1. Early weekend, since Lorna and Maggie don't need me tomorrow. No alarm clock for the rest of the year!
2. Ben showed up! I was astonished because his German is good, and he is very agreeable to talk to. He has very strong views that really further a discussion.
3. Saturday! Wohooo!
Mittwoch, 17. Dezember 2008
Samstag, 13. Dezember 2008
I feel strange
Something is not right concerning my health. Just when I thought I had got rid off my second cold, my throat started hurting again yesterday. I had trouble swallowing and just before I went to bed I realised that I had a fever which kept me up half the night. When I woke up, it was gone, but I still didn't feel rosy, so I had a lemsip. Now, although I feel okay, I don't trust it, hence I told Sandra that I wouldn't be able to make it to the cinema today which is a shame because it's our last weekend together for the year, but then, I don't want to be ill next week (for obvious reasons). I'll just have to sit this one out, then. Blast!
Freitag, 12. Dezember 2008
Donnerstag, 11. Dezember 2008
Bugger, Fuck, Shit, Bollocks, Cunt, Mo*****fucking Cocksucking pile of crap!
Mood? Fucking A! Sixt has finally decided to send us the fucking bill for the pranged van and they want 750 fucking Euros. I mean, yeah, that was the excess, but considering that they didn't feel the necessity to inform me that I could've lowered it by paying a bit more for the rental in the first place, it feels like a goddamn ripoff! There go my savings and the dream of new speakers! Remind me never to rent a van from Sixt again! Graaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
Good thing I've decided not to go to London at the weekend, because now I couldn't even afford it anyway...
PS: Excuse my French.
Good thing I've decided not to go to London at the weekend, because now I couldn't even afford it anyway...
PS: Excuse my French.
Samstag, 6. Dezember 2008
It's just plain wrong...
...if you have to set the alarm clock at the weekend. Still, that is what I did this morning, because they were having a German Christmas market at Pate's and Sam asked me to help, so of course I did. Between 11am and 2pm I sold loads of German Bratwurst and even the odd Glühwein. One person got a discount for ordering in German, one told us that he just came back from a stay in Nuremberg and that our sausages looked a lot like the ones they sold over there (he was glad to hear that they were original Nuremberg sausages) and one just babbled something about Weißwürste which I'm still suspicious of, probably because I'm not Bavarian.
Internet is not working regularly anymore. It didn't work last week at all, so I guess the neighbours have decided only to use the internet at the weekend. Thus, it might take me a while to answer messages.
School is still the same, some pupils are nice (especially the ones who tell me they can't make it to their session) and some are just the same old farts. That might sound harsh, but I can only guess here, because I still haven't met my favourite pupil, although the head of languages told him off big time last week and she told me that he was incredibly ashamed and would definitely show up. Well, he didn't which led to me waiting for three hours again (okay, I admit, he had a little help from another pupil who didn't show up) for nothing whatsoever.
I realised that if I cut back on the expenses for DVDs just a bit, I might buy a Playstation 3 in February and send it back with the exchange. But then, I still haven't heard from Sixt who will want money from me at some point, so maybe I shouldn't be making any plans just yet.
Internet is not working regularly anymore. It didn't work last week at all, so I guess the neighbours have decided only to use the internet at the weekend. Thus, it might take me a while to answer messages.
School is still the same, some pupils are nice (especially the ones who tell me they can't make it to their session) and some are just the same old farts. That might sound harsh, but I can only guess here, because I still haven't met my favourite pupil, although the head of languages told him off big time last week and she told me that he was incredibly ashamed and would definitely show up. Well, he didn't which led to me waiting for three hours again (okay, I admit, he had a little help from another pupil who didn't show up) for nothing whatsoever.
I realised that if I cut back on the expenses for DVDs just a bit, I might buy a Playstation 3 in February and send it back with the exchange. But then, I still haven't heard from Sixt who will want money from me at some point, so maybe I shouldn't be making any plans just yet.
Freitag, 28. November 2008
Wooohooo
Three weeks to go until Christmas and I'm looking forward to seeing all of you again. In the meantime I'm worried that customs might give me a hard time at the airport for alleged DVD smuggling. My collection really catches on and I've fallen in love with new directors: Herzog and Lynch are the ones who fascinate me most at the moment.
School is fine, my pupils actually showed up last week, apart from one who had a good reason not to come, since his granddad died the night before. One pupil even asked me to do three extra sessions with her because she will retake her AS in January.
Thomas has invited us for another tartiflette tonight and Sandra and I plan on getting drunk big time. I'll go and buy a bottle of vodka and hope it won't survive the night. We have every reason to get drunk: Ben's parents have just left after a week's visit in which Sandra had to entertain them (including getting up at 5 am today to drop them off at the airport), and Thomas will go back to France on Monday, because he has to take exams and will only be back at the beginning of January. Therefore we have to drink to his health, good luck, Christmas, New Year's Eve, etc.
School is fine, my pupils actually showed up last week, apart from one who had a good reason not to come, since his granddad died the night before. One pupil even asked me to do three extra sessions with her because she will retake her AS in January.
Thomas has invited us for another tartiflette tonight and Sandra and I plan on getting drunk big time. I'll go and buy a bottle of vodka and hope it won't survive the night. We have every reason to get drunk: Ben's parents have just left after a week's visit in which Sandra had to entertain them (including getting up at 5 am today to drop them off at the airport), and Thomas will go back to France on Monday, because he has to take exams and will only be back at the beginning of January. Therefore we have to drink to his health, good luck, Christmas, New Year's Eve, etc.
Sonntag, 23. November 2008
Wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii have fun!
Francois put pictures from his last visit on facebook and I just have to steal them...again ;)
Some more pictures from a night at Bentleys.
What is so interesting?
Wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiihaaaaw!
Some more pictures from a night at Bentleys.
What is so interesting?
Wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiihaaaaw!
Mittwoch, 19. November 2008
Status: pissed off and slightly guilty conscience
God, I'm pissed off. Two pupils whom I should have taught after lunchbreak didn't show up today which means that I could have gone home at 1.15 as opposed to 3.20, but of course they didn't bother telling me about it. In the end, I don't care if they want to take advantage of the opportunity they're given or not, but they could at least be respectful and let me know. Graaaaaaaaaaa!
Apart from that, I also feel a bit guilty about something I don't really have reason to feel guilty about. After two months of trying, Sandra and I have finally given up on asking Cecilia out. She didn't go out with us often, anyway, and when she did, we didn't have the impression that she felt comfortable. More often she had excuses not to come which might have been true, but let us doubt her interest in us, as well. I'm tired is just not a particularly good reason not to go out on a Saturday night. Anyway, she doesn't take initiative on asking us to do something with her, but she seemingly prefers to ask total strangers to go to Cardiff with her, for example, without asking us if we wanted to go. When asked what she was up to lately, she told us about it without hesitating. Then, she told us about a meeting at a church where a lot of international people were, had coffee and got to know each other. Once again, she didn't bother asking us. So, taking all that into account, we stopped trying, as well, and went to see James Bond, yesterday, without her. Although, come to think of it, I told her that we wanted to go and asked if she wanted to come last week. I told her to get back to me if she wanted to. She didn't and I didn't remind her of it, because firstly, she didn't look like she was keen on Bond when I told her and secondly, I didn't want her to make up rubbish excuses. So, she knew about it, but didn't come. However, one of the other teachers asked us if we went to see Quantum of Solace and how it was, and when Sandra and I answered, Cecilia looked a bit disappointed and uncomfortable. Maybe that woke her up. If she is interested in doing stuff with us, she should have realised now that it's up to her now, because I've wasted enough money on suggestions in text messages that were put down by her. Another explanation might be that she simply doesn't like us. Fair enough, I suppose. If it was true, at least I wouldn't have to worry about it anymore.
If anyone understands all of the above, congratulations. Sorry for writing gibberish.
Apart from that, I also feel a bit guilty about something I don't really have reason to feel guilty about. After two months of trying, Sandra and I have finally given up on asking Cecilia out. She didn't go out with us often, anyway, and when she did, we didn't have the impression that she felt comfortable. More often she had excuses not to come which might have been true, but let us doubt her interest in us, as well. I'm tired is just not a particularly good reason not to go out on a Saturday night. Anyway, she doesn't take initiative on asking us to do something with her, but she seemingly prefers to ask total strangers to go to Cardiff with her, for example, without asking us if we wanted to go. When asked what she was up to lately, she told us about it without hesitating. Then, she told us about a meeting at a church where a lot of international people were, had coffee and got to know each other. Once again, she didn't bother asking us. So, taking all that into account, we stopped trying, as well, and went to see James Bond, yesterday, without her. Although, come to think of it, I told her that we wanted to go and asked if she wanted to come last week. I told her to get back to me if she wanted to. She didn't and I didn't remind her of it, because firstly, she didn't look like she was keen on Bond when I told her and secondly, I didn't want her to make up rubbish excuses. So, she knew about it, but didn't come. However, one of the other teachers asked us if we went to see Quantum of Solace and how it was, and when Sandra and I answered, Cecilia looked a bit disappointed and uncomfortable. Maybe that woke her up. If she is interested in doing stuff with us, she should have realised now that it's up to her now, because I've wasted enough money on suggestions in text messages that were put down by her. Another explanation might be that she simply doesn't like us. Fair enough, I suppose. If it was true, at least I wouldn't have to worry about it anymore.
If anyone understands all of the above, congratulations. Sorry for writing gibberish.
Dienstag, 18. November 2008
Ladiladila
Friday was just the usual again: we met at Sandra's where we had a chat before we dropped Ben who had to go to work. After that, Thomas, Sandra and I went to Bentleys once again where we had a very nice conversation that provided further insight into all of our characters, I suppose. At least, I've learnt something about the other two, you know, personal stuff.
The school's drama group performed Jesus Christ Superstar last week, and Cecilia and I went to see it on Saturday evening. Apart from the fact that I don't like the story at all, the performance totally blew me away. Not only were the actors, who were all pupuils, of course, really convincing, but they also impressed me with their singing abilities. The music was played live by the school band, the props were incredibly complex and all in all, it was a good display of the means the school has.
