Bon Jour! I am headed to Brussels Central Station to board a train to Njimegen (I know I spelled it incorrectly.) This is a town/city in Holland, where I will switch to a bus to go to Kleve, Germany to see some church friends/family. Another adventure, indeed! And I am looking forward to it.
Again did not really have a 'dinner' last night, as I was not terribly hungry. Did get a large pack of fries (these were greasy and not as good as the original ones I got a few days ago.)
I walked more yesterday then Friday and Saturday combined, but I saw a lot. (I just accidentally wrote that I saw a log, and I had to erase the "g" and input a "t". Went to Mass at the Cathedral, saw the peeing statue, saw the African neighborhood, the Parliament, the poor neighborhood, the contrast between uptown and downtown, and the serene environment of a city having a large majority of shops and restaurants closed on Sunday.
I\m heading out!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Difficult to Sleep
For those of you who have stayed in hostels, you are probably aware that it is sometimes difficult to sleep. My room has six people in it, which is not bad considering I have stayed in hostels with 10 or more people.
Last night, I was nearby the hostel so I came by to pee pee for free (no pay!) I made the mistake of leaving my room key card on my bed. I was only in the room for about two minutes and left, realizing I locked my key card inside. I could not leave the building or I would be locked out. And I did not yet want to be that guy who wakes up his roommates. So I waited for perhaps 15 minutes trying to decide what to do, and thankfully a guy who works here let me into the room. Whew! This was around 10:00 p.m. when I was going to go for an hour walk, but after that incident I just stayed in.
It was difficult for me to sleep because I was not tired and I slept in until 12 noon the day before. Not to mention, people like to enjoy themselves, which sometimes means consuming a tasty beverage or engaging in another party-ous activity. One person returned around midnight, and two more returned around 2:00 a.m. And these hostel rooms have a motion-sensored light in the bathroom area, but the sensor is so strong that virtually any movement in the room turns it on. Needless to say, the room was bright!
No worries, mate. I am here to enjoy myself, and that I shall. It is now 9:13 a.m. and I will venture for a walk before going to the 11:30 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral. Many more things to see, and I am choosing to navigate Brussels by foot with my trusty map in hand. There is a subway system, but there is so much to see by foot.
I guess that is it for now, as I type on the computer with free internet access and an American keyboard that has keys that you literally have to punch. Have a wonderful day!
Last night, I was nearby the hostel so I came by to pee pee for free (no pay!) I made the mistake of leaving my room key card on my bed. I was only in the room for about two minutes and left, realizing I locked my key card inside. I could not leave the building or I would be locked out. And I did not yet want to be that guy who wakes up his roommates. So I waited for perhaps 15 minutes trying to decide what to do, and thankfully a guy who works here let me into the room. Whew! This was around 10:00 p.m. when I was going to go for an hour walk, but after that incident I just stayed in.
It was difficult for me to sleep because I was not tired and I slept in until 12 noon the day before. Not to mention, people like to enjoy themselves, which sometimes means consuming a tasty beverage or engaging in another party-ous activity. One person returned around midnight, and two more returned around 2:00 a.m. And these hostel rooms have a motion-sensored light in the bathroom area, but the sensor is so strong that virtually any movement in the room turns it on. Needless to say, the room was bright!
No worries, mate. I am here to enjoy myself, and that I shall. It is now 9:13 a.m. and I will venture for a walk before going to the 11:30 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral. Many more things to see, and I am choosing to navigate Brussels by foot with my trusty map in hand. There is a subway system, but there is so much to see by foot.
I guess that is it for now, as I type on the computer with free internet access and an American keyboard that has keys that you literally have to punch. Have a wonderful day!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Orange Windbreaker
I knew that I really did not like the smell of smoke or what smells like pot. And I really do not like it. Walking around the busy streets, that unpleasant smell is around. Ah! I try to walk faster and pass those people, but then run into someone else who is puffing away.
Today I walked what I believe is east from my hostel. I wandered toward the Arc (a smaller version of the Arc d'Triumphe in Paris.) As I walked, of course I saw many things - stores, a few museums, gardens, but did not stop at many of those. I took pictures of random things - construction signs, car company emblems/logos, etc. I tried the frites (fries) in Belgium. I had mine with Brazil sauce (do not know what it was but it was tasty!) Many people, including the French, like fries with mayonaise. Ick. Ick ick. Ick ick ick. I also had a delicous waffle from a truck/cart/van, as many people were doing.
It is close to 9:30 p.m. here and I will venture out for a short bit, to see the surrouding area at night and get a little food. My plan tomorrow is to go to a Mass at the Cathedral (I cannot remember what language will be spoken but it is not Engish), and then go on a few of these self-guided tours and visit a few cool places.
More pay for pee pee. Not cool.
'twas chilly today...felt like about 55 degrees. I had on a t-shirt and a windbreaker and brought a long-sleeve shirt with me just in case. Granted it was chilly, but because I was walking I could not put on another layer without sweating and overheating.
