tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36542150460115892312024-02-07T21:45:24.768+01:00An American in Wiesbadenshoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comBlogger195125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-14340777894678243472013-08-13T14:41:00.000+02:002013-08-13T14:41:06.925+02:00New blog, new start<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9472332814/" title="blog header_option2_1050w by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="blog header_option2_1050w" class="resize" height="206" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7436/9472332814_9bf0fa681a_z.jpg" /></a>
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It has been a wonderful past few years here on An American in Wiesbaden. I started this blog, like so many other expats, to chronicle the massive life change that is moving 5,000 miles away to make a home in a new country where you don't even speak the language. After being settled (mostly) for almost four years and learning the language (sort of), I have realized I define myself by so much more than just being an expat. I'm a cook, a writer, an explorer, a fashion-follower, a design lover, a shoe aficionado.<br />
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So after deciding to leave this wonderful town we have called home for the past several years and move on to a new adventure in Berlin later this year, I figured the time had come to start a new blog to share all my passions: my re-designed and reinvigorated blog, <a href="http://www.solesatisfactionblog.com/">Sole Satisfaction</a>. It is now the place where I will write about not only what satisfies my soles, but my soul as well: cooking, and more importantly - eating, travel, fashion, design and living life in Europe. I hope you will continue to follow my journey to Berlin - and wherever else life takes me.<br />
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I will be leaving this blog active so that anyone seeking information about expat life or Germany or travel in general can still use it as a resource, but it will no longer be updated. I have received so many heartwarming notes from people who have thanked me for my blog and helping their transition overseas, I only hope more people will find something of value here. Thank you for reading!<br />
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Tschüss! shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-41047034511054014942013-08-09T12:59:00.000+02:002013-08-09T12:59:28.083+02:00A weekend wedding celebration in France<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471495836/" title="wedding_france_cardan_vineyard by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_france_cardan_vineyard" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/9471495836_287ec99760_z.jpg" /></a>
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Our trip to France last month took us to Paris, through the amazing French countryside, to the Atlantic coast and back again, but what in fact brought us to one of my favorite countries: a wedding. Since we were unable to accept two amazing European wedding invitations in the last few years, we figured this was an opportunity we could not pass up. Not only were our friends getting married in France, but they were hosting the weekend's festivities at their recently purchased chateau and vineyard just outside of Bordeaux. Talk about a dream wedding scenario.<br />
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The wedding festivities, while held in France and with all services performed in French, had definite influences from this international couple: him from England, her from Romania. Even the guest list was made up of people from all over Europe, a handful of American expats and even one work colleague who traveled all the way from Russia. Let me tell you, this bunch knew how to party. Dancing had begun not only before dinner, but before the tent and dance floor were even open for the evening, with people grabbing partners and taking advantage of whatever space they could. Not to let my own heritage have too much of a bias, but Eastern Europeans might be the most exuberant and dedicated partiers I've ever met.<br />
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With one day for the civil ceremony and the other for the marriage in the church, the parties were scheduled to last all weekend. Not only was there dancing - and lots of it - but this foodie's belly was in heaven. Saturday, merely called a 'garden party', was complete with countless hors d'oeuvres, an amazing salad spread and not one, but two pigs roasting on a spit. In what I can only call the best dessert decision ever, bite-sized sweets ranging from macarons to mini eclairs to little cups of fruity, creamy heaven were set out alongside French mainstays of bread, fruit and cheese. Needless to say, after such indulgences, we were already dreaming of the following day's menu - but we were not even close to prepared. Appetizers of butter-seared foie gras on toast and creamy sweetbreads (my first ever) wrapped in flaky pastry could only be outdone by dinner's caramelized duck breast with candied citrus and chanterelles. Of course, endless bottles from <a href="http://www.damanieu.fr/">the couple's own vineyard</a> was just icing on the rose-covered, firework-adorned cake.<br />
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We called this amazing couple neighbors for an unfortunately short amount of time, but managed to spend holidays together and form a connection I only hope will last a very long time. They are truly the kind of people you feel lucky to even know. And if you happen to notice the bride's Linda Hamilton-circa-Terminator-2 biceps, that's because in addition to being a full-time lawyer - in not her native language - and now part-time wine maker, she's also <a href="http://www.lunion.presse.fr/autres-actus/tennis-de-table-pro-a-fem-natalia-jour-de-gloire-ia0b0n131664">an incredible table tennis champion</a>. Seriously, this couple brings <i>joie de vivre</i> to a whole new level and we left humbled and inspired to live a life even half as full as theirs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468709961/" title="timandnatalia_civilceremony_wedding_france by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_civilceremony_wedding_france" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3718/9468709961_2b0e209579_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471875372/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_france_cardan_mairie_hands by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_france_cardan_mairie_hands" class="resize" height="438" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7360/9471875372_d864e19497_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471497456/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_party_chateau_house by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_party_chateau_house" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7385/9471497456_ef83a68cff_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468714307/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_garden_party by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_garden_party" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7300/9468714307_b5bd226385_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471495516/" title="wedding_france_champagne by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_france_champagne" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3687/9471495516_ff4ab0c34a_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471492440/" title="wedding_garden_party_dessert_buffet_fruit by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_garden_party_dessert_buffet_fruit" class="resize" height="298" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3787/9471492440_b5e6d73aee_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468711045/" title="wedding_party_dessert_cheese by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_party_dessert_cheese" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3710/9468711045_e6810875ea_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468712603/" title="wedding_eglise_orthodoxe_saint_joseph_de_bordeaux by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_eglise_orthodoxe_saint_joseph_de_bordeaux" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5332/9468712603_856f7c606f_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471496594/" title="wedding_bordeaux_france_church_mosaic_tile by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_bordeaux_france_church_mosaic_tile" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3783/9471496594_2aa704846b_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468710631/" title="natalia_wedding_bordeaux_church by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="natalia_wedding_bordeaux_church" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2870/9468710631_c4fb3b5f3c_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471493028/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_bordeaux_france_church_ceremony