The final upload from Kiera's camera has been completed! We hope you enjoy the photos from all of our various activities.
France (Paris and Reims): http://www.flickr.com/photos/marylanddairy2008/sets/72157624449827526/
Luxembourg (host families, judging, sale, and Luxembourg City): http://www.flickr.com/photos/marylanddairy2008/sets/72157624325189883/
Germany (river cruise, vineyard): http://www.flickr.com/photos/marylanddairy2008/sets/72157624325287637/
Just want to browse? http://www.flickr.com/photos/marylanddairy2008/
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Maryland Soil!
Well all, I hope you have enjoyed following along on our European Adventures! We made it home to yet another heat wave. All team members have been successfully reunited with their very excited family members and are hopefully catching some much needed sleep at this hour. Our final alarm went off this morning at 5am in Germany (11pm here on the East Coast) and after checking our bags we found only two to be over the weight limit. VERY impressive considering all the awesome souvenirs that were purchased along the route. A long but uneventful plane ride and next thing you know we were having our shoes scrubbed down by US Customs. The long and short of it is that we had an amazing time and are still sorting out all the memories that were created over the past 14 days.
Thank you again for your support and participation in our efforts! More photos will be posted tomorrow!
Kiera
Thank you again for your support and participation in our efforts! More photos will be posted tomorrow!
Kiera
Monday, July 5, 2010
Morgan stay's with the Frisch's
I apologize in advance, my story is not to the caliber of Connie HA's.
So I stayed with Jean-Paul and Nicole Frisch - aka AMAZINGLY INCREDIBLE people. They live on a small farm-ette in the country where they have a Bernese Mountain Dog (Yahnna- I apologize for any spelling errors), cat (Fritzie), six hobby sheep (of a local endangered Luxembourgish breed), and a few rabbits that they will eat.
Fortunately I can say that my stay with the Frisch family was truly incredible and everything I had hoped it would be. I never expected to meet such wonderful people prior to Ms. Nicole picking myself and Ariel (from SUNY Cobelskill) up at the bus stop. Immediately I noticed the typical Luxembourgish way of FAST driving- particularly around corners. In a speedily fashion we arrived to their house. It's a beautiful older home that Mr. Jean-Paul has spent 10 years renovating (I have pictures!). Our first evening with them we hung out and immediately noticed some potential challenges in regards to communication. They were not completely fluent when it came to English, but we were always able to hold on conversations and eventually understand what each other was saying. Ms. Nicole is an absolutely adorable woman and loves her pictures, so immediately she began showing us photos of their sons, puppies, house renovations, friends etc. We had spaghetti for dinner, then went on a walk with their dog. This was very refreshing as we had been cooped up on a bus all day.
The next morning we woke up and had cereal and coffee with Mr. Jean-Paul, then headed to the show, where he dropped us off. It was a hot day, but we still had a blast helping with the sale heifers, judging a class of 8 animals, and getting to know some people in the dairy show circuit in Europe (I especially enjoyed talking to a few fitters and breeders). Also, each kid got to lead a heifer or two in the sale, and I think we all enjoyed this as we miss our animals at home. The girls would also like me to include one particular event that struck a cord with us; the CRAZY Limousin heifer. CRAZY. So a few of us are in the sale tent, getting a few heifers ready before they head to the sale ring when we see this loose beef heifer run into a wood fence right outside of our tent. This catches our attention, but not quite enough because before we know it she is SPRINTING into the tent like a mad woman (have a mentioned she is HORNED?) running into the sale heifers, and headed straight for us! So of course we scatter- Rocco leaps over a fence & falls on his tush, Mandi screams and hides behind Sam, Wolfgang and I get out of the way, then we try to help corner her (not super smart because she is absolutely psychotic). Then these Luxembourgish men show up with sticks and attempt to calm her down (NOT SUCCESSFUL). Eventually they corner her and get a rope around her horns and stroke her shoulder. We moved the baby heifers that so happened to be trapped behind her. These men tried to lead her away... only for her to become loose again and have the men fall on their behinds and a few signs, and barn sidings fall down. EPIC.