Considering the job, I feel lazy and not like I'm doing a job at all. The upcoming weekend will be a four-day one, because the teachers at Pate's have an inset day on Thursday to which we assistants don't have to go. When I'm at school, I don't feel like I'm working either, since loads of pupils don't show up in the first place. At least, I'm doing useful things in my free lessons like thinking about Christmas presents, eating chocolate, and the like.
Sandra asked Thomas and me round for dinner yesterday, because she doesn't want Ben to miss out on the socialising. Despite what I've heard about Sandra's cooking abilities, the meal was very nice (fresh pasta with a sauce of minced beef, aubergine, tomatoes and onions and incredibly nice Rolo doughnuts for pudding that Thomas brought). Since J+M offered that I might invite the others over as well, I've done so. They'll come round on Friday evening and I still haven't decided what to cook. Sandra has offered to make a quiche lorraine as a starter, though, and I'll make banana split for pudding. Maye I could just leave it at that. Who says you need a main course? While my mind is busy thinking about it, I'm going to drag my body into the cinema tonight, for the new 007 wants to be seen. Yeeehaaaaw!
The school's drama group performed Jesus Christ Superstar last week, and Cecilia and I went to see it on Saturday evening. Apart from the fact that I don't like the story at all, the performance totally blew me away. Not only were the actors, who were all pupuils, of course, really convincing, but they also impressed me with their singing abilities. The music was played live by the school band, the props were incredibly complex and all in all, it was a good display of the means the school has.
Considering the job, I feel lazy and not like I'm doing a job at all. The upcoming weekend will be a four-day one, because the teachers at Pate's have an inset day on Thursday to which we assistants don't have to go. When I'm at school, I don't feel like I'm working either, since loads of pupils don't show up in the first place. At least, I'm doing useful things in my free lessons like thinking about Christmas presents, eating chocolate, and the like.
Sandra asked Thomas and me round for dinner yesterday, because she doesn't want Ben to miss out on the socialising. Despite what I've heard about Sandra's cooking abilities, the meal was very nice (fresh pasta with a sauce of minced beef, aubergine, tomatoes and onions and incredibly nice Rolo doughnuts for pudding that Thomas brought). Since J+M offered that I might invite the others over as well, I've done so. They'll come round on Friday evening and I still haven't decided what to cook. Sandra has offered to make a quiche lorraine as a starter, though, and I'll make banana split for pudding. Maye I could just leave it at that. Who says you need a main course? While my mind is busy thinking about it, I'm going to drag my body into the cinema tonight, for the new 007 wants to be seen. Yeeehaaaaw!
Mittwoch, 12. November 2008
Blunders, theatre and everything else
After I had officially finished my working day, Lorna asked me to correct the essays her year 13 has written on the environment. Apart from the fact that it took me about three hours, the style of some of them was so bad (sentence structure, lack of knowledge how to use a dictionary, etc) that it increasingly worsened my mood. Some of the mistakes are really funny, though, e.g. die Politiker können Steuern erheben, um die Nachfrage für Kohl zu senken. What's cabbage got to do with anything? Hehe.
We went to see Alan Ayckbourn's Absurd Person Singular yesterday and it was brilliant. It's about three English middle class couples (ranging from lower to upper middle class, though) who keep visiting each other on three successive Christmas Eves. A manically cleaning housewife, several unnoticed suicide attempts in a kitchen while four other people fix things in it, dancing on tables and, of course, nice dialogues. It was fun, for me, that is. I do have my doubts if the lady who sat next to me enjoyed it as much, since she had to put up with my constant nose-wiping. I've finally caught a cold and received praise from Lorna, since I am the first German she's met who doesn't run off to the doctor, or even stays at home at the first sign of a sore throat.
Did something rather silly the other day. Inspired by the dressing style of British girls, I wanted to prepare a lesson about it. I was at the school computer and googled 'slutty British girls'. The page with the results got blocked and I realised that once again, I hadn't been particularly clever. I just hope the IT blokes don't check the logfiles...hehe.
We went to see Alan Ayckbourn's Absurd Person Singular yesterday and it was brilliant. It's about three English middle class couples (ranging from lower to upper middle class, though) who keep visiting each other on three successive Christmas Eves. A manically cleaning housewife, several unnoticed suicide attempts in a kitchen while four other people fix things in it, dancing on tables and, of course, nice dialogues. It was fun, for me, that is. I do have my doubts if the lady who sat next to me enjoyed it as much, since she had to put up with my constant nose-wiping. I've finally caught a cold and received praise from Lorna, since I am the first German she's met who doesn't run off to the doctor, or even stays at home at the first sign of a sore throat.
Did something rather silly the other day. Inspired by the dressing style of British girls, I wanted to prepare a lesson about it. I was at the school computer and googled 'slutty British girls'. The page with the results got blocked and I realised that once again, I hadn't been particularly clever. I just hope the IT blokes don't check the logfiles...hehe.
Montag, 10. November 2008
University Challenge
University Challenge is a TV programme hosted by Jeremy Paxman in which two teams of 4 nerds respectively answer questions read out at high speed about topics such as bacteria, admirals, Russian operas, physics etc. Mike likes to watch it and I joined him today. Guess what! I got all the film questions right. I'm such a swot!
News
1. It is easier to get a job at Pate's than to get in as a pupil. 950 pupils applied and took the test last week to get one of the 120 places the school offers. Maybe we should advise the kids to apply for a job there.
2. Ben has finally found a job, even if we could all see him do something better than making sandwiches for Soho Café in the middle of the night (working hours 10pm-5am which keeps him from going out with us at the moment). Still, I'm glad he's got something.
3. I love blunders. Today, a pupil told me: Mein Laptop hat gebrochen. No comment.
4. The Observer magazine had an article about that female serial killer in Germany whose DNA keeps getting found at crime scenes. Bad Kreuznach was mentioned!
5. I missed all the good stuff on Friday evening: meeting three natives, two of which apparently were really handsome, going to the home of one of them for a glass of wine, hiding, because the bloke forgot his keys, had to wake up his parents and didn't want them to know he brought five people to the house and, finally, getting kicked out at 4 am without further warning.
6. The Ladies' College finally had their Guy Fawkes firework display yesterday evening. Was quite nice, but I'm glad I won't be bothered by any more of them for the next 7 weeks.
7. Went to Bentleys again with Sandra, Thomas and Angel, collectively drooled over the hot barkeeper.
8. A propos drooling: Aaron and Veronica, a German/English couple, and friends of J+M, whom I met four years ago, were invited for Sunday lunch and they brought their baby, Elisabeth. They raise the girl bilingually, and hope she'll be able to speak three languages fluently when older: Bavarian, German and English. The only way Aaron practices his German is by watching DSF and reading SportBild. He is quite an avid 1860 München fan and tries to raise his daughter to be one, as well. The poor child has bibs and dummies that sport the 1860 logo and is even a member of the young supporters club. But then, Aaron owns a toaster that burns the logo into the bread. Good fun! They are very nice people, though (even though Aaron hates Jürgen Klopp), and offered to take me along to Stratford whenever they go and they go a lot!
9. After I watched The Cabinet of Dr Caligari yesterday, I now have a wish for Christmas : Von Caligari zu Hitler by Sigfried Kracauer ;)
2. Ben has finally found a job, even if we could all see him do something better than making sandwiches for Soho Café in the middle of the night (working hours 10pm-5am which keeps him from going out with us at the moment). Still, I'm glad he's got something.
3. I love blunders. Today, a pupil told me: Mein Laptop hat gebrochen. No comment.
4. The Observer magazine had an article about that female serial killer in Germany whose DNA keeps getting found at crime scenes. Bad Kreuznach was mentioned!
5. I missed all the good stuff on Friday evening: meeting three natives, two of which apparently were really handsome, going to the home of one of them for a glass of wine, hiding, because the bloke forgot his keys, had to wake up his parents and didn't want them to know he brought five people to the house and, finally, getting kicked out at 4 am without further warning.
6. The Ladies' College finally had their Guy Fawkes firework display yesterday evening. Was quite nice, but I'm glad I won't be bothered by any more of them for the next 7 weeks.
7. Went to Bentleys again with Sandra, Thomas and Angel, collectively drooled over the hot barkeeper.
8. A propos drooling: Aaron and Veronica, a German/English couple, and friends of J+M, whom I met four years ago, were invited for Sunday lunch and they brought their baby, Elisabeth. They raise the girl bilingually, and hope she'll be able to speak three languages fluently when older: Bavarian, German and English. The only way Aaron practices his German is by watching DSF and reading SportBild. He is quite an avid 1860 München fan and tries to raise his daughter to be one, as well. The poor child has bibs and dummies that sport the 1860 logo and is even a member of the young supporters club. But then, Aaron owns a toaster that burns the logo into the bread. Good fun! They are very nice people, though (even though Aaron hates Jürgen Klopp), and offered to take me along to Stratford whenever they go and they go a lot!
9. After I watched The Cabinet of Dr Caligari yesterday, I now have a wish for Christmas : Von Caligari zu Hitler by Sigfried Kracauer ;)
Samstag, 8. November 2008
Rain
Great, Saturday evening and it's raining cats and dogs. I'm not sure if I want to get out there, although I've said to meet Sandra and the others (whoever they are) at 9.45 pm...But after I missed the first contact with English natives our age yesterday, because I left early, I don't want to miss anything tonight. Hrmpf.
Here could be your advertisement
Halfterm is over and I've gone back to work. Since school only started on Wednesday, my working week was rather short, hehe.
Judith and Mike took me to the Cheltenham Film Society on Tuesday evening and we watched a Russian film called The Italian. I'm running out of DVDs I haven't watched yet and the ones I would like to rewatch now I've borrowed to Sandra and Ben. Got to buy some more, apparently.
J+M are taking me to the theatre next Tuesday to see an Alan Ayckburn play (Absurd Person Singular). Yay, culture! Although, I've already enjoyed some culture here: It was Mike's birthday and I gave him a bottle of champagne (30 quid, my wallet is still in pain), but he was kind enough to share it with J. and me. Don't know if it was worth 30 quid, but it was quite nice. And if an expensive bottle of champagne isn't considered culture, I don't know what is.
