Heard of Murphy's Law? Here's the Rule of Essie

It's new year's eve in Germany, as I post this, but because my computer still thinks it's in the States, it's not.
Go figure...

I am supposed to go to a job interview this morning-on new year's eve-
a Kindergarten job interview.
Automatically you think: "Woohoo for Es!"
Not so fast.

I've had a bad cold since we got out of school last week.
I'e tried to deal with the sore throat and nasal nasty without the use of serious medication...call me crazy, but after my nightmare experience last Spring at the hands of military doctors,in the US, I'm a teeny tiny gunshy!

** Digressing slightly: There's no telling what could happen to me here, and, um...even though we do have a medical facility on another post (which IS where I'm making Team Leader take me first), I've heard plenty of stories about people who have ended up getting medical help on the economy. Have I mentioned previously that my German is limited to getting me out of JAIL and ordering kaffe und kutchen?!! This could be an interesting start to the new year wouldn't you say?! **

Back to topic: SO, in an effort to stave off the Avian Flu or MRSA or whatever the h**l is trying to infect my body I've made hot toddies, eaten more oranges than I thought humanly possible, stayed hydrated, forced myself to eat chicken soup, drunk my way through 2 -not one, TWO- bottles of pediatric Triaminic Night Time Cough and Cold, ONLY to wake this morning

THE DAY OF THE INTERVIEW

to wake, to BOTH of my eyes fused shut.

seriously. They were shut.
I stumbled into the bathroom and managed to wipe my eyes OPEN with a water compress. Have you ever had to do that...stumble through a hallway as your cell phone alarm rings it's little bastard head off to wake your sorry butt up?
Not so fun.
(At least I didn't hit my shins or anything-wow-that wouold have really ticked me off.)

Back to the eyes; are they itchy, no.
Do I think its Pink Eye, no.
Have I any proof that it ISN'T Pink Eye, no.

Am I flippen pissed?!!
YES

Seriously...IS this my life?!
Fingers crossed this principal is going to understand and not think I'm blowing her off b/c it's new years eve. If only I could go back to yesterday, the 30th, and go to the Doctor, saving me the stress and worry that I'm avoiding right now by typing this post.

UGH @$%%!!!&###@!!!!

I think it's time to go to my "Quiet Happy Place."
back later

We love Santa

For lots and lots of reasons, we do, love Santa.
I'll post photos of the paper carnage later; I had to change the video code, as it made me cry to open up my blog!

This update is courtesy of the flashbacks that THIS EXCELLENT choice (made by the Big Man in Red for Momma and Dad) gave us!

Lana-I can shut my eyes and recall listening to Thriller in your BASEMENT-

Was it really that long ago?!
enjoy all!

umarmen und lieben
e

Fröhliche Weihnachten, Everyone!!

I had to change the music-Norah, forgive me-maybe you'll like dancing to this...give it about 40 seconds and I promise it will "lighten up" and you will be abble to baby bounce your way around Momma and Daddy's office!

(This isn't meant to be a downer post-)For some reason, this song made me think about growing up in Alaska. It reminded me of Toblerone chocolate bars, those crazy dark chocolate ORANGE flavored things we'd get in our stockings (um, those were actually not so yummy Mom, and I'm sure it explains why I don't like fruit flavored chocolate), and icicles that were over 2 feet long. Growing up in Alaska was the best thing my parents could have ever given my brothers and I. We were far away from people we loved, and people who loved us, but we always had the original 5. (Okay, it was REALLY the Original 3 but for today I'll let you 2 boys in the club!)It meant that we had to rely on one another "FAMILY LOYALTY" and "QE2 behavior" became things we had to incorporate into our daily lives; some days we were really good at it, most other days, not so much! What growing up in Alaska did give us was a sense of how large the world really was, and, what opportunites were available to us if we wanted them.

Not so different from what Team Leader and I have done by bringing our family to Germany. Funny.

During the holidays it's natural to think about special times behind us, and, look forward to sharing adventures before us. 2007 has been full of many surprises for our family, and I can only imagine what 2008 has in store, regardless you are all only as far away as a heartbeat...

I'll post photos before bedtime!
umarmen und lieben
essie

p.s. you have to play the video-it's not looping-ergh!
pp.s Thank you Mausi!! You know I'm still trying to figure this language thing out!!
I hope you had a happy holiday!!

Santa..FIRST sighting!

We're six hours ahead and have been baking cookies all afternoon for Santa and the reindeer. Mr. Ben has written a special letter JUST for Rudolph, and a "Christmas Eve" candle is burning as I type.

Our cards aren't 100% in the mail yet, but they'll all get to you, we promise!
For now, enjoy this update and check out the NORAD site with your own little elves-it's worth it~

umarmen und lieben,
(Frohe Weinachten!)
essie

"Mr. Ben has a Birthday in Germany!"

