The German Way

Ok, so I feel that every time I sit down to write it's usually because I'm having a culture clash, and not because I want to rave about how awesome this place is.  All kidding aside, Germany really is a beautiful country.  Despite the arctic winds, the overcast skies, and the fact that smoking is still considered a healthy activity; the area that I am currently living in is gorgeous.  The suburb of Nordenstadt is surrounded by potato fields, apple orchards, and raspberry fields.  There are maples and oaks, green grass, and beautiful gardens and parks.  While working with my daughter today to hang up our wet laundry I looked down at her, having the time of her life might I add, and it hit me.  This way of life, as ridiculous as it may seem to my American sensibility of bigger, better, faster; isn't wrong.  Different isn't wrong.  And as I watched her simply enjoying helping mommy I thought maybe they're on to something here.  I've had more genuine interaction with my daughter in the last 6 weeks performing hands-on tasks than I ever did in the States.  Helping with laundry, drying dishes, walking together to the store, putting away groceries, these are all life skills that she is learning.  Although I wouldn't trade my life in the States for anything, my journey is teaching me that faster isn't always better, and although my hands may be rough and dishpan, I have a real sense of accomplishment at the end of the day.

P.S. - I have a teaching interview tomorrow!  Keep your fingers crossed.