November 2018 Things

November started here with some sunshine, blue sky with clouds and 14°C. Not a bad start but I notice people have switched into Autumn or Winter clothes. I wore a scarf last week for the first time since last Winter.

I had a good October some of which I shared with you via posts on this blog. A few things worried me and that was mainly to do with bad weather. For example: Worrying about Shirley and family in Florida under threat from Hurricane Michael. Fortunately they are all well and did not suffer the full force of the hurricane.

Looking  at my diary for November I see all the usual weekly appointments and meetings. I have another 2 meetings for treatment to my back/upper spine and a dental check up. My Photoshop meetings start tomorrow after a very long break. I wonder how much I have forgotten? Analogue connections for radio/TV will end in a couple of weeks. I am going to a meeting this evening to learn more about it, although I have a digital connection.

Who has a birthday in November? Daniel starts the month with his 22nd tomorrow. He is busy with university registration and funding at the moment but I am sure he will find time to celebrate. Jeff in Amsterdam will be 63 on the 19th. We met many years ago at uni. Sarah in London will be 58 on the 22nd. My old flatmate Stephen S. will be all of 61 on the 29th. I'm sure he'll call me the next time he is in Berlin so we can meet and enjoy a glass or two! Have a great day no matter where you are :-))

There are a few more things of note this month. On Saturday 3rd it will be the first anniversary of Hermann's funeral. I still miss not going to his place each Sunday for lunch and a slow walk. On the 9th, Alan and Lynne will take a plane to return to the UK after seeing family in NZ and Ozland. Have a safe journey. On Saturday 24th I'm meeting Jeff and his wife to show them a few local sights and enjoy lunch together. Looking forward to that! 

A Book

I bought a book today, after my movement and stretching course led by Kerstin. Last Wednesday afternoon I attended a meeting of the local museum support group. An ex-mayor was also present and recommended we all read a new book about the history of Karlshorst. He was a history teacher and has written a book about the SPD in Karlshorst. I decided to follow his advice.

Here you can see the title page. I would translate the words as, 'Noble Suburb and Site of History'. In the top right you can see the entrance to a large building. This was to host a very important event and one which put Karlshorst into world history.

Karlshorst translates as 'Karl's Nest' and is in the south of the borough of Lichtenberg in the east of Berlin. It was founded in 1895 as 'Carlshorst'. It was planned to be the garden town of Lichtenberg for only 500 families. It now has a population of 22 thousand! In 1901, a station was completed for the S-Bahn and trains from Berlin to Breslau (now Wroclaw in the west of Poland). It then developed as an affluent residential area.

In the mid-1930s, a large complex was built to train officers for the Wehrmacht. In the south of the complex an Officer's Mess was built with sleeping and dining facilities. Marshal Georgy Zhukov established his HQ there in April 1945. In the evening of 8th May 1945, senior military officers from different countries met there, including three representing the German military. They signed a document containing the unconditional surrender of German forces, which officially ended WWII in Europe. Here you can see the hall where the signing took place.

From 1945 to 1949, the buildings served as the HQ of the Soviet Military Administration in Germany. Russian soldiers left Karlshorst in 1994. It is now the home of the German-Russian Museum. Entrance is free! Pay a visit the next time you are in Berlin. It is worth it.

Birthday Boy

So, who had a birthday nearly two weeks ago? Okay, I'll make it easier for you. It was a 'he' and he was all of 16 on that day. I think some of you have got it right. It was Bro2 from my Family. He called earlier and wanted to visit just after his birthday. We agreed a day/time then he had something at school so we agreed another day and time - and then another one!

We finally met two days ago. He arrived with Bro1. Really nice to see them again after nearly 4 weeks. After our greetings, I gave Birthday Boy a card with a present inside. He was both surprised and very happy. I think you can see this in the photo. You may also notice that his moustache is clear to see.

Bro1 now has a full beard. Very nice and it suits him. Bro2 complained that he couldn't grow a beard but proudly showed me 4 hairs growing under his lower lip. I  told him to leave them alone and be patient. The beard just needs a bit more time. He smiled at hearing the words he wanted to hear :-)

I put food onto the table in front of the TV and they settled down to an evening of eating and watching a James Bond film on DVD. I noticed they chewed more and harder in the chase and fighting scenes! And so the evening went by and it was time for them to leave. A really pleasant time with lots of smiles, laughs and jokes. Looking forward to their next visit. I wonder what Bro2 will buy with the present I gave him?

