Weihnachtsmarkt Favorites

When I first went shopping in Germany, I as VERY overwhelmed! It took a a lot of guessing and iTranslate uses to finally feel comfortable. Going to a Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas Market) is just as overwhelming. Not only is it large and packed full of people but its all in another language. Some people speak English but it is still nerve wrecking and intimidating trying to say " eine Krautschupfnudeln bitte" without sounding like an idiot. 

Christmas markets are full of amazing vendors selling yummy foods and treats, adorable Christmas trinkets and one of a kind items perfect to give as presents for the holidays. 

Here are some of my favorite things to get at a Weihnachtsmarkt. Now, at all Christmas markets sell these items but most do and be sure to try them out!

1. Weihnachtssterne/ Papierstern Lampenschirme (Star lantern)
You can not help but stare at the beautiful paper lanterns lit up around the vendor's stall. You can buy these anywhere from 5-15€. They can be lit by a light bulb or a small bundle of lights. 

2. Glühwein Becher (Glühwein mug)
Glühwein (or mulled wine) is always a favorite at every Weihnachtsmarkt. You can also get the kinderpunsch (the alcohol free version) which I actually like a lot better or the Eierpunsch (kind of like an eggnog). They are served in a special mug that is unique to each market. Many collect them or you can return to the vendor to get your deposit back. The deposit ranges between 1,50€-6€. 

3. Krautschupfnudeln is a harmonious blend of spaetzle, sauerkraut, speck (cured pork or bacon) and in some cases cheese. Whenever I see this amazing dish for sale, I run over and buy it. It is so amazing! I will have to master making it myself for when I move back to the States.
If you feel like you will not enjoy this feel, no worries! :) The market is packed full of amazing foods. I know you will find something delicious! 

4. Lebkuchen is a traditional German baked Christmas treat, somewhat resembling gingerbread. They are made into different shapes, ranging from circles to stars to squares. Some are plain or have chocolate or nuts on top.

5.  Gewürze (spices)
This year I was on the hunt for some fresh herbs and spices. Last year I bought some fresh ginger for my homemade gingerbread cookie recipe and it was a hit! I needed more ginger and wanted to get some other fresh ingredients for other recipes. Be sure to translate your list of spices into German before you leave the house. 
This year my list: ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, oregano, nutmeg, cayenne pepper (ngwer, Zimt, Kurkuma, Oregano, Muskatnuss, Cayennepfeffer) 

6. Räuchermann (incense smoke)
I started collecting these decorative incense burners a few years ago. Each figurine comes apart and holds a small incense cone. When lit, the smoke floats out of the figure’s mouth to make him look like he’s smoking. They are sold in many different styles and sizes. I like the more traditional ones best: craftsmen, miners, night watchmen but they do sell more modern ones like athletes and such.

7. Adventskranz (Advent wreath)
If you live near a blumen shop, I highly recommend ordering an advent wreath from them. That way you can pick out colors and support small, local businesses. If not, no worries :) You can buy one ready to go from a vendor at the Weihnachtsmarkt. One candle is lit on each Sunday in Decemeber, to represent the countdown to Christmas. Here is a bit more info on the Adventskranz. 

Fall Favorites

1. Babix Inhalat

I am all about finding a more natural way to better your health or help you body fight a sickness. I don't even have a bottle of tylenol in my home. I love Babix. I need to buy a huge box full to bring back to the States with me. I put a drop on Rand's clothes and it helps clean out his sinuses by essential oils. He smells like a chirstmas tree all day but it works!Babix is made of eucalyptus oil and pine needle oil.

How is it used Babix® inhalant N?

Two to four drops Babix® inhalant N be applied to a garment in the nose area (bibs, neckerchief, pajama collar or Schmusetier).

This may be repeated as needed every three to four hours.

The essential oils evaporate, are inhaled and enter through the mucous membranes in the organism.

In a gentle way the bronchi relaxes, dissolved mucus and promote expectoration.

2. Tartan stole

When we went to Scotalnd, I came across a gorgeous tartan stole in Edinburgh. I absolutely love wearing it. Now I just need some leather gloves to match my hat and stole and I will be set!

3. BORN boots

I bought some BORN boots 5 years ago and have worn them every fall/winter until last year I ripped the zipper. I haven't had much luck finding a local cobbler so have been on the search for the same exact boots. I lucked out and found the exact pair on Ebay!

4. Beeswax candle

Lots of candles are made of chemical filled toxins and personally, I don't want any of that in my home. I bought some beeswax candles at a local market and love the smell of them, plus they are toxin free.

5. Chai Tea

I have mastered making my own chai concentrate at home and it is so much better than the store bought crap. Seriously, make you own and you will never go back.

