Mmm

So, Molly turned me on to bio croissants. Oh man so tasty. And now I can feel better about eating a croissant! So, I tried to make the delcious shortcake jamble thing and get this: besides Switzerland having no Cheez-its, Chewy Bars, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Sourdough, Urban Outfitters and Peanut Butter, they also have NO BROWN SUGAR. WTF. So, I can't make it.

December 3

I'm in a good mood today because tomorrow is my birthday. So, after French, I decided to skip Biology because there's a test, I'm not going to take it and I'll just be bored. So, I came home and found....TOAST BREAD! I was ecstatic. I remembered the spring days in Albany where I had toast toast toast with honey which later became peanut butter and honey. I decided to re-inact that delicious meal so, my honey search began (there's like no peanut butter anywhere but my house mom found some in Germany). I look in the cupboard and see no large honey jar. Instead a very small one. I pick it up and read the description then look at the way the honey flows for inspection. It was orange blossom, I believe and it looked amazing. So eager to taste this honey, I started twisiting it. It wouldn't budge. This failure made me pretty sad espescially since my toast was the perfect golden brown. I got no delcious honey but toast is toast and I missed it. I can't wait to eat french bread toast and sourdough toast! The latter apparently doesn't exist here. But, I'll miss my migros bio delcious croissant. Mmm. I think I'll head over to coop and buy more bread. Coop isn't nearly as good as Mirgros. It lacks the awesome rhmying name and it doesn't have the extremely delcious croissont chicken thing. Oh man. Love. But, in one Coop I did find an item which I was told did not exist in this realm of the world. BLUEBERRY MUFFIN. And I have to say, it was the most delcious, fattening blueberry muffin ever. My Coop doesn't have that, unfortunately.

Today

Wasn't so good until I got home. We played the awesome Swiss game and, I studied. So much. I studied tons of German on my new favorite site: answers.com where you can easily learn stuff you've got to know. It's excellent for languages. I'll be using it for music too, however. Catherine is helping me learn all the fis cis blah blach scales for my music theory. That's my favorite class (and drawing. And french although french isn't challenging enough for me. That's why I've been learning it out my own). Anyways, she made me a test with all this and she was saying 'oh nein' the whole time. I apparently failed...I had 3,75. out of 6. But, I think she was being nice. I'm aiming to get notes in four class. Computer App, drawing, music theory and French.

It was also really funny because when I was studying music theory, I looking over to get my sole study guide with all I need to know and....it was burning. I could salvage only one third of it. I'm making it my goal for tonight and tomorrow to know all of this fis businuss. I also made funny things to help me remember like....Gilbert Drowns An Elephant Having Fish and France Became Astrofic Destroying Guest's Cesear. Okay. The last one doesn't make much sense but I somehow remember it so whatever.

Snow!

It snowed here! Not much and it's actually almost gone but, it was a nice morning surprise. Yesterday was a day I'd been looking forward to for some time. It was the 'Pfauen' day. Pfauen is sort of like bloomingdales. Except it has house stuff and toys...and it's not as big but it has five floors with a restraunt on top. Anyways, my aunt and host mom go every year for hours and hours to this places because my aunt has 20% off. So, of course I wanted to go to and it was loads of fun. I had a small list of things I wanted to buy. Both really exensive. I didn't buy any of them either. Instead, I went to my replacemnet store for Urban Outfitters (Zara) and bought a beautiful skirt. It is green and black. It reminds me of autumn in England. Well, that's the picture it evokes for me. And, I bought a wool grey sweater because I have no grey and I wear the same H&M sweater practically everday. On this outing, I fell in love with two pairs of shoes, three jackets, a dress and starred admiringly at other items I'll never have. It's a disease. And Europe did this to me with its absurdly amazing clothes and shoes. The US just doesn't have good shoes. Another good thing about yesterday was when I checked how the US dollar as doing. Instead of the pound being double the US dollar-something it's been for, I believe, the entirety of my life-its value dropped 50%. The Euro has finally gone down to the value it was at four or five years ago, and since I've been here, 1 dollar = 1.23 CHF. That's about 20% more. I asked my host dad why, and he said it was because the dollar is now 'safe' or something. Anyways, I am so happy. Hopefully this means I'll be able to take how a few more clothing souvenirs. Mom?

Today I'm going to go walking in the forest with Catherine, play the piano, study French and Music Theory, read, finish writing letters and bake cookies. I've been reading Wuthering Heights and that just sounds so stereotypical 1800s. Espescially with the name Catherine. Just because she's two main characters in Wuthering Heights. Okay enough.

update

So...Friday in chemistry we made great lipbalm and hand cream. It was legit and everything.

One thing that's great about the school here is that when your teacher is absent that means you don't have that class. It's so awesome. Wr have weird scheduels all the time. And the fact that we're only one class, that allows us to TAKE FIELD TRIPS! OH MAN. I miss those! And I know that your stupid art classes take you places but, we're going to the Zoo, Molly went camping or so for a week, my sister went river rafting and I'm pretty sure everyone goes skiing or snowboarding once. Anyways, there are loads and it's great!

Saturday I went ice skating with Anna Buser (we're getting to be great friends). Yes, we always speak English with each other. And with good reason, too. It's refreshing and wonderous to hear 'hella' and 'I'm so juiced' and 'dude.' You have no idea. She's my little piece of Albany. Yesterday, however, I was in one of my really low points I'd been in for a while (that was my worse). I'm feeling considerably better today although, I'm not at my finest. I'm a bit stuck. I really needed and need Molly but, I an't really get a hold of her. Luckily, she's agreed to come over for my birthday weekend. I don't think we'll do much, as I detest my birthday, but it'll be comforting knowing that it's better than the horror last year brought me. Catherine unintentionally made me feel better. I don't really know how or why but all in all, it's great having a sister. I'm pretty sure I bug her a lot, for I'm always inqcuiring what she's doing and such. Another reason for my mood raise was because 1. in the Summer we're definitely going to Sweden and 2. in Spring we're going to either Berlin, Prague (woah...just had a German first thought there. Anyways, I don't think we're going there), Barcelona or Rome. I'm trying to think of other places. 1. Prague 2. Rome 3. Berlin 4. Barcelona. I have no idea why I'm so against Barcelona. Ich habe kein lust. Ich weiss nicht warum. Ich liebe Deutsch sprachen wenn ich kann. Aber, es ist sehr sweirig manchmal und ich kann nicht shrieben. So, all in all, I'm pretty lucky. In Febuary I really want to go to Holland or Paris; with my friends. But, I don't know when we're going skiing...

the Days. die Tage. les Jours (that's all I know...)

