tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49202497429718583012011-07-08T10:17:57.917+02:00In which I record the details of my life in Cologne, Germany.chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.comBlogger931100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-75064432791307112532010-06-27T08:34:00.004+02:002010-06-27T09:05:30.115+02:00

For weeks I was so sure the US was going to end up playing Germany in this afternoon's game.  After all, who wouldn't have picked England to finish first in the group?  In case of the matchup that never came and the eventual knockout blow by Germany, I had done some research.  I found the perfect quote that I was going to use.  Instead, the US finished first in the group and played against the

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-30202105070694719802010-06-26T12:31:00.004+02:002010-06-26T12:31:00.249+02:00

National fußball hero Franz Beckenbauer won't let up.  He's been attacking the English squad from the start of the tournament.  In light of tomorrow's clash between Germany and England, he's really cranking it up.  Given the injury status of at least two of Germany's top players, I'd be at least a little worried if I were him.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-7478494707759441272010-06-25T20:29:00.001+02:002010-06-25T20:39:39.006+02:00

Wow is it getting crazy around here.  Between coordinating wedding plans and watching more football than I should be allowed, I'm nearly burned out.  You'll be happy to know we finally found a venue for the reception.  Thanks to our roommate, we'll be celebrating at a restaurant owned by her cousin.  To be honest, he made us a deal we couldn't refuse.  It's a cozy little place and we've never

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-59756716268154842502010-06-22T20:06:00.003+02:002010-06-23T09:11:51.544+02:00

Algeria vs USA I'm all with his strategy in the above link.  Attack from the get go and hope Algeria finds themselves too stretched out playing with three forwards.  But that's always easier said than done.  I don't know what else to say.  Win and they move on.  Lose and they're on their way back to the States.  I don't think most people predicted the situation Group C would be in by the

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-45717988400545500232010-06-21T13:43:00.003+02:002010-06-21T13:46:38.075+02:00

... except when it kicks off outside my bedroom window at 7:30 on a Sunday morning.  Yesterday morning we were treated to the lovely sound of a marching band opening the festivities for the local schützenverein's festival.  What is a schützenverein? Think the Loyal Order of Water Buffaloes complete with uniforms and funny traditional hats, but add some guns to the festivities.  Seriously, check

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-63249091865802329632010-06-19T09:03:00.013+02:002010-06-19T10:41:46.870+02:00

Huh... well, at least I got half the score right. 2-2.  It could have been worse.  It certainly looked like it at half time.  Then again, it should have been way better.  The US got it handed to them for the first 45 minutes, then stormed back in the second half to score three two goals and win tie the game.  It looked as if they had the go-ahead goal in the closing minutes of the game, but the

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-55584789152009624792010-06-17T19:45:00.003+02:002010-06-19T09:06:00.292+02:00

Slovenia vs USA First thing's first.  Who IS Slovenia? According to one writer, it looks like the US is facing their doppelganger.  One of their more dangerous players, striker Milevoje Novakovic, plays for FC Köln.  He was the captain of the team until he had some sort of spat with the new trainer last season.   According to the experts, Slovenia is a more defensive-oriented team,

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-46229534487392545472010-06-17T00:17:00.003+02:002010-06-17T19:56:52.634+02:00

...but the way US Goalkeeper Tim Howard is talking, it looks like we're in for a boxing match on Friday.  Enjoy some pre-game smack talk here.  More pre-game match-ups and a prediction posted here within the next day or so.  Normally I work on Friday afternoons until 3:30.  The US-Slovenia game kicks off at 4.  It is about an hour commute home with the train, a half hour by car.  (Although

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-81111687929607961972010-06-16T11:54:00.004+02:002010-06-16T23:15:37.465+02:00

Oh Bezirksrathaus, how I love thee.  From your freakish zombie-rising-from-the-ground sculpture outside,  to your unfinished waiting area with buzzing fluorescent lights (in the same state of disrepair since my first visit nearly a year ago, minus a water cooler), to your cheerful employees who are always willing to serve me er, eventually.  (I know they only ignore me waiting outside their

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-78304684204015085092010-06-14T11:11:00.002+02:002010-06-14T11:13:30.739+02:00

Don't panic.  What I mean is that we're still looking for a place to celebrate after the wedding.  Anyone have any tips or recommendations?  We've certainly found some interesting places to celebrate but we keep running into the same problem.  Our party is not going to be all that big.  We figure somewhere in the range of 35-40 people.  Every place we've seen so far is too big or too small. Most

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-37841080090639925012010-06-13T00:57:00.002+02:002010-06-13T01:01:42.120+02:00

Luck or skill?  I'll let you decide.   Either way, both England and the US escaped defeat and the group is still up for grabs.  Maybe Green makes that save the next 100 times.  This time he didn't.  In my opinion he didn't "give it away" as I'm sure most will suggest.  He just didn't save it.  Is it his fault?  The coach's fault for playing him?  It doesn't really matter at this point.  This is

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-6176736635026424172010-06-12T09:53:00.011+02:002010-06-12T13:08:57.868+02:00

The Daily Show With Jon StewartMon - Thurs 11p / 10c World Cup 2010: Into Africa - Two Teams, One Cup www.thedailyshow.com Daily Show Full EpisodesPolitical HumorTea Party USA vs England The Stars and Stripes vs the Three Lions The team that pantsed the other once in 1950 vs the team that has done it nearly every other occasion Personally, I don't think the US has anything to lose.  (

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-69699226552603228832010-06-09T17:44:00.014+02:002010-06-10T00:38:38.211+02:00

If you don't know what begins this weekend, I'm going to guess you're living in the US.  Way to go hometown news channel!  No doubt the rest of you realize that Friday is the beginning of the 2010 World Cup.  Whether you're a fan or not, you have no choice but to know this fact.  It is everywhere. I'm willing to give a pass to those of you in Chicago only until the Blackhawks wrap things up

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-1908721580967915562010-06-05T14:52:00.000+02:002010-06-05T14:52:46.742+02:00

Just a few more hours and we're on our way back to the airport.  These days are always tough even before the jet lag.  I've never been good at saying goodbye.  I doubt it will be any easier this time given the circumstances.  This was a really good visit.  We were fortunate enough to have exceptionally good weather this time.  Just about all of our goals were accomplished, although we only

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-43160465596934292262010-05-25T08:50:00.002+02:002010-05-25T08:55:15.515+02:00

For the most part, I've avoided following the news regularly while on vacation here in Chicago.  This was helped early on by accidentally catching a bit of the local news which ran not one, not two, but three separate reports on the local kid who has made it to the final round of American Idol.  Buried somewhere later in the news was a story about the whole school book fiasco.  This was then

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-72971079715773512522010-05-17T19:46:00.005+02:002010-05-17T20:03:50.725+02:00

Keep trying to write a full entry, but just can't seem to find the time.  Anyway, here's some photos to keep you busy for a little bit at least.  All of these were taken last Friday.  It was a beautiful day, nearly felt like summer.  We did a bit of sightseeing downtown before taking the 'L' up to the ballpark to take in a game.  Afterwards we made a tour of the city at night.  Thanks to my

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-72239541858979319882010-05-10T05:12:00.004+02:002010-05-10T05:30:51.993+02:00

They had yet another election here yesterday. The results seem a little more promising than last time. This was the local state election. Here's the results. We're off to Chicago in a few hours. We'll be there for the next month. We're up way too early, but I guess we're just too excited. Our roommate is coming along for part of the time. So I'll be looking forward to playing tour guide

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-25040992255829386022010-05-08T11:52:00.021+02:002010-05-08T14:00:11.801+02:00

I realize these audio files aren't working correctly.  So I'm using this post as a way to test new ways of playing these files. So if things look weird on this one, now you know. I am not sure what is causing these problems. I'm certainly no web pro. But I can't figure out if it is the Yahoo music player that isn't functioning or the file hosting site. I've used two different file hosting

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-1822694208744660602010-05-08T00:11:00.000+02:002010-05-08T00:11:14.138+02:00

I don't know about you, but I'll be getting married.  Yep, married. I'm sure I know the next question.  "You met her years ago online, then met for an amazing week in Paris. Later you even moved to Germany to be together.  So... how did you propose?"  Ah yes, there we were in Switzerland over the Easter holiday.  We had just spent nearly a week driving from Tuscany to the Swiss Alps where we

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-9276806344074150892010-05-03T10:24:00.010+02:002010-05-05T21:18:36.239+02:00

We had a great time at the game.  We sat up in the corner but still had a great view of the action.  The game ended in a 2-2 draw.  FC struck in the first ten minutes and for a little while it seemed like the rout might be on.  But it soon became apparent that FC was comfortable in their position.  They took their foot off the gas which allowed Freiburg to score once before the half and a second

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-71582842634243806922010-05-01T11:46:00.001+02:002010-05-01T11:58:26.503+02:00

Finally heading to my first FC Köln match this afternoon.  I'm pretty excited.  Not entirely sure what to expect.  The season is nearly over.  FC is safe from relagation, but today's opponents need to win in order to stay safe as well.  Hopefully FC doesn't roll over on this one.  But if the home team loses, well, I'm pretty used to that.  Here's today's matchup (scroll to the bottom) from the

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-44534291941376125432010-04-30T12:32:00.001+02:002010-04-30T12:38:23.460+02:00

Wow - didn't know about this site.  The link just provided should hopefully give you a better idea of the scale of the Dom.  For those of you who have not yet been to Cologne, go ahead and make your own tour of the city.  While Google is still battling legal problems here, a local company seems to be taking advantage of the opportunity.  I always like how nice and clean Streetview is.  It is

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-45708261839467973032010-04-29T11:33:00.004+02:002010-05-08T00:24:32.516+02:00

I'm going to do my best to keep pushing this guy on everyone.  When you have a good 55 minutes to sit back and listen, be sure to check this out: NPR First Listen: Josh Ritter, "So Runs the World Away." You can listen to the whole thing above via NPR until the album comes out next week. Enjoy! Updated May 7, 2010.  You can go to NPR's site above, or just use this:

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-950429210983691082010-04-27T10:24:00.002+02:002010-04-27T10:34:14.238+02:00

Spring is finally here. I'm reminded of that every morning when I look out our balcony.  The sunsets are even better.  Of course I can't be allowed to enjoy the scenery like just about everyone else.  Yes, with all beauty came some of the worst allergies I've ever had in my life.  I've always had fairly rotten allergies, but I've become accustomed to them.  Until now.  The past couple of weeks

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-2514892752120305722010-04-08T22:54:00.004+02:002010-04-08T23:10:44.801+02:00

Watching VfL Wolfsburg vs Fulham right now in a UEFA Europa League game.  Besides the underdog factor, I also find myself pulling for Fulham because they have a pair of Americans on the team.  (They had a few more in past years.)  Of course now that I have the opportunity to watch, neither are playing tonight.  With just a few minutes left, it looks like Fulham has this one and is moving on in

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-12069463088330717062010-04-04T13:00:00.002+02:002010-04-04T13:00:07.662+02:00

Change of Time - Josh Ritter I had a dream last night I dreamt that I was swimming And the stars up above Directionless and drifting Somewhere in the dark Were the sirens and the thunder And around me as I swam The drifters who’d gone under Time, love Time, love Time, love It’s only a change of time I had a dream last night And rusting far below me Battered hulls and broken hardships

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-26116882782949369792010-04-03T21:55:00.003+02:002010-04-04T08:04:55.502+02:00

Hello. Yes, I've been more than a little bit negligent. Those of you who may have followed regularly have probably given up by now. I wouldn't blame you. I nearly threw in the towel on this blog as well. There have been several times in which I wanted to post something but I never did. It was a long, cold winter here and I'm glad to say that it is over.  Between our opposing schedules, the

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-76604741954143756462009-12-22T11:26:00.000+01:002009-12-22T11:26:43.135+01:00

In the spirit of the season...

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-59444692275623138752009-12-20T21:46:00.002+01:002009-12-20T22:29:13.668+01:00

Umm, about what I was saying regarding the lack of snowfall yesterday... nevermind. Sure, it is not quite like what's going on in NYC today, but this was a hell of a lot more than I expected! Here's a shot just taken out of our bedroom window. Looks like Herr Doktor Braun just hit 141.62227 kph Went to see "Avatar" this evening at the Metropolis Theater.  I was pretty skeptical going in. 

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-78862528618292044822009-12-19T17:01:00.012+01:002009-12-21T12:29:12.896+01:00

So much for the mild temperatures around here.  It snowed yesterday.  And it got cold this week, too.  So cold in fact that we learned a few different ways to express that in German class.  Have your pencils and notebooks ready.  These might come in handy. Es ist... (It is...) sehr kalt (very cold) richtig kalt (really cold) eis kalt (ice cold) schweine kalt (pig cold) tierisch kalt (animal cold

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-67565974361262513172009-12-13T13:55:00.007+01:002009-12-13T16:04:13.822+01:00

Yesterday we drove to Trier, reputedly the oldest city in Germany.  That's a little over two hours drive almost directly south from us.  Well, it should be just over two hours.  Apparently the GPS system decided to give us the scenic route.  On our way south we encountered rain and snow and nearly ran out of gas.  We exited off the highway in pursuit of a gas station.  We hadn't seen one in

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-23577050033987011232009-12-11T03:53:00.004+01:002009-12-11T03:57:47.691+01:00

So I got a job. I think I hinted about this a little over a month ago.  I wanted to wait until things were more "official." I finally signed the contract last week so I guess it is as official as it can get.  It's not much to get excited about, only a little part time thing.  I'm teaching kids English.  That's right, teaching.  I know what you're thinking: "My God, he can hardly write

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-75651166466922676972009-12-09T01:06:00.001+01:002009-12-09T01:31:41.799+01:00

Over the last two days I've gotten to experience real, authentic German "customer service."  This species, though similar in looks, behaves entirely different from its American cousin.  See if you can spot the German retail employee. A: "Can I help you?" B: "I can't help you. Please stop bothering me, idiot." I know, I know.  It is difficult to tell them apart. They are both

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-27909572672458023822009-12-02T06:35:00.001+01:002009-12-02T09:07:07.703+01:00

(We're back in Cologne.) Truth be told, we've been back for a few days now.  We're still walking around like zombies.  It seems like each time it takes a little longer to get over the jet lag. (Note the time this entry is being written!) That was a much needed break.  We visited a lot of friends and family, I spoke very little German and we gorged ourselves on food we can't find over here. 

