Germany -- here I come :-)

I should have written this experience of mine long ago -- but due to so many stuff to do -- this story has long been delayed -- and I feel sorry about.... but even then this story of my life is something I will never forget -- it will always remain in heart -- the faithfulness of God to me by giving me this wonderful experience that I only thought will only happened in dreams and then it happened to me -- all because of God's grace, blessing and faithfulness. Let me begin from the very start...... When I was young I dreamt of traveling/ seeing Europe -- to Germany first as I have auntie there who used to send us pictures of castle and books that shows those Gothic, Renaissance buildings which interest me the most. I enrolled in German class in 2005 -- and in 2004 -- two German students were in the University where I used to work with as Exchange Students Coordinator-- and then 2006 -- two new German exchange students came -- everything starts from there -- both become so close to me -- close to my heart -- both are my best friends -- of course in a different category ;-) And everything starts from there -- I told my friend I am planning and going to Germany to visit and see the family, the country, and to observe and experience other cultures. Auntie Ilona (my friend Christoph's mom) send me an invitation letter as for me to be able to go to Germany for the Holiday Season. After fervent prayers, I approached my boss for permission to go for a vacation for a month (at the time, I was only in the company for 9 months) -- answered prayer -- he allowed me and gave me the papers I need (endorsement, etc.). Completing the documents -- I was given an interviewed schedule -- scariest part -- the interview. My interviewer was very strict and doubtful that I was on his window for almost an hour. I received my passport after two weeks -- my visa application was denied. The results made me cry so much. However, my boss didn't want me to give up -- to quit. He encouraged me to make an appeal -- and with some help and endorsement -- I re-applied and appealed expressing my intent and honest interest -- and after 8 days -- my visa was granted. I knew it will be granted because God's favor was with me. Second problem: my fare -- i dont have ticket as i was supposed to be picked up for cheaper airfare -- but my uncle got tied up and that would meant I couldn't be picked up -- but God used somebody's heart for me to be able to go -- my godfather. One day before my flight (December 2) -- i got my visa -- and thus I canceled the original date -- i flew to Germany December 6.

December 7 -- I arrived in Germany -- long flight but a very good experience :-)

GERMANY

Germany is a federal parliamentary republic of sixteen states (Länder). The capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany is a member of the United Nations, NATO, G8 and the OECD. It is a major economic power with the world's fourth largest economy by nominal GDP and the fifth largest in purchasing power parity. It is the largest exporter and second largest importer of goods. In absolute terms, Germany allocates the second biggest annual budget of development aid in the world, while its military expenditure ranked sixth. The country has developed a high standard of living and established a comprehensive system of social security. It holds a key position in European affairs and maintains a multitude of close partnerships on a global level. Germany is recognized as a scientific and technological leader in several fields.

My First Step. I was greeted by the cold freezing wind. Actually, my first stepped in the land of Germany I wear no coat -- as I saw one of the passengers in sleeveless -- so I concluded it will not as freezing as I thought it will be -- I went down on the plane wearing just my shirt -- saying -- hmmmm.... it isnt cold then -- and smiling at myself. However, when I crossed the space between the plane and the bus that will transport us to the airport -- the wind blow on my body freezingly and when I got into the bus -- I was chillin. Immediately, I grabbed my jacket to cover myself as I could feel my hands were becoming numb. I was so excited getting out from the bus then ran on the lobby of the airport -- they the German at the immigration greeted me warmly with a smile welcome to Germany and saying enjoying my vacation. I walked slowly enjoying the modernity of the place then went to the baggage counter to get my stuff. I was excitedly expectant to see my Uncle and Auntie. I guess I was all smile and felt like in the cloud that I havent heard my Auntie calling me at the entrance. I was so ecstatic and praising God for this wonderful opportunity --as this is not a dream anymore -- I was really in Germany.

I was greeted with warm kisses and hugs from my Uncle and Auntie. My auntie wrapped me right away with a winter jacket and as she was worried about the cold asking if I was okay. Funny, I was perfectly okay and not even feeling a bit of tiredness. Since, I have all the energy -- from the Airport -- we just picked up our dinner at KFC (no rice nor gravy here) and went straight to "Weihnachsmarkt" (Christmas Market).

The experience was superb. I was so ecstatic then -- my eyes were so big and amazed watching those beautiful ladies in their winter clothes and the men looking great on their coat especially then two policemen. But it was the smell of Christmas that struck me the most. I began to realize that truly there is a smell of Christmas -- the breeze of the wind -- brought the fragrances of candies, food, nuts, etc. It was unexplainable. I was loving all the things I saw there at the Christmas market -- and wishing I could throw some of it to the Philippines.

My first night was awesome -- I loved the smell of Christmas -- and I became a child again. Enjoying the candies, the santas, the fruits, etc, etc. -- I grabbed the Gluehwein -- a hot wine -- and it smells so good to me in the cold winter night.

Afterwards we headed home and I slept peacefully and happy.... looking forward for the next days to come.