Happy Horsey Halloween

Halloween isn't as big of a deal here in Germany as it is in The States but we still wanted Alessandra to have a good experience.  

So we bought some candy, took it to Jon's work, handed it out, and sent Alessandra from desk to desk to go trick or treating. 

We taught her how to say "trick or treat" and "candy please" and sent her on her way

.

We reminded her to say "thank you" and Alessandra added kisses and waves to her repertoire.

I Think I'm Gonna Cry!

I just found out that Jon won't be getting in until the 19th.  When he said he was going to get home on the 18th I assumed he meant that he would be HOME ON THE 18TH, not coming home on the 18th and here on the 19th.  I am so upset.  I leave the morning of the 20th so that means I'm going to have about 16 hours with him before I have to leave.  UUUGGGHHH!  I am missing him so badly.  Alessandra is missing him so badly.  When we skype she tells him "stop" and "don't" and then looks behind the screen.  She wants to stop skyping and start snuggling and so do I.

Well, today is also Father's Day so a very Happy Father's Day to all of the Father's and Grandfather's in my life.  I love you all.  Alessandra presented Jon with his gift this afternoon/morning.  Alessandra was excited to give it and Jon was surprised/happy to receive it.    YAY!!!!  Job well done Mommy!!!

Better scoot, Alessandra is tormenting the girls by chasing them around the house with her ladybug and tractor.  She's such a naughty little girl  ;o)

Charmian

Happy Little Rain Showers

Today we had rain.  Not dark stormy rain cloud rain, but happy little rain showers.  You know the ones - rain floats down and it feels like you've walked under a mister at the amusement park.  It was wonderful. Not only was the weather fun and sprinkley but it was also day 4 of my singlmomdom (Jon's away on business.) which means I finally got over the single mommy hump.

What I've found in the few times that I've had to take care of EVERYTHING all on my own is that it takes about three days to get in the groove.  Picking up your spouses responsibilities, deciding what daily tasks are really important, which ones can be done less frequently, what things can wait until your singlemomdom comes to an end, and which ones you definitely need to tackle because you don't have anyone telling you not to do it.  :o)  Being a single parent is so tough and my hat's off to all of you who call this your norm.  I'm glad my reign in singlemomdom is usually short and infrequent.

As I type this my little one is starting to squawk so I better be off.  Good night!

Charmian

The Visa

Jon spent his lunch hour working on getting his work visa.  After three hours he left with some pretty heavy news.  He has about a week to get his thesis done otherwise he'll have to change his visa from a work visa back to a student visa.

Needless to say the news stressed Jon out a bit and I have a feeling we won't be seeing very much of him for the next couple of weeks.  I feel so bad for him but there isn't anything I can do to help him through this.

Jon had started on his thesis while he was in the midst of his job search but between interviews, visitors, birthdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, a move, and a new job, the thesis was put on the back burner.  Since Jon started his new job he's been doing a TON of research.  None of which related to his thesis.  So he was comfronted with the decision to stick with his original thesis that was already in the works or scrap it and start new with the research that applies to his new job.  It's a risky move but it makes the work he's done thus far at work and the information that's fresh in his head the topic for his thesis.  It will mean more work but it will be work that will serve him in the future at work.  So that's his plan.  To start his 40 page thesis (40 pages of content) all over again and get it done ASAP so he can get the visa that we need to stay here.

Charmian

Update:  Monday night 10 pages 

Update:  Tuesday night 17 pages 

Update:  Wednesday night 27 pages 

Update:  Thursday night  35 pages

Update:  Sunday afternoon 47 pages - now this is total pages and not content so he still has a little bit more work to do and some finishing touches to make.  I think this next week we'll actually get to see him again - YAY!!!

Update:  Monday Jon was able to extend his Student Visa until May 15th.  So now he just has to get it done.  

We Need a Calendar

Every year for Christmas MK/Oma always gives us calendars.  

This year we didn't get any, and boy do we need one.  

We woke up at about 7:45 just like every other day since the move.  We snuggled in bed for a bit chatting about dreams, plans, and agendas.  Jon got ready for work, Alessandra and I ate breakfast.  We said our goodbyes.  Jon made it to the office by 9:00 like he does on most mornings.  He settled in to a fine days work when one of his coworkers walked in and exuberantly greeted everybody with a "Happy February!"  Jon grumbled about how quickly the year was going by and how he couldn't believe it was already February when it hit him.  "Wait! It's February, like February 1st!  Shoot!  It's my anniversary!"  All of his coworkers gave him a very supportive "OOOO - Did you forget? - You're in trouble!"

He went outside and called me.  Ring... Ring...  "Hello" "I didn't forget" Jon blurted.  "Forget what?" I said.  "It's February 1st."  Jon said.  OH!  Shoot!  Well, Happy Anniversary!?!  I said sheepishly.  "Man, we need a calendar!"

Normally I would have my computer that I would get on at least once a day but without internet I wasn't doing that.  So, I didn't have my computer to tell me what day it was and I didn't have a calendar to tell me what day it was so Jon and I snuck into nine years of marriage without any bells or whistles, parties or presents.  And you know what we both survived.

