Well, here I am, about a week away from leaving for Germany. I cannot believe it!
I've been buying and organizing and making lists--checking all of them twice. I haven't really started packing yet. I'm hopping on that train tomorrow. It's hard to believe that I'll be living in another country for 5 whole months. I'm so utterly excited about it. Of course, I'm scared to death at the same time. I've never been away from my friends and family for that long. Ever. I know I can handle it.. and at times when I can't, I have God to lean on, as well as several other people who will know how I feel.
I hope to update my blog quite often while I'm over there. I'm sure none of the posts will be super long; I'll be focused more on posting pictures. I promise to be better at posting than I have been while IN the U.S. Oh, and by the way, German language is pretty dang hard. I hope I can find my 2 semesters of German class buried deep in my brain. Maybe they'll just surface once I'm there? Hope so. Anyways, off to clean my room and resurface 23 years of memories. I'm sure that'll make my leaving the country SO much easier (not).
German word:
grün--green (my favorite color!)
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Retail Detail
So, as I have not much interesting going on in my life at the moment, I thought I'd write about a few pointers, or suggestions, to remember when you're going shopping in a retail store. I've always tried to be somewhat conscious of the workers at stores, but being on the other side has shown me a thing or two. These are merely suggestions that would make a retail worker's day!
1. When trying on clothes, it would be so nice of you to hang up everything that you tried on (that is, if it came on a hanger) before leaving the fitting room--unless you plan on buying the item.
2. If you're looking at a stack of clothes that has recently been folded, it'd be real nice if you tried not to mess up the whole stack when you're looking for your size. I know that's not always possible; I'm just asking to make sure it doesn't look like a hurricane hit that pretty stack of clothes.
3. If you go into a store and have no intentions on buying anything, please don't try on 50 different items. It's such a tease!
4. If you see a worker helping out a customer, please don't interrupt him/her unless it's a last resort--especiallly when they seem overloaded, and it's a useless question such as asking about where another store is located.
5. If you see shirts folded in a unique way and you think you can refold it that way, be my guest. If not, don't fold it some obviously incorrect way and walk away, smirking. It's just going to look silly and have to be completely refolded anyway. You'll probably get the evil eye. I mean, did it actually look like the rest of the stack?
6. If you're trying to be one of those amazingly kind people who puts up their stuff after trying it on, it'd be even better if you put your size in the correct spot. If not, you can leave it to the fitting room attendant to put up, or leave it hanging in the area where the "clothes that didn't work" are located.
7. If someone is in the middle of a transaction at the register, please don't ask them to go do something. They can't just leave the register in the middle of things.
8. When you're asked who was helping you, do you best to name ANYONE who did. If you're asked this, commission is might be involved. If not commission, then the store is trying to keep up with how each associate is doing in sales. Either way, it's important. It's quite a pet peeve when someone helps a customer and then the customer says, "Oh, I helped myself." Yeah, I'm sure you magically opened up the jewelry case and got that necklace, woman.
9. Don't leave empty coffee cups or trash on a shelf in the store. You know good and well that the store is not a trash can.
10. If you knock something over, pretty please pick it up. Don't let it collect dust and footprints on the floor.
11. Don't be afraid to ask an associate for help. It's actually pretty fun when you can answer people's questions! And when you don't like something that was picked out, it's ok to say no. It helps him/her figure out what you're looking for!
12. Lastly, when you're really nice to the workers, it makes them want to help you even more. People who are rude might seem to get their way, but it puts everyone in a bad mood. Being cheerful makes things move along quicker, and everyone is better for it!
That's all I got for now. If I think of more, I'll add 'em.
German phrase:
Wie alt bist du?--How old are you?
1. When trying on clothes, it would be so nice of you to hang up everything that you tried on (that is, if it came on a hanger) before leaving the fitting room--unless you plan on buying the item.
2. If you're looking at a stack of clothes that has recently been folded, it'd be real nice if you tried not to mess up the whole stack when you're looking for your size. I know that's not always possible; I'm just asking to make sure it doesn't look like a hurricane hit that pretty stack of clothes.
3. If you go into a store and have no intentions on buying anything, please don't try on 50 different items. It's such a tease!
4. If you see a worker helping out a customer, please don't interrupt him/her unless it's a last resort--especiallly when they seem overloaded, and it's a useless question such as asking about where another store is located.
5. If you see shirts folded in a unique way and you think you can refold it that way, be my guest. If not, don't fold it some obviously incorrect way and walk away, smirking. It's just going to look silly and have to be completely refolded anyway. You'll probably get the evil eye. I mean, did it actually look like the rest of the stack?
6. If you're trying to be one of those amazingly kind people who puts up their stuff after trying it on, it'd be even better if you put your size in the correct spot. If not, you can leave it to the fitting room attendant to put up, or leave it hanging in the area where the "clothes that didn't work" are located.
7. If someone is in the middle of a transaction at the register, please don't ask them to go do something. They can't just leave the register in the middle of things.