Some of the other assistants from Gloucestershire came to Cheltenham tonight to go out for a drink, and although I didn't feel that well (and still don't, I think I'm going to be ill), I went along for two hours. The only straight male assistant was there as well, and we had a nice chat about music and films. At first, he made a very good impression on me, being passionate about films (not the Transformers kind, though, but naming Godard as his favourite director) and writing, but in the course of the conversation, he just turned out to be slightly too much in love with himself and his views. One more guy who made my shitlist. Pity; he wasn't unattractive ;)
Judith and Mike took me to the Cheltenham Film Society on Tuesday evening and we watched a Russian film called The Italian. I'm running out of DVDs I haven't watched yet and the ones I would like to rewatch now I've borrowed to Sandra and Ben. Got to buy some more, apparently.
J+M are taking me to the theatre next Tuesday to see an Alan Ayckburn play (Absurd Person Singular). Yay, culture! Although, I've already enjoyed some culture here: It was Mike's birthday and I gave him a bottle of champagne (30 quid, my wallet is still in pain), but he was kind enough to share it with J. and me. Don't know if it was worth 30 quid, but it was quite nice. And if an expensive bottle of champagne isn't considered culture, I don't know what is.
Some of the other assistants from Gloucestershire came to Cheltenham tonight to go out for a drink, and although I didn't feel that well (and still don't, I think I'm going to be ill), I went along for two hours. The only straight male assistant was there as well, and we had a nice chat about music and films. At first, he made a very good impression on me, being passionate about films (not the Transformers kind, though, but naming Godard as his favourite director) and writing, but in the course of the conversation, he just turned out to be slightly too much in love with himself and his views. One more guy who made my shitlist. Pity; he wasn't unattractive ;)
Sonntag, 2. November 2008
Baby in the House
Two of my host parents' three children came to visit for the weekend. Rachel took her one year old baby, Poppy, who brought so much life into the house. It's amazing how much you can laugh just by observing a child that age. Apart from Poppy, the others also amused me with their comments on her actions. She grabbed Private Eye at one point, a satire mag, probably comparable to the German Titanic, and since she wasn't really interested, she threw it away again. Tim commented: 'You're right, it's not as good as it used to be.'
As lovely as Poppy is during the day, I don't want to spend any more nights sleeping next to her, though. Her bed was put in front of my door the first night and she started crying at 5 o'clock in the morning. Since Judith anticipated that might happen, I grabbed the ear plugs that she wisely left on my nightstand and they helped me sleep until 12 pm, hehe.
As lovely as Poppy is during the day, I don't want to spend any more nights sleeping next to her, though. Her bed was put in front of my door the first night and she started crying at 5 o'clock in the morning. Since Judith anticipated that might happen, I grabbed the ear plugs that she wisely left on my nightstand and they helped me sleep until 12 pm, hehe.
Samstag, 1. November 2008
Random Assortment of Pictures
Since I still don't own a camera, but want to show you a few pictures, I've simply taken some from Sandra's facebook album ;)
It's alive!
On the right: Thomas, the French assistant in Charlton Kings and his boyfriend, Francois.
Sandra and Ben whom I've successfully got addicted to Rum Coke.
Sam, one of Pate's German teachers, whom we met at Bentleys.
Sometime last week at the Copa (not THAT Copa, though ;) ).
Last Thursday at Thomas' place where Francois treated us to his tartiflette (probably not correctly spelt, but then, I'm in England, not in France).
It's alive!
On the right: Thomas, the French assistant in Charlton Kings and his boyfriend, Francois.
Sandra and Ben whom I've successfully got addicted to Rum Coke.
Sam, one of Pate's German teachers, whom we met at Bentleys.
Sometime last week at the Copa (not THAT Copa, though ;) ).
Last Thursday at Thomas' place where Francois treated us to his tartiflette (probably not correctly spelt, but then, I'm in England, not in France).
Dienstag, 28. Oktober 2008
Spontaneous? Me? I don't believe it!
I had my evening all planned out, yesterday. That is, I knew which films I wanted to watch. I was right in the middle of Pan's Labyrinth when my phone started making these funny noises that I was used to hearing back in Germany. At the other end of the line was Sandra telling me that Thomas wants to go out for a drink and that they could pick me up in five minutes. Believe it or not, I didn't think of a lousy excuse but actually switched off my laptop, got dressed properly and went along. We ended up in a very nice bar that made quite a fancy impression, brown leather sofas, a pool table, 42'' plasmas on the walls aaaand the best thing was definitely the Wii you could play for free. Guess what we did? I enjoyed Mario Kart so much that I might just have to get a Wii when my time in England is up. A PS3, as well, by the way, but that is another subject...as well as the new flat I'll need to store all my new stuff in.
I'm working a bit in the house today, since J+M will return tomorrow. Although it is raining, I'll have to pop round to Waitrose to buy stuff to replace what I ate during their absence.
Tonight, Sandra and I will go and see Saw V from which I don't expect a lot, though. Thomas invited us to his flat for Thursday evening, and we'll go clubbing on Friday. As you can see, I'm keeping myself busy.
I'm working a bit in the house today, since J+M will return tomorrow. Although it is raining, I'll have to pop round to Waitrose to buy stuff to replace what I ate during their absence.
Tonight, Sandra and I will go and see Saw V from which I don't expect a lot, though. Thomas invited us to his flat for Thursday evening, and we'll go clubbing on Friday. As you can see, I'm keeping myself busy.
Sonntag, 26. Oktober 2008
Halloween Thingy
One of the teachers, Sam, invited us to a Halloween gettogether in Bushley and we (that is Sandra, Cecilia and me) went there yesterday. First of all, Bushley is in the middle of nowhere (Worcestershire). Then, since it was a Halloween party, we had to dress up, so the two French girls bought witch hats and I got a rubbish vampire cape and teeth. It wasn't a real party, though (at least not what I think of as a party), there was a seating plan (our table which we shared with another Pate's teacher and her boyfriend was called Pate's Posse) and after the meal (pig roast with potatoes, a roll and salad - a bit dry) Sam's band started to play. They were really good and Sam's a fantastic singer, but we couldn't help being bored. We sat at the table, listened to the music, but when you don't know anybody and you're sitting in a room with 150 people who are either dancing or sitting at their tables themselves, it does get a bit boring. It just wasn't a proper opportunity to get to know others. I had my first Guiness on British ground for the year, though
I think the actress who played Madame Maxime in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was there, as well, and if it wasn't her, that woman looked a lot liker her.
Anyway, we left just after midnight and I watched one of my newly acquired DVDs when I got home. Went to bed at 4, pardon, 3 and had a nice lie-in this morning. Plans for the rest of the day? None, except watching more DVDs, taking a bath, eating and sleeping.
I think the actress who played Madame Maxime in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was there, as well, and if it wasn't her, that woman looked a lot liker her.
Anyway, we left just after midnight and I watched one of my newly acquired DVDs when I got home. Went to bed at 4, pardon, 3 and had a nice lie-in this morning. Plans for the rest of the day? None, except watching more DVDs, taking a bath, eating and sleeping.
Samstag, 25. Oktober 2008
Update
22.10.08
Two colleagues gave me some German essays to correct the other day. One was apparently done by google translations, for I didn't understand a word the bloke was trying to express. Some were really good, though, and some others made me laugh hard. One of the topics was Wenn du in Deutschland wählen dürftest, für welche Partei würdest du stimmen? Apart from the fact that they don't seem to have any idea about German politics (Ich würde entweder Die Grünen oder die FDP wählen...because they share the same aims, right), some got their vocab muddled up: Die CDU ist eine gute Party. Sie unterhält die Familienwerte... Otherwise everything is rosy. Received a postcard from Sydney saying that J+M are enjoying their trip, spent my last cash at Tesco, for I haven't received my first salary yet (and which is only due on the 25th. Patience is a virtue, right?), so I'll have to get my Sparkasse card out once more and 70 minutes of work is all that's standing between me and halfterm.
What else is happening in England? The English football team won its qualification match in Kazahkztan (or however you spell it), A Quantum of Solace and Saw V will be released soon and some atheist society has bought advertisement space on London's busses where the slogan There probably is no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life! will be displayed from January onwards. You see, life's rosy.
People complaining about the Deutsche Telekom should come over and try to open a BT line here. Sandra and Ben have been waiting for ages now and all they are told is It'll work tomorrow or Next week, I promise.
Two colleagues gave me some German essays to correct the other day. One was apparently done by google translations, for I didn't understand a word the bloke was trying to express. Some were really good, though, and some others made me laugh hard. One of the topics was Wenn du in Deutschland wählen dürftest, für welche Partei würdest du stimmen? Apart from the fact that they don't seem to have any idea about German politics (Ich würde entweder Die Grünen oder die FDP wählen...because they share the same aims, right), some got their vocab muddled up: Die CDU ist eine gute Party. Sie unterhält die Familienwerte... Otherwise everything is rosy. Received a postcard from Sydney saying that J+M are enjoying their trip, spent my last cash at Tesco, for I haven't received my first salary yet (and which is only due on the 25th. Patience is a virtue, right?), so I'll have to get my Sparkasse card out once more and 70 minutes of work is all that's standing between me and halfterm.
What else is happening in England? The English football team won its qualification match in Kazahkztan (or however you spell it), A Quantum of Solace and Saw V will be released soon and some atheist society has bought advertisement space on London's busses where the slogan There probably is no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life! will be displayed from January onwards. You see, life's rosy.
People complaining about the Deutsche Telekom should come over and try to open a BT line here. Sandra and Ben have been waiting for ages now and all they are told is It'll work tomorrow or Next week, I promise.
Freitag, 24. Oktober 2008
Internet down
The neighbours' wireless doesn't work at the moment and I might therefore be a bit unreliable when it comes to answering emails. I have to use Mike's computer and it doesn't like GMX. The Internet Explorer shuts down whenever I want to access the page. Pate's computers block it as well, so I'll keep my fingers crossed that the neighbours restart the router one of these days.