I did get a beautiful bouquet of flowers delivered to my door, oh, and an IKEA kitchen.  So really, this was our biggest anniversary to date.  I mean how many girls get a kitchen for their anniversary, not many I think.  ;o)  But we definitely need to pick up a couple calendars (or MK you need to send us some) so we don't forget to celebrate the rest of the holidays this year.

Charmian

Five Minutes

That's approximately how long I have before I'll lose my internet connection again.  But I wanted you all to know that we are safe and sound in Dusseldorf.

Jon found our flat - a comfy little three room in the Zoo District.  I was worried.  It wasn't exactly what I wanted or where I wanted it.  I've only been here for five days and already I can see that I'm going to  LOVE this place.  It's about a 30 minute commute for Jon by tram and may be a bit less once we get him a bike.  I wanted to be really close to Jon's work and the English Church but that didn't happen.  BUT - what did happen was Jon found us a beautiful flat that backs to a gorgeous fairy land (pictures to come), on a quiet street, in a quiet building, that's half a block from a nice park with a lake filled with ducks, geese, and swans.  All of the girls are loving being so close to the park and there three walks a day.  :o)

The flat is really bright - which may mean it will be hot come summer but for now it's great.  We do not have our kitchen yet or any lights - for those of you who don't quite understand what that means here's a quick description.  I currently have a tiled room with a handful of plugs, a drain, and connections for water.  The said room is filled with about 6 boxes which will hopefully transform into my kitchen sooner than later.  :o)  Hanging from every ceiling in every room are three wires just waiting for lights to be connected to them.  Due to the fact that Jon is already busy at work, my light and kitchen situation have to wait until the weekend to be resolved.

I of course packed my camera so I couldn't get you guys any fun before and after pictures but what I can tell you is the entire place is white with a light pergo floor.  The kitchen and bathroom are tiled in a grayish white tile.  We do have a balcony that will be big enough for a table and a few chairs when we have it in our budget to splurge on such a luxury.


Take an American grocery store and split it into it's subsequent sections.  Now make all of those sections into their own store.  Okay that's pretty much how it is here in Germany.  All of the stores that make up an American grocery store are just through the park (about a 7 minute walk) a bit further than my Lidl was in Leipzig but all of the stores are clustered so it will be way more convenient.

The tram stop is right outside the grocery store which pretty quickly gets me into town, to the Rhein, to the train station... you get the idea.

I've also noticed that the people have been so much nicer and more welcoming than the people were from my ghetto in Leipzig.  And mom's, you can sleep easy tonight.  I'm happy to report that we are now the riff-raff that's bringing down the neighborhood instead of the other way around.  ;o)

All in all I am soooo happy;  I just wish I could move my friends and family down the block, turn on a few lights, and scramble some eggs.  Am I asking too much, I think not!!!

Miss you all and love you all and I can't wait to reconnect with all of you once I'm a bit more settled.

Hugs and Loves,

Charmian

It's Official

Jon and I are the proud renters of a beautiful 3 room flat in Dusseldorf Germany - YAY!!!

Jon signed the contracts today and although it's not in the exact location we originally wanted it may even be better.  We are in the Zoo District and the big Zoo Park is across the street.  Which means more frequent walks in the park for the girls.  We still have a backyard just like we have now - which makes late night and early morning bathroom runs a breeze.  3 rooms so Alessandra will be moving out of our room and into her big girl bedroom.

I can't wait to see it!

Now to get packed, moved out, and moved in so Jon can start work on the 23rd.  PHEW!  I'm tired already!

Charmian

I Just Can't Take it Anymore!!!

I have to let Mr. Whiskers out of the Backpack!!!

Source:  fotolibra.com

I am pretty impressed with myself for keeping this in as long as I have but I can't stand keeping it a secret any longer.  There are soooooo many things that I want to tell you about so - here goes.

Jon got a JOB!!!!!

I told Jon that I wasn't going to tell anyone so he needed to start spreading the word and well, he wasn't telling anyone, and I can't stand it anymore.  I hate doing this because it really is Jon's news to share but he's not - so I will.  

HOORAY!!

Jonesin'

I was jonesin' for my Jonesians.

But I was able to get my fix today.  

I loved working at Jones.  

I love my coworkers/friends - past and present - 

and I miss not getting to see them 5 days a week.

To my fellow Jonesians, if you're reading this,
please know how much I miss you and how much I loved working with you.

Charmian

My Jones Family

I was finally able to bring Alessandra in to meet her extended Jones family.

Even Dee can rock the bow!

Dee

Brittany

Nary

Marcia

Bran

Twin & Brittany

Cathy

Jules

She's out!

We had great fun and everyone enjoyed passing her around and getting lots of little girl snuggles.

Extra Curricular Activities

Besides work I’ve been staying really busy with, well, being busy.

One thing that has been fun is all of the lunches and dinners I’ve been able to go to.

I had dinner with a couple of my Marrieds and I was able to enjoy delicious homemade fettuccini alfredo and shared a few good laughs and stories ta’boot.