Grillen

I live opposite a new(ish) block of flats also owned by the housing association. There is a section designed for meetings, discussions and parties. Here is a view from the back of the meeting room into the back of the new complex. I went there last Friday to enjoy 'grillen' at a Grill Party.

Grillen is as much a part of German culture as beer and  'die Bratwurst' = grilled sausage. This is traditionally eaten with a bread roll and mustard = Senf. I like my Bratwurst well grilled. Here you can see our Hausmeister = caretaker, getting the Wurst nice and brown.

I met a number of neighbours and chatted with them as I chewed away on my Wurst. There was a range of soft drinks available but most people drank hot 'Glühwein' = mulled wine. This is also a traditional  drink, particularly over the Christmas period. If you get the chance, try it!

Beerdigung

Die Beerdigung means a funeral in English. I went to one this morning. It was for Andreas who died nearly a month ago. He was only 50 and died peacefully in his sleep. I was told his heart just stopped. Still a shock for someone so relatively young.

I got to know him via the local SPD. He joined when he was 18 and had clear opinions, even when other members were not too happy with his views! He was very much his own person. He also owned a local bar-restaurant for many years. He recently sold it and moved into a nice large flat with his wife.

I think I told you that I met her recently and produced a photo of Andreas in a frame. This was on show this morning at his funeral service. I had to smile as I saw many people take photos of it surrounded by flowers. The chapel was full and the speech about his life was interesting. There was not a religious service for he was an atheist.

We shall miss you Andreas at future meetings and waiting to hear your views. It was a pleasure to know you and talk to you.

Spoken Rubbish

Time to cringe again. Here are a few examples taken from BBC Radio 4 news reports. Relax, sip something nice as you read the rubbish and maybe it will make you smile :-)

People can’t cook food for their table/ a number of hugely positive things/  we need a something in place/ to grow an economy/ to grow a brand/

 a backstory/ a net positive for people/ people can be disappeared/ since I done it/ when you originated this plan/ 

we are enforcing against that/ there is properly public interest/ joined up government thinking/ he is never actually engaging on this issue/ the rocket suffered an issue with a booster/

 a daily drift feed/ his injuries were un-survivable/ you’ve got to grow the pie first/ I think we’ll know an answer/ I’m not gonna blame fault/ it’s a deeply important step.

Good News

I have some good news. Shirley and family in Florida are okay and safe. Both Jan and I had contacted her for we were worried about the arrival of  hurricane 'Michael'. She was able to e-mail that they had survived the worst, but there was a lot of damage in the areas hit be the storm. Phew! - what a relief to read her words. For us the most important thing was that they were all safe. Take care of yourself Shirley and family and thanks for the quick and informative reply.

After my usual two appointments at the AWO yesterday morning I met my SPD Oldies. We then went to the Catholic High School in the district where I live. It was for an organised tour of the building. It is a listed building due to its architecture. I found it very interesting to listen to the concepts about building styles in the 1920s expressed in its architecture.

It started life as a hospital surrounded by trees and parkland. It continued as a hospital over the years until 1991 when it became a High School. It is mainly financed by the Berlin government and is one of three specialist educational centres. It specialises in training young people to work in all branches of health care. Good work and long may it continue.

That evening I relaxed in front of my TV to watch Germany play France at football. We (that means most of Germany) were hoping for a better show than the recent defeat against The Netherlands. We were disappointed. Germany lost 2:1. Percy was watching the game with me through his big glasses. When the final goal was scored he fainted with shock and he fell onto his glasses as you can see in the photo. Poor Percy - but at least his glasses are not broken, which is good news :-))

Happy Family

Monday was a bonus day for me. I had to rush to Alexander Platz for an appointment in the morning, then the S-Bahn to Savignyplatz, which is in the centre-west of the city. I arrived on time to see someone pushing a pram towards me. It was Jan with Emma!!

He had called the day before to say the family were in Berlin and could we meet on Monday. I said, "Yes" immediately. As they came closer I noticed a beautiful little girl with wavy blonde hair sitting in the pram and smiling at me. I just `melted`. Emma is growing up quickly but I did not try to pick her up then. We had to get to know each other again so I made funny faces and made her smile. Then all was okay.

