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Saturday, August 2, 2008
PLAYMOBIL FUN PARK
PlayMobil is based in Germany! They have the neatest fun park which is geared towards physical activity-running, climbing, splashing, digging, walking,spinning--without the rides and bells and whistles. The kids had a blast! WHen it got hotter later in the afternoon we went inside where there were literally thousands of playmobil sets for kids to play witha t tables or on the carpets AND a beer garden for the moms and dads! What more could you ask for????? Gotta love Germany!!!
Monday, July 28, 2008
WIESBADEN
This is right across the street from us. Its the Wiesbaden theatre/casino. We take Angel out to play ball and run.
This is about a 4 minute walk from our apartmentSunday, July 20, 2008
A few pics (more coming soon)
Playing at the Fasanerie-always lots of kids around!
Eating out in Wiesbaden
Eating outside in WiesbadenMom and Layne picnicing
Layne with her summer school class of boys singing the "Watermelon Song"
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Q and A day!
Lots of questions lately so I decided to put them all in one place...
Why aren't the kids going to Montessori? This is a great question since Im a devoted Montessori mom. The Montessori schools here are all in German. Not a bad thing, and something I would consider if we were living here permanently. I looked at the International School of Wiesbaden because they have the PYP program that I'm very impressed with. It incorporates a lot of Montessori principles. Classes are taught in English, but all the students take German ( required by law). Also,I left that they were ready to expand out a bit AND it is the best choice for an International mix of kids. There are some Americans there, so they have some familiarity. The resources at ISW are also so much better than any other school I've seen. So, Montessori home environment-enriched by international education
What are you guys eating over there in the land of sausage and cheese? Well, right now we are in a service apartment with a very small fridge and kitchen so its not easy. Making salad is a challenge but I'm doing it! We also have eaten lots of fresh pasta (Luke has discovered Ravioli!) and we make a fresh tomato, EVO, garlic sauce. I have been buying bags of baby spinach (Layne's fav) This week we also had steamed broccoli with sweet potatoes, baked tofu, and burritos. We are right next door to a noddle bar so we do sometimes go there and have their vegetarian noodle dish. Its AMAZING! My picky eater, Layne, just gets edamame and eats some of our noddles. Luke loves all Asian food (have weaned in Singapore) and loves DimSum, Gyoza and anything on the menu. last week he was craving Indian food and wanted Palac Paneer and Dahl. He is so funny.
Ok, that enough for now. I do want to add that Luke is so excited because I bought him a brown fedora last night! He's a huge Indiana Jones fan and has been walking around in baggy khakis with a belt rolled up on is hip ( whip). He's looked at the IJ costumes, but a men's small fedora is just perfect and it will come in handy during bad weather. Pics are coming as soon as I can download some.
Chris is home for alt east two weeks-we are hoping his crazy travel time is OVER.
Why aren't the kids going to Montessori? This is a great question since Im a devoted Montessori mom. The Montessori schools here are all in German. Not a bad thing, and something I would consider if we were living here permanently. I looked at the International School of Wiesbaden because they have the PYP program that I'm very impressed with. It incorporates a lot of Montessori principles. Classes are taught in English, but all the students take German ( required by law). Also,I left that they were ready to expand out a bit AND it is the best choice for an International mix of kids. There are some Americans there, so they have some familiarity. The resources at ISW are also so much better than any other school I've seen. So, Montessori home environment-enriched by international education
What are you guys eating over there in the land of sausage and cheese? Well, right now we are in a service apartment with a very small fridge and kitchen so its not easy. Making salad is a challenge but I'm doing it! We also have eaten lots of fresh pasta (Luke has discovered Ravioli!) and we make a fresh tomato, EVO, garlic sauce. I have been buying bags of baby spinach (Layne's fav) This week we also had steamed broccoli with sweet potatoes, baked tofu, and burritos. We are right next door to a noddle bar so we do sometimes go there and have their vegetarian noodle dish. Its AMAZING! My picky eater, Layne, just gets edamame and eats some of our noddles. Luke loves all Asian food (have weaned in Singapore) and loves DimSum, Gyoza and anything on the menu. last week he was craving Indian food and wanted Palac Paneer and Dahl. He is so funny.
Ok, that enough for now. I do want to add that Luke is so excited because I bought him a brown fedora last night! He's a huge Indiana Jones fan and has been walking around in baggy khakis with a belt rolled up on is hip ( whip). He's looked at the IJ costumes, but a men's small fedora is just perfect and it will come in handy during bad weather. Pics are coming as soon as I can download some.