6. DoTerra OnGuard

I love essential oils and On Guard is one of my favorites to diffuse in the fall. I just got some Young Living Thieves and am excited to use that this fall too.

A few of my favorite things~ Candy in Germany

The other day I blogged about my favorite foods you can buy in German grocery stores. I am sure you have been waiting for my post about all the delicious candies and sweets I constantly buy and send family and friends back in the States. 

Here is a list of my top favorites (in no particular order):

Böhme Fruchtkaramellen
I have always enjoyed getting these little treats at restaurants after a meal but FINALLY learned they sell them at the grocery store down the street. These are very similar to Starbursts but are WAY better!

Happy Hippos
These are everyones go to item when I take the to a grocery store in Germany during a visit. I admit, I do not blame them for bringing an extra suitcase just for Happy Hippos. They are made of a wafer biscuit, shaped like a hippopotamus and the inside is filled with chocolate and vanilla icing.

Ritter Sport 
My all time favorite chocolates! Ritter Sport is family business that started when Alfred and Clara (over 100 years ago) decided to dedicate their lives to make chocolate and this today means a square chocolate bar that comes in many flavours/mixes.  
My top favorites are: Honig-Salz-Mandel, Alpenmilch, Erdbeer yohgurt, Espresso and Nugat

Milka
Another tasty chocolate bar that has numerous flavors from Oreo to hazelnut. They are all delicious.

Haribo
All German supermarkets sell the HARIBO and it is almost overwhelming to pick one when you see all the different kinds they have. Also, the Haribo gummy bears here in Germany taste so much better here. Don't quote me on this but I think that they use different better ingredients on their Germany candies. 
My top favorites: Goldbären, Happy Cherries, Happy Cola, Balla Stixx, Lasso (I usually can only find these ones at Globus or at festivals) 

Kinder Surpise
These funny chocolate eggs are illegal in America because of the bite sized toy that comes in every Kinder egg. My husband is usually not a fan of candy but enjoys these layered chocolate and vanilla flavored eggs.

Kinder Bueno
These little chocolate bars are hazelnut cream filled wafers with a chocolate covering. 

Tofifee
These bite-sized treats are a carmel cup filled with chocolate with a surprise hazelnut in the middle. 

Nutella
Oh Nutella... I had to post this one because this is the stuff everyone asks for. Yes, you can buy it in the States BUT it is definitely different ingredients. The stuff here in Germany tastes WAY better and is WAY cheaper. I can buy a huge jar of this stuff for 3euro while a smaller sized jar is $8+ in the US.

*I just want to say that while I wrote this I ate a whole bar of Ritter Sport Honig-Salz-Mandel, lol 

A few of my favorite things~ German style

As we are starting to get ready for our big move back to the States, I have been coming up with lists of what I will miss most in Germany. One of the things I love most about Germany is the food! 
I have been avoiding the commissary on base and shopping exclusively on the economy the past couple years. I will have to make a separate post about candy in Europe.  

Here is a list of my top favorites:

Thomy Scharfer Senf
LOVE this stuff! It is a little spicy so you can get the other one (with a blue top) and it is not as spicy.

Kräuter butter
You can make your own but I just buy it at the local store for cheap. I will have to learn to make it when we move back to the States. This surf is amazing with pretzels or other bread and vegetables! 

Müller milch, reis, johgurt, desserts EVERYTHING!!!
Seriously, everything I buy from Müller is amazing! I love it all! I even bought some crazy looking flavor mike and yogurts and they were the best tasting thing I have ever tasted!

ButterKäse
I love cheese and this one has quickly become one of my favorites. It is smooth and creamy and is a semi-soft, cow's milk cheese. This has also become one of Rand's favorites. I buy it in slices for sandwiches and get it cubed for snacks. 

Knorr Karibik sauce
I enjoy lots of Knorr products but this one if one of my favorites. It is great for fish but I love it with grilled pineapple. YUM!

Joghurt kräuter

Germans definitely know how to make a spectacular salad and it is only right that the dressings are just as amazing! Joghurt Kräuter is my all time favorite dressing and I think half of my household goods will be jars of this stuff ;)

Pesto Calabrese

I have been obsessed with gnocchi lately and this stuff is fabulous with it. I usually just boil the gnocchi and after draining, mix this stuff with it and bake it with more cheese for a few minutes. It is seriously the most amazing sauce you will ever buy at a grocery store.

Lotus Speculoos Cookiebutter and Biscuits

Cookiebutter?! Yes, you heard that right! This stuff is like crack. Just slab some on a cookie or mix it in to make a cake or other dessert and your taste buds will be dancing all night. You will find tons of recipes online on how this little jar of heaven can upgrade any recipe instantly. 