The next day was just as wonderful as the day before. We woke up and had breakfast with Mr. Jean Paul and Ms. Nicole (yogurt, toast & coffee). Mr. Jean-Paul then took us to Mr. JP's farm (a big time Luxembourgish dairy farm). This was quite enjoyable but I will most likely remember watching Mr. Jean-Paul and the baby calves- PRECIOUS. He absolutely loves animals, and was getting down with the babies talking to them and looked to happy. On our way home we stopped by a old castle (and took pictures!). At home we met up again with Ms. Nicole and ate a huge tasty lunch- zucchini soup, waffles & sugar, and strawberries :). Next we made a stop at Ms. Nicole's student's exhibition. If I haven't already mentioned she is a teacher of 3 & 4 year olds and she lives for this job (and actually makes enough money to support the whole family as Mr. Jean-Paul does not work). The exhibition was all about 'dinos' or dinosaurs. I LOVED it, and took so many pictures. Ms. Nicole immediately was filled with joy and pride when we entered the building and it was QUITE the exhibit. We then headed for Luxembourg city, and along the way we passed Emily's host families Highlanders (where Mr. Jean-Paul abruptly and quickly pulled over to the side of the road so we could take pictures. Once we arrived to the city we bought tickets to do a touristy train ride through the old city. It was incredible- it has the charm of Edinborough, the people kind of like London, and the architecture of Paris- I LOVED it and would so want to live near there if it was an English speaking town. We then walked around the city and stopped at a local bar to rest and talk for a little bit. One fun part of this adventure was the German soccer enthusiasts after winning the game. Blow horns, flags, dancing, chanting, and OLAY OLAY OLAY OLAy were included. Then came the barbeque with all the host families and kids. On our way in I saw a man wearing a purple Cinch shirt which made me miss Kansas! And of course the barbeque was filled with laughs and good times.
The list includes:
-Granny's piggy back adventures with Bruce
-Bruce's subject choice of photography
-the breakthrough of Happiness and Sunshine
-Andre's idea of promoting your "milk yield"
Sunday was my last day with the Frisch family and luckily enough for Ariel G and I, their son Michel came home from fishing of some islands. At 8:30 he and his girlfriend arrived and we began a croissant eating extravaganza. Then he and Ketchen took us to Belgium to see the Memorial at Bastogne. This was quite appropriate as it was the 4th of July. In Bastogne we made a pit stop at a local restaurant and got to know Michel and Ketchen a little bit better (he speaks phenomenal English). But we had one place that they required we attend; The local Bistro. On our way back over the border we made a stop to be in two places at once- Belgium and Luxembourg. So the Bistro is where all the local youth hang out from 11am-1pm on Sundays. It was AWESOME.
Sadly, we returned to the house to eat a wonderful traditional Luxembourgish lunch, then said our goodbyes. I will forever remember these truly special people and hope that I will be able to maintain a relationship with them for the rest of my life.
<3 Morgan. aka the Queen Duchess of Fluff.
p.s. it is late, so I am not proof reading this- I apologize. and Margot- I MISS YOU! :)
So I stayed with Jean-Paul and Nicole Frisch - aka AMAZINGLY INCREDIBLE people. They live on a small farm-ette in the country where they have a Bernese Mountain Dog (Yahnna- I apologize for any spelling errors), cat (Fritzie), six hobby sheep (of a local endangered Luxembourgish breed), and a few rabbits that they will eat.
Fortunately I can say that my stay with the Frisch family was truly incredible and everything I had hoped it would be. I never expected to meet such wonderful people prior to Ms. Nicole picking myself and Ariel (from SUNY Cobelskill) up at the bus stop. Immediately I noticed the typical Luxembourgish way of FAST driving- particularly around corners. In a speedily fashion we arrived to their house. It's a beautiful older home that Mr. Jean-Paul has spent 10 years renovating (I have pictures!). Our first evening with them we hung out and immediately noticed some potential challenges in regards to communication. They were not completely fluent when it came to English, but we were always able to hold on conversations and eventually understand what each other was saying. Ms. Nicole is an absolutely adorable woman and loves her pictures, so immediately she began showing us photos of their sons, puppies, house renovations, friends etc. We had spaghetti for dinner, then went on a walk with their dog. This was very refreshing as we had been cooped up on a bus all day.