by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_bordeaux_france_church_ceremony" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/9471493028_e52a1e623d_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9472093650/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_bordeaux_church_kiss_2 by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_bordeaux_church_kiss_2" class="resize" height="293" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2821/9472093650_efa62204e1_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471493726/" title="natalia_wedding_bordeaux_france_flowers by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="natalia_wedding_bordeaux_france_flowers" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5511/9471493726_91fcc17ebd_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471492240/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_bordeaux_church_kids by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_bordeaux_church_kids" class="resize" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7291/9471492240_6d955a21a2_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468712847/" title="wedding_bordeaux_france_flower_petals by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_bordeaux_france_flower_petals" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5442/9468712847_0924c8b358_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471495216/" title="wedding_france_reception_horsdoeuvres by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_france_reception_horsdoeuvres" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5510/9471495216_679dc66dce_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9469250079/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_guests_photos by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_guests_photos" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7413/9469250079_6a5d7164c1_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9469250315/" title="wedding_reception_france_early_dancing by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_reception_france_early_dancing" class="resize" height="419" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5499/9469250315_6f8005cbc1_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471494732/" title="wedding_france_wine_vineyard_Château_Amanieu_d'Albret by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_france_wine_vineyard_Château_Amanieu_d'Albret" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7385/9471494732_d0538903e6_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471496990/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_violinist by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_violinist" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3715/9471496990_1e4d33e861_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471496816/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_women_dancing by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_women_dancing" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7334/9471496816_fb0bd2f712_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471875628/" title="wedding_reception_france_women_dancing by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_reception_france_women_dancing" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2831/9471875628_964333f5c8_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471492634/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_france_russian_dancing by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_france_russian_dancing" class="resize" height="393" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5482/9471492634_6924591860_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9469250271/" title="wedding_reception_france_natalia_shoes by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_reception_france_natalia_shoes" class="resize" height="386" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2809/9469250271_befd3b7606_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468713733/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_france_twilight_vineyard_guests_moon by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_france_twilight_vineyard_guests_moon" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2831/9468713733_93fa838a69_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471492078/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_france_reception_chateau_home by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_france_reception_chateau_home" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7299/9471492078_777f418f56_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468709099/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_dinner_courses_cheese by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_reception_dinner_courses_cheese" class="resize" height="273" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7308/9468709099_51189bca51_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468709387/" title="timandnatalia_wedding_france_reception_cake_sparklers by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="timandnatalia_wedding_france_reception_cake_sparklers" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/9468709387_b44856c1ac_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471494174/" title="wedding_reception_france_night_dancing_dancefloor by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_reception_france_night_dancing_dancefloor" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2836/9471494174_1fdcd50038_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471493602/" title="russ_wedding_france_reception_lanterns by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="russ_wedding_france_reception_lanterns" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2829/9471493602_ceeb0dd5e5_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9468711645/" title="wedding_france_reception_lanterns by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_france_reception_lanterns" class="resize" height="424" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3818/9468711645_3d6d48fb2d_z.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58153692@N07/9471664968/" title="wedding_france_reception_night_lanterns by kate_wirth, on Flickr"><img alt="wedding_france_reception_night_lanterns" class="resize" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5324/9471664968_1406aafab4_z.jpg" /></a>shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-37453564217847533182013-07-26T12:14:00.002+02:002013-07-26T12:14:57.804+02:00I love the French grocery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Many people might dream about all the foie gras and countless cream-based dishes they will consume when they go to France, but my new love of French eating is a lot simpler: the grocery store. The last couple of weeks driving across France had me convinced that we should be making a run for the border to do our grocery shopping on a regular basis.<br />
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Being on a road trip with some definite budgetary restrictions (I know Berlin, <i>we're coming!</i>), not to mention contending with my major headaches nine of the eleven days we were gone, grabbing snacks and light fare at the groceries seemed like the way to go. Not expecting more than decent 'grocery food', we were blown away by both the assortment and the quality that exists at the average Carrefour. Everything we tasted was delicious and even the processed stuff had some of the shortest ingredient lists I'd ever seen. Perhaps some of it was the novelty of being in another country with different tastes, but I truly believe the French might be at the top of the world's grocery quality.<br />
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Yogurt (and custards and all assortments of creamy desserts) didn't come in cheap, colorful plastic, they came in glass bowls and painted crockery. The pre-made salads were far and away better than just about anything I've had in German restaurants. And that mint tabbouleh above? Might be my new favorite thing. Lest you think it was all high-end stuff, we developed a serious crush on what can only be called French Cheetos. Albeit, they did come in flavors like French (read: stinky) cheese or goat's cheese and pepper. It seems even the junk food is swanky.<br />
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The <i>pièce de résistance</i> for me was one of the best ice cream bars I've ever eaten. Frankly, I was stunned that I had yet to see this from the Magnum assortment in our country, as Germans have a serious love affair with all things apple. Oh, but it was so much more than just apple, with pieces of spiced cookie and cinnamon-speckled white chocolate coating... Even if all this doesn't sound high brow enough to satiate ones desire for more rich French flavors, not to worry. Cans of pâté and the like are abundant as well - even in the gas station shops.<br />
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Until next time, France, I will be dreaming of your grocery aisles...<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-36393972008036058592013-07-23T14:28:00.000+02:002013-07-23T14:28:18.665+02:00Back from France<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While I have been to France numerous times before, this trip was something rather special. We were able to attend not only an amazing two-day wedding celebration on our friends' vineyard just outside Bordeaux, but we got to see so much of this beautiful country that we might have missed had we not taken the roads less traveled, literally.<br />