My favorites are when I speak a lot of German. That was today. It kind of sucks because sometimes I'm talking to someone and then I don't understand and then they try to explain it to me but, I still don't understand. Life fails.

I love the sandwiches here. And I usually hate sandwiches. The food here as grown to love on me. Now, it's not only 'Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate, cookies, chocolate, marble cake, chocolate, chocolate.' There's more to food then sweets, Max. I love the croissentss with ham and cheese. I love the wrapped hotdog thingys. I love pasta with applesauce. I can't believe Americans haven't thought of putting applesauce on pasta. They make cheesy fries but no applesauce pasta? For those of you who are cringing your nose, you can join life. It's delicious. And apparently pineapple goes with more than pizza and cake. It's delicious with cheese dishes. Which puts pizza in the cateogorie...eww cheesy cake. CHEESE CAKE. That was not a good cake invention. Blech. Cakes can go wrong so easily. That's why I'm picky about my birthday cakes. And that's why laste year fudge subbed for cake (oh man....that was delicious). Anyway, my wisdom to yours. I think it would be really awesome if I became wise and knowledgeable. And after Switzerland I could just sit in a teepee and have people come to me then say an obscure proverb and have it change their life. And a bunch of incense.

So, while German is awesome, I'm discovering how much I love English. There are so many creative, quirky things you can do with it (though I have yet to figure them out) and, I really miss the over-use of 'epic,' 'intense,' 'fail,' and 'hilarious.' I'm gonna have to teach these youngins some of that.

Hehe. Ramble ramble. I'm going to the carnival soon. I feel like it would fail (wow. see? over use)
or crumble or die in San Francisco. Serious chaos. I bet they never even tried it because it was just inevitable. Well, here it's all neutral. Nothing bad nothing fantastic. That's not true but, that's the best I could do with Swiss stereotypes.

ah k. Ich gehe jetzt. Ich will shoppen aber, ich finde es ist sehr spät. Gah.

Presents

For all who read this, feel free to ask me for Christmas presents. Tell me want you wand and I'll determine if it takes up all my monies or not. Except mommy. You can have a lot.

Halloween and the day after

Halloween! As you might now, I wasn't looking forward to it at all because I love Halloween. Something Switzerland just doesn't see. But, as it turned out, two Albany buddies couldn't celebrate so, I was a bit happier. Not very nice but, oh well. AND my Halloween was so great. So, I went to school blah blah blah...went home at twelve and was not looking forward to going to German class (I learn nothing) and such. So, my host mommy said I could skip school for the rest of the day. Didn't even complain or anything. So, I sat and looked at books I'd love to read then, we left for Adelboden at around four and picked up my awesome Gotti (Aunt) and we were off for a girls only weekend. We get there and....SNOW. SO MUCH SNOW. It was wonderful. The hotel itself is modern. Very Astridy. With teasing pumpkins on a table and a shelf with good English and French books. I picked out 'Rocket Boy.' I'm really sad, however, because I've wanted to read this book for some time and, since I've only read one hundred pages and I have less than a day left, I'll leave this hotel with only half of the true story in my head. Anyways, I'm curently residing in a four star hotel. In our room, there's a loft which is where Catherine and I sleep. It's so awesome! Later that night, we went for yummmmmy expensive Tai food then, of course, to the swimming pools. Like everything else, super fancy and top noch with a modern waterfall residing next to the indoor pool and, of course it's a 'Never Ending Pool.' The outdoor pool is of course our favorite. It's well heated and oh yea. And amazing view (I'll post pictures) of the snowy mountains and town below us. We were the only ones in it so, we had our fun. At night we jumped out into the cold air, layed in snow (with only a wet bathing suit for warmth), then rushed back into the pool with heat pain. We also threw snow at each other in the pool. I'm not sure if the hotel would appreciate that. SAUNA. Something every fancy hotel has. And oh man. This was one intense sauna. There were all these steps you had to complete before entering the 'Finish Sauna.' Which, of course, is the best. So, there we were at ten. Lying in our birthday suits gaving up at the small star-like lights that faded into other colors. It was so relxing. Despite our intense vacationing, we did not forget halloween. Following my path, Catherine stole a small pumpkin from the lobby and, we rented two scary movies. 'Halloween' and 'The Shining' (naturally). Halloween....was not so great. We mostly laughed. That night I had a dream that was definitely influenced by that movie.

Halloween Story Over.

I'm having so much fun :)

CLASSES!

Montag: 7.55 Enlgish 8.45 English 9.40 Nothing 10.40 Economics 11.30 Economics 12.25 lunch 13.20 German for Guests 14.15 German for Guests 15.00 Nothing 14.oo Piano 14.30 School is over

Dienstag: 8.45 French 9.40 History 10.40 History 11.30 Lunch 12.25 Chemistry 13.20 German 14.15 German 15.10 Art 16.05 Art

Mittwoch: 7.55 French 8.45 French 9.40 Math 10.40 Biology 11.30 Biology 12.15 Lunch 13.20 Computers/Practical Biology 14.15 Computers/Practical Biology 15.10 Nothing 16.05 Sports 16.55 Sports

Donnerstag: 7.55 Enlgish 8.45 Math 9.40 Math 10.40 German 11.30 Music Theory

Freitag: 7.55 Practical Chemistry 8.40 Practical Chemistry 9.40 Geography 10.40 Geography 11.30 Homeroom 12.15 Lunch 13.20 German 14.15 German 15.10 Music Theory 16.05 Sports 16.55 Sports

Okay. You're free to stalk me, now.

Also, I barely get any homework in any of these classes so, it's okay.

Enlgish: Our teacher has an Australien accent. She's nice and offered to give me some English books to read. Seeing as my book stash is diminishing like my candy stash, I'll take her up on that offer. As you can imagine, it's the easiest class. Kind of intimidates me. It'd be horrific to fail an Enlgish for non-natives test.