I was allowed to push the pram around the area until we found a restaurant with seats outside. I noticed people looking at me, then at the baby, and I was sure I could see them thinking,`Is he really the father?`I just smiled and kept pushing the pram. A really proud `Opa`. We had lunch and played with Emma and her doll named after her. See the photo.

Here is a photo of the proud parents. What a great couple they are. We had time to chat before
I had to head for another S-Bahn and my regular appointment on a Monday afternoon. I had a wonderful feeling as I said goodbye to all and particularly to my beautiful little Emma!

Erkner again

I've had a very interesting and enjoyable day with Imre and our bicycles. I arrived at S-Bahn Schönewiede as planned. Imre was waiting for me. We bought tickets for the bikes and jumped into an S-Bahn heading south. Then we heard an announcement that due to repair work there would be no service after 2.00 pm. Imre swore as I looked at him and told him to get out.

We did just that and returned to where we had started. I then said I had a plan and took over the journey. We cycle to Wühleheide Park which is not too far from where I live. We ended up near the children's play area. It was full of young families and great to see so many happy faces. We decided to join the kids in a queue for chips with ketchup. Very tasty.

We then picked up the S-Bahn to Erkner. As you know, it is one of my favourite areas east of Berlin and I spent the day there yesterday - see last post. I remembered cycling through the town to a river system leading to a lake, but that was many years ago. Even so, as I cycled and followed my instinct it was clear I was in the right direction. Lots of cycling through woods turning golden brown until we reached our destination.

We arrived at a village called Woltersdorf and stopped at the lakeside. There were many people there enjoying the sunny warm weather. Again lots of young families and children in queues for ice cream! I went to a restaurant overlooking the lake where I had been to before. I enjoyed a plate of local fish washed down with a cool German dry white wine. Delicious!

It was then time to return. We took another route back to Erkner then the S-Bahn back to my station. Farewell to Imre, cycled home and looked at the photos I had taken today. Here are some of Lord Imre and his big smile :-))

Quick Update

It's been a busy week. One surprise was yesterday. I watched the German football team play The Netherlands with increasing disbelief as the German team slid to a 3:0 defeat. It was like watching them play badly in the recent World Cup games. Time for new, younger players, particularly in defence.

I spent all day yesterday at a conference-workshop in a hotel in Erkner. This is a very nice town to the east of Berlin and one of my favourites to visit. It was organised by the district SPD and the topic was The Future of the EU. One of the main speakers was our local MEP who spoke very clearly about plus and minus aspects.  I learnt a lot and it was nice to spend time with interesting fellow members.

After the conference, some of them went to the centre of the city to support a demonstration. Was that a surprise in numbers. On Friday we heard reports that up to 40,000 would attend. Yesterday reports said nearly 250,000 people marched through the centre of the city to protest against the rise of right-wing populist politics and parties both within Germany and in the EU.

I think the fine sunny weather must have played a role in bringing so many people onto the street. It is forecast to continue into the new week. The sun is forcing its rays into my place as I type these words. I shall now get ready, pump up the tyres of my bicycle and later join Imre for a day out. We are heading for an area to the south of Berlin. I'm looking forward to a day of movement following a day of sitting yesterday! Have a nice Sunday no matter where you are.

A Cherub

Do you know what this word means in English? Yes, so what is it in German? Ahhhhh...ahhhh. It means die Putte. I met my Kowalke Gang yesterday to have a long lazy breakfast at Putte's new flat. Some posts ago I told you about having such a meal at her house in Mahlsdorf in the east of Berlin.

She sold it and moved into a new flat also in Mahlsdorf. I like it and would be very happy to live there. When we arrived she was dozing in the sun in the front garden. The table was full of delicious things to eat and so we caught up on news as we enjoyed the meal. Putte is on  the right of the photo.

I was told that her mother gave her the nickname 'Putte' when she was a very small girl. Family and friends have used it ever since. At the end of the meal we raised a glass to toast Colin and Gerald, who for different reasons could not be with us. Pity for they would have enjoyed the food and atmosphere.

The main events in Germany took place last Wednesday. It was a public holiday to celebrate German (re-)Unification. I think every village, town and city was full of people celebrating in different ways. There were a lot in Berlin including a range of sporting events. I had a lazy day with a bicycle trip through my local park and watching kids/families enjoying the day. I also went to all my usual meetings plus a few more.

