Happy Birthday Jesus!

Merry Christmas (if you celebrate) and if not happy holiday to whichever you do observe (and if you don't observe any Happy Hump Day!).

We are in the midst of a heat wave here in Eastern Iowa, 22 steamy degrees in the Clinton metro-area.  Hopefully the temperature is friendly where you are and you are surrounded by family and friends.

I know you're busy, full, or sleepy today so I'll keep this post very approachable and brief.  This is my first annual 1800MPG Christmas Top Five Countdown.

Without further ado...

Best Christmas-y Movie Film 

5.  Home Alone
Never mind the multiple times Kevin could have escaped or called the police.  This movie made every little kid set up booby traps and think of ways to act if the situation depicted ever came about.  Another movie with a great lesson, however this lesson is camouflaged in sadistic self-defense.

4.  Elf 
Will Ferrell in elf gear prancing through Manhattan looking for his father.  You can't draw it up any better.  SANTTAAAA!

3.  It's a Wonderful Life
A story of redemption and thoughtfulness.  I remember being in high school and watching it closely for the first time (I usually scoffed at it due to the black and white color and it was old) and got teared up (shhh).  What a cool story, great acting, with an amazing message.

2. A Christmas Story 
The hilariously narrated story of a kid in pursuit of his Red Rider BB gun.  Bullies, getting a tongue stuck to a light pole, the famous lamp, and the cover up.  It's on repeat for a reason.

1. National Lampoons Christmas Vacation
The pinnacle of the Christmas big screen experience.  It's beloved by the Schneeberger side (as we emulate many of the traits) and it's Chicago/Midwest influence.  If you don't quote this movie during the season you suck (kidding, you just don't know any better because you've lived in a cave and never have seen the movie).

Best Christmas Song (Original composition or cover)

I love Christmas music, but some songs (many originals) are worse than hearing someone throw up, a dog whining, someone is scratching a chalkboard, and a baby whaling in the background. These songs have been screened by our panel and analyzed regarding their contribution to the Christmas holiday.

5. Santa Claus is Coming to Town - Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band
Does anyone have more fun playing this song the Bruce?  He's talking with the crowd, joking with "Big Man" and the band all while nailing the song.  Listen close and you can even here him laughing.  Bruce, man of the people, playing for the people's Christmas.

4.  Run Run Rudolf - Chuck Berry
He wrote Johnny B. Goode and he is the man.  This song is a little Christmas shuffle with Chuck's great slant rhyme.  Play this in the car and crank it up (helps drown out unwanted talk and lowers Christmas frustration).  You're welcome.

3.  Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree - Brenda Lee
Ms. Lee has a classic voice and the tune has been used in countless Christmas movies and shows.  A timeless tune that never seems to get old.

2.  Santa Clause is Back in Town - Elvis Presley
The King doing Christmas.  My all-time favorite Christmas song, but due to nostalgic reasons I can't put it as number one.  But really how many people can talk about a big black Caddy in a Christmas song and still sound be in the spirit of the season.  The drums are awesome (feel free to air drum or play on the steering wheel!).  Biggest regret is my band didn't play this at our only Christmas gig (we went with a Petty song instead), oh well enjoy!

1.  The Christmas Song 
This song is on repeat during the Lueders' family Christmas and immediately takes me back to my childhood.  Nat King Cole is the man and he hits a walk off with this rendition.  No one should try to cover this song again...ever.  His voice is a cross between Fergie and Jesus, but less commercial and biblical.  I bet after laying dow this track Nat lit a smoke, had some scotch, and drifted off into the snowy night with a  grin.

There you go my top ten favorite Christmas movies and songs.  I'd extend the awards some more, but I've got getting moving and help out around here.  You know the saying happy Mom, things stay calm (that's not real, I just made that up).

Best wishes to you and yours this holiday season!  Hope Santa brought you some fun stuff.  Keep spreading the Christmas spirit of giving.

