Today marks my mother’s 74th birthday, and as I sit down to write this, I find myself filled with a quiet kind of gratitude. It’s the kind that settles deep inside when you realize how far someone has come and how much they’ve endured just to be here today. My mother has seen more than… Continue reading Happy 74th Birthday, Mama!
Tag: Germany
How Inflation Impacts Everyday Life in Germany
Lately, I’ve found myself thinking a lot about how prices have changed. It’s not just in my head — everything really is more expensive than it used to be. Inflation is a word we hear all the time, but for many people it sounds like something distant or abstract. In reality, though, it’s one of… Continue reading How Inflation Impacts Everyday Life in Germany
Brexit and What It Means for Britain, Germany, and Europe
When Brexit first became more than just a political debate and turned into reality, I remember feeling like the ground in Europe shifted. For decades the idea of Europe had been one of unity, cooperation, and shared prosperity. Then suddenly, the United Kingdom decided to walk away from the European Union, ending nearly half a… Continue reading Brexit and What It Means for Britain, Germany, and Europe
Church Tax in Germany: Faith, Money, and the Quiet Exodus
In Germany, being part of a recognized religious institution—mainly the Catholic or Protestant church—comes with a financial commitment known as the Kirchensteuer, or church tax. It’s a unique system that’s been in place for decades, and it surprises many, especially newcomers or those not deeply involved in religious life. While for some it’s just another… Continue reading Church Tax in Germany: Faith, Money, and the Quiet Exodus
Sunday in Germany: The Quietest Day of the Week
If you’ve ever spent a Sunday in Germany, you probably noticed something felt… different. The streets are quieter, the shops are shuttered, and the entire pace of life slows down to a near standstill. For newcomers, it can be a bit of a shock. While Sundays in many countries are full of shopping trips, errands,… Continue reading Sunday in Germany: The Quietest Day of the Week
Why Germany Is Still Struggling with Digitalization – A Real-Life Look from Finance
Working in Germany, especially in a field like Finance, often feels like stepping into a strange paradox. On one hand, you’re in one of the most advanced economies in the world—known for its precision, engineering, and efficiency. On the other hand, daily tasks can feel like they belong in the 1990s. If you’ve ever had… Continue reading Why Germany Is Still Struggling with Digitalization – A Real-Life Look from Finance
Unsettling Times: A Wave of Bankruptcies in Germany
Something feels different walking through the streets of many German towns and cities today. Familiar stores are gone. Once-busy clinics have locked their doors. Midsize companies, even some well-known names, have suddenly disappeared. In a country known for stability, it’s unsettling. More and more businesses—from fashion chains to auto suppliers, bakeries to hospitals—are declaring bankruptcy… Continue reading Unsettling Times: A Wave of Bankruptcies in Germany
Why Being Called “Ma’am” or “Sir” Matters to New Teachers in the Philippines
In the Philippines, becoming a licensed teacher is a huge milestone. It represents years of studying, personal sacrifice, and dedication. So it’s no surprise that many who pass the Licensure Exam for Teachers feel proud and want others to acknowledge their achievement. For some, this means asking to be called “Ma’am” or “Sir” right after… Continue reading Why Being Called “Ma’am” or “Sir” Matters to New Teachers in the Philippines
High Heels to Sneakers
There was a time when high heels were a part of my daily life. In the Philippines, wearing them to work felt natural, effortless even. I didn’t have to walk long distances, thanks to “pedicabs” (tricycles) readily available on every corner or the convenience of my husband dropping me off and picking me up. The… Continue reading High Heels to Sneakers
The Importance of Appointments in Germany
Germany is known for its efficiency, organization, and structured way of doing things. One of the best examples of this is the importance placed on appointments. Whether it’s a doctor’s visit, a meeting with a government office, or even a haircut, having an appointment is often necessary. Unlike some countries where you can simply walk… Continue reading The Importance of Appointments in Germany
Why Germany Has Fewer High-Rise Buildings