Economics: Boring. This doesn't relate to the world at all. It's mostly basic stuff. I don't understand any of it anyways. I usually spend the duration of the class beating my translater on tic tac toe. I'm pretty much a pro, now.

German for Guests: Good. I know some people in this class, thankfully. The teacher is really nice in this class, too. I'm actually learning how to create sentences unlike in Olten.

Piano: My teacher is a woman from Hungary. She speaks no English which is sort of awesome.

French: This teacher is the head of our class. She's not at all like Mrs. Selvin (meaning not black. Okay, bad joke). She's not the type of person that would make you cry, is what I'm trying to say. The principle of my school said earlier that this class might be too difficult for me. Well, it turns out I'm ahead. Gave me pride. And I'm not just being snotty. My teacher somehow noticed and talked to me about it. She's giving me some books to read in French which is really exciting. This class also aids me with my pathetic German because I have the French translations must be again translated to me. I learn two languages at once. Oh, also...I cannot speak French at all. Or barely understand it, thanks to Ms. Selvin. Whenever I try, German beats France up Hitler style. And German words come out instead.

Geography: Hate this teacher. She was mean to me on my first day :( I can imagine this class would deeply interest me. But, it doesn't because I barely understand anything.

Chemistry: Sort of different than at home. The Table of Elements is not the same for some reason. I love Chemistry (ha?).

German: Hate this class. It's sort of interesting sometimes, however. Like, we don't do essays or really read books. That's not the focus. Sometimes we listen to classical music (actually, a lot) and learn about paintings and stuff. The teacher is an old man who is awesome. Okay, I don't hate it I just don't understand anything at all.

Drawing: Teacher is wonderful. This class is so great. It's on the bottom floor of the Gym. and so we're slightly lower than the ground. I love taking an art class. It's so calming even though my product is crap.

Math: Way way way behind. Let me remind you, though. I'm in a slightly lower school. There's an intense part of the school, not intense school and kind of a school for bad kids. Hehehee. Yea so, my school isn't math focused. Or Science focused. Right now we're doing areas and volumes. I can't believe how much time she's given us for this one sheet of paper. That plus two more would be homework for a night in Albany. And we've had a month.

Biology: Boring

Computer: Here, my class is split up. One week ten of us go to Practical Biology and the next week we switch. This class is really frustrating because I can't make out the instructions or the words on the computer. I feel utterly pathetic.

Practical Biology: Not really into the teacher but, this class is phenomenal! We all get individual microscopes and we look at Ameobe (Ameobas in English?) and it's so facinating. I love the microscopic animals racing around. I sometimes name them which is slightly creepy.

Sports: OH MAN! I forgot gym could actually be fun! We don't run and stuff. We just play sports. Right now we're doing tumbling which is not my thing at all. So, I usually don't do anything. Or I do sevral push-ups to the side: I know people secretly laugh at me for that.

Music Theory: The teacher is kind of a butt however, this is still my favorite class. On Thursdays we excersize our voices. After that, we sing hilarious songs like 'Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head,' 'If I Was a Rich Man' and 'No Woman no Cry.' It's so awesome. Fridays we learn how to read music and everything that follows.

Practical Chemistry: Half of our class goes to this weekly, like the Computers/Practical Biology. Today the teacher underestimated my common sense and German knowledge so, I'm not a huge fan of her. Besides that, she's alright. Like Practical Biology, this is also physical. AKA labs. I feel bad because people need to work more when teamed up with me (my German illeteracy).

History: Teacher is nice. Pretty good and average boringness.

Homeroom: This is where we learned about a cooking project we'll be doing in like 8 months. I though that was kind of intense. We also have done memory games and such? It's kind of strange, I guess. On the plus side, sometimes we get out earlier for lunch.

Okay so. In the FMS (my regular school) there's no bell. In the Gymnasium there's a quiet bell which is nice because at Albany it's like we're driven toward pre-mature deafness. AHS teamed up with hearing aid companys (and accessories) in a conspiracy to make us consume more. It's not very nice. I therfore appreciate the quiet bell. We also use only blackboards. After class, two students wipe the board with a window-wiper thing and water. Everday I go home for lunch except Tuesdays where I eat at school. I'm usually sorta anti-social but, I love eating Museli.

COURSES!

Monday: 7.55 English 8:45 English 9:40 nothing 10.40 Economics 11:30 Economics 12:15 Lunch 13:20 German for Guests 14:15 German for Guests 15.00 Nothing 16.00 Piano lessons 16.30 School is over

Tuesday: 8.45 French 9:40 History 10:40 History 11.20 Lunch 12.25 Chemistry 13.20 German 14.15 German 15.00 Drawing 16.05 Drawing

Wed: 7.55 French 8.45 French 9.40 Math 10.40 Biology 11.30 Biology 12.15 Lunch 13.20 Practical Biology or Computer 14.15 Practical Biology or Computer 15.00 Nothing 16.05 Sports 16.55 Sports

Thursday: 7.55

October 28

Okay SUNDAY. Was a perfect day. Not hot, not really cold. So, I went for a walk in the forest while listening to a podasct about sleeping. It was really interesting, of course. The walk itself was too short for my tastes but, I had to go meet up with Catherine because we wanted to run there. Autumn kind of ended a bit, that day. The air was smoky and windy. The colorful leaves on the floor of the forest. Amazing. Well, we did this great 2.5 km run. It made me feel a teensy bit better about pigging out on candy the day before but, that satisfation quickly left when we made brownies and ate this delicious burgersalad thing. Yumm. The next day started out well. I'm getting better at being less bored in class without making myself sad. That used to be a bit difficult because I have nothing else to think about except for uh Parker. But, now I'm bringing in stuff I've written down that I want to relearn or memorize. Like, today I know about vitamins, their purpose and which food is the best source of that. I'm sure I'll be able to use that loads (note the sarcasm). And then there was today. Pretty average. Rainy and cold. I might go to the city with a few people from my class. I know I definitely should but, I'm so tired I'll probably be no fun at all. And the carnival IS SO MUCH MONEY. I cannot afford that. 8CHF for one ride? 1min ride. Pleeassse. I could buy a delicious crepe with that money. Okay, that's ridiculously priced too.