Schweppes Bitter Lemon
Nothing tops an iced cold glass of this carbonated soft drink flavoured with quinine and lemon. This has quickly become my go-to beverage while in Germany. My Dad is also a big fan of this drink.

I could honestly go on for days abut my favorite things to buy at the grocery store... the bio fresh produce, the cheeses you can sample, the jams and the bakery aisle, all the yogurts ... it is all amazing. You will probably need to swing by a few grocery stores to find the products you want. For example, I love grocery shopping at Lidl but I know I need to go to Kauflands or Edeka for other specialty items.

One of the first things I noticed while shopping in Europe is that plastic or paper shopping bags cost money. Usually anywhere from ,50 euro cent to 1 euro. I quickly bought a few canvas bags but my favorite shopping bags are actually a Reisenthel carrybag and easyshoppingbag.

I highly encourage you to go out and grocery shop on the economy. I know it is overwhelming the first few times but it is worth it. You will be pleasantly surprised by the quality of the products and food along with the low prices. I honestly think that shopping off base for food is much cheaper.

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Packing for our cruise

Packing for a trip is always stressful but packing for a flight with Ryanair (where you are restricted on luggage size and weight) and a cruise with a 18 month old in tow is really hard. Luckily, I have a bit of packing experience under my belt and have come up with a list of my favorite things for packing for a cruise.

1. Hand sanitizer
I am not a germaphobe but being surrounded by strangers in tight quarters makes me a little nervous for Rand. I found an amazing DIY hand sanitizing  recipe on pinterest. It not only does the job, but smells wonderful and leaves your hands nice and soft. If you do not want to make your own, here is a great alternative.

2. Toys
Rand is in love with these VTech Go Go Go Smart Wheels toys. They have tons of different ones that all make different noises and plays music. They are small enough to throw in your bag but provide lots of entertainment for your little one.

3. YumEarth Organic Lollipops
When my sister came to visit she gave Rand his first lollipop and it was this brand. He loved it and stayed quiet the rest of the tour we were on that day. These lollipops are yummy, organic and full of Vitamin C.

4. Deuter Kid Comfort III
Carrying Rand in the Ergo has started to be too much for me so we invested in the Deuter and have been so happy with our purchase. Rand is very comfortable in it and it has tons of storage. We specifically love this one because it has a canopy option that we can keep open to block out the sun or rain or zip it closed.

5. Longchamp bag
I am completely obsessed with my Longchamp bag. When we first moved to Europe I noticed lots of locals using this bag and just loved how simple it was. I finally got one and LOVE it! It has tons of room for diapers, snacks and other baby items and it very well made. I also love the zipper on top to help keep wandering fingers out.

6. Books
Rand loves books, specifically the Little Suzy's Zoo books. They were perfect to take with because they are durable, thin and light weight.

7. Rollers of EO
I am loving on essential oils and made a few for our trip, like Lavender to help us sleep and Rand Guard which is an amazing blend I found online through an EO forum I follow. Rand Guard is a great little blend to help boost the immune system. *I am not a doctor. Please consult a trained aromatherapist or your doctor before using any of the suggestions on this website, as the user's age and health conditions must be taken into account before using. The information contained in this website is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.

8. Maclaren Volo
a Light weight stroller (like my Maclaren Volo) is great for traveling. It is lightweight but well made and has a nifty carrying strap for when you collapse it. This little stroller can take on a lot of weight. At one point of our trip when we were walking to the port with our luggage, we threw on all our bags and it did great!

9. iPad with Otterbox case
Rand only gets iPad time when we are on trips and we can no longer get him to sit still for meals or on long car rides. We have a few fun games and movies to help keep him entertained and we love the Otterbox case to help keep the iPad safe from breaking. We also downloaded a sound soother app to play at night to block out any noise from our neighbors.

*Another great item to bring is a small bottle of Dawn and laundry detergent to wash items in the sink in your room.

Packing for a 1 year old

Traveling with a youngster is not for the faint of heart. It takes lots of planning and preparation but is definitely worth all the headache. We are stationed in Germany for only a few years and when we had Rand, there was no question about it... we needed to keep traveling, even with a baby. I have to admit this first year was super easy. Rand was breastfed and it was nice not having to worry about bottles or formula. We do cloth diaper but not on the road... I gave in and use sposies but I do use CD shells to prevent blowouts and leaks. We get looks and comments ALL the time on vacation but I don't mind. There are some places I don't feel comfortable bringing my baby and I do think of others and won't take my child on certain excursions because who wants to hear a baby crying when you paid a ton of money for a show or dinner?

The London/ Dublin trip is just around the corner and I am a bit nervous about packing for Rand. I have a good idea of what to pack and bring with us but we are flying Ryanair and then taking a train and boat ride so we are limited on our luggage space and weight.