French indeed is a romantic language. Ah. I could get used to that.
I am closer to finishing "The Eyes of the Dragon" and hopefully will finish it on the next two train trips I take. (I originally planned to finish it before coming to Europe.)
I went for a run this morning! This is my second ever international run. My first was the Berlin Marathon on September 26, 2010. Today I ran about three miles and it was nice except for the fact that I had not eaten (which was why I did not run more) and did not want to over do it.
Everyone tells me I have to try the beer here. As you all know, I am not a drinker of sorts, so it will surprise me if I have one. Perhaps I should just ask to taste test it, because that would be enough for me. Free alcohol exists on the international flight. Yes, "free" considering it was included in the price of the airline ticket.
The windbreaker I wore today was the orange one my family bought for me. Sure, it makes me stand out in a crowd, but it is orange!
Today I walked what I believe is east from my hostel. I wandered toward the Arc (a smaller version of the Arc d'Triumphe in Paris.) As I walked, of course I saw many things - stores, a few museums, gardens, but did not stop at many of those. I took pictures of random things - construction signs, car company emblems/logos, etc. I tried the frites (fries) in Belgium. I had mine with Brazil sauce (do not know what it was but it was tasty!) Many people, including the French, like fries with mayonaise. Ick. Ick ick. Ick ick ick. I also had a delicous waffle from a truck/cart/van, as many people were doing.
It is close to 9:30 p.m. here and I will venture out for a short bit, to see the surrouding area at night and get a little food. My plan tomorrow is to go to a Mass at the Cathedral (I cannot remember what language will be spoken but it is not Engish), and then go on a few of these self-guided tours and visit a few cool places.
More pay for pee pee. Not cool.
'twas chilly today...felt like about 55 degrees. I had on a t-shirt and a windbreaker and brought a long-sleeve shirt with me just in case. Granted it was chilly, but because I was walking I could not put on another layer without sweating and overheating.
French indeed is a romantic language. Ah. I could get used to that.
I am closer to finishing "The Eyes of the Dragon" and hopefully will finish it on the next two train trips I take. (I originally planned to finish it before coming to Europe.)
I went for a run this morning! This is my second ever international run. My first was the Berlin Marathon on September 26, 2010. Today I ran about three miles and it was nice except for the fact that I had not eaten (which was why I did not run more) and did not want to over do it.
Everyone tells me I have to try the beer here. As you all know, I am not a drinker of sorts, so it will surprise me if I have one. Perhaps I should just ask to taste test it, because that would be enough for me. Free alcohol exists on the international flight. Yes, "free" considering it was included in the price of the airline ticket.
The windbreaker I wore today was the orange one my family bought for me. Sure, it makes me stand out in a crowd, but it is orange!
- I just wanted to insert a bullet here.
Friday, June 24, 2011
European Trains Rule!
I am in Koln, Germany! I flew into Frankfurt this morning and was headed to Brussels by train. I arrived earlier than expected but followed the plan of taking a train from Frankfurt Airport to the main Frankfurt Train Station, and then getting on the train to Koln. However, because I caught an earlier train, I had to take a train back to the Airport and then connect in Koln, where I am waiting for 3.5 hours because the second portion of my trip was a special ticket that is not changeable. Oh well.
"Life is GREAT" -GB
I will try to post a few updates on mz blog as time goes on. Sunday into Monday is still not yet planned, but I have some ideas.
The trains here are all electric, have automatic doors, have electronic marquees telling you the next station, are very smooth, etc. I could live on one of these trains. I do of course love Amtrak, but a few upgrades could get Amtrak at least to be close to the European trains. I have not been on Acela, but I would think that it compares to Europes moderate level trains. It is truly a nice ride (today) on the Deutsche Bahn.
I do not like the idea of pay for peepee. Some places are free, but why should you have to pay to exercise a normal and required action of the body?
Martin, I still cannot grasp this German computer keyboard. Many of the keys are in the same place, but a few are different and the characters are all over the place. I guess I could just learn German to make it easier, but then you would not be able to understand me.
Thanks, family, for my blue carry-on roller duffle bag. Though I always have trouble (but manage) to fit 7-12 days of clothes and stuff into it, it makes traveling easier, less painful on the shoulders and neck, and much simpler.
Thanks, Kim, for the strict advice/warning before I left about being "on vacation" and living life to the fullest.
Thanks to all of you who have in some way made (and continue to make) a difference in my life.
Not One Love, but Many Loves (to all of you)
"Life is GREAT" -GB
I will try to post a few updates on mz blog as time goes on. Sunday into Monday is still not yet planned, but I have some ideas.
The trains here are all electric, have automatic doors, have electronic marquees telling you the next station, are very smooth, etc. I could live on one of these trains. I do of course love Amtrak, but a few upgrades could get Amtrak at least to be close to the European trains. I have not been on Acela, but I would think that it compares to Europes moderate level trains. It is truly a nice ride (today) on the Deutsche Bahn.
