Valentine's Hoopla!

Today I had some surprise free time, so I spent the majority of it trying to upload and post my stories and pictures from Berlin. Sadly, it was not working. I'll give it a try again tomorrow. I'm dying to share these with you guys! (..and I know you're waiting with great anticipation! ;)..) Since it didn't work I thought I'd just write a random blog!

As most of  you know Valentine's Day is right around the corner. I'm sure you've noticed the insane amounts of pink, red, hearts, cupids, and candies at your local supermarkets. Totally obnoxious, right? Okay, I love it. Mainly because I am a seasonal candy-a-holic. Last year I probably ate 10 big bags of candy hearts.. I know.. I know.. YIKES! Thankfully, this year I am without transportation (and time), so I have don't even have the option to pick some up! Yay for prevention!

Anyway, this year I have gotten myself the most wonderful Valentine's Day present and it was completely on accident! Yep.. an ironic accident. I will be spending Valentine's weekend in Paris! HA HA HA HA. When I planned my trip I didn't even realize. It will indeed be special. Now on to the good part..

This is for all you single people that have the blues since Valentine's Day is around the bend! This is the information you've been waiting for and is very likely to land you your very own valentine! 

Friends have posted this on facebook several times and it always gives me a good laugh, so without further ado, I present to you "How do you decide who to marry? (written by kids!). Hope you laugh as much as I did!

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"A group of young kids were asked how do you decide who to marry and here are the results which are pretty amusing.

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY? (written by kids!)

(1) You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
- Alan, age 10
(2) No person really decides before they grow up who they’re going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you’re stuck with.
- Kristen, age 10

WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?

(1) Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.
- Camille, age 10
(2) No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married.
- Freddie, age 6 (very wise for his age)

HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?

(1) You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.
- Derrick, age 8

WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?

(1) Both don’t want any more kids.
- Lori, age 8

WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?

(1) Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
- Lynnette, age 8 (isn’t she a treasure)
(2) On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that Usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.
- Martin, age 10

WHAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR?

(1) I’d run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns.
-Craig, age 9

WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?

(1) When they’re rich.
- Pam, age 7
(2) The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn’t want to mess with that.
- Curt, age 7
(3) The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It’s the right thing to do.
- Howard, age 8

IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?

(1) I don’t know which is better, but I’ll tell you one thing. I’m never going to have sex with my wife. I don’t want to be all grossed out.
- Theodore, age 8
(2) It’s better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them.
- Anita, age 9 (bless you child)

HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN’T GET MARRIED?

(1) There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn’t there?
- Kelvin, age 8
And the #1 Favorite is……..

HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?

(1) Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a truck. - Ricky, age 10"

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Don't kids say the funniest things?! I hope you all have a wonderful Vanetines weekend!

Here is a  Link to the original post. I

Blessings in Berlin

Hanging out with the Berlin Bear (mascot of Berlin) on Unter den Linden, one of the most famous streets in Berlin.

Clearly, we hit it off and became best friends! 

I have had the most wonderful week! It's been so wonderful that I am not able to count everything on both hands and feet!

I was able to visit my long lost friend Carolin in Berlin, where she grew up! Carolin and I met when she came to Alabama as an exchange student back in 2005. We have stayed in touch via Facebook for the past eight years and always talked about me coming to visit Germany. However, after a few years I wasn't too confident that I would ever have the opportunity. Thankful the Lord provided an opportunity for me to live in Germany for three months, making Berlin a "short" 7 hour train ride away! God is good to us, isn't He?! It was amazing how we picked up right where we left off eight years ago. As if we hadn't missed a beat! Reuniting with friends after time apart and feeling right at home is really one of the sweetest blessings. 

My short time in Berlin was wonderful! Full of exhaustion, rest, and sweet revitalization! I'm not quite sure how I'm going to fit all of the wonder into a blog for you all! I have so much to blog about and not much time to sit down and blog.

Let's see...

My interest for history began in middle school, but my love for history was really sparked in Dr. Freshwater's US History classes at Snead State the summer after my sophomore year of high school. Berlin is FULL OF HISTORY and I was eating up every detail! In school we learned about World War II and the Cold War, but I really had an appreciation for the details I was able to learn in Berlin. I'll spare you all the history lessons and share some pictures!

In front of the Berlin Dom, First built in 1465 as a parish church, it was only finally completed in 1905 under the last German Kaiser -Wilhelm II. Damaged during the Second World War it remained closed during the GDR years and reopened after restoration in 1993.  

