Official Word

Rich and I were able to speak with Chris and Marissa last night; I am very pleased to announce we are going to have a new Grand Daughter!! I'm not sure what her name will be but I AM sure she'll be beautiful! They are registered at Babies r us and I've already purchased the crib. I hope now that we know it's a girl, Marissa will go on and add some more things. 
When all was quite last night, I thought of my Mother and how happy she would be. I remember her saying to me that I had Three wonderful boys- who would one day grow-up to give me Three wonderful Daughter-in-Laws. We're two for two, and blessed with beautiful Grandchildren. I'm definitely floating on a cloud!! And Corey?....No hurry! But I'll be ready when you are.
It's getting cold over here, in the 30's last night and 40's today. Last weekend we got snow in the Alps, making the mountain views just breathtaking. Even-though I leaped into Fall and landed on my Keister with a cold.....I'm loving it!

Quite weekend

We haven't done "much" this weekend, I didn't want to make this cold worse so we've been hanging around the house. This is the a first since moving in! Know what? I'm finding it very difficult...there are just so many thing's to do here and being sick is a total waste of time! "what can I say? I'm not good at everything".....However looking for the good in this situation; we were able to call and talk with Craig and Marissa.
Craig, Trista and the kids were on the beach for "clean up the beaches" day. We were able to talk with him before they went to their location with gloves and bags in hand. A special "Thank You" for doing your part in keeping the beaches clean and safe.! Very proud of you all!
Marissa and baby are doing fine. Chris was working and had taken Marcus as a "ride-a-long". I have not heard from them yet- but I hope Marcus was able to enjoy experiencing what it's like for Chris on the "beat" in Ca.
We were not able to reach Corey...but I do hear from Katrina {your a blessing} and she keeps me informed on his well being. I'm both relived and blessed that he has such a wonderful woman in his life. You have definitely become part of our Family Katrina, and we love you!! Hopefully by next weekend we'll be out and about doing something exciting and new. Take care everyone and don't forget to put on your sweaters!!

Fall is here!

I'm so happy that Fall has arrived! As you know I love all the seasons and couldn't give up any of the four. I think the end of summer has to be my favorite, I was always excited to get back to school and begin another year, definitely a change for everything: weather, trees, clothes, Teachers and Classrooms. I'm lucky enough to have some wonderful memories that I hope will stay with me throughout the years.  
For those of you who asked...yesterday the applesauce turned out great! The apples were very tart which helped with the seasoning. I used cinnamon, sugar and a little bit of cloves. Richard loved it! 
Unfortunately I awoke this morning with what feels like a swollen sore throat. And of course my chest ribs hurt from coughing....I truly hate when I get sick this time of year; I want to be able to enjoy fall days...not sleep through them! Hopefully this will pass quickly and I'll be up and running soon.

A surprise

Well I did it! From Oktoberfest I brought back a wonderful raging chest cold, sniffle-sniffle. An annoying cough and my voice keeps cutting out. Will that stop me from talking? Probably not. "sorry Rich" On the agenda for today: meeting my friend Terri for a slice of her homemade quiche and "girl talk" while we make some homemade applesauce. It's going to be a beautiful Fall day with temps reaching {maybe} 70. The leaves are really beginning to change..our 40 degree weather at night has still not put any frost on the ground it needs to get much cooler"...but it's just a matter of time before I get to "crunch" my walk to the market in the mornings! 
Chris and Marissa will have another ultrasound on 5 October, perhaps this will be the time when the sex of "little one" will be revealed. Or baby might just want to keep us guessing by either mooning the camera or covering the area with a tiny'little hand. {in which case we would greatly be underestimating baby's intelligence!} "You'll know when I want you to know, and not a second sooner!" LOL.. Chris and Marissa still think their in charge;  we know how wrong they are don't we? But ssh, we'll let them dream awhile longer!

Oktober Fest

Well, we survived Oktoberfest!!! What a wonderful time we had! I wish all of you could have come-although I know that's not possible, so we took some great pictures of a few special moments.

Coming off the escalator, we were greeted by this view..

 It was just after 10 AM on opening day; this was before anything was open.

all dressed up waiting for the parade

"aren't they cute?"

All kinds of outfits...

This guy was very Happy!

 Now- this lady was funny! She was riding side-saddle on this horse, lead by the man in the front. However; she kept "almost" sliding off which is where the man on the side comes in...he kept pushing her back on!! LOL

one of my Favorite People..the German Polize!

Doesn't this man look like he belongs in a Shakespearean Play?

The Boy's favorite Beer tent!

Alright guys...they are saying Hello!!

And let us not forget our schnapps!

I couldn't forget the wine drinkers!

 And what can I say about the following guy...his outfit is too small. He should have waxed. And the shoes and socks...a BIG NO-NO!

plus it's too short.

