Spoiled Tuesday: The Lion King!

                Goodness me, today was quite the spoiled Tuesday, I’d say. I mean, in work, I still had nothing to do, so I worked on my ASB Site Leader application instead. It’s actually going to be really nice to have that time to focus on a little bit at a time and edit through the week before the deadline. (: After work, I headed straight to… the movies!!! Since I work literally right beside the cinema, I walked over and bought my movie ticket for THE LION KING!!!! If… you can’t tell. I was quite excited. And, I ended up getting the perfect seat. You see, in Poland, you pick your seats. Yes, you are assigned a seat for the show. I like it this way, to be honest. But yeah, it worked out great for me, because most of the first row was still left open. However, the one seat left open in the back was a single, on the very side. Like, it was right before the last row, and just on the edge, which honestly, was perfect for me, since I’m all alone and it’s just more comfortable that way.

                Anyways, I’ll give you more details about my movie going experience in a bit. First off, though, I was hungry, so I went to go get my dinner/lunch at the restaurant in front of Fredro, called “Pod Fredra,” accordingly. My waiter was very nice and explained how in that restaurant you literally pick everything. You don’t order a dish and it comes with random sides. You pick the main part of the dish, a meat or fish, and then add whatever sides you want. So I ended up ordering kiełbasa and kopytka. And honestly, it was wonderful. Really really good. The kiełbasa was that thick heavy, somewhat oily taste, while the kopytka were that good kind of bland to even out the kiełbasa. I think I’ll go there again; great service, great Polish traditional music, and good food. Plus, pretty interior… And I’d like to try some of their other dishes… Perhaps… maybe even rabbit. Or duck. I know, guys. Way out in left field for me, haha. I just recently came to like pork and beef. It sucks eating alone now, though… It’s so much more pleasant to have someone to chat with while waiting for food, and over dinner, and afterwards, instead of just being like… I’m… leaving immediately, haha. I was going to order their szarlotka, but… I was quite full, actually. Which surprised me, because my order came out on this enormous dish, and it looked so… empty. So when I came towards the end of my meal I was like, huh… I’m actually full. Damnit, the szarlotka sounded good too! Argh! Perhaps an afternoon treat later in the week. Although, I really did go all out today…

                Because after dinner/lunch (I call it that because I again didn’t have lunch at work, but with reason; I had leftover pizza for breakfast and that really held me over well), but yes, afterwards, I headed to Empik! Ahhhh! Awesome Polish book store. Seriously, so awesome. I don’t know what about it I love, but I just do. I ended up finally buying some postcards (shhhh…) and… andandand. Seriously, guys, super excited about this. I bought… get ready for it, ready… A POLISH ACADEMIC PLANNER! :DDD Ahhh! … I know I’m really lame for getting as excited as I am about it, but I really have wanted one since last year when I was in Poland, and it’s just going to help me further confirm my Polish months and days. Although, I’m surprised; within this past year I’ve actually gotten a good handle on the months and days, and last year I was struggling! Still. It’s really awesome, because in the back, it has colored maps of all sorts of European countries and their divisions! And then a time table! And and and… All sorts of awesome things. And it’s a day by day sort of planner, so I don’t have to squeeze everything I need to do into one third of a page. Which is GREAT! Since I tend to ramble. A lot. (As you have most certainly noticed through these blog entries.) I was really tempted to buy some Polish magazine as well for more leisure reading… That or the European flag, again…

                I also spent my time in Rynek looking at all the souvenir shops, comparing post card prices and looking for flags. At one shop, I saw these awesome Polish bracelets! I mean, a legit sort of thread-on-metal bracelet which wouldn’t really lose its colors or words, like my rubber Polish ones did. I have a good feeling I’ll end up buying one… I might also buy a Polish magnet for my mini fridge… Well, a Wrocław one, since I have a Polish one… I asked one shop what kind of flags they had, and she only had the older Wrocław flag. Dx Much sadness. And since I was running out of time, I couldn’t go search more. But I will end up getting a Wrocław flag. Maybe an EU flag. It would certainly be appropriate. Though, I’d prefer a Solidarność flag first. Although, to be honest, I have no clue where in the hell I would buy that. Oh! In this same shop, I saw this adorable pepper and salt shaker set. It was a heart, one half red, the other white, one being salt, the other pepper, one saying Polska (or Poland?) and the other having I think the Polish eagle on it. … I’m going back and buying it tomorrow. I mean, it’s not one of those things where it’s like, oh that’s cool. I genuinely fell in love with it. It’s just so me, and I mean, I’m going to need it wherever I live now! What better way than to further express my pride obnoxiously to all of my guests?!? :D (Oh gosh, I have a feeling everyone’s going to get super annoyed with all my bursting pride and constant comparisons whenever I come back.)

                That actually reminds me. I signed up on Couch Surfing today! Which should be super interesting… Because maybe I’ll meet some people that way more easily. And it seems like fun, considering that people who travel usually click together well. So hopefully something comes from that.

                Anyways, after that, I headed toward the theatre. I walked in and was a little awed by the set up, and also reminded of the set up from the last time that I went to the movies in Poland (6 years ago in ’05!). So I started taking pictures… Little did I know you’re not supposed to take pictures… Whoops. I don’t… quite understand why not. A concession stand girl came up and asked me if I had a pass, and I quickly apologized and didn’t know I wasn’t allowed to take pictures. Still, don’t understand why… If it’s a matter of stealing the floor plan, I’ll be honest. Any professional artist could easily be hired and sketch it away quickly, or well… just remember it, or visit a lot. *shrugs* Oh well. As I said, I spoiled myself. I bought a bag of candy which I got to assort myself. I got chocolate-covered black currants! (Oh god, I thought I was dreaming; I love black currants.) And lemon, apple, pineapple, and cola jelly beans. All quite good, I’ll say. (: Apple ended up being my favorite, and the chocolate-covered black currants weren’t bad, but they weren’t necessarily something I’d buy again. Still, quite interesting and I’m glad I got them. Then I headed up to the first floor to watch the movie; I looked around on the first floor for my theatre, but I forgot briefly how in Poland, the ground floor is floor zero, and the next floor up is the first floor.

                All of the commercials were animated movie commercials, which was awesome. Because so many times you go to movies and you get an entire mix of commercials, and it’s like, really guys? Why not try and reach out to the crowd in front of you who will likely appreciate other movies in the same genre? Ah well! I noticed something, though. The theatre did not have too many kids in it. This was an 18:30 showing, so, no, it wasn’t too late. It was all couples and adults or at least teenagers, with a minimal number of kids. That made me so happy! People aren’t ashamed of reliving their childhoods! They’ll admit to liking Disney! In fact, as one group of people left, one of them said, “Can we go see it again tomorrow?!” genuinely happy from their experience.

                About the movie, though. I’ll be honest; the 3D obviously wasn’t necessary, though for some parts, it was rather nifty to see the characters sticking out against their backgrounds… But then there were some parts where it was a bit of a mess… That might just be my eye sight. I still would choose “2D” over “3D” in a heartbeat. But, this was worth every cent I paid, because it really just tied my entire life together. My love for Disney, my entire childhood, and my pride for Poland, and my Polish, and the other fact of my childhood. Just all tied together in one. I nearly started crying from happiness when the Circle of Life started playing in Polish. It’s just that important to me. It really was interesting to hear the variations of the words on the songs and how they made them fit the melodies. All of the songs were translated very well, even to tune, except for “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.” Nonetheless, the music actually helped me realize just how much I still need to expand my vocab and understanding of Polish grammar, as well, which is good. God, I love the Lion King. Such an awesome experience. <3 So happy I went!

                Speaking of language, this reminded me of one topic I think I forgot to mention from yesterday! When we were in the café thing, Michał and Ania asked me how I thought, and I answered that it really depends, and that sometimes I do think in Polish. So then they asked how I dream to really get down to the main point, and honestly, I do dream in Polish occasionally. In fact, I will never forget my Kiwanis Leadership Camp experience, ’05, which occurred right after my five week trip to Poland. Well, I guess I’ll never forget the story. Apparently, in the middle of the night, Meggo woke up and heard something, and then she dismissed it by saying, “Oh, it’s just Nell sleep talking in Polish.” I mean, if at that age I was sleep talking in Polish, then I’ve probably had dreams in Polish as well since then, and it just depends. (It’s hard to tell since I can’t remember most of my dreams.) They were shocked, though. I dunno why, but they were.