The Berlin Bear. Berlin's Mascot, you can find them all over the city.

Enjoying one of our many bus rides around the inner city.
I found hopping around on public transportation quite fun!

Another at the Berlin Dom.

Door of the Berlin Dom.

Entering the sanctuary in the Berlin Dom

Inside the Berlin Dom.

Another of the inside of the Berlin Dom

Sadly my camera died while I was in the Berlin Dom, so I wasn't able to get many pictures. There was so much beauty that couldn't be captured on my camera. It was the most beautiful building I've ever seen.

The World Clock at Alexanderplatz

In front of the World Clock at Alexanderplatz

Our versions of the Amplemann.
He's responsible for telling you when it's safe to cross at all the crosswalks in Berlin.

 

My first experience at a self serve bakery was perfect! It was truly love at first sight!

When it came to choosing desserts I chose a German dessert and Carolin chose an American dessert. Funny the way that works!

:)

When I arrived, Carolin insisted I try a Turkish Kebab. It was very good, but nothing like I expected! In Alabama kebabs are few and far between. My assumptions was that I would be getting some meat and veggies roasted on a skewer, nope! It was a sandwich! Blew your mind too, didn't it? It was such an interesting yet tasty combination!

I'd say it's clear that I'm from the South because I haven't a clue how to wear a winter hat on my head! This proved to be quite a struggle when it came to approving pictures. :) These are just a few of the pictures and wonderful experiences that I had while in Berlin. I hope to share the rest with you soon! Hopefully, in a bit more detail!

Have you ever been to Berlin?
If so, what was your favorite part? I'd love to hear!

Good-bye Tumultous Tuesday!

I know I've fallen behind on this blogging business! Who knew that when a four-year-old, two-year-old, four-month-old and laundry all teamed up they could tire you out faster than a workout with Jillian Michaels?! 

Let me give you a quick recap of my day!

Today was spent running errands..

First, we dropped off a neighbor, Rory, at the air base. He deployed to the Middle East this afternoon. As he said his goodbyes he paused and said to Heidi (the lady I'm here helping) "wait, will I see you guys when I get back?" To which Heidi replied "no."--And there IT was.. the giant bag full of emotions (and perspective) I managed to dodge at the airport when I left my family.. BOOM! Couldn't dodge it this time. Here is a guy, only 24 years old, leaving everything familiar, which he's already done a time or two during his years of service, to live in a desert...a desert...so that you and I can continue to live in the land of the FREE!--back to the story. When he returns from the Middle East this family that he's become close friends with will be reassigned. This afternoon could realistically be the last time they see one another. Woah! Then all the things he's leaving behind begin racing through my head and I felt like I couldn't thank him enough.

Pray for Rory and Matt (the father and husband of the family I'm living with) as they sacrifice time with their loved ones, every day comforts, and much more to serve our country. Also, please take the time today to thank someone that you know serving in the military. Let them know that they are cared about and prayed for and that their hard work and sacrifice don't go unnoticed.

Next, we went to a few German stores (which screams "ADVENTURE!!!!!"). We had dinner in Kaufland. I can't compare it to anywhere I've ever been (besides Edeka, but that's also German so it doesn't really help). It's a grocery store with a mini mall feel. When you walk in there are restaurants and shops lining the walls, then an entrance to the grocery part of the store. We got sandwiches at one of the delis before shopping. I walked to up to the counter, sweating (I was nervous! I only speak English and they all speak German). I ask "can I get a sandwich?" To which the lady replies "German word German words more German words" I'm clueless, so naturally I reply "ham?" She points at a giant slab of ham and I nod my head yes. She cuts the slab in half (remeber this is a GIANT slab of ham) and places one half on a white roll and hand it's to me. I was so shocked all I could say was "cheese?" She must've been shocked too because she just left! I waited (still sweating). She came back with my sandwich: half a giant slab of ham, on a white roll, with cheese. 

Graphic picture of my sandwich. Isn't that the most giant slab of ham?!

As I paid I ask for a bottle of water, she pointed me to a cooler and gave me my change. After looking at almost every bottle in the cooler and determining they were all beer (now I believe it's true what they say about Germans, they drink beer like its water!) I ask her for water again... and she left.. again. So I waited again! (Thankfully body language-or in this case leaving- is a universal language!) This time I received water! Bubbly water (they carbonate everything here-water and juice), but water nonetheless! I enjoyed my sandwich while gawking over some beautiful desserts in the bakery across from me. I hope you're dinner was just as exciting! :)

While grocery shopping a few things caught my eye and I just had to have pictures of them. Here they are for your viewing pleasure:

Don't be fooled! This is not a pet store! It's tons of yummy fresh bread!

