Time out

The past weeks have been turbulent. And they were gone in the blink of an eye. Has it really been 3 weeks? I'm trying to pick up where I've left before I started my course. So many lovely blog posts to go through! And so many projects still to finish..

I've come to see a few parts of Berlin in another light during my stay there. My friend built such a comfy nest for me (and Mada), and we spent most evenings falling asleep while watching slightly unsubstantial tv shows (thanks to the unsurpassed invention of a timer). There were chaotic concerts by Mada exploring the piano at 3am, reparative lovely breakfasts, reunions with old friends, probably too many cigarettes and wine, and the desperate attempt to go shopping.

We spent a few evenings and a small fortune in one of those new old photo booths. It's just as good as old polaroids. Makes you happy within 4 minutes, smells like addled eggs though. 

This weekend we had time to properly acknowledge autumn's arrival, strolled through sunny streets with wintery jackets, watching our breath turn into little clouds. If it wasn't for all the beautiful colors I would believe we went straight from summer to winter, since the temperature has plunged dramatically. 
Time to start knitting some cozy scarfs again.

Off to Berlin

I'll be spending the next two weeks in Berlin. I was lucky enough to get my hands on a grand part-time job, and am sent to the capital for a substantial training course. Which I am so looking forward to.

But I must admit, I am in a sort of love-hate relationship with Berlin. (Warily) Love, because quite a few friends adore the city for so many reasons. And as they're telling me about its charms and the most awesome times spent there, I keep thinking, maybe I simply didn't get it yet.

Do you know this feeling creeping up when arriving at a new town? Those 10 minutes before your train stops at the main station? Buildings pass by, you catch a glimpse of some people. The weather sometimes plays a part in it, too. It could be about the smell, or what it feels like to take the subway. Or simply the way the first person you ask for directions might reply.

It's in those first moments that my prejudices are formed. I will either like or dislike the place. It takes a lot of effort (from both, my part and that of the city) to convince me of the opposite.

These first few minutes spent in Berlin have never made me feel particularly welcome or comfortable. Berlin feels too big to me, too versatile, too loose.

The good thing is, I've got some absolutely priceless friends over there, and one of them is kind enough to let me stay at her place. It'll be lots of sweatpants evenings with chocolate cakes and movies. And conversation over a good glass of wine (or two). Best times always. Maybe they'll shift my love-hate relationship with the capital a little.

I'll try to post from there. Have a happy week!

*picture by Giulia Bebe on flickr