The next morning we woke up and had cereal and coffee with Mr. Jean-Paul, then headed to the show, where he dropped us off. It was a hot day, but we still had a blast helping with the sale heifers, judging a class of 8 animals, and getting to know some people in the dairy show circuit in Europe (I especially enjoyed talking to a few fitters and breeders). Also, each kid got to lead a heifer or two in the sale, and I think we all enjoyed this as we miss our animals at home. The girls would also like me to include one particular event that struck a cord with us; the CRAZY Limousin heifer. CRAZY. So a few of us are in the sale tent, getting a few heifers ready before they head to the sale ring when we see this loose beef heifer run into a wood fence right outside of our tent. This catches our attention, but not quite enough because before we know it she is SPRINTING into the tent like a mad woman (have a mentioned she is HORNED?) running into the sale heifers, and headed straight for us! So of course we scatter- Rocco leaps over a fence & falls on his tush, Mandi screams and hides behind Sam, Wolfgang and I get out of the way, then we try to help corner her (not super smart because she is absolutely psychotic). Then these Luxembourgish men show up with sticks and attempt to calm her down (NOT SUCCESSFUL). Eventually they corner her and get a rope around her horns and stroke her shoulder. We moved the baby heifers that so happened to be trapped behind her. These men tried to lead her away... only for her to become loose again and have the men fall on their behinds and a few signs, and barn sidings fall down. EPIC.
The next day was just as wonderful as the day before. We woke up and had breakfast with Mr. Jean Paul and Ms. Nicole (yogurt, toast & coffee). Mr. Jean-Paul then took us to Mr. JP's farm (a big time Luxembourgish dairy farm). This was quite enjoyable but I will most likely remember watching Mr. Jean-Paul and the baby calves- PRECIOUS. He absolutely loves animals, and was getting down with the babies talking to them and looked to happy. On our way home we stopped by a old castle (and took pictures!). At home we met up again with Ms. Nicole and ate a huge tasty lunch- zucchini soup, waffles & sugar, and strawberries :). Next we made a stop at Ms. Nicole's student's exhibition. If I haven't already mentioned she is a teacher of 3 & 4 year olds and she lives for this job (and actually makes enough money to support the whole family as Mr. Jean-Paul does not work). The exhibition was all about 'dinos' or dinosaurs. I LOVED it, and took so many pictures. Ms. Nicole immediately was filled with joy and pride when we entered the building and it was QUITE the exhibit. We then headed for Luxembourg city, and along the way we passed Emily's host families Highlanders (where Mr. Jean-Paul abruptly and quickly pulled over to the side of the road so we could take pictures. Once we arrived to the city we bought tickets to do a touristy train ride through the old city. It was incredible- it has the charm of Edinborough, the people kind of like London, and the architecture of Paris- I LOVED it and would so want to live near there if it was an English speaking town. We then walked around the city and stopped at a local bar to rest and talk for a little bit. One fun part of this adventure was the German soccer enthusiasts after winning the game. Blow horns, flags, dancing, chanting, and OLAY OLAY OLAY OLAy were included. Then came the barbeque with all the host families and kids. On our way in I saw a man wearing a purple Cinch shirt which made me miss Kansas! And of course the barbeque was filled with laughs and good times.
The list includes:
-Granny's piggy back adventures with Bruce
-Bruce's subject choice of photography
-the breakthrough of Happiness and Sunshine
-Andre's idea of promoting your "milk yield"
Sunday was my last day with the Frisch family and luckily enough for Ariel G and I, their son Michel came home from fishing of some islands. At 8:30 he and his girlfriend arrived and we began a croissant eating extravaganza. Then he and Ketchen took us to Belgium to see the Memorial at Bastogne. This was quite appropriate as it was the 4th of July. In Bastogne we made a pit stop at a local restaurant and got to know Michel and Ketchen a little bit better (he speaks phenomenal English). But we had one place that they required we attend; The local Bistro. On our way back over the border we made a stop to be in two places at once- Belgium and Luxembourg. So the Bistro is where all the local youth hang out from 11am-1pm on Sundays. It was AWESOME.
Sadly, we returned to the house to eat a wonderful traditional Luxembourgish lunch, then said our goodbyes. I will forever remember these truly special people and hope that I will be able to maintain a relationship with them for the rest of my life.
<3 Morgan. aka the Queen Duchess of Fluff.
p.s. it is late, so I am not proof reading this- I apologize. and Margot- I MISS YOU! :)
july 4th and 5th in a nutshell
Ah well the last few days have been hectic and we cannot believe that tonight is our very last night of what has become a long and memorable journey to say the least.
JULY 4th
Happy Independence Day to us Yanks!