Oh! And they also asked if my English was weaker since I also grew up learning Polish, and honestly, I can confidently say yes. I don’t care what Dr. Ferguson says. My mom actually told Dr. Ferguson in a conference that English has always been my weakest subject, and Dr. Ferguson dismissed it with the fact that every child has a weakness in school. Yes. Yes, they do. Except every child has something that influences that weakness, as well. My influence was having parents whose native language was not English, and listening to my parents speak in Polish and use Polish grammar. While yes, I wouldn’t notice that consciously, subconsciously, I’d bet you anything, it confused the hell out of my mind while trying to learning grammar. And also, that’s probably why I could never grasp onto the concept of accents either, despite having a good musical ear. Because in Polish, I just found out this year, that every word is accented on the second to last syllable. … And then we have English, which does whatever the hell it wants. Just some subtle things, but enough to make a difference, I’d say. I mean, when I told my uncle I always had difficult with the accents part of my vocab tests, he was appalled. He knows I have a good musical ear, so for me it should’ve been a piece of cake to pick up, but I just never could…

Sorry about those tangents! I thought they were interesting notes. So, I stayed until the very end of the credits. They rolled the English credits with Elton John’s song, of course, and at the end they had the addition of the Polish credits, since it had to be dubbed and everything. Nothing special besides that, but I really wanted to soak in the moment. AND! People clapped at the end of the movie! Thank goodness, yes! It’s been a long time since I’ve been in a theatre that clapped at the end of movie, and every time I go to the theatres and people don’t clap, it breaks my heart. It’s like you’re not acknowledging the people who put everything together. The musicians, the artists, the writers, the people who put it all together, everyone. Sure, they don’t know if you clap or not, but it’s just a little bit of appreciation.

Oh, and forever more, Mufasa = kiełbasa. At the portion when Scar is talking to the three hyenas, and Banzai makes some sort of reference to Mufasa and infuriates Scar, the hyena reassures Scar that he said kiełbasa instead of Mufasa. Freakin’ hilarious! And even you non-Polish folk can appreciate that one! But yes… I finally left the movie theatre and headed on home. I stopped at the mini grocery store down from my apartment to get something for breakfast and some snack bars for work, since I was too exhausted to go to an actual grocery store… Which… I really really should do soon… But yes, that was my glorious day, and now, time for sleep! Then off to another relaxing day at work! Haha! Life is good. (:
                P.S. Disney knows how to milk its productions and make money. Oh wellll~ I enjoyed myself! :D

So. Much. Pizza.

                Yesterday was so much fun! :D I mean, work was still slow. No responses, oh well, free time. I didn't eat much, because I knew that I was going to meet up with a friend of mine afterwards! Which was awesome! Although, I must say, I felt very... alone at work yesterday... There was a meeting down the hall that virtually everyone was at. But here I was, sitting in front of the computer, doing nothing... A bit awkward, to be honest. Oh well!
                Onto the fun part! After work, I headed out to Rynek, where I met with my mom's best friend's daughter, in front of Fredro, and her boy. It was really nice to see Ania, especially since she's actually going to Italy for the year to study. So I actually wouldn't have had any other chance to see her! We went to a pizzeria where they get a student discount, but instead we ended up buying two XXL pizza's (the size of a large in the States... ... :/) with the buy one, get one free offer! For quite a reasonable price, actually. We ordered a Mexican pizza and the "La Bella" pizza (olives, bell peppers, ham, and pepperoni). Both were delicious. Even the pizza here is better, gosh. We actually ate nearly all of the pizzas too. Only had three pieces left, one of which some guy off the street came up to us while in the restaurant and asked if he could have a piece, so we gave him it. o_o; I mean, why not? Better than throwing it out. The other two pieces ended up going home with me. 
                But yes, we talked a lot and did a ton of comparisons between the US and Poland. I've sort of noticed that's what most of my conversations have tended to lead towards... Which is understandable, and really fun. At one point, Michał actually ended up asking me what food is better in the States... ... I don't think I answered. I couldn't think of anything. He was like, "Surely there must be something." And I remained quiet in deep thought and really really figured out... nothing, still. Let's see, what are some of the things we talked about. Ah yes, how I ended up coming here, and how the program worked, and what it was like here in Wrocław and what I was expecting in Krakow. Like everyone else, they assured me I would fall even further in love with Krakow, because it's a true university city. Meanwhile, here, I know no one... Although! Ania suggested I check out the website, Couch Surfers, which I knew about already, but she informed me of how it tells you who is in the area that might want to hang out. And usually, traveling people are more willing to meet up, so I might take advantage of that, because my evenings are lonely. Then we also talked about the differences in housing and history, and knowledge and education. How the universities differ, how we still have to go through a general education in college instead of primarily focusing on our major. Which is exactly how it works here. How it costs an arm, a leg, and your future, unborn child to go to college, and here you can go to college for free in the public universities. 
                 We also talked about languages, and how here you learn other languages from preschool, while in the states, I was fortunate to start learning Spanish in elementary school, but the norm is 7th-8th grade. Right before high school. And that's really only if you're on the smarter end of the spectrum, and in high school, you don't really have to work at it. At all. How there's a difference between someone who learns a language at home and has two languages and a language at school, even from childhood. Really, we hit on a ton of interesting topics. Such a pleasant evening. We walked around the square a bit as well, and then we went into a little cafe, where I had some hot chocolate. Which was phenomenal. So chocolatey, but not that gross chocolatey. Just perfect. And I even enjoyed the whipped cream (and that's when I started to wonder if it's just my bias that is influencing all the tastes, or if everything really is just... fresher and more enjoyable food-wise in Poland). Then we left the cafe, and sat in front of Ratusz and talked more about the differences, and how Ania is going to be studying in Italy, and how she likely won't come home except for the important holidays, cause she won't have a need (Michał's reaction to this was amusing). 
                Ah yes, they told me how in Europe, Poland is really a cheap country to visit. And they shared their stories of how in Norway, everything there is so expensive. They lived off of spaghetti during their time their, including for breakfast. I mean, for Norwegians, it's normal, and they're used to it, so it certainly makes sense, especially since they government is on top of taking care of their citizens otherwise. Ania was a bit envious that I can convert everything to USD and see how much money I'm saving, while she said she was nervous about doing that in Italy, because it'll show her how much she's spending. Haha, I don't blame her. Megan (Milam) told me that she felt the exact same thing while spending her time in England. It was intimidating to convert her spendings. I really don't blame them. If that were the case now, I wouldn't either. (But... that's why I came to study in Poland before the Euro! Haha! Win! See, I think things through. A lot.) Oh! We also mentioned the difference in public transportation options in Poland vs. the US. Seriously, lots of interesting topics of comparison.
                 So yes, it was a very very pleasant evening. (: After that, we ended up going to the tram stop, where we found that... about 5-7 trams were waiting in a line... I have yet to see such a back up before, so it was very odd. But at least once they started moving again, it didn't take long for my tram to show up, as it was in the line. :D We said our good byes and went our separate ways. I don't know whether they ended up walking back to their hotel; apparently it was close to Rynek, and it's where a ton of churches are, and gorgeous. So I should probably go visit that part of town soon enough, because Ania mentioned how it was beautiful and peaceful and relaxing. I honestly hope that I can find some people to spend some time with, because that really made the day great. I was exhausted when I got home, as always, and that's ok. Slept well, and this morning, I found out that the Monster Jam wasn't cancelled but just postponed. As in to the 1st of October. A few days after I leave. Lame. Quite some interesting topics in the paper from yesterday. And so excited for this afternoon. I'm going to see The Lion King!!! In 3D, but it's the Lion King no less. I can spoil myself a bit, eh? ;D Hopefully, I won't be too annoyed by the 3D... But it's so going to be worth it.

Baptism and Kids!

                Oh, today was wonderful. <3 Woke up around 8:40 or so, ok-rested. The bed I sleep on at my aunt’s and uncle’s is a little too hard for me, which I should mention next time… Regardless, it was a relaxing morning, a nice breakfast with some nice chat, getting ready and what not to go to my nephew’s baptism! Relaxing minus the fact that I found another infection. Stupid things. Fortunately, it was only one, and my aunt and uncle had proper bandages for me to put on it, so it should be fine. But, once we got ready, we went from Strzelin to Oława by car, stopped in the Rynek in Oława first, and I talked to my aunt a bit about important dates in Polish history, such as the 11^th of November, which was the day Poland was once again an independent country after World War I, and then the 9^th of May, which was another sort of independence day after World War II, although it really varies because it wasn’t all on one day that the war ended. You know how it goes; it was a slow push back of the Germans out of Poland. And then I asked about if there was a day after the Russians finally got the hell out of here and gave up on communism, and it’s really just more of a time period in 1989, around winter time, because of how many meetings and what not. Regardless, it was really interesting. (: Oh, we’re such a hardy people. Although! That reminds me of what my aunt told me last night, which was she really never believed Poland would be where it is today; during that time that communism reigned, people sort of got used to it, and she really didn’t think that it would ever end and things would get better, where Poland would be deciding things on its own. So it’s really interesting how much history has truly progressed. Also interesting to get a point of view like that… then again, my parents obviously had the same view if they left Poland for wherever they could go. They could’ve stayed in Austria, they tried to go to Australia, and ended up in America. I mean, my mom’s grandfather literally told her, “Get out of here, because there is nothing good to come of Poland.” That’s a really powerful thing to say, if you think about it. It just gives a small idea of how those times must’ve been here, and I certainly know they weren’t all that nice, considering the stories my parents and uncle have shared with me.