8. When you're asked who was helping you, do you best to name ANYONE who did. If you're asked this, commission is might be involved. If not commission, then the store is trying to keep up with how each associate is doing in sales. Either way, it's important. It's quite a pet peeve when someone helps a customer and then the customer says, "Oh, I helped myself." Yeah, I'm sure you magically opened up the jewelry case and got that necklace, woman.
9. Don't leave empty coffee cups or trash on a shelf in the store. You know good and well that the store is not a trash can.
10. If you knock something over, pretty please pick it up. Don't let it collect dust and footprints on the floor.
11. Don't be afraid to ask an associate for help. It's actually pretty fun when you can answer people's questions! And when you don't like something that was picked out, it's ok to say no. It helps him/her figure out what you're looking for!
12. Lastly, when you're really nice to the workers, it makes them want to help you even more. People who are rude might seem to get their way, but it puts everyone in a bad mood. Being cheerful makes things move along quicker, and everyone is better for it!
That's all I got for now. If I think of more, I'll add 'em.
German phrase:
Wie alt bist du?--How old are you?
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Back in the game
Wow, was my last post really at the end of November? I'm embarrassed. I am nothing short of a slacker. My apologies to all you "avid readers" a.k.a. "bored-out-of-your-mind-begging-for-something-to-do-at-work readers." You know who you are :) I'm glad to be back on the blog field. My fingers are a little rusty, but I doubt that will make much of a difference. My first post back will be to talk about the wonderful event that took place this weekend: My Kage's beautiful wedding. It's still hard to believe she's already had it. I mean, she's no longer just Katie Henry. She's Katie Zumo! Ah! All I have to say is... welcome to the end of the alphabet, Katie bug!
Well, for those of you who didn't go, you missed out on much. The church was absolutely gorgeous-- and the ceremony gave you plenty of time to admire it. The rehearsal began at 5:30 on Friday, but of course I arrived late, along with Harper Ferg a few minutes behind me. BUT it being Katie's wedding, we didn't stick out like a sore thumb at all. The rehearsal dinner was so laid back. I absolutely loved it. The only light in the whole room was candle light. So many people gave toasts to Luke, to Katie.. and to Katie AND Luke. It was truly an honor to hear the love each of them has given and received from all their friends and family.
The reception was my favorite part because I was finally able to see so many people that I hadn't seen in awhile, and even take a most obvious picture with a few of them. I mean, seriously, we blocked one of the walkways so that we could all get in a picture together. I love my life. It was worth it to all get together... I mean, who knew so many people from Heritage class of '03 were gonna make it to the big easy?? I think maybe a fourth of the class was there? (even if that's only out of about 50 people....)
Katie was such a beautiful bride, as was expected. She was all smiles as the Priest announced, for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Luke Zumo! That's yet another close friend who I've watch make one of the happiest decisions of her life. Well, that's all I need to write about this. Congrats my Kage!
German word:
lau--lukewarm.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Two Weeks Notice
Well, I haven't been writing much in here because I feel like there's not much to update anyone. I doubt anyone really wants to here things like: woke up at 10 am, watched a few TV shows, got gas, met with my friends to cook dinner. That's pretty much the basis of my mundane life. I'm not complaining in the least, just explaining. I did have an exciting moment today, though. I finally turned in my 2 weeks notice J.Crew (a.k.a. the crew). Well, it's not exciting that I won't have anymore sweet deals, but it DOES mean that it's getting closer and closer to time for my German adventure.
My friend Laur and I got to chatting tonight (for some 3 or so hours, go figure), and I realized how much of a change I've seen in her. She has grown so much in so many ways over the course of our friendship, as well all do, but most obviously I've seen it spiritually in her these past few months. Our conversations often times drift into very humbling and inspiring conversations over points in theology. I just want to write a quick note to encourage her as she encourages me!
Laur (or Springer--whatever you prefer), thanks for being there for me and listening when I've needed it. I hope I haven't embarrassed you :) *The picture is from a day we got to Disney, the happiest place on earth.*
Well, I think I've covered any important highlights in my life at the moment. Good night to all!
German word:
Was sagst du?--What are you saying?
My friend Laur and I got to chatting tonight (for some 3 or so hours, go figure), and I realized how much of a change I've seen in her. She has grown so much in so many ways over the course of our friendship, as well all do, but most obviously I've seen it spiritually in her these past few months. Our conversations often times drift into very humbling and inspiring conversations over points in theology. I just want to write a quick note to encourage her as she encourages me!
Laur (or Springer--whatever you prefer), thanks for being there for me and listening when I've needed it. I hope I haven't embarrassed you :) *The picture is from a day we got to Disney, the happiest place on earth.*Well, I think I've covered any important highlights in my life at the moment. Good night to all!
German word:
Was sagst du?--What are you saying?
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Whatcha Got Cookin?