Europapark! #2

So, I wasn't actually done but that's alright. In Europapark I thought a lot about the Disneyland trip with me and Cassie. It was so great. And, I thought about how Europapark was kind of a rip-off of it and it just didn't compare. But, it was still fun. There was Pirates of Guantanamo (sp?) Bay. So much like Pirates of the Carribean, but not as fantastic. There was an indoor one in a dome, Posideon like blah blah and such. It was neat because hey had most of the European countries and they're own town. No Vatican City, Liechtenstien or Portugal, I think. Surprisingly, however, they had Africa (I'm not sure Europe has yet to realize that Africa is its own continent...and definitely three times its size) and Dinosaurs and Halloween. Now, dinosaurs and Africa, okay, but Halloween?! It was so mean. I'm already suffering enough, thank you. So stop dangling Halloween in my face. I'm not sure if you know this but, Halloween doesn't really exist in Europe. That's right. They don't do Halloween. they may fool you with their abundent supply of pumpkins but I assure you, they don't.

One of my favorite rides was this 4D cinema. I've been to those, but in this one the story was...actually great. There was no talking. We were a cat. the cat made its way into an abandoned spooky mansion (Halloween-themed). We follow a rat, which leads us to a dead dog that follows us. We escape into this room with seeingly-friendly toys that actually try to kill us. After many close encounters with death, we are captured (and escape) by a vine who seeks to eat our flesh. Then we escape and meet a hungry snake, and spiders before getting outside. Once outside there's a doll with a lantern that beckons us toward a grave and trys to push us in. There are skeletons and the ghost dog who jumps at us. Then, finally, we look into a puddle and what to we see? Our cat-ghost reflection. It was wonderful. Another great 4D part I didn't experience in the other cinemas, is that when it was raining, there were actually drops on our head.

All in all, a great day. Today I'm going to a lonely walk in the forest. I think that's all.

Oh, and I have to make a stupid decision. Shoes shoes shoes. Yes. Do I want to be quirky and unique with awesome forest dwelling shoes? Or cute and cold with sparkly purple flats? Or maybe stylish and sophisticated with oxford shoes. Any help on this matter would be much appreciated. Actually, and ASAP help would be because I have to make up my mind by tomorrow. AKA mommy help me!

Europapark!

IS WHERE I WENT! IT WAS SO GREAT. I even felt sick at the end of the day so, I knew it had completes its purpose. I basically ate all the candy in the world then brought some home for me adding to my candy-food stash (yes, I have one, although it deteriorates rahter quickly and I therefor must keep building it up). And on the subject of obeseness, no. I won't become that because I am eating fairly well for Europe. And, apparently its impossible to avoid weight gain when you're on an exchange. Luckily you return to your normal size upon home arrival. Anyway, back to Europapark. I become unreasonably excited when it comes to amusement parks. This calls for some more reminiscence. My first roller coaster. I believe I was eight or so. And I hated roller coasters. That fact frightens me, now. I was a pretty adventurous little girl but for no reason I would not go on roller coasters. Luckily for my sanity, I voluntered to go on the scariest roller coaster in Great America. Pretty out of character, I'd say. On this ride, you're laying down. Upside down and all. Unbelievably amazing. That was all it took, for me. I was ready for any safeish coaster the world could bring me. Unfortunately, on a later visit to Great America I discovered that my old friend's age of fun had come to an end.

October 23

A pretty good day, all in all. I'm having some trouble, right now but, I'm trying to get through it with happy thoughts. It's just that German is so difficult and I don't really have friends. I am so happy I have Catherine, though. We watch Gilmore Girls (she has every season and it's such a feel-good show) and play 'Dog' and stuff. Oh! Right now she's teaching me the Amelie song on piano. Sehr sehr shön! Ich liebe es. Yea. I can make short sentences fine but seriously. German. So difficult. That's why even when I use my tranlsator I usually don't understand the sentence or question. Okay, this is not nearly the worst German sentence ever but, right now, it's the only one I have written out. That I understand. 'Ich konnte nicht gehen, also ist stattdessen meine Schwester gegangen.' If you literally translated it, word by word, it would be this: I could not go so, is instead my sister went.' Okay. That's actually not bad at all. That's really easy. And: 'Könne ich stattdessen frische Milche für meinen Tee bekommen' is: Can I instead fresh milk for my tea have? YESSSSS! I'm not looking forward to the longest day in the world tomorrow. Grrrrr. Okay, I'm gonna watch Gilmore Girls now so more tomorrow. Tscüss! Swiss German is so cute.

October 18th weekend? I forget dates

Okay well, Friday was terrible and the longest day. But, luckily for me, MOLLY CAME THAT DAY! IT WAS AWESOME! I was so happy and such. So, later we watched Wallace and Gromit then talked for 3-4 hours in bed. That was awesome because we agreed on everything and I've never talked about that stuff with anyone because no one agrees with me on it because they're stupid. No, not really. So, we woke up at 8:30 to get ready to go to Basel cause we needed to pick IDA up. So, we did and stuff. That was cool too. Ida is like the cutest person ever. So, then we walked around town and Molly and I droped a total of 150CHF at a writting store (PRESENTS TOO) which is like the coolest store ever. It's up on a driveway-looking street by the Rhine and one store past the Condomeria. Then we ate lunch on steps leading in t othe Rhine and it was such a beautiful day. After, we went home then biked to the Robinson where we climbed basically every tree house we could. After that, we went straight to the Forest where we hiked up a hill off-route and what did we find? A pumpkin patch. A legit one, too. Because there's no Halloween here so it's actually for eating. We took two gourds and a small pumpkin then made plans for our return when the tractor wasn't there. At home we ate yummy pizza, listened to great music, read about the Donner Party? Yea and at 9 or so, we rode back to the forest. And, we went off route up the patch which was much more painful and scary then our previous journey. Apparently, Ida had never been to a pumpkin patch. And, by her reactions, that was not surprising. She was just like 'OMG! THIS ONE! NO NO NO THIS ONE! THIS ONE IS BIIGER' and it was awesome. But, she was carrying it so we had no problem wit that. We wanted to bake it when we got home but, that failed and we ended up going to bed at 1 then waking up at 730 to take Ida to the station. That day my laptop broke. I was so mad but, Molly mad me feel better. SUnday we had another like 4 hour meal. This time with our French cousins. That was awesome. I spoke so much German and understood a lot too. Nevertheless, I was happy. And now I've gotta go to school.