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Avoiding costly toll roads meant meandering through towns so small, we passed through them in mere seconds. Being close to the Atlantic coast of France meant discovering places so stunning, it nearly brought tears to my eyes. I may have only caught glimpses of the Eiffel Tower while we were driving through Paris, but it truly was the little, lesser-known places that made this trip what it was. And even though we received news of a beloved family member's passing while we were gone, there was something about the beauty of where we were that helped center our thoughts on the celebration of life, rather than just the sadness of loss.<br />
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So as I take the time to gather my thoughts from our recent travels and sift through about a gazillion photos - not to mention do countless loads of laundry - please enjoy a couple highlights from our last couple of weeks traveling across France. I plan to save a few city- and restaurant-specific posts for my new blog - which will have a definite travel and foodie focus, in addition to fashion, design and of course, shoes! - but I hope to get a few special things up here as well. From Paris to Bordeaux to Arcachon to Chenonceau to Orleans, I'm sure there will be abundance of things to share.<br />
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Here's hoping your summer holidays take you places as magical as ours has!<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-19237029247358056432013-07-11T11:21:00.000+02:002013-07-22T15:06:36.482+02:00I'm famous! (sort of)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/kate_wiesbadenerkurier_zps0c091149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="365" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/kate_wiesbadenerkurier_zps0c091149.jpg" /></a></div>
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While I am here in Paris, enjoying <a href="http://www.lamaisonduchocolat.com/fr/index.php">my favorite <i>chocolat</i></a> and keeping away from the bi-annual <i>les soldes</i> so that I don't inadvertently spend all our Berlin savings, my little blog is getting a bit of publicity back in Wiesbaden. In yesterday's issue* (today's online edition) <a href="http://www.wiesbadener-kurier.de/region/wiesbaden/meldungen/13254685.htm">I was featured</a> in a series the Wiesbadener Kurier is doing on local bloggers, written by another local blogger and Wiesbaden native, <a href="http://piepmatzblog.blogspot.de/">Vivienne Matz</a>.<br />
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So while I'm still traipsing around France - next stop: Bordeaux and a vineyard wedding! - do take a look at my first little bit of press. For those of you who are English-only, Google translate is an imperfect lifesaver. It is especially entertaining when it translates 'her husband Russ and female dog Bailey' as 'dog lady Russ Bailey'. Bear with it though, it seems even Google can't help some things from getting lost in translation.<br />
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<i>*Update: Originally slated to run in the Wednesday issue, my feature was actually in the Thursday print edition as well. Sorry to friends who went out and bought the Wednesday paper, expecting me to be in it!</i><br />
<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-62867469433832382762013-07-08T14:58:00.001+02:002013-07-08T14:58:47.659+02:00Music Monday: A France road trip playlist<div style="position: relative;">
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="639" src="https://embed.spotify.com/?uri=spotify:user:shoegirlinde:playlist:0jWiDxHat2z6J9iEkUAe8i" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="505"></iframe></div>
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What could be more important to a long road trip than some good music? With us hitting the road for Paris tomorrow morning, I have been picturing warm sun, the French countryside rolling by and just the right mood-setting tunes. A few of my current faves, a little bit of classic and of course, a little something French - including my favorite Paris-based band, Lilly Wood and The Prick. <br />
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<i>À bientôt!</i>shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-12096479890281824592013-07-05T15:17:00.000+02:002013-07-05T15:35:16.737+02:00Who do you want to be when you travel? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/shoes_packing_france_paris_converse_nike_paulgreen_zps7548a5d0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="263" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/shoes_packing_france_paris_converse_nike_paulgreen_zps7548a5d0.jpg" /><i>So many shoes to consider... not enough days to wear them all</i></a></div>
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This admission may come as no surprise, but: I am over-packer. Not only am I the left-brained, cautious planner who wants to make sure that every possible travel scenario is covered - from lost luggage to freak mid-summer snowstorm - but I'm also the right-brained dreamer who revels in the opportunity to be whoever I want to be in each new place I visit. I can't be the only person who sees travel as a kind of escapism from who you are in daily life (<i>right..?</i>).<br />
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Travel to me is a lot like being an expat: you are anonymous and new (not so-and-so's daughter, or that girl in high school who did something horribly embarrassing), and therefore can be anyone you want to be. So an excursion like next week's road trip across the entirety of France presents a particularly challenging packing dilemma: who do I want to be this trip? Do I want to be the fashionable Parisian? The knowledgeable wine country woman? The seaside luxuriator? Or something else entirely...?<br />
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I imagine my luggage will consist of a lot of blue, red and stripes, in a very French, but also very me, statement. Little nods to the French countryside (floral accents and a bag big enough to tote a bottle of wine and a baguette for the impromptu picnic) and the south of France coast (sea-tousled hair and large sunnies) not to mention a few of-the-moment items (<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/new_release_liberty_nike_dunk/thing?context_id=87729936&context_type=collection&id=87115496">wedge sneakers</a>, anyone?) for the likes of Paris will be tucked in there amongst some of my favorite items. For me, it's all about balancing who I am with what I want out of a holiday and what the locals are like. One part me + two parts the location = what I dream my holiday self to be.<br />
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Who I dream of being in Bordeaux...<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/in_bordeaux/set?id=88137254"><img alt="In Bordeaux..." border="0" height="418" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/EJ8WMW4e54DuzHLjDgx7g/cid/88137254/id/39l3NJMZRrSElFbcRp573g/size/c505x418.jpg" title="In Bordeaux..." width="505" /></a></div>
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Who I'd like to be in Arcachon...<br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/in_arcachon/set?id=88259152"><img alt="In Arcachon..." border="0" height="365" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/xVib4xcTd81oFFk1iFolkQ/cid/88259152/id/ngjoEa6TT9O6I8tezn8Oag/size/c505x365.jpg" title="In Arcachon..." width="505" /></a></div>
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Here's to culling down the piles strewn all around our apartment into some semblance of a cohesive wardrobe in time for our departure early next week!<br />
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Who are you when you go on holiday..?<br />
<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-63497178676038734522013-07-01T15:00:00.003+02:002013-07-05T11:05:27.235+02:00Packing for Paris<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=87729936" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"> <img alt="Paris, July 2013" border="0" force="1" height="416" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/2pGZnbzmwVygHeq2ebDQ/cid/87729936/id/oxIKwWMsQDOsxnw8HzFv3g/size/c505x416.jpg" title="Paris, July 2013" width="505" /></a></div>
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As excited as I am about next week's holiday in French wine country and at the seaside, Paris is by far the bit I get most excited to pack for. There is an energy and sense of style like no other, and I can't help but feel inspired whenever I am in this wonderful city.</div>