I do not like the idea of pay for peepee. Some places are free, but why should you have to pay to exercise a normal and required action of the body?
Martin, I still cannot grasp this German computer keyboard. Many of the keys are in the same place, but a few are different and the characters are all over the place. I guess I could just learn German to make it easier, but then you would not be able to understand me.
Thanks, family, for my blue carry-on roller duffle bag. Though I always have trouble (but manage) to fit 7-12 days of clothes and stuff into it, it makes traveling easier, less painful on the shoulders and neck, and much simpler.
Thanks, Kim, for the strict advice/warning before I left about being "on vacation" and living life to the fullest.
Thanks to all of you who have in some way made (and continue to make) a difference in my life.
Not One Love, but Many Loves (to all of you)
Monday, June 13, 2011
Fundraising for Team for Kids & the 2011 ING New York City Marathon
What better way to suffer through 26.2 miles of two-stepping (people have two feet and they take steps) through New York? How about running with a charity?
Team for Kids is a group that aims to increase activity, education, and health among children. By putting together programming and other activities, Team for Kids is trying to combat childhood obesity and emphasize the importance of being active. As an active kid and currently an active adult, I know how necessary it is because of its positive impact on your mind, body, and spirit. That is why I am excited to run with Team for Kids.
To participate in the New York Marathon, I must raise $2,620.00 ($100 per mile), and so far I have raised $895.00. If you are able to donate any amount, I truly appreciate it! The donations are tax deductible and may be made through my fundraising page at: http://www.runwithtfk.org/Member/PublicPage/3936. You may also join me on Sunday, November 6, to cheer me on or pass me a Red Bull (I probably would not drink it but may consume it after the race).
Life is all about adventures, love, and happiness. This is my journey.
Team for Kids is a group that aims to increase activity, education, and health among children. By putting together programming and other activities, Team for Kids is trying to combat childhood obesity and emphasize the importance of being active. As an active kid and currently an active adult, I know how necessary it is because of its positive impact on your mind, body, and spirit. That is why I am excited to run with Team for Kids.
To participate in the New York Marathon, I must raise $2,620.00 ($100 per mile), and so far I have raised $895.00. If you are able to donate any amount, I truly appreciate it! The donations are tax deductible and may be made through my fundraising page at: http://www.runwithtfk.org/Member/PublicPage/3936. You may also join me on Sunday, November 6, to cheer me on or pass me a Red Bull (I probably would not drink it but may consume it after the race).
Life is all about adventures, love, and happiness. This is my journey.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
I moved!
Friends,
I have a new mailing address! Contact me for details.
I have had a rough week. Not bad. Just very tiring. With moving and not taking time off from work, there leaves little time for rest. Of course I did not slow down by continuing to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity in between my two trips to the new place, going to a party later, and not spending much time relaxing. I finally bought sheets last night that fit the bed, so I am one step further to... somewhere.
Now I have to decide if I will leave tomorrow morning or Thursday morning for Boston, ultimately to see my sister happily receive her Law degree.
I have a new mailing address! Contact me for details.
I have had a rough week. Not bad. Just very tiring. With moving and not taking time off from work, there leaves little time for rest. Of course I did not slow down by continuing to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity in between my two trips to the new place, going to a party later, and not spending much time relaxing. I finally bought sheets last night that fit the bed, so I am one step further to... somewhere.
Now I have to decide if I will leave tomorrow morning or Thursday morning for Boston, ultimately to see my sister happily receive her Law degree.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Busy Weekend
It rained on Saturday. Many people do not like the rain. I usually do not mind it. I did my usual volunteering with Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County, MD on Saturday. I did not feel as productive this time, but perhaps that is because we were told that it would be a short day anyways. Then I went to check out a new apartment.
It rained briefly on Sunday. God is good, as it started raining hard just after I boarded the Metro. Then it stopped just as I was getting off of the Metro. This was all after I had a fun time at a friend's party and right before I was going to meet up with my co-local ambassador and our Atlas Corps fellow. Unfortunately, the fellow did not show up, but it was still good to talk amongst the two of us.
Apparently I find good deals on flights, rental cars, and sometimes hotels. If anyone needs a personal "travel agent" feel free to contact me. I cannot guarantee anything other than the fact that "Life is GREAT!" (GB), but I may be able to find you a good deal.
Magnificent Monday to all of you!
It rained briefly on Sunday. God is good, as it started raining hard just after I boarded the Metro. Then it stopped just as I was getting off of the Metro. This was all after I had a fun time at a friend's party and right before I was going to meet up with my co-local ambassador and our Atlas Corps fellow. Unfortunately, the fellow did not show up, but it was still good to talk amongst the two of us.
Apparently I find good deals on flights, rental cars, and sometimes hotels. If anyone needs a personal "travel agent" feel free to contact me. I cannot guarantee anything other than the fact that "Life is GREAT!" (GB), but I may be able to find you a good deal.
Magnificent Monday to all of you!
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