                Anyways, after our short walk in the Rynek, we waited in a square by the school that my cousin, Agata, went to and completed some important exams. Grzesiek and his family came by foot (you could see their apartment down the street, so that’s no surprise). So we all walked together to the church, met up with Agata in front of the church, without her husband or child, because Tymek ended up falling asleep towards the end of the car ride, so she didn’t want to wake him. Then we walked into the church. And I’ll be honest. My first thought was, “*cuss word* (you can try and guess what it was), I’m going to hell.” And no, that wasn’t a result of the people around me or anything but, I dunno. I just really really don’t feel comfortable in Polish Catholic churches. I think it’s all of the pictures of Jesus and God and everything surrounding me, and understanding Christianity well enough to understand my viewpoint, no matter how much I do to help this world, will end up condemning me to hell.

Oh yes, this was the first time in a long time I’ve really stepped into a church as well. And I think this was actually the first baptism I’ve ever been to as well. But it was cute, watching the parents holding their little tiny babies, and the to-be godparents by them, and going through the ceremony with candles, and I listened to the prayers and what not. So it was certainly interesting, and I was very glad I was there, because yeah, Krzysiek won’t remember it, but it’s still a very important moment in his life. My aunt had to do her best to keep Martyna quiet and a little entertained during this entire baptism. But it didn’t last too long, and there was no kneeling! Just sitting and standing, haha.

Afterwards, though, we ended up going to a restaurant; everyone took a walk, but Adam, Agata’s husband, drove me to the restaurant for the sake of my legs. We got some ice cream since we got there earlier than everyone else; I had some sort of pineapple mixed with some berry, I dunno what, but it was good. More American-like than Polish though, so it wasn’t as good as others I’ve had. :P We didn’t all immediately go to the restaurant, because they wanted to take pictures, but Krzysiek ended up falling asleep on the walk, so we had to wait. So Martyna and Tymon, my niece and nephew, had a ton of fun playing on the playground behind the restaurant. It was really cute, too! Because on the way to the playground, they were holding hands and walking together, with Tymek holding his mom’s hand (Agata). They’re both the same height, but Martyna is 27 months and Tymek is 20 months. Super adorable, though. <3 After a while, Krzysiek woke up, we all took some pictures, and we went back to eat. Had some lovely rosół (soup) to start off with, and then some kluski and chicken and pork and potatoes (of course, the staple), and other little salad choices. The black currant juice was delicious. It was just all very splendid. (: Kryzsiek is such a quiet baby. Agata was sort of jealous of how quiet he was. I mean, he was wide awake, and hardly made a noise while we were all eating and everything. He would sit in people’s arms without much fuss or struggle.

Meanwhile, the older babies, Martyna and Tymek, were constantly running around, so everyone was switching out and about, trying to rest and take care of them, and eat and what not. I ended up going to help my aunt watch over them, and that ended up taking us to the playground, where I helped Tymek on some play set, and eventually, Martyna went to the swing set as well. Where we stayed for what was at least half an hour, swinging her. Two, nearly three other kids went on the swing set during the time she was using it. But oh goodness, it made me feel so special. One time, we tried to take her off, and she got off for a bit, but wanted back on. So my uncle, her grandpa, tried to help her back on. At first she was sitting on it on her chest, and my uncle thought that’s what she wanted, but then she tried to turn and get back on. My uncle tried to help her on, and she was whining and struggling and wouldn’t let him. So I tried to put her back on, and she was so happy. She wanted me to help her back on. :D And another time, she wouldn’t let him lock the chain either, but she let me lock it instead. Super precious. At least for me.

Although, oi vei, was it a bit of a mess trying to get her off. She was whining and wouldn’t dare get off, but another girl wanted to get on, and the other swing was occupied. We had to convince her to leave somehow, telling her let’s go her mom. We started walking back across the playground, she stopped at another play set, where I helped her get up it to go down the slide about five times, and then continued walking. We got to the end of the playground, close to the restaurant, and she started chasing after bicycles. Ah yes, that’s what ended up convincing her to leave the swing set. A bicycle went by. Oh, and every time she heard a train in the distance, she pointed in that direction and sort of whined. (Her cousin, Tymek, speaks more than she does, and she’s seven months older. Mind you, that’s a lot of time difference at their age, as I’m coming to find out.) But yes, we were at the end of the playground, and she started whining more, and we tried to convince her we needed to go back to the restaurant, but oh gosh. She refused. She kept saying, “Leedu leedu! Leedu leedu!” Which I found out meant… swing set. The actual Polish word for swing set? Chósztawka. Yeaaah… If you see some similarity I don’t, please, let me know. … But apparently her dad, my cousin, was the exact same way when he was a baby, so my aunt told me. And, quick tangent on her language ability now. While she refuses to say dziadek, Polish for grandpa, she can say words like upał, the word for a hot day, essentially, ogon, the word for a tail, and dzieńdobry, which is actually quite difficult to say at the age, and ah yes, that means good day, essentially. But she wouldn’t say dziadek or ciocia (aunt). Although, she did say ogon very nicely on the swing set for me. Yes, she got a small round of applause for that.

Anyways, back to leedu leedu. She ended up running off in the direction of the swing set, and my uncle and I just stood and waited, cause I mean, the swing set was far away. She only got about oh. 20 meters away from us, I think? Maybe not even, more like 15, and she stopped and kept staring at us and sobbing and crying and screaming, leedu leedu, and we just waited. It was an experiment, to see how far she would go. Kids really won’t go too far, because well, they’ll get scared if they don’t have someone they know with them. Especially if they see those people aren’t budging to come after them. So she kept crying and crying, and eventually walked back over to us, slowly and somberly. She ended up giving me her hand, but again, not my uncle, and we started walking away, but she started trying to pull away again. So my uncle plopped her off the ground, and carried her back to the restaurant, while she struggled for her dear life and sobbed as if the end of the world was near. Of course, when we got back, everyone asked if she was ok, if she fell, and we were like, nope. It was time for other kids to swing.

Meanwhile, at some points, Tymek ended up having his mom read to him a few times from two little children’s books, while he rested. Of course, that never lasted long, and he ran off as well. Ah yes, I also ended up blowing bubbles for the kids, and they were all excited about it. And they ended up following my example. Most of you guys know how I compromise for my lack of flexibility in my legs, using unusual steps or rails to help pull myself up or step up to higher ground. I ended up doing that to step on a mini platform in the restaurant, to blow bubbles for them, and Tymek jumped off and did the same thing, using the ledge I did. So cute, but at that moment, I realized just how incredibly impressionable these kids are. I mean, for me, this is completely natural; I make use of things people usually don’t think of to help me out, cause I need it. But yes, lots and lots of running around after kids, making sure they’re safe and don’t go off too far, talking and listening to the family I was with, and all sorts of fun. Oh, and overall in the restaurant, there were tons of other kids to play with, so Martyna and Tymek were having a ball, playing with some toy trucks and the kids and everything. Martyna kept rolling her truck against the ground. Oh, and my aunt gave her a pretty necklace and bracelet, which while she was having her fit, she was stretching out, so I showed her how I was wearing my own bracelet, and she ended up putting it on her wrist normally instead of stretching it to where it might break.

Oh, but Martyna’s swing sob story was not the only sob story of the day. Remember how I mentioned she was incredibly interested in the bicycles? Well, her dad ended up promising her to get her one when she turns 3. However, at this restaurant, some little boy had a little kid’s tricycle, all decked out. She apparently waited and waited and waited, and once he was off, she nabbed it. Evidently, the adults didn’t mind. But… when it was time to give it back to the little boy, ohhhhh did she have a fit. Crying and sobbing refusing to let go, not understanding it’s not hers and that the boy wanted it back. She clutched onto the handrails and wrapped her legs around the trike’s body, so when my aunt tried to take her off, she lifted the trike with her. My uncle had to force her off, while my aunt and I held it so it wouldn’t fall. Oh, did she have such a fit. Sobbing, sobbing, sobbing. Again, Dorota, her mother, was concerned she fell, but noooo, she was just forced off the bike. My uncle joked how he was the bad guy of the day. And while we were leaving, she saw the bike and started whining and crying yet again. Such a tragic day for her.