Yesterday was his big day, and celebrate we did...Beginning in the early hours of the morn when Ben came into our room to "wakey wakey" and get a serious move on the day! From there he managed to rouse his older siblings to get his paws on THIS: a special delivery birthday box Next came a hysterical viewing of Alvin and The Chipmunks, and YES, the kids are ALL sitting in the FRONT ROW of the theatre We ended the "never ending party" with fuN, fUN, FUN at the bowling alley.
Ben had a great day, which was all we wanted for him.

While he missed you all like crazy-cakes, his philosophy on overseas birthdays made absolute sense to me:
Ben lived and learned that your birthday can be anywhere...
the people who love you, just because they can't be where you are-it doesn't mean that they don't still love you, it just means that in the big scheme of things, they couldn't make it.

How perfect IS the mind of an eight year old?!
How much more could we love him?!

Our "baby" forever, but now, Ben is very much our "Big Guy" and the Harrisons...
we just got a little older and a whole lot smarter!

2 days until the big guy arrives-ho ho ho!
umarmen und lieben
essie

Quiet Morning

It's 6:36 am and currently I'm the only one up-I was on the phone 7 hours ago, Skyping away with my family over the thrilling beginning of trips to the post office and all the boxes that simultaneously made their way from VA to DE and DE to VA!

Serendipity IS a funny thing.

Everyone sounds good, although my youngest brother (Brother 2)is convinced that all of the food products we sent secretly have pork products in them! A huge conspiracy to throw him off of his Kosher eating habit, no doubt! :)We did manage to bully him into eating some choco-duo spread, which WE know he will learn to love-QUICKLY-thanks to a sweet tooth that has never let him down. My Dad immediately went for practically everything, launching my other little brother (Brother 1)into hysterical but outrageous comments about Daddy's not so small girth. Daddy lunged for (my favorite) "stroop wafels" while Brother 1 went for wasabi peas. Mom went for the new seasonal Ritter chocolates in rotwein and weiswein (red and white wine) truffel.

Some things don't change no matter HOW far away you are.

I loved talking to them, and listening as they opened box after box, our boxes from them were opened and presents were put under the tree. Mr. Ben started counting and sorting; his big brother and sister joined him, and watched the pile begin to grow.

It's a quiet morning in Germany, and across a very large pond is a family full of night owls, who I'm certain are still talking about our phone call, laughing about our phone call, and eating their way through an early Christmas.

It's a quiet morning in Heidelberg, and on this side of the pond there is a family wrestling the warm covers off tired little bodies, waking to the memories of voices that love them. Voices who declare EVERY YEAR that it won't be a huge holiday, just nice, and somehow manage to turn "just nice" into so much more...

We love and miss you and hope you have a beautifully quiet morning-
umarmen und lieben,
Essie
ps...photos from Kriskindle Markts in Ladenburg and Schwietzingen below, not perfect snaps as there are a zillion people at these things, but I'll try to get more uploaded for you to see why

wow.

Who would have ever thought that our family would celebrate Hannukah in GERMANY?

seriously.

While it wasn't the Hannukah that we know and are familiar with, thanks in great part to our family and friends who share the festival of light with us, it was Hannukah.

Our Hannukah.

Our new Hannukah...complete with new Hannukah traditions, like "First Night, First Pizza!"

We had 8 complete days and 8 complete nights celebrating and continuing our family traditions with new friends who, like many of you, didn't know what it was all about before hand. Though we might not be with you all in person, the spirit of Hannukah that we shared with you all at home (and now abroad) reflects the spirit of all holidays celebrated this season.
Love, peace, and comfort to you all.

I get goosebumps just saying it out loud:
"Hannukah in Germany."
a milestone-

now it's onto Christmas
umarmen und lieben,
essie

Okay...because I'm equal opportunity esther....

this is for my favorite NON sleeper, Little Miss NORAH!

Who happens to be very interested in being a pet owner ONE DAY when her parents get brave! She's a little girl who LOVES animals and really shouldn't be denied, if you ask my opinion! She loves to dance, and really likes any music that will get that baby bootie shakin!
Hence, the Crazy Frog, who will stay on blogger...
She's a peach, a cutie patootie, a sweetpea and a "Honey of an O!"
Her mom is one of my dearest friends, who, I miss like crazy. Today's post is a surprise for them!

I miss you lots and lots Skaries!!
umarmen und lieben
Harrison

Live well, laugh often, love much.

Over here in Germany, I've quickly learned how to "live well."
I didn't take much, just a trans-atlantic time difference, and some cultural things to acclimate to, but it wasn't that tough.
"Laughing often"... not so tough either, particularly when you've got friends who post photos like this for you to crack up over!


