sich verabschieden

You know that feeling of being really calm? Not normal calmness. Extra calm, like at piece with things. As if at that moment everything crystallizes and the small things you see every day look new and perfect and endearing. As if tranquility were something tangible and you could wrap yourself up in it like a blanket. You can feel this calmness throughout your body when you stand still. Your legs feel strong but relieved, like you were ready to run really fast, and then found out the race was tomorrow. Your back is relaxed, like you are getting a massage from someone you love. Your mind is taking everything in and thoroughly enjoying it. You have no internal monologue, because if you talk, the feeling of serenity would burst like a soap bubble.

Walking to school today, I got this feeling. It's my last day in Radolfzell, and I feel great. I'm sad to be leaving all of the friends I've made here, and I'm sad to be leaving the beautiful area that I'm living it. But this could not be a more perfect feeling to have on one's last day. 

I got on the bus this morning and my bus card stopped working. I looked at the driver for a second and I figured that he'd make me pay for the ride. Then he turned to me and said (in German) "Do you need more time?" I explained that my card (very obviously) didn't work. He said "Do you have a question?" I explained again that my card didn't work and asked what I should do. He said again "Do you have a question?" but this time he gestured that I should just take my seat. He let me ride for free.

I got to town early, and all of the stores were just opening up, and it was kind of chilly and so beautiful. I walked into the store to buy some bread, and on the way, I stopped by a magazine stand and saw the owner's dog playing with a toy and it was so cute. I've seen this dog running around the stand every day and he looks so happy and content all the time. After that I walked through the town garden, and I realized how beautiful my every day life is and it almost made me cry.

On Sunday, we had a substitute Thanksgiving and everyone cooked something. I made jambalaya and we all got stuffed that day. After the meal, we all lazed around for a while. In the background however, Christian, a German roommate of Andy's, DJ-ed a little bit. Here's a taste of our after-dinner time.

So, in conclusion, I am leaving R'zell on the best of terms and I am excited to see Neubrandenburg and experience something new. Hopefully, also, in Neubrandenburg I will have more permanent internet access and I'll be able to Skype you all. Today's word is a verb and it means to say goodbye. And right now, I have to say goodbye to Radolfzell.