Although, as Agata noted, while at one moment it’s the end of the world for a child, the next, it’s like they just won the lottery. Which is fortunate. And amusing. Mostly. My cousin and I ended up talking a lot, which was awesome. Honestly, I’ve always greatly respected her, and I’ve always loved talking to her and spending time with her. Actually, my aunt told me that Agata has to keep on reminding my uncle and aunt that I’m no longer that little girl I once was, and that I’m a young woman now! Nearly 20, come on. But it’s nice. (:

I actually recognized the restaurant we were from. It was so familiar, but I couldn’t put a point in time to it. My uncle was convinced I had never been there, but Agata ended up remembering we had pizza there. This absolutely threw my uncle off guard. Because that was in 2005. He was appalled that I could remember that from when I was 13. But Poland to me has so many memories and dear moments, I really won’t ever forget them, especially if I return to a certain place. Oh yes, and the cheesecake they served. So. Good. Argh. It’s not even fathomably close to the end of my time here, and I already worry about my return to the food in the States. I am not going to be a happy camper, at. All.

Anyways, around 5:30, 6, it was finally determined it was time to leave, so we all got our things together, and left. I said my good byes to my family, and the kids were quite exhausted, and while sure, if they saw things to play on, they would without a doubt keep playing, but I have a feeling they will fall asleep very fast tonight. But yes, Krzysiek’s new godparents ended up driving me back to Wrocław, because they live there as well. We talked a bit in the car, and they said that my Polish is quite good, which I’m really glad to hear. Yeah, my uncle says that there are times it’s hard to understand me, but if people outside of my family give me such compliments with a tone of genuine impression, then well, I’m a little proud of myself for that. But yes, we talked a bit about my plans in Krakow, and over all, and about the states a bit, and they informed me how the SkyTower in Wrocław will no longer be the tallest building in Poland, because they lacked the funding… Apparently, people are actually going to live there. It’s a skyscraper, and while there will obviously be offices, apartments will be there too. And not enough people were quite interested in buying an apartment, so they had to cut the building short. And I don’t blame those people!!! No way in hell would I want to live at the top of a skyscraper. Especially being the only one so tall. It really sticks out. Especially over such a flat terrain. Just. No. And they said they wouldn’t like it either. Part of their reasoning was interesting, as well.

They don’t like the idea of living up there, because you can’t really open up the windows or anything. Now, that has a lot more cultural meaning than you realize in it. In Poland, during the summer, there really is no air conditioning. So you just open up the windows to let your house have some ventilation (I’ve talked about this before). And they complained about how you could only rely on air conditioning if you lived up there. That’s how people are so accustomed to living, which is incredibly fascinating. I don’t blame them; I actually dislike air conditioning if it’s too heavy. I can feel how it’s an artificial breeze, full of chemicals. I don’t mind normal breezes outside; those are refreshing. But an AC breeze? I hate it. I don’t mind being cold, except if it’s AC cold. I’m weird, though. Agata and I talked about this as well, though, that in previous years, the summers have never been nearly this hot or long, so it’s starting to get a bit ridiculous without air conditioning. Yet it’s still not enough for most people to try and buy air conditioning, because it’s an incredibly short time comparatively anyways. It’s not worth the investment.

Another interesting thing I noticed. Today, they were talking about the new stadium, and they were quite skeptical about it. How are they going to keep the stadium active, and how they’re trying to fill it with events like singers or single boxer fights, whenever it’s an enormous stadium. In fact, from what I can tell, the Monster Jam thing next weekend has been cancelled or a bit of a failure. Which… isn’t that surprising. I was shocked when I found out monster trucks were going to be in Poland; never in my life could I have predicted that. Apparently, they’ve only sold 20% of their tickets too; again, not too surprising. Still, it’s a very different view from what I’ve been listening to with my mom’s godson for example; after all, it’s essentially his project. Also, they commented on the fast tram way they’re building to the stadium on the way home, and they said it was supposedly meant to be faster than other trams. Such a simple word on its own suddenly changes an entire outlook. My mom’s godson was talking about it, proudly, how it’s the first of its kind in Wrocław and should be really helpful, and then they are more skeptical. That moment just made me realize how different things really are for people. People who work on something are obviously far more optimistic, and then those who really aren’t connected are usually more skeptical. And this is an obvious observation, but it’s one of those notes that I sort of applied to myself, because I’m the exact same way back in Maryville, Tennessee, and the States, really. It’s just a curious thought, really, about how much perspectives can truly vary based on your position. Again, obvious note, but very in my face today, which I found quite interesting simply because of how I have only heard positive things about the stadium, SkyTower, and the fast tram way up to this point.

That’s how it really gets exciting though; truly digging deeper into cultures and different perspectives and learning as much as you can, and challenging your mind. Seriously, today was a wonderful day. Btw, can I have kids soon? And off to work tomorrow, once again! Hopefully, it’ll be more successful, and if not, this week I’ll start bringing out the phone again and pestering people (bwahahaha).

Ah yes, very important note. To anyone who has family on the east coast who dealt with Hurricane Irene, or worse, if you are on the east coast, I really hope you and your family and friends are all ok. /: Physically, emotionally, mentally, just everything. I’ve heard about a few deaths, and my thoughts are with everyone. (My only other family in the states is actually near Newark and NYC, so I am definitely worried about that area; that was actually my first thought when I realized how it might affect them.) So yes, I wish the best for everyone. <3 

Note: Written yesterday.

A Night in Rynek, and Time for Family and Friends

                It’s Fridaaaayyyy! So how did it go, you ask? Hm? Well…. Slow work day, yet again, though I did get two responses! Quite exciting! And while both were unable to attend, one of them was interested in the results of the conference and more information, so I was pretty happy with that. Really, at work I set up another blog, dedicated to my art. I have so much free time at work, I still feel guilty. After work, though, I went home, got some a scoop of raspberry and a scoop of some sort of nut ice cream on the way home, at home, I got ready, and went out to Rynek at night, with every intention to meet people.

                Well… that mission sort of failed… I’m not all that outgoing, especially on my own, and especially with no forced environment. Sort of just out there and about, well… it’s really intimidating, and I don’t really know how to start up a conversation with a random person. I’m just not that kind of person. And while yes, I was intending on going to a club or two, well, honestly, every one that I passed made me cringe, and I just didn’t feel comfortable with the idea of going in. Honestly, what kind of people would I meet in there? Would I really actually want to keep in touch with them and be friends? I mean, I know that sounds bad, but at the same time, I dunno. I guess I’m just uneasy about the entire scene, even though I would love it if I were with some friends already. I mean, I do love parties, and especially sort of dance parties that aren’t grind intensive, and just full of great dancing music. But… on my own… I feel incredibly… vulnerable I guess. I’m tiny. I’m weak. I’ve got a disability. Anyways… on the plus side!

                It was absolutely gorgeous. (: The fountain was all lit up, I noticed that the four flags were no longer all Polish, but one was the EU, one was Solidarność, one was Wrocław, and the final was Polish. It was really nifty to see they had changed them, and I have to wonder why. Not only that, but there were a ton of street performers out. In fact, one guy was singing, and he had a wonderful repertoire and voice. Wonderwall, September, and a ton of others in that genre, which was really my favorites. <3 I gave him some money for it, and stuck around for quite a while listening. (I really should’ve talked to him more besides that, but again, irrational shyness.) There were other street musicians and acrobatic sort of acts. I came in on a guy trying to get people to come in by drawing arrows towards him on the crowd with a bottle of water and getting in people’s ways as they walked through his “stage.” Quite amusing, actually. Like, he literally stood in front of them and didn’t move out of their way. Then another group I watched was two girls and two guys, involved the crowd, played violin, accordion, clarinet, and some sort of metal bongo, I think. One girl did some sort of dance routine with some fans, and then the boys did a fire juggling act, one on top of the other’s shoulders. The boys had squeaky voices as well. Like, they had some sort of squeaker in their mouths to sound like they had inaudibly high-pitched voices, which was cute. Also, there was a man and woman pair doing acrobatics, standing on each other and what not. That was nifty. Then there was another pair who was from Austria, who were really wonderful in including the crowd. A guy and a girl, the parts I saw were quite comedic and included the guy on a unicycle and five crowd volunteers holding up a rope for the girl to stand on, and they were juggling between each other. Pretty impressive, and just great performance and stage presence. Oh! And there were jugs of soapy water/bubble water set up, with two sticks attached to a string to allow people to make giant bubbles by the fountain. It was pretty nifty.