"Loving much..." hmmm...it's the one that gets me every time.
I do.
I love much, and sometimes I feel like I'm going to burst as consequence.
I love my family much.
I love my friends much.
I love my friends families much.
That's a whole lot of love.
And...with all the love of people and things, I had to post today that I just love this babyHe doesn't know me the way I'd like for him to-distance is a stink of a dictator...

He and his parents celebrated some pretty tremendous milestones last month.
They are fabulously terrific people who deserve a lifetime of loving this baby.
You know what, they get that, they get to live, love, and laugh with him.
They will get to live with him through his challenges and his triumphs.
They will get to love him when he is sleeping (no pun there La)looking and thinking "wow."
They will get to laugh in new discovery with him.
They get HIM.
And he...he gets them!

I don't know who to thank for their tremendous gift, all I can do is say thank you, and then send all my hugs and love long distance to the three of them.
Congratulations Angels!
"Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much!"

umarmen und lieben
E

Best phone call-holy mess-answer to a prayer, maybe, yes!

Oh my heart!
I am a person who has met and made some wonderful, amazing, and simply fabulous friends.
I know how lucky I am.
Some people are fortunate enough to have one person to count on, I've got more than my fair share-I know how lucky I am.

I miss you girls...boy, do I miss you!
Our little posse of 12, we were great.

I know that getting to Rockfish was nothing short of a miracle, but what happened next...well, it was a once in a lifetime year.

This little video is for all of you...however...comma...you have pause the Crazy Dancing frog before you listen to Celine, because (like all the brainiacs in Room 13trying to turn ON the speaker phone,) I don't know how to make this work any other way!

BTW: Vaughn, Carter, PULEEZE-get your mess together and get on Skype so we can conference call with Rockfish!!

Mulvey, you can tease me for the Celine song later-remember, I've got your back WTF, OVER! And, for the record, I'm not taking the Crazy Frog off because Norah likes dancing to it, and what Norah likes, Norah gets!

(Besides, she's waking Skarie up at "o-dark-thirty" and they need something to keep the momentum going!)



umarmen und lieben,
Harrison
ps-Watkins, you are SOO SOO right...after the hour we were on the phone, Skarie's kids would have spent all that time coloring...hee hee!

Holy Mess! We have internet!

wow-it feels like FOREVER since I was able to log on AT HOME!
Success in another area...I found my Kodak Easy Share disc!!
Pictures have been downloaded and voila! there will be photos for the whole wide world to view! (ps-remember some of us have been under the weather, so subjects may look like c.r.a.p. thank you!)
Still more success, as we have managed to purge our home of the nasty sickness that had contaminated our quarters for far too long...just in time for the Christmas Markts to begin, begin, BEGIN.

The tree is up, I'm finishing up our new stockings as we type, (the family stockings were left in the states, just in case)and I actually have some gift boxes ready to be mailed. Thanksgiving was nice, different, but pleasant. The weather cooperated and on Saturday we enjoyed a day pricing gifts for the kids on the Hauptstrasse. Merchants were putting up their holiday market cabin stalls, and roasted chestnuts were wafting through the air...it's definitely beginning to feel like Christmas.

ho ho ho,
umarmen und lieben,
essie

ugh

our internet is down.
i'm still sick.
i'm tired.
the library computer won't let me onto my flippen blog.
it's ticking me off.
ugh...

BUT

it's friday!
it's friday!
it's really, really friday!
(that's for Turnie...Rahn...Traci Cope...and a few others who i used to Happy Friday Dance my pants off with!)

umarmen und lieben
essie

Is it just me?!

**disclaimer: I'm sick. Headache, body ache, entire face pains me when I sneeze, SICK. It's a long weekend and instead of doing anything fun, I've spent it inside, feeling like c-r-a-p! I'm grumpy and tired of my family, who can't do anything right around me. I need a 100% attitude adjustment and I know it-consider yourself warned and proceed with caution!**

Right now Team Leader and our neighbor are watching Green Street Hooligans...a movie that Elijah Woods made, I dunno why...he just did.

This movie is about British Football Gangs...the self proclaimed "Hooligans" who (for some cro-magnon reason) are SO devoted to their local football teams that they will actually KILL people over won and lost matches. While this is a fictitious account of a real situation, football gangs have been a thread woven into the fabric of hardcore sports fans for as long as I've been alive-forever for all I know. What I don't understand is why!

Why is a won or lost match worth beating someone into a pulp?
Why does society condone the behavior?
If it isn't being condoned, then why is it accepted?

And why do people need to make movies about this stuff, and sound over the beatings with beautiful local music, is it to make a dramatic point, or is it creative license?

Why do guys like watching this?! Honestly!!
It's shit. I HATE IT.
I hate thinking that people are so simple that they will live and DIE over a sporting match. Literally.