After a sad departure from our various host families, the gang reunited at 1pm on the bus. All of us were eager to share stories of our families and the experiences we shared with them; Connie HA's were our favorite by far, and after hearty laughs down the road everything was fine and ducky once again. Our first stop was at Luxembourg WWII American Memorial Cemetery. We learned that 5600 Americans are buried in this cemetery, and even General Patton currently rests there. We were overwhelmed with the staggering number of white cross headstones that were plotted across the lawns. There was also a stone turtle pool/fountain that is supposed to represent the everlasting life. Quieted with reverence, we felt a grave appreciation for all the lives given to our freedom. After that we headed for the hotel and caught a couple z's on the way. The hotel even provided an american style dinner for our 4th of july holiday. The hotel we got to was EPIC, equipped with terraces and spas! We spent most of our time in the pool and sauna with the dairy and livestock kids, and even enjoyed a detoxifying therapeutic foot station and singing showers as well. After getting all pruny we hung out for the rest of the evening and shared a few laughs before our last day.
JULY 5th
After breakfast this morning in the hotel, we headed off to little villages and Boppard where we visited small shops for German crafted souvenirs. The christmas shops and cuckoo clocks were among our favorites and we enjoyed a lunch of brautwurst and fries among other things. The town's architecture was cute and picturesque, in addition to its tiny shops and bakeries. Then we took a boat cruise on the Rhine River where we saw rugged landscapes and architecture. Luckily the air was cool and we enjoyed a relaxed little cruise with our feet pointed out to the water. When we got back on land, we got back in the bus to head to Alzey, for the Hauck wine tasting and barbecue visit. We all enjoyed tasting sips of the home fermented beverages, and then jumped into hearty helpings of pork chops, chicken, potato salad, pasta salad, cucumber salad and more! We came back to the hotel at the best western and our last night with the whole group is coming to a close as we now try to squish all of our clothing back into our crammed bags. Morgan apparently is an expert at this; all of you that are planning on going on a trip should see her to cram your belongings. Additionally, she will provide excellent words of fluff in your postcards. And of course the night ended with a pep talk from Connie Kuhlman, who seemed mildly impressed with our blogging abilities, because while she is a technology retard, she still knows how to put food on the table and take a piss in the morning; that's all that she needs to do.
And now for you and our own personal enjoyment here is some interesting quotes along the way:
-If you can't run with the big dogs you better sit on the porch.
-How nude were you? ...What part of nude beach do you not understand?!?!?!?
-SELF-INFLICTED
-The toilet was so low I had to basically suck my face in it just to use the damn thing.
-I got sailor legs this morning!
(Most of the quotes were semi-inappropriate to post, but we will feel free to share them).
Our early morning tomorrow may be bitter due to its start at 5am, but the memories of this trip will age just as sweetly as the wine.
Thanks to all of our donors, family members, and friends, for your support and for your comments over the last two weeks. We can't wait to see you all again and share even more of our stories and experiences. Our own personal thanks to the people that made this trip beyond memorable: Bruce our organized and comical coordinator, Margot our beloved tour guide and friend, Gordon our source of laughs and smiles, our host families and their hospitality and of course our own Connie the chaperone, for always being a HA.
JULY 4th
Happy Independence Day to us Yanks!
After a sad departure from our various host families, the gang reunited at 1pm on the bus. All of us were eager to share stories of our families and the experiences we shared with them; Connie HA's were our favorite by far, and after hearty laughs down the road everything was fine and ducky once again. Our first stop was at Luxembourg WWII American Memorial Cemetery. We learned that 5600 Americans are buried in this cemetery, and even General Patton currently rests there. We were overwhelmed with the staggering number of white cross headstones that were plotted across the lawns. There was also a stone turtle pool/fountain that is supposed to represent the everlasting life. Quieted with reverence, we felt a grave appreciation for all the lives given to our freedom. After that we headed for the hotel and caught a couple z's on the way. The hotel even provided an american style dinner for our 4th of july holiday. The hotel we got to was EPIC, equipped with terraces and spas! We spent most of our time in the pool and sauna with the dairy and livestock kids, and even enjoyed a detoxifying therapeutic foot station and singing showers as well. After getting all pruny we hung out for the rest of the evening and shared a few laughs before our last day.