This years hats

 We went into a place for lunch and our "First Beer". We were seated at a very crowded table that had the best people! We met this wonderful couple with whom we became instant friends, and spent the entire evening with. Needless to say, when you hit-it-off with someone that quickly "Life long friendship is a given!!

Linda and Dennis 

They have lived in Munich for the last four years. Dennis works for Micro-Soft. His job has him traveling quite a bit, and Linda usually goes with him. Her favorite place so far? Israel!
 Well that about sums thing up..Rich and I enjoyed all of this with Chris and Cousin Linda as well, I'm already looking forward to next year!!!!!! And to all on the Train ride home...
                                             Happy Hangover's.

Changing Seasons and Meals

Fall just around the corner, Thanksgiving coming up fast and just 98 days till Christmas! I just "love" this time of year. Fresh crispy air, raking leaves, frost on the morning ground.. then comes the snow, Life is wonderful! It's also the time of season to change the way we cook; gone are the salads, watermelon and corn on the cob...now we bring on the "warmer comfort foods". But don't forget what you've done this summer and lets keep up with the exercise people! We've worked much to hard to slow down now.
For those that know me well, I'm a huge recipe collector- so as I come across Great tasting ones for the season you can be sure that I'll be adding them to my post. So if you have any favorites "even if  they hold a story or two" Please send them to me to share with all!
I'll have to cut this short..Rich just phoned and asked if I could be ready to leave in an hour "for Oktoberfest" Is he kidding?? But of course I can!!! Enjoy your weekends and I will post pictures when I get back. 

Nice weather

All has been quite for the last couple of days. It's been nice to just enjoy the day without having to run here or there. This weekend we will be in Munich at Oktoberfest, and yes...I will take plenty of pictures! "any request?" We will be meeting up with Chris-"Mac" and Linda at the hotel; it's going to be nice catching up with them, especially since Linda will be flying back to Maine for awhile! "Does that mean our cooking class for Truffles is off next month?" Oh well, guess I'll have to get a friend to join me for a week of classes in Italy. As long as I don't have to cook anything weird I'll be fine.
I want to thank everyone for their e-mail letters of advise for the Blog "Selfish". You all had a good point and I appreciated all of your opinions!! So much in fact, that I saved them all so whenever I feel like I could be a better Parent/Grandparent I'll have them to re-read. Another good thing is that Rich and I will be able to look forward to having our Grandchildren for Three weeks every summer! So, keep those passports up-to-date; and make plans for a visit! {wherever we are, friends and family will always be welcomed}

Guest Suite

Still need to hang pictures

Private entrance

Guest bath

Guest kitchen..sink, two burners and fridge

As you can see...there is a half bath off the kitchen that also has entrance into guest room.

1st Floor

Kitchen

 

Stove/hood

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

lots of room

Still need to fix cords...perhaps a shelf

View from my kitchen

2nd Floor

Living room

Balcony off living room

living room view toward bath

still scanning LR

Lots of windows

Office

 

My space is on the left- Rich's on the right

Seating in the office

2nd floor bath

Really deep large tub

3 rd Floor

Gym on the Left, Master BR on the Right

View toward bath and gym

MB sitting area, still need to hang pictures

 

Mikey

 

Gym

 

Gym

 

End of Summer

Alright...I'm so sorry. I didn't get to the pictures yesterday...Terri and I didn't get back from our little shopping trip until almost 5:30, {we had a great time} then Rich and I had to leave for a dinner/get-together with Embassy people. {it was alright..a bit chilly to sit outside though} However; I have already begun to take pictures of the rooms..so I can promise you that they will be up before I go to bed tonight!
Tomorrow Rich and I are going to the Annual "Sharing of the Cheese" on Magisalp. It's held in the Alps, it's a unique event that marks the end of the Alpine summer season. A colorful parade of cows will descend from Alpine pastures; it will be a day of music, food and drink. We'll be sure to get plenty of pictures! It may end up being a weekend trip.!

Fall is coming

I know Fall is two weeks away, but over here I already have leaves falling along with pine needles! Mikey began his "Fall Collection" this morning when he came in from outside, a huge yellow/orange maple leaf- along with a big smile!! He's so fun.
My friend Terri is meeting me today..we're going to check out what's new at Ikea. 
Going into the markets here have that extra touch with the fall decor, and the air has that fresh crispy smell that I love so much. Now all the leaves haven't changed...just a few; Enough to say Fall is on the way.
I will go around the house later today and take pictures of the rooms to post. So far, I only have curtains in the living-room, but perhaps you will be able to give me some pointers on arranging the furniture and colors for decorating. I need to order a new bed cover set for the Master bedroom; so prepare yourselves..I have to order online-King size. I look forward to seeing what you come up with.
And since the weather is finally cooling I'll be able to start sending chocolate in the mail. Something to look forward to!