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-15200275103656983542009-11-26T08:28:00.033+01:002009-12-02T06:55:01.992+01:00

Thanksgiving.  As far as American holidays go, Thanksgiving is definitely my favorite.  Hang out with friends and family all day, eat til you explode, watch some football in between napping, and just enjoy yourself.  No big religious overtones, no gift giving.  The only real obligation is to wear loose fitting pants. I guess with all that gluttony in mind, it'd be difficult to write a

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-74193142471023521192009-11-13T06:51:00.001+01:002009-11-13T06:52:24.481+01:00

Friends and family in Chicago, we'll see you soon! For those of you here in Germany, see you in two weeks!

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-46710770835118839372009-11-11T11:11:00.039+01:002009-11-11T11:11:00.742+01:00

Wow, it has been a heckuva week.  Busy, busy, busy.  And before you know it, we'll be on our way to the States for a couple of weeks.  I can't promise many updates from there but we'll see. In the meantime today is a big day around here.  If you're here, you already know.  It is 11/11.  Karneval.  For those not in the know, the festivities begin today at 11:11am.  Get it? So what is Karneval? 

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-41267802618751471022009-11-09T07:33:00.002+01:002009-11-09T21:33:47.295+01:00

Today marks the 20th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.  1989.  I was just 13 years old.  There was no way I could possibly comprehend the impact of that event.  I only remember being told that this was "really important" as we watched the news together.  With the build up to the anniversary, I've been fascinated reading accounts about that day.  If you get a chance, take some time to

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-19554182177204107682009-11-07T13:35:00.003+01:002009-11-08T09:09:13.150+01:00

Earlier this week we received some sad news.  Our Great Uncle Marvin passed away on Monday.  He was the second of three sons born to Russian immigrants on the old west side of Chicago.  Children of musicians, it was only natural that all three boys would grow up to be musicians as well.  Norman, the eldest, played piano and accordion.  Marvin played guitar.  Anatol, the youngest of the three (and

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-29262072712509647052009-11-06T22:04:00.012+01:002009-11-06T22:20:11.127+01:00

It's awful undermining to the intellect, German is; you want to take it in small doses, or first you know your brains all run together, and you feel them flapping around in your head same as so much drawn butter. - Mark Twain, A Tramp Abroad I've come to the realization that I may have hit the wall in regards to my German language abilities.  I've been going to class five days a week nearly

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-34411670888295804902009-10-31T12:15:00.000+01:002009-11-06T22:07:42.299+01:00

This is some old video taken a little over a month ago. Towards the end of this summer a strange site was seen over the Dom. Why this never happened before, no one knows. For some reason, birds were attracted to the Dom this year for a massive feeding frenzy of moths never before seen at night. I would think the flood lights always attracted the bugs. Why the birds only just figured this out

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-49438412103053860632009-10-26T13:00:00.004+01:002009-10-26T13:03:14.017+01:00

I saw this yesterday in Severinsstrasse and couldn't keep from laughing like the 10 year old boy I can sometimes be.  Then again, because the place sells jeans, I'd like to think they are in on the joke. It also reminded me of another one I saw month's ago and forgot to post.  Consult your urban dictionary if you need help with this one. If I am invited to celebrate a private party there, I

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-76435046430358377122009-10-22T19:34:00.000+02:002009-10-22T19:34:01.852+02:00

Here's something you certainly don't see everyday. Granted such policies are in place in the US to some degree, but it is hard to ever imagine people ASKING to be taxed more.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-54768897943491722362009-10-22T13:17:00.017+02:002009-11-07T09:04:35.984+01:00

2+ That was the grade I received for my B1 level exam. Of course, at first I had no idea what that meant. After finishing the exam on Friday, I felt I did rather poorly. After hearing the grading scale was based on 1-4, I thought it must be similar to grade point averages in US universities. 2+? Well... okay, bad but not THAT bad. Then I noticed I had received a 1- for the listening

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-72110465131897007352009-10-07T13:00:00.003+02:002009-10-07T13:14:25.344+02:00

It looks like I'm going to be away from the blog for a little bit.  Next week (Oct 15th and 16th) is my first exam (Prüfung) in my German language course.  I was able to slip past one when I was moved one level higher.  Unfortunately, that means I don't have much of an idea what to expect.  And all this time I've been kicking myself because there are a whole lot of basics I never really came to

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-9538023063288977552009-10-03T15:48:00.002+02:002009-10-04T04:04:21.901+02:00