WTF!!!

No one can change my mind in thinking that if more women were in charge that the world mightn't be as violent...You can call me naive, but women make hard decisions every day, and if I hear ONE MORE TIME that a woman couldn't be president or hold high political office because she couldn't make the "hard calls" I WILL SCREAM!
It's a weak excuse that feeble minded pundits have declared to justify the political machines that send young soldiers into war again and again and again.

Yup. This is what happens when Team Leader puts a movie on that pisses me off.
I start out with a rant about the movie and suddenly I'm furious about the state of the world, and ready to imply that the state of the world rests squarely on the shoulders of all the dummies currently in charge (that would be the guys).

BTW, speaking of young soldiers, in our local newspaper there was a campaign for wounded soldiers and their haircuts. Specifically, if we (patrons at the commissary) purchased a brand name of products, the product company would donate a percentage of the product price to WOUNDED SOLDIERS WHO HAVE TO PAY FOR THEIR HAIRCUTS!
WHAT?!
Read this again: these soldiers have come back from war...they are wounded (any type of wounded, mind you)...and adding insult to injury HAVE TO PAY FOR HAIRCUTS!

Some of these kids are missing arms, legs, BOTH, some have traumatic brain injury-WHATEVER! The military is making them pay for their own haircuts?! Don't you think they have bigger things to worry about...like rehabilitation, perhaps? And how much would it cost the country to bone up for these required haircuts? (They are required, that was also mentioned in the campaign.) Honestly.

That, in my opinion, is more shit...so folks, I guess it is just me tonight...crazy, pissed off, annoyed, sick as a DOG, ME.

Next time, I'M picking the movie.

It's a rainy day Wednesday in Heidelberg

just thought I'd post a little post...no startling insights today.
I spent a gaggle of geese sending two boxes to florida.
I really wish I could just send a gift card, but I can't...no, I can't.
I'm definitely a "presents are fabulous" kind of girl.
I love shopping for fun things that will make folks smile.
At least, I hope they smile, no one has ever told me they didn't like my gift choice-maybe people are too polite.
hmmm...
anyhoo, it's been fun "window" shopping, "actual" shopping, and "internet" shopping!
I got these http://www.uncommongoods.com/item/item.jsp?itemId=15897 for our dining room wall-a big boring wall that is about to be painted a soft shade of chocolate brown (oh yes it is!) that I hope will highlight the cards when they go up!


I'm DYING for all the Christmas Markts to start up...my ornament fetish is starting to show...and while I don't want to rush the holidays, (I really do want to linger and enjoy, really I do) there is something very familiar about the hustle and bustle holiday shopping creates.
hmmm...
looks like I did have something to say afterall :)

umarmen und lieben,
essie

Happy 5th Birthday to the greatest Niece IN THE WORLD! We love you Ellie-Belle!

It feels like we've hardly been in Germany at all, but when I write it down "from August to November" I realize that we've actually been here now for 12 weeks!

WOW!

Halloween was fun; interesting and different, but fun nonetheless. We did miss our "usual crew" of partners in crime, be them in NC or VA, we thought and spoke of you all and hoped your night was fun-filled as well.
In Germany, we had: One MIA (missing in action) teenager, one CB (chasing boys) jester, and one Harry Potter from Task 1 of the Tri-Wizard Tournament. We also had two country-bumpkins and a candy passing Momma involved in our Halloween Adventure. Due to construction no one could door-to-door trick or treat at our house, so I brought our "Scarrisons" candy pail with us and gave candy out to all the little kiddos we saw. There was a Halloween Fest (Germans LOVE their fests, folks!)on Post which was nice, and WARM!

(Yup, it was chilly, no foolin'!)

At one point Team Leader looked at me and said
"Um...we're actually trick or treating in GERMANY!"

Crazy, and true, yes we are, honey!
Happy Fall, Ya'll!
umarmen und lieben!!
essie

ps-Biggest Hugs and payment help go to Vaughn who called me on my GERMAN CELL PHONE last night and had me crying happy friendship tears in the Rewe! (local grocery store, where Germans were staring at me like a crazy person!)This is SO not the cutest snap of us, but it is all I have! xoxoxoxox

Where have I been?! :)

wow.
we've been nuts at "Casa H"

For starters, just as I was getting my laptop to "play nice" and let me upload photos, Team Leader gave it to a good friend of ours who was heading to Iraq. With no time to spare, the computer "left the building" before ANY of our photos could be burned onto a cd...including ALL the pictures I took of broken or damaged items for our moving claim!

yup...just a teeny bit frustrating...BUT we love this guy, and he needs to be able to communicate with family and friends more than I need these photos!