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To help differentiate myself from the throngs of tourists in this peak season, I plan to keep away from the museums and tourist attractions, just eating at <a href="http://www.lecamionquifume.com/">burger trucks</a> and <a href="http://www.candelariaparis.com/">our favorite hole-in-the-wall taco place</a>, strolling the streets and soaking in the <i>joie de vivre</i> - and I plan to pack accordingly. While I greatly admire the Parisian who can somehow maneuver the steep streets of the 18th and the city's cobblestones while in three-inch heels and balancing her of-the-moment designer bag on her delicate wrist after dropping €20 on her <i>café et croissant</i>, I must admit to being a bit more practical.<br />
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I'm thinking, casual, classic French with some fashion-forward updates (picture <a href="http://www.etpourquoipascoline.fr/">Coline</a>, but painfully less cool). A spritz of my favorite Chanel, a hands-free bag for making full use of my new DSLR and the perfect soundtrack for people-watching in the park, and I'm set. Well, with a good hat and umbrella for those <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/fr/paris/623/july-weather/623">notorious grey and rainy Paris days</a>, of course (yes, even in the summer). Now to just practice my French and that aloof city attitude...<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Style photo credits, top to bottom: <a href="http://www.etpourquoipascoline.fr/2012/10/blazer/">Et Pourquoi Pas Coline</a>, unknown <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/183310647305294225/">via Pinterest</a>, <a href="http://lookbook.nu/look/1761992-LITTLE-MISS-SUNSHINE">Andy T. on Lookbook.nu</a></span></i></div>
shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-62640222950189565642013-06-28T12:18:00.000+02:002013-06-28T12:18:07.188+02:00France roadtrip: a vineyard wedding, seaside relaxation & the city that is always a good idea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/france_roadtrip_paris_bordeaux_text_zpsb268984f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="292" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/france_roadtrip_paris_bordeaux_text_zpsb268984f.jpg" /></a></div>
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We are finally booked for France! Between being frugal to save for Berlin and fretting about not having a proper holiday in <i>forever</i>, we took until the very last minute to decide that this was one trip we could not pass up (no matter how it may push back our Berlin move date). I mean, a two days of parties to celebrate our friends' wedding on <a href="http://www.damanieu.fr/">their vineyard</a> just outside Bordeaux, some much-needed relaxation time on the coast (seriously, this California girl is having major summertime withdrawals not being close to an ocean anymore) and of course, a conveniently located few days in the middle because, really, <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/183310647305600118/">Paris is always a good idea</a>, <i>n'est-ce pas</i>? How could we say no?<br />
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So I'm counting down the days (11, to be exact) I have to pack a fabulous French wardrobe full of wedding-worthy dresses, seaside stripes and fashion-forward pieces appropriate for every city on our itinerary, not to mention scope out some great places to eat along the way. I'm just thankful I don't have to restrict my baggage - the back of our car will fit a lot of shoes!<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-84885362482958130732013-06-26T11:57:00.000+02:002013-06-26T19:13:03.628+02:00Time for some new glasses!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/warbyparker_which_pair_collage2_zps2953df6e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="271" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/warbyparker_which_pair_collage2_zps2953df6e.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you can believe it, this blind-as-a-bat daily glasses-wearer has gone three years without getting her eyes checked! Mostly because I love all my frames so much (yes, I have, <i>ahem</i>, five pairs) and resisted having to change them, I gave in to take advantage of a coupon to a local shop for a free box of contacts for summer. So with my new Rx in my hot little hands, I am finally ready for something fresh and new!<br />
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Seeing that Warby Parker frames are so affordable and its selection is so extensive - not to mention that the quality and customer service is stellar - it's hard to pick just one (or two, or three..) new frames. The only downside: they are only in the US, so clearly I cannot take part in the awesome <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/home-try-on">home try-on program</a>. So I just have to go with what I know works for my face and hope for the best. I think I've narrowed it down to the ones below... What do you think?<br />
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<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/warbyparker_glasses_bigandbold_collage_zpsb4465286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="178" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/warbyparker_glasses_bigandbold_collage_zpsb4465286.jpg" /></a>big & bold: <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/crosby#revolver-black">crosby</a> // <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/duckworth#marine-slate">duckworth</a> // <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/preston#pearled-tortoise">preston</a></div>
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<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/warbyparker_glasses_sleek_collage_zps4c2f8a7d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="191" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/warbyparker_glasses_sleek_collage_zps4c2f8a7d.jpg" /></a>sleek & classic: <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/sims#violet-magnolia">sims</a> // <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/ainsworth#striped-chestnut">ainsworth</a> // <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/arthur#gimlet-tortoise">arthur</a> </div>
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Now if only Warby Parker would start selling in Europe... (hint, hint, guys!)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>photos of me by <a href="http://www.eatingwiesbaden.com/">Christie Dietz </a></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span>shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-10198378822163369132013-06-21T15:08:00.001+02:002013-06-21T15:08:47.889+02:00Happy first day of summer!<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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This week, we got a sneak preview of summer with sudden temperatures of the 'threatening to melt' variety and when I was not in a state of heat-induced delirium, I was actually reveling in the sun on my bare skin and the need to <i>finally</i> break out my sunnies (Germany is notoriously overcast, and this from an SF bay native). It almost made me feel like I was a California girl again. Almost. </div>
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Happy first day of summer everyone! Here's to more fun, sun and some seasonally-appropriate holidays. I don't know about you, but the beach is calling to me...</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><small><a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/tassel-blanket-t216/?pkey=cthrow-blankets&cm_src=throw-blankets%7C%7CNoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-&bnrid=3918040&cm_ven=intl&cm_cat=intl&cm_pla=GAN&cm_ite=Std">blanket</a> / <a href="http://poketo.com/shop/accessories/Leather%20Triple-Chevron-Necklace">necklace</a> / <a href="http://www.anthropologie.eu/en/europe/jewellery+accessories/washed-straw-hat/invt/7152442261313/&bklist=icat,5,shop,sale,shopbysale,saleaccessories">hat</a> / <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/women/preston#seaglass-blue">eyeglasses</a> / <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses/women/jasper#orange-fizz">round sunnies</a> / <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/sunglasses/women/winston#ginger-lemonade">square sunnies</a> / <a href="http://www.marc-o-polo.de/damen/schuhe-accessoires/taschen/mini-bag/gelb/12852-35000.html">bag</a> / <a href="http://www.refinery29.com/memorial-day-cocktails/slideshow?page=2#slide-13">margarita</a> / <a href="http://www.keds.com/store/SiteController/keds/productdetails?catId=cat610203&subCatId=cat610251&showDefaultOption=true&stockNumber=WF48491&skuId=***5********WF48491*M065&productId=5-177210&&subCatId=cat610251&productId=5-177210&stockNumber=WF48491&subCatTabId=&catId=cat610203&productdisplayName=Champion+Citrus&subcatdisplayName=Summer+Collection&skuId=***5********WF48491*M065&pageIdentifier=productdetail&catdisplayName=Women&showDefaultOption=true">sneaks </a>/ <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shorts/chinocotton/PRDOVR~68925/68925.jsp">shorts</a> / <a href="http://www.bodendirect.de/de-DE/Damen-Oberteile-T-Shirts/Tops-mit-Kurzarm/WL726-WHT/Damen-Wei%C3%9F-Strukturiertes-Leinenshirt.html">tee</a></small></span><br />
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shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-52660012648735801132013-06-14T13:56:00.000+02:002013-06-14T13:56:06.549+02:00A few Friday things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/DSC_0017_zps057165f5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="263" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/DSC_0017_zps057165f5.jpg" /></a></div>