This month our block of flats will get a new coat of paint. The workmen have already covered the front with scaffolding and will complete the rest tomorrow. I/we have cleared my/our balcony/ies so they can be painted. The work should be completed by the end of this month.

Here you can see what the front looks like. My place is on the second floor to the left of the photo. Slightly right of that you can see a small window. That is my bathroom. Half of the flats were painted last month so now it is our turn.

Next week I have my usual meetings plus the first of 6 physio sessions. I had them before. A specialist suggested I had more. The problem is my spine and collapse of some discs. When I ask why the docs tell me it is because I am no longer 21. They always smile when they say that!

October 2018 Things

The last day of September. It has been a good month for me and I have enjoyed the last week too. Today I put flowers on Birgit's grave and sang 'Happy Birthday To You'. It would have been her 66th birthday. I was with her son and small granddaughter. Nice to have shared the event with them. It was also the anniversary of my father's death. They share the same day but for different reasons.

Now looking through my diary to see what is waiting for me in October. The weather forecast is for the arrival of autumn from tomorrow. Must find warm pullovers and jackets. On the 3rd of October we shall enjoy a national holiday to celebrate German Unification. On Saturday I am meeting my Kowalke Gang to catch up on news over a long late breakfast!

I start my Photoshop course with Stefan on Friday 12th and a day later I shall be in a full day SPD conference in a town east of Berlin called Erkner. One of the SPD Oldies died recently. His wife asked me to prepare a photo to show at his funeral on the 18th. I have done this and just need to print it out. Apart from these things, October is full of the usual monthly meetings with different people and organisations to enjoy as we settle into autumn.

Who has a birthday in October?  My nephew Andrew will be 41 on the 5th and celebrate with his family in Addingham - it's not far from Silsden.  Nephew Warren will be 42 on the 12th and celebrate with family and friends in Silsden.  Bro2 will be all of 16 on the 13th and celebrate in Berlin. On the 14th my dear sister Frances will be 72 - and again the celebration will be in Silsden.  Falk from my Muggelsee Gang has a birthday on the 15th. My old friend Marita, who now lives opposite my place, will be 68 on the 21st. Sure to be a nice party with a few glasses of sekt! Dianne B. in Keighley will be 72 on the 27th and 'Family Sister' will celebrate her 10th birthday in Berlin on the 28th. Tanya B. in London ends the month with her 54th on the 31st October.

Other dates: 11th October marks my father's funeral, the birthday of Tessa who sadly took her own life, and is the same day when my good friend Hermann died just one year ago. The 29th marks the death of my mother in 1967. She was only 49. I often wonder how my life would have been different had she been there to advice, comment and share as I got older. Perhaps I would have made less mistakes and gone off in other directions. Who knows? I have always missed her. I was too young to lose her.

Cycle South

Yesterday I met Imre for a bicycle tour. Earlier I had an appointment with a doctor specializing in spine and collar bone problems. It was my second appointment. I arrived at 10.00 am and waited, and waited! The place was full of 'Oldies' many of whom were bent over and/or could hardly walk. At 11.10 am I decided to forget it and put my coat on.

I had agreed to meet Imre at 11.30 am at a local station to take the S-Bahn south to our destination. As I walked to the door the doctor's assistant called my name. My meeting with the Doc took about 5 minutes. She looked at my X-Rays and explained what the pictures meant. I got a prescription to have 6 meetings with another practice for stretching and bending sessions.

I left for home to pick up my bicycle. I called Imre and explained what had happened. He said he would wait. One hour later than agreed, I arrived at the station and we got into an S-Bahn. I took this photo of Imre with bicycle number 3. He said he had not brought any of his 3 cameras. He seems to have 3 of many things! I told him I had my camera and that was enough.

We headed south to a town called Zeuthen. A very nice area of rivers, lakes, woods and a mixture of houses and villas on the waterfront. As I looked at the large private villas with gardens and berths for boats, I wondered what one would cost and who actually lived in the properties. I think we are talking at least a few million for such a property.