Here is a little parting gift for you.  This is one of my favorite bands and I love this song:

Until next time,

KRS

Bonus links: http://deadspin.com/the-best-version-of-every-important-christmas-song-1476324669
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/12/23/christmas-songs_n_4490707.html

A Week of... Not Much (And That Ain't Bad)

It's almost Christmas!  A week from today many of you will have the post-Christmas hangover and not from booze (well maybe a few of you), but for many it's the climax of a pretty stressful/busy time.

Take a few minutes to yourself prior the the final push next week and really take a look at what is important and really is "stressful".  I'm sure the lines won't seem as long, the significant others/kids/relatives won't be so testy, and you'll be able to understand what it's all about.  Giving, breaking bread with those we care about, and reflecting on how well we have it.

Trust me, I had to take a big, heaping scoop of this advice this past week.  But I think mentally I'm ready for the push.

A Vacation Bum Stirs 

After the first two weeks (sorry, I can't help it's a long break) of literally being a bum (reading, writing, lifting, hoops, some TV, and other mindless activities) and only going into public to see old friends and colleagues, I actually did some things.

This past week I cooked dinner, donated some money/gifts, announced two swim meets, did some Christmas shopping, went to the library (the have paper books there still!), and worked on my bike.  I also went and watched CHS wrestle Assumption and Bettendorf (both teams are ranked 1) and the Kings did a nice job of competing.  This is the first meet I haven't had to coach or work, so it was interesting to see how people in the crowd act.  Perspective, perspective.

I'm pretty thankful for having the time off to see friends, hang with family, and do the little things that you cannot do in VZ.  I honestly have started feeling guilty about not having much to do.

The Schneeberger Compound is looking like the it'll be busy this upcoming week with a few Christmas events and whatever else seems to pop up.  No rest for the weary on the frontside of the holiday season, but after the big day it seems to slow down.

My house + snow and dramatic lighting.

Pabellon criollo made by yours truly. 

Our paper carrier leaves a treat everyday.  She doesn't have much but gives anyway.  Lesson learned.

I'll Speak But Not Preach

This past weekend I was asked to speak for a few minutes at church and provide insight on giving.  Now being raised in an environment that has never put much emphasis on money, yet knowing the work it took/takes to provide I wanted to be sure to not direct my talk about giving financially (I know churches all need money, but I felt it wasn't my place.  Plus this time of year that's the last thing people want to hear).  I instead gave insight on the conditions of VZ, the income, and the unconditional giving that their culture has and that I have received.  I tried to not be holier than thou but rather to outline many ways that people can give that can make not only the congregation, community, and beyond, better, but to remind people that it can be simple and cost free.  I know in 2013 we have no "time" (I'm guilty of the I'm too busy feeling as much as anyone), but if you look at how you are spending your non-work time, I'm sure you (and your family) can give in some way.  I thought I did a fair job, but I left out one bullet point I wanted to touch on.  I'm much more calm and collected in a classroom or in front of teachers not the podium.

Calm 

The days have been rather calm and uneventful, which has been actually pretty cool.  I've been doing some research on Hemingway and his Cuban exploits.  Looking to follow the crumbs he left behind when I get there.  

The weather here has been pretty wild.  Last week bitter cold, one day of sunlight, and then yesterday some freezing rain.  No big deal, just an observation.  I mean how long are most of us outside? 10 minutes a day to walk to and from one's car?  I can suck it up and make the walk.  The problem is now my body is getting used to it, so I'll be sweating like a fool upon my return.  So it goes. 

Dad (L); Me (R)

Elbows out thumbs up.  

Don't be seduced by the awesome sweaters.

Really?  "Suitable" come on Hallmark, you're better than that. 

Observations

1.  I know check my email approximately five times a day hoping to see something from one of the universities I applied at.  If checking more frequently added to my chance of getting a response, I'd be sitting good.