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While it is finally starting to warm up here like proper June weather, the threat of rain and thunderstorms is always looming overhead, usually just as I am about to put on some cute suede sandals and am forced to throw on water-worthy sneaks instead. It's no wonder my day-to-day footwear is not representative of my extensive shoe collection!<br />
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Here are a few things on my radar this week:<br />
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Jimmy Kimmel is just killing it with <a href="http://youtu.be/00IpNWoaXiw">these</a> (and <a href="http://youtu.be/g87Xyt2agWQ">another</a>).<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/183310647305609658/">This</a> also made me laugh this week.<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/183310647305620051/">Wise words</a> on enjoying the good things you have...<br />
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... and <a href="http://www.clarevivier.com/products/small-duffel-escale">this</a> is the ultimate good thing I know I would enjoy for a lifetime (countdown to my birthday has undoubtedly begun).<br />
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Daydreaming about going <a href="http://www.dunedupilat.com/english/the-dune/">here</a> next month.<br />
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Been on a crafty streak ever since I took <a href="http://instagram.com/p/aLgB_FFpJp/">this</a> on. Think <a href="http://blog.imbreannarose.com/do-it-yourself-dotty-jeans/">these jeans</a> might be my next DIY.<br />
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While its customer service has been a bit shoddy, I still can't get enough of semi-new European brand <a href="http://www.stories.com/">& Other Stories</a> - especially its gorgeous collab with Alyson Fox and the fact that it's currently having its first sale ever.<br />
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Happy Friday and a wonderful weekend to all!<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-20656467526263433802013-06-13T14:03:00.000+02:002013-06-13T14:03:11.356+02:00Das Wilhelmstraßenfest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The annual Wiesbaden Wilhelmstraßenfest marks an important anniversary for us: three years since making our very first friends in Germany. With our life-long friends and relations half a world away, they have become a kind of family to us, sharing Thanksgivings, Christmases, New Years and all kinds of significant celebrations with us. It is bittersweet this year, as it is likely the last time we will enjoy this festival with the people who have really made Wiesbaden felt like home.<br />
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So I wish a very happy anniversary of friendship to those we have now known for three years, those we met at the 2011 Wilhelmstraßenfest and all the friends we have made in between. I am so thankful for everything that they have brought to our lives and will miss them terribly once we head to Berlin. The expat life is never an easy one, but the fulfillment we have gotten from knowing such great people has made all the hardships worth it.<br />
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Here's to our final fest season in Wiesbaden - bring on more Erdbeerbowle!<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-55701484212051458972013-06-10T13:29:00.000+02:002013-06-10T13:29:17.578+02:00Music Monday: Brian Williams raps Snoop Dogg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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You're welcome.<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-8576040752617263582013-06-07T14:56:00.001+02:002013-06-07T14:58:41.489+02:00Apartment Wishlist: Location, location, location<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/Apartment%20wishlist/berlin_kreuzberg_street_sunset_zpse762d230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="resize" height="400" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/Apartment%20wishlist/berlin_kreuzberg_street_sunset_zpse762d230.jpg" /><i>Sunset in a picturesque part of Kreuzberg</i></a></div>
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There is nothing truer than the three most important aspects of real estate: location, location, location. When we were in Berlin last week on our first apartment viewings, we realized that there was still so much we had yet to discover, both about neighborhoods we liked and neighborhoods we had yet to discover. With so many sub-neighborhoods within the larger ones (for those who aren't familiar, this city is <i>massive </i>- take the train for an hour... and you're still in Berlin), it's becoming increasingly clear that we have to love the streets around our apartment, perhaps even more so than the larger neighborhood itself. It's all well and good to live in an attractive building or a desirable neighborhood, but if the nearest good coffee requires a trip on the U-Bahn and walking anywhere for dinner calls for a map and hiking boots, then I have to wonder what is the point of city living.<br />
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Our first apartment viewing was tucked in the cutest little neighborhood, with stunningly detailed architecture, stone streets and tons of shops, restaurants and trees. Then we got to the apartment. While equally beautiful and well-maintained as everything around it, the space itself was difficult, to say the least. The rooms were broken up in such a way that wasn't meant for modern furnishings - i.e. the bedroom door would not actually open with anything more than a twin size bed in it. Additionally, the balcony we thought we saw in the photos was merely a gate across a floor-length window and the constant sounds of a kindergarten beneath the windows was less than ideal for two people who work from home.<br />
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The next apartment was just the opposite. The interior of the apartment was perfect: the layout, the two bathrooms, the two balconies, spacious bedroom and living room. Then we spent time walking around the neighborhood. Between the major traffic just on the other side of the building, the boring, suburban-type complexes that stretched for several blocks and the fact that the closest street of shops and cafes was not only rather far away, but offered little beyond random businesses and unappetizing looking food, we realized that we would be mostly apartment-bound way out there.<br />
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While we initially felt a little discouraged after striking out, our spirits were lifted when we were introduced a neighborhood we had seen next to none of - Charlottenburg - by a new Berlin friend whose admiration for her part of town definitely rubbed off on us. We didn't get to see as much of Charlottenburg as we would have liked, but it was enough to add it to our apartment searches. In addition to having good coffee shops in the neighborhood, I would also have someone to enjoy a cup with every once in a while.<br />
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Thankfully, we have plenty of time to dedicate to finding just the right place, which hopefully means we can find that balance between the perfect apartment and the perfect neighborhood. There's only so much we can do when looking at apartments online and not being able to see the surrounding area until we plan our next trip. If anyone in Berlin has a heads-up on something fantastic (2-3 rooms, preferably Prenzlauer Berg or Charlottenburg, preferably Altbau) opening up in early autumn, please let me know. Any other moving or Berlin apartment tips are also much appreciated!<br />
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Here is a look at some of neighborhood exploration this last trip:<br />
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<b>Friedrichshain</b><br />
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<b>Prenzlauer Berg</b><br />
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<b>Prenzlauer Berg, suburban edition</b><br />
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<b>Mitte</b><br />
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Please forgive my decreased blogging lately. In addition to the apartment search, I have also been working furiously on my new blog (which I hope to launch next month) and massively purging and organizing our way-to-many belongings in preparation to downsize - not to mention the <a href="http://instagram.com/p/aLgB_FFpJp/">new furniture project</a> I picked up on the corner the other day.<br />
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More good stuff to come, I promise!<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-16772583987915570492013-05-31T17:21:00.000+02:002013-06-01T10:34:43.250+02:00The Hive European Bloggers Conference<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Last weekend was filled with some intense double-duty in Berlin: me attending The Hive European bloggers conference and both of us doing some serious neighborhood scouting and apartment hunting for our move. It was a bit much to cram into five days, but somehow we managed - and managed to have a great time in the process.<br />