The weather was pleasant with late summer sun so Imre decided we should start the tour with a stop at a local bakery where we ate fruit cake and sipped coffee. We then started a tour of the area with lots of stops to enjoy the scenes. At one stop we got into an interesting conversation with a lady who told us what it was like to live in that area in the period of the DDR. I wondered if she lived in one of the villas but did not ask her!

On and on we cycled until we came to our return S-Bahn station. Opposite was a bar with a large garden so we relaxed there and I enjoyed a very cool local beer. Imre does not drink alcohol so he always enjoys fruit drinks. A nice way to end the cycle tour and slowly head home.

Papa and Son

I had the pleasure of welcoming Father and Son(2) to my place this week. I got a call from Papa and we agreed to meet on Monday morning. He wanted new photographs to send to family and friends. Why? Look closely and you can see that he is now sporting a moustache and 'chin' beard.

He said that both sons had told him to grow a beard and he finally gave in but not a full face beard. I told him the boys had also said their 'Opa' should also grow a beard but I told them I only had grey/white hair now and looked like Santa Claus' grandfather! No way.

It was nice to sip a cup of tea with Papa and catch up on news. I took a range of photos with and without a tie and jacket. Difficult to choose which one to share but I think this one may be the best.

Two days later Son(2) rang the bell and came for a visit. He needed help. He had a document from his school about a 'Praktikum'. This is period when students get work experience to help them choose a job when they leave school.

As I have told you before, the family does not have internet or TV where they live and so Son(2) came to me to use my system. He went onto the internet and we quickly found a number of companies offering the kind of training he was interested in. Then we had to contact each company via e-mail. That was when the problems started.

He uses Gmail but in Persian. He had lots of problems to reformat so he could write his applications. I printed out his work and we noticed it was a mix of the two languages and layouts. We still sent them out and hope he will be successful in finding a suitable Praktikum place. Nice to see him again and note how easily he used the computer :-)

Mr. Curtains

As mentioned in my last post, Daniel arrived yesterday afternoon. He immediately placed a drill  onto the table. I opened my toolbox for the screwdrivers and other things he needed. 'Mr. Curtains' then dismantled my damaged curtain rod and started work.

He measured the old and new rods and decided to put the new one into the old drill holes. But, he had to drill them deeper and wider for the new screws were larger. Lots of work with different screwdrivers and finally we were able to put the curtains onto the new rod and then place it above the doors leading to the balcony. Well done Mr Curtains and thanks!

It was then time for a cup of tea and to relax. Later I went through some of his English homework and noted that he had almost all exercises correct. I think he could do the FCE exam now, but he wants to settle into life at university, which starts next week, and do the exam early next year.

I had a 'normal' week and enjoyed the late summer. This came to an end yesterday evening with high winds, dark clouds and gusts of wind. The forecast for tomorrow is cool and rain and for the rest of the week. At least the trees, plants and flowers will be happy about that.

 I had planned to go on a bicycle tour tomorrow to the south of Berlin with Imre. We have just spoken to each other and cancelled. We shall meet next Wednesday for lunch in Alexandra Platz. Hope the sun will have returned by then.

Percy and Speakers

I told you I had problems with my old speakers on my new computer. Last Friday I went into a local electrical shop and looked at a range of speakers. I was surprised at the price range. I took my time to look at all on offer within my budget then asked an assistant for advice. He agreed with my choice so I bought them. You can see them here in front of the computer.

Daniel arrived on Saturday morning. He helped to replace some runners on curtains. Next visit he will bring a drill and new curtain rail. The one in the kitchen needs to be replaced. After that we discussed a plan for our next meetings to prepare him for the FCE examination. I then gave him a set of grammar tests. He got 95% correct! Remember that English is his fifth language.

I did some shopping after he left then decided to tidy away some things as we say goodbye to summer. I wondered where to store my sunglasses when I heard a squeaky voice. It was Percy the Penguin. He flipped the glasses onto his nose, said he would look after them over winter and jumped off the balcony. See you next Spring, Percy!

Early Sunday afternoon I had visitors, Yes, the 'Boyz' arrived. They just wanted to 'chill out' and watch a DVD on my system. First they helped me to switch computers on my desk. Not easy with so many wires and connections but they did it all in five minutes. Reward was coffee and slices of fruit cake. They found a film they wanted to see and settled down.