Chris is home for alt east two weeks-we are hoping his crazy travel time is OVER.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Thursday Tourists
Chris is gone-Spain, Belgium, other parts of Germany...so the kids and I are playing tourist! WE are doing some homeschool work in the early a.m. (reading, writing, math) but mostly we are exploring our new city. I learned that Wiesbaden was actually RUMORED to be spared during the Allied bombings because the US wanted to have a base here. Its a historic spa/springs town with 26 fresh springs reflected everywhere in the beautiful big fountains all over the city. Mostly cool springs but a few hot ones. The fountain by our favorite playground is so hot steam comes from it. Wiesbaden is known worldwide as a healing place; a big part of the tourist industry here is for people suffering from rheumatic and orthopedic conditions. Today we actually went to one of the "bath houses" where there is a large pool from the springs. People swim in it and there are jets all over the pool for therapeutic purposes. There were mostly elderly people there, but its ok for the kids to go and was a great chance for them to swim. Many asked us how Layne learned to swim so well,; who is her swimming tutor? (Im a big believer in natural swimming-swimming when they are ready. fine to take lessons to refine skills, but I hate seeing screaming kids sitting on the sides of a pool because their moms are forcing swimming lessons. (much like potty "training" , I think it just happens))
Yesterday, Wednesday, was market day. There's a huge market on Wed. and Sat. for fresh veggies, cheese, some meats. EVERYONE goes to market days. The grocery stores here are barely bigger than a WaWa's back home. They are for canned goods, cold items and some produce. You go to the bread shop for most bread and to the butcher for meats. I love that about Europe and it was similar in the Middle East. and when I was in school in the U.K. You also have to take your own bags and carry everything home with you. Not like those big COSTCO runs back home!
Tuesday the kids and I went to a great nature park called the Fasanerie. Its a lot like Richmond's Maymont with a sort of "zoo" (pigs, goats, reindeer) but also with a fabulous play area. Everything made very naturally here-ropes to walk across and balance on, water pumps to make lots of mud and little streams, wood climbing structures and lots of big trees for climbing. We packed a lunch and ended up staying for 3 hours! Luke found some kids to play catch with (Star Wars style with lasers, hiding, running, catching- this seems to be the "theme" of his play these days) and Layne spent about an hour with a little boy floating leaves down the little stream they created. SHe had a blast seeing if she could put two leaves together, put an acorn on top, all kinds of creative things. Amazing that it occupied her for so long. We had a picnic and I mostly sat and watched; listening to all the German around me. It still is odd to be so immersed in a different language; I haven't experienced that in all my travels before. I rarely hear English, most people can speak some, but its not common to use unless needed.
Angel is okay but sleeping a lot. Must be her age (12)and still the stress of the move. I walk her daily in the Kurpark (cool park-cool water springs) but may take her to the Wempark (warm) tomorrow and see if she wants to get in the water. May be good for her old bones.I'm sure she's happier here and will be great once we are in the house with our big yard for her to lay around in. Gerri is great and demanding as ever.
I have been getting some yoga and a good walk in the mornings-both vital for me for a good day! I have just about finished the first scarf I started knitting over the summer, my first project. It's pink for Layne and full of mistakes. Still, there's something about sewing or knitting things for your children that feels very maternal to me. I love that it will keep her warm.
SORRY NO PICTURES UNTIL WE GET INTO THE HOUSE. I WILL POST TONS THEN
Lastly, to all my friends in Jerusalem-shalom during this sad time. To my Muslim friends, I know you, like me, continue to pray and seek peace. Salaam Malaykum. Im shocked by recent events having been in the Middle East during the war in 2006 and the hostage taking. I remember it well. Would love to hear some input from some of you on your views/opinions on this event. PEACE
Yesterday, Wednesday, was market day. There's a huge market on Wed. and Sat. for fresh veggies, cheese, some meats. EVERYONE goes to market days. The grocery stores here are barely bigger than a WaWa's back home. They are for canned goods, cold items and some produce. You go to the bread shop for most bread and to the butcher for meats. I love that about Europe and it was similar in the Middle East. and when I was in school in the U.K. You also have to take your own bags and carry everything home with you. Not like those big COSTCO runs back home!