October 15

Today was really good. And, I'm noticing how quickly the days past by which is kind of surprising. I feel like yesterday was Monday. So, I'm very very gradually making friends. It's difficult when we don't have a serious common interest. Like, at all the AFS stuff we made good friends right away because we all had something huge in common. And, because of that we're all similar. Sort of adventurous and daring, I'd say. So, it was even more than that. It was like people who would like each other getting together and hanging out. There's only one exchange student I don't like. Hopefully she'll get smarter and less annoying. 

So....want to hear about my almost-not-quite friends? It feels peculiar to write about this, but oh well. So...right now my favorites have changes. Alexandra is a strawberry-haired girl and is sorta shy but not. She has a kind of high voice and talks clearly. She explains everything to me in German and actually commits to talking in German and stuff. A lot of people speak English to me which is really annoying. I do not want to speak English at all. I'm already fairly good at that, thank you very much. But, I guess they want to practice. So, then there's Layla. She's tall and I think Indian. Realllllllly really nice. I invited her over for lunch sometime next week along with Elena. Elena has the most hilarious laugh ever. It's so great. She's also insanely nice. Then, Rebecca. We talk a bit but I'm not sure we have a lot in common. She's also one of the three people in our class that smokes ciggggggs. Along with....this ginger girl. Forgot her name. She has this sweet lip piercing and she's nice and funny as well. Then there's Jolanda who speaks English sometimes with me (along with the other girls which is annoying as I stated above). Then there's Jeremy who I sometimes talk to. He's cool because whenever we talk/whenever he asks me questions it's about politics or German vs. English or something of the sort. I admit, the conversation sometimes fails cause I'm limited to 'I want....' 'I like to eat...' 'What are we doing...' and I therefor cannot possible respond to a political question like 'In the vie presidential debate both Palin and Biden did not win me over because Palin is full of shit, stupid and therefor does not know what she's talking about and Biden is better but he wasn't the best in the Political debate' I actually couldn't get past 'Vice Presidential debate.' 

Speaking of that debate...Seriously. I have yet to see the Presidential debate, unfortunately but, I guess that Saturday Night Live clip says exactly what I thought. Especially when Biden and Palin were discussing 'gay rights' and they both said they should have every right that a married couple. But under no circumstances should they be allowed to married. Well, there's no such thing as a perfect person. 

October 14

On my translator I have 'Word of the Day' (which is actually a lie because I get a different one every time I turn it on). I used to find it extremely annoying and pointless because I often don't know the English translation or it's a seriously random word I've not found I've needed so far (like I got 'Shepherd' today. Though, I must admit that's a bit more useful than others). Now, however, I've come to appreciate that fact and I'm almost disappointed when the word is actually useful. So, in class, I sit there turning it on and off writing down these words I can't translate. It's so fun. 

So in Chemistry we got back a test that I took roughly three weeks ago. The grading system is 1-6, 6 being the best. I thought I got a one but...I got a 2,2! I was really proud because I didn't fill out most of the pages and for only studying German for four weeks, then taking a Chemistry test among the pros, I thought that was super (and then my friend told me she got a 6....). My teacher was really surprised that I even took that and was even more so with my final grade. I'm sure I got a 0 on my Biology one, though. But, I also didn't learn anything in Biology.

And I have yet to discover the German word for 'awkward.' That word alone describes many days. 

I have an average teenage-girl moment for ya. Okay so after school I was really happy. It's really autumn (yea, that's right. It's more autumn here than anywhere else. not really but still) and beautiful trees and skies and orange leaves on the ground. AND I'm finally making friends, speaking way more German and understanding more each day, actually. Oh and listening to one of my favorite Okkervil River songs. So, I'm going to my bike, and this whole day I've wanted so much to sing out loud. Especially when listening to Of Montreal. Mouth the words, at the very least. So, I did. No one was there, really. I was sorta mouthing the words and dancing while I took off my lock for my bike and, of course, I look up and this guy from my class (of course the only person around me) was sorta snickering and smiling. Then he just said 'ciao' and walked along his merry way. People say 'ciao' here. And 'merci,' just so you know. They also do that kissing on the cheek (or lips) that totally freaks Molly and I out. Okay. It doesn't really freak us out, we're just not really used to it. At all. And it turns into a total awkward moment where we're wishing we were somewhere else. Speaking of Molly....California. Nebraska. And Norway. Sleepover. This weekend. I'm pretty psyched for that. My German is going to die this weekend. 

October 12

Yesterday I went to Zurich with my 'class.' It turned out to be my teacher, me and Ida. Hilarious, I tell you. Pretty strange. After Ida and our teacher left, I stayed in Zurich for one and a half hours. Really really good shopping but, so expensive. I also could only find boots or black shoes which was really annoying. Then I came home and, of course, got lost on the way but I eventually found it back home. I'm still really tired. Gonna try to go back to sleep. 

October 10

Oh. My. So, today I went to France. I've always thought France was overrated, and Paris wasn't my favoritest city it in the world. But, today I went to France with my cousin and her boyfriend who I ate yummy ummy home-made Tai food with on wed. I thought it would be like everything I've seen before. And, I was right. The drive there was like Switzerland's corn fields, but way less beautiful. So, it was about a two hour drive to the capital of Alsace (Just France is 10min away. Same with Germany), which is Strasbourg. It reminded me loads of Amsterdam. There's a canal, or a few running through the city and brick wall around them with steps down to another sidewalk. The buildings were stereotypically European/French. Long, beautiful, directly bordering others. But, for some reason, even before the sun came out, I was in love. Strasbourg is the most beautiful city I have ever been to. Not place-that goes to a random Swiss countryside (I could never explain their beauty. It would do them no justice but holy crap. . . everyone should see what I've seen). It's not crowded-meaning loads of people-and it's not touristy. Most everyone speaks German there, because it's so close to Germany and Alsace was sometimes German territory. The shops....basically gourmet chocolate, special crepes, super amazing tea, antique stores, used music stores . . . they're all so perfect. Once we sat down on large steps that dove into the canal. It was so beautiful. each way you turn, you could see the amazing brick bridges that cover the city. I wasn't sad about leaving this place, actually relieved, because I know I am going back there. And, I want to go back with someone that I love and can share this place with, as cheesy as that sounds. On the ride back, we passes through French vineyards. There was the smallest, scrunchiest town placed between two hills. In it, there was a small vineyard and . . . ah. It was like a French .... bay area? Not at all. Just, inside it reminded me of some places from California. That's why I loved this town so much. The hill we went up to a dead end where there was some open space and a playground, reminded me of one of the only places I love in Marin. The vineyards remind me of the ones on our way to the Russian River, naturally; the river flowing through reminded me of this forest my mom, dad and I sometimes went to, but never do anymore and the town itself....well...it is so far from anything in the bay area, but I love it's European look. I wouldn't mind living there. 