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Since I had not been to a 'professional' event in some time, I was just eager to get out there and feel, well, professional. With a sense of purpose - not to mention some awesome free business cards from <a href="http://uk.moo.com/">MOO </a>- I left The Hive with a bit of a fire lit beneath my ass, which is just what one needs when feeling a little alone and afloat amidst about a million other digital personas vying for blog readers' attention. Speaking of so many bloggers, what I wouldn't have given for a list of attendees <i>before</i> the conference to study who would be there and who best for me to connect with. There were so many people, it was impossible to chat with everyone.<br />
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In addition to getting a serious butt workout (sessions were either on the first or fourth floor - <i>no elevator</i>) and some really great inspiration, I also left with some great technical tips and tricks, particularly on <a href="http://de.slideshare.net/YvonneDewerne/deb-22137253">growing your community</a> from Deborah Beau of <a href="http://kickcanandconkers.blogspot.de/">Kickcan & Conkers</a> and SEO from Georg Seebode of Android/ <a href="http://www.linquisite.com/">Linquisite</a> / <a href="http://digitalcosmonaut.com/">Digital Cosmonaut</a>. Coming from the world of marketing and communications, I found much of the content to be a bit of a review, but it never hurts to brush up - especially after being out of the game for so many years!<br />
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Perhaps the best part of the conference was connecting with other bloggers, both new and those I already knew. After years of chatting online with fellow American expats Mandi of <a href="http://noapathyallowed.com/">No Apathy Allowed</a> and Tiffany from <a href="http://www.noordinaryhomestead.com/">No Ordinary Homestead</a>, we finally got to meet face-to-face. I also had the pleasure of meeting the very sweet Melanie of <a href="http://dejligedays.blogspot.de/">Dejlige Days</a> and the not-too-far-away Sharon of <a href="http://www.travelmeetsfood.com/blog">Travel Meets Food</a>, not to mention the 'what a small world' moment of meeting Nina (of the soon-to-be <a href="http://pinspiration.de/">Pinspiration</a> blog), a Berliner who is originally from Wiesbaden, and many other great bloggers. It was so great to meet everyone I did - and I hope I get the chance to cook for Natali of <a href="http://kochenkunstundketchup.de/">Kochen, Kunst & Ketchup</a> as soon as we move to Berlin!<br />
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<i>Tina Fussell of <a href="http://travelingmama.net/">Flying House</a> // Katja Hentschel of <a href="http://www.travelettes.net/">Travelettes</a></i></div>
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<i>Deborah Beau of <a href="http://kickcanandconkers.blogspot.de/">Kickcan & Conkers</a></i></div>
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<i>More from Tina's presentation</i></div>
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A somewhat narcissistic highlight was when I discovered that Luisa Weiss of fabulous food blog <a href="http://www.thewednesdaychef.com/">The Wednesday Chef</a> had anonymously <a href="http://instagram.com/p/ZxKi0jPtNc/">Instagrammed</a> a photo of what I was wearing on day two of the conference. It was kind of like when major blogger <a href="http://www.natthefatrat.com/">Nat the Fat Rat</a> commented on my food Instagrams that she wanted me to come to New York and teach her to cook. I got all humbled and giddy, like the nerdy girl who gets asked to prom by the captain of the football team. But seriously - what an ego boost! (though I am still kicking myself for missing <a href="http://de.slideshare.net/YvonneDewerne/organizing-your-online-life">Luisa's presentation</a> to wait for Pantone's contest winners that were never announced)<br />
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Going home with a seriously generous goodie bag and a prize in the <a href="http://www.thehive-conference.com/2013/04/do-you-feel-emerald-today-pantone-give.html">Pantone contest</a> for <a href="http://americaninwiesbaden.blogspot.de/2013/04/pantone-emerald-springs-splendor.html">my blog entry</a> wasn't too shabby either. I admit, it was a bit of a let-down to be given my prize as more of an afterthought, after the conference had ended, rather than getting any of the recognition outlined in the giveaway. But hey, free chair.<br />
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All in all, The Hive was a good experience and I left ready to dive into about a million things for my blog - both for my current blog and as I set to work on my new one. After some more rest first, please. <i>Phew!</i><br />
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<i>Presentation from Desiree of <a href="http://vosgesparis.blogspot.nl/">Vosgesparis</a></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>All images are mine, except the Instagram from <a href="http://instagram.com/wednesdaychef">The Wednesday Chef</a></i></span></div>
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shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-21091204165308289612013-05-29T16:41:00.000+02:002013-05-29T16:42:26.165+02:00Arrested Development & A Berlin hangover*<a href="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/arresteddevelopment_michael_ostrich_animated_wengles_tumblr_zps29fbc65d.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://i874.photobucket.com/albums/ab305/ShoegirlinDE/An%20American%20in%20Wiesbaden/arresteddevelopment_michael_ostrich_animated_wengles_tumblr_zps29fbc65d.gif" /></a>
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Utterly exhausted from apartment hunting and attending The Hive European bloggers conference in Berlin this last week, I'm spending the next few days recuperating from information overload - and <a href="http://instagram.com/p/Z48UkQlpJ5/">a horrendous drive home</a>. Before I dive into all the blog work I have assigned myself, or start a new apartment search in another neighborhood (hint: #welovecharlottenburg ), or sift through my hundreds of photos, I am looking forward to indulging in some much-needed sleep and as many new Arrested Development episodes as I can watch before I can't keep my eyes open any longer. Anyone else as excited as I am that they finally answered our plea for more AD goodness? This party is going to be off the hook!<br />
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<i>*While a hangover might have a negative connotation, I always return from Berlin rejuvinated and beyond excited about our move, albeit usually exhausted and overwhelmed with all the possibilities. I am still counting the days until we call this great city home...</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>image via <a href="http://wengles.tumblr.com/">Huge Ego, Sorry.</a></i></span><br />
<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-31103423901558533962013-05-27T10:55:00.000+02:002013-05-27T11:12:41.866+02:00Music Monday: Wild Belle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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I have been obsessed with <a href="http://www.wildbelle.com/us/">Wild Belle</a> since I first heard of this brother and sister duo after their breakout debut at 2012 SXSW. There's just something about that jazzy-reggae sound, not to mention singer Natalie Bergman's unique vocals, that I can't get enough of. Thankfully, I no longer have to have the same three songs on repeat - I can listen to their <a href="http://www.myplaydirect.com/wild-belle?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=wildbelle.com&utm_content=wild%20belle%20d2c%20preorder%20promote&utm_campaign=wild%20belle%20d2c%20preorder%20promote&cid=lg:zv4">whole album</a>! This song, Shine, is one of my favorites.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-45762198897851476242013-05-24T11:55:00.000+02:002013-05-24T11:55:09.039+02:00Apartment Wishlist: A good first impression<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The old adage is:<i> it's what's on the inside that counts</i>, but I think there's something to be said for a lovely exterior. I'm sure a big part of my desire to live in a pretty building is the fact that our current apartment has the crappiest, <a href="http://americaninwiesbaden.blogspot.de/2012/08/diatribe-on-not-having-apartment.html">most run-down facade</a> on the block, if not the whole neighborhood. Sure, it's nice on the inside, partly due to the three-meter-high ceilings and ornate mouldings, but it's a bit of a downer every time we walk up to it - especially when there are such amazing architectural details all around us.<br />