Labor Day

Rich decided he wanted to have a labor day BBQ for everyone who helped us when we moved here. All of whom are now "Good Friends". We had picked up the meat when we were at the commissary, so all I needed to prepare were the 3 salads, a 7 layer dip with my homemade tortilla chips, sauce for the chicken and spice rub for the roast. Most everyone brought a dessert to share, so we had an abundance of food! Everyone had a wonderful time and I was glad that they enjoyed my cooking! We gave a few tours of the house...well at least they ""seemed"" impressed! It turned out to be a great day with good friends. We already have plans for Oktoberfest, but I'm sure we'll come up with something before that! I hope everyone had a happy, relaxing and safe day.

Toblerone Fest

Well, chocolate day has come and gone with what "I'm sure" was a sugar high for many.

The biggest chocolate bar I've seen

 It was more difficult than it looks. They were using wooden hammers and picks; it took them well over an hour to chop this up!

T

They would place chunks of this candy on tin pie pans and pass it through the crowd

S

Some kids were coming back with mouths packed and hands full:

I think this was his third trip to the pan

However not only did they get to eat the candy, they were able to learn the process in making it.

These two girls are learning to grind the cocoa. Using stone on stone.

After they were done, they had the opportunity to make their very own chocolate toblerone fondue. Getting the mixture just right with the cocoa, sugar, toffee chips and vanilla.

Doesn't it look like they had fun??

All and all at the end of the day a good time was had by all, as for Rich and I? We left with good friends to have a drink and dinner...which was very nice.
Sweet dreams everyone!!

Rich...sigh'

Alright everyone, here it is:
Rich and I are having a BBQ on Monday, so in preparation we went to a patio store to purchase a "Fest Table". While at the check-out Rich made the comment; I hope this fits in the car. I noticed "straps" to hold things on top of the car and pointed them out...his reply? Oh good, if it doesn't fit I can come back in and buy some! Five minutes later he had the car pulled around to the loading area and proceeded to fold down the seats and load the table. Alright table in; no problem..now the two benches...I'm leaning in the car from the back door when he tries to close the back; I saw that the window was hitting the glass and yelled "stop! your going to break the window!! {Did he stop??} NO!! All of a sudden the next thing I heard was the sound of "shattering glass, with glass flying everywhere" At that point I just hung my head...speechless.

I now have a dent in the hood, a crack in the front window and NO back window!

 Holding back my laughter, Rich gets into the car, buckles his seat belt and looks around the table at me saying "Don't worry Babe, I'll have the car fix up as good as new" My response was; Well, we still have a few windows left...don't you want to finish it off first? have it fixed all at once?! 
Another story for..."Let me tell you about the day Grampa bought this Fest table......."

Selfish?

I guess the last few days have had me wondering if Rich and I are doing what's best for our Family or Ourselves. We've spent our life together moving around from State to State, Country to Country. #30 homes later- here we are living in Switzerland! Meanwhile we have three wonderful boys that we hardly ever see, two Daughter-In-Laws whom I love dearly but never see, two Beautiful Grandchildren that "if I'm real lucky, get to see twice a year"; and another on the way that I'll also get to watch grow-up on line.
Is it time that we settled down, buy a home,...will it change anything? The boy's have their own families, life's and activities. The Grandchildren have school, sports and friends. How often would we actually see them? Once a week or two? Maybe once a month or two? Or would it be like now, without the traveling to different country's? We often joke about how Sheaylnn is on Passport number three, and Brady's about to get his second. We've even talked about how our new Grandchild's First picture will be for his/her First Passport. Being born into the Fisher Family means...you must have one!!
I've always said that I wouldn't "intrude or try to run our boys life- the way I think it should be." We've always promised to have our own lives and not "take over" theirs with our opinions on how they should do things.  Rich and I promised ourselves that no-matter where we were, we would "ALWAYS" be there for the kids and their families...jumping on the next thing flying State-side if they needed us. But is that enough? Should we re-think the way we live/travel? Do the kids want us to be there in person everyday? Would we be able to stay in one place for more than three years? Would we all feel cramped?  I just don't know........

Coffee

Yesterday morning I went to my first "welcome coffee". It was held at the Corn house- "a Cafe' downtown" I had already met a few of the ladies, but it was nice to put a face to all the names again...I'm so bad at remembering names!! My friend Lisa did not make it, they received their household goods on Monday, and they had a lot of damage! More than {what we call the usual} At one point she stopped unpacking; she said she just couldn't take anymore. One of the many hazards of moving as much as we do.
I was texing with Marissa last night, they were suppose to find out if they are having a Boy or Girl. Well the baby would not cooperate..and stayed curled up in a ball sleeping"AHHH Cute!" {I say that's what you get for keeping him so excited on the Ride-Along} Now he's exhausted!! But Baby is very healthy and we'll just have to wait until October to {maybe} find out. In the mean time I get to buy furniture for the "home nursery". Hawaiian Grandma will get to decorate the "work nursery". You can probably tell: neither one of us are excited!!