Bargstedt Weekend

On Friday, I was blessed that my team could cover my sports club and I could catch a bus to Hamburg. It's about a three hour drive to Hamburg; however, Hamburg is not the destination. As I stepped off the bus, the Lemmermann's where there to greet me.

From last years visit. Hannah, Paula, Katie

Back story: For those of you who don't know... I met the Lemmermann's (Jörg, Petra, Paula (10) and Hannah (8)) four years ago. I met them when I worked at YoYo Camps. We have kept in-touch since that time and I visited them while I was in Italy last year.

We said our quick hellos and it was time to grab a train. I think it was only an hour by train to their home in Bargstedt. Bargstedt is a small village in the countryside. I really love it there. Everyone knows everyone and they truly enjoy each other's company. It reminds me of home in some ways.

Well, my weekend started off at Oma's house. Oma reminds me of my grandmother. Petra called on our way saying, "Do you have anything to eat for Katie and the girls?" By the time we arrived at Oma's house, not 20 minutes later, the table was set, a salad was prepared, fresh bread, and sausages was sizzling in the frying pan. Oma and Opa do remind me of my grandparents, very generous and love to help in anyway. Plus, you can tell they love their grandchildren! When we left, Oma sent me with lots of pots and dishes for my new flat. This was just the start! Throughout the weekend, Mika, Sabine, and Petra all gave something from their home that they didn't need. I know have a stero, pots, placemats, and lamps. Everyone was so kind. Now only if I have guests!

Well, Friday evening concluded with a bit of relaxation before going to a party for Jörg's friend. It was a fine party. I just struggled to make it to midnight. Traveling always wipes me out, even if I'm not doing anything.

We woke up and spent the day shopping from place to place to get many, many things for my new apartment. Even when you are just shopping for the basics there are so much! Ugh. It's so hard. In the evening, we had a BBQ and played cards.

German Hot Dog with the works and a tasty Iced Chai, as we take a short break from shopping. 

Traveling to Bargstedt, reminded me of many important German aspects of life. For starters, how important a garden is to them and why, for those in the city, they try to get their hands on any land they can. Germans find it important to be outside. It is truly just another room in their house. It's a place to relax as well as entertain. The other thing was the German breakfast. Lots of fresh bread, spreads, and different salads. If you come, I will treat you to a real German breakfast!

On Sunday, we traveled to Berlin. We had dinner at the Corman's. All of us stayed there and in the morning we had breakfast at this cute place. I am making a list of places to take visitors. (more later) But this place really makes the list -yum! Afterwards, we moved in my belongings and said goodbye. I really don't want them to go but I know they must.

Tomorrow, as much as I wish my dad was here to help me move in - I have two very helpful guys. Ben and Andre will help me buy a bed and move in the few things I have at the Corman's. I'm thankful that these two have offered their Tuesday to help me move. I think it will be a great day. I don't have any decorations or "wanted things" yet, but before long I know I will.

Oh the list... I have been mentally making a list of places I want to show people. Usually these places involved food but there are cute places to sit and chat. For my beer drinking friends, I have found a great place to try many different beers. For shopping, I have found places. And of course for pizza --I've got my place!


I'm still crossing my fingers for friends to book a flight. I can't wait to have my first visitors... I think it will be five girls from LVC. I don't know them but they are studying in London for three weeks and they want to come to Berlin. I will host them and show them around. It's exciting but not the same as having someone I know come. So if it's in the budget for anyone, come - book your ticket - I'm waiting.