What I'm trying to figure out now, IS, how to upload photos from my camera (an ANCIENT Kodak Easy Share) without any of the software-that went missing LONG before we moved to Germany! Any thoughts...any sites that are better than others?

Throw me a bone folks, or it will be a while before I can make this blog "purdy!"

Back to Casa H...
we're finally getting our mail, as it catches up to us-sometimes it's happy mail (letters and catalogs) sometimes, it's not...BILLS. (Was I wrong to think those would stay in the States when we moved here and magically take care of themselves?!!)
And, it appears that as we left the States, some serious baby making mojo was left in our wake, as no less than 6 friends have emailled to confirm pregnancies!

Talk about wild!!

We are very thankful for these blessings, and the continued exciting news,however...comma...we must add better all of you than US! The idea that there will be new faces to meet when we come back to visit next year brings huge smiles to us, and I am secretly shopping all the cool Euro Baby stuff, in preparation. Shh...don't let Team Leader know!

My job still rocks-I can't say enough how much I love working with these kids-so lucky am I...so, so, lucky! (Can't believe I'm getting paid for it, to tell you the truth!)There is the potential for some seriously exciting job-ness to happen, and if it does, it will happen FAST. That's all I can say, and, to keep fingers and toes crossed for me!

The weather here has changed...Fall is cold in Germany! Woohoo Cold! We left our heaviest gear in VA...it was still at the Farm when the movers came, and we kind of forgot about it...forgot about it until we all froze our behiney's off last week when the temp. dropped about 8 gazillion degrees. Making matters even more FUN, facility management has torn up our parkinglot to make way for a "new and improved" version! Construction began a week ago, and so far we've seen people actually working 3 times...this madness is scheduled to continue for 7 more weeks!

I am in the early throws of holiday shopping, sending out a cyber-invite for Pampered Chef to anyone who wants kitchen stuff...it's fast and easy friends, and will be delivered to the address of your choice! Holiday bazaars are everywhere currently, and I'm finding all kinds of fun european treats/gifts to share some of our life here with those of you back home.

Cant say enough how much each of us, misses every one of you...remember, happy mail is always a good thing!
umarmen und lieben!
essie

for those of you wanting to see photos

the Dell computer Go-ds blessed me and somehow my laptop opened up for business today!

photos are being added to previous posts as we speak!
umarmen und lieben,
essie

"A long time ago..we used to be friends..."

I blame Gabby for the 4 day weekend Team Leader and I spent watching the first 2 seasons of one of the BEST SHOWS EVER:

VERONICA MARS!

um...gabby...we didn't feed our kids, they finally just plopped down in front of the tv. (I guess if you can't beat 'em and they won't feed you, then join 'em!) This show ROCKED and I can't believe it was cancelled!

witty, smart, funny writing
witty, smart-ass, funny Veronica
wicked, smartie, we LOVE Logan
Weavil...how often do you find yourself rooting for the Biker Gangbanger?!!
and how cute is Enrico, playing a great Daddy to our favorite modern-day Nancy Drew!

Gabby, we are waving our tv freak flag way too loud and strong right now, but wow
it was fun! I had way too many favorite lines to quote, but the one that got me laughing off my behiney...

Logan: "Take it easy, Jump Street!"

Probably Disc 4 Season 1.
Not sure though
because
we watched 12 discs!!!
It's official.
We're way too scary, and are whoa big fans!

thanks a lot!
umarmen und lieben
essie

"Gluklich Geburgstag" Biggers!

okay-so my word by word translation might not be the best,
BUT,
our son is
14.

He's 14 now.
The day is over.
His young adulthood is in front of him,
His early years are behind him,
the world, they say, is his
oyster.

His...oyster.
Our...heart.

We love you.
Momma and Daddy

(pictures to come...I know I owe lots and lots, but pictures will come!)

P.S.

Please check out the link to the Breast Cancer website.
It has a "click" link that provides a free mamogram everytime someone clicks.

This is a real website, with real support for those who cannot afford healthcare.
I have good healthcare and couldn't imagine life without it-could you?

Go ahead...click up the counter, and help.

umarmen und lieben
e

Checking in:

Happy Birthday Team Leader!

I would post photos, but our laptop with all my pictures on it won't let me go online right now (boo hiss!) so eventually, there will be pictures on this blog, for now I'll do my best to describe the festivites and events of the last week!

Team Leader turned 42 on Thursday...he had been away all week and made it home just in time for "Orange Dreamsicle" cake and Ribeye steaks. Mr. Ben had picked out the plates and party favors, his favorite favor: the trick candles that we put on the cake! (Never let it be said that some of the Harrisons lack a great sense of humor!)

A "Dogtown Skateboard" hoodie is on the way for my 1st child...Team Leader...and when I finally have a paycheck, maybe a new skateboard deck. We all relaxed and sat back to enjoy some 2 seasons ago re-runs of ER.