Yes, they have tons of fresh bread and sell what they call bread for an "American Sandwich" Funny, right?

Who doesn't need a giant can of cigarettes at check out?

The usual last minute grab your attention items: candy, chap stick, iTunes card, air freshener, and alcohol..WHAT?

Hope you enjoyed a short trip to the German grocery store! Until next time!

My Kleenex Box Feels like Home

As I settle into a routine here I have begun missing things from home. One of those being my hair dryer. I chose not to bring it because I didn't want to accidentally blow it up (You know, the differences in voltage and all that jazz). But you guys.. If you ever want to stress yourself out just leave something you adore on the other side of the world! So you're all welcome to come visit me over in frizz central, I'll be here until April! My hair is crazy here, like it's takes 20 minutes to blow dry it crazy. WHO DOES THAT?! (Yeah, yeah I hear all you thick haired girls barking-settle down!) It takes me MAYBE 5 minutes to dry my hair at home, in America, with my precious hair dryer. So that's 15 more minutes I'd be spending in Snoozeyville if I was with my hair dryer, back in America. 

That's also 12 weeks I wouldn't be spending in Germany. 90 days I wouldn't get to be submerged in another culture. 2,160 hours I wouldn't have a precious two year old laughing her head off, while looking up at me, as she sneaks up to hug my leg as tight as she can, with the sweetest grin on her peanut butter stained cheeks. 129,600 minutes I wouldn't get to spend in the kitchen floor chatting with a four month old that has more to babble about ,,than any one I've ever met (and squeals with excitement at my stories)! 7,776,000 seconds I wouldn't  get to hear a spunky four year old singing hymns of praise to God as she plays with her toys, without a care in the world, and without a clue that anyone hears. 

Can we all take some time to praise God for the faithful, loving, all knowing God that He is?!

I'm praising God for the opportunity to leave my comfort zone- you know, the one where my hair dryer, family, friends, Baby cat, car, favorite foods, and even my native language live- and for having a much bigger plan than my tiny eyes can see. A an even greater plan than I can begin to imagine!

The Kleenex box on my bedside table :)

Who knew that my exhausted, impatient, stressed heart would be reminded to praise God by hearing a four year old belt out  "God is SO GOOD, Good is SO GOOD, God is SO GOOD, He's SO GOOD TO ME!!!" through a closed bathroom door, while she sits on the potty? God knew. 

What a mighty God we serve! Thankful for a God that knows my heart and meets my needs. 

Which brings me to the Kleenex box (I know you've been wondering). I needed a box of Kleenex for my room and was able to pick from a plethora of patterns in the pantry. I just grabbed one and started to walk off, then my eye caught a different one. It was sort of a mauve color and covered with flowers. I immediately felt relaxed and right at home. I couldn't help but smile! Because in a moment that I felt a bit homesick there I was holding a Kleenex box just like the ones my mom buys. Nothing like a Kleenex box to make ya feel all warm and fuzzy, right? It sounds silly, but was just the little piece of home I needed!

When you begin to feel yourself wanting to be somewhere else, stop and think about the gifts God has blessed you with right where you are. 

You won't regret it!

Until next time,

Rach

Trying to Keep My Eyes Open

My first few days in Germany have been okay.

I say "okay" because this 7 hour time change is kicking my butt, one hour at a time! They say it take one day per hour of time change for your body to adjust, so if that's true only four days of sleepless torture left! Then I can describe my days as GREAT!.. since I'll be awake enough to remember them. 

Sadly this is not a very good picture. Its from my phone.
I was attempting to take it while riding in the shuttle going very fast over the bumpiest roads in the world, but hey it works.
See the windmills? They're so environmentally friendly here. SO SO SO much tree hugging!

Germany is so the same and different from America. The landscape doesn't look much different. It's gloomy instead of sunny, so that's sad. It's also much colder!  MUCH MUCH colder. Like sleep in long johns, pants, a shirt, a sweatshirt, layers of wool socks, mittens and a toboggan and still wake up freezing! Oh, and I forgot to add 4 comforters and one knit blanket! Yep, THAT cold!