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We're kicking off this Berlin trip with our very first apartment viewing this afternoon and I'm rather excited about it. The possibilities for old period details or colorful modern exteriors are abundant. Here's hoping Berlin can give us that first impression we have been pining for in the new place we call home!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The first photo is from a listing on <a href="http://immobilienscout24.de/">immobilienscout24.de</a>, the rest of the photos are mine</i></span><br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-5294388014997236962013-05-23T10:39:00.000+02:002013-05-23T10:39:54.489+02:00Back to Berlin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We are hitting the road today, heading back to Berlin for some more apartment scouting and for me to attend The Hive European Bloggers conference. Once again, Bailey is along for the ride, so I can only hope the weather is halfway decent and she can be outside most of the time (though <a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/Berlin+Germany+GMXX0007">it's not looking good</a>...). At the very least, I hope we hear back from a few of the apartments we want to see so that we can at least get the ball rolling with our hunt for a new home.<br />
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While we are of course headed back to some of our favorite Berlin eateries, the one thing we have not heard about or found is a good pizza place. If anyone has any recommendations, I would love to hear them!<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">image from <a href="http://www.stories.com/Accessories/All_accessories/Leather_Luggage_Tag/590769-576185.1">& Other Stories</a></span></i><br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-83684005779101391302013-05-21T14:43:00.000+02:002013-05-21T14:43:58.311+02:00The weekend / Gambling with the weather<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The threat of rain has been hanging over our heads for nearly a week. And not just rain, I'm talking about a little lightning cloud icon on the forecast every day of the week. Knowing this weekend would likely be the breaking point for the weather, we headed outdoors as soon as it looked like any bit of sunshine was peeking out to enjoy whatever we could before it hid its face again for who knows how long.<br />
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Saturday was a mostly glorious day with afternoon sun so brilliant, we decided to take a drive down to Eltville to stroll its picturesque streets, sit on the banks of the river and enjoy a glass of wine from one of the ubiquitous wine stands along the Rhine. We sat out so long, we both ended up a bit sunburned and a little lethargic, but it was so worth it.<br />
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Sunday was more an exercise in trying to beat the weather, running out for an short afternoon hike before the grey clouds that had been threatening for some time finally did unleash a downpour. Lucky for us, the rain not only stayed at bay, but blue sky even managed to make an appearance a time or two. It was the warm mugginess that promised the rain we knew was coming.<br />
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Not wanting to stray too far from home, should the weather apocalypse indeed show its face, we wound up in a new green space that once again, impressed me with its vastness and proximity to a regular neighborhood. Bailey went nuts for the tall grass and off-leash privileges, while we enjoyed the hushed calm before the storm. I just love getting lost in nature mere minutes from where we live, as it reminds me of the way my hometown used to be for several generations of my family before me. Now it is a crowded, overdeveloped and overpriced suburban mecca, where real estate prices trump any green space.<br />
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I am so thankful this was only my second snake sighting ever in Germany (and we spend <u>a lot</u> of time traipsing through nature over here). I've heard two recent accounts from California folks of rattlesnakes, one which ended in someone being bit. This tiny guy might have been poisonous for all I know, but at least I don't have to fear anything major here (goodbye, CA mountain lions and bears!) when we're out in the forest.<br />
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It was a good thing we got out when we did, as our holiday Monday looked like this...<br />
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Which meant cuddling up indoors with Scrabble and Game of Thrones. At least we can say we made the most of the weekend otherwise.<br />
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Hope you had an enjoyable weekend as well!<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-45150239682606953302013-05-17T13:17:00.000+02:002013-05-17T13:17:34.763+02:00Currently obsessed: Black & white graphic prints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Don't get me wrong, I am a color fanatic. When we first moved to Germany, I stuck out like a sore thumb in my bright California color, so visible amidst the sea of khaki/navy/black-clad Germans. Now, I happily rock my neon pink pieces and playfully patterned dresses because I love how color makes me feel more than I worry about being looked at as an outsider.<br />
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Even with all this color love, most especially after my many recent acquisitions in the neon family, I have found myself drawn to graphic black and whites. While they may not be technically colorful, these bold patterns stand up to even the most saturated tones and blindingly bright hues with the strong statement they make. It's just the pop of something new and fresh my bright wardrobe and colorful home needs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/women-s-sam-libby-kamila-thong-sandal-with-back-strap-black-lime/-/A-14411253#prodSlot=medium_1_50">sandals</a> / <a href="http://www.shop.finelittleday.com/kitchen-towels/birch-kitchen-towel-1">kitchen towels</a> / <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/organic-chevron-duvet-shams-g379/?pkey=cduvet-covers-collection&cm_src=duvet-covers-collection||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-">duvet cover</a> / <a href="http://www.shop.finelittleday.com/textiles/gran-black">pillow</a> / <a href="http://www.couchguitarstraps.com/the-limited-edition-byloos-native-american-print-camera-strap-p-181.html">camera strap</a> / <a href="http://www.jcpenney.com/dotcom/joe-fresh%25e2%2584%25a2-jacquard-shorts-/prod.jump?ppId=pp5002360179&catId=cat1002360017&deptId=cat1002360005&dimCombo=null&dimComboVal=null">shorts</a> / <a href="http://www.fossil.de/de_DE/shop/damen/kategorien/bekleidung//loretta_top-wc1463p.html?parent_category_rn=331120&departmentCategoryId=331097&beginIndex=0&pageSize=1000&pn=c&cm_vc=343587&imagePath=WC1463400">silk top</a> / <a href="http://shop.mango.com/DE/p0/mango/accessoires/modeschmuck/armbander/zweifarbige-armreifen/?id=83640041_39&n=1&s=accesorios&ie=0&m=&ts=1368717468105">striped bangles</a> / <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-women-s-knit-maxi-dress-assorted-colors/-/A-14417923#prodSlot=medium_1_36">maxi dress</a> / <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/101413346/zip-tote-triangle?ref=shop_home_active">triangle tote</a><br />
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shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-81645420657339784352013-05-15T12:53:00.001+02:002013-05-16T21:34:28.876+02:00Apartment Wishlist: To kitchen, or not to kitchen...?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is what people generally envision when thinking of what a kitchen might look like in their new apartment: cabinets, at least some counter space and somewhere to cook. To many, this might not be considered a 'luxury' kitchen, but to us renters in Germany, anything above and beyond an empty room is a luxury.<br />
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I'm not sure where the concept of the <i>Einbauküche</i>, or 'fitted kitchen', being entirely optional and downright rare for rented apartments came about, but it is the most ridiculous concept ever created (<i>note: this is not <a href="http://americaninwiesbaden.blogspot.de/2011/09/kitchen-renovation-part-i.html">the first</a>, nor will it be the last time I rant about this subject</i>). Renters are supposed to buy and install an entire kitchen - as in, cabinets, countertops, sink, appliances, the whole deal - each time they rent a new apartment. Because let's face it, how many kitchens are exactly the same layout and amount of space? Therefore, how likely is it that the kitchen you invest thousands of euros into is going to come along with you to your next place of residence? Exactly. For practical Germans, this is one of the few areas that they have left me completely stumped.<br />
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So as we delve into our Berlin apartment search, here's what we might expect to find in a 'kitchen'...<br />
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Even this 'unfitted' kitchen is pretty luxury in terms of space and designer accent tile. The average German kitchen tends to look something more like this:<br />
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Clinical-looking and boring. From what we've been told, Berlin apartments are now required to be outfitted with a stove and a sink, at the very least. But if this is what that is going to look like...