Otherwise, I'm fine. It's halfterm now, Sandra, Ben and me got drunk on German wine yesterday (which we all loved) and we're going out with Thomas and his boyfriend tonight.
Otherwise, I'm fine. It's halfterm now, Sandra, Ben and me got drunk on German wine yesterday (which we all loved) and we're going out with Thomas and his boyfriend tonight.
Montag, 20. Oktober 2008
Weekend
Spent another evening at Sandra's place at the weekend. Ben treated us to his cooking again which we all enjoyed. Played that funny 'who am I' game which - as you can see - made us all look ridiculous. I was completely lost at one point, because I didn't even know the guy I was. I do know now, though. If you feel up to it, google the name Rocco Siffredi. He seems to have quite a reputation ;) After that, the conversational level fell until we finally arrived at the topic we've all been waiting to discuss. No questions necessary.
The guy sitting next to me on the couch is Thomas, by the way, another French assistant whom we met at the training session last Wednesday. Cool bloke, and there'll be more of him. Not in quite THAT sense, though, since we'll meet his boyfriend on Friday ;)
The German exchange from KH arrived today and I've received a nice package from home (including Nürnberger Lebkuchen, an Advent calendar which I'm not allowed to open before Dec. 6 for whatever reason ;) ). Thanks, mum and dad.
The guy sitting next to me on the couch is Thomas, by the way, another French assistant whom we met at the training session last Wednesday. Cool bloke, and there'll be more of him. Not in quite THAT sense, though, since we'll meet his boyfriend on Friday ;)
The German exchange from KH arrived today and I've received a nice package from home (including Nürnberger Lebkuchen, an Advent calendar which I'm not allowed to open before Dec. 6 for whatever reason ;) ). Thanks, mum and dad.
Freitag, 17. Oktober 2008
Just another day in October
School can be brilliant. I mean, apart from teaching even more secret service kids that is. I asked a pupil what his parents do for a living. First of all, he mistook the question for what his parents liked doing, but I didn't delve into that matter. It was his answer that made me laugh. To my ears it sounded a lot like: Meine Mutter macht Haufen. My first thought was 'Why are you telling me?', but after I convincingly disguised my laughter as a hiccough, I asked him what he meant. Meine Mutter mag einkaufen was his answer and I realised the pure comedy gold that I had been treated to.
Then, there is yet another episode of 'The world is a village': Talked to a girl whose mother is German and who has been raised bilingually. She told me about her family and that she has a younger sister named Georgina. That rang a bell - I did a work experience at a local primary school in Cheltenham four years ago and there was a girl in my class whose mother was German and I remembered her name, Georgina. There is this theory that says everyone can be connected to everyone else in the world using only six steps. I can go to J.R.R. Tolkien in only three. I know Pat and Frank Smith (the neighbours I've been in invited to), they know Tolkien's daughter, Priscilla, because she used to run a book club which the Smith's daughter attended and ultimately became friends with her.
I felt lucky yesterday, lucky enough to buy British beef burgers that ended up in my stomach as delicious quarterpounders with cheese.
Oh, and by the way, mum, dad, I've watched The Curse of the Golden Flower that you gave me for my birthday and it reminded me alarmingly of House of Flying Daggers. Take that information for what it's worth.
Then, there is yet another episode of 'The world is a village': Talked to a girl whose mother is German and who has been raised bilingually. She told me about her family and that she has a younger sister named Georgina. That rang a bell - I did a work experience at a local primary school in Cheltenham four years ago and there was a girl in my class whose mother was German and I remembered her name, Georgina. There is this theory that says everyone can be connected to everyone else in the world using only six steps. I can go to J.R.R. Tolkien in only three. I know Pat and Frank Smith (the neighbours I've been in invited to), they know Tolkien's daughter, Priscilla, because she used to run a book club which the Smith's daughter attended and ultimately became friends with her.
I felt lucky yesterday, lucky enough to buy British beef burgers that ended up in my stomach as delicious quarterpounders with cheese.
Oh, and by the way, mum, dad, I've watched The Curse of the Golden Flower that you gave me for my birthday and it reminded me alarmingly of House of Flying Daggers. Take that information for what it's worth.
Mittwoch, 15. Oktober 2008
Assistant Training
Had our 'training session' at Pate's today, which was more of a gettogether of all the assistants in Gloucestershire than a training session. Still, we got some information in between the coffee break and lunch. Lorna provided us with a range of websites and ideas of how to tackle topics which I found very helpful, yet it'll have to be put to the test next week. I feel well-informed about the English school system, as well as the expectations the students have to meet in their exams.
Meeting the other assistants was nice, although there are only three chaps of which one definitely and another probably is gay (although I don't want to indulge in prejudices, he was just soooo cliché, he must be.). There go my male contacts again ;). Considering the percentage of men among the assistants, I've drawn the conclusion that assistantship is quite a girlish thing to do. The two gay blokes also live in Cheltenham and will probably accompany us for a drink next weekend.
Then, there was another incident in the series 'The world is a village': I introduced myself to one of the other Germans who actually also studies English in Mainz.
I finally set foot in the garden today to take out the compost (which was overdue, unfortunately...) and saw that there is still produce hanging about, so I harvested (hehe) some green beans (or runner beans, as Mike has taught me, it's always good to know synonyms, even if it is gardening vocab), a cucumber and a courgette. See how healthy I'm living? You don't have to know about the crème fraîche and cream I used to get some sauce, though.
Right, I'll have to be in at 12ish tomorrow, assist in a year 10 and a year 11 and then I'm off to the weekend. Did I already mention that I like having extended weekends every week?
BTW, neither me nor my butt can be seen on pictures I've uploaded on this blog. The pictures also make no claim to be artsy, but want to give you a bit of an impression of what my life looks like, and I think they fulfill that task, even though the quality could be better, I admit ;)
Meeting the other assistants was nice, although there are only three chaps of which one definitely and another probably is gay (although I don't want to indulge in prejudices, he was just soooo cliché, he must be.). There go my male contacts again ;). Considering the percentage of men among the assistants, I've drawn the conclusion that assistantship is quite a girlish thing to do. The two gay blokes also live in Cheltenham and will probably accompany us for a drink next weekend.
Then, there was another incident in the series 'The world is a village': I introduced myself to one of the other Germans who actually also studies English in Mainz.
I finally set foot in the garden today to take out the compost (which was overdue, unfortunately...) and saw that there is still produce hanging about, so I harvested (hehe) some green beans (or runner beans, as Mike has taught me, it's always good to know synonyms, even if it is gardening vocab), a cucumber and a courgette. See how healthy I'm living? You don't have to know about the crème fraîche and cream I used to get some sauce, though.
Right, I'll have to be in at 12ish tomorrow, assist in a year 10 and a year 11 and then I'm off to the weekend. Did I already mention that I like having extended weekends every week?
BTW, neither me nor my butt can be seen on pictures I've uploaded on this blog. The pictures also make no claim to be artsy, but want to give you a bit of an impression of what my life looks like, and I think they fulfill that task, even though the quality could be better, I admit ;)
Sonntag, 12. Oktober 2008
Golfing? I wish
Cinema yesterday was fun. We watched Tropic Thunder, which is not only a really nice parody on every war movie there has ever been, but also about Hollywood in general from its constant sequels to the spoilt stars.
Due to the nice weather, we finally wanted to go golfing, but what did we have to find out? They are closed for the season. Not that I hadn't thought about the possibility, but since their website didn't say anything about that, I just assumed they were open! F**k! We just strolled through the park instead.
We watched a few minutes of a women's rugby match, though, which was boring, since they didn't tackle each other as much as I would have expected them to.
Members of my family (incl. Bex) might remember the lake...
You might want to refrain from drinking alcohol in the park...
Went into town afterwards, I did some Sunday shopping and we had a coffee at Starbucks. That's a miracle, I've actually started drinking that stuff, although I'm still stuck on some kind of mixes like Cafe Latte, Espressochoc, but I'm getting there.
Due to the nice weather, we finally wanted to go golfing, but what did we have to find out? They are closed for the season. Not that I hadn't thought about the possibility, but since their website didn't say anything about that, I just assumed they were open! F**k! We just strolled through the park instead.
We watched a few minutes of a women's rugby match, though, which was boring, since they didn't tackle each other as much as I would have expected them to.
Members of my family (incl. Bex) might remember the lake...
You might want to refrain from drinking alcohol in the park...
Went into town afterwards, I did some Sunday shopping and we had a coffee at Starbucks. That's a miracle, I've actually started drinking that stuff, although I'm still stuck on some kind of mixes like Cafe Latte, Espressochoc, but I'm getting there.
Samstag, 11. Oktober 2008
Invitations all over
On Thursday evening, I was invited to Marijke's place, well at least the place where she (and Cecilia, by the way) lives. They stay with a woman and her two sons who own quite a big house and rent out the spare rooms. Apart from those two, there also lives a German student, a girl from Taiwan, the housemaid and her twin sister, a security bloke, two disabled people and five cats. I might have forgotten someone here, but I suppose you get the idea. We had pizza for supper (quite an early one, at 6 p.m., but then, the youngest son is only 10), and after a short fight between Marijke and Samson (or Sampson?) over some chocolate, we went to the TV room to watch Finding Nemo. It was nice to see a film on a big telly for a change:
It was one of those old flatscreens, though, without any HD certificates, so the quality wasn't overwhelming, and as you can see the 5.1 isn't set up the way it should be, and still it was so much better than what I've come to get used to (laptop + headphones).
Samson (you can see his back on the pic) completely made my day. He's 13, goes to Pate's and has an incredibly British sense of humour. Just the way he delivers his comments cracked me up every time. Hope to see more of him!
I think, Marijke has a good time in the house. It's good to have natives around that you can talk English to. Samson also has a very gentle way of correcting Marijke which is quite amazing, considering his age. Marijke's father and brother have come over for the weekend to celebrate her 16th birthday.
Yesterday evening, I was invited to the Smiths who live right next to Christchurch. They also are elderly people, but I really enjoyed being among natives again and having a nice chat. They reminded me a lot of Judith and Mike, especially when Frank asked me if I wanted a sherry as an aperitif. They also say words like 'golly' and 'gosh' which seems to a generational thing ;). We had the wine I had brought as a thank you present with the incredibly tasty risotto (with prawns...hmmm....). They offered to take me to Oxford when they visit one of their daughters and I'd really like to go. I had to break up the evening at half eight...
We're interrupting the programme for a short quiz: Who wants to be a millionaire?
Q: What does half eight mean in English?
a. 7.30
b. 8.30
c. Both
d. Neither
...because I was meeting Sandra and Ben in town for yet another drink. I stuck to my self-set rules and had only caffeine-free drinks: beer (first time this year I ordered a pint) and a Vodka Martini (the look on the bartender's face made me think that he was expecting us to make that silly old James Bond joke, but we didn't. We only asked for another shot of vodka into our martini...). Our conversation mostly centred on food, so I had to have a sandwich when I got home. Learned some French again: J'ai la dalle. Good thing to say when you're starving.
Plans for tonight: Going to the cinema to watch Tropic Thunder.
Edit:
I never thought I'd be kinda smiling upon hearing of the death of a fellow human being, but what I read on SpiegelOnline this morning did the trick. That's also a way to solve problems. I am a bad person!
It was one of those old flatscreens, though, without any HD certificates, so the quality wasn't overwhelming, and as you can see the 5.1 isn't set up the way it should be, and still it was so much better than what I've come to get used to (laptop + headphones).Samson (you can see his back on the pic) completely made my day. He's 13, goes to Pate's and has an incredibly British sense of humour. Just the way he delivers his comments cracked me up every time. Hope to see more of him!
I think, Marijke has a good time in the house. It's good to have natives around that you can talk English to. Samson also has a very gentle way of correcting Marijke which is quite amazing, considering his age. Marijke's father and brother have come over for the weekend to celebrate her 16th birthday.
Yesterday evening, I was invited to the Smiths who live right next to Christchurch. They also are elderly people, but I really enjoyed being among natives again and having a nice chat. They reminded me a lot of Judith and Mike, especially when Frank asked me if I wanted a sherry as an aperitif. They also say words like 'golly' and 'gosh' which seems to a generational thing ;). We had the wine I had brought as a thank you present with the incredibly tasty risotto (with prawns...hmmm....). They offered to take me to Oxford when they visit one of their daughters and I'd really like to go. I had to break up the evening at half eight...
We're interrupting the programme for a short quiz: Who wants to be a millionaire?
Q: What does half eight mean in English?
a. 7.30
b. 8.30
c. Both
d. Neither
...because I was meeting Sandra and Ben in town for yet another drink. I stuck to my self-set rules and had only caffeine-free drinks: beer (first time this year I ordered a pint) and a Vodka Martini (the look on the bartender's face made me think that he was expecting us to make that silly old James Bond joke, but we didn't. We only asked for another shot of vodka into our martini...). Our conversation mostly centred on food, so I had to have a sandwich when I got home. Learned some French again: J'ai la dalle. Good thing to say when you're starving.
Plans for tonight: Going to the cinema to watch Tropic Thunder.
Edit:
I never thought I'd be kinda smiling upon hearing of the death of a fellow human being, but what I read on SpiegelOnline this morning did the trick. That's also a way to solve problems. I am a bad person!
Naughty Pupils
There are times when I think something is seriously wrong with me. Like the other day when I woke up at 4 a.m. humming the Speedy Gonzalez theme (*bidibi-bidibo-die schnellste Maus von Mexiko*). Then there are times when I think something is seriously wrong with others. I asked a few of my pupils what their parents do for a living and, of course, some of them are working at GCHQ, which is one of the biggest employers in the area (Government Communications Headquarters or 'doughnut' as the locals call it. Guess why:
So, two of the pupils told me their fathers worked there, but neither of them could tell me what exactly they do, because they are not allowed to know. Top secret, you understand. That's brilliant, I'm probably teaching James Bond's children.
School wasn't exactly a pleasure on Wednesday and Thursday, because two pupils didn't think it necessary to show up for their German oral which left me waiting for 3 hours respectively until my next lesson started. In any German school I know, the pupils would be told off (which they will be) and the missed lesson would just be their bad luck and a missed opportunity. Pate's, however, wants the pupils to do well. The consequence for me is that I have to meet the culprits next week and therefore work more than I normally would have. Thanks for wasting my time!
So, two of the pupils told me their fathers worked there, but neither of them could tell me what exactly they do, because they are not allowed to know. Top secret, you understand. That's brilliant, I'm probably teaching James Bond's children.School wasn't exactly a pleasure on Wednesday and Thursday, because two pupils didn't think it necessary to show up for their German oral which left me waiting for 3 hours respectively until my next lesson started. In any German school I know, the pupils would be told off (which they will be) and the missed lesson would just be their bad luck and a missed opportunity. Pate's, however, wants the pupils to do well. The consequence for me is that I have to meet the culprits next week and therefore work more than I normally would have. Thanks for wasting my time!
Dienstag, 7. Oktober 2008
Random, once again
Took the bus to school today and I've noticed yet another curiosity about the English. People thank the driver when getting off the bus here! Although one explanation might be that the passengers are simply glad to be still alive (not too improbable from what I've experienced so far), my other observations lead to a different explanation: I think the Brits are just more polite than the Germans. The phrase 'thank you' can be heard all over, so it's not surprise to hear it on the bus. But then, I want to be thanked for for paying 1.50 for a one way trip. By the way, my bus ticket always says 'Adult Single'. Great, it's not bad enough that the bus driver knows, he also has to rub it in. Thanks, mate.
The weather pisses me off. When I looked outside the window this morning, it was raining, so I took my coat, but as soon as I stepped out of the house I realised that the temperature was quite mild despite the heavy rain and wind. While the coat did protect me from the rain, I sweated underneath, which is not how it is supposed to be, is it? Went to Waitose to do some shopping after school and got a free shower on my way home. Quite silly actually, since I had an umbrella in my bag, but my hands were busy carrying shopping bags, so I got soaked.
School was unspectacular, although some pupils of year 10 amused me, for they are clearly in the middle of puberty: lost for words, blushing, and giggling on the way out. They probably couldn't believe that they just spoke German.
The weather pisses me off. When I looked outside the window this morning, it was raining, so I took my coat, but as soon as I stepped out of the house I realised that the temperature was quite mild despite the heavy rain and wind. While the coat did protect me from the rain, I sweated underneath, which is not how it is supposed to be, is it? Went to Waitose to do some shopping after school and got a free shower on my way home. Quite silly actually, since I had an umbrella in my bag, but my hands were busy carrying shopping bags, so I got soaked.
School was unspectacular, although some pupils of year 10 amused me, for they are clearly in the middle of puberty: lost for words, blushing, and giggling on the way out. They probably couldn't believe that they just spoke German.
Sonntag, 5. Oktober 2008
No golf today, my love has gone away...
Rightyright, it's raining so we're not going to golf today. I just hope, we'll get a few nice autumn days in the weeks to come that we can make up for it. I'll have to spend my day with the odd film then, although I also know that I should do some ironing. When I woke up I realised I also have some preparation for tomorrow's lessons to do, but what did I see when I looked at my timetable? Three students to talk to whom I haven't met yet, so I'll just ask them about themselves. Will be able to go home at 11ish.
I was at Sandra's place yesterday and I'm really glad we get along as well as we do. Cecilia was also invited, of course, but she didn't come because she wasn't feeling well. I just hope that that was the truth, because if she prefers to stick to herself, it might turn out to be a lonely eight months for her. We'll just have to wait and see.
Ben made some Uncle Ben's ready-made sauce with chicken and rice which was kinda spicy, something my tongue isn't used to anymore, but it was really good and I was glad to get something decent to eat after I screwed up my Nudel-Schinken-Gratin at lunch. I really have to figure out how to handle the oven properly. After the main course, the two of them turned out to be really French when Sandra got some cheese out (the package even said Coeur de Lion and I was, once again, reminded of my dad). It wasn't one of the smelly ones, though.
I was at Sandra's place yesterday and I'm really glad we get along as well as we do. Cecilia was also invited, of course, but she didn't come because she wasn't feeling well. I just hope that that was the truth, because if she prefers to stick to herself, it might turn out to be a lonely eight months for her. We'll just have to wait and see.
Ben made some Uncle Ben's ready-made sauce with chicken and rice which was kinda spicy, something my tongue isn't used to anymore, but it was really good and I was glad to get something decent to eat after I screwed up my Nudel-Schinken-Gratin at lunch. I really have to figure out how to handle the oven properly. After the main course, the two of them turned out to be really French when Sandra got some cheese out (the package even said Coeur de Lion and I was, once again, reminded of my dad). It wasn't one of the smelly ones, though.
Samstag, 4. Oktober 2008
Come to Cheltenham and live out your Nazi fantasies
Look what the Cheltonians have learnt from Prince Harry:
http://www.spiegel.de/unispiegel/studium/0,1518,581917,00.html
http://www.spiegel.de/unispiegel/studium/0,1518,581917,00.html
The Disadvantages of Drinking
Remind me not to drink Red Bull again when I go out. I lay awake for two hours, yesterday; fully conscious. Lying there, I started thinking in French, building French sentences, and I wasn't even drunk. My French seems to slowly come back to me which is no surprise when you spend time with three people who start babbling in French when they talk to each other.
Although Cecilia is nice enough, she either seems to be really shy and as though she needs some time to warm up or maybe she simply is a quiet person. Apparently, she is not used to drinking alcohol, since she didn't even know what to order at the pub. When Sandra, Ben and me got started, she was already done for the evening. Not that she was drunk, she just didn't want anything else after her first drink, not even a soda. Not so for Sandra and me. There are signs that indicate that you drink too much; if the bartender recognises your face and asks whether you want the same again, you should question your consumption. The same goes for you knowing exactly what the combination for all of you will cost, you tell the bartender how much it is and have the money ready.