The new job-love it.
love it.
love it.
Mr. Ben loves having me at school with him, and, truth be told I still like being there with him.

Dollie couldn't be any more excited about volleyball-next big shopping trip is to get her the shoes she needs for her first game in 3 weeks.

This weekend-more of the same-empty the rest of the packing boxes and submit our damages claim as soon as possible. It's not fun, but, the weather is really finicky right now so being inside doesn't bother me too much.

No startling insights this week, Fall is right around the corner and the only thing I am missing is a FIREPLACE!

umarmen und lieben,
essie

Yay Doodlebug!

Guess who was one of the few 6th Graders to
MAKE
THE
MIDDLE
SCHOOL
VOLLEYBALL
TEAM....

Oh yes, she,
DID!
Yay Doodle!!

Well, nothing beats a Monday, folks!

(Side bar: This is my 101st post-yay me!)

It is also the end of my first day here at Patrick Henry Elementary...LOVED it!
I have a "runner" though, so, that means that whoa cute comfy flats are in order
AND maybe a few pairs of whoa yikes pointy flats to keep her in line!
(Just joking-really-that's for VA folks!)

Wahoo, you're right, there is no school anywhere near as great as the one that let us share a magic door with dancing beads...BUT the SPED resources are top notch, and the programming is wonderfully appropriate. I love that-making learning wonderfully appropriate-what a great freakin job!
Not having to deal with report cards or conferences...HUGE bonus for the time being,
PLUS, I get to walk home for lunch!!

Finally after 16 years,
I
get
a
real
lunch
break!!

Two big yippee-ki-yays: the music teacher said that today had been the most receptive day in TWO years with my runner/student and my principal asked me to do an inservice in two weeks!
Today must have been about twos...

No "deer in the headlights" reaction this year.
I miss my 1st grade buddies, and my K-1 feel the love girlfriends...but today, I got to sit with SPED at our faculty meeting!
How cool is that?!

umarmen und lieben
essie

I'm back!

Hallo Friends!

It's been a busy week at Casa Harrison...we went to a wine fest in Bad Durkeheim on saturday-lots of fun, although Ben was crazy mad for not getting on any of "the circus rides of death" and had to eat the largest plate of pasta EVER...however, fun was had by all and photos will be posted later-I promise!

News on the job front has changed: you are reading news from the newest Special Ed ParaProfessional at Patrick Henry Elementary! I get to work with the kiddos I love...Kindergarten and First Grade without any of the headache of report cards and conferences!!

Woohoo!

I get to walk to school with Mr. Ben, and leave school with Mr. Ben.
I have my perverbial foot in the door, and have some (very small mind you) income to contribute to the family coffers! Perhaps we'll make it back to the US this winter afterall!

(Secret wish: I just want to be able to afford some of the yummy purses and boots I've seen since we got here! Shh!! I am that shallow, I'm learning!)

Birthday love to Becca, Jenna, Lori, Luke, Jared, Team Leader, and Mrs. Mary Stright! If I've forgotten anyone, I AM SO SORRY-these are the dates I've got (stuck in the curls, mind you) thanks to my lost calendar!!!!! UGH!!

Preston's big day...next month...14...YIKES!! Still can't believe it!

umarmen und lieben
essie

2190

days ago our world changed completely.

Last year, I wrote about my memories of the day-the early day, and everything that happened next...

Today, for a few minutes, I saw sun in the sky.
Today, for a few minutes, I felt promise in the fresh brisk air
Today, for a few minutes, I heard hope in the sounds of children's voices carrying across the playground.

This year, I write about a break I see in the clouds that are looming overhead-light that is peeking out from behind darkness.

umarmen und lieben
essie

"Dear Gaia"

Please get your papers in order.
Our Momma makes us do all kinds of terrible chores that we KNOW other kids don't have to do!
You must come to Germany and save us!
We are getting dishpan hands, smell like the recyling bins, and our laundry...it's all sorts of colors!!
We need you here!
Make GrandpaDad bring you to us...
We're desperate, and will pay you back with marzipan...
What do you think?!

umarmen und lieben
Biggers, Wee, and Number Three!

I Heart Ladenburg

Back to a favorite place for our first Street Fest!
Uncle John would have LOVED it-
stalls everywhere,
people everywhere,
food vendors everywhere,
the Harrisons...
everywhere!

**blogger is currently being stinky, more photos later!**

Do I or don't I?

Take the assistant job I was offered last week?
It's half day...9-12, in Mannheim...with a VERY experienced Special Ed teacher who is great, and I would learn so so much from...
There is another possibility, and I'm throwing my hat in the ring there too, but this is here now.
What kind of terrible person would I be if I took this job, then got the other one, and left? I honestly have no clue what my chances are with the other job, but I do know that the list of potential applicants is SHORT, so I have that in my favor.