2.  My surgically repaired nose is sound.  I got rocked twice in the beak playing hoops this week and no issues (thank God, I thought I broke it.  I had the sick feeling, eyes water, pain of a break.  I must be getting soft).

ICE CITY!

3.  People driving in snow and/or ice texting/snapchatting/tweeting/insertstupidthing are still abound. If you are doing these things you should not drive in poor conditions.  If you don't care about your life when you are riding down the highway at 65+ think about your kid.  The football field you drove while you were looking at your screen should be seen by your eyes not just your kids.  

4.  I have wasted too much time watching meaningless TV.  I went from no TV to a TV on a lot, man it is easy to get distracted.

5.  Tights.  When a girl wears them in the winter and then complains about cold I can't help but wonder what they thought it was like outside.  Over heard a conversation at Target between a mom and daughter both in tights about how it is so cold out and that they can't wait for summer.  I thought we all can't wait for summer, but there are like three wardrobe steps you could make to be much warmer.  

6.  Speaking of Target, they  had summer swimsuits and apparel out.  The corporate machine never flinches. 

7.  I feel guilty when I walk past a bell ringer when I have no money.  I feel they are judging me.  I look them in the eye and tell them that I only have a debit or that I'll get them on the way back.  Ah, guilt.

8.  I think I have a super power.  I can put off Christmas shopping until the very last minute and the perfect gift just seems to draw me in.  One day, 1.5 hours (including drive time) and done.  Kaboom.

9.  Speaking of Kaboom, some clown Assumption fan in front of me would say "BOOM" when a kid was about to get pinned.  My brother Marcus was getting pissed, but I just wanted to know, why boom?  I mean that's the best you got?  I know many calls have been done, but boom?  Raise your game. 

10.  I know this is three days past my usual, but I just had no material.  Nothing funny happened and I had explored some of the bigger topics in previous posts.  The holiday's will be sure to generate some 

That's it for this week.  Tune back in for next week's holiday addition.  I'll give you a little insight to the Schneeberger Family Christmas (always an adventure) and some analysis of holiday media.

Have a great weekend.  Safe travels!

Until next time,

KRS

The Big Come Down

“The heart’s memory eliminates the bad and magnifies the good; and thanks to this artifice we manage to endure the burdens of the past. ”—    Gabriel García Marquez

Everyone is fighting a battle of their own, but I think this quote helps remind people to draw on those good and positive experiences when you’re navigating a dark or challenging time. 

That being said:

“The night is darkest just before the dawn” - Harvey Dent (pre-Two Face)

If you are out there going through that type of challenging time as the holiday looms, rally your memories, gather your friends, celebrate your being and keep the technology away.  Engage in real conversation and be there.  You’ll feel better and those around you will too.  I say this because I am doing this.  (I'm not only an endorser, but I'm a client!)  Time is our most precious gift; give yours accordingly. (That was the first time I’ve used a semicolon in a sentence.  English friends did I use it right, I can never correct my own writing.) 

I have now been back for thirteen days and it is getting weird.  I am experiencing a lot of the feelings I had when I first got down there.  For example, I cried a few times today.  What, me? I know I can’t believe it either, but that happened Jack and I was not a fan.  I would have never thought that the things that were so common and normal here could feel so distant and weird.  It’s hard to explain so I’m going to take a bit from Marquette University’s web page on re-entry (that sounds cool, like an astronaut).  

1. BOREDOM

I have just lately started to experience this one. “But of course Kellen, you live in Clinton.” Well my life in Valencia wasn’t exactly a burn the candle at both ends experience. They are actually comparable in terms of day–to-day living. It sucks that most of my friends are still working or in other cities. I don’t think boredom will be an issue, but it sometimes can creep around.