Ben and Sandra have invited us over for dinner today and I told them I'd bring some beer (at least, I'll be able to sleep). Looking out of the window, though, I don't feel like going to the supermarket at all. It doesn't rain, but is windy as hell and I don't quite fancy that. But then, I'm looking forward to Ben's cooking, so the trip to Waitrose might be worth the effort.
Although Cecilia is nice enough, she either seems to be really shy and as though she needs some time to warm up or maybe she simply is a quiet person. Apparently, she is not used to drinking alcohol, since she didn't even know what to order at the pub. When Sandra, Ben and me got started, she was already done for the evening. Not that she was drunk, she just didn't want anything else after her first drink, not even a soda. Not so for Sandra and me. There are signs that indicate that you drink too much; if the bartender recognises your face and asks whether you want the same again, you should question your consumption. The same goes for you knowing exactly what the combination for all of you will cost, you tell the bartender how much it is and have the money ready.
Ben and Sandra have invited us over for dinner today and I told them I'd bring some beer (at least, I'll be able to sleep). Looking out of the window, though, I don't feel like going to the supermarket at all. It doesn't rain, but is windy as hell and I don't quite fancy that. But then, I'm looking forward to Ben's cooking, so the trip to Waitrose might be worth the effort.
Freitag, 3. Oktober 2008
That's a way to celebrate a national holiday
I spent a rather lazy day today, again. Woke up, had a nostalgia breakfast (with half a grapefruit and a small packet of Coco Pops - we used to have those small packets when we were in Cheltenham 15 years ago and I've always loved them),
opened Thomas's packet and laughed my arse off,
started the washing machine and after 10 days of my self-set detox, I finally granted myself a go into HMV and returned with an Alfred Hitchcock boxset including 14 of his films. Had a nice sandwich (ham, chaddar and mustard) and then went to the surgery to get a form for a blood check (yeah, it is a bit bureaucratic indeed).
I met Cecilia, the other French assistant, yesterday, and together with Sandra and Benjamin, we've arranged to go out for a drink tonight, meet at Sandra's tomorrow and go golfing on Sunday (PC, I don't want to hear a complaint). Let's see if my golfing skills match my brother's.
opened Thomas's packet and laughed my arse off,
started the washing machine and after 10 days of my self-set detox, I finally granted myself a go into HMV and returned with an Alfred Hitchcock boxset including 14 of his films. Had a nice sandwich (ham, chaddar and mustard) and then went to the surgery to get a form for a blood check (yeah, it is a bit bureaucratic indeed).
I met Cecilia, the other French assistant, yesterday, and together with Sandra and Benjamin, we've arranged to go out for a drink tonight, meet at Sandra's tomorrow and go golfing on Sunday (PC, I don't want to hear a complaint). Let's see if my golfing skills match my brother's.
Mittwoch, 1. Oktober 2008
First Day: Survived
It my
first day as an assistant teacher at Pate's Grammar
School today. I by bus because it is a long walk to get
there. I five groups today and the pupils very
nice. But then the other students . Why they
me? They my time! Grml! We about the
English school system and they me that there are four
periods of 70 minutes which are split into lessons of 35 minutes.
Lorna, my tutor me my timetable and Thursdays and
Fridays are my favourite days of the week already, because Friday
is my day off: I will have a long weekend every week, yay!
School today. I by bus because it is a long walk to get
there. I five groups today and the pupils very
nice. But then the other students . Why they
me? They my time! Grml! We about the
English school system and they me that there are four
periods of 70 minutes which are split into lessons of 35 minutes.
Lorna, my tutor me my timetable and Thursdays and
Fridays are my favourite days of the week already, because Friday
is my day off: I will have a long weekend every week, yay!
I
the lunch break in the staff room and
at what
the teachers about...
the teachers about...
First Day: Survived
Just came in from my first day at school and I think it went quite alright. I had five 'groups' today of which only one turned out to be a group of two whereas the other students came on their own. Two of them really impressed me with their command of the German language while the others seemed to be either shy or not as good in German as the other two ;). One of the students is Deputy Head Boy which is another thing not made up by J.K. Rowling, by the way ;). I've realised that I don't have any idea as to how the English school system works. At least, I found out that there are four periods of 70 minutes which are split into lessons of 35 minutes and that I can go home at 3.30ish at the latest.
Lorna also gave me my timetable and I suppose that Thursday and Friday are my favourite days of the week already, since Friday is my day off (long weekend every week, yay!) and I don't have to come in until 12 o'clock on Thursdays. The timetable might magically fill up in the course of the month, though.
I spend the lunch break in the staff room and was quite amazed what the staff talked about...something about a TV programme that praised the female body. In the programme, polygamous women apparently were running about naked and eventually moving into a German 'free love for everyone' commune. I was warned that this was a normal lunchtime chat. Not that I'd mind, I just didn't expect that.
My PIN number for my debit card was in the post as well as a fancy PINsentry machine that I'll need to do online banking. Since I still don't have my card (or money on the account, for that matter), it just doesn't do me any good at the moment ;)
Viki, have you noticed that Harry P. was born in 1980 and his parents were only 20 when they had him?
Lorna also gave me my timetable and I suppose that Thursday and Friday are my favourite days of the week already, since Friday is my day off (long weekend every week, yay!) and I don't have to come in until 12 o'clock on Thursdays. The timetable might magically fill up in the course of the month, though.
I spend the lunch break in the staff room and was quite amazed what the staff talked about...something about a TV programme that praised the female body. In the programme, polygamous women apparently were running about naked and eventually moving into a German 'free love for everyone' commune. I was warned that this was a normal lunchtime chat. Not that I'd mind, I just didn't expect that.
My PIN number for my debit card was in the post as well as a fancy PINsentry machine that I'll need to do online banking. Since I still don't have my card (or money on the account, for that matter), it just doesn't do me any good at the moment ;)
Viki, have you noticed that Harry P. was born in 1980 and his parents were only 20 when they had him?
Dienstag, 30. September 2008
Goodbye freedom
This is the last blog entry I write in absolute freedom, since I'll have to go to work tomorrow, which also means getting up kinda early (although school here starts at a friendlier time than it does in Germany). Lorna asked me to prepare an introduction lesson for year 12 and 13. I'll teach only small groups in which there are 3 pupils max., at least tomorrow, that is. I am excited as well as nervous about the job which is probably quite normal when you start something where you hold the 'new kid in school' position. I've prepared a little game with which the pupils will get to know me, I'll get to know them and most importantly, I'll get to hear how good their German is. I hope it'll work out well...
Sandra complained about the delayed start of the French assistants (which is apparently only next Monday), whereas I wouldn't mind having a few more days off. On the other hand, it's good to have something to do, I suppose.
Come to think of it, the title for this entry might not be accurate, because Judith and Mike left for Australia yesterday and I have the house to myself for the next month. But then, the two of them have never restricted me in any way, so the title probably is correctly chosen. Don't mind me...I'm just talking gibberish.
Reliable German sources tell me that my beloved Nudel-Schinken-Gratin also missed me and has therefore found its way into an envelope addressed to Cheltenham. The letter from the car rental company, however, didn't hold any vital information (about the crash, for instance), but ads. Idiots...
Sandra complained about the delayed start of the French assistants (which is apparently only next Monday), whereas I wouldn't mind having a few more days off. On the other hand, it's good to have something to do, I suppose.
Come to think of it, the title for this entry might not be accurate, because Judith and Mike left for Australia yesterday and I have the house to myself for the next month. But then, the two of them have never restricted me in any way, so the title probably is correctly chosen. Don't mind me...I'm just talking gibberish.
Reliable German sources tell me that my beloved Nudel-Schinken-Gratin also missed me and has therefore found its way into an envelope addressed to Cheltenham. The letter from the car rental company, however, didn't hold any vital information (about the crash, for instance), but ads. Idiots...
Sonntag, 28. September 2008
Saturday Night
Just came back from a drinking tour with Sandra and Benjamin, her boyfriend. I'm not as drunk as I would have expected me to be after five Vodka Red Bulls, but there you go. My genes must have somehow adapted to the British standard. Next week, I'll be going in a mini skirt that barely covers my genitalia, so I won't stand out in the masses. We went to Wetherspoons at first, a pub that I used to go to with my Bookworld colleagues, but it has transformed into a club or a pub with a dancefloor, whatever you want to call it. I texted Jaqui to ask her what that was about and she told me that she doesn't even go there anymore because it's horrible nowadays. Thanks for telling me :P Anyway, since it was way too loud to talk to each other, we went to a real pub after our first drinks. At some point, we decided that we have to have a look at the golf courses in town one of these days, for I remember playing golf here about 13 years ago, so there definitely is one around. We should go there and hit a few balls soon.
Some things to be done in the following months apart from playing golf:
- visit Cheltenham Racecourse and bet on horses
- go to a Cricket match, understand rules and maybe even play ourselves
- see a Rugby match
- buy mini skirts and look like w****s
- go to London and marry Kevin Spacey (more likely than understanding the Cricket rules, I suppose)
Now, I treat you to a pic of Sandra and Ben before I lie down and try to sleep which I won't be able to do anyway (damn you, Red Bull, why did you make me drink you?!).
Some things to be done in the following months apart from playing golf:
- visit Cheltenham Racecourse and bet on horses
- go to a Cricket match, understand rules and maybe even play ourselves
- see a Rugby match
- buy mini skirts and look like w****s
- go to London and marry Kevin Spacey (more likely than understanding the Cricket rules, I suppose)
Now, I treat you to a pic of Sandra and Ben before I lie down and try to sleep which I won't be able to do anyway (damn you, Red Bull, why did you make me drink you?!).
Freitag, 26. September 2008
My school, my home, my room
Pate's from the outside.
My room.
I had the choice between two rooms and I have obviously chosen the impractical one. I don't even have a desk in here. The chair I've got belongs in the other room, but I pinched it so that at least my laptop is heightened.
You can probably guess which bed I'm sleeping in. The room is a mess, I admit.
My room.