Its Reunification Day! And to be honest, here in Cologne you wouldn't even know it.  Then again, 4th of July lends itself much better to BBQs and outdoor parties than the 3rd of October. At least I have the socks to prove it! Photos to follow... eventually.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-72463317451218345052009-10-03T04:49:00.005+02:002009-10-04T04:00:29.338+02:00

Not a good week for Chicago sports or Chicago in general.  (I promise after this one to get back to the task at hand.) But it is nearly 3:30 in the morning and I can't sleep.  So please pardon any rambling I am about to do. I had been looking forward to October 2 for quite a while.  Yesterday the International Olympic Committee chose the city for the 2016 Olympics.  That Chicago even dared to

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-43082182645851095462009-09-30T19:52:00.005+02:002009-10-01T08:19:18.589+02:00

For Cubs, it's 'Wait 'Til Next Year: 101st edition' -- chicagotribune.com Posted using ShareThis One of the good things about leaving Chicago behind is to let things like the Cubs pass without much notice.  I've quietly watched their season slip by from thousands of miles away with a small MLB widget on the computer.  In true Cub fashion, they made a little surge mid-season only to fall flat

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-16221492585193830212009-09-29T13:37:00.005+02:002009-09-29T17:55:50.136+02:00

... same as the old boss.  Can I say "I guess they were fooled again"? That's it for the big election.  I know I'm still not in any position to comment on the politics here, but I'm going to try anyway. We watched the results come in on Sunday night.  It was all over in about two minutes.  Seriously.  Very anticlimactic.  CDU/CSU scored a victory with about 34% of the vote.  (That still

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-41436214076558466952009-09-27T11:12:00.000+02:002009-09-27T11:12:14.477+02:00

Art, culture, history, next month's 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall... none of that compares with what I just read about.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-20431504010994090012009-09-27T10:05:00.001+02:002009-09-27T10:05:46.648+02:00

Don't forget to vote today! 

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-41272186094654661862009-09-25T18:15:00.004+02:002009-09-25T18:25:45.573+02:00

There have been a lot of events around town that I've wanted to attend. Some I wound up skipping. Others (like the Musik Nacht) had details I missed and therefore couldn't attend. I did, however, make it to Robodonien last weekend. Courtesy of Google Translator: ROBODONIEN invites artists from across Europe to transform the art and Kulturfreistaat Odonien into a multimedia, interactive

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-52387926656610605992009-09-24T19:52:00.003+02:002009-09-24T20:10:05.766+02:00

More just-recorded video of the Leverkusen Mystery Building.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-2628718609669188282009-09-23T23:45:00.005+02:002009-09-23T23:57:01.463+02:00

Here's a few photos from two weeks ago when we attended the annual Pützchens Markt in Bonn. It is basically a gigantic carnival or state fair. Lots of food, lots of drinks, and lots of rides that'll make you lose those things. It is billed as a market so of course there's lots to buy as well.I still have nightmares about the giant Bavarian.Humongous Ferris WheelFortunately, we did the rides

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-41747838858182156502009-09-19T22:15:00.000+02:002009-09-29T17:16:30.425+02:00

Still haven't made it over to see what the heck the building is all about. Instead of running some test patterns across the screens, it looks like the whole building is changing colors. Last night the building was lit up in a solid white light. The sky was so bright, it was as if we lived near the airport. Tonight isn't so bad, all considering. Here's some fresh video taken about 20 minutes

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-55015229586018221952009-09-15T22:17:00.006+02:002009-09-15T22:39:55.386+02:00

I probably had a shot at securing that during the previous administration.  After seeing this video via a friend's Facebook post, I just wanted to crawl under a big blanket of embarrassment. I applaud political activism when there's actual thought behind it. But c'mon people, a little research goes a long way. Why do I always feel the need to apologize for such ignorance on behalf of my

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-61908987784193331292009-09-10T16:30:00.002+02:002009-11-07T09:05:12.600+01:00

For my second attempt at posting random audio from the city, I thought I'd record a bit of my trip back home this afternoon.  Our trip begins here at Rudolfplatz and ends here in Ebertplatz. It was mid-afternoon and it seemed to be a pretty quiet crowd.  I started recording when I got in the train.  I stopped recording after stepping off the train in Ebertplatz and watching the train take off.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-73112496656675653842009-09-07T21:38:00.006+02:002009-09-15T22:33:26.204+02:00

See how you fit in Germany's political landscape. Answer 38 questions and see your answers compared to various parties thanks to the Wahl-O-Mat. I can't vote (wählen), but it helped me make a little more sense out of the landscape. You can even choose between English and German.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-90428461478952235432009-09-07T15:47:00.013+02:002009-09-19T23:16:17.020+02:00