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Well, you see where I'm going with this. I think I'd rather start from scratch, buying the appliances and sink and counter space that work for my needs. But the idea of being able to make my kitchen whatever I want it to be is also financially daunting, especially as expensive as it is just to move in this country: hefty deposits, hefty rental agent fees, that truck that will get our belongings all the way across the country. Any decent-looking installed kitchen, even from budget-conscious Ikea, is going to require a significant chunk from our moving budget. So what to do? There is Ikea's standalone kitchen furniture, which could be easily be moved from apartment to apartment, but I admittedly had a bias against it for not being 'serious' enough... that is, until I saw what Anna over at <a href="http://www.doorsixteen.com/2013/03/12/the-kitchen-shelving-is-up-yayyyy/">Door Sixteen</a> did in her house in New York:<br />
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Uh, stunning, right? A far cry from the janky, 20-something's studio I envisioned those Ikea pieces belonging in. Not to mention <a href="http://www.doorsixteen.com/2013/01/28/the-kitchen-has-been-painted/">those stools</a> and <a href="http://www.doorsixteen.com/2013/02/08/please-meet-my-kitchen-work-table/">that salvaged table she refinished</a> and <a href="http://www.doorsixteen.com/2013/01/02/kitchen-tiling-madness/">amazing tile walls</a> she did BY HERSELF. Okay, I think her significant other probably helped, but still (<i>I am not worthy!</i>). Seriously though, she made pieces that many people might not even consider for their rented apartment, let alone their <i>home</i>, look seriously stylish. I am already leaning towards one of those empty rooms for a kitchen so I can create my own version of this hip space.<br />
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The real downside here is that we already had to buy a stove/cooktop and dishwasher when the ancient ones <strike>left behind</strike> we bought from the previous tenants (hey, they were already installed and we were moving halfway around the world - seemed like a good idea at the time...) quit working properly soon after we moved in. So a portable kitchen such as this would mean ditching them - or at least trying to sell them to the next tenants of our current apartment - and buying new again. Save on the cabinets, spend on the appliances. <i>*sigh...*</i> So much to consider...<br />
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It's almost enough just to raise the white flag and declare '<i>Einbauküche</i> only'! We could luck out with something as decent as one of these:<br />
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And then that's one less thing to stress about for our move. Frankly, anything is better than the decades-old Ikea kitchen we have now, complete with grid design in the cabinet glass and mold growing rampant in the wood counter tops. I guess we shall see what apartments we find and which landlords deem us, and our sub-par German, worthy of renting a highly covetable Berlin apartment to...</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">All images, except the one from <a href="http://www.doorsixteen.com/">Anna of Door Sixteen</a>, are from Berlin apartment listings on <a href="http://null-provision.de/">null-provision.de</a> and <a href="http://immobilienscout24.de/">immobilienscout24.de</a></span></i><br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-7834692568492285392013-05-10T15:26:00.000+02:002013-05-10T15:26:11.262+02:00My favorite cookie recipe: Mrs Fields Krispies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a confession to make: cookies are not my favorite thing. For the most part, I could take them or leave them. If I'm going to have something sweet, I would much rather have some amazing ice cream or a moist cupcake or some of my favorite candies. There's something about the often dry, overly-sweet, 'blah' texture of a cookie that just doesn't do it for me. That is, except for these gems which I discovered in a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mrs-Fields-Cookie-Book-Recipes/dp/0809467151/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368191981&sr=8-1&keywords=mrs+fields+cookie+recipe+book">Mrs. Fields recipe book</a> circa 1994.<br />
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Krispies are the perfect marriage of sweet and salty, crunchy but chewy. I know most people are very particular about their cookies - nuts, no nuts, milk chocolate, dark chocolate - so I'm sure these aren't for everyone. But for me, these are the cat's pajamas, the cream of the crop and the cookie I would request if it was the last one I ever got to eat.<br />
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Hope you enjoy them as much as I do!<br />
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<span style="color: #666666;">Mrs. Fields Krispies</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666;">2 cups all-purpose flour (I use German 405)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">1/4 tsp salt</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">1/2 tsp baking soda</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">1/2 cup dark brown sugar, </span><span style="color: #666666;">packed</span><span style="color: #666666;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">1/2 cup white sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">3/4 cup salted butter, softened (I use 3/4 of a standard European butter and add a pinch of salt)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">1 large egg</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">2 tsp pure vanilla extract (no substitutions)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">1 cup Rice Krispies cereal</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">1-1/2 cups (8oz/227g) crispy rice chocolate bar, coarsely chopped (see below for my recommendation when you can't get your hands on a Nestlé Crunch bar)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666;">Preheat oven to 300°F/150°C. In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt and soda. Mix well with a wire whisk and set aside. In a large bowl, blend sugars with an electric mixer at medium speed. Add butter and mix to form a grainy paste. Scrape down sides of bowl, then add egg and vanilla. Beat at medium speed until light and fluffy. Add flour mixture, Rice Krispies and chocolate chunks, blend at low speed until just combined (do not overmix). Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased cookie sheets, two inches/ centimeters apart. Bake for 22-24 minutes. Immediately transfer cookies with a spatula to a cool, flat surface. </span><br />
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Here in Europe, Nestlé Crunch bars are nearly impossible to come by and every rice-related chocolate bar in Europe seems to favor the puffed variety, rather than the good crunch of crisped rice. This is well and good for snacking, but puffed rice just makes these cookies fall flat. I was at a loss until I found these babies: Rapunzel's Crispy chocolate bars, which I buy at Alnatura. If you happen to find another great substitution for this chocolate, I would love to hear about it.<br />
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And also, these cookies are best enjoyed thoroughly cooled for that perfect crunch!<br />
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<br />shoegirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900008048011150088noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3654215046011589231.post-16730257865180622872013-05-07T13:49:00.000+02:002013-05-15T12:54:35.892+02:00The weekend / A wine festival, a fountain that flows Sekt & fancy a new camera<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of my favorite things about living here is how we can have no big plans in the coming week, only to find our weekend filled with the abundant festivals and celebrations so common this time of year. After our errands on Saturday, we headed to the Mainzer Weinetage just about the same time the rain clouds cleared and the sun came out. As much as I love our fests in Wiesbaden, there is just something so fantastic about the stretch of riverside on which Mainz holds its festivals.<br />
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I also love that Mainz is such a different crowd. Sure, there are some older, more posh wine connoisseurs, I'm sure, but the younger, more laid-back vibe is a nice change. The wineries were being very generous with their pours and there were some hipper, downright enjoyable music performers, most notably this great little instrumental quartet whose music transported you to <i>Midnight in Paris</i>. Of course, there were also the ubiquitous groups of bachelor and bachelorette parties, which in Germany mean coordinated dressing up, embarrassment of the bride/groom and selling of some kind of food or trinkets to the crowd. These kinds of fests make me a little sad about all we will be leaving behind when we move, but I know Berlin holds so many new and different things, we won't be disappointed. <br />
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While Saturday was a bit of a last minute outing, Sunday's event was something we had been looking forward to since we had received an invitation to the celebration: our favorite maker of Sekt, Schloss Wachenheim, was having a party for its 125th anniversary. Even though they have been sold out of our very favorite Sekt - Muskateller Pfalz - for a number of months, the drive down through this beautiful wine region and wandering around the quaint town of Wachenheim is always worth it. The best part: for this celebration, Schloss Wachenheim was running Sekt through the fountain in its courtyard and for just 125 cents, you could fill your glass from it as often as you liked. We quickly decided that this should be a regular thing, not just at wineries, but really in any fountain. I mean, wouldn't that just make the world a better place? </div>
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Another great thing to happen this weekend - we finally got our dSLR! Due some great prices and attractive new financing offers (meaning we can afford a camera <i>and</i> our move to Berlin), we splurged for the Nikon d5100, rather than the entry-level d300 we were considering. This also means there is a steep learning curve for me, so bear with me while I learn. Even without a clue as to what we were doing with the thing, the photos from Sunday turned out markedly better than Saturday's, which were taken just with our little point-and-shoot. And check out that self-photo action, thanks to the d5100's flip screen! I'm really excited to learn more, play more and bring better photos to my blog. Any beginners tips are most welcome!</div>
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