Ahhh, Germany Again.

Ryan and I are heading to Germany this week for a few days.  This visit will be different though.  This is a "business trip".  Ryan is our base's nominee for the CGO (company grade officer) of the Year.  We are going to a banquet where they will announce the winner for all European bases.  From there, the winner competes at the Air Force level.  Our days will be scheduled for us for the most part.  We will have meet and greets, dinners, and meetings to attend.  We also will make a return trip to the Rhine River for a day cruise. 

In our free time, I am looking forward to a few things:

• The Ramstein BX.  Oh my goodness.  This thing is huge.  The selection is almost overwhelming to someone used to Turkey.  It is wonderful.  Oh, and there is a Subway in the food court!!!!!!!
• Speaking of restaurants: Macaroni Grille and Chili's are also there.  It is almost too much for my heart to handle!!
• Feeling like we are "home".  I know it is Germany, but to someone used to living in the Middle East, it is practically America.  "Germerica", as Ryan calls it.
• Time away with Ryan.  We have had a tough, busy few weeks.  We need this badly. 

Have a great week, blog friends!

Saturday Shower

 

Along with Wendi and Logan, I helped give our good friend Casey her long-awaited baby shower yesterday.  It was a beautiful, sunny, friend-filled day.  Casey has had a long journey to get to this point, so the celebration was even more special.  Making priceless memories with wonderful people.......that's what I call a great day.

Three Year Old Funnies

Me: W, I am going to the coffee shop to see some of my friends.
W: OK Mommy.  Member, be sure not to hit.
Me: I'll keep that in mind, buddy.

As a praise song we were singing along with was ending....
W: Mommy?
Me: Yes, buddy?
W: That was some good stuff.

Upon going to get him from a nap, I was wearing sweats and a t-shirt.
W: I sorry.
Me: Sorry for what?
W: You throwed up.
Me: I didn't throw up buddy.
W: Look at those clothes.  They are uh-gusting! (disgusting)

Planning Mode

I knew this would happen.  In the few days since we have received our assignment to DC, I have been in full-on planning mode.  Houses, schools, shopping, commutes-nothing is being left uncovered.  I am contacting several people who live there for advice.  This move is occupying my time and my thoughts. 

You know what I want to occupy my thoughts and time?  My amazing friends, some of whom are only weeks away from moving.  I need to soak up every moment with them.  W's sweet little buddies.  I need to be planning more playdates than ever.  The 3-4 great parks that are less than a minute from my house.  We need to be taking fullest advantage.

Mark my words: I will miss Turkey.  I will move and get to a fantastic new place and probably feel isolated and alone for awhile.  I will have "reverse culture shock".

So this week, I plan to step back, take a deep breath, and just enjoy the time I have.  I plan to live in the moment here- whether they are good moments, or, um- Turkey ones.  I plan to leave with no regrets.