I can't be the only person to notice this. Then again we live in Merkenich, and that's quite a ways from central Cologne. Nevertheless, for about the last week I've been keeping an eye out on a development just across the river from us. Leverkusen is directly across the Rhine from us. I only know three things about Leverkusen: It is the home of Bayer AG, one of the world's largest

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-11701273870363120322009-09-05T18:08:00.006+02:002009-09-24T17:52:36.872+02:00

at Central Bureaucracy.By now I should be freaking out. I arrived with just a three month tourist visa. My return flight is set for the end of this month. With a little bit of good fortune and patience we no longer need to worry about that. Last week we got my visa extended. For a year.As I've written before, we've had a lot of trouble finding out just what conditions need to be met in order

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-54020437557483663572009-09-04T13:23:00.003+02:002009-09-25T18:00:19.917+02:00

A couple events coming up next weekend worthy of mentioning (I hope): First off is Robodonien, a weekend long Robotic Art exhibition. Yeah, I'm not too sure what that means either, but it looks interesting. The Kölner Musik Nacht is next Saturday evening. Its an all night music fest spread out in various locations all over the city. Lots of experimental music, jazz and classical choices.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-43140247906877419102009-08-31T07:01:00.005+02:002009-08-31T07:14:29.649+02:00

Woke up way too early today and couldn't get back to sleep, as evidenced by today's second post in as many hours. Anyway, I came across this thanks to the fine people at English Speaking Cologne. Not sure how many other Expats in the Cologne area might be reading this site, but I thought I'd pass along the info. Also, another random observation. FC Köln lost again, 3-1. That puts their record

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-2981850059023598772009-08-31T06:09:00.003+02:002009-08-31T07:01:09.903+02:00

Yesterday was phase one of elections here. On Sunday night we read an estimated 33% of the population voted in the local elections. The paper now states closer to 50%. This was for mayor and (as far as I could tell) two other local offices. Next month is the big national election. I'll be happy to see all the street ads going away. It is hard enough to learn to drive here when signs are

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-47055555424484522962009-08-24T17:53:00.009+02:002009-08-24T18:32:05.758+02:00

... or so to paraphrase Mark Twain.Sorry I've been gone for a bit. Enjoying summer as much as possible while still attending school everyday. I haven't run out of topics. I have a mess of ideas to put down here when I've got the time. In the meantime, here's a quick one I've been wanting to start up.I just finished up my second session of school at the Volkshochschule (VHS) today. It is

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-27034302227118660142009-08-09T11:47:00.013+02:002009-08-12T23:54:55.445+02:00

Back in Chicago the Cubs are fighting for first place. When I need a jolt of optimism I'll check out this blog. For the reality check I'll make sure to read the Tribune's Ask Paul. But it is getting harder and harder to follow their efforts from here. And being deprived of the distraction of sports has probably been a good thing.Nevertheless, this weekend marks the opening of the 2009

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-32047882492088705512009-08-07T23:35:00.000+02:002009-08-08T11:54:15.704+02:00

It is kind of like that 800 pound gorilla in the room. Unavoidable. Its image is everywhere. You can see it here. And here. And here: 24 hours a day on the webcam to the right! Spend any amount of time here and you can't help but notice the Cologne Cathedral (aka Kölner Dom, or just Dom). So it is about time we get this one out of the way.Here's some background information via the Wikipedia

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-49274349443899163312009-07-31T17:08:00.006+02:002009-07-31T17:22:04.429+02:00

Just thought you'd need to know information like this before you make your choices at the bar this weekend.And for any locals reading this, here's some entertainment options for the next several weekends.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-27434640722673077532009-07-30T17:01:00.014+02:002009-07-30T17:33:59.907+02:00

Thought I'd try my best to be the last one to comment on this topic. Well, to be honest, I wasn't so much trying to be the last one to comment on this. Instead I just came across this yesterday while wandering around. Anyway, nearly 10 days after the hoopla ladies and gentlemen, Der Schmitz-Saule:This can be found in the courtyard near the entrance to Groß St. Martin. Below is a close-up of

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-42027329269791826052009-07-25T08:33:00.012+02:002009-11-07T09:04:07.695+01:00

I once came across another site about Cologne where the author posted random sounds recorded from the city. I can no longer seem to locate that one. If you know of it, please pass it along with a comment below. I thought doing the same might make for a fun occasional feature. I only had an hour after class until She was done with work. I had a headache for most of the day and so ultimately

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-44586690928519762009-07-22T22:12:00.004+02:002009-07-22T22:29:04.973+02:00

A brief follow up on my last post. To recap, we've seen "Köln Kann's" and "Köln kann's besser." Enter a third variation: The FDP promises "Köln kann mehr." (Cologne can do more.)In all fairness, I haven't even been here for a month yet. And there is no way I could possibly make sense of the politics. But it sure makes it difficult to tell these parties apart when the slogans are all