Marco, Sarah's boyfriend (who I went with today) is hilarious. He'd speak random Spanish to the French people and funny English. Ha. There was this French guy in a wheel chair who was commenting on the fact that he didn't like Marco's gaged ears, and then just started vaguely hitting on us. We couldn't help but laugh a lot. Then he said how he wanted to get to know all of us and oh man....it was a you-should-have-been-there moment for sure. Too funny. 

October 7

TODAY! I woke up early, had a lovely and uhm detailed skype convo with Lion, then I went to IKEA! with meine neue Mutter. Das was sehr sehr gut. Ich muss sprachen Deutsch, wisst du. Lolololol. Ha. I'm actually terrible. But, it's difficult when everyone speaks Swiss-German (it's entirely different, if I've not said so before. Germans canNOT understand Swiss-German).

The Swiss trust people so much. You just go in and try your stuff on. No one there to make sure the number of the clothes you went in with is the same as when you leave the changing room. And on trams, no one checks your ticket and rarely (but sometimes) on the train. And, today we went to a farmer and there's no guy at the register. I mean, it'd be unbelievably low to steal food there, but it's built on a trust system. People count their item's worth and deposit money into a box. But, I was still surprised seeing as bay area folk would cause them to go bankrupt.

Today I also went shopping with a classmate, Jolanda. I bought my dream coat. Wowowow. Beautiful. And mom, I decided you are wrong. Red gloves are what I need. And, it's been a year, so I am now obligated to purchase them and red shoes. FINALLY! Red keds. Earlier, I went through a really grungy stage but, now I'm back to classic. Kind of.

Tomorrow I will be home most of the day. I'm gonna go to lunch at my Aunt's house because Astrid isn't here to make me lunch. I know. I'm perfectly capable of eating cereal, and I told them so but, the cool this is, they really really favor eating all meals with family. Having parents home for lunch. It's nice. Ohhh man. My host Uncle. Hilarious guy. He doesn't speak any English. He's like, the best. Whenever he laughs, you have no other decision but to join in. Yesterday, when I went to congratulate my host Grandpa about turning...90 80? I dunno...he came and picked me up. It was awkward sometimes, with no one else in the car but, it was funny. He's just really great. Kurt.

October 6

Okay. Most amazing thing ever. When we were swimming (outside in a heated pool) at night in Leukerbad, It was already so beautiful. We couldn't, of course, see the usual mountain view but, at night it's so peaceful and we get to go into the Jacuzzi-like thing with our goggles and dare each other to do nearly impossible stuff. Well, while we were swimming, it started to snow! It was so great. Then, that night I dreamed that it snowed outside. As soon as I woke up, Catherine pointed to outside. And, sure enough, snow was covering everything. It was thick snow, because it was only from that night, but it was so great! Now I'm just hanging around the house like a lazy bum. Giving my ipod beautiful Album covers. 

It looks nice today so, I think I'll explore the forest. 

October 3

Hello all. I don't have much to say about adventures but, I do have some to say about my level of tirdeness. Which isn't that much, but I still had an intense night, in my book. I feel like a lot of stuff happened that normally shouldn't while on vacation. But, no matter. it actually wasn't so intense but, that's alright. Lately, I've been having lots of dreams that I guess lead to my tiredness level. This is why I gave up on being a Buddhist. My mind just doesn't sleep. And, I wouldn't trade my nightmares for a dreamless night. I love them, actually. Well, lately we've been playing three games of Dog (which is like Sorry but so so so so much better) so, I had this fracking frustrating dream about actually playing it. Who wants to play a boardgame in their sleep? No one at all. I'd rather be fighting of evil people or flying. Something I can't do in real life. Or would be too scared to do.

So, I've been thinking about gifts for you all and they're great. And expensive, unfortunately so no cool new shoes or pretty things (except a watch) for me for a while. And mommy, there is so much I'd like to buy you, it's insane. So, I think I'll buy you this one thing and the other super expensive thing I'll buy as a gift for both of us because we'd both enjoy it (and I do right now, thankfully).

So, tomorrow we leave for Basel again. I'm kind of exciting because I get to finally hang out with people from my awesome class and do nothing. Catherine's going to Tunisia asap (actually on the way) so it's just me and my guitar. And the rest of my family, of course. Oh man chocolate. Has anyone seen the chocolate episode from Spongebob? That's the motto of Molly and mine. CHOCOLATE! CHOCOLATE?! Yea. I love it. And I'm starting to save up (oh I've also developed a table listing what I've spent, how much I took out, and what I have left for the month and what I want or need) for all the chocolate in the world to bring home. I dunno how I'll live. Godiva might not even do. Oh man and Hersheys. I never want to eat that crap again. It's disgusting. Just thinking about it makes me want to puke.

computttter

I don't have my computer with me so, I can't show you the billions of pictures I've taken. I mean, the billions of AMAZING pictures I've taken. So, on this foreign computer, I can't really show you much. Here's two. From our hike. In the alps.

September 29

Today we went to do touristy things. Something I'm not fond of but, I'm doing all that I can here so, of course I went. Well, it wasn't nearly as exciting as the Matterhorn in Disneyland but, I wasn't expecting it to be, so all's well. Mmm I did have a delicious cinnamon-banana-chocolate-sugar-coconut crepe. My favorite, you see. The only thing is, they wrap the crepes so they're rectangular, put them on a plate and leave you with a plastic fork and knife. This is so stupid because crepe places hardly ever have chairs and when you get one, you usually are in the midst of walking around. So, I had to stare at this delicious, warm crepe for like ten minutes before I actually got to eat it. Imagine my intense frustration.