Meanwhile I prepared some food in the kitchen and made sure they had enough fruit juice and water to go with the meal. After a break for the meal, they returned to the film and chocolate pudding. Here you can see a shot of them enjoying the pudding. The film was in English and Bro2 kept stopping it in order to ask me what some words meant.

One was, 'What is the difference between hug and cuddle' I explained but noted they did not understand so I got Bro2 to stand up and I gave him both. Then he said, "Now I understand!" with a big smile on his face and gave me a cuddle :-)

After the film we just chatted. Mainly about school and careers. We also talked about the latest political situation. You probably know about the recent demonstrations and rise of the political right wing. The Boyz said they knew about this. And so it came time to say goodbye. They left with crisps and bananas in case they felt hungry on the way. As we moved to the door they turned and said," A cuddle please."They learn quickly!

Scaffolding

Rather late with this post. Since the last one I have returned to most of my routines and meetings. For example: Monday and Tuesday last week saw the start of new English lessons at the AWO. I didn't have to say much for the members just talked, and talked about their summer and all the interesting things they had done and places they had been too. Very nice to listen to them,

I also met Daniel on his return from seeing family in Moldova and a 'special lady'!. He looked very healthy and happy. We talked about a study plan and sources to get him through the Cambridge First Certificate examination. On Wednesday I did some necessary paperwork then had a visit from the ex-sailor who taught me to steer his boat many years ago. It was nice to see him again and catch up on news of his extensive family. Now he talks more about his great-grandchildren rather than his grandchildren!

That evening I joined a Labour Party International meeting online using a programme called Zoom. Perhaps some of you know this. Thursday evening I relaxed in front of my TV to watch the Germany - Peru football match. The German team won 2:1 and it was a very good match. On Friday I went to Kerstin's Oldie Keep-Fit Gang and enjoyed that. I spent most of the weekend on my bicycle or on public transport visiting different place outside Berlin.

You know that I bought a new computer recently. I have been having problems with the stereo system so I took the computer back to the shop yesterday and they checked it with three different systems. All worked OK. Seems the problem is my stereo system which I shall have to replace. This evening I have my local SPD meetings and tomorrow afternoon I shall meet Daniel to look at what he has done in the last week.

What has this to do with scaffolding? Two days ago a group of men started to erect scaffolding on the flats making up the block where I live. When complete the painters will arrive and by the end of October we shall all emerge with new gleaming colours on the walls. We have to clear our balconies which from the photo you can see I have done. Now it is only a question of time before the scaffolding arrives on my walls!

Last Summer Concert

I met my Kowalke Gang last Sunday at Ostbahnhof (East railway station.) We jumped onto the RE1 train for just over an hours railway journey to Stadt Brandenburg. Nice to see all again and catch up on news.

We decided to walk to the central area to the Dom (The Cathedral). The weather was pleasant as we slowly marched towards our goal. Near the island area on which the Dom was built 700 years ago, we stopped at a restaurant. We had booked a table earlier so sat in a corner with a clear view onto a river/bay.

Most of us ordered fish for the area is well known for the variety of fish and ways of cooking them. I enjoyed mine with a cool glass of white wine before we started again on our journey. We arrived at the Dom and got our tickets for the last summer concert there.

We entered the cathedral and founds seats at the back. The concert was three pieces of music written by Franz Schubert. The concert was sold out and most of the audience were over 60! It started with Symphony No. 4 followed by his Magnificat and ended with his Stabat Mater.

The music was played by the Brandenburger Symphoniker and the choir was the Brandenburger Kantatenkreis. We settled into the concert and then all suddenly paid attention to the soprano. A truly individual voice. Strong and effortlessly moved up and down the musical scale as well as loud to soft and with no strain or effort in her voice.

 I was surprised that I had not heard of her before. Her name is Eva Friedrich and if you ever have the chance to listen to her sing then rush out and buy a ticket. I do no know why she is not known around the world!

We slowly walked back to the station and the train to Berlin. We all talked about how good the concert was and the soprano. A really enjoyable day to mark the end of summer.

Wasserfest

I left the Fire Brigade Party and took the S-Bahn to Rummelsburg. It is two stops away and a sub-district located on the River Spree, which flows through Berlin. There is a nice promenade on the side of the river called the Rummelsburger Bucht (bay or cove in English). You can see this in the photograph above. And there I went to enjoy the annual Water Festival.