JULY 5th
After breakfast this morning in the hotel, we headed off to little villages and Boppard where we visited small shops for German crafted souvenirs. The christmas shops and cuckoo clocks were among our favorites and we enjoyed a lunch of brautwurst and fries among other things. The town's architecture was cute and picturesque, in addition to its tiny shops and bakeries. Then we took a boat cruise on the Rhine River where we saw rugged landscapes and architecture. Luckily the air was cool and we enjoyed a relaxed little cruise with our feet pointed out to the water. When we got back on land, we got back in the bus to head to Alzey, for the Hauck wine tasting and barbecue visit. We all enjoyed tasting sips of the home fermented beverages, and then jumped into hearty helpings of pork chops, chicken, potato salad, pasta salad, cucumber salad and more! We came back to the hotel at the best western and our last night with the whole group is coming to a close as we now try to squish all of our clothing back into our crammed bags. Morgan apparently is an expert at this; all of you that are planning on going on a trip should see her to cram your belongings. Additionally, she will provide excellent words of fluff in your postcards. And of course the night ended with a pep talk from Connie Kuhlman, who seemed mildly impressed with our blogging abilities, because while she is a technology retard, she still knows how to put food on the table and take a piss in the morning; that's all that she needs to do.
And now for you and our own personal enjoyment here is some interesting quotes along the way:
-If you can't run with the big dogs you better sit on the porch.
-How nude were you? ...What part of nude beach do you not understand?!?!?!?
-SELF-INFLICTED
-The toilet was so low I had to basically suck my face in it just to use the damn thing.
-I got sailor legs this morning!
(Most of the quotes were semi-inappropriate to post, but we will feel free to share them).
Our early morning tomorrow may be bitter due to its start at 5am, but the memories of this trip will age just as sweetly as the wine.
Thanks to all of our donors, family members, and friends, for your support and for your comments over the last two weeks. We can't wait to see you all again and share even more of our stories and experiences. Our own personal thanks to the people that made this trip beyond memorable: Bruce our organized and comical coordinator, Margot our beloved tour guide and friend, Gordon our source of laughs and smiles, our host families and their hospitality and of course our own Connie the chaperone, for always being a HA.
Emily's stay
Hello from Emily, it has only been a day and a half away from my family, and I already miss their home and their company. My stay with them began with a walk around their home and looking at their beautiful animals. The Scheer Family consisted of Marc the father, Karen the Mother,and their 2 daughters. Nadean was the only daughter home so I spent most of my time with her, and she spoke very good English, because she went to New Zealand for 6 months to work on a dairy farm. Her excellent English really helped me understand what was going on and what her parents wanted to say to me about Luxembourg. Also the Scheer family had a kitty and a playful dog named Dior, who helped me learn that no matter what country you are in a dog will always be your companion. The Scheer family raises about 23 highlander cows, and has 2 horses named Beauty and Miley ( Miley was not named after Miley Cyrus, if you were wondering). Our first meal together consisted of some highlander meat ( One of their own), salad, bread, cheese, and fries. And for dessert we had chocolate moose. The whole meal was delicious.
The next day, I had limited time with my family because we spent all day at the Luxembourg national show, where I lead two sale calves in the Luxembourg International sale. Nadean even saw me lead my animals and translated the crazy auctioneer's lingo! The following day was a full day of viewing Luxembourg, and enjoying each other and learning about each others culture. First, we went to J.P.'s dairy farm, a well known Luxembourg farmer. His farm was very beautiful and clean and had cool collar's on the milking cows to determine how much food they needed to be fed. Next, we headed to Luxembourg City and saw the history of the city and beautiful scenery of trees, and old buildings. Then, we had Chinese food for lunch, I have no idea why, but the food was good and satisfied our hunger needs. After a nice stroll in the city we went to the lake for a nice cooling swim. The sun was shinning and the water felt great. For dinner we headed back to the show to have a barbecue with all the other families. The barbecue was really fun and I found out that Morgan's host family is good friends with my family which I thought was really cool. With a late night of fun, we head back home for my final night with the Scheer family. The last day together we went and got Belgium chocolate at a local store.(sorry family and friends we ate all of the chocolate so none is coming home with me.) Then for our final meal together we had homemade Lasagna, which was a perfect meal to end a stay with my Luxembourg family that I will never forget.