Me, currently:

1.I'm currently obsessed with my ipod (thank you mom) and have been listening to it every second I can. Hopefully my computer will be fixed (it's with my host cousin right now. He's a hella sweet guy. He has great piercings and his ears are gaged (sp?) I want to do that but not as intense) so I can get all my music and have the beautiful album cover flow like I desire. That'd be great.

2.I'm currently setting out for two things. One is I want the ultimate swiss army knife and the ultimate watch. The swiss army knife will probably just be completely normal, but it wil be ultimate in my eyes. And the watch....will probably be hella expensive so, I'm saving up for it and buying it as a christmas/birthday gift to myself. I want a beautful pocket watch and although that's as inconvinient as watches can get (there's even some on swiss army knives), but I'm set on it so it's mine.

2.MOMMY: let me tell you my plans of my return. I currrently want to get a bunny. He can be old and fat and black (yay!) and definitely rescued. I want an animal I can take with me everywhere and share adventures with. I don't want him to sit around like they do in pet shops. He can even have my closet (which is a luxury room for him). I'll let him outside on my watch so mean animals don't eat him. And I'll feed him and pay for everything. It'll be easier than having Marney, that's for sure. I hope the puppies don't eat him. That's make me sad and grossed out. Think of the adventures we'll have! Okay, I'm sure you're thinking that this phase will pass (like having a wallabye-though that didn't pass, it was just unrealistic) and maybe it will but that's alright. Actually, I don't think so. But, I know you'll love him dearly because we can carry him everywhere in our bags. Like the pups when they were actually pups. I even have a name picked out for him already. Several if the latter because mysteriously undesirable.

September 28

Last weekend was intense backpacking in the alps. This weekened was intense monster biking down the alps. And holey moley. It was so freaking amazing. I like adventure so, of course I sped down the mountain as fast as I deemed safe, which wasn't alsways safe. There were a lot of twists and turns. Your arms are shaking because of the severely uneven path (rocks) and your hands are freezing so, I wore gloves. Well, at one point I my arms and hands were shaking so much and they wouldn't hold the break well. I thought I was going to die (not actually) but, it was scary. Luckily, my yearn to live came through and here I am. Anyways, I would've done that all day. Ohhh night. At one point there was a tunnel and at another the path was so thin and unstable. Luckily someone was infront of me for that part so I couldn't speed through it. So, thankfully I'll be in this beautiful town for a week because we have two weeks of fall break in October. Next week Catherine is going to Tunisia, so I think I'll just hang out with friends or something. That should be fun, I think.

On wed. our Grandmother came over to make us crepes and applesauce. It was delicious. I thought I should mention that seeing as it was a really important event.

September 23nd

I was a bit more nervous for today than yesterday. Well, I come to class late and surprise surprise. No French. And later, no drawing. Instead we had something (I have no idea what, but the teacher was a bitch. She was acting like I was the first exchange student in the world to come to a country where I don't speak the language well) and Math. Ugg. Today was good, though. For some reason, I feel like a dog (who called me that? Franz-Joseph? I don't remember.) because I developed a sort of fondness and loyalty for the first person who 'took me in.'

I spoke a bit more German than before and learned a lot. Today was also Catherine's birthday so there was a family gathering which was pretty cool. My favorite part was when I actually carried on a conversation with Astrid, my host-mom. Luckily, I got into the 'German flow' today, which was so great. In class, I don't understand any German. Okay, a little bit, but what's even more disconcerting, is the fact that everyone speaks Swiss-German. Even in the class, though they're not really supposed to. Swiss German is a completely different language, though. German-speakers can not understand it at all. It's amazing. I hope I learn it.

It's fairly aggravating because sometimes people talk to me very slowly and loudly like I'm deaf. It's like first of all, I took four weeks of German and second of all, despite what you may think, putting one minute intervals in-between words while practically yelling them does not help. I swear I'll understand it better when you say it five times faster. This just makes me feel retarded and dislike you. And, 'say something' really doesn't work, I've discovered. Or 'tell me what you know.' There's really no way I can tell you my entire German vocabulary over the course of a minute. No way.

Oh and when people left the house, tonight, there was a little porcupine scurrying across the way! Apparently they're wild here. It was amazing and I took some pictures.

September 22nd

Today was a day that lame and cheesy people would put a golden star next to their entry about the day. Although I try not to be lame and cheesy, I know I am sometimes. So, my very first day of school was filled with the usual long pauses and awkwardness. And laughs at my terrible German. But, only once because I didn't talk in German that much . . . When I walked in to the first class of the day (English) there was a sign that said 'Welcome Maxene.' It was so great. And immediately a girl introduced herself to me and asked me to sit next to her. Everyone was so nice.

It's really nerve-racking though, because people can (and have) talk about me in Swiss-German and I won't understand a thing. Unless, of course you say 'carrots' or 'cabinet' or 'butt'.

Today I was locked out of my house. I forgot my key for the first time. So, I sat outside, writing for about forty-five minutes when I decided I had enough and I sent a SMS to my host-mother. The first person to arrive at the house would be an hour later, so I decided to bike around. It was really nice, actually. I went up to the pet store and looked at the little critters. It depressed me to see them all locked up in cages. When I have a bunny, it will have my whole house and yard to explore, I swear. So, all the cute little bunnies and gerbils and birds and such were in little cages. Oh I saw the cutest bunny. His ears were long and hung down and he was fat and black. I loved him immediately. So what do you do when you love a critter? Name it. Yes. Although, that name is pretty much reserved for my future bunny so, it wasn't actually legit. Anyways they were nothing compared to the pathetic turtle I saw. It was the most depressing by far. I was in the store for a good fifteen minutes, looking back and forth across the small room the carried animals. All around in the turtle's cage were wood chips. All except for one area. This area lay in the corner were the turtle persistently walked into. Over, and over, and over. Never going anywhere, just pushing himself into the corner of the cage. Occasionally, he'd take a break, then go at it even harder than before. I knelt down before his cage and knocked on it lightly before whispering to him that there was no use. He actually turned his little critter head to me and 'looked' at me. Then, he turned his body around, making me think I was a critter-psychic and miraculously got through to him, but sure enough, he turned back around and carried where he left off. And, that's where I left him.

