A New Doctor for Mom, a Party for Henry and the Zoo

This week was another week of firsts for the Archers. Although Henry has not officially started his new school, he was still invited to celebrate in the St.Martin's Day celebration hosted by his "kindergarten". St. Martin's Day is celebrated in Germany and throughout Europe on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11 minutes after 11 o'clock. St. Martin was known as the "bishop of tours" and is remembered for his exemplary way of life. He lived in the 4th century when he was a Roman soldier who was later baptized as an adult and then became a monk. This holiday is primarily celebrated by children and people in rural Europe. The children make illuminated paper lanterns that hang from sticks and go from house to house singing songs about St. Martin in exchange for candy and treats, however, most communities now celebrate with local parties such as the one held by Henry's kindergarten in the church yard. Since Henry did not have an opportunity to make a lantern of his own, our neighbors were kind enough to offer him an extra one of theirs, although most of the children were too busy running and playing to hold their lanterns and march in the parade, so the parents ended up holding the traditional lanterns.

The same evening of the St. Martin's day festival, we had a good friend over for supper. He was in Mannheim for business and joined us for a home cooked meal. We enjoyed the evening very much and welcome any visitors who are passing through!!

Henry and I also attended our first John Deere "coffee" this week. Once a month the JD wives get together for coffee (and pastries) and have a chance to visit. It also allows the little ones who are not in school yet a chance to play. As a newcomer to the country, it also gave me an opportunity meet other ex-pats and learn of new things to do and places to go.

On Thursday, I had my first appointment with my new OB-GYN. He was recommended to us by another JD family who had a baby here a couple of months ago. His office is downtown Mannheim and a little tricky to find since there are very few signs or directions posted in this country. After walking around for 20 minutes, we finally found the way to his office, via an unmarked elevator. When we arrived, we were again surprised by the atmosphere inside. He only had one employee, his receptionist, and the office was extremely quite (until Henry arrived of course). After checking in, we waited about 45 minutes in the waiting area (which, from what I understand, is not a bad wait) before the doctor himself came and showed us to the exam room. I was a little apprehensive because I have heard so many stories about how the Europeans like to do everything "naturally" and really push for a "natural" birthing experience. Perhaps if this was my first baby, I might buy into that, however, having experienced the the luxury of an epidural and various pain meds, I know better. I was pleasantly surprised when he was receptive to my wishes for my plan of care. He then performed an examine, did the ultrasound himself (no tech) and then walked us to the door. A bit different from what we are used to. In addition, he spoke English very well as many physicians do in Germany.

Another JD family arrived in Germany this week. They have two little girls, Abby 3 and Samantha 1 and have one on the way (almost the same time our little one is due). They have been in a hotel all week since their home is not ready yet, so they decided to join us for a trip to the Heidelberg Zoo on Saturday so the little ones could stretch their legs and run some energy off. The zoo is open all year and has a great variety of animals. We had to laugh a little when we saw a raccoon on display. Evidently, raccoons are not as plentiful here as they are in the states. We only made it through half of the zoo on Saturday, it is extremely large and it was only about 40 degrees outside (and windy). We bought a family pass for the year, I think it will be a frequent stop this summer as there is a lot of green space, playgrounds and picnic areas in addition to the many animal attractions.

Today (Sunday) we went to the English speaking Catholic church in Heidelberg. It is located in the Mark Twain Village on the Army base. We were made to feel right at home immediately as we walked in the door and were asked to bring up the gifts. After church we had coffee and donuts in the church basement with the rest of the parishioners.

This week Henry has a physical with his pediatrician here. When I called to make the appointment, she answered her own telephone, which threw me for a loop, but many of the JD families take there children to her and are pleased with her care. Henry may also start German Kindergarten (preschool) this coming week. We visited the school last week for about an hour and they said he was welcome to start anytime. The director of the school and Henry's teacher both speak English fairly, and our home is literally right next door to the school, so he should be okay. The JD family who previously lived in this house sent two of their children to this school and were very pleased.

I will post more next week. As we are entering our 4th week here in Germany, I am beginning to miss home, but hearing from you all from time to time is wonderful, thank you for all of the nice emails and phone calls. We also want to send a big THANK YOU to my Mom and Dad for all of their help back home, we couldn't do this without you.