The next day, I had limited time with my family because we spent all day at the Luxembourg national show, where I lead two sale calves in the Luxembourg International sale. Nadean even saw me lead my animals and translated the crazy auctioneer's lingo! The following day was a full day of viewing Luxembourg, and enjoying each other and learning about each others culture. First, we went to J.P.'s dairy farm, a well known Luxembourg farmer. His farm was very beautiful and clean and had cool collar's on the milking cows to determine how much food they needed to be fed. Next, we headed to Luxembourg City and saw the history of the city and beautiful scenery of trees, and old buildings. Then, we had Chinese food for lunch, I have no idea why, but the food was good and satisfied our hunger needs. After a nice stroll in the city we went to the lake for a nice cooling swim. The sun was shinning and the water felt great. For dinner we headed back to the show to have a barbecue with all the other families. The barbecue was really fun and I found out that Morgan's host family is good friends with my family which I thought was really cool. With a late night of fun, we head back home for my final night with the Scheer family. The last day together we went and got Belgium chocolate at a local store.(sorry family and friends we ate all of the chocolate so none is coming home with me.) Then for our final meal together we had homemade Lasagna, which was a perfect meal to end a stay with my Luxembourg family that I will never forget.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
chelsea's stay
Well each of us will make one post each about our stay with our host families, but I know I speak for the group when I say that it was the best part of our trip thus far. I stayed with the Bosseler family in Wiltz, Luxembourg, which is a small village on this huge hill. My "dad", Arnaud, was a veterinarian for large and small animals, and he stayed involved in his work, constantly being on call in case of problems on local farms. He even told us that he would much rather perform c-sections all day then be out living and partying in the city. My mother, Marion was a sweet and talented women in cuisine, orchestra, sewing, and teaching. Needless to say I never went hungry during my time, always partaking in 4 course meals. She plays in the local orchestra and likes to sew magnificent costumes for all the children in the small plays. While she is not a teacher right now, she is very good at teaching languages and knows 5 (that I know of). My sister Aline was 18, and a wonderful dancer. It was very nice to have someone my age to hang out with and talk to. My brother Julian was 14 and he really liked animals, having rabbits, scorpions, insects, fish, a rat, lizards, and "the one thousand feet" insect (<--i think this was the name for a centipede lost in translation...but this thing wrapped around his hand and was about a foot long). The family had a beautiful estate with two dogs and some chickens.
Our first night we went to eat dinner at the Putz's, a family I became very close with as well. They had a daughter Natacha who was 20 and a son who was 17. They were very kind and made us a HUGE dinner full of fresh food. The next morning Natacha took us kids to the show in Ettelbruck, where we had to judge and help out before the sale. We walked around with her and got to know her really well. The class we had to judge was Holstein cows, and there were 8. I thought I did alright, up until our German judge put my last placed cow in 5th; that threw things off a bit. After helping out in the sale tent with the animals all afternoon, we got ready for the sale which started after 8. I was able to lead 2 small calves, one of which was the first of the sale going for 5,000 euros, while my second calf was 3200 euros. I really enjoyed helping out and talking with the fitters and herdsman of the cattle. The experience was truly rewarding.
The next day we woke up and the Putz's came again with our family to visit some local farms. We crossed the field in our back yard to go up to a dairy goat operation, which had over 600 goats. The farm milked 550 goats with a carousel milker that was able to milk 300 in one hour. He then showed us his greatest producing milker, who milks 16 liters! The next farm was a dairy farm, where the farmer was truly passionate about his cows. He had a dedication to them like one I haven't quite yet seen, and his milkhouse was beyond clean and organized. It was most likely cleaner than the bathroom in my house at home! Then we went to another dairy farm, which was smaller and had Belgian Blues on it. My dad Arnaud and Raol Putz do not like Belgian Blues, because of the risk and complications that occur with such high volume muscle. I'm no beef expert, but what they said made sense.
After another grand lunch we decided to go to the lake for a swim. Only Natacha, her brother and I went swimming, but the water felt great after such hot days in the sun! Apparently the lake is about 50meters deep, which is a longgg way down in american measurement. After that we went to the BBQ at the fairgrounds, where we saw all of the dairy kids with their host families. Natacha told me to try the keiswurscht, which is sausage with cheese inside...lets just say I'm glad I took her advice! After staying for a little while and conversing, the Putz's and my family headed to Luxembourg City. We met up with Arnaud's sister who lovesss to party. In the city was beautiful architecture and old buildings, whose history moved me. We went to this large concert by this spiritual rock band Kneudler in the open courtyard. Then we went to see the fort of Luxembourg, which Raol avidly described its background from the longg ago all the way to around WWI and WWII. (leave it to me, the history buff). Then we decided to go to the "disco" which is a club. I had lots of fun dancing with Aline and everyone for long hours of the night. We got home at 430am and went to bed at 5. (Some Luxembourg people will do this every weekend)!