2. NO ONE WANTS TO HEAR

I feel this one a lot. Many people ask about VZ and my experiences. I’m getting good at explaining the jest of it in a short conversation, but I don’t feel it gives the experience and the people full credit. Also, I feel bad when I say something like, “In Venezuela, blah blah. It’s a hard line to understand. In Venezuela (see there I go) when people ask you, “How are you?” they truly mean it. It was a cultural difference that I struggle(d) with. My friends would say that and I would reply “ok or not bad” and they would immediately wonder what was wrong.


3. YOU CAN’T EXPLAIN

I often times provide a short verbal Polaroid of the experience in conversation and then think of how much of a disservice I am causing. I don’t want people to think VZ is a scary, unsafe place or shortchange the culture, but it’s really hard to paint a clear picture. I’m using crayons to replicate a Dali. I don’t think I do a good job and it’s tough sledding.


4. “REVERSE HOMESICKNESS”

I wouldn’t say I’m homesick for VZ, but I do notice sometimes I anticipate a challenge or complication with a task that doesn’t occur. I don’t miss those things, but when you spend the majority of your day navigating them and all of the sudden they are cured, it is weird. I imagine it would be like when a whale loses a remora (the fish attached to them). At first they are like “YEAH, HE GONE!” and then it’s like where did it go? It’s weird to not have it, better this way, but feeling something missing.

5. RELATIONSHIPS HAVE CHANGED

I’ve noticed that I’ve lost my spot or have seen alterations in a variety of social circles, close friendships/relationship, missed the growth of younger pups, and even missed some major life events. It’s been weird to see how people address me and talk to me now. I wouldn’t use the word negative to describe how people have treated me as a result of this experience, though I probably have been negative/difficult/challenging/coarse to people while I was going through things down there. I think some people give me credit or speak to me in disbelief. I feel like an ambassador/politician at times.


6. PEOPLE SEE THE “WRONG” CHANGES

I haven’t seen this in any exchanges yet, but sometimes I feel like I am more eager to have conversations with people then they are to me. Maybe this was from living for half the year where I could only speak to like 10 people outside of my school and am excited to actually talk to others. Oh and people say I’m so skinny now. I’m 165 and what I would consider kind of fit. Apparently, I was a tank before I left. I’ve been slowly taking the knife out of my back in regards to my weight I carried before leaving. Man, tell a brother next time if I’m husky.


7. PEOPLE MISUNDERSTAND

I feel this a lot. Sarcasm is not very common in many cultures in South America and Venezuela is included. The cultures are so different that I feel I have to really switch gears here. I know some of the changes in dress, banter, and interactions that have occurred with me are a challenge to some here. I’ve had several students tell me I’m much different. I dress different, more laid back, speak a little differently, skinny, etc. It’s nothing I do on person to stand out. I guess it’s just the influence of cultural submersion.


8. FEELINGS OF ALIENATION/CRITICAL EYES

I feel this a fair amount. Not the critical eyes section, but rather the alienation. I really don’t feel as home as I thought I would or that I did before I left. Like I alluded to in my last post, I feel like there are a lot of ghosts and memories here that were quick to reappear. My mom and grandma both echoed this to me. “Even when you leave those thoughts and feelings they will still be here as you left them. You think they are going to dissipate or be answered, but they aren’t.” Hemmingway was right. [Shakes fist at Hemmingway]


9. INABILITY TO APPLY NEW KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

I wouldn’t say I’m a trove of new knowledge and skills, but I’m also not the unwilling (or able to) old dog to learn new tricks. I think Venezuela has a way of providing problem solving skills, patience, and insight on how to interact with a very different culture. I wouldn’t say I have become a better cook during my time there, but check this out. Assimilation, Jerry!


10. LOSS/COMPARTMENTALIZATION OF EXPERIENCE

While I haven’t been home long enough to experience this I probably would give myself an F grade in maintaining communication with my friends in VZ. I probably would grade myself close to that when I am down there and maintaining with people here. I’m not the greatest communicator, couple that with my nature ability to wall up and isolate myself when I am stressed or depressed and you have a perfect anti-communicator.

