa, I know that already!

We've only shared the news with a few people so far, and everyone is so very happy. I told my long time friend Erica last week over the phone, and we squealed like we were eleven again. I shared the news with my friend Mandy, and she was so very happy. Yesterday, we shared the news with two other friends, Heidi and Julie. I was hoping to do it in a more dramatic way, but instead, Joern simply announced, "You know that Allison is pregnant, right?" Obviously, lots of clapping and congraulations. I also told my friend Iris, who also offered many hoorays and congratulations, as well as two other friends at work. I know that outing yourself so early at work isn't always desiriable, but I needed to let a few people know for a variety of reasons.

Otherwise, things are going well. I feel well, have slight nausea, a little tenderness and pains, but overall, just excited. With every day that goes by, my sigh of relief grows a bit. I have started looking into nursery furniture, and figuring out how on earth to properly set up that gigantic bedroom that will become the Erbse's nursery. I am hoping to buy the furniture at home, and to ship it in a partial container back. Fingers crossed that I can figure out how to do it! I am so looking forward to taking my aunt baby shopping when I am home this summer. I am sure it will be an exciting time for the both of us!

I haven't quite figured out how I will do baby posts from now on. Not sure if I will write letters to the baby, keep this as a personal diary, or what. No worries, I'll continue to post. Can't wait to see what the next 9 months bring!

So close, I can taste it

2011-06-24T03:05:00.000-07:00

Summer break begins exactly one week from today. This year especially, I am itching to get out!
Its gearing up to be a busy summer here at Casa del Roesner. My cousin and her friend Carla are due in any day, the last stop on their whirlwind 7 weeks in Europe. Of course, it would be more wonderful if I were not working all next week, and didn't have a "goodbye" dinner on Tuesday night and a end of year after school party on Wednesday, but no way out of that stuff. The good news though is that we'll be able to spend evenings together, they'll have their freedom, and we can look forward to exciting German traveling the first week of July.
My cousin leaves on the 10th of July, and I am trying to convince dear Joern that I cannot live without spending a few days in Italy, lounging on the beach, and taking a few dips in the Adriatic. We'll see how this works out.
I also am in the process of booking my ticket home for the summer. I really wish Joern could come with me, but we're not in the greatest position to travel right now, you know, witt the house being built and all. But, I am probably going to be home for about 4 weeks. I am so looking forward to hanging out with my dad, my sister, my aunt, and my cousin (the one who will be here very soon.) I have lots of shopping to do too!
I can imagine that following my trip home, my final summer weeks in Germany will be spent packing, and wracking my brains about final decisions on the house.
Fill the in-betweens with some doctor's appointments, and hopefully, quite a few books, and I have just completed my eight week summer vacation. It goes so quick!

Rounding out the first trimester

2011-06-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

Today is an exciting day! Tomorrow, I'm 12 weeks! This means I am thisclose to the end of the first trimester- already!

So far, I have been pretty okay. I noticed that I am more tired over the past few weeks, and am looking forward to my second trimester energy boost! I have recently also been having some cramps. I talked with my aunt, and did some reading, and cramping is kind of normal at 12 weeks. It turns out that everything is really growing, and pulling on everything inside my body.

As far as food goes, I've been eating watermelon like its going out of style. Oh and peaches, I am so happy that peaches are starting to come into season. I figure you can't really go wrong with peaches and watermelon though!

I'm starting to realize that I'm growing a little baby bump! My stomach has never been the flatest to begin with, but over the past few days, it is getting much rounder, and although I still don't look pregnant, I definately look different!

We are going to the doctor next week Wednesday for our NT scan. This was an optional test, and we decided to do it, not out of concern over Down Syndrome, but because it provides a really early look at the spine and the organs, so that we know if there is a problem. I had blood work already at our last appointment for the NT scan, so now, we're just waiting until next week for the results.

Oh, something exciting happened today: I got to work and checked my email, and my maternity leave cover was advertised internally today. Wow! I never knew what an exciting feeling it would be to see your own job advertised, because it is such an exciting thought to be on maternity leave! I spoke with my principal today, and he would like me to come to the staff meeting on Wednesday and make an announcement (kind of like closing the stall door after the horse escapes, as the whole staff read the email today, and it listed my position and the location- which would leave only my friend Iris, or myself, as the pregnant one.) Oh well! And then I asked him about letting the parents know. He said that I should tell the parents myself. So, I talked about it with my colleagues, and we decided that I would announce at the beginning of our end of year party on Wednesday. So, Wednesday is a day of big announcements at work!

Party Planning

2011-05-31T12:03:00.000-07:00

I haven't really spoken about the Richtfest in a while. Most probably because we moved the date, and then, I kind of stopped thinking about it. But no avoiding the Richtfest anymore. Because it is almost here. A week from Saturday, yup, in eleven days, Joern and I will host the largest party I have ever hosted. I think what is so difficult in the planning is that we don't have any idea how many people are coming. I know the list of invited is over 100, but we currently only have about 15 definites. It is not easy to figure out how much you need for between 15 and 115 guests. Oy! The problem is that the invitation process has been quite open. Joern will bump into someone he hasn't seen in years, and say, "hey our Richtfest is on June 11, you should come by."

I realized that the food for this event could not equal the impressiveness of our Thanksgiving feast. Instead of pureed celery root and apple, it will be potato salad.   The secret is to keep it simple and make a lot.
So far, this is the menu:
   Appetizers
     Chips & salsa (and maybe a layered dip.)
     Chicken wings
   Meats
      Würstchen (akinA as hot dogs)
      Hamburgers, and yes, we are still in the great hamburger tryout phase
      Pork steaks
   Sides (here's where I'm a little weak, and have admitted to needing help,)
      Couscous salad with feta and dried cranberries
      Potato salad
      Possibly baked ziti, if Joern will ever agree to it.
Desserts
      Cookies
      Texas Brownies

Today's job was to buy some, scarily not all, but some, drinks. We bought more beer than I imagined. And of course, now I'm left wondering if we might need more. But I must admit, I have never been in possession of 20 cases of beer!

All 20 cases loaded, a very proud Joern!

Very proud of his Gallo wine too!

Frightening to think how quickly this will go!

Obviously, there is quite a bit more work to do. Fortunately, this weekend is a four-day weekend. I am planning on baking cookies on Thursday. Friday will be errands day, including purchasing the meat, the final paper products, and my Richtfest outfit! Saturday will be decoration day, setting out all the decorations, and printing photos and such.
Next week, busy week. It looks like our 10th anniversary will be spent up to our elbows in potato salad and couscous salad. And Thursday will be busy brownie baking night.

Although I am looking forward to the Richtfest, I am more looking forward to putting this behind us, and to moving on with the house!

Our last full day in Hong Kong

2011-05-29T06:01:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a bittersweet day for me, because I fell in love with Hong Kong, and I only had one last day to soak it all in.
On Saturday morning, we returned to the fair one last time. On the last day of fairs, many of the exhibtors are looking to offload their product samples so that they have less to lug back home. And others, are willing to give samples to serious buyers on the last day of the fair. Before we went into the convention center, we set out our plan of attack. We had about 4 halls to visit, and at least 20 exhibitors to find, and pick up the samples that we had earlier requested.
While Joern and his parents planned their route, I snapped some more pictures of the way to the convention center from the hotel.

Inside the convention center

In total, we needed about 3 hours to get to everyone we needed to get to. We had an especially enjoyable conversation with the head of a company from which Joern's family purchases poker items. He was extrordinarily knowlegable about many, many markets. He also explained to us a lot about the US market, which seems to run a bit differently than German.

Afterwards, we split up with Joern's parents, and decided to meet later for dinner. Joern and I decided to take the Star Ferry back over to Tsim Sha Tsui, because they had a great souvenir shop, and there was a lot more there to check out.

I was also happy because the weather was a bit clearer, so I was finally able to get some better pictures:

Gloucester Road

The old exhibtion center

Again, I was happy and thankful for the clearning, in order to take some clearer pictures from the ferry.

Once we landed, we headed first to into the Ocean Terminal Shopping Center. It is a mall located extremely close to the ferry terminal. Oh my gosh, the mall took my breath away! Joern really wanted to go into the Toys R'Us inside the mall, so this was our first destination. The Toys R'Us was almost cooler than their flagship Times Square location. It was so well planned out and there were so many interesting little sections!

From Toys R'Us, we headed up to the balcony overlooking the harbor. There was a fab restaurant there, that would have been perfect for enjoying a cocktail, but we were a little pressed for time.

Sadly, we didn't have enough time to explore the entire mall. Of course, I'm sure Joern would not have said there was anything sad about not being dragged all over the mall :) From the mall, we headed back up towards all those crazy huge designer stores, and found a beautiful building, and decided to check out the area.

It turns out that the area is now named, 1881 Heritage. The very obviously British influenced building that serves as the backdrop was the headquarters of the Hong Kong Marine police from the 1800s until the handover of Hong Kong to China. It is a beautiful area now with luxury stores, a hotel and restaurants.

We then realized it was time to head back to the ferry, as we planned to meet Joern's parents for dinner. I had to run to my favorite little souvenir shop first to do some last minute gift shopping.

Once we made it to the ferry terminal, we realized that we were just in time to have missed the last ferry, and while we were waiting, we got to witness the Symphony of Lights, the nightly light show along the waterfront. The show actually takes place on both sides of the harbor, but since we were on the Kowloon side, we could only watch the Hong Kong Island side, but it was impressive!

I would love to go up to the Peak next time and watch the light show from there!

It was another busy day, and we weren't really very hungry for dinner. After dinner, we took a little walk, but we were both exhausted. We were only sad because it was almost time to leave the city that quickly grew in my heart.

A day in the life of our family, Hong Kong style

2011-05-22T05:04:00.000-07:00

Since I brought my little pink point-and-shoot with me on Friday during our trip to Hong Kong, I was able to take lots of pictures during the day. Good thing, because it was a busy day!
After breakfast and getting ready, we made our daily 5 minute walk to the convention center. The convention center is in a really cool location, because it is right along the water. It helps when you're tired after walking and walking and talking and talking to stop by the Dragon Lounge and to look out on the harbor.

We stayed at the fair for about 5 hours, until 4:00. It was yet another busy day of walking up and down all the aisles of businesses, trying to attract buyers. We met with a few regular suppliers of the business, as well as met with a few new people who had interesting products. There were TONS of purse hangers, incredibly so. Lots and lots of reuseable shopping bags as well. For us, the waveboards were interesting, as well as some old-fashioned yet wonderful quality sporty-type items (think paddleball and travel soccer equipment.) We picked up some new samples of Fun-Bands, as well as some "impulse items," like high bouncing balls. It was a busy afternoon.
At 4:00, it was time to leave the fair and hop on one of these:

We had an appointment with a new supplier at 4:30. Many suppliers have showrooms in China. When you get lucky, the suppliers have showrooms in Hong Kong. The great thing about a showroom is it is a location where suppliers have all of their products to show, as well as some offices.

It was my first time to Tsim Sha Tsui, on Kowloon (on the mainland.) Sadly, it was a very foggy day, so the views from the ferry were, well, a little dull.

From the moment we left the Star Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, I realized that this area had a much different vibe than Wan Chai.

We spent about an hour with the suppliers. They had really cool items, like water guns and different shooting things. The only thing that shook me a little was that the company was really large, and the two guys who founded the company were really young.

After our meeting, Joern wanted to go back to an electronics store where he had purchased an Android touchpad during his last trip to Hong Kong. The charging plug had broken on the trip back, so he wasn't able to use it for months, so he was hoping to buy a new plug.

Of course, what I enjoyed about doing this, versus heading back to the Star Ferry Terminal immediately, was the ability to walk around and check- out Tsim Sha Tsui.

I love Chinese in-your-face, loud advertising!

This mosque was quite beautiful.

And then, the shopping!

We headed back to the Star Ferry Terminal. On the way, we noticed a large crowd gathering, and realized what was happening:

Everyone had turned to TVs to watch the Royal Wedding!

Once we got to the terminal, we were lucky to find another TV.

I have to admit, it was pretty cool to stand in a crowd of people in China watching live on televison an event that people were watching all around the world!

Once we were on the boat, I spent the short journey hoping that the weather would miraculously clear and that I would have a beautiful view of the Hong Kong Island skyline. Sadly, it wasn't meant to be:

We headed back to the hotel for a little nap and to freshen up. On to dinner, at the White Stag. We stayed in after dinner on Friday night. It was a long day, and the jet lag finally caught up with us. Plus, there was plenty to watch on TV, I had a lot of Royal Wedding catching up to do!

Night out in Hong Kong

2011-05-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hong Kong really comes to life at night. During our week in HK, Joern and I would frequently go back to the hotel after dinner, which turned out to be pretty early, took a nap, and would go for a long stroll at night. On our second night in HK, we took a really long walk from the middle of Hong Kong island over to the end. It was a great night, and so much fun!

And before we went home, we stopped by the White Stag for last call.

Hong Kong Part I

2011-05-08T04:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, today is the day I take my stand, and return to this blog. It kills me that I've neglected this blog so very badly. The house is only a minimal excuse, because the house is only the house. I do have a life outside of the house, even if some days, it doesn't feel that way.
So without further adieu, I welcome you readers back to my blog! Of course, I will start with something really easy and totally non-boring, but what a great way to start: Hong Kong!

As I said in my previous post, the flight over was fantastic! The most exciting part for me was that this was only the second time in my nine years living here that I managed to fly east of Munich. And that one time I flew east of Munich it was to Istanbul, I never even set foot on the Asian continent. We were so lucky on the flight over to have fantastic weather, that allowed me to see the landscape almost the entire trip (well, at least into Russia, then we hit night.)

Poland, between Lodz and Warsaw

Near Minsk, Belarus

Somewhere in Russia. The map on the plan was sparse with details.

I felt like a little kid, it was so very exciting! And then, I felt so bummed when the flight attendants came by and had us put down our window shades. Grr!

We landed in Hong Kong at 6:40 am. I was so happy that the sun had risen, so I could snap a few shots of our approach. The Hong Kong airport is built on reclaimed land, which has resulted in the airport being more of an island unto itself.

Once we got through immigration and customs, we made our way over to the train. The train is a high-speed train that has three stops; Tsing Yi, a former fishing village; Kowloon, the southern part of Hong Kong connected to the mainland; and Hong Kong island.

Although the train ride was very quick, it did give me a good opportunity to take in some of the areas around Hong Kong. I was immediately impressed that this was a huge city with a lush, green, mountainous backdrop.

We also rode by the Kwai Tsing Container Terminals, which quickly reminded me that not only were we coming to a cool city, but that this city is responsible for the transport of many of the products we use daily. Hong Kong is completely a global player.

Once at the train station, on Hong Kong island, we then took a shuttle bus to the hotel.
Again the shuttle bus provided more time for sightseeing. And very slow sightseeing at that, the traffic was insane!

After a good rest, we headed to the convention center, for our main purpose of the trip, to go to the Hong Kong Gifts and Premium Fair. Of course, I already had to take a million pictures on the five minute walk to the convention center.

The most amazing thing to me in Hong Kong was the sheer amount of things to see. It was like a feast for the senses.

The fair itself was interesting. We were only there for about two hours on Wednesday. The exhibition center is the building in the bottom left corner in the above collage. I noticed the big trends there were handbag hangers, paddle ball sets, and of course, waveboards. Again, this was a gift fair, hence waveboards and handbag hangers.

We were lucky, while we were visiting the fair, the sun started to set. So, as we left, we got our first glimpse of Hong Kong at dusk. This is when Hong Kong gets its second wind.

After a yummy burger dinner at the White Stag, a British pub, Joern and I went for a little walk around Wan Chai, the quintessential Hong Kong district where we were staying. Despite being exhausted, I couldn't help but want to get out and see Hong Kong!

Ni Hao from Hong Kong!

2011-04-27T07:15:00.000-07:00

I honestly never expected that I would ever be here, but here I am. Well, here we are. I love Hong Kong!

We flew out of Frankfurt yesterday at 2:15 pm. We flew Cathay Pacific, which was a very nice airline. The seats were roomy and comfortable, the food was tasty, the people very nice, and the in-flight entertainment was awesome! I was way too excited to sleep (which is quite unlike me,) but I was so happy to be able to watch the entire season #6 of Criminal Minds.

Okay, there were quite a few reasons for my excitement. First, and foremost, Joern and I were headed to Hong Kong. Secondly, which was also quite cool, we flew over so many countries, and because the weather was so great, I could see a ton! We headed east over Germany, and into Poland. Wow, I have never flown above Poland. From Poland, we headed over Belarus towards the Ukraine, over Russia, into Kazakhstan, and finally into China. Hello, these are countries I have never flown over. The farthest east I have previously been was Venice. What a huge difference!

We landed at 6:40 am Hong Kong time. The airport is really easy to navigate. Once we were out of the plane and picked up our luggage, it was time to head over to the train ticket machine to buy a ticket for the train that heads from the airport to the city center. I must admit, pretty much from the airport, I was in love. Hong Kong is so beautiful!

Since we are staying on Hong Kong Island, we got off at the Hong Kong Station. From there, we took a shuttle bus to our hotel. There was crazy bad traffic, but that was fine by me, I had more time to stare out the window, and take in this amazing city!

We are staying at the Guandong Hotel Wharney in Wanchai. The room is great, and the location is unbeatable! Wanchai is like the city center of Hong Kong Island, and pretty much where it all began in the development of Hong Kong. Wanchai is like “Old School Hong Kong.”

Once we rested, it was a 5 minute walk over to the convention center for the International Gift Fair. We were only there about 2 hours, as they closed at 6:30. It was interesting to see how the business works, and I always love to see Joern in his “salesman,” mode.

After the fair, we walked back towards the hotel, stopping across the street at the White Stag, a British pub, for dinner. Dinner was so yummy, and afterwards, Joern took a nice walk around.
I’m exhausted, and tomorrow, we’re headed off to the fair again. But, I am so excited to explore some more of this fascinating city!

Looking forward to tomorrow!

2011-04-25T03:39:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how well our vacation timing worked out this year at school. We are on Easter break right now, which happens to coincide with the Hong Kong Premium and Gifts Fair, and as it happens, Joern and his parents are going to this fair this week. Lucky, lucky, excited me, I get to go with them! Having been with Joern such a very long time now, he has gone to Hong Kong quite a few times over the course of our relationship. And FINALLY, I get to go too! I have heard there is great shopping and Dim Sum in Hong Kong. Shopping might not be the best choice, simply because we're building a house, but Dim Sum sounds right up my alley!
I know that it will be long days at the fair, but I am excited and hopeful to do some exploring as well!
Looking forward to seeing you, and posting lots of pictures when we get back!

Things loved this winter

2011-03-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

In honor of the first day of Spring, I just wanted to recap those things I especially loved this winter.

1. The completion of the exterior of the house, including the roof:

2. L'Occitane Shea Butter hand cream

My friend Ashley used to gush about this hand cream at work all the time. I'm not sure I could make it through winters anymore without this hand cream. I went through a whole giant tube of it this winter.

image from http://www.loccitane.com/

3. Parmigiano Reggiano

Joern and I love Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Imagine our surprise when my dad and stepmom sent us a big block of it with some ultra-yummy traditional balsamic vinegar this year for Christmas!

image from www.parmashop.com

4. Christmas Markets
Joern and I did our fair share of Christmas Marketing this year. Stuttgart, Neuffen, Esslingen, and Strassbourg, made for a very toasty and fun Christmastime.

5. Finally going home!
I spent my first full Christmas here in Germany, and realized that I do not like missing Christmas at home. But, Joern and I did go home two weeks ago. It was a very short week at home, but I am so glad that we went, and so thankful to Joern for being such a great guy for going home with me! It was wonderful to see my dad, stepmom, sister, aunt, cousins, and some old friends. It was also great just to be back home, to feel good again, and recharge my batteries.

All in all, winter 2010/ 2011 was a pretty good one. But I have to admit, I was so happy to see the sun today on this first day of spring. I am looking forward to spring in Germany, flowers blooming, and warmer temperatures. Of course, I am also looking forward to seeing what spring brings for our house.

Thinking about Japan

2011-03-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

Obviously, I have failed miserably at my attempt to increase blogging so far this year. But, I do feel it is important to say a word or two about what is going on in Japan. Maybe tomorrow, I'll return to my irregularly scheduled blog about me.

The day before we left CT last week, Friday, March 11th, we woke up to hear about a tsunami that hit Japan. I think we were both shocked and starting to wake up. Joern said, "huh, a tsunami?" And then, I said, "well, they had an earthquake a few weeks ago." Of course, turns out that March 11th, 2011 became a day that would change the world, and still continues to change it. Japan was rocked by one of the largest recorded earthquakes in history, which later was identified as a magnitude of 9.0. Although the epicenter was in the Pacific, the earthquake itself shook the country like a leaf, and unleashed a tsunami that has devistated the north east of the country. The earthquake and tsunami have now caused what is expected to be a nuclear meltdown in the Fukushima power plant.

Since this day, we have been glued to the television. Probably, the majority of the world is experiencing this. I do not remember being this starved for news since September 11. We're a week out now, and every day, I find my thoughts frequently in Japan, and the first thing I do when I get home from work is switch on CNN for an update. I remember my mom talking about how the entire Vietnam War was played out on television, and how it had such an impact on Americans. Well, here we are now, and every day, I watch the stories of the survivors, the pain, anguish, and fear at the loss of loved ones, homes, lives. And of course, the daily tragedy unfolding with the power plant. We watch endless reports of the valiant workers and military members who are risking their lives, exposing themselves to frighteningly high levels of radiation in oder to prevent catrostophe.

This has also hit very close to home as our school has an extremely large population of Japanese families. During the past few years at work, I have eagerly learned about the Japanese culture, tried desperately to learn Japanese words to help out our kids, and shared many smiles and laughs with the moms. I even assist once a week in the Japanese mother tongue class. When I heard of the earthquake, tsunami, and power plant tragedy, I worried first for all those families that I know, and then my heart bled for the nation as a whole.

Our school hosted their mulitcultural evening tonight. In a prelude to the event, we had an assembly this morning, with a parade of nations represented at our school, an Indian dance, and then a very cool, and very touching presentation by some Japanese children. Children in our school are trying hard to raise money to send to Japan. Everyone wants to help in a situation where you feel so entirely helpless, and all you can do is watch.

I am truly so very heartbroken by this tragedy. My thoughts are and continue to be with the people of Japan whose lives have been so devistated.

My little experiment

2011-02-05T11:23:00.000-08:00

Now that we're mortgage holders (aka, Painfully in Debt,) I am becoming a little more, shall we say, frugal, or better yet, Swabian.
Some of our expenses are unavoidable, I get that. Even travel to the US, while some would say is a luxury, to me is really a necessity. But there must be ways that we can cut costs a bit. My new experiment is with food.
I guess I should explain grocery stores in Germany, because it is a very complex topic here. German grocery stores fall into levels. Here is my view on the breakdown:
Gourmet- stores like Finekost Böhm and the Market Hall in Stuttgart. The Böhm reminds me of Balducci's in Westport, so I enjoy wandering through this store often.
High end- (most similar to Stop and Shop,) like Edeka and Rewe. My favorite grocery store is an Edeka, it is an E-Center, meaning that it is quite similar to the Stop and Shop in Fairfield, with very high end items. I trust in this store, especially the quality of their meats, and this is where I exclusively buy my fish.
Medium price / Big stores- these stores are more like larger Stop & Shops (in CT, ) or Giant in Maryland. These stores here would be like the Real. They have normally good quality products and are very tidy.
Lower price / Big stores- I have no experience with stores like these in the States. But that might be just my experience. These stores, like Kaufland and Handelshof, are very big, but boast low prices. Their stores tend to be lacking in presentation, items are often still on palettes, and it is more messy in general. Their fruits and veggies are okay, but you have to search to find good stuff. Of course, they have a very large selection, and occassionally, I find that these stores fit my purposes, but it is only occassionally.
Discounters- discounters, like Aldi, are opening up at home too. Discounters offer low prices, because items are mostly all on palettes or in boxes (you have to open up a plastic bag to get a package of paper towels sometimes.) They focus primarily on generic products.

Today, we went to the Market Hall in Stuttgart. This is definately a gourmet shopping experience. It has been rated as one of the best indoor markets in Europe, and I do believe it has earned this title. I especially enjoy the many stands featuring food from Asia, Italy, Spain, Greece, and France. They offer so many otherwise hard to find items, and the food there is of exceptional quality.

We purchased our produce for the first half of the upcoming week from the Market Hall today. And this leads me to my experiment: can we save money with produce?
We purchased the following:
.12 kilos Lamb's lettuce at 12 Euro / kilo. Total- 1.44 Euro
.756 kilos bell peppers at 8 Euro/ kilo. Total- 6.05 Euro
.666 kilos of eggplant at 4.9 Euro/ killo. Total- 3.20 Euro
.504 kilos of zucchini at 4..9 Euro/ kilo. Total- 2.47 Euro
We also purchased a package of snap peas for (I think,) 2.20 Euro, and 2 portobello mushrooms for 4.00 Euro.
The total for today:
19.42 Euro

I don't think I can include the portobellos in the experiment, and I need to figure out if the mushrooms or the snap peas were so expensive. I tend towards the portobellos as they are definately a rare find here. But, everything else on the list is available most everywhere else.
My plan for next Saturday is to include these items in our purchase. I will do one week at the Edeka, which is a high end store, and one week at the Real, which is a big/ medium store. Since Joern and I don't really have a set place to buy our produce, bouncing between high end, big/ medium stores, and discounters, I am very interested in the results of the experiment. I guess I can also include a discounter in my experiment, but for me, it isn't realistic that we will ever be shopping for all of our produce from discount grocery stores.

I am only focusing on produce because, right now, we are on the South Beach diet. So, our meals consist mostly of meat and veggies. We have decided, that we will stick mostly with meat from our local butcher. By local, I mean about 9 house fronts away from ours, and all the employees are Neckartailfingers. This is definately not a way to save money, but we know the meat there is very high quality and enjoy supporting local farmers and the local butcher.

Tonight, we enjoyed a delicous salad with the Lamb's lettuce, and some homemade burgers. I'm looking forward to next week's results!

Dinner with Friends

2011-01-30T05:25:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I posted about an old school friend, Amanda, who was here visiting her boyfriend. Well, last night was her last night here, so we got together for a dinner with both Amanda and her boyfriend. We went to the Dinkelacker Brauereigästatte, which is a restuarant run by Dinkel Acker brewery. Joern had been there before, but I hadn't. Joern said they had good food, but typically a native of this area, was concerned that the restaurant was not "nice" enough to bring visitors there. My feeling is that a restaurant connected to a brewery is always a good choice :)
It was so enjoyable to meet up with Amanda again. When we first met her for lunch, her whole trip lay ahead. It was interesting and enjoyable to hear about the month that she has been here, and her experiences. Once again, I was reminded of how little time Joern and I spend exploring our area. It is so easy to run off to France or Italy, but to spend time around here, at first seems wasteful, but in reality, would be a really smart thing to do. There is so much to do and to see right here!
It was also nice chatting and getting to know Amanda's boyfriend better. It is so fun to meet up with Americans here, and even more fun when you know them already.
Of course, we also enjoyed some yummy beer. The restaurant offers a sampling of 5 of their beers, which is really cool. Dinner was also really yummy. The restaurant served traditional Swabian food, and Joern had a steak with onions, served with sauerkraut, maultaschen, and spaetzle. Yum!

The restaurant also offered a variety of foods cooked with beer. I remember Joern telling me that this was inacceptable to waste beer in such a way, but I guess a brewery is allowed to cook with beer. I had turkey in an Apfelweizen (apple wheat beer,) sauce. It was a little sweet, but also quite delicious!

The restaurant was a fantastic place to enjoy good food and good friends. I am looking forward to Amanda's return to Stuttgart, and I am looking forward to returning to the restaurant with new friends!

Brought to you by the lovers of smooth roads

2011-01-28T08:14:00.000-08:00

I heard a report on the radio yesterday that one of the topics currently being dealt with by parliament (yup, the Bundestag in Berlin,) is the pot-hole crisis. Imagine this being a topic of national importance? And that is listed as a crisis?
I'm sure pot-holes are discussed on a town, or maybe state level, but only the gigantic tire-shredding pot-holes are fixed at home.
Gosh, what a great country that encourages smooth, pot-hole free roads. It only adds to my addiction to big engines and fast cars.
I love Germany!

Lotsa cuteness

2011-01-23T12:35:00.000-08:00

I realize that I don't post about my job too much, but sometimes, it deserves a mention here. The kids this year are so gosh-darn cute. And of course, they do the cutest things and say the cutest things.
Here are a few ultra-cute examples:

1. Peanut butter has become a hot commodity among the Junior Kindergarteners this year. I have no idea why, as most kids don't really know or eat PB. But whatever, most kids think peanut butter is better than, well peanut butter and jelly :) So the other day, the teacher in our room had used some peanuts in a shell to decorate the classroom. I was sitting at the table with one of my little guys (who I happen to adore,) and he picks up the peanut. Here's our convo:
Me: "Hey, do you know what this is?"
Kid: "Of course, it is a shell."
Me: "Yeah, but do you know what is inside?"
Kid: "Don't be silly, Ms. Allison. Of course I know, its a Peanut Butter Nut!"

2. The other day, we played "Farmer in the Dell." The music teacher is from Wales, so her acccent is slightly different than say, mine, to which the kids have become quite accustomed. So, back to "Farmer in the Dell," we get to the part where "the child takes a nurse," but you can imagine it came out more like "nas." One of our kids, who came from Belgium, and is now a very good little English speaker, looks very confused. I asked her what's wrong, to which she replied, "In Belgium, (points to nose,) this is nas."

And of course, other cuteness abounds. Last week, one of our kids turned 5. Normally birthday parties fall into two categories at school: 1) Moms with lots of money and little time buy a cake that no one eats, or 2) Moms who have enough time, but make cupcakes from a mix (yes, I admit often the Americans,) but again, cupcakes that no one eats. Well, this mom almost borders on one of those moms I read about in blogs. I feel like her birthday cupcakes could end up on the Hostess with the Mostess blog that I adore. Mom made garden theme cupcakes, with crumbled cookie crumbs on top, and then on top of that, marzipan vegggies. When she put them all in a pan, they really resembled veggies growing out of dirt. She even had edible "signs," on which she signposted the rows of different veggies. In the front, she had a large label, "Kid's Garden." As a party favor, she bought each child and us teachers, a little flower. It was such a creative and fantastic looking idea!
Here's a picture of my cupcake and flowers:

Adventures in Shopping

2011-01-09T02:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon, we headed out to Geislingen, which just happens to be the home of the German pots and pans company, WMF. WMF has a factory outlet in Geislingen, but it turns out there is so much more than just WMF products to be found at this store. It turns out that there is a small outlet mall in Geislingen, and it is pretty much all housewares. COOL!
The WMF outlet itself does not only have pots and pans, they had a huge selection of beautiful cutlery and a large selection of WMF items. But the outlet also sells products from Sillit, Kaiser Backform, and Auerhahn cutlery. But the most amazing of all? They sell some 220 V Cuisinart products! Anyone looking for 220 V Cuisinart should head on over to Geislingen! They had blenders, coffee makers, coffee grinders, food processors, and most exciting of all SLOW COOKERS from Cuisinart! The slow cooker was beautiful, sadly, we already have one so I couldn't justify buying the Cuisinart one. But, we did buy this coffee maker:

image from cuisinart.com

We really needed a drip coffee maker, as we have been using our Bosch built in coffee maker for the past few months now, and well, that's prett dumb considering that the built-in is for the house. Also, we missed just having a pot of coffee around. The Cuisinart is so very nice, and so far, it has been making great coffee!

After WMF, we decided to check out the other outlets. There is a Ravensburger outlet, which will be cool when we have kids, because Ravensburger makes beautiful games and puzzles. There was an outlet that sold really beautiful towels and bedding. There was also a Lindt outlet, which seems great for gifts. And, there was a glassware outlet in this center. They sell Nachtman, Spiegelau and Riedel, and had some good prices. I especially love Riedel products, and am so excited to head back once I figure out what we need for our house!

It was a pretty fun hour of shopping. I admit, outlet shopping here is nothing like outlet shopping at home, but that is to be expected. I will definitely keep the Geislingen outlets in mind though next time we need to make any purchases for our home!

"Its a Small, Small World"

2011-01-08T10:59:00.000-08:00

After living abroad for a long time, you start to realize that the very big world is indeed, very small. A few years ago, I found out my best friend from high school, Erica, was living in England with her husband and adorable daughter. It then became the reason for a few wonderful trips to England. I work with a teacher at our school who grew up in Trumbull, CT. I even met a mom of a preschooler at our school, she and her husband are from Texas, but her husband's mom is from Trumbull as well. See, small world.
I am currently going through my smallest of small world situations though. A few months ago, a girl I went to middle school and high school contacted me to let me know that her boyfriend was moving to Stuttgart. Woah, small world! Well, the world gets smaller because she is here now! Joern and I met with Amanda yesterday. It was so weird, so cool, and so fun. We went to our favorite Greek restaurant in Nuertingen for lunch. It was so fun to catch up while gently throwing in references from Fairfield. You truly would have to grow up there to really understand it. It was so nice to see how life can take two people on such a very different path and yet, you can wind up in the same place, so very far from where you started.
After our lunch, we impressed Amanda with our fantastic life of house building, grocery store and electronics store. It also highlighted to me how different life in Europe is from what I expected. When I moved here, I was looking for romance and adventure. In reality, we have jobs, a house, go to the grocery store, and the electronics store. Life isn't much different than it would be at home, just in a different language. It is truly what you make of it.
It was a fantastic afternoon, and I am already looking forward to meeting with Amanda again before she leaves at the end of this month. It is so strange and so fun to be in this situation.

New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-06T02:44:00.000-08:00

I don't normally post my resolutions, because I am not the best at keeping them. This year, instead of setting some hugely lofty goals that will not be met, you know, like losing 50 pounds, I am keeping it simple this year. If I do something huge, it is a plus, if not, then I am just happy to have made simple goals that I can stick with.

1. Read a book once a month. I love reading, but tend to read during school breaks. It is nice, but that leaves me usually bookless in February, May, September, October, and November. Joern and I are actually on our way to Ikea today, and I am going to search for a solution to a light so that I can do some reading in bed. I love reading in bed, but Joern has control of our bedside light, so I have to have the light out before Joern is asleep otherwise I'd have to climb over him to wake him up. Maybe finding a solution with a light would help me to keep up with my reading goal.

2. Have a date night once a month. Not like a huge date night, and it doesn't need to be on Saturday. But, once a month, we should do something a bit out of the ordinary. And no, picking up Chinese take-out doesn't count, unless it is accompanied by a movie.

3. Take walks. I don't want to commit to a five day a week walking schedule, but something want to get outside and get walking.

4. Probably the most lofty of all goals- a cleaning schedule. I currently don't have a cleaning schedule, but it works in our tiny apartment. I can go a few days without really cleaning, although dishes are a daily thing, and the apartment manages well. But, we are looking at moving into over 200 sq. ft within the next 6 or so months. There is no way I can keep up with that without having some sort of a schedule. This is my way of forming a habit that we will bring into our new home.

5. Post more often. I managed 55 posts on this blog in the past year, which comes out to roughly once a week, but it was not a consistent once a week. In my perfect 2011, I would post at least once a week. I need to realize that just because I think my life is rather dull, doesn't mean that it isn't blogable.

Well, there you have it. With this post, I have already worked towards goal #5, I have a post for this week, and I will have a post at the end of the year, when I review my goals.

If you have resolutions, I wish you all the best in keeping them!

How we rang in the New Year

2011-01-04T14:07:00.000-08:00

Instead of going out this New Year's Eve, we decided instead to enjoy a lovely meal at home, just the two of us. Later, we headed over to our house to celebrate. And, we ended the evening by a toast with my in-laws.

Our original plan was to cuddle together and enjoy a dinner of cheese fondue and a thermos of Glühwein in our house. But, we were dog sitting the week between Christmas and New Year's, and the dog was upset by the fireworks, so we thought it would be best to stay at our apartment for the majority of the night.

We started with some wine and a platter of nuts, that my friend Iris made as a Christmas gift.

She made Tandoori Cashews, Roasted Almonds, and Wasabi Peanuts. They were delicious, and the perfect accompaniment to our wine.

Later, I wipped together a tossed salad and prepared a cheese fondue. Growing up, cheese fondue was very much a New Year's Eve tradition with my parents. I'm not sure I really enjoyed it when I was 5, but I must agree, it is a decadent, delicious way to ring in the New Year. It was my first time making cheese fondue, so I was a bit nervous. I decided to use my mom's recipe, from her 1970's Betty Crocker Cookbook that was her go-to cookbook. I was also excited to use my new All-Clad crockpot. It has an aluminum insert for cheese and chocolate fondues, which excitingly enough, can be used as a pot to start the fonude on the stove. One less pan!

The recipe suggested serving the fondue with apples and pears as well as bread. We never had apples with the cheese fondue before, but they went really well with the cheese. Quite a yummy dinner!

After dinner, we watched James Bond, Quantum of Solace on TV. It was nice to cuddle on the couch with the dog, and imagine how life will be when we have a dog of our own. The movie ended at 11:00, so we decided to head over to the house. We brought Abbey over to my in-laws first, because we didn't want her to get scared and get hurt somehow in our house. Then, we trudged through the snow with a bottle of Champagne and a few glasses. There was just enough time to take a tour of the house, and spend a few moments discussing the future, before it was midnight. We enjoyed our first glass of Champagne inside our house, and watched the fireworks explode in the sky.

We are looking forward to the year ahead and wish you all a wonderful, surprise filled 2011!

Farewell 2010

2010-12-31T09:38:00.000-08:00

This year was truly a mixed year for both Joern and myself. I am glad for the good experiences we had, glad to put the difficult ones behind, and looking forward to 2011. Here's just a smattering of what it was like in our world this year.
January-
      January was a pretty low-key month for me. After returning to Germany from our Christmas at home,
      I ended up pretty much stuck, and out of work the entire month.

February-
     February was a much more exciting month for the two of us. Besides returning to work, another highlight
     was definately on the house front. After many long months in the planning stages, we finally were able
     to send in our application for our building permit to the county building department.

March-
     I was finally feeling better in March. Joern and I attended our very first ever town council meeting,
     and with good reason, our house project was up for approval. In March, our house was approved
     by the town, but we still had to wait a few months for the house to be approved by the county. I also
     attended a bridal shower for my friend, Mandy. It was so much fun to hang out with the girls for the day.

April-
        The highlight of April had to be Mandy and Doug's wedding. Mandy has been my friend almost the
        entire time here in Europe. And I was so honored to be a bridesmaid in her amazingly beautiful
        wedding in a castle!
May-
     On the housefront, May brought with it the completion of the kitchen plans, as well as a move to
     a new architect.  We spent a large portion of the month completing the house plans in general.
     Personally, May brought with it the impending acceptance that Joern's time with Sued Salz / Bad
     Reichenhaller was coming to an end. We took advantage of a day off of work by heading down
     to Fussen, which is in the southeast part of Germany. We visited Neuschwanstein Castle.

June-
   June marked the month that I went from being a 30 year old to being a "thirtysomething." Joern surprised nt
   me with a special cake from France, and the county surprised us by finally sending us our building permit.
   At the end of the month, Joern completed 8 years of working with the salt company. It was a bittersweet
   day when Joern said "goodbye" to being the "Salt Man."

July-
    July was a very busy, very warm, and very enjoyable month for us. We spent the majority of the month
    in the States. First, we ran around like crazy purchasing last minute stowaways for the container. In the
    middle of the month, we (well, mostly Joern and my godfather,) packed the container. Somewhere in
    there, we manged to spend quite a bit, but not enough, time with my family. And then, we
    rounded out the month by spending a week in Cape Cod.

      August-
            August was back to Germany, and mostly focused on the house.
            We signed a contract with our builder. On the 19th, we purchased our building lot.

September-
      Working in a school, September marked farewell to the sweet summer, and started a new school year.
      We watched the house go from a hole in the ground to having the slab completed and the walls of the
      walls of the garages formed.

    In another bittersweet moment, we found out that we were pregnant in September. It was such
    an exciting, incredible few weeks.

October-
      October was a month of struggles. While the house really moved along, the pregnancy did not.
      We found out in October that the pregnancy was ectopic and in early October, I had surgery
       to remove one of my fallopian tubes.  I really was forced to look at my life in October. Walked
      away from the month so thankful for my husband and my very caring family and friends.

November-
      Healthwise, in November, I was back to myself. We spent the first week of November traveling in
      Ireland.

When we returned to Germany, it was pretty much house, house, house. By the end of the month,
the first floor was completed and the ceiling was poured.

December-
         I am pretty sure that all people living in Germany will remember December 2010 with one word
         in mind- SNOW! It pretty much snowed for the enitre month. The house is on hold until the weather
         warms up a bit and it stops snowing. But it has been a truly beautiful month.

                     Personally, I will remember December 2010 as my first ever Christmas away from home. Surprisingly,
         I wasn't as sad as I thought I would be. I missed everyone, but it was a very love-filled holiday.

And there you have it. Our year in review. May 2011 bring all of you, my blog readers health and happiness.

Strasbourg Christmas Market

2010-12-31T01:50:00.000-08:00

Joern and I decided to take advantage of my Christmas break to spend a day away from home. I remembered hearing a while ago that the Christmas market in Strasbourg, France was open the week after Christmas. So, after some internet research, we decided on Monday to head out to Strasbourg.
Since we had such a lot of snow over Christmas, Joern decided that instead of taking the Autobahn to get there, we would instead drive through the Black Forest. It was such a beautiful drive, I am so happy that he knows the area so very well.
Of course, they received much more snow in the Black Forest than we did here, so the drive was even more lovely!

Arriving in Strasboug brought back many memories. It was one of the first cities Joern and I visited when I first came to Germany. It was so fun to come back after so many years. I have changed so very much since that first visit to Strasbourg. One of the things I hadn't realized, or remembered, was the Germanness of this French city. Of course, as it was once part of Germany, it makes sense that it is very Germanish, but I didn't really remember just how German the city was. But it is only that German backdrop against the very French-ness of the city that makes it unique and very charming. The Christmas market itself is quite old and definately shows its German heritage. But, unlike Stuttgart's or Nurnberg's, the market is spread out all over the city. We started at the Marche des Bredle, or the Cookie Market. I am sure that before Christmas, the entire tent must be filled to the brim with Christmas cookies. We found a few stands in the tent still selling Christmas cookies, and a few tables of what appeared to be baked goods displayed from some sort of competition.

After the Marche des Bredle, we headed over towards the cathedral, which is the center of the center of Strasbourg.
Although it was a lot like German Christmas markets, we did both notice that there seemed to be more decoration and lights around the town. Not that the Christmas markets aren't beautiful here, its just that the markets here tend to count as decoration. But in Strasboug, there were beautiful lights everywhere!

It was also pretty clear that the French are bigger consumers than Germans. There were many, many more shopping possibilites, and each shop tried its hardest to look very appealing to the consumer. It was different, but very enjoyable.
We decided to stop in Fortwenger's Pain d'Epice Boutique, which was basically a bakery specializing in Lebküchen, or gingerbread. The shop was adorable and very full inside. There were a lot more items than just some gingerbread. We decided to buy some gingerbread beer and a few little trinkets to remind us of our awesome day!

From Fortwenger's, we continued on towards the center. Strasboug is such an adorable city!

Once we reached the main part of the center, we noticed the many restaurants with their adorable decorations. There was such a Christmassey atmosphere there! I also noticed, which I did not last time, that all the names of the restaturants were German.

The cathedral was, as always, quite impressive. But looked especially beautiful amongst all the decorations.

Since it was rather late, and because we are dog-sitting, we decided not to stay too long though at the Christmas market. We did stay long enough though to have a drink.
We opted out of the warm, spiced orange juice, although I am sure it is quite yummy.

We instead went with the old Christmas market standard: Vin Chaud or Glühwein (Mulled Wine.)

I am pretty sure that the Vin Chaud at the market was cut with some juice, because it was much sweeter than traditional Christmas market Glühwein, and well, it had no kick. Plus, I saw a lady pouring apple juice into a pot of Vin Chaud at one stall. Didn't matter, it was still warm and spicy. And despite it's being served in a plastic cup (I guess the French aren't into the deposit system like the Germans,) it was still quite enjoyable.

After our drink, we made our way back to the car. Joern wanted to go grocery shopping before we left. Plus, the grocery store is a part of a new shopping mall that recently opened almost right over the border in France. Much to my surprise, and happiness, it turns out the new mall has a Gap and a Sephora inside. Now, I am really close to some of my favorite stores. The grocery shopping was fun too. We were able to purchase some wonderful Camembert cheese, some salami for Joern, a few boxed soups that are so good, and a pre-made creme brulee that will be perfect for desert on New Year's Eve.

It was a really special and unique day. I love the fact that we live so close to France, and that we are able to take advantage of our location. I do believe that with the coming of the New Year, this probably will round out my Christmas 2010 posts. With that, I'll leave with a French greeting, and say, "Till December 2011,"

Sparking new travel dreams

2010-12-30T01:38:00.000-08:00

2011 is already off to a good start from my point of view. A new flight route is being added to Stuttgart.
As of April 1, Aer Lingus will now be flying out of Stuttgart to Dublin! By adding this flight route, we will now be able to quickly and easily travel to one of my fave countries- Ireland! Hooray!

A car ride on a snowy day

2010-12-29T01:53:00.000-08:00

Last week, we went to lunch with Joern's parents. We went to a restaurant in Kappishäusern, which is about a 20 minute ride from here. Kappishäusern is one of my favorite little towns around here, because the view is incredible.

Since we took separate cars, Joern and I were able to take the scenic route home. It was fantastic because everything was all snowy and beautiful. As we were riding along, I was looking at the scenery and noticed a furry large animal in the fields behind the trees. Being the nosy people that we are, Joern decided to turn around and check out what indeed was behind the trees. We drove down a little farm path, and then, came upon these delightfully adorable cows:

I went home and researched, it turns out they are Scottish Highland cattle. They are increasing in popularity because they are quite hardy, and can eat certain grasses that are intolerable to other cows. Of course, we just enjoyed them because they are really quite adorable.

Celebrating Christmas in Germany

2010-12-27T10:56:00.000-08:00

I admit, it was really weird, and sad not to be home for Christmas. I missed seeing my father, sister, stepmother, aunt, cousins, godparents. I missed all the festive Christmas visiting. I missed the Americanness of it all, Christmas lights, shopping, and home food. I'm even sad that we aren't home for the big blizzard of 2010.
I am so thankful to Joern for working really hard to help make my Christmas here very special.
On the 23rd, we headed out to buy a Christmas tree. We went back and forth about getting a tree, but in the end, I realized that one would be really special considering this will be our last Christmas in our apartment.
Afterwards, we headed down to Stuttgart, for the final day of the Christmas market. I am so happy we went, although we both realized that we don't spend enough time at Christmas markets. They are so lovely, and so special, and Stuttgart's is so close, there is no reason not to spend more time there.

Afterwards, Joern surprised me by taking me to the movies. We went to see Little Fockers. Yeah, it was a pretty light story, but provided some good laughs. Even better was that we went to see it at the Corso Kino in Vaihingen, which is an Original Version movie theater. This means it isn't only English movies, but all movies are played in their original version, even if it is French or Hindi. I just happen to be lucky that most of their films are in English.

When we got home from the movie, we decorated our tree. It was very important to me that it was finished by Christmas Eve. I was pretty impressed by how the tree came out. We used most of the ornaments that we bought eight years ago, when we last had a Christmas tree here. They aren't the best looking plastic ornaments, but with some silver beads and bows, and some white lights, the tree came out pretty nicely! Plus, we had a few ornaments from our travels here, and a few that had been given as gifts. One of my favorites is the Parma Proscuitto that was a magnet that seems best hanging on the tree. So we have an ornament from Baltimore, MD; Cape Cod, MA; and Parma, Italy. Very cool.

I do have a lot more ornaments that have already been packed away waiting for our new house. I can't wait to unpack my mom's old Christmas ornaments, as well as the rest of those picked up on our travels. They bring back such powerful memories.
On the 24th, we received some sad news, no one had bothered to get a Chistmas tree for Joern's grandma, nor had anyone given her cookies. Christmas cookies, or Plätzchen as they are called here (or Brotle /Gutsle in Swabian,) are a gigantic tradition here. I know that many Americans bake Christmas cookies at home, but it is a much bigger deal here. Joern's grandma used to make such yummy cookies, and I am sure that they are a really big part of Christmas for her. Both Joern and I were heartbroken at this thought, so we ran out and bought an artificial tree for Oma, so she will never not have a tree again. I also got to work making cookies. I made Vanilla Kipferl (like vanilla crescents,) checkerboard cookies, chocolate dipped, and coconut cookies. It felt so good to pack up a beautiful plate of cookies and deliver them to Oma! As my aunt said, maybe there really was a reason why we stayed in Germany this year.

For Christmas Eve dinner, Joern and I headed over to his parents' house. German traditional Christmas Eve dinner is sausages and salads. In Joern's family, it is a mixture of sausages, and "Spezial Salat", which we have since discovered is called Prussian Potato Salad. Which makes sense as Joern's father is from former Prussia.

After dinner, we decided to brave the snow that had been falling heavily all day, and took a ride. Since my car is meant to drive in the snow, we had no concern that this was a mistake. It was such a beautiful drive through the snowy, very silent roads and towns.

Urach

Town on the Swabian Alb

Neuffen Town Hall

Nürtingen

During our ride we stopped in Urach to take pictures of the adorable town center. We got there around 11:30 pm, and were so amazed that when we got out of the car to take pictures, we heard beautiful music. Some musicians were standing in the church tower playing Christmas carols so that it resounded over the town center. With the snow falling, the lights, and the music playing it was like magic!

We got home after midnight, as the heavy snowfall slowed down our driving. When we woke up on Christmas Day, it had pretty much stopped snowing. But here in Neckartailifingen, we got an easy 8 inches of snow. It was so pretty. I decided to make a breakfast that my mom used to make on Christmas day when I was a teenager. We were so sad when we realized she had misplaced the recipe. So, I was so excited to realize that I could Google the recipe. I made a sausage braid, that was so yummy!

Later in the day, I got ahold of my friend, Mandy. We had planned on meeting up with Mandy and her husband because we were going to dog-sit for their dog, Abbey. When I called Mandy, we ended up with a surprise invitation to Christmas dinner with mutual friends, Heidi and Julie. I could not believe how awesome it was to be invited to Heidi and Julie's for dinner. We ate at around 5. It was a fantastic group of people, Heidi and Julie and their son Aiden, Mandy and her husband Doug, and Mandy's brother and his wife. We had a great time and ate great food.
It was really a perfect ending to my first Christmas away from home.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night

2010-12-23T14:12:00.000-08:00

Before our big day tomorrow of putting up the Christmas tree, watching Christmas movies, and finally gorging ourselves on sausages, potato salad, and sweets, I just wanted to stop by and wish you a Merry Christmas from our home to yours.

I swear, I'm here! Christmas Market Edition

2010-12-23T00:50:00.000-08:00

I just realized that it has been almost a month since I've last posted. I think I have a reasonably good excuse, I've been sick. Somehow, I was blessed with a wonderful cold that is in its thrid week. I went to work, and we went about our daily activities, but I have been really wiped out.
Otherwise, things are going well here. I still have quite mixed feelings about not being home this Christmas.
I can't believe that I won't be home at all this Christmas. On the other hand, it is much less stressful not to travel. The weather for flying is abysmal, and many people have experienced huge delays and cancellations of their flights. Further, I am pretty certain that flying with this cold would be absolutely miserable. But, that doesn't change the fact that I miss my family.

In order to balance out my feelings, I have been trying to make the most of Germany at Christmas. Joern and I have been busy going to Christmas markets here, which isn't so easy when your feeling miserable. But I am determined enjoy it here this year. We have gone to downtown Stuttgart a few times after work. This is always my favorite time to go to the Christmas market in Stuttgart, because it is not so busy when we get there at 3:30, and by the time it starts to fill up, we are ready to leave. What has made it all the better of course is that we've been pretty much blanketed with snow for the past month. You can't get more Christmassey that this!

Last night, Joern and I headed to Esslingen, a medieval town in our area. Esslingen's Christmas market is so special and unique, not only because Esslingen is such a beautiful town, but also because they hold a medieval Christmas market. Of course what is fantastically cool about a medieval Christmas market in Germany is that, well, it is old anyway. You can really get the feel of what it must have been like back then at a market. The sights and smells of the market is so unique. It is really a special place.

Mmm, hot Met (Mead, honey wine)

Hemp seed pockets- so yummy!

There is only more day to enjoy a few, select Christmas markets here in Germany, and then it is time to say bye-bye for another year.

Grittibänz

2010-12-07T12:45:00.000-08:00

Its that time of the year again, the annual school buid-up to Christmas. December in our school is full of Christmas cheer. Yesterday was an especially exciting day.
It started first thing in the morning, when each child arrived to find a chocolate santa stuffed into their inside shoes that are kept at school. Chocolate in a shoe? Of course! Yesterday was December 6th, which is Nikolaustag. In many Germanic countries, Nikolaustag (or St. Nicholas Day) is celebrated on December 6th. Children place their shoes out in the hopes that St. Nicholas will bring them something special. It is always adorable to see our kids' faces light up when they find a special treat awaiting them at school. The overwhelming opinion yesterday was that Nicholas had a key to the school, and was thus able to easily enter the school and leave their chocolates.
We also had an assembly yesterday morning with Pre-K through Kindergarten, during which a special visitor arrived. Yup, St. Nicholas again. It was cute and totally fun.
But what was the coolest to me was the Grittibänz made by Pre-K yesterday.

Grittibänz are little man-like breads that come from Switzerland, and are meant to be eaten on December 6th. They seem to represent St. Nicholas. My friend Iris shared one of the two Grittibänze she made with me. I was so happy to learn about yet another cool Christmastime tradition from another country.

In the upcoming days, we are looking forward to a Santa Lucia celebration, as well as a Christmas party and some other festivities. It is so fun to share these traditions with our children at school!

Thinking of you, Mom

2010-11-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

It seems hard to believe that two years ago, I said "goodbye" to you, Mom. Two years ago, we had just been discussing you moving here to Germany. I remember how excited you were when Joern and I discussed that it would be best if you would move here. And that was our last conversation. Its amazing to me how much I miss you. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you, and I still miss your daily phone calls. I went through a really tough time a few weeks ago, and often thought of how badly I wanted to talk to you. Some days, I still struggle with the unfairness of it all, but I know that you are with Jerry, and I know that you are happy.
Please don't worry about me, Mom. I am fine. I know you were watching over me while I had my surgery, thank you for looking out for me.
I love you and miss you.
Allison

A full day in Dublin

2010-11-10T11:43:00.000-08:00

Surprisingly, it seemed like we had jet lag when we arrived in Dublin. Obviously we didn't, but with the hour time difference, and the fact that winter-time started the day we left for Ireland, Joern and I found ourselves wide awake at 6 am on Monday morning. Annoyed that we couldn't sleep longer, we were able to get out pretty early on Monday morning. We had no real plans for the day, which was good. We just wound our way around the streets of Dublin, and had a fantastic day!
Since we were so close to the River Liffey, it was our first "stop" on our tour for the day.

Then, it was over to explore Temple Bar a little deeper than we did the night before.

And then, we made our way towards Lower Mount Street, the location of my old school and my old dorm.
On the way there, we passed the Department of the Taoiseach, or the headquarters of the Irish government. It brought back so many good memories, as I passed by this building quite often.

As we got to the corner of Merrion Square and Lower Mount, I was immediately happy and sad at the same time, my old school, American College Dublin has been renamed Irish American University.

As we walked further down the street, the economic crisis that has taken hold of Ireland really hit me. Almost all of the buildings lining the street where I used to live were for sale or for rent. When I lived in Dublin ten years ago, the country was still in an economic boom. It was almost impossible to find housing in Dublin, despite the fact that real estate had risen 300% between 1990 and 2000. It was sad to finally see that the country is indeed in crisis.

Only a few fronts down from my old dorm, my old pub Oil Can Harry's, seemed like a great place for lunch.

After a yummy lunch of seafood chowder for me, and fish and chips for Joern, and of course, a pint of Blumer's, we headed out to Guinness. It turns out that Guinness is a long walk from Merrion Square, but it was definately an enjoyable walk.

Some sights along the way:

A pub preparing for another night

Dublin Town Hall


Christ Church

Once we finally arrived at the Guiness Storehouse, we had to make a few obligatory photos outside.

The Guinness Storehouse is open to visitors, not the brewery itself. But the Storehouse has undergone a huge rennovation in the past few years, which has resulted in an awesome visitor's center. It was such a huge change since I was there ten years ago. The old storehouse, while having a more authentic feel, was really unimpressive. The new one was so cool!

The new storehouse consists of seven floors. On the entry level, you receive a brief introduction to the beer and the brand, and see a copy of the 9,000 year lease Arthur Guiness signed with the city of Dublin for the land for the brewery.

The first floor is devoted to the product, Guinness. I firmly believe the Guinness is a marketing wonder, so the product is not the only reason it is such a good selling beer, but a large portion of the brand.

The second floor is devoted to the history of Guiness. And the third floor looks at the marketing of the brand. We skipped the fourth floor, and stopped on the fifth floor to look at the exhibit of John Gilroy's advertisements, which have become icons.

The coolest though was the Gravity Bar on the seventh floor of the building. For this Dublin lover, there is really nothing more exciting than sitting in a glass surrounded bar, drinking a Guinness, looking down onto the city I love below.

Exhausted, we headed back towards the hotel at around 6:30. We were able to stop for Joern's favorite meal in Ireland, fish and chips, before turning in for the night. I'm pretty sure we were asleep by 8:00. It was a fantastic and tiring day!

Our first day in Dublin

2010-11-09T11:45:00.000-08:00

We landed in Dublin on Sunday at 11:30 am. Since we planned on staying in Dublin for the first two days of our trip, Joern decided against picking up a rental car immediately. So, we used AirCoach to get from the airport to the O'Connell Street stop, which worked out very well, as the drop-off point was two blocks from our hotel. First stop in Dublin was the awesome Wynn's Hotel, to check in. The hotel was wonderful, dating back to the 1800s, the hotel is very turn-of-the-century, with lots of dark wood and beautiful wood trim.

Since we were a bit early for check-in, reception offered to hold our bags for us while we went out for lunch. I was really hoping for a great pub lunch, but Joern was much more excited about finiding a fish and chips place up the street from our hotel. We walked one block down from the hotel, to the River Liffey, and up another block. It was so fantastic just to soak up all the wonderfulness of being back in Dublin.

Some sights near our hotel, O'Connell Street, statue of Sir John Gray, the Bachelor Inn, Ha'Penny Bridge, the Spire of Dublin, and the General Post Office (GPO)

After our yummy lunch,

we headed back to the hotel for a bit.

Before dinner, we stopped off at the very cool Saints and Scholars Bar at the hotel for a pint.

Without laughing, dinner was at TGI Friday's at St. Stephen's Green. Although not authentically Irish, Joern and I were both looking forward to a good taste of America. After indulging in some Blumer's cider and some buffalo wings, we headed in for the night. It was a fantastic beginning to a fantastic trip!

The trip to the west coast

2010-11-03T04:29:00.000-07:00

It is so comfortable to be on a trip and to sit in someone's house, watch TV and blog. Yay!
Yesterday, we braved the pouring rain, and walked out to pick up our rental car. Along the hour walk, we decided to stop in Dublinia, a very unique Dublin history museum. It covers the Viking founding of the city through the 19th century. Although I've been there before, I still found it interesting.
Afterwards, we stopped at Hertz, and picked up our Ford KA, to head out to the west coast. Of course, we had to stop back by the hotel to pick up our luggage, which turned into an adventure, since it was Joern's first time driving in Ireland. Aside from driving in a few bus only lanes, he did really well!
On our way to the motorway, we found a toy store, and decided to stop in- since Joern and his parents import toys, he is always interested in visiting toy stores in other countries. The toy store was located near the Church, which is a restaurant, bar, and nightclub located in a former church. My friend Carol had given me the tip to go to the Church while we were in Dublin. Wow, it was so cool! The building is so huge, and beautiful inside. The way it has been converted is so cool, we really enjoyed our lunch there.
We left Dublin at 3:00, and the ride out to the west took about 2 hours. It was pretty windy and rainy, but the drive wasn't bad at all. Now, we are staying in Athenry, with Joern's cousin Marc, and his wife, Elli. Their house is lovely, and Athenry is an adorable town, about a 15 minute drive outside of Galway. Dinner was great last night- Supermac's, a burger joint. Yummy!
So far, the trip has been great. And like I said at the beginning, it is so comfy to stay with friends when you're on a trip. It totally changes your experience! I'm excited to see what the next few days bring with them.

Waving hello from Dublin!

2010-11-01T12:37:00.000-07:00

Its Monday night, and I'm sad that one full day in Ireland is already over. We've had a great trip so far!
We flew Lufthansa out of Frankfurt yesterday at 10:35. Flight was great and totally uneventful, which is the best kind of flight. It was a little sad that I honestly couldn't remember the Dublin airport, but flying in did bring back tons of memories, like flying into Dublin for the first time, with no idea what lie ahead. Wow.
After landing, we took an Air Coach into the city, and got off on O'Connell Street, about two blocks up the street from our hotel. It was so fun and so exciting to walk down O'Connell Street again.
Our hotel, Wynn's Hotel, is fabulous! It is so old and has that classic turn-of the century feel. Plus,we're really in the city center. And there is a LUAS stop (the new, and lovely tram system,) right outside of the hotel. It isn't bothersome at all.
Yesterday was pretty quiet. We enjoyed fish and chips for lunch, and then took a rest. Before heading out for dinner, we stopped off for a pint in the hotel bar, which is so cool. Dinner was at TGI Friday's (wahoo!) at St. Stephen's Green.
This morning, we made our way to the center again, in the rain, and headed towards my old school and my old dorm. It was so exciting the way the streets and areas came back to me, and poor Joern, got lots of stories. It was sad to find out my school was renamed the Irish American University, instead of American College Dublin. And the International Student Dormitory is gone. Actually, most of the block of apartments where I lived are all for rent. Made me a little sad to see just how strongly the city has been impacted by the economy.
To make myself feel better, we headed into Oil Can Harry's, the pub that was our old hangout. They had a pretty good lunch crowd. I enjoyed a half pint of Bulmers and had some yummy fish chowder. Joern enjoyed some fish and chips and a Smithwicks. Joern is sadly still on the hunt here for a beer he likes.
After a great time at the "Can" we walked to the Guiness Storehouse. It was so different from their museum that I visited last time I was here. But really cool. I loved the Gravity Bar, the totally glass enclosed bar on their 7th floor.
I think we're headed to the Temple Bar area tonight for some good music and good Craic.
So far, so good. Tomorrow, we're off to Galway!

Trip Planning

2010-10-21T02:28:00.000-07:00

I've been keeping myself relatively busy lately by planning our next trip. I love planning trips, almost to the point of it being a little crazy. Having grown up in America, I used to be a proud travel crammer. I would pour through travel guides, not reading the history, but instead look for the most important sites to see. We were the classical wake up at 6 am, pack in a day, and pass out at 10 pm family. For me, travel was all about the destination, get there, see everything, and go home.
When I met Joern, my view of travel was completely rocked. During our first week together, one night, Joern said, "I want to go somewhere special tomorrow, so we'll need to leave at 4 am." Obviously, he knew our destination, but that was about it. Imagine my surprise when we drove over a bridge to the parking garage in Venice! I was thrilled and upset at the same time. I hadn't done any research beforehand. I didn't know what I had to see. It was so strange. Instead of having an itinerary, we parked the car, and walked around. We stopped for a few cappuccinos along the way, talked, and watched people. It was then I learned that Joern's version of travel is not to see all the sites, but to slow down, drink a cappuccino and watch life happen. For Joern, the travel is all about the journey. Joern most definately prefers to drive everywhere, because for him, half of the enjoyment is the things you see on the way to your destination.
Over the years, we have found ourselves a merry medium. We drive to most places, and if not, we rent a car as soon as we arrive. I still research, making a list of places that I really want to see, and then realize that we might not get to see everything on my list, and its okay. If I die before seeing Michangelo's Statue of David its really okay, because at least I have been to Florence and experienced the people, the food, and the life there, which allowed me to take away a lot more than just rushing to one museum to look at one piece of art.
In preparation for our next trip, I have tried again to achieve a balance. We're off to Ireland, which makes me so happy. Ireland is the one part of my life that up until now, I haven't been able to share with Joern. So, we've booked our flight, hotel in Dublin, and surprisingly, we will not even rent a car for our first two days in Dublin. I know that I want to show Joern where I lived, where I went to school, and our pub. I have one place that I would really like to get to, the Kilmainham Gaol, although it has a rather grim history, it also serves as a historical reminder of Ireland's past. Oh, and I'd like to eat in, shame on us, TGI Friday's. On the third day of our trip, we will head back to the airport to pick up our rental car, for the relatively unplanned portion of our trip. Our ultimate goal is to get to the west of Ireland to visit Joern's cousin and his wife. I'm reviewing a little historical information too. Otherwise, I am just going to let the trip take us. I've learned to appreciate the fantastic memories created by turning off the main road, or avoiding the tourist attractions.
I am so looking forward to this upcoming trip, and already am looking forward to writing all about it!

All By Myself

2010-10-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

Despite all the weird things that go on in my life, I have to say that I am a pretty spoiled girl. Appealing to my only child sensibilities, I love the fact that Joern rarely has to travel for business. Since we've been together such a long time now, I have developed a pretty happy routine at home, and Joern is almost always here at night. Probably because I have never lived alone, I am not used to the times when Joern isn't here. Well, I bet by now you can guess where this post is headed. Yup, Joern is in Hong Kong for a few days. I'm glad, he'll already be home on Sunday, so we're down two days, and have 3 more to go.

This trip comes at a time which I wouldn't say is the best. I'm still home from work, but at least I am finally feeling better. So, I figured that one thing that I can do to help pass the time is by cooking foods that I love, that Joern won't really eat. :)

Last night, I had the most delicious piece of salmon, cooked in a garlic white wine sauce. Amazing!

Tonight, shrimp stir-fry with brown rice. Delish!

Tomorrow is a goat cheese salad.

Dinner certainly doesn't take the place of Joern, but I certainly have to say that my dinners are adding a little luxury to my being alone.

October 15

2010-10-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

Today is a day I never thought I would be able to claim as my own. Sadly, here I am.
Today is October 15, and it is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Rememberance Day.

Eight days ago today was the most terrifying day of my life. This October 15th, my body is healing, and I think my emotions are healing too. I think the biggest emotion I have towards the experience is fear. Right now, Joern and I both talk about the loss of the baby, and the sadness involved. But, when we get to talking about hopes for the future, they are riddled with fear. What if it happens again? The thought of going through the same thing is horrible. I know the doctors said that my right tube is healthy, but there is still a possibility of this happening again. I know that more than anything I want to be a mom, and I'm pretty sure Joern feels the same way, but I am not ready yet emotionally. I'm hoping with time that things will change, that our fear will turn into hope and strength.

I am so sorry for all the other women who have gone through this. I am sorry for all the husbands who have had to stand by helplessly through the tears, the pain, and the fear. I have hope for all who have suffered losses that you too will one day be a parent. I have hope for myself too, just not quite yet.

Small town, Germany

2010-10-12T02:37:00.000-07:00

I don't often talk about Neckartailfingen here. I don't know why, its my second home. After almost 9 years here, I fully embrace two homes. I am from Fairfield. I love Fairfield. I go there to recharge my batteries, relive memories, and remind myself of my roots. Fairfield is the beach, old America, a family-centric suburban large town, that is slightly snobby. I live in Neckartailfingen. I love Neckartailfingen. I laugh at Neckartailfingen. Neckartailfingen is my present and some of my future. Neckartailfingen is farming country, with a view of the mountains, most characteristically to me though, small town.
Having grown up in Fairfield, my normal was a city sized town. As of 2005, Fairfield had 57,813 residents spread over an area of 30 square miles (77.8 square kilometers.) Fairfield is big. If you asked me to name all the neighborhoods in Fairfield, I couldn't. There is Southport, Greenfield Hill, Tunxis Hill, the Project (embarassing that we call it that, I know,) Beach Road, Sherman, Jennings district, Stratfield, Sasco, Fairfield Center, the area around Fairfield U, Holland Hill. I'm sure there are more. I was used to a town center that included two town halls, a town green, as well as a rather long shopping street. There were a few prominent familes in the town, but most often, people got to know each other based on the neighborhood, most often based on schools. I would bet that most Fairfielders don't know each other. I was one of th most well-known in the school circle, because my mom was a secretary in the Board of Education, so many town politicians, and most teachers knew my mom. I was Kathy's daughter, and I was a bit of a well-known. This was my normal.
I have now moved to Neckartailfingen, population 3.777 spread over 3.6 square miles (8.3 square kilometers.) My small college had a larger student population. There are threeneighborhoods in Neckartailfingen, the Neubaugbeit (the new built area, homes from the late 1990s on,) the Vorstadt (the Outskirts,) , and our future neighborhood, the most oddly named, the Flecken (the Stain.) There are a few prominent families, and everyone is related to at least one of them. Everyone in Neckartailfingen knows everyone else. I am a well-known here too. Here, I am the American married to Joern. I am exotic here. Although everyone who lives here has relatives in America, there are only about 3 Americans in the town married to Neckartailfingers. We are a unique breed here. This is Joern's normal, and so very far away from my normal.
I often giggle about the small town life here. Most people living here have never lived anywhere else, for generations. The Stueckle family, Joern's maternal grandfather, is one of the oldest families in Neckartailfingen. I don't mean oldest like 3 generations, I mean oldest like forever. But, I guess they were a bit rebellious, the Stueckle's. Joern's grandfather already rocked the town by marrying Joern's grandmother, a farmer girl from Wittlingen on the Swabian Alb (the mountains in our area.) Joern's mother continued the break in tradition when she married my father-in-law, who was as a child, a refugee whose mother escaped Russian-occupied Poland, with her children, after the war. Joern went one step further and married someone from another country, even another continent. This is not how it works here. But, I guess it sure makes for juicy gossip.
Juicy gossip is serious stuff here in Neckartailfingen. I've had to learn to laugh at it, or I would be annoyed, afterall, the entire town is talking about us.
Here are a few examples of the juicy gossip flying around us in recent days.
The latest news going around the regular's table at the sport club is that my father-in-law used our building crane to remove one of the plum trees bordering our property.
The town doctor heard that Joern and I are building a gigantic house. She cornered my mother-in-law last week to ask all about the plans for our house, most probably because we have taken a bit of the spotlight away from her house.
And my favorite, Joern's great-aunt, who we haven't spoken with in a few years, walked up to Joern the other day and said, "I heard your wife got furniture from America, and that it came in a container the size of a truck!"

Obviously, in this small town, we're big news. I think it is so funny, albeit, a bit disturbing. We have no private life. Of course, neither does anyone else in Neckartaifingen!

One day, we'll have children, who will grow up betwen our two normals. I find it so interesting.

Ready to put this all behind us

2010-10-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

Today was my first full day home from the hospital. All it takes is a good health scare to realize how good life is, and a few nights in the hospital to make you appreciative of your tiny apartment.

I had to have surgery on Thursday to remove not only an ectopic pregnancy, but also to remove the entire tube in which the pregnancy was located. Although I was quite impressed with the level of care I received at the hospital, including the fact that despite being insured through the compulsory insurance I was able to stay in a private room and Joern was allowed to stay with me, I am so happy to be home.

I am trying really hard to take it easy, and let it go. My belly button hurts like mad and the one vein in my left arm that gives blood is on strike. I have this week off from work again, and am hoping to use it to catch up on some reading and maybe some scrapbooking. I am just going to try really hard to look to the future.
Joern has been so incredible through this all, and helped ease the horror of the past few weeks. I hope to help him put this all behind him too.

Being at home really helps. We're talking a lot about the future, next week, next month, and next year. Right now, we're not really discussing the past.

I hope to thank every person who has showed kindness to us during this difficult time. I am so thankful to everyone!

The fun of living in southern Germany

2010-10-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you readers for your kind comments on yesterday's post, and thank you to all those who have emailed me separately. Having kind people in your life really helps to ease the pain in difficult times. Your kind words and thoughts will most certainly not be forgotten!

I am feeling better today, my cramping is pretty much gone. So, Joern and I headed out to an electronics store to purchase a new refrigerator for our apartment. Ours has been on its way out for a few months, and we felt like today was just the time to buy a new one.

What made me smile the most today, was the tractor that pulled alongside of us:

Yup, that's a tractor filled with cabbage! And no, we're not in the middle of a farm, this is across the street from the Stuttgart airport! I love Germany!