Chime in folks...the bills are coming in, and we aren't used to one paycheck! After last year's nightmare, there isn't a retirement to cash in to float us, and there are things I want to see!!

*UGH*

A year ago

I started this blog-funny how much can change in a year...
naturally, you get older
naturally, the seasons change
naturally, you find ways to stay busy
naturally, you fall into a familiar routine
naturally, you, change.

A year ago, Team Leader and I spent the day making thishappen.
Now we have this
It's nowhere near as fabulous as our house in NC, but this crazy government issue flat is our h.o.m.e.

It's funny how a strange foreign place can feel more like home than you expected...
It's funny how much can change in a year.

S.D. part 3

Had to take a break from life in house and explore yesterday...WHAT a great day!
We ended up in Ladenburg
Ladenburg is what anyone would imagine a German hamlet to be...historic houses built in the 1400's, bright colored hanging baskets, cobblestone roads...lovely and quaint.

As we walked through the town Zentrum (center) I kept wishing my parents were there, exploring with us, watching the kids discover the old and the new-I'll let the photos speak for themselves.

We ate lunch in a local restaurant, back in the biergarten which reminded me of a courtyard in Verona Italy back in the days of Romeo and Juliet> A circular courtyard with trees growing through the floors and small stairwells leading to upper balconies; balconies housing interior rooms with windows opening out for the occupants to view all of the activities downsatirs-
To top it off, we had an extremely understanding (and appreciative) waitress who indulged our (mine and Team Leader) desire to speak German as we ordered and made our way through our meal! We ordered pizzas for Team Leader,the boys, and our friend Tommy, schnitzel for DoodleBug, and spaghetti arribiatta (a spicy bolonesge) for me. With salat, and grosse colas, we stuffed ourselves, as the mid-day meal is the largest meal of the day locally.

Even the kids gave speaking German a shot, with Mr. Ben ending his meal by ordering

a vanille eis mit sahne!
(Mom-that was 100% all for you!)

We went to 2 other eis stores, for soft serve and italian gelatto eis...YUM!

After walking a gabillion miles (or so it seemed) we justified all the eis eating and made our way home down the B3. The B3 took us through the back part of Heidelberg and we ended up driving over the Old Bridge back into Heidelberg's Zentrum and then home.

What a great day-WHAT a great day!
umarmen und lieben,
essie

Intermission

Really quick, some pictures of rolling clouds

A sweet disorder-part 2

**Disclaimer-this will be "post madness" as I owe some serious Germany to family and friends in the States-be prepared!**

The movers came, a week ago, Friday.

The night before at 1700 (which is 5pm: you subtract 1200 from the time to get the civilian time)we got an email from the middle school informing "the sponsor"/Team Leader that his/her child had to get their shot record updated before Monday morning OR he/she could not come to school on the first day-Monday.
Within the text of the email there was information about the Immunization Clinic, most importantly, that it would be closing HALF DAY on Friday! We had no idea which of our two "middles" were in question, b/c the email wasn't that specific. Both would have to go, one HATES needles, this could be a problem!

We decided that I would take the kids to the clinic, b/c Team Leader HAD to be here to receive the 9 shipping crates as HE is the Service Member. (I have learned over these 15 years that if someone on the other side asks to speak to the service member, that I'm going to get nothing accomplished...they want him and no one else!)
We woke the kids up at 6:30, and by 7:20 or so, carrying their shot records b/c we weren't going to show up empty armed (hah!) we were on our way to the clinic.

TL had said "It's easy...just follow my directions" I am not the certified Path Finder in this marriage-he is-and his maps aren't exactly like MapQuest. He did give me enough land marks to make the trip all the while praying "There By the Grace of G-d go I ..." I had only been driving for 3 days, and had actually only gone straight to the PX, never into local traffic!
Needless to say, we made it, in one piece by 7:45.
We walked into the clinic-PACKED-got a number, 67, and stood by a wall to wait our turn. We ended up chatting with a family who had received the same email, and were number 59. It turned out that two hundred and ninety-two families had opened up the same message, no one had contacted the clinic, b/c it was a half day and the clinic was understaffed! While we were there, they called down to somewhere asking for more immunizations twice AND had a second staffing arrive to cover the overflow of questioning parents and their comatose middleschoolers.

It was NUTS!

Pres, fell asleep standing up while we waited, we ended up putting him in a chair for safety reasons after he nodded twice. Doll, hung out, but got very tired as we got closer and closer to their turn. By 9:30 we were on our way, with updated shot records in hand. We made it back to the movers...who were local-only one of whom spoke broken English...and TL directing traffic...and Mr. Ben writing down everything that hadn't been inventoried...