September 20th and 21st

We went hiking in the alps. It was incredible and incredibly painful. What was said to be a three hour hike turned into a seven hour hike, and I'd say a good four-five of those hours were uphill. Imagine a winding pathway with an uneven rocks to lead you the way. It was intense and incredibly difficult. There was also a ton of fog. We stayed in this hut with sweet bunk beds. This is the second time I've slept in over-sized bunk beds. It was fun. The next day was great, though. I mostly hiked down by myself which was incredibly. I kept stopping to take pictures or stare at flowers and cool rocks. That day, I got asked a lot if I was okay. I was fine, I assure you. Then, we took this train that at one point, is completely vertical. It was intense. On the way back home, we ate pommefrites and shnitzel (sp?) which was oh my yum. Oh, and ice cream named after Denmark. I don't know why, though.

I took a lot of pictures but, I'm too lazy to put them up. It takes forever. Molly's way better at that then me. Maybe tomorrow? I don't know

September 21st

Today was a day that lame and cheesy people would put a golden star next to their entry about the day. Although I try not to be lame and cheesy, I know I am sometimes. So, my very first day of school was filled with the usual long pauses and awkwardness. And laughs at my terrible German. But, only once because I didn't talk in German that much . . . When I walked in to the first class of the day (English) there was a sign that said 'Welcome Maxene.' It was so great. And immediately a girl introduced herself to me and asked me to sit next to her. Everyone was so nice. 

September 19th

I wonder what the largest number of calories I've devoured in one day. Seriously, just inquiring. I assume it's not so small...

Well, today was not like any other. Again, I had to say goodbye to someone dear to me (though only for a month. But, it's weird when we spend five days a week glued at the waist). But, what was even worse, when we were hugging and saying goodbye at the train station (classic) I tried to think of some words of wisdom I could say to her. The chosen was quite obvious, and I thought, very wise. 'Stay Gold.' I told her. Unfortunately, Molly hadn't read or really heard of 'The Outsiders' so, you can see how that failed . . . miserably. We had a few heartfelt moments today, actually. SO, today we went to Basel with our class. I live really close to Basel, and Gonz-gonz lives in it, so we thought it was dumb to go to Olten when we could save sleep and tiredness and just go to Basel. Well . . . poor communication. I finally decided that the fault is Molly's because she's lacking a cell phone. Yea. So, we get there and wait for people. Only three come out. Apparently, the dumb teacher (Sara) said that they had to pay twelve francs instead of using their free ticket, because that one came a bit later (like ten or so minutes). So, they didn't wait. It took us a while but, we finally got to the museum (where we spent a good 5 minutes in). I frantically searched for Molls, asking someone with a familiar face whenever I got the chance. And then, I saw her face. 'MOLLY!' I yelled with my arms flailing about. 'MAX!' She cried. We ran into each other's arms (we relish the fact that neither of us are particularly fond of 'goodbye' hugs) so happy we could cry. We said of how much we missed each other, and how scared and lost we were with out each other. It was terrible. I miss Molly. Luckily we'll see each other soon, so it lacked  the tears as some possessed in the past. 

This weekend is hiking in the Alps! So excited. A lot of pictures will be taken. 

FOOD: I eat a lot here. And it's difficult for my body to process all of it, I think, because it's so intense. Bread, cheese and chocolate. Really, that's all I eat. Well, you could definitely take out cheese and it would be so accurate. This morning: Nutella with bread (no, not bread with Nutella. Hey. Nutella would be a cool girl's name) and frosty sugar flakes. During our day in Basel, we devoured (Molly and I. Two other pieces were unwillingly and grudgingly given away) our usual trip-bar of honey chocolate. Nom nom nom. Lunch was a sandwich with meat (meat could replace cheese, if you wish). For a snack I had chocolate-bread and for dinner I had a billion sorts of cheese with bread, and garlic bread and salad on the side. After, I snuck a piece of chocolate to fill the gap between dessert. For desert it was this really good chocolate mousse? And then another piece of chocolate. But don't worry, I won't get morbidly obese .

My Days

Our class. We laugh a lot.

I'm so excited and surprised by all the chocolate. Just...wow...chocolate. Oh man. 

We got to ride scooters in an awesome museum in Luzern. Pretty efficient way to get around.

On my way to Olten. I see this times a million
Luzern. Erkka (Finnland) and Molly (Nebraska)

Molly's Pencil. 

September 18

Sometimes class is so boring I want to shoot myself. This is only with our second teacher, though. And though today was our last, this was no exception. Our regular teacher is so adorable. Seriously. He plays classical music and sometimes sings along with it. He also encouraged us to teach him Simon Says and 'The Hokey Pokey' (which, I have to say, failed). So, today, all I did was think about my worries and daydream about the problems amplifying themselves. It was horrifying. Luckily, Molly unintentionally cheered me up, which brings me to a point we sorta realized today. How are we going to manage without each other? We both sorta 'get' everything we mean right away and laugh at terrible puns and funny American stuff that no one else gets (which makes it even more hilarious). This will be the third time this month I have to start over and make new friends, only this time it's real. Haha. All the others were fake. Okay, not really but it was different. we had something especially in-common with each other. Now, it's just me and the swiss people. Whatever. I'll manage. 

Molly has a funny pencil. She found it at her grandparents house. In bold it says 'Extasy' then on the second line 'Exotic Lingerie and Adult Novelties' and third 'Home Parties.' Just incase anyone finds this more enthralling and desirable than funny, here's the number (though please don't bother to tell me) '816-312-2796.' The top of this red pencil has white hair and a face with a cute little yellow bow-tie. 

Ugg. I can't figure out pictures. Everything is in German. 

I have to say, Switzerland is the most beautiful country I've been to. So many hills. All the towns are in at the foot of the hills, so the hills completely surround them. They're covered with forest-green trees so that every patch of land in that area lies completely concealed. And they're such a beautiful green. It's nice to actually be able to see them. They're not hidden by houses or anything. Just the way they are and I like that. The only thing I'm intensely worried about is the weather. It's 8 degrees (Celsius, of course. Don't be stupid) and it gets so much colder. I can't handle that. I think it's already to cold. So, I think I'm going to die. Sorry. But, the cold is very strange. It's sorta... 'frosty'? Like, even if it's not too cold, you can still see your breath. It's hard to explain, but it's just different. Maybe it's because the air kinda stays in one place. It's not at all near an ocean (weird for me) and hills surround it so wind is scarce.