                Ah yes, and I had dinner there as well. Some sort of pork. It was quite good, and I’ll be honest. The only reason the restaurant got my interest was because of the fact that the singer was singing in front of their restaurant, and I wanted to listen to him. Then some elderly people came to sit down, so they made him move away. So disappointing. Though, he was still in listening distance.

                At around 22:00, I decided that was enough for the night, cause I stood and walked quite a bit, especially with my boots. My heels were beginning to hurt, and I really didn’t want to ruin my legs still. So I headed back to the tram stop, literally watching the tram I needed pull away, and since the next tram was in quite some time, I picked another tram to go to another stop, but then I realized I only had one option there too. And since I was tired and lazy, I took it to the very end of the route, instead of stopping on Hallera. I didn’t want to walk the short distance to the bus stop on Hallera, cause I knew it was shorter at Krzyki. Although, the timing just didn’t work, because by the time I got to Kryzki, the last bus had left from there on my route as well… So when I saw the bus I normally go on drive up, I asked the driver if he was going another round, and found out no, and his new route wouldn’t include my stop. … So yes. I walked home from the tram stop. Again. Except my heels were already in pain this time. Gotta love what poor, lazy planning does to you (although, I did check before I left for the times, just in case… didn’t work out all that well, I guess). Although, it was a very pleasant night stroll. About 30 minutes, just from the tram to my apartment. I was a bit wary of a group I was walking in front of at first, but it ended up being fine, and it was just a nice, refreshing walk.

                It’s nearly one now, and needless to say, I’m a bit tired from all the walking and standing around today… A bit disappointed in how I’m too shy to try and really talk to people, but I would say my Friday night in Rynek was not a waste at all, because it was very relaxing, and the street performers were well worth my time. (:

                It's Saturdaaaaayy!!! I got a good amount of sleep, well relaxed, woke up this morning, got packed, and headed to the bus station to go to Strzelin. I took the tram to the stop I know closest to the bus stop, and walked the rest of the way there, because I honestly didn't feel like messing around too much with figuring out public transport and risking losing the next bus ride to Strzelin and having to wait for an hour at the bus stop. Got on the bus, sat across a woman who ended up actually asking my aunt if she knew where the prison in Strzelin was. I guess she felt comfortable enough in asking her since she saw me go to her? Ya know, just that comforting feeling of hey, that person seemed nice, and if she's visiting someone here, they'll likely know more about the town. So my uncle ended up offering to drive her to the prison, since it was apparently confusing to find. Which was a good thing. Not only was it miserably hot today, but it was confusing. He had to go ask some worker on the other side of the area where it was, and then when he got there, you had to walk past some railroad that you can't drive past on Saturdays. But yeah, as always, my uncle is a reliable, caring person who helps others, just like my dad. (: In that moment, I definitely saw the family relation, because my dad is always willing to put his stuff aside and help another out. The lady tried to pay him for gas, but he refused, too. I love my family. <3 

                Anyways, we spent all day in the house. First it was too hot, then it constantly threatened to rain. Besides, I needed to sit around, and it was very nice, really. We talked a lot about family, about what I prefer in Poland, about the negatives in Poland, the positives of America, the negatives. Just comparison. Lots of talking about family and how it's difficult for women to have a family and a career, as my cousin and my cousin-in-law(?) are finding out through the beginning of their families. It was really nice; like, I was talking all seriously about how I would raise kids, and what I see that bothers me in certain parenting, or what I like, and other old stories. Lots of stories about my cousins as kids, as me as a kid. It was really interesting. Just... very simple, but nice day, cause, it's always fun learning more about your family and what it was like. Besides that, I also skyped with my parents, mainly my mom, which was super awesome! We just talked about how things are going here. Then I got to Skype with Stephen, who I've so missed talking to and hanging out with so much this summer. Talked about our current internal debates about our futures, so meaningful. And then also with some of my Muffins!!! Oh gosh. I miss you guys, so much. After finishing our Skype call, wow, it really just hit me. I wanted to be there. I wanted to be joking around, talking about our medventure stories, all of that. Especially since I have no one here to hang out with. But it was really really nice talking to you guys, and I'm so glad those of you who could, did gather in Sam's room to Skype, amongst all sorts of other craziness. 

                Ah yes, objad and kolacje were delicious. My uncle and aunt knowing my love for pierogi, bought me pierogi, which were delicious. And the pork and potatoes for dinner were also delicious. Seriously. I'm going to be spoiled by Polish food. When I go back to America, I'm going to be incredibly saddened by the food... Not gonna lie. But yes, simple, relaxing, day. Very enjoyable, lots of chatting. I love spending time with my family. <3 Definitley realizing more and more the utmost importance of family for me.

Observations on the Population

                Slow day was slow. Got one response by the end of the day, and I was unbelievably excited. After that, I went to the bank and settled the issues I ran into, and it was far easier than I had suspected, which was awesome. Then I went home, and drew. I actually finished two simple drawings, which I was very happy with myself for! :D Simple, to the point, but hey, they're drawings, and I'm working on my art a bit more. Also wrote another story. Poland is quite a phenomenal inspiration, I'd have to say. xD It's keeping me active creatively!               Now a few topics I've been thinking about... So when I was growing up, I noticed how my mom had these two circular, indention scars on her upper arm (I think it was right, not certain though). She said that it was part of an old vaccination Poland used to give (if I remember correctly). Well, I'm still seeing it on lots of people here, and that includes the younger people! So I honestly have no clue what vaccination or shot is required, but I've also only noticed it on women... Quite intriguing, I'd say. I also don't want to know what kind of shot or vaccination is required that essentially leaves a life-long scar on her arm... It mustn't be pleasant, that's for sure.
                Speaking of younger people, though, I read somewhere that Poland is one of the "youngest" countries in Europe, meaning that about 50% of its population is under the age of 35, guys. That's right. Half of about 38 million people are under the age of 35. And actually, you can really see that. Most of my work place is young, you see young mothers everywhere with their children, and most of the people I see are younger. And it's really weird to think I'm closer to the age of those mothers now than ever before, and that if you look at me, minus height, I look like I'm that age. And I've seen a ton of pregnant ladies walking around. I'm pretty sure I've seen more pregnant women out and about here than I have ever in the US, no joke.                But then you reach the other end of the population, the elderly, and I've seen so many of them walking around, using the public transport. Today, I watched one man crossing the street, walking how I do whenever I've walked too much, and yet, that's really their old choice of getting around, as far as I know. That's sort of intimidating, considering I know one day my "I've-killed-my-legs" walk will become my day-to-day walk. But they manage on their own, often enough, and that in itself is also admirable. Very stubborn and independent people, we Poles are. Besides that, the elderly often have these little rolling bags. I've seen a lot of people using them, and it makes sense. They don't have to strain their arms and back in carrying a ton of weight in a bag, like groceries, and instead can wheel it around with them and eventually just pick it up to take it on the trams or buses. I've never seen it before this year, either, at least that I've noticed, so I'd say that's an interesting new option.
               Now, moving onto today. Work is still slow, and I'm doing whatever I want, really. Writing up some challenge entries, checking out Facebook and my emails to see if anyone is corresponding with me. However, I have plans for tonight. Tonight, I am going home to get all dressed up and go out to town and see what the night life is like. ... This should be quite the interesting experience, as I don't even really do this at home. So I hope it goes well. Heck, maybe I might find some people to hang out with after work! ... Maybe. We'll see how that goes. But for now, I'll leave you guys with that! Enjoy your day, wherever you are!

Wake up! Fear is calling.

