Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag!

Yesterday marked both my Mom’s birthday and our friend Marie’s 18^th Geburtstag.  Since we could not celebrate with my Mom (we will next month:), the girls and I decided to celebrate with Marie last evening.  Marie watches the girls for a few hours every week and has become someone very special to our family here in Germany.  It is interesting how in life, with every new journey, I have met some very special people (I have not seen my Eau Claire friend Larissa since 2007 and YET- we email almost every other week). 

This fall, I was constantly visiting the Apotheke (a.k.a. in the USA Pharmacy) due to Elle’s continual ear infections.  Since I was a “regular” in the Apotheke, Marie’s mother, Linde (Linda) shared with me that her 17-year old daughter was great with children and would enjoy watching Elle & Britta for a few hours every week.  I had a lot of respect for Linde so I thought it would be nice to have a “German Lisa.”  We had Marie over and the rest is history…from day one, we knew she was a compassionate, intelligent and fun young woman- someone the girls would love.

Marie turned 18 years old yesterday; turning 18 is a huge German birthday.  At 18, a person can vote, buy hard alcohol (they can buy beer at age 16) and most importantly DRIVE a motored vehicle.  Marie said that driving to school was hands down the best part of her birthday, finally having the independence to drive solo.  At her party she shared with us that she had been to the grocery store 4 times that day for her Mom just so she could drive:).  Marie’s party started mid-afternoon and went into the wee hours of the night.  In Germany, it does not matter what day of the week your birthday falls, you always celebrate on your actual birthday.  Marie’s maternal grandmother even took the train for 4 hours to get there (but she does this every other week to visit).  Last evening, Marie was surrounded by friends, neighbors, and family!  It was a great party!  And though we only new a Marie's family and a few other people, everyone was so welcoming and gracious that we had a fun time!

We were happy we could celebrate with her.  Of course we wished we could have celebrated with Nana Becky too, but we thought of her throughout the entire day (even more than usual)!  And, we heard that Papa Donavon even sent her roses to school!!  What girl doesn’t love getting roses:)!!