Ten Things I think:

1) I am frequently cold, but try to not complain too much. It’s just cold for a few minutes going to and from the car and I think it could be much worse. Knowing it’s cold means that you have the ability to get warm. I think we should think of those that don’t complain about the cold, but live it because they have nowhere else to go.

2) I think parents, teachers, and workers that rally the Christmas spirit deserve a medal. I remember being a little guy counting down the holiday with rings, getting excited for the Christmas Concert, and break. Even though it’s now “Holiday Break” keep getting kids excited. Even if those kids don’t’ have much, the spirit of giving, thankfulness, and good will can’t be highlighted enough.

3) I think helping people gets more fun as you get older. This week I helped a worker at Goodwill put some items that had either been knocked off or not put back accordingly. We had a funny conversation and he was a good dude. Tonight a HS kid was struggling lugging charts into Hy-Vee (and it was -1231 degrees) I hustled up behind him to help. I also did some cart surfing on the way in. It was the cart that the little kids like (looks like a car or truck), so double style points.

4) I think community members, students, faculty, and families forget how awesome it is that we have high school varsity sports. I announced a wrestling meet and went to a boy’s hoops game with an old teammate this past week. He and I had this conversation, “Weren’t there more people at games and meets when we were in school?” We both agreed yes, but also realize times are different. Social media, easier access to movies, websites, video games, and phones may have caused some people to not attend, but what about the rest? For five dollars you can see true passion, competitiveness, and for a short time, embrace the nostalgia of your childhood lost. It’s a shame. Games and meets used to be a point of emphasis with dinner or gatherings before or afterwards. I can’t help but think people are losing our since of community.

5) I think Christmas music is awesome, but everything awesome has already been written. No more new stuff. I would say lets set up a block of any Christmas music after the ‘80s and call it good.

6) I think daytime TV is loaded with terrible commercials. It’s completely geared to women and has to make them feel bad. If the dude didn’t go to Jared or get the latest washer/vacuum the Mrs. is bound to be wound up before he gets off work.

7) I think I’m kind of nervous about speaking at church on Sunday. The topic is giving, but I’m staying away from money. Many people don’t have much or feel pressured. There is so much more to give in a variety of areas. I don’t have many credentials in the manner so I plan on speaking from the heart. I hope I don’t appear as a holy roller or condescending.

8) I think people need to make cookies with their mom (or family member). I did this week (call me Kellen Crocker) and it has a way of not only making you feel good, but calming. Too much information and expectation for people out there. I prescribe chilling out, making some cookies, eating them, and talking about fun stuff.

9) I think the huge reading list I had set up for myself needs to be amended. I just haven’t been as focused on knocking those books off as I had hoped. I blame it on TV.

10) I think I should do some Christmas shopping. I need an ugly sweater, two gifts to pass, and family gifts heading into Christmas. Number I have: ZERO. Well done sir, well done.

If you’re curious to what culture shock is with a little more depth check these two sites out. 

Culture shock links:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/dailymuse/2012/09/06/home-sweet-home-dealing-with-reverse-culture-shock/

http://www.marquette.edu/abroad/resources-reverse-culture-shock.shtml

Sorry about the day delay.  I went to the hoops game last night with Jones and was too tired to write when I got home.

Sorry for the lack of pictures as well.  This is my old computer and there is hardly any space on it so I cannot upload the new iOS or iTunes thus my picture uploading is nil.  Next week when my computer is back, it will be picture city!

I hope everyone is staying warm…or cool depending on what part of the globe you’re in.

Good luck shopping if you’re not done!

Until next time,

KRS

The Long Road Home

"Finally the Rock has come back to..."
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson

My entrance wasn't nearly that "entertaining" or theatrical, but it was definitely a unique one.

Being back in the States for almost a week has posed its challenges.

Being gone for five months doesn't seem like a long time, but things can really change.