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-5257527282927855132009-07-20T21:45:00.018+02:002009-07-22T22:30:03.597+02:00

She was at work hours before I ever woke up. She had been outside and already experienced the weather. But of course I ignored the advice over the phone about taking a rain coat. It looked beautiful outside the bedroom window. I'll wear my regular jacket and a bring a baseball hat just in case.I was awake early and felt good. Two cups of coffee, some toast. Finally, a nice day to go for a long

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-65683562443218037632009-07-18T09:47:00.010+02:002009-07-18T10:32:15.311+02:00

Not everything around here is completely foreign to me.Sometimes it is the context that makes it foreign. For example, this field behind the S-Bahn (subway) stop I use to go to school most mornings:The tepee is a real head-scratcher. We're pretty far north of the city center. And there's certainly a lot more open space around here. But seeing a pretty authentic looking tepee in an otherwise

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-43194282362547123282009-07-10T15:54:00.007+02:002009-09-25T17:59:45.110+02:00

Today marks the end of my first week in the Volkshochschule (commonly referred to as VHS). I signed up for a one month intensive summer course. Before moving I took several months of private one-on-one German lessons. I didn't quite reach level A2 before leaving and was a little apprehensive about where I might be placed. I certainly didn't want to start over again, but was worried that being

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-81588932514571560082009-07-09T22:54:00.002+02:002009-07-10T15:16:09.482+02:00

It has now been a full week since we've arrived. It has been a whirlwind. I think we arrived on fumes (us, not the plane). In addition to the sad goodbyes came the physical toll of all the packing and carrying of heavy suitcases. We carefully weighed each bag before we left. Somehow I was able to get by with just four suitcases plus carry-on items. For those interested, on international

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-6001633840734037782009-07-06T22:28:00.020+02:002009-07-06T22:46:59.055+02:00

No need to worry, I've arrived. Will have lots to write tomorrow. In the meantime, enjoy some photos from our blast through California.Alcatraz IslandView of California Street from back of California & Van Ness Cable CarSomewhere on Highway 1Fairly self-explanatoryFinally made the beachLa Brea Tar Pits!Kermit as the Little Tramp (Jim Henson Studios, formerly Chaplin Studios)

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-89876143667404279172009-07-01T15:39:00.004+02:002009-07-01T16:13:28.705+02:00

That's it. Time's up. Just a few more hours and we're off to the airport. This month flew by quickly. We had a great time in California. We saw about as much as possible in the time we had. Of course the best meals we ate on the trip were with family.For those interested, no, I'm not quite finished packing. What did you expect? Honestly I am shocked at how much we got done before today.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-64311616284763250692009-06-13T06:15:00.000+02:002009-06-13T06:28:19.693+02:00

We're heading out to the West Coast early in the morning. Hopefully I'll get some time to check in and post a few updates or at least some photos but we've got a pretty tight schedule. For the time being, below are a couple of my favorite California related songs.A bit about the music on this blog. When possible, I'll try my best to post up live music when it seems legally possibly. As you'll

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-22612404701890321812009-06-12T16:44:00.008+02:002009-06-15T07:29:31.364+02:00

Or so Harry Caray used to tell me on WGN. We're off to Wrigley Field in just a bit to see the Cubs battle the Minnesota Twins in the first interleague game of the year. This will most likely be the last game I attend in a long time. Weather looks perfect, if only a little on the cold side. Just checked the matchup and it appears we'll be seeing Randy Wells face off vs Kevin Slowey. Randy

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-11585212336689180202009-06-12T14:26:00.007+02:002009-06-15T07:20:42.726+02:00

Get rid of clothes: check.Donate old books: check.Sort through boxes of odds and ends: check.Quit work: check.Wow, we've gotten quite a bit done this week but I'm still a little worried. There's an awful lot of packing ahead of us. Still, we managed to get rid of a lot of things. I am sure more will be thrown out before I'm gone.Sorry for the delay in writing. I had a feeling it would be like

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-61694968392128468722009-06-04T05:17:00.000+02:002009-06-04T05:17:33.487+02:00

Finally. Tomorrow you arrive. No more waiting. No more sad goodbyes at the airport wondering when we'll be together again. Now it is the two of us. Together. Finally.Come and Find Me If I could trace the lines that ran Between your smile and your sleight of hand I would guess that you put something up my sleeve Now every time I see

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-15359191797681070952009-05-30T03:03:00.011+02:002009-05-31T23:37:16.255+02:00

What am I going to do for work when I get there? That's probably the most asked question I get when people hear of my plans.To be honest, I still don't have much of an answer. And that worries me quite a bit.But I stumbled across this today and it picked me up a little bit. Yeah okay, it did so mostly at the expense of you people here in the States. Nevertheless, maybe there's some hope for me.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-19264424544893317342009-05-28T06:30:00.001+02:002009-05-28T06:35:13.180+02:00