I had the choice between two rooms and I have obviously chosen the impractical one. I don't even have a desk in here. The chair I've got belongs in the other room, but I pinched it so that at least my laptop is heightened.
You can probably guess which bed I'm sleeping in. The room is a mess, I admit.
Mission Possible
Hooray! I've managed to open a bank account at Barclays today. It might have helped that the son of the nice lady I talked to is a pupil at Pate's and in fact doing German. I took me about an hour, though, and she asked weird questions about things I didn't know the bank was interested in. One of the questions on the application form (yes, you have to apply for an account) was 'Tell me about your family'. Since I didn't expect a question like that, I was a bit baffled and asked the poor lady three times if she could repeat it. I'm even putting money into my savings account every month now (Mom, Dad, I want you to acknowledge that!). Now, I just have to wait for my first salary.
Judith came home from London today where she babysat her youngest grandchild who'll have her first birthday next month. Apart from the babysitting, she also saw to it that the whole family got something healthy to eat, so I offered to cook tonight (unhealthy, for a change) to take a bit of a burden off her.
Judith came home from London today where she babysat her youngest grandchild who'll have her first birthday next month. Apart from the babysitting, she also saw to it that the whole family got something healthy to eat, so I offered to cook tonight (unhealthy, for a change) to take a bit of a burden off her.
Donnerstag, 25. September 2008
Life started! Yay!
My life here seems to have finally started.
I walked to school today (a walk of roughly 30 minutes) to meet Lorna who is in charge of the assistants at Pate's and she gave me the guided tour of the school. I just gotta say 'wow'. Pate's doesn't make the impression of being a school at all. It doesn't look the least bit like any school I've ever seen. Firstly, it has carpeted floors everywhere, the sixth formers have common rooms (not an invention of Harry Potter, then) with small kitchens even, there are computer working places all over and when I waited for Lorna at the reception I was startled to see a Toshiba flatscreen hanging at the wall whereas an even bigger one is hanging in the senior library. So, all in all, the school seems to be quite posh as is the rest of the town - which isn't a bad thing at all ;)
Lorna also seems to be really nice. She handed me a map to find my way through school which will be very useful considering that I wouldn't have found my way out today. She also told me that she'll try to get us assistants a day off, so that we can do stuff together. Then there was a short explanation of what will be expected of us which sounds quite reasonable. The assistants usually work 12 hours a week, mostly with small groups of students with the main aim to get them talking (including discussions with the sixth formers as a preparation for their oral exams). There might be some of the more clever primary school pupils coming over to learn a bit German and I was asked to teach them a bit, since they probably won't be needing me the whole 12 hours anyway ;). Additionally, I wa asked to help them correct some of the essays languagewise which is fine, obviously (although...they might want to wait until they've seen how bad my German really is, hihi).
There'll be a teaching programme for all the assistants in Gloucestershire at Pate's on October 15th . We will have started teaching by then, but anyway...Working life starts next Wednesday (Oct, 1st) at 9am and I think I'm even looking forward to it.
After the meeting with Lorna, Sandra (one of the French assistants) picked me up and we spent the afternoon together which was really nice. She has her car with her, so we drove into town, went to Starbucks (why didn't anybody tell me that Frappuccinos are cold?!), did a bit of shopping (Tesco's, that is) and went to her place (not what you think ;) ). She lives here with her boyfriend who is still looking for a job. He seems to have a bit of a rough time, since he is not particularly convinced by his English. We had a nice conversation, though, and both of them were really hospitable. Since we got along so well, the three of us will be going out for a beer on Saturday evening. There you go, I had a great day today and will let it finish with a film...maybe Die Einsteiger...who knows ;) Thanks for reading and have a good night!
I walked to school today (a walk of roughly 30 minutes) to meet Lorna who is in charge of the assistants at Pate's and she gave me the guided tour of the school. I just gotta say 'wow'. Pate's doesn't make the impression of being a school at all. It doesn't look the least bit like any school I've ever seen. Firstly, it has carpeted floors everywhere, the sixth formers have common rooms (not an invention of Harry Potter, then) with small kitchens even, there are computer working places all over and when I waited for Lorna at the reception I was startled to see a Toshiba flatscreen hanging at the wall whereas an even bigger one is hanging in the senior library. So, all in all, the school seems to be quite posh as is the rest of the town - which isn't a bad thing at all ;)
Lorna also seems to be really nice. She handed me a map to find my way through school which will be very useful considering that I wouldn't have found my way out today. She also told me that she'll try to get us assistants a day off, so that we can do stuff together. Then there was a short explanation of what will be expected of us which sounds quite reasonable. The assistants usually work 12 hours a week, mostly with small groups of students with the main aim to get them talking (including discussions with the sixth formers as a preparation for their oral exams). There might be some of the more clever primary school pupils coming over to learn a bit German and I was asked to teach them a bit, since they probably won't be needing me the whole 12 hours anyway ;). Additionally, I wa asked to help them correct some of the essays languagewise which is fine, obviously (although...they might want to wait until they've seen how bad my German really is, hihi).
There'll be a teaching programme for all the assistants in Gloucestershire at Pate's on October 15th . We will have started teaching by then, but anyway...Working life starts next Wednesday (Oct, 1st) at 9am and I think I'm even looking forward to it.
After the meeting with Lorna, Sandra (one of the French assistants) picked me up and we spent the afternoon together which was really nice. She has her car with her, so we drove into town, went to Starbucks (why didn't anybody tell me that Frappuccinos are cold?!), did a bit of shopping (Tesco's, that is) and went to her place (not what you think ;) ). She lives here with her boyfriend who is still looking for a job. He seems to have a bit of a rough time, since he is not particularly convinced by his English. We had a nice conversation, though, and both of them were really hospitable. Since we got along so well, the three of us will be going out for a beer on Saturday evening. There you go, I had a great day today and will let it finish with a film...maybe Die Einsteiger...who knows ;) Thanks for reading and have a good night!
Mittwoch, 24. September 2008
Found in the papers
After Judith and Mike told me that reading the paper would improve my non-colloquial English, I followed their advice and looked at the pictures in the Times. Look what I found :)
Thomas, this is for you:
In case you can't recognise anything, it is a whole bunch of Tiggers sitting on a whole bunch of chairs at some fancy meeting. Don't ask me why, though.
Edit: Found out why there are so many Tiggers: It was at the memorial service for a professor. That prof was apparently known for his motto in life, namely that you have to decide whether you want to be a Tigger or Eeyore. The pic cleary shows what he decided on.
Thomas, this is for you:
In case you can't recognise anything, it is a whole bunch of Tiggers sitting on a whole bunch of chairs at some fancy meeting. Don't ask me why, though.
Edit: Found out why there are so many Tiggers: It was at the memorial service for a professor. That prof was apparently known for his motto in life, namely that you have to decide whether you want to be a Tigger or Eeyore. The pic cleary shows what he decided on.
Dienstag, 23. September 2008
Random...again
Not a lot is happening here at the moment. I go into town a lot to do some unhealthy shopping, unhealthy for my wallet, that is. But I've almost reached my self-set limit. So I won't purchase too many DVDs until next month. I should be alright with the choice I have now, since I bought The Omen Pentology as well as the Planet of the Apes box. That'll keep me busy for a while. Judith and Mike told me that it would be a great time to start working on my paper rather than watching all those films. I tell them I want to perfect my procrastination, since I am quite proud of that talent.
Judith accompanied me to a practice yesterday, for I have to register with an NHS doctor. It'll be quite interesting to see how the medical system functions around here. They gave me an appointment for the beginning of October. Remind me to take a dictionary, for I barely understand my German doctor. How can anyone assume I'll understand an English one?
Finally bought a UK SIM card today, yay! Calls are really cheap to German landlines, so if anyone wants me to call him, just send me a note and I will ;)
Greetings to Philipp and his family, by the way. I hope, Daniel behaves well :P
Judith accompanied me to a practice yesterday, for I have to register with an NHS doctor. It'll be quite interesting to see how the medical system functions around here. They gave me an appointment for the beginning of October. Remind me to take a dictionary, for I barely understand my German doctor. How can anyone assume I'll understand an English one?
Finally bought a UK SIM card today, yay! Calls are really cheap to German landlines, so if anyone wants me to call him, just send me a note and I will ;)
Greetings to Philipp and his family, by the way. I hope, Daniel behaves well :P
Sonntag, 21. September 2008
Random
My DVD collection catches on. I confess: I went to HMV again. There is a sale at the moment (yeah, I know, there ALWAYS is a sale) which I simply couldn't and will not be able to resist in the near future. It is tempting and dreadful at the same time, because I know how much money I will probably leave there. Yield: Sweeney Todd, Fargo, The Royal Tennenbaums and Grizzly Man.
Mike is bemused by the title of the seminar I did last year, "Formulaic Language", for he cannot imagine what it is about. Neither can I, by the way.
(Partly not so) New curiosities in the series "what makes the British different":
On Friday, I went into two shops, because I wanted a chequered notebook, but only found ruled ones. If you don't find chequered paper at WH Smiths you can deduce that the Brits don't write on it. Weird. But maybe I'm simply blind.
And another thing:
On my way into town, I saw way too many people wearing not enough clothes. The sun is shining and the weather is quite agreeable on the whole, but it is simply not warm enough for spaghetti tops, hot pants and flip flops. I say that after two days of freezing, so I should be used to the cold by now, but still I feel, I have to look after my body.
Mike is bemused by the title of the seminar I did last year, "Formulaic Language", for he cannot imagine what it is about. Neither can I, by the way.
(Partly not so) New curiosities in the series "what makes the British different":
On Friday, I went into two shops, because I wanted a chequered notebook, but only found ruled ones. If you don't find chequered paper at WH Smiths you can deduce that the Brits don't write on it. Weird. But maybe I'm simply blind.
And another thing:
On my way into town, I saw way too many people wearing not enough clothes. The sun is shining and the weather is quite agreeable on the whole, but it is simply not warm enough for spaghetti tops, hot pants and flip flops. I say that after two days of freezing, so I should be used to the cold by now, but still I feel, I have to look after my body.