Same sob story here about the terrible quality. Hopefully you an see the "village" in the distance.

Villages are a common and make for a pretty cool community. They have their own schools and shops.

The houses are a lot different than I imagined. All the Germans I've met (before coming here) wore dark clothes. Black jeans, black, red or grey shirt. Saw the same sort of outfits at the airport when I arrived, so I'm thinking pretty plain place, right? WRONG! First house my airport shuttle went to was grey and bright purple! The building number was painted grey inside a purple lightening bolt. Crazy stuff. Then I saw a house with orange stripes! It was wild! The interiors are a lot different from American homes. I really love them. I'll bore you with more talk about that later!

Looking forward to telling you all about:

-My first Sunday at a German church

-My first meal in a German household

-My first experience in a "village" 

-and maybe some more firsts that take place before my next post :)

Seriously, ask me questions in the comments. It makes writing much easier!

So long! Farewell!

Today's the day! Goodbye America! Hello Germany! Yeeeeee!

As a lot of you know that I am THE BIGGEST cry baby. 

I have been counting down the days for months, excited to leave but dreading the waterfalls coming with goodbyes.

Happy? Crying. 

Watching a movie? Crying. 

Reading a book? Crying. 

Reading a touching blog? Crying. 

Extremely happy? Crying. 

Stressed? Crying

Recovering a meaningful gift? Crying. 

Super angry? Crying. 

Excited beyond belief? Crying. 

You get the picture. Crying is clearly my favorite way to express any emotion. Ha! (Note: I don't mean sobbing, just shed a few tears from time to time..) So I know everyone would be extremely proud of me today. DRY EYES! Didn't shed a tear! So many emotions and no tears! 

Baby cat wanted to come along

I'm happy!

Excited!

Nervous..

Exhausted

Hungry!

Thankful!

And ready to get this show on the road! 

While I was sad to say goodbye to everyone I love, I am beyond excited for what lies ahead! I'm positive it will be greater than I can begin to imagine.

My amazing care package from the Machens

Also THANK YOU to all of you that have sent me encouraging words and that are praying for me during this exciting journey! I can't wait to start posting more exciting blog posts.. Ones that say more than "I'm excited! I'm excited!" :).. You know, ones worth your time, I hope!

A collaboration of all my good-by pictures

After spending the last two hours in my cozy seat-because of passenger complications- I think we may finally be ready for take off! 9 hours to go...

If ony I was as comfortable as this lady

Next time you hear from me I'll be in Germany!

Until then :)

Rach 

T-Minus 2 Days!

Two days...

TWO DAYS?

Only two.

In exactly 2 days, 14 hours, 24 minutes I will board my flight to Germany.

It just doesn't seem real.

After all the chaos of preparing for a simple trip across a big ocean I'm not sure that my heart will survive the calm (here's to hoping) nine hour flight. 

Through all the excitement of the last week I have hardly slept at all. You all know what I do when it's crunch time. I over-think.. stress.. plan.. stress.. plan MORE.. micromanage.. stress..plan EVEN more. I long to iron out every detail-even the tiniest of them in order to be over-prepared for anything thrown my way, all in order that my mind may rest. That is, until the next thing comes along! It's exhausting. My heart is pleading to rest in God's provision. 

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." 34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." 

Matthew 6:25-34 is a 'snap back to reality' reminder for me. Verse 27 makes a good point, "And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?" NOW THAT is a good question! I can hear that verse yelling out at me "Wake up Rachel! Stop sweating the small stuff! Quit worrying! God has a bigger plan. One you can not even fathom." Then verse 30 speaks to God's faithfulness to provide for all things and calls me out "O you of little faith" Pray with me, asking God to help my mind rest and believe what my heart knows, that He has and WILL provide. He will meet all my needs -safety, adequate (health) care, wellness, rest, energy, joy, PEACE!-according to His will. 

I'm thankful to serve a God that truly cares for me and ALL of my needs.

Although sometimes I am briefly overcome with worries about the unknown the majority of my time has been filled with excitement! I am very excited to (hopefully) apply what I learned in college to my day to day life. I'm excited to live with and learn from this wonderful Christ-centered family. I know this will be an amazing experience. I can not wait to see what's in store!

Also, I would love to hear from you guys while I'm gone! 
Leave a comment!
Or shoot me and e-mail (arrington.rach@gmail.com)!   

PS. I'm SO SERIOUS! I want to hear from you...ALL of you! :)