               Honestly, I wasn't going to write about yesterday until tomorrow simply because so little happened. But then last night happened. So here we go. Yesterday, in the office, quite boring. No responses at all. Still. The only slightly exciting things to happen were related to food. First, when I intended on going to buy a sandwich, it was thundering and threatening to storm. So I came back to quickly grab my umbrella; as I was about to leave, though, a huge crack of thunder rumbled through the city, and I decided, ya know what, I'm not that hungry. Which was a good idea, in the long run, because the second thing that happened was that my coworker got her money back from some ATM issues. She was incredibly excited, so she went out and bought all of us in the office room dessert. So, I got a phenomenal berry cup (buttery, bread, dessert cup, filled with a delicious cream, covered in blueberries, raspberries, and a blackberry). Oh good god, it was phenomenal. Seriously, you just don't have this kind of dessert in the US. It was delicate, light, but sweet enough and tarty. Most of the US desserts are way too heavy and sweet, which is why I typically don't eat dessert unless it's ice cream... It's just everything made in the US typically is far too sweet. So yes, loved it. 
               But after that, nothing else happened. I went home, bought myself a doughnut on the way home (once again, light, delicate, delicious). I actually drew on my tablet at home! And I have a good amount of it done, so I think I should be able to finish it tonight and start drawing something else. Which would be quite amazing considering how long it has been since I've had a finished piece, no matter how simple it is. 
               And that was my day. Went to bed around 9:30, exhausted, and I have no clue why.
               But then, 4 am rolled around, I was fast asleep, and I was woken up by a storm. You see, in Poland, I sleep with the window open. I have no air conditioning; in fact, most private homes have no air conditioning. It's not worth the price and effort for a few short months of heat. So, the open window provides wonderful ventilation. Though, the storm rolled in, I woke up, and I was wide awake. The wind was howling, the rain was pounding on the windows, walls, and balcony, the thunder rumbled relentlessly. I couldn't fall back to sleep. Especially after I saw how the trees were flailing outside. And with the continual rumbling thunder, it brought me to one realization: I don't know the rate of tornadoes in Poland. That thought along with, I can't check the internet, kept me wide awake. I eventually closed the window, but I could still hear the wind howling and the rumbling thunder. Honestly, I was mortified. My apartment is on the fourth floor of a four floor building, and my room is on the second level within that apartment. This part of Poland is flat. And I don't know anything about natural disasters in Poland minus the floods (and I wish for a quick and full recovery for all the flood victims this year as well).                I ended up getting up and out of bed, turning on the radio, hearing absolutely nothing useful on the radio, and heading downstairs. Right. Cause being on the first floor of my apartment would help so much if there were a tornado. Yet somehow, it assured me. Somewhat. ... More like the tea and butter biscuit crackers I had helped me. I was incredibly on edge, and I didn't know what to do. I thought about calling my uncle, but damnit, it was four in the morning. Oh, sure he wakes up at six, but that's two hours later. And then I thought, hey... six hour time difference. So grateful for that. After some internal conflicts, I ended up calling my parents from my work phone. Of course, my mom immediately asked if something was wrong. Cause I was calling them and it's 4:30 in the morning at that point. I told my parents about the storm, my dad reassured me tornadoes are not a common occurrence in Poland, which I mean, I figured considering geographically it's at a higher latitude than anywhere tornadoes regularly occur in the US, but well... it's been a crazy year for weather, and my mind was racing. While we were talking on the phone, twice the thunder cracked so loudly that I couldn't hear what they were saying at all. Not only that, but downstairs, in the kitchen, there's a lamp that hangs from the ceiling on a cord; I had the window cracked open (in Poland, windows crack open from the top; again, ventilation) and this lamp was swaying from the wind outside... Yeah, not too reassuring.
               And no, I'm not ashamed of the fact I ended up calling my parents to figure out if I was in trouble. There are 72 stairs in my building to get to my floor, and I wasn't going to run down the stairs and back up to try and hide in the basement for nothing. That and I know I have a fear of tornadoes. I have always had a great fear of tornadoes. Throughout my entire life, I have had multiple dreams about running away from tornadoes, being in a tornado's path, and other such tornado related nightmares. It's always been tornadoes and dinosaurs (of course, I friggin' love dinosaurs, so even in those dreams if I'm in danger, I'm also in awe and appreciate the dream later on; not so much with tornadoes). That's probably thanks to Twister and Jurassic Park, respectively... Haven't seen Twister since I was a kid, either, but there ya have it. Sending my imagination into a vivid taunting vision.
               Regardless, after finishing my tea, I went upstairs and the storm was passing. The lighting was actually incredibly gorgeous to watch once I was assured nothing was going to happen; not only that, but watching the clouds roll by at such a quick speed was quite pretty, especially at night. My mom called one more time around 5 to make sure I was ok, and I was. I finally went back to sleep. It was certainly an adventure, though... Oh, I did open my window again, and the thunder wasn't too bad anymore. Yay for irrational fears keeping you up through the night! I'm quite grateful I went to bed earlier, as well. I wouldn't have been well-rested otherwise. Though, it really does suck that a storm woke me up. I used to be able to sleep through such storms, but guess not anymore... 
               Although... that occurrence pretty much made me set my mind that I'm going to talk to the neighbors and see if I can pay them to use their WiFi for one month or something... Really. The internet would've calmed me so much, cause I could've found out exactly what to expect and how bad the storm was instead of panicking. That and it's really nice to be able to check the weather daily. That's what I did at Vandy, and I really wish I could to that here before going to work. Especially as it gets colder.                So there ya go. Story of me being a pansy! Now, let's be hopeful that today I get some responses to my emails... No's included, cause at least I'd know people are reading!

Another slow day...

               Another slow day. Yup, no responses. At all. So it was a full free day at work, woo! Except not really, cause I feel bad for not doing anything… I mean, I literally checked my messages all day and made plans for myself. And tomorrow, I have a feeling I’ll (finally) be captioning all my pictures I have uploaded. (Which if you do not have access to and would like access, please tell me! It is under private due to the information I am handing out over these pictures.)

               I didn’t eat anything but a chocolate wafer bar at work today, so at four I left and went to a restaurant in Rynek, and ordered some penne pasta with tomato sauce, garlic, onions, bacon, and green-leafy-things. It was good. (: Then had some ice cream, banana (which was faker than other places I’ve been to in Poland) and bakaliowe, which was not as good as other places I have had such a flavor at (which, I don’t know how to describe it to you except that it’s usually yogurt or cream-flavored, with raisins, nuts, and other such things). I walked around the square, looking and comparing postcard prices, trying to find flags, and overall, just enjoying myself. Went into Empik, again. Great store (: But I didn’t feel like exploring too much.

               Although, I did something I really probably should not have done… Ya see… as I was walking to the tram (not trolley) stop, there was this really really big sign on a store saying “SALE! UP TO 80% OFF!” … Ok, 80%. Damn. That’s a lot. Not only that, but I immediately did the “convert over to USD” thing in my mind, and usually, from my experience, the clothing I have bought in Poland has been at a far better price than in the US. And with such a sale… well… I really couldn’t lose. And I was right. I ended up buying a short-sleeved, white pullover, which I have desperately needed every time I have gone into a sort of presentation thing and felt like my shirts’ sleeves are too short or other things like that. A strapless black bra to wear under things which easily show bra straps. Annnnd… A strapless shirt. Yup. That’s right. Cute, black strapless shirt with a bow on the side. And I wouldn’t have bought it if it looked bad (and trust me, I tried on other ones, and they didn't look good). These three items cost less than my post-work dinner. Even if I don’t include the tip. Yes. Three articles of clothing ended up costing less than water and pasta. Best part? Name of the store: Della Moda Italiana. So, given all of these factors, I am quite content and proud of this purchase. I am not ashamed. Hah. Btw, if you are curious, the total cost in US dollars was 12.39. Give or take some due to fluctuation of exchange rates.

               After that, I did go home. I was tired. I was planning on staying to go to a Buddhist meditation session, but… I was tired… and I realized I’d get home really late and still have to make something to eat and shower up before bed. The session starts at 8, it’d probably end around 9, I’d get home around 10… So yeah, unfortunately, I decided to go home. Especially since I’d like to have the energy to see the night life on Thursday night, since Friday night I’ll likely be heading to Strzelin. Dunno yet, have to talk to my uncle about that. However, I plan on putting up my LOST laminations today! Hopefully drawing the beginning of a very long series I’d like to finish; simple and to the point, but effective, I’d say, in making me work on my art. And, maybe even hanging up the flags (heck, I saw a European Union one in Empik; I might end up buying it… it’s about $10). Ah well, time to eat and then another day of work! Tomorrow you guys that have access to my album associated with this blog will see new captions. :D
Note: Post written yesterday.

And now... Just wait.

               Well, hello there. So I got some more groceries yesterday, and the cashier was not in a good mood. I still haven't learned the differences between all the sizes and colors of groszy here, cause that's just... I mean, I kept on feeling like I would take too long, so I keep chucking bills at them. I know the coin złoty, but not the groszy. Anyways, she asked me for specific change, and I was like, ok. So I gave her the amount I thought it was and she was like -_-; not 14 groszy, 34. And then slowly counted it out for me like I had offended her mother. Oh well, if she wants to be in a foul mood, that's all up to her. (:

               Besides that, life is uneventful. Haha xD Except for the fact that my supervisor essentially told me to do nothing, now, at work. Cause now I'm just waiting for responses from all of the institutes and organizations to respond, and she was surprised when I told her how many I emailed (about 140). So yeah, free time at work! xD Yeah... free time. xD Tried to find some numbers and call them, but besides that... yeah, very slow day. Although... I have to go take care of some bank issues thanks to my stupidity. We'll see how that goes.

               So on my way home, I stopped at the baked goods store in front of my bus stop. Got two scoops of ice cream; yogurt with raisins, and “arbuz.” Now, I’ll tell you, as far as I’m concerned, I was rather certain that “arbuz” meant watermelon… Like… incredibly certain… When I got that taste, though, it was very bitter, and it surprised me. It was a taste I had tasted before but didn’t really like. I mean, I ate all of it, but I wouldn’t order it again, ya know what I mean? Anyways, I determined that it was grapefruit… … Yes, that was an enormous let down for me, cause watermelon and grapefruit are two very very different tastes. Especially that I don’t like grapefruit. The last ice cream place I saw that had grapefruit labeled it “grejpfrutowy.” So I really have no clue what that mix up was about. And I was REALLY certain that I saw the picture of a watermelon on the little sticker sign too. So confusing.

               Dinner was nice. I had a peach for an appetizer and, tomato soup and some scrambled eggs as my entrée.Wouldn’t you say that’s a well-rounded, yummy dinner? ;D (I really need to print out some recipes and make a legit dinner soon…) Then I sketched a bit and finally decorated my room with my Pokemon laminations! Already looks that much better! (: Now I just have the LOST ones and than my flags! I think I'm going to buy a European Union flag... Or a Wrocław flag... or a Dolny-Śląsk flag... I dunno.. I'll have to look into them and figure out which ones I want (or all, since I'm doing so well with my spendings :D).

               This morning, however, I read something quite interesting in the paper. Germany is going against Facebook; someone said that technically it's illegal to be on Facebook, in both Germany and the EU, since people are giving their information to an American company, and some logistical stuff like that. It was really interesting. o_o I wonder what turns out from that. Not only that, but Russia is building a space hotel. ... Anyone surprised? Anyone, anyone? Ok, good. But yeah, now for another likely slow work day as I wait for responses! Whooo!

Fountains and gardens and koi, oh my!

               Hiiii guyyyys. So, sitting in the Galeria, again. First time in awhile. Enjoying some wonderful Jasmine tea, as I already had ice cream earlier today (one scoop plum, one walnut). (: So last night, some of their neighbors came over and spent some time. They had a child walkie on them as well, to make sure their kid down the street was sleeping all right. xD The dad's are actually godfather's of their respective sons, which is really sweet. ^_^ Really nice people! So it was a nice night, and I just spent it online as well, chatting with Ani and Lisa, which was quite wonderful, as I haven't had that opportunity in awhile. And talking to Jacob about move-in! Oh, you Vandy kids. I can't believe it's been a year since WE did move in. And I sort of can't believe I wasn't there now. I am wonderfully happy where I am, in Poland, but at the same time, I miss my Vandy Muffins and choir. :c Hopefully I can sing in the choir here at Jagiellonski when I get there, but we shall see!
                Today, woke up, had breakfast, drew some with Hania; I actually drew her with crayons (I took a picture to share, as well)! Michał flew out to Warsaw today for some business and work stuff. Coming home tomorrow. So Agata, the kids, and I went out to the part of town by the zoo, where there is a fountain that sprays its water along with classical music once an hour. It was really pretty, and incredibly refreshing as it was unfortunately hot today. Supposed to be around 32 degrees Celsius all week. Not. Happy. (Calculate that for yourselves on Google, guys, if you're curious.) So whenever the fountains went up high and sprayed the area around, well, I was happy. The kids really seemed to enjoy it, especially Hania, though she wouldn't leave her poor mother alone to carry her around. Hania tried to play in the kid's fountain. Twice. She never went fully in, but she got undressed and everything for it. The other kids were having an absolute blast. (: Then we went through the Japanese Garden, which was gorgeous. Little streams, a lake, Japanese statues and what not. Enormous koi, smaller carp, ducks. It was fun. The kids also loved it; fought a bit over who would use the camera to take pictures, so Agata was holding onto the hand strap just in case. Really, it was a day of relaxed walking, which is always really good for me, actually. Whenever I have to rush, it tires out my legs quicker, but a leisurely walk, especially since you have to make sure the kids stick close behind, no problem! :D 
                 We had objad at the restaurant. I had some meat pierogi... Which... I got about an hour after ordering... ... Cause they forgot. It was really hectic and unnerving, how bad the service was. Just some sort of miscommunication. I mean, there was a LOT of people there guys. Like, the entrance lines to the zoo. On both sides, going down along the walls, waiting. I took pictures, cause it was insane. Apparently the zoo is good, so I'll go to it at the end of September, when the weather is cooler; perfect for me and the animals, haha. I'll probably go with Michał and Agata and their kids, since the kids wanted to go. But yes, back to the restaurant. I found out I like Gorgonzola, which is a cheesy sort of pasta sauce. So that's good for future reference. We also ordered ice cream, but... can you believe we waited nearly 30 minutes for it, and then they still messed up the kids orders? So we were just like -_- Give us the receipt, and we'll leave now, thank you. And we did. Hania asked when they would go back to the fountain, and Agata said at night, when there are pretty colors lighting it up as well. (: Instead, we went to another Galeria, Pasaż Grundwalski, and that's where we had our ice cream. Hania was wiped out, and you could tell by how slowly she was eating her ice cream. Antoni ate all of his. Oh, the two of them got little blow-up dolls; Hello Kitty and a sword. Seriously, wonderful mother. xD But yeah. It was good. We went to my apartment to drop off some of my stuff and to show the kids where their parents used to live. Antoni said he didn't remember living there; of course not, he was two. The two of them, though, didn't want to leave. And they didn't want to drop me off. xD They wanted me to stay longer and what not. Really sweet <3
                So after that, they dropped me off in front of the Galeria I'm at now, and we said good bye. We planned to meet with each other in two weeks; next weekend off to my aunt's and uncle's and to my nephew's baptism. The following, back to them. I'm liking this. A lot xD It's so nice to have people to go visit on the weekends and change things up. (: Really enjoyable. Oh yes, and today, the kids were whining quite a bit, actually. But it still didn't bother me. I understood, they are kids. The end. It happens. Life moves on, and it's wonderful. And in the car, Antoni kept "stabbing" me with his blow-up sword. :P So I kept trying to grab it and what not. Good fun xD
                Anyways, exciting news! I might be going to the first event at the Euro Cup stadium. It's going to be... Wait for it, wait for it... A monster truck rally. Yes, guys, that's right. Monster trucks. This is really the first time they'll be in Poland, but I saw an advertisement for one, and immediately recognized Grave Digger. xD Now, you see, I'm actually really really hoping I can go, but that's not up to me. Now, why in the world would I go to a monster truck rally? Well, ya see, as a kid, my neighbor, Brice, was into monster trucks. And we would play with his monster truck toys and watch the events on TV and play games and what not about monster trucks. So it's part of my childhood, and it would just be so awesome to go see this thing live. And in Poland. Such an intertwining of my life right there. So we'll see how it goes. I hope it works out. (: You know you're from the South when... your childhood consists of NASCAR, monster trucks, and football... Not all of it, obviously, but three significant things in my childhood, hahahaha.
              Also! I have determined I am a Southern girl... ... Southern Polish girl that is, pssssssh. Dolny Śląsk and Śląsk all the way, guys. All the way! Seriously. I'm loving Wrocław. I am falling in love. I hate big cities in America, but I love them in Poland. This city is wonderful, has so much history, sooooo much to do. I really could see myself living here or in one of the smaller cities near by, cause those are awesome too. Ah, so happy. <3 (My poor parents... moved away from this exact area, and here I am, dreaming of living here.) I think that's where I'll end my daily entry! Soon, I'll go home, eat some kolacja, write a bit more of my story (which I'm actually incredibly proud of so far, guys... I really feel like I'm pulling out some emotions and important points in it, and I don't think that often, sooo, yeah! Yay for some self-confidence in my writing!), and sleep. Then off to another day of work! Hopefully, it'll finally be a full, uninterrupted week. xD

Rodzina!

                Well, guys. Just gotta tell ya. Weekend's going awesome. It truly, really is. Michał picked me up from my apartment, and he's constantly calling, checking his phone, all sorts of professional, important person stuff, cause of the entire Euro Cup stadium he has to take care of and what not. I'm in a beautiful part of Wrocław, a part I have not seen yet, actually, on the eastern part. Their house is absolutely stunning. It truly is. That and their backyard is enormous, and they have a trampoline and a mini basketball court and all sorts of fun stuff. But now, onto the most important part. Their children. Are absolutely. Precious. ;; Have I mentioned, I adore kids? But yes, they are beautiful and have these wonderful, chipper personalities (well, they're kids, but still!). So yes, I came into the house, and Michał introduced me as "Ciocia," aunt. Basically, everyone older than you is an aunt or uncle. I love it <3 So much family importance. But yes! Hania refused to look at me being all shy, and Antoni really didn't know what to do. He said hi and went back to whatever he was doing. Playing with Gromiti, I think, which is a collectible series/shows which he absolutely adores. Can't blame him; something tells me I would've fallen in love with it as a kid, hahaha. 
                I met Agata's parents as well, and we had a nice dinner and just chatted and what not. I really need to improve my Polish. Or at least my vocabulary. I understand so much, but sometimes pulling out certain words is difficult. But yes, it was a very pleasant and relaxing evening; we talked and watched a soccer game. Lots of questions about America and my job and if I love Poland. Everyone asks me how I feel in Poland, and I always say, better here than in America, and all of them are shocked yet incredibly incredibly happy and proud. It's quite fun. 
                So Hania doesn't always say her r's. She says them as l's. It's adorable. And she doesn't quite get ż's either... Which... basically sounds like "sh" except with a z sound. She always says z's. It's so cute. xD Anyways! I slept really really well last night. Very well rested. Great breakfast. Agata's parents fixed up the backyard some, ya know, tying up trees and what not. Then I played with Antoni a game of Swinging Chimps, and then with both Antoni and Hania two games of Memory. It's been so much fun just watching the family and having discussions, sitting back and enjoying the weekend, relaxing completely. Cause in the afternoon we went to Michał's grandmother's, where we had an enormous objad. Which... is lunch. But more like dinner in food. If that makes sense. I mean. A lot. I was stuffed. And the food was delicious. And oh goodness gracious, the cake she made. America. You can't make cake. No, you really really can't. Cake in America is fail. This cake was so delicate and delicious. But yeah, we just discussed what it's like in America. Why I like Poland more. We talked a lot about the differences in schools. Michał also said that school in America was far easier than America. Surprise surprise. We also talked about universities and how they differed, and they noted that it's easier to go to university here, in Poland. To get in and go without really ya know... killing your bank before you even really have a properly filled bank account, ya know? Haha. Michał's grandfather also told me some stories of what it was like in World War II here, and other older stories. Ah, and their apartment really is typical old Poland. Like, the way it was decorated just reminded me exactly of all my memories from Poland, and how most houses were decorated and what not. It was really neat. ^^
                Oh yes, and this morning, after breakfast, Antoni and Hania finally warmed up to me. Antoni showed me his room and his Gromiti collection, and asked me what my favorites were. Quite a cool series, really... At least by it's appearance. And he asked me to read some of the cards, even last night, and I was like: I think you might read them better than I will. Not quite yet, but soon enough he will xD Regardless, I read them for him, and Hania asked me to read an English card. Then Hania showed me her room as well and asked me what my favorite dolls were of her collection. She has a ton of Polly Pockets, apparently. Ah yes, and Antoni gave a way a ton of his toys today; all cars, I think, to his younger cousin who is three years old. (Oh yes, Antoni is six, and Hania four). He didn't whine or anything about it. In fact, he was very pushy about giving them away, cause he didn't want them. Which is really cool. And apparently, his mom said that yesterday he had asked, "What if when people died, they were born again?" And from everything else she said about him, he seems to be a very smart and observant kid. Antoni's really artistic. He draws well, and he sings along with songs he's heard before. It's really cute. (: Lmfao, and he's obsessed with a game on his iPad. It seems to be a rather advanced game too. Like, a fantasy-based, level game. Honestly, wonderful, adorable, sweet family. Sure, there are their whining fits and what not, but still... So much love just radiating from them! <3
                So yes, let me tell you. Out of all of our family, I'm more or less the only one my age... All my cousins are in their 30s, or our family friends kids are in their 30s, and they're all starting their own families and have kids, from little infants to about 10. And here I am, having just finished my first year of college. Not on one end or the other, just in the middle. It's a really cool experience, but at the same time, I see these kids, I love kids, and I'm like dangit. Society and expectations. I want kids. (No worries. Not now. Not until I am married and settled down. Just one of those desires. :P) That and I want to live in Poland. I want to move here and work here. I need to look into professor salaries in Poland... Although, this won't be finalized until I see what it's like in Australia as well (and apparently, they have a need for professors ;D).
              Ah yes! Michał lived in America for a year, for his last year of high school. He actually was the best at his school. Including in English. (Guys... Guys... really. Think about what this means about our education.) But yes, he was there while I was two. Two years old. He told me how he would push me around in my stroller, and how he apparently forced me to watch an NBA final or something. xD 
              But yes, it's been a very relaxing, enjoyable, sort of family day. Haha, forgot how actually before we went to Michał's grandparents, that the kids were begging me to sit in the back of the car with them. xD Great day, really. Relaxing morning, relaxing day, discussions galore, family. We came home, Hania took a nap (She stayed up until about 11 last night!), Michał and Antoni went to a friend's house and went biking, and I just stuck around and chilled in the house. And that's really how the end of the day is going to look. :)

First day back, and to the weekend!

                Oi! This is utter nonsense. I just got back to work, and here's the weekend once more! Wow... really, I can't believe that it's my second weekend in Poland. Regardless, today at work was good. (: I met yet another coworker; he just returned from a vacation on the beach. So he's now in my office as well! :D Not only that, but today was the first day we used the office lights. oO; At least in our room. Let me tell you. I was a bit taken back when I came back to see them turned on.

                You see, in Poland, you just use the natural light through the window. You don't turn on the lights unless you need them, like in a windowless room, or at night, or on a rainy day. Well, today is a rainy day. The sky got darker, and it's been pouring, I think, for awhile. Not that I can completely tell. Either way, the lights were on. And it was weird. For me, it's refreshing. I hate using artificial light unless it's necessary; yet another aspect I picked up from Poland. It's just... so bright and unpleasant, and why the hell would you waste the energy if you can use the energy of the sun, which has far more energy than this world will ever see, haha. I'm sure my roomie could tell you all about me being all weird about turning on the lights. :P

                Also, my coworker who just came back from work is playing music. I like this. A lot. No more silence in the office when we're not talking. XD And in fact. We're listening to the genre I like! Soft rock! Right now, the song is... by George Michael! Haha.

                So work today went like this: copy, paste, double check information is correct, email. Email. Email. Email. Email about a few dozen times to a few dozen groups and organizations and what not. Not the most thrilling thing; all I can say is I really really hope someone responds to this. I'll be honest; it'll suck otherwise. Cause yeah... Sending emails... Got really... really... old. So. Boring. But! Instead of having an interesting assignment at the moment, I (always) have amusing coworkers! So this works! 
                "Oh no, the less I smoke, the healthier I'll be! I'll die healthier!" One of my coworkers, who I don't know all that well to be honest. Oi vei. They're all working to set up a health conference about exercise, and healthy eating, and less smoking too! Quite the irony... quiiiite the irony. (Yes, it is likely I will continuously comment on this... Due to my ah... dislike of smoking. :P)
                 X-X Too. Much. Food. We ordered from a Chinese take out place, today. Noodle w Pudle. (Essentially Noodles in a Box.) ... Dear goodness, the box looks small, but there is sooooo much fooood. I can't eat all of it. I'm tiny. It's too much. TOO MUCH.
                On the bright side, though, I have received one response from my crazy emailing! :D Nothing significant like yes or not, but a response no less! Meaning they looked! Haha! And I talked to my dad on Gtalk! Which was really nice. And he laughed at me. Cause I said that today was a bit boring. So he laughed. I knew he would. Ah well, work has those days, for sure.
                Bahaha... Walk down the hall in my building, silence. My office room. Music. xD And oh gosh... my coworker... She has a friend who sends her jokes... Dirty jokes, in English! But they are hysterical. Good laughs, good laughs...
                Anyways! I'll be spending this weekend with Michal and his family! (: I'm really excited to see his kids. I also have some clothes for them. o: So yeah, it'll be good. Unfortunately, it looks like it might rain on my way home. Not cool. >( It could've rained all day while in the office, but on my way home? Nooooo! Not cool, nature, not cool. Especially now that I'm just getting better. Dx Ah well! It's been a good, albeit very slow day.