Germany is one of the most developed countries in the world, yet it has surprisingly few high-rise buildings compared to other major economies. While cities like New York, Shanghai, or Dubai are filled with skyscrapers, German cities mostly have mid-rise buildings and historic architecture. There are several reasons for this, ranging from cultural preferences to… Continue reading Why Germany Has Fewer High-Rise Buildings
Why Germany Is Falling Behind in Key Areas
Germany is often seen as a global leader in industry, engineering, and innovation. However, in several important areas, the country is struggling to keep up with other nations. While its economy remains strong, there are clear signs that Germany is lagging behind in fields such as digitalization, infrastructure, and education. Digitalization: A Slow Transition One… Continue reading Why Germany Is Falling Behind in Key Areas
My Love for Photography: Capturing Life’s Beautiful Moments
Ever since I first held a camera in 2008, photography has been a part of my life. Whether it’s with my current iPhone 14 Plus, my Samsung S21 Plus, or our Canon camera, I find joy in capturing moments that matter. Photography, for me, is more than just taking pictures—it’s about preserving memories, emotions, and… Continue reading My Love for Photography: Capturing Life’s Beautiful Moments
From Love to Allergy: My Unfortunate Breakup with Peanuts
I never thought I would have to say goodbye to peanuts. Growing up, they weren’t just a snack—they were a part of my everyday life. I didn’t care for the fried, cooked, dried, or flavored versions. My favorite was always the fresh ones, straight from the soil, still soft and earthy. I could eat them… Continue reading From Love to Allergy: My Unfortunate Breakup with Peanuts
Living in Germany for Over a Decade, But Still Not a Brot Lover
Living in Germany for over ten years, I’ve had my fair share of authentic local food. From sausages to pretzels, and of course, the countless varieties of brot (bread), I’ve experienced it all. But despite being surrounded by Germany’s bread-loving culture, one thing hasn’t changed: I still prefer rice. While most Germans start their day… Continue reading Living in Germany for Over a Decade, But Still Not a Brot Lover
My Love for Hawaiian Schnitzel: A Taste of Paradise
For the past decade, I’ve been living in Germany, and throughout this time, there’s been one dish that has never failed to satisfy my cravings—Hawaiian Schnitzel. There’s just something about the combination of tender schnitzel, sweet pineapple, and melted cheese that makes it feel like a slice of paradise on a plate. It’s not just… Continue reading My Love for Hawaiian Schnitzel: A Taste of Paradise
Traffic Laws and Public Behavior in Germany vs. the Philippines
Germany has some of the strictest and most well-enforced traffic laws in the world. The rules here ensure not just the safety of drivers and pedestrians but also maintain order, efficiency, and respect on the roads. One of the key aspects that differentiates Germany from countries like the Philippines is how traffic accidents are handled… Continue reading Traffic Laws and Public Behavior in Germany vs. the Philippines
Finding Balance: Cherishing Weekends and Generous Leave in Germany for Family Time
In Germany, where I work, I’ve come to appreciate something that may seem simple but has a huge impact on my life: weekends and generous vacation days. As an employee, having two days off every week and 30 days of annual leave has really improved my work-life balance, especially when it comes to spending quality… Continue reading Finding Balance: Cherishing Weekends and Generous Leave in Germany for Family Time
My German Learning Journey – Day 11 (Talking About the Future in German)
🔄 Focus for Day 11 🚀 A. Forming the Future Tense in German (Futur I) The German future tense is formed with the conjugated verb werden + the infinitive of the main verb. Formula: Subject + werden (conjugated) + rest of sentence + main verb (infinitive) Examples: Werden – Present Tense Conjugation: Pronoun werden ich… Continue reading My German Learning Journey – Day 11 (Talking About the Future in German)
Bella’s First Visit to Münster: A Day of Discoveries
July marked the second month of my mom and sister’s 90-day visit to Germany, and we wanted to make the most of their stay by exploring new places. One of our destinations was Münster, a charming university town with a mix of historical and modern attractions. It was Bella’s first time there as well, making… Continue reading Bella’s First Visit to Münster: A Day of Discoveries