After lunch the next morning (it was too late to eat breakfast) we packed up our things and went home, but not without seeing our dad's awesome vet office that existed inside his house! It was unbelievable with a waiting room, a surgery/examining room, and then a large medicine closet room. When they dropped us off there were teary goodbyes and as the bus pulled away I made the realization that no matter what location or what language is spoken,the people are the same. They had a natural goodness that made me feel at home, while away from home and I will never forget my stay with them.
Our first night we went to eat dinner at the Putz's, a family I became very close with as well. They had a daughter Natacha who was 20 and a son who was 17. They were very kind and made us a HUGE dinner full of fresh food. The next morning Natacha took us kids to the show in Ettelbruck, where we had to judge and help out before the sale. We walked around with her and got to know her really well. The class we had to judge was Holstein cows, and there were 8. I thought I did alright, up until our German judge put my last placed cow in 5th; that threw things off a bit. After helping out in the sale tent with the animals all afternoon, we got ready for the sale which started after 8. I was able to lead 2 small calves, one of which was the first of the sale going for 5,000 euros, while my second calf was 3200 euros. I really enjoyed helping out and talking with the fitters and herdsman of the cattle. The experience was truly rewarding.
The next day we woke up and the Putz's came again with our family to visit some local farms. We crossed the field in our back yard to go up to a dairy goat operation, which had over 600 goats. The farm milked 550 goats with a carousel milker that was able to milk 300 in one hour. He then showed us his greatest producing milker, who milks 16 liters! The next farm was a dairy farm, where the farmer was truly passionate about his cows. He had a dedication to them like one I haven't quite yet seen, and his milkhouse was beyond clean and organized. It was most likely cleaner than the bathroom in my house at home! Then we went to another dairy farm, which was smaller and had Belgian Blues on it. My dad Arnaud and Raol Putz do not like Belgian Blues, because of the risk and complications that occur with such high volume muscle. I'm no beef expert, but what they said made sense.
After another grand lunch we decided to go to the lake for a swim. Only Natacha, her brother and I went swimming, but the water felt great after such hot days in the sun! Apparently the lake is about 50meters deep, which is a longgg way down in american measurement. After that we went to the BBQ at the fairgrounds, where we saw all of the dairy kids with their host families. Natacha told me to try the keiswurscht, which is sausage with cheese inside...lets just say I'm glad I took her advice! After staying for a little while and conversing, the Putz's and my family headed to Luxembourg City. We met up with Arnaud's sister who lovesss to party. In the city was beautiful architecture and old buildings, whose history moved me. We went to this large concert by this spiritual rock band Kneudler in the open courtyard. Then we went to see the fort of Luxembourg, which Raol avidly described its background from the longg ago all the way to around WWI and WWII. (leave it to me, the history buff). Then we decided to go to the "disco" which is a club. I had lots of fun dancing with Aline and everyone for long hours of the night. We got home at 430am and went to bed at 5. (Some Luxembourg people will do this every weekend)!
After lunch the next morning (it was too late to eat breakfast) we packed up our things and went home, but not without seeing our dad's awesome vet office that existed inside his house! It was unbelievable with a waiting room, a surgery/examining room, and then a large medicine closet room. When they dropped us off there were teary goodbyes and as the bus pulled away I made the realization that no matter what location or what language is spoken,the people are the same. They had a natural goodness that made me feel at home, while away from home and I will never forget my stay with them.
Luxembourg Hospitality
Hi again,
Loretta and Kiera filling in for the crew while they are still with their host families. After a long day at the fair grounds yesterday, we decided to have a calm day and pick up 144 stamps to ready our postcards for the States with that completing most of the day time activities. The girls enjoyed the day with various activities with their host families. We gathered with the host families and team members at 8pm at the fairgrounds for a BBQ hosted by the Young Farmers Association. Great food, company and awards were enjoyed by all. The girls each received a certificate for participating in the event and a great thanks for leading and helping with the sale the night before. After much socializing and conversation we departed the group to catch the last train out of Ettlebruck to Luxembourg City. The team is being picked up at 1pm tomorrow and driving south to meet the chaperons and coaches at our hotel at 2pm. Then we head East to Germany. Expect host family updates soon!