It was crazy, and that, was an understatement!

That was the kitchen. Can you see the floor?!
The dining room-I think! Maybe a bedroom?
I stopped taking pictures after I got the face above...and started taking photos of everything that had been damaged. There was a lot, it was frustrating and because it was such a long day, we're still unpacking.

One box at a time.

We have a "Whoops, You Broke It" list that is now a single space, full page, long.
I promise when the flat is as we want it that I will post "finished" photos for everyone to get an understanding of our new home.

Have to get a fresh cup of coffee-part 3 is next!
umarmen und lieben!
essie

First Day Jitters

is the title of a book I read every year to my class.
It's a great book about a TEACHER who has a case of first day nerves...
This year, I've reserved my nerves for my 3 children, whose first day of school begins in 5 minutes when I painfully begin waking them up!



More to post, I'm certain, later today!
Send happy wishes, good thoughts, and all the positive energy you can, across the pond!

umarmen und lieben
essie


ps-to all my teacher pals who start today, think a little Team Tang, Magic Door, Creative Insubordination, Deer Stuck in the Headlights hugs and love today, from me to you!
xoxoxxo

WOOHOO!!!

I passed the German driving test!
As I told my Aunt, it was 100 questions of PURE STRESS, and its done!!
Yay ME!!

TL is happy, because he's tired of driving me around, the kids are happy because we aren't confined to Base.
I'm happy because the darn thing is DONE!!

umarmen und lieben
essie

Life on Post

Little things I've picked up about living on Post include-

*Some parents don't supervise their kids...at all!
*You stand up for the National Anthem at the movie theatre before the movie starts.
*You can walk anywhere you want to go, on Post, that is!
*People can hear you from your second story flat.
*Our "Eis" (ice cream) man is ITALIAN, and is trying to teach me how to order for the kids in German, Spanish, and Italian-the French, I have that down pat!
*You can pay in dollars, but no one wants pennies...
*There is a lot of practical storage in our flat, but, it's also empty right now!
*Some GI's and their families, want this base to look manicured and nice-others-not so much!(See my first comment above!)

The other night TL and I went to see Oceans Thirteen (just now getting here...)a 5 minute walk from our place to the theatre. It was light out when we left. Naturally, it was dark when we got out of the movie. We started our walk home, talking about the movie and the fact we were actually having the FIRST date night of our marriage, when I looked up an saw a fully lit Christmas tree in the window of another soldier's Quarters.

A Christmas tree...in August.

A sign, perhaps, that for this home Christmas would be now instead of December because Mommy or Daddy wouldn't be around then?

Maybe. Probably. It brought tears to my eyes, and made me think of our friends who have been gone for too long, and who are leaving again right now-for too long.
It's not right. Not at all. I don't envy any of them...just pray and hope for their safe return, and hope that this world of ours can settle down enough for us to leave SOMETHING tangible for our children, who will inheirit this madness if it doesn't.

Had to share this little nugget!

This comes from a fellow "Expat" named J who I met online shamelessly blog lurking while I was getting prepared to move overseas. He is also a teacher, and his blog is fantastic! Lots of great info about Germany, and, when you see the title you'll understand why I was drawn to it!

What Your Pizza Reveals

You eat like a European. A little bit of everything, but too much. You stay svelt through portion control. You consider pizza to be bread... very good bread. You fit in best in the Midwest part of the US. You like food that's traditional and well crafted. You aren't impressed with "gourmet" foods. You are generous, outgoing, and considerate with your choices. You are a flavorful and bold person. You should consider traveling to Spain. The stereotype that best fits you is guy or girl next door. Hey, there's nothing wrong with being average.

What Does Your Pizza Say About You?

love, love, love these bags!

so...getting used to blogger coming up in german...starting to recognize some words and (while I've probably just memorized the links I hit) I'm feeling like I might be getting some of this!

Here are my lovely, lovely shopping bags:
this is the bag in it's little holder-it's the size of a credit card! This is the pattern love,love,love and this is the shape
It's about as big as a large plastic bag from Safeway or Giant BUT it is made of this fantastic rip-proof nylon. Because I couldn't resist, I got this too,
It's a bottle bag-holds 9 bottles of whatever you are buying...water...heffeweissen (beer)...wine...you name it! Another great purchase was this bag This bag actually opens up and hooks onto either side of your shopping cart, you load it up, pay for your things, and load it up again to take your purchases home...fabulous for many other uses as well, but holy mess, is just too cute not to have!

What Im saving up to get is this little baby-trust me, it's going to be worth the $50.00+ I spend, the real thing is amazing!!

TL thinks I'm nuts, maybe I am, but I truly feel that by using these bags I'm making my little contribution to eliminating unnecessary waste!

umarmen und lieben
essie