Tip of the Day (oh, my name is so pun-ny):
When searching for a new recipe, go to AllRecipes.com. I discovered how useful that website is. Users rate and comment on recipes, and let you know how the food really tastes, sometimes including ways to improve the awful to almost perfect. Cooking has never been a strength of mine, and as I don't like receiving poor results in anything in life, I've sought out teaching myself how to cook. Needless to say, it's a very slow process :) I love receiving pointers and new recipes if you have any!
Click here if you want a great gingerbread cookie recipe. I have somewhat of a sweet tooth..and if I'm not careful, it'll be a sweet cavity.
Happy Week before Thanksgiving. The Twilight movie comes out this coming weekend for anyone who loves Edward Cullen!
German Word:
kochen--to cook
When searching for a new recipe, go to AllRecipes.com. I discovered how useful that website is. Users rate and comment on recipes, and let you know how the food really tastes, sometimes including ways to improve the awful to almost perfect. Cooking has never been a strength of mine, and as I don't like receiving poor results in anything in life, I've sought out teaching myself how to cook. Needless to say, it's a very slow process :) I love receiving pointers and new recipes if you have any!
Click here if you want a great gingerbread cookie recipe. I have somewhat of a sweet tooth..and if I'm not careful, it'll be a sweet cavity.
Happy Week before Thanksgiving. The Twilight movie comes out this coming weekend for anyone who loves Edward Cullen!
German Word:
kochen--to cook
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
This Nation
Well, I'm nervous about our new Presidential Elect. There, I said it. I didn't vote for him. I'm not ashamed. But, what comforts me to know is that God is still in control, no matter what human takes ahold of this nation. All things are done according to His purpose. It's been a week since the election, and people's nerves are calming down, including mine. I just hope all my suspicions are proven wrong (although I have to admit that deep down, I kinda hope they're right).
On a more positive note, Todd and Rebecca just returned from their honeymoon, two days late. One disappearing airplane, a cheap hotel with a sewage view, and an extra stay overnight in Charlotte later, that is. They were so happy to be home. We all are glad to have the Smiths back home too!
Happy November everyone... and don't worry, I don't think it's too early to listen to Christmas music!!
German Word:
das Handy--cell phone
On a more positive note, Todd and Rebecca just returned from their honeymoon, two days late. One disappearing airplane, a cheap hotel with a sewage view, and an extra stay overnight in Charlotte later, that is. They were so happy to be home. We all are glad to have the Smiths back home too!
Happy November everyone... and don't worry, I don't think it's too early to listen to Christmas music!!
German Word:
das Handy--cell phone
Friday, November 7, 2008
The New Smith
Disclaimer: Lots of pictures = the illusion of a long post. sorry!
So this weekend's wedding--SUCCESS! amazing. phenomenal. superb. loverly. It was one of THE best weddings I've been to! Probably most of that had to do with the fact that I knew 80% of the people at the wedding/reception, and was related to another 7%. There were people there I hadn't seen in awhile, and then there were people who I hadn't seen in around oooh, 6 years, like Chuck Gatton! I was so excited to see my old swim coach!
He looks exactly the same. It was so great to get to talk with him, if only for a little while. I cannot explain how great everything went. I am so happy for my big bro! And now the smith kids' tally has moved up to 5, and I finally have an "older sister"! yahoo!To give a few details, the luncheon was great--some FINE chicken salad and meeting of some fellow bridesmaids.
The rehearsal dinner was great, bringing a few tears to my eyes and preventing me from making a speech (I'm a chicken; no dry eyes, no talk). My brother knows what I would have said, though. That's what is important. Oh, and did I mention that the food there was great? My Aunt Judy made some homemade german (Ja Ja!) chocolate cake that I most willingly devoured. The wedding ceremony was a bit longer than I expected, and a lot different since it was at Rebecca's parents church and they are Episcopal. So it was not the 25 minute wedding that I'm used to, but it did have some good singing.
Then there was the reception. SO GREAT. After talking my voice box empty and listening my ear off, I learned I missed the bouquet toss (I still haven't figured out how or why no one came to get me??? not that I would try to catch that sucker..) along with the garter toss. BUT then the fun began. Corky pulled mom on the dance floor, and after finishing, let my dad take over. I think that's probably the first time I've seen my parents dance together
& just so happened to capture the most amazing picture of them smiling so big! --> After 70% of the reception attendants left, the dancing was the best. The band played some sweet late 80s/early 90s music. In other words, the perfect genre. Caitlyn, Corky, Todd, and I started breaking it down once Thriller hit, but what got us truly in tune with the music was Bon Jovi-Livin' on a prayer. I wish I had it one video. I've never been out of breath from basically lip syncing a song, but boy did I break a sweat on that one! I love my family! 
And my guitar hero skills came out when Sweet Child of Mine came on.. I knew that guitar part by heart.Anyways, Todd and Rebecca ran out through a line of cherished family and friends, sparkling the way to the car. It was a beautiful sight. They rode off in a Bentley and flew out for Antigua Sunday! I hope everyone who came had so much fun. I loved seeing faces long forgotten and can't wait to have more memories that equate with this weekend.
German word:
Neu--New
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