Freitag, 19. September 2008
Alarum, alarum
When I lived in Cheltenham four years ago, my hosts left me alone for a week, because they went to Spain to practise their Spanish. The day they were set to return, I wanted to tidy up a bit, so I took out the garbage. As soon as I left the house, a draught slammed the door shut. At that point I was incredibly relieved and proud of my sense of anticipation since I had rushed upstairs just before to get the key just in case...but the door wouldn't open again. Something inside the lock must have moved because of the violent blow. Judith had told me that the neighbours had an extra key so I went over and asked them for help. They couldn't open the door either, so I waited in their living room, watching The Perfect Storm until my hosts came home. With a little bit of wiggling the key around in the lock the door did open again, but I've been heavily traumatised since that day.
Last night, another traumatising incident took place. I was watching Cape Fear in my room (on my laptop *grml*), when I took a break to fix myself something to eat. On the ground floor, I heard an alarm and went to the window to see where it came from. I saw neighbours looking strangely at my hosts' house, so I went outside and asked them whose house or car the alarm belonged to. You already know the answer. For the rest of the evening, I was paranoid, expecting the alarm to go off any time again, therefore I triple checked every one of my steps. Talking about the development of neuroses...
What must have happened is that the alarm was accidentally switched back on when the keys were in my pocket. When I walked into the kitchen, I must have set off the motion detector and the alarm started howling.
This is the culprit. No, not the cute little "hunny" eating bear, Thomas :P
Last night, another traumatising incident took place. I was watching Cape Fear in my room (on my laptop *grml*), when I took a break to fix myself something to eat. On the ground floor, I heard an alarm and went to the window to see where it came from. I saw neighbours looking strangely at my hosts' house, so I went outside and asked them whose house or car the alarm belonged to. You already know the answer. For the rest of the evening, I was paranoid, expecting the alarm to go off any time again, therefore I triple checked every one of my steps. Talking about the development of neuroses...
What must have happened is that the alarm was accidentally switched back on when the keys were in my pocket. When I walked into the kitchen, I must have set off the motion detector and the alarm started howling.
This is the culprit. No, not the cute little "hunny" eating bear, Thomas :P
Cheltenham lost its Virginity...
After I spent the first half of the day avoiding the shower, I went into town in the afternoon. On my way, I took more pictures. First: the house from the outside.
Then: Christchurch which gives its name to the street I live in and is actually quite nice to look at.
The trip to the town centre takes about 10-15 minutes and is quite a nice walk. Yet, when I got there, I realised that I shouldn't have gone. I'm completely disillusioned and desperate. Virgin Megastore is gone and I don't know if they simply moved or actually closed down their branch in Cheltenham. I looked all over the High Street but I didn't find it. Had to go to HMV to do my shopping, then, where I couldn't resist the tremendous DVD sale, of course (nothing new here ;) ). Bought Hana Bi, Cape Fear and No Country for Old Men - for those of you who are interested - and saw at least 200 other DVDs that I'll have to buy during my stay.
John Travolta said in Pulp Fiction that "it's the little differences" between countries that make visiting an experience. I, for one, just love the fact that you can actually switch off the power sockets here, no annoying plug pulling necessary. More of the little differences are to be noted and accounts will follow.
Then: Christchurch which gives its name to the street I live in and is actually quite nice to look at.
The trip to the town centre takes about 10-15 minutes and is quite a nice walk. Yet, when I got there, I realised that I shouldn't have gone. I'm completely disillusioned and desperate. Virgin Megastore is gone and I don't know if they simply moved or actually closed down their branch in Cheltenham. I looked all over the High Street but I didn't find it. Had to go to HMV to do my shopping, then, where I couldn't resist the tremendous DVD sale, of course (nothing new here ;) ). Bought Hana Bi, Cape Fear and No Country for Old Men - for those of you who are interested - and saw at least 200 other DVDs that I'll have to buy during my stay.
John Travolta said in Pulp Fiction that "it's the little differences" between countries that make visiting an experience. I, for one, just love the fact that you can actually switch off the power sockets here, no annoying plug pulling necessary. More of the little differences are to be noted and accounts will follow.
Rear window
Just to show youwhere I live, I took two pictures from what I see when I look out of my window.
The field on the left is a hockey field that belongs to the Cheltenham Ladies' College whose buildings are all over the town. I distinctly remember my brother having loads of fun watching the girls practise when he was 13ish ;)
Please excuse the quality of the pictures. I am planning on buying a camera at some point ;)
The field on the left is a hockey field that belongs to the Cheltenham Ladies' College whose buildings are all over the town. I distinctly remember my brother having loads of fun watching the girls practise when he was 13ish ;)Please excuse the quality of the pictures. I am planning on buying a camera at some point ;)
Freezing
Judith was kind enough to leave me a list with the most useful instructions concerning the household, one of them was how to turn on the water boiler. When I first came into the house, I didn't think it was necessary, but when I calmed down and the sweat from the way home (eww, I know) didn't keep me warm anymore, I decided otherwise and wanted to switch it on. The thingy is in the same room as is the washing machine which is in the basement. On my way down, however, I realised that the basement door is locked...great...I don't want to call Judith and Mike to ask them where the key is in case it isn't in the house and I don't want to rush them home and thereby messing with their holidays. On the other hand, have you ever noticed how many things become a real pain in the arse without hot water?! Turning on the radiator? Doesn't make any sense. Taking a shower? I'm dreading that. Probably the reason why I'm still hanging around in my pyjamas. Washing the dishes? You get cold hands you cannot warm afterwards, neither on the radiator, nor with hot water. See what I'm going through? :D
I guess, I'll have to give Judith a ring later...
I guess, I'll have to give Judith a ring later...
Mittwoch, 17. September 2008
Car, plane, bus, stop, bus again
I finally arrived in Cheltenham after a tiring journey. The plane left at 10.25 at Hahn and I had my first lengthy chat in English already on the plane with my seatmate - even though more on his than on my part. We landed at 10.50 local time and I have been travelling the country since then, including a two-hour stay at Heathrow - which doesn't exactl qualify as travelling come to think of it. Got the keys from the neighbour and let myself in. The fridge looks like I'll be able to eat something tonight, slump down on the couch, watch a film and then fall into bed.
Had a quick look around the house, Judith and Mike got their bathrooms remade and they look really nice. I'm looking forward to taking a long bath.
The best thing so far, though, is that I detected an unsecured WLAN which seems to belong to some neighbours. Ace!
Had a quick look around the house, Judith and Mike got their bathrooms remade and they look really nice. I'm looking forward to taking a long bath.
The best thing so far, though, is that I detected an unsecured WLAN which seems to belong to some neighbours. Ace!
Last day
My last day in Germany draws to a close. Got the last presents for my host parents (apparently Mon Cherie came back from its summer shutdown today, yesterday none were to be found, today it's hard NOT to find any), finished packing more or less and hope that I didn't forget anything important. I also decided that I'll only take DVDs I haven't seen yet which narrows down the choice to a justifiable amount ;).
My brother and his girlfriend are coming over tonight and the whole family will go out for a meal. I get to choose the restaurant, and what could be better than saying goodbye to Germany by eating Chinese.
I talked over the modalities with my dad who'll drop me off at Hahn airport on his way to work tomorrow and we realised we have to get up at 6 something am. Damn...
My brother and his girlfriend are coming over tonight and the whole family will go out for a meal. I get to choose the restaurant, and what could be better than saying goodbye to Germany by eating Chinese.
I talked over the modalities with my dad who'll drop me off at Hahn airport on his way to work tomorrow and we realised we have to get up at 6 something am. Damn...
Montag, 15. September 2008
You just gotta...
...love the Brits. I asked my host mother what she would like me to bring from Germany. Her answer: "Brillenputztuecher (I still have some from my last visit, but it will be a while before I am next there, and the German ones are so good), and a few (not many) packets of DR Oetker's Vanillenpudding and Schokoladenpudding." Brilliant!
I collected my GBP today and was astonished at the miserable exchange rate - from British perspective, mind you ;).
I collected my GBP today and was astonished at the miserable exchange rate - from British perspective, mind you ;).
Donnerstag, 11. September 2008
Moving and news from Cheltenham
I hate moving. My flat is empty, and so will be my bank account, because we banged a car today with the rented van...yay! Nobody was hurt though, so it wasn't as bad as it might sound. Still, I know what my first salary will be spent on.
To make things worse, I got news from my host parents today. They won't be in town the day I arrive, so I'll have to get the key from the neighbours and spend my first two days alone in that big house. Not a prospect I'm particularly looking forward to. On the other hand, it helps me getting used to being alone, since they will be leaving for Australia for four weeks anyway.
To make things worse, I got news from my host parents today. They won't be in town the day I arrive, so I'll have to get the key from the neighbours and spend my first two days alone in that big house. Not a prospect I'm particularly looking forward to. On the other hand, it helps me getting used to being alone, since they will be leaving for Australia for four weeks anyway.
Mittwoch, 10. September 2008
Leaving Mainz
I finally decided that I don't want to reactivate my old blog and got this pretty one here. I hope PC doesn't hate me for so shamelessly copying his ideas, but I simply cannot be creative at the moment for I've too much to do.
I'm still in Mainz, sitting in between packing cases and not being comfy in my flat anymore. The posters are off the walls, my home cinema is all packed and the shelves are empty. My DVDs sit in the bathroom waiting for the transport to my parents' house tomorrow and I still haven't decided which of the boys I'm taking to England. Yesterday, Thomas (Bernhard?) and I celebrated our final victory over Bowser, the gruesome princess abductor, and watched our last film for the time being. That's how I say goodbye to my flat.
I'm still in Mainz, sitting in between packing cases and not being comfy in my flat anymore. The posters are off the walls, my home cinema is all packed and the shelves are empty. My DVDs sit in the bathroom waiting for the transport to my parents' house tomorrow and I still haven't decided which of the boys I'm taking to England. Yesterday, Thomas (Bernhard?) and I celebrated our final victory over Bowser, the gruesome princess abductor, and watched our last film for the time being. That's how I say goodbye to my flat.
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