Next was the Eich Girls Night Out, which was with my Sister and Cousin – N – Law. It was awesome, the food was delicious, and we filled the night talking about all things baby.

I had the opportunity to go to a Rockies game with some of my favorite coworkers. It was a ton of fun and I even got to enjoy a delicious veggie dog (yes – I am a vegetarian and yes the hot dog was surprisingly good)
and cotton candy (I know surprise, surprise).

Here are a few pix from that little adventure.

Rockies in action.

The HR team

My twin, Jules, and Bran

Da' Girls 

  

More of the game.

Sorry about the pictures being all funny
I had them cropped and rotated and when I went to import this happened. 

If I was more of a techy I could probably fix it - I hope you still enjoy!

I went to another one of my Marrieds for a puppy play date and lunch.  All the girls (Dotty, Ripley, and Emme) had a blast and Emme was nice enough to share her doggy pool with Ripley and her ball with Dot.  It may well have been the cutest thing ever seeing Ripley trying to figure out the pool. 

This week I had lunch with one of my oldest and dearest friends that I lost touch with for years and was recently able to reconnect with.  It was so great getting to catch up with her and hear what she's been up to.  I can't wait to get together again!!

And last but not least, this afternoon I got to have lunch with my lovely Mrs Reederman.  She was sweet enough to drive all the way down to my office just for a couple hours of together time.  She's the best!!

Thank you all for keeping me busy,
you are definitely helping my time fly by.

Before I know it the Baby and Jon will be here :o)



30 Days Down

Well my first 30 days here in Germany are complete! What a ride it has been. The first two weeks were full of pretty intense travel where the goal was to show the old man and my brother as much as possible. The last three weeks have been a blur of school related activity...and today reality hit when I realized it has been a month.

I have been married for 8 years, so a one month anniversary seems a little ridiculous.

"I am in a committed relationship."

"Great! How long have you been together?"

"You wouldn't believe it if I told you. It's been 30."

"Shoot, that long! You don't look that old!"

"Yeah I know, the last 30 days have been good to me!"

What the hell, it is an excuse to get a couple of drinks and some dinner (not that I have needed any excuses so far). Regardless, one month is still a milestone, a step along the way, and should be celebrated!

The scary part about the whole thing is that it has only seemed like a week since I got my passport stamped in Berlin.

The old saying holds true, time flies when you are having fun!

Baby Showers, Baby Showers & more Baby Showers



Have I ever told you that I'm one lucky lady? 

Well if I haven't let me tell you real quick. 

I am so blessed!!!

I have some of the best friends and family members a girl could ask for.  They are so supportive, loving, and a blast to be with.  Now don't get me wrong, there are of course the bumps and bruises that can occur whenever you put two people together but I still think that I am pretty darn lucky.

Anyway  back to the showers.  I didn't just get one baby shower, I got three. 
Now this may be a normal thing but it sure did make me feel special. 

I've already told you guys about our Bye Bye/Baby Shower which was our baby shower and going away party with friends.  I promise we will get the few pictures we took up soon.

Our second baby shower was with family and it occurred about two weeks ago so I figured it was time to do a post about it.

The whole crew!
(except some of my mom's good friends who just happened to go MIA for the photo)



 Everyone working on my baby book - Best present ever!

Thanks everyone for tapping into your creative juices to give me such a special gift!



Me with my loot - I told you I was one lucky lady!

  

   Oh by the way, I only allowed people to come if they brought the cutest kids in town!!

Maybe I'm biased because they're all family but I still think they're pretty darn adorable.



Me with my Mom and some of those MIA friends / The Eichelberger Girls

Last but not least was my work shower. 

I was so surprised when I walked into Mimi's Cafe last Friday to see nearly 20 chairs set up.  That's right I had 17 people at my work shower and they showed up at the restaurant at 7:30 a.m. to celebrate the newest addition to my family.

Wow, did I feel loved!!

Here are the only pictures I have from that get together - they aren't great but it's something.

That's it for my baby showers

Thank you all so much...

for coming,

for helping me get stocked up with all of my hippie baby gear
(more about this in another post)

but most of all thank you for joining me in this crazy adventure called life,

I couldn't imagine this journey without you!!

Love,       

Charmian  

  

How I spend my weekdays

So I realized the other day that this blog doesn't adequately show what  I do from 9 - 5, Monday - Friday.  So that's what I decided to do with this post.

I work as a Human Resources Coordinator, although what I really do is protect and serve my fellow associates every way I know how.  Here I am with my coworker and friend Dee. 

As you can see we are prepared for anything and are ready at a moments notice.

Just a Hum Drum Day

Well, today's just one of those days. I'm feeling really yucky and nothing at work seems to be going right - at all. Everything keeps breaking and it seems like I'm the only one who can fix it - UUUGGGHHH!!

On another much happier note my plan is to get up some posts soon with pictures from our previous trips so I can refer back when telling funny stories or referring to our family/friends. But let's be honest I just love talking about our trips so any excuse is good enough for me.

We had an awesome weekend - busy but still laid back. I was able to rub a baby bump, see my Marrieds, and visit half of the Reederman's.

Well that's all for now!!