My encouragement, my fuel, my therapy.

RETIRED US ARMY VETERAN

A permanently disabled female veteran living in Germany, traveling, and writing about my experiences.

“we often take for granted the things that most deserve our gratitude.” – cYNTHIA OZICK

I grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana but decided to live in Germany after retiring from the United States Army. Although I have lived in Germany for several years, I have not lost touch with my unique, colorful Creole roots.

Living in Germany has made me appreciate European culture in many ways. I have learned more than I expected and have discovered many similarities between my culture and some European cultures. For example, Fasching is known as Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Both are celebrated during the same time of the year. Mardi Gras, or Fasching, is the period of wild celebration and debauchery before the holy season of Lent. Fasching holds the same meaning and endearment to me as it does to the Germans.

I am the only Black American in my beautiful neighborhood. This distinction has never materialized into any problems for me. One thing that I continue to experience and enjoy over here in Germany is acceptance, something that seems to be in short supply in the United States. Germans always treat me with respect and they honor the fact that I am a retired US Veteran and a senior citizen.

Germans are known for being friendly and welcoming, even if everyone thinks they do not have a sense of humor. As I try to improve my German speaking ability, I find that most Germans I meet speak some degree of English, so this aspect does not help me. But the Germans are happy to speak English with me no matter how limited their knowledge might be. So I appreciate their respect and courtesy towards me. If I need help with anything, I get it. Sometimes I don’t even have to ask.

I spend most of my time writing about my travels and experiences that take me through the beautiful, picturesque towns, villages, castles, and nearby European countries. So far, I have met some amazing people on my journeys. I enjoy documenting my travel experiences.

I am grateful to God for giving me the gift of writing. I have experienced Him sending me help when I need it. Also, He has put me in situations where I could help others.

I know that God has a great sense of humor. Sometimes He puts me in the middle of situations where I have no clue if I will ever see the light of day again or make it out alive! But I am a survivor. He knows that, and I am still here.

My determination and willpower keep me going, even on my worst days. I am very observant and pay attention to details others might miss. Creating my stories from situations that others might overlook has given me more wisdom, compassion, and a wealth of knowledge I could never get from any book.

There are many adventures and stories waiting to be told. As I travel, I take the opportunity to capture as much information as possible and turn my notes into articles that I hope people will enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing them.

Thanks for stopping by. I invite you to visit as often as you can to see what I have been up to.