PART 2: Christmas Markets, Cookie Baking, Santa’s Workshop, and so longggg.

German Christmas Market

While in Germany, I went to not one, but TWO Christmas markets. The first market was VERY large – it was actually so awesome. My only complaint was that my stomach hurt a bit.

Baking Cookies

WHOOOHOOOP. OK. I am NOT a baker, right? I am the type of baker that puts salt in instead of sugar or who forgets to add the flour. Also, the directions were in Dutch, and it was a different oven than I am used to. There were time limits as well since we were trying to go to Christian’s farm. I felt like I was in the Great British Bake Off. I was managing cookies in the oven while preparing icing while cutting new cookies etc. It was slightly crazy.

The first batch of cookies just was wrong. I am still not sure why. I ACTUALLY followed the recipe (I think at least). Here are some photos.

I rang my friend Juliette, who actually knows how to bake. She told me it probably needed more flour and sugar, so I added a BUNCH of both, and I SSAVEDDD the cookies!!! Here are the new photos:)

Santa’s Workshop

Mister Real Life Santa became even MORE of a Real Life Santa when we got to tour his farm! The previous owner of this farm had no children of his own, but he did have a Christian. Both Christian and his father went and worked on the man’s farm, helping to maintain and restore it. They also helped the older man when he became ill in his later years. When he passed, the farm was passed onto Christian.

ADDED NOTE! Sylvia sent me the history of Christian’s farm if your interested in reading more! Click Here

Leaving?

Alas, I am (have already left) Germany. While I know I could have experienced many wonderful things in this quaint Bavarian town, I also have recognized a few things.

1. I have limited Schegan days. Non-EEA nationals cannot spend more than a total of 90 days within a total period of 180 days without a visa in Schegan Countries. As much as I enjoyed Bavaria, I also have spent a lot of time recently in smaller towns with lots of natural landscapes. It is truly stunning, but I also want the cultural experiences with bigger cities. I also miss the accessibility to things like a climbing gym, church, jam sessions for musicians, etc.
2. I miss being among young people and meeting lots of people. When I stayed in the hostels in Prague and Scotland, I had such a wonderful time meeting new people every day. Most people know I am the queen of small-talk. I live for it. I can easily chit-chat people all day everyday, and hostel life is kind of perfect for that. I think that my farm-stays were really really important in practicing slowing down and spending time alone. I am hopeful to take those lessons with me and implement ways to live slower even in a busy situation.

3. I REALLY want to practice my Spanish:) I was offered a volunteer job in a hostel, so …here I go to Barcelona !!!