Seeking my German Brain

I will be so happy when my German brain catches a flight over here to join me.  I am not sure if it just didn’t want to be a part of our very bad week of jet lag upon our return to Germany or if it was just enjoying some of the luxuries of the American lifestyle that I guess I have always taken for granted. 

I beg you, my German brain, please return for you know…

• Better than to buy a ton of groceries at one time and then suffer the walk home.
• Not to scrape food off plates into the sink since there is no such thing as a disposal.
• How to speak to neighbors in German without sounding silly-it is hard after four weeks of English only.
• It is better to do a little laundry everyday because it will not all fit in the washer or clothesline in one day.
• Not to expect air conditioning-anywhere- even though the temperatures are soaring. (you could have warned me on this one)
• Not to take it personally when someone doesn’t return my “hello” but rather looks at me like I’m crazy.
• To remember to answer the telephone, “hello, here is Hoff”.
• To sweep our portion of the sidewalk every morning.
• Not to plan to cook more than one item in the oven for dinner.
• Most importantly, do not put the jeans/sweaters away because the weather can change dramatically in one hour flat.

Yep, my German brain is a pro for this very different lifestyle I live in Germany and makes me forget that it can be a little more challenging at times than what I was used to in America.  But my American brain is pretty helpful too, it gave me a great piece of advice this week; When it gets too hot, just head to the pool!!!