Again, for you "Produce Department" fans, all episodes have been located as well as some great extras for the DVD. No idea when it'll be completed, but hang in there. It is everything you ever thought it was and worse. I think I have a temporary neck spasm from all the cringing I've done watching these tapes.Completely unrelated, check out this article from the New York Times Magazine that a

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-50766058964175905702009-05-26T06:43:00.007+02:002009-05-26T07:47:05.665+02:00

Ok, I'm finally starting to find some empty boxes here. I spent a good part of this holiday weekend emptying out old boxes and files. At the same time, I've created a monster project for myself somewhere down the road. I finally went through several boxes of old video tapes. These tapes were full of school projects and family events. Of all the tapes I gathered up, I found I could pitch

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-56292996700346925452009-05-21T01:45:00.006+02:002009-06-01T06:41:07.191+02:00

It has been a while since I've posted. I can't say I've accomplished much more since dropping the news at work last week. I still have furniture and a bicycle to get rid of. I am still surrounded by a whole lot of useless stuff. And I still can't stomach throwing away so many things. I hope this is easier when She arrives in 2 weeks. I will truly be putting her German efficiency (her words)

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-33131069014769979222009-05-12T01:23:00.024+02:002009-05-24T19:08:20.859+02:00

Cross another one off the list. I just gave my one month's notice at work. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to this day. I think most people I work with would tell you I haven't been happy there for quite some time. Over the past few months the job has felt more and more like factory work. Less about creativity and more about repetition. Quantity over quality. All of us

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-2390672553896597052009-05-10T07:56:00.004+02:002009-05-12T06:33:14.590+02:00

It is Mother's Day and I'm pretty sure Mr. T still pities the fool who doesn't treat his or her momma right. Here's proof.Happy Mother's Day!

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-40920706788257615702009-05-08T05:52:00.012+02:002009-05-12T03:30:18.038+02:00

Well, that's it. 33. Yesterday I picked up some copies of my birth certificate and was reminded that my dad was 33 years old when I was born. Not sure if that falls under the ironic category but it certainly raised an eyebrow.I won't get too philosophical here. It would be quite easy to do so after the six beers my sister generously provided.Nevertheless, I just wanted to say thanks to my mom

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-35516709100744055292009-05-06T03:29:00.027+02:002009-05-10T08:21:55.776+02:00

The time really seems to be flying now. I've been able to get a fair amount done, but still so much remains.I suppose at this point, if you're following this blog at all, you're probably curious as to why I'm about to make this transition. The photo at left provides a clue. Some might say it is the end of a great story. I'd like to think it is just the beginning.Three years ago I was living on

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-48790674472404748942009-04-29T02:16:00.004+02:002009-05-10T08:22:23.351+02:00

I'm not one of those who remembers their dreams each night, but I've noticed that I've had an awful lot lately. And they are getting strange. With just a little over two months to go, I expect that they will be appearing with more frequency.Last night I dreamed I was in a crowded movie theater. I got there just after the movie started and I noticed there were no aisles. I had to hurdle

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-36636742456576474382009-04-25T16:37:00.004+02:002009-04-25T16:50:48.515+02:00

That was the very definition of procrastination. I told myself not to get too involved in this Cubs season - especially after the previous two. The last thing is for me to get wrapped up in this and then move thousands of miles away. Well, fortunately for me, last night's game occurred. I guess it was a blessing in disguise. One of those reminders that the Cubs are the Cubs and that more

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-39316586776502359922009-04-25T00:17:00.012+02:002009-04-25T08:38:47.356+02:00

It is Friday evening and it is absolutely gorgeous outside. This weekend's forecast calls for a whole lot of rain. There is a good chance that the Chicago area won't see weather like today's until mid-June. Seems like the perfect time to sit in a basement and put off doing the things that are more important.What are some of these things? I still have some homework to do before tomorrow's

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-9231886721699002632009-04-23T04:35:00.006+02:002009-04-25T01:15:56.513+02:00

Just days into this blogging thing and I have come across some major IT issues. Seems the wireless router is on the fritz. I may have made a major breakthrough tonight. Nearly complete guesswork seems to have solved the issue. In fact it appears faster than it had been. Then again, it has appeared to work these last few nights only to revert to crap in the morning. We shall see about this.

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4920249742971858301.post-60630850209710142012009-04-20T02:11:00.008+02:002009-04-23T06:07:12.300+02:00

On July 1st, 2009 I will be moving from Chicago to Cologne, Germany. Three years ago, I had very little knowledge about day to day life in Germany. Frankly, I never thought much of visiting the country. And Cologne? For someone with little to no sense of smell, cologne was something I was always afraid of overusing before going on a date.By mid-June I will have quit a solid, well paying job

chikolnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11237814096105831535noreply@blogger.com0