Tuesday the kids and I went to a great nature park called the Fasanerie. Its a lot like Richmond's Maymont with a sort of "zoo" (pigs, goats, reindeer) but also with a fabulous play area. Everything made very naturally here-ropes to walk across and balance on, water pumps to make lots of mud and little streams, wood climbing structures and lots of big trees for climbing. We packed a lunch and ended up staying for 3 hours! Luke found some kids to play catch with (Star Wars style with lasers, hiding, running, catching- this seems to be the "theme" of his play these days) and Layne spent about an hour with a little boy floating leaves down the little stream they created. SHe had a blast seeing if she could put two leaves together, put an acorn on top, all kinds of creative things. Amazing that it occupied her for so long. We had a picnic and I mostly sat and watched; listening to all the German around me. It still is odd to be so immersed in a different language; I haven't experienced that in all my travels before. I rarely hear English, most people can speak some, but its not common to use unless needed.
Angel is okay but sleeping a lot. Must be her age (12)and still the stress of the move. I walk her daily in the Kurpark (cool park-cool water springs) but may take her to the Wempark (warm) tomorrow and see if she wants to get in the water. May be good for her old bones.I'm sure she's happier here and will be great once we are in the house with our big yard for her to lay around in. Gerri is great and demanding as ever.
I have been getting some yoga and a good walk in the mornings-both vital for me for a good day! I have just about finished the first scarf I started knitting over the summer, my first project. It's pink for Layne and full of mistakes. Still, there's something about sewing or knitting things for your children that feels very maternal to me. I love that it will keep her warm.
SORRY NO PICTURES UNTIL WE GET INTO THE HOUSE. I WILL POST TONS THEN
Lastly, to all my friends in Jerusalem-shalom during this sad time. To my Muslim friends, I know you, like me, continue to pray and seek peace. Salaam Malaykum. Im shocked by recent events having been in the Middle East during the war in 2006 and the hostage taking. I remember it well. Would love to hear some input from some of you on your views/opinions on this event. PEACE
Saturday, July 12, 2008
EXHAUSTED but we're all together
Chris back from his whirlwind week travelling in Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium. He is sooo tired because he's been travelling since he started this job. It's Saturday morning 11:30 and we are just hanging out at our temporary apartment, windows open ( its maybe 75 degrees) with church bells clanging in the background. Today is market day but we don't feel like walking down to the outdoor market. We do need to run some errands and get some groceries; Chris leaves again on Monday and will be gone all week. (Poor guy-I think he'll suffer thru Italy, Spain and Portugal!)
Luke and Layne attended a week of summer school at their new school-The international School of Wiesbaden. The principal thought it would be a good opportunity for them to meet some other children and acclimate a bit before the first day of school. Layne was very excited and had her backpack and lunch already to go the first day! She was the only girl in her class of 7, but she held her own. She told them all she was in charge and pulled the "ladies first" line a few times per her teacher. She cooked, went on nature walks, did art projects and read. She loved it and was so cute at the final day presentation as her class of boys sang a song about watermelons!
Luke likes his school as well. He met several new friends and a GIRL that he keeps smiling about. (Oh Lord!) He was busy with Reading and Writer's Workshop, ICT and Science Lab. He really enjoyed the other children and I had several moms come up to me and ask if I was Luke's mom. He made quite an impression on several of the kids-already getting play date requests.
While the monkeys were at school, I was busy with nice long walks with Angel through the many parks here. Angel is doing ok, but I think she will be better once we are settled in our house. I also spend time cleaning up around here (white tiles floors-ugh) and by the time I showered, it was noon and time to get the kids! Afternoons were spent outside at parks. Weather has been beautiful.
I originally started this blog to tell about our Montessori homeschooling and life overseas. Since we aren't homeschooling, I'm just going to roll with it and write whatever comes to mind. Have had a few requests for some yoga related posts. I'll get there! I did practice quite a bit in the states this summer, but haven't been on my mat in a week. I'm committed to getting on again on Monday-I'll update you then. I really need some inversions!
Off to get some lunch. I'm going to try and write alteast twice a week. Keep us in your prayers and intentions-Chris is stressed with all his new responsibility and there is some uncertainty with the house, how long we'll be in a hotel/apartment situation etc. REALLY looking forward to getting settled. Love and light!
Luke and Layne attended a week of summer school at their new school-The international School of Wiesbaden. The principal thought it would be a good opportunity for them to meet some other children and acclimate a bit before the first day of school. Layne was very excited and had her backpack and lunch already to go the first day! She was the only girl in her class of 7, but she held her own. She told them all she was in charge and pulled the "ladies first" line a few times per her teacher. She cooked, went on nature walks, did art projects and read. She loved it and was so cute at the final day presentation as her class of boys sang a song about watermelons!
