Tag Archives: traditions

An Invigorating Walk!

Posted on February 11, 2022 by maryannniemczura

During our recent heat wave of 6°C/44°F, a walk down by the lake beckoned. Sun was shining. I was not alone with this idea.  Parts of the road had been plowed.  Parking lot full of cars. Walkers were out and … Continue reading →

Posted in a walk at the lake, perfect walking weather, snow in Upstate New York, snow-covered lake | Tagged , , , , , | 26 Comments

Erntedankfest in a German Village

Posted on October 13, 2017 by maryannniemczura

The Fulbright program does an incredible job connecting peoples around the world. We had learned that I was to teach English to German pupils from grades 6-10 in a Comprehensive School in Neresheim, Germany.  The school served 30 surrounding towns … Continue reading →

Posted in Erntedankfest, Fulbright Exchange, Fulbright to Germany, German village life, harvest festival, Schweindorf, Spielberger family | Tagged , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

Advent in a German Village

Posted on December 2, 2016 by maryannniemczura

  Advent in Germany A time of hope, anticipation. Crisp air outdoors. Candles, lights, wreaths abound. Advent calendars to count down. Small surprises, sweets behind the tiny doors. Shouts of glee at the prizes in little hands. Smells of fir … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent Wreath, Advent, Nikolaus, customs, Germany, traditions, cultures, Fulbright to Germany | Tagged , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

My Legacy

Posted on October 24, 2015 by maryannniemczura

Our legacies are passed down from one generation to another. The world is connected by stories, memories, traditions, dreams and hopes. Waxing philosophical I reflect on the legacies of my parents, grandparents, and other family members. What have I learned … Continue reading →

Posted in family, Goethe, languages, legacy, letters, memoir: A Past Worth Telling, music, teaching German | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 16 Comments

July 4th Traditions

Posted on July 4, 2015 by maryannniemczura

Family, friends, faith, food, flying the flag and fireworks create memorable traditions this July 4th. Neighbors are out relaxing, playing, taking walks and cooking outdoors. Everyone stops to reflect on this country and on those who went before us and … Continue reading →

Posted in celebrations, Colorado, faith, family, fireworks, food, friends, July 4th, prayer before meals, Pueblo, traditions, Upstate New York, vegetable gardens | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Celebrations and World Languages

Posted on February 28, 2015 by maryannniemczura

Except for our July baby, most of our family celebrations fall during January and February. We take time to honor one another and express our love with gestures such as cards, flowers, a cake or pie and dinner with family … Continue reading →

Posted in 6th grade registration for world languages, birthday celebration, birthday celebrations at school, customs in Germany, education, family, family tradition, friends, German culture, German customs, German language, global citizens, interdisciplinary projects, languages, love, pen pal letter exchanges, preparing world leaders, Teacher, Teaching, video conferences, video conferences between US & German schools | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Family Traditions

Posted on December 7, 2014 by maryannniemczura

December 6 is St. Nikolaus Day in Germany. Last night children put the biggest boot they could find outside their door. If they had been good during the year, Nikolaus brought them chocolate, fruit and small gifts. Those who had … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent Wreath, Christmas Traditions, education, family, Fulbright Teacher Exchange, Teaching in Germany | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments