I still can't believe I'm in Europe. I just never thought I would have the opportunity/funds to pull something off this extravagant. But I worked hard for this, and now it's time to enjoy what I earned. All three plane rides over here proved to be interesting, but pleasant. The first four hours to Detroit consisted of a two hour nap, then free satellite television! Naturally, I watched "Friends" and "The Office". The trip definitely started off well. Once in Detroit, I and the other passengers were told just minutes before we were to begin boarding that there was a plane change. The one we were supposed to fly in was having maintenance issues. Of course, it's a good thing these issues were caught before flying eight hours over the ocean. However, our new plane was 51 seats too small. The bidding began at a $600 flight voucher and complimentary room at a hotel to whoever gave up their seat. Personally, I did not see one person give up their seat, but an hour later we were boarding. I lucked out with a window seat yet again, but predicted a sleepless flight since we were now going to be landing just a few minutes before my next flight began boarding. However, soon after takeoff I discovered free movies on the little tv in front of me. I clicked on "Dear John" and was golden. I took a quick break to help the old lady next to me choose the same movie on her tv [Nicholas Sparks entrances women of all ages :) ], and was soon swept into the movie that of course wasn't quite as remarkable as the book, but Channing Tatum was SUPERB. Yes, he could have stood in the background without a word the entire movie and I would have the same opinion. I mean, the man looks GOOD. The next morning I landed in Amsterdam. Once off the plane I began my sprint across the entire length of the airport to my next gate. In line for customs, I managed to make eye contact and smile at one of the men checking passports, so he opened up his line and I was through in seconds. Thanks for the good looks, Mom! In the end, I made it to the gate just before the flight attendant closed the door. In just one hour I was going to be in Munich. After almost a full 24 hours of travel, I was off the plane and heading out into my first European country. But wait, not without a stroke of bad luck! Two people's bags did not get checked all the way through out of about five flights that just arrived. I was one of the lucky two. After filling out the necessary paperwork about the "lost baggage", I walked to meet Logan in frustration. Immediately when I saw him, my frustration vanished and I couldn't have been more excited. Three out of four months of a relationship living in different countries kind of makes you miss that significant other just a bit. We hopped on the train and I got a tour of the gorgeous countryside. The green was so rich, the yellows so vibrant, and even the browns were beautiful.
It had been a long journey with only a few hours of sleep, so I took a quick 2.5 hour nap. When I awoke, Logan had dinner all made and set out with a candle lit in the center. Brownie points! After a delicious dinner we were off to explore the nearby park, which reminded me of Washington. Again, it was so beautiful. Logan's dorm room looks out at the BMW factory, so it's a very good thing such a pretty park was walking distance away. I ended up not getting my bag until the following evening, but I was so happy to get it at all. The rest of the weekend was spent walking around the city. We walked through three churches, all very different but equally beautiful. I have come to find that the essence of Germany is meat, potatoes, and beer. Yet I hardly see any large and in charge people...it must be an American talent. A street fair was going on today, complete with all kinds of food stands, informational booths, and a stage where locals sang American oldies and the "Grease" soundtrack. Not what I was expecting, but at least I knew the words to these songs! We went to Munich's science museum today...and were denied access to the kid's kingdom play area. Not fair. Luckily there were a few buttons to push in a couple of the areas about the human body and one's carbon footprint.
This weekend has been the calm before the storm. In about five hours we will be on our way to Paris--With Logan carrying my backpack that is well over double the size of his backpack...but a girl's got to have options! I'll write more the next available opportunity, but I know even if that is not for a while, I will have a hard time forgetting any details. Let the adventures begin!
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| World Famous Hofbrahaus! |