Luke likes his school as well. He met several new friends and a GIRL that he keeps smiling about. (Oh Lord!) He was busy with Reading and Writer's Workshop, ICT and Science Lab. He really enjoyed the other children and I had several moms come up to me and ask if I was Luke's mom. He made quite an impression on several of the kids-already getting play date requests.
While the monkeys were at school, I was busy with nice long walks with Angel through the many parks here. Angel is doing ok, but I think she will be better once we are settled in our house. I also spend time cleaning up around here (white tiles floors-ugh) and by the time I showered, it was noon and time to get the kids! Afternoons were spent outside at parks. Weather has been beautiful.
I originally started this blog to tell about our Montessori homeschooling and life overseas. Since we aren't homeschooling, I'm just going to roll with it and write whatever comes to mind. Have had a few requests for some yoga related posts. I'll get there! I did practice quite a bit in the states this summer, but haven't been on my mat in a week. I'm committed to getting on again on Monday-I'll update you then. I really need some inversions!
Off to get some lunch. I'm going to try and write alteast twice a week. Keep us in your prayers and intentions-Chris is stressed with all his new responsibility and there is some uncertainty with the house, how long we'll be in a hotel/apartment situation etc. REALLY looking forward to getting settled. Love and light!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Guten Morgen
Good Morning! Well, we are here, atleast in body. I am seriously jet lagged while everyone else seems just fine! We arrived 3 days ago and settled into our temporary apartment just fine. Language is going to be an issue as we discovered trying to venture out the first day to even get some groceries. Chris and pets arrived the next day (friday) and everyone is fine. We have our bearings a bit and I can get to the grocery so we are good.
So far, we have been out exploring a lot. Stopped by the school and found out there is summer school this week! Luke and Layne really want to goto meet some new friends. I am glad they are eager to go. The school is very cute, small, beautiful setting. I think it is going to be great-everyone was very nice. We also drove by the house. It is BIG and yes, right next to a castle. Lots of trees and green-Luke is already planning his treehouse! Yesterday went to a colleagues of Chris for a BBQ. It was nice to be welcomed and everyone was friendly. Luke is excited that we also found a Subway here -he loves their veggie subs! He also loves the story how the Germans ran Wal mart out of the country for trying to impose their labor practices on the German employees. (Luke boycotts WalMart along with his mom and dad).
Lots of walkiing here so I need to keep energy levels up. Christine and Gia, if you are reading this, reminds me a bit of London and all that walking we did....I lost 10 lb in 3 months just walking everywhere.! That was 22 years ago-can you believe it. Europe always reminds me of you both. xo
So, Chris leaves on business tommorow for a week. I'll be busy getting my phone, keeping animals walked and fed and running kids to school. We are in about a one block walking distance of 3 parks so we will be outside a lot. Weather is awesome 75-80 degrees in July! The Germans are dying of heat stroke.....and Im getting worried about winter!!!!
Love to all and I'll update when I can. Sorry-no photos yet but soon. Auf Wiedersehen!
So far, we have been out exploring a lot. Stopped by the school and found out there is summer school this week! Luke and Layne really want to goto meet some new friends. I am glad they are eager to go. The school is very cute, small, beautiful setting. I think it is going to be great-everyone was very nice. We also drove by the house. It is BIG and yes, right next to a castle. Lots of trees and green-Luke is already planning his treehouse! Yesterday went to a colleagues of Chris for a BBQ. It was nice to be welcomed and everyone was friendly. Luke is excited that we also found a Subway here -he loves their veggie subs! He also loves the story how the Germans ran Wal mart out of the country for trying to impose their labor practices on the German employees. (Luke boycotts WalMart along with his mom and dad).
Lots of walkiing here so I need to keep energy levels up. Christine and Gia, if you are reading this, reminds me a bit of London and all that walking we did....I lost 10 lb in 3 months just walking everywhere.! That was 22 years ago-can you believe it. Europe always reminds me of you both. xo
So, Chris leaves on business tommorow for a week. I'll be busy getting my phone, keeping animals walked and fed and running kids to school. We are in about a one block walking distance of 3 parks so we will be outside a lot. Weather is awesome 75-80 degrees in July! The Germans are dying of heat stroke.....and Im getting worried about winter!!!!
Love to all and I'll update when I can. Sorry-no photos yet but soon. Auf Wiedersehen!
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