There is a lot of bewilderment for non-native speakers when it comes to talking to Germans in Germany. What should it be? “Du” (pronounce: doo) or “Sie” (pronounce: zee)? And when do you use first names and when last names? And when do you say “Frau” (pronounce: frouw, i.e. Mrs.) and when “Fraeulein” (pronounce: froy-line, […]
Home from Home: Christstollen
These days, stores in the area which have been carrying German Christmas treats are pretty much sold out, I guess. One of the most traditional baked goods – and I have to admit definitely not my favorite one – is Christstollen (pronounce: ‘chreest-shtoll-lan). But that’s because I’m not one for sweet yeast doughs at all. […]
Home from Home: Pick-up and drop-off
People are talking about how divided this country is, and I see it every day. Not just in a sense of politics – and you know this column was never meant to make any political statements. I find that there is one part of the population who drops off and another who picks up.
Home from Home: Castles
Let’s face it: We are all more or less fascinated with castles. In Europe we almost take them for granted. Our ancestors have been exploited during their built. And though the US have managed to break away from aristocracy long before Europeans, there are still quite a few architectural structures that imitate the grandeur of […]
Home from Home: Rivers
Have you ever enjoyed a river cruise? Or any kind of boating trip on a river? On a riverboat? Tell me I’m wrong, but here in Western Washington the only navigable river as in riverboats and freight ships is the Columbia river. The rest of them are barely useable for even small watercraft. It was […]
Home from Home: Windows
I love cleaning windows. At least I used to back in Germany. Over here – not so much. And that is because window cleaning in the US is so much less gratifying. Not because the windows get less dirty and you wouldn’t see the difference. The difference is in the windows themselves.
Home from Home: Armistice Day
This Sunday, we remember the end of World War I, Armistice Day. “We” as in those who still remember people who lived through it. Because since then it has been overshadowed by so many wars that seem to have hit closer. And the generation born at the beginning of this century might not even be […]
Book Signing with Susanne Bacon at SHMA Christmas Store
You may have read my Friday column “Home from Home” in the Suburban Times. But have you also ever read one of my Wycliff novel series? Here is another opportunity for you to meet me, have a chat, and get yourself a signed copy of my very latest book, “Clean Cuts”.
SHMA History Hunt announces winners
Last year, The Steilacoom Historical Museum Association (SHMA) introduced a History Hunt with three different levels of difficulty, leading visitors through the museum grounds but also through the Historical District of Steilacoom. This year, due to changes, the History Hunts questions were updated.