Loretta and Kiera filling in for the crew while they are still with their host families. After a long day at the fair grounds yesterday, we decided to have a calm day and pick up 144 stamps to ready our postcards for the States with that completing most of the day time activities. The girls enjoyed the day with various activities with their host families. We gathered with the host families and team members at 8pm at the fairgrounds for a BBQ hosted by the Young Farmers Association. Great food, company and awards were enjoyed by all. The girls each received a certificate for participating in the event and a great thanks for leading and helping with the sale the night before. After much socializing and conversation we departed the group to catch the last train out of Ettlebruck to Luxembourg City. The team is being picked up at 1pm tomorrow and driving south to meet the chaperons and coaches at our hotel at 2pm. Then we head East to Germany. Expect host family updates soon!
Friday, July 2, 2010
A substitute post
Hi all,
Kiera and Loretta here. Apologies for not posting but it has been a whirlwind few days and wireless has proven a bit tricky. We write to you from Luxembourg City after having traveled across France with a stop in Riems to view the Cathedral and town on Thursday. A quick pass through Belgium led us into the Ardennes Forest area and our first host family stop. Chelsea, Emily and Morgan were all introduced to their host families at this first stop and Ariel met her family at the second. Nervous smiles and a lot of luggage accompanied the girls to their host family homes. (Amy - I got a picture of Lucy and the girls for you)
Friday started with a train ride to the town of Ettelbruck to attend the National Fair and Show. We met all the 4-H and FFA members there and they couldn't wait to tell each other about the adventures they had enjoyed so far. The consensus is that the people of Luxembourg are crazy drivers and love high speeds. A very long and hot day at the show was enjoyed by all as the crew was able to judge a class of cows and take care of the sale animals being sold that night in the First Annual International Sale in Luxembourg. Being able to lead and care for the animals really seemed to give everyone a taste of home that was certainly needed. The sale committee invited the tour group to lead the animals in the sale and each of our team members led two heifers all while avoiding a CRAZY Limousin on the loose. I'm sure they will have more on that later. The sale was a big success from our point of view with strong prices all the way through the 45 lots. The buyers receive a bottle of Champagne with each purchase and they play rock music between lots. Both are ideas that we think could be incorporated at home :-) After making sure that everyone was reconnected with their host families, we made the trip back to Luxembourg City.
Today is a free day for the team and their individual families, but we will all meet up tonight for a BBQ. More to come later as well as a full recap from each team member on their time in Luxembourg.
Loretta and Kiera
Kiera and Loretta here. Apologies for not posting but it has been a whirlwind few days and wireless has proven a bit tricky. We write to you from Luxembourg City after having traveled across France with a stop in Riems to view the Cathedral and town on Thursday. A quick pass through Belgium led us into the Ardennes Forest area and our first host family stop. Chelsea, Emily and Morgan were all introduced to their host families at this first stop and Ariel met her family at the second. Nervous smiles and a lot of luggage accompanied the girls to their host family homes. (Amy - I got a picture of Lucy and the girls for you)
Friday started with a train ride to the town of Ettelbruck to attend the National Fair and Show. We met all the 4-H and FFA members there and they couldn't wait to tell each other about the adventures they had enjoyed so far. The consensus is that the people of Luxembourg are crazy drivers and love high speeds. A very long and hot day at the show was enjoyed by all as the crew was able to judge a class of cows and take care of the sale animals being sold that night in the First Annual International Sale in Luxembourg. Being able to lead and care for the animals really seemed to give everyone a taste of home that was certainly needed. The sale committee invited the tour group to lead the animals in the sale and each of our team members led two heifers all while avoiding a CRAZY Limousin on the loose. I'm sure they will have more on that later. The sale was a big success from our point of view with strong prices all the way through the 45 lots. The buyers receive a bottle of Champagne with each purchase and they play rock music between lots. Both are ideas that we think could be incorporated at home :-) After making sure that everyone was reconnected with their host families, we made the trip back to Luxembourg City.
Today is a free day for the team and their individual families, but we will all meet up tonight for a BBQ. More to come later as well as a full recap from each team member on their time in Luxembourg.
Loretta and Kiera
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