There were lots of stalls from local organisations plus some selling grilled sausages but only one selling beer. There was always a queue there :-)) The local museum had a stall and I had registered to help them. I did just that for a couple of hours. Here is a photo of the stall with the lady in the middle who heads the museum support group.

From there I went to the SPD stand which was next to the museum stall. There I helped out. This included helping children to turn the wheel you can see in the photo. There were three win points all marked by 'SPD' in red. The kids turned the wheel and did not notice that as it slowed I stopped it on one of the red 'SPD' win points. The kids all won prizes and were really happy. Some parents noticed that I was cheating for the kids but said nothing. They just smiled!

From there I walked to some boats with a group of SPD members who climbed into one. There were other teams and all raced across the bay. We did not win but all had a great time and enjoyed the event. In the photo you can see some of the SPD rowers leaving the boat. A really happy event with sunny weather and lots of families with smiling children. A great way to spend an afternoon.

Fire Brigade

This means Feuerwehr in German. I left home last Saturday afternoon and noticed lots of people and loud music at the end of my street. I wondered what was happening. I walked there to discover lots of people, many were young families with children, enjoying a 'Fest' = a festival or party in English.

It was the local Fire Brigade Festival when they open the doors to the public. In the photo you can see a nice old redbrick building. This is my local fire station. Behind it is a large green, garden area and once a year there is a party.

Lots of music, some live, lots of stalls selling mainly food and drinks and play areas for children. There were also demonstrations by firemen/women to show the public how they work. They are held in great respect in Berlin for we all know how we depend on them when we need their help.

September 2018 Things

Ooops but I made a mistake a month ago and didn't notice. I forgot to post about August 2018 Things! Liebe Andrea sent me an e-mail recently saying I had forgotten and that she missed all the information about who had a birthday or event, during that month. And so I begin this month on time with the correct starter post.

Yesterday I met the Kowalke Gang for a very pleasant evening. We had three extra members, two of whom are visiting from Australia. We went to our district hospital which is situated in a very large park. It is also one of Berlin's oldest hospitals.  I am an ex-patient.

We met at the large fountain in front of the main office building. We were led by a musician who directed us to 10 sites to see dance and dramas with more music. It was based on the musical concept called 'Pictures at an Exhibition' by Modest Mussorgsky. The event took place in some of the park areas and in old buildings, such as the museum.

The second stop was at the war memorial where the dialogue was about War and Peace. We then went into the chapel to see scenes from Faust with additional organ music. In an area called the Labyrinth we watched a dance performance. There were 10 such stops in all with a 20 minute break for refreshments in the middle. A very interesting evening made special by bringing us all together.

This afternoon I am going to an area called the Rummelsburger Bucht for a water festival. It is a harbour area on the River Spree, which as you know flows through Berlin. There will be boat races, swimming competitions and lots of places for snacks and something to wet your throat! There are also information booths including one from the SPD and our local museum. I was asked to help on both so that is my duty for the day.

Who has a birthday or special day in September? Lynne in Cas starts us off with her 71st birthday today. Sure she'll have a happy day with Alan. Three people share the 6th. Charlotte will be 27 in London, Nevand hits all of 14 in Berlin and Arancha will celebrate her 34th in The Netherlands with Jan and Emma. Jan's sister Andrea will be 33 on the 8th and will celebrate with Marco. David K. who is an active local member of the Young SPD will be 18 on the 12th. In a recent conversation he admitted he did not have tie. We agreed to meet for me to buy him one. My nephew Stephen in Cambridge will be 48 on the 22nd and Robert G, will be 40 and celebrate with his family in Berlin. Sylvana celebrates her 58th with Mathias and family in Berlin on the 25th. Stepen's father is called Lew and will celebrate his big day with my sister Pauline in Cambridge on the 27th. An old friend called Sylke will be 48 on the 28th and celebrate with her family here in Berlin, My nephew Jefferson hits 45 on the 29th and will be sure to celebrate with his family. And so his big day ends the list of those with birthdays to celebrate with family and friends. Happy Birthday to all and each and have a great day no matter where you are!

There are three memorials. Birgit's funeral took place 14 years ago on the 15th. I can't believe it was so long ago. Her birthday is on the 30th September. She shares this day with my father who died on that day in 2004.  On the 16th my cousin Jean died and how she has been missed over the years.