Here are my favorite items for my 1 year old world traveler:

1. Baby food pouches (Hipp)- At home, I make Rand's food but that is not an option when we are traveling so I get a ton of these food pouches and they are a hit with Rand! He loves these things!

2. a Light weight stroller (Maclaren Volo)- I bought an old Maclaren Volo on bookoo for only $15 and it is great for traveling. It is lightweight but well made and has a nifty carrying strap for when you collapse it. I know my husband missed his cup holder and storage space from out other stroller but this one will do great for our next trip. 

3. Ergo- I can not say enough amazing things about this awesome carrier! I love this thing!

4. a Scarf- I know this sounds like a weird essential for traveling with a 1 year old but trust me, its great! I not only use this for a cover for when I nurse Rand in public but I also use it as a strap to tie Rand into a highchair at restuarants. It is also a great sun shield for the stroller, a light weight blanket and looks great around Momma's neck :)

5. Peekaru Original Fleece Baby Carrier Cover- Like I said before, I love my Ergo and this cover is perfect for covering up baby (and Mommy) when it is cold out. I bought this one on Amazon. On the road, I also use this as a footmuff for Rand in his stroller.

6. a toy/ sippy cup strap- I actually made mine but you can find them on Amazon or Etsy. These are great for on the road and at home. No more bending over and picking up you lo's toys and cups while they are in a highchair or stroller. I made mine with an elastic loop and also a velcro strap so it can connect to different objects in different ways.

traveling with a baby

Since we are only here in Germany for a couple years, Rob and I have been trying to travel as much as we can. Our family and friends think we are nuts and sometimes, we think we are too but sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do! During our travels,  we get lots of funny look and get asked numerous times" how do you travel with a baby?" 

I have to say at first, it wasn't easy and it takes lots of practice but it is worth it. I don't know if we just lucked out or if it is because we started traveling with Rand from the get go, but he is a perfect little traveler. 

Our first trip was a day trip to some castle ruins a few hours away. I think Rand was only a few weeks old at that point. I wore Rand in the Ergo and walked all around. He slept a good part of the day, except during the drive. I always nurse Rand whenever we first arrived somewhere along with changing his diaper. 

Our second trip was to Austria with my parents. I knew we would have to stop every couple hours to nurse Rand so I made sure I pumped a bottle so we didm t have to stop for the first feeding. I also brought my pump so I could make a new bottle while on the road. We still stopped every couple hours so I could change a diaper.

Minus the common sense stuff like diapers & wipes, toys, clothes and stuff like that; 

here is a little list of my favorite travel essentials to make life on the road a 

little easier for you and baby.

1. Ergo (with infant insert)

I LOVE my Ergo! I use this thing for everything, from grocery shopping, to traveling, also to help get my baby to sleep at night! Seriously, the best thing I got for a baby gift!

2. Jeep Liberty Limited Urban Terrain Stroller

Even though this thing is a bit on the bulky side and heavy, it is awesome!!!! I don't care about the iPod hook up and speaker but the tires on this thing are amazing! We get comments all the time on this stroller bc it is a breeze on these old cobblestone streets and stairs. 

3.BRICA Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet

I would say about half the hotels we stay in do not have cribs so this is where this thing comes in handy. It is very small and compact and takes up little to no room in your trunk. 

4. L'ovedbaby Nursing Shawl

Another great baby shower gift! I love this lightweight nursing cover! It is like a poncho so no one can sneak a peak from around the corner. It can also be used for a canopy for stroller/car seat and a lightweight blanket.

5. Bum Genius 4.0

I have cloth diapered Rand since we got home from the hospital but I do not cd when we travel for more than 2 nights. BUT I do use them as covers over my disposals. I hate disposals because they leak all the time, hence why I use a BG cover! I love it, especially when we are in the car and I can't change a poopy diaper right away.

6. Coach diaper bag

It is spacious, has tons of pockets, well made, comes with a changing pad and just looks good.

7. Dream Baby Stroller Fan

This is a great little fan! The blades are foam but the fan produces a pretty good breeze. It is very easy to position the fan to any angle you need. 

8. Boppy Noggin Nest Head Support

This is a great head pillow for long car car rides. Rand was starting to get a flat spot and this really helped round his head out.

9. a hat

My favorite for Rand is this straw fedora I bought at H&M but any hat with a brim will do. I believe no matter what the weather is, all babies should have something on their little heads. 

10. Peekaru Original Fleece Baby Carrier Cover

Like I said before, I use my Ergo for everything but it does get pretty chilly in the evenings so I bought this one on Amazon. My only regret was not buying it sooner. It keeps Rand so warm and snuggly. It can also be worn backwards when you wear the Ergo on your back.