The Surprise

As some of you may have found out from my mother or sister's social media, I came back on Thanksgiving to surprise my family and be home for Christmas Break. The trip back wasn't all puppies and rainbows though.

In order to get to Caracas to make my flight, we had to leave Valencia at about 2:30 am. Yep, that sucked. What was worse was the fact that I had to get up at 1:45am, shower, double check stuff, and head down to get picked up. 

I got to bed kind of later than I had hoped due to my complete lack of packing until Wednesday night.  If you know me you're not surprised. Plus, I wanted to have a few beers with my friends that were traveling or going home and I thought after a few beers I'd be a better packer.  Or that maybe the task of packing wouldn't be that bad if I had spent time having some beers with all my buddies that were taking off in the coming days. 

Earlier in the day we had our Thanksgiving lunch at school.  It was a pretty cool deal.  All the parents cook (or their maids), serve, and share in the holiday spirit with the school staff.  Every grade goes and eats.  I'm an 11th grade adviser (as I've bitched about several times) so we were in the early afternoon.  The food was traditional Venezuela stuff and it tasted great.  Earlier in the day Ryan had warned me about how it causes some teachers to get sick, but since I had not gotten sick at the Director's Holiday Party, I figured I was good. But I popped a Pepto to be sure. I thought I was golden now.

Not so fast my friend.

As soon as I had gotten down to the gate to be ready to be picked up to go, there was a rumbling in my belly.  I mentally had written it off as something that happens when you get up earlier than when you went to bed in college. After texting a few people who were also getting picked up and being informed that the driver and security (Yeah, security.  Caracas don't play.) were running late, I sprinted up to my room.  

The elevator wouldn't go up fast enough, then I had to quick turn my water back on, get into my apartment and take care of my issue.  I was hoping that would be the end of it, haha. 

Finally, we get picked up nearly 45 mins late and get on the road.  I'm drifting in and out of sleep as we pick up the others and hit the highway.  Later, I'm driven to consciousness because one of my friends is "sick" just as I had been.  The turkey dinner was blamed.

We pressed on.  We broke through the Caracas city limits and all of the sudden my body, more specifically my stomach was back to its old tricks.  I was told we were only 30 mins away.  I thought I could make it and started to meditate.  It got worse as did the traffic.  I inquired again. Only about 30 minutes. 

Lies, lies, lies, oh lies.  

I was trying to do anything to keep my mind off of it.  I thought of the desert, started biting my tongue, and changed body angles.  My friends told me we were getting close, and that the ocean meant the airport was nearby.  The road we took bent all the way back left so I was falsely given the impression that close was mere minutes.  Minutes were about 15 and I had already devised the plan.  I leave everything, Marshall grabs my bag, the others get my luggage and I go.  Finally we saw the terminal. 

Ever notice how the closer you get the worse you have to go?  It's awful. 

The van stopped as did security.  I didn't care. I jumped an bolted.  I ran into the terminal and found the bathroom.  And not a moment too soon.  

The problem now was there was no TP.  Go figure right?  But I should know better, it's Venezuela.  I was desperate.  My Batbelt-like backpack had emergency wet wipes, but I didn't have that with me. I now appreciate the quality of Under Armour socks more than ever.

Meanwhile, one of my friends who was told she could bring multiple checked bags was told now she couldn't.  She was in shock and crying.  She was in the process of moving her stuff back as she wasn't going to return to CIC after this school year.  We had to take all her bags and get them down to two bags...and fast.  We had to be in customs in 20 mins.  Luckily the three of us got things taken care of.  

We were very lucky that am, as we got to the terminal in time for two others to catch their 8am flight even with our very late arrival and customs.  

The three of us did the customs thing and got to our gate in plenty of time.  The flight to ATL wasn't bad at all.  I was pretty doped up and in tune to my "Going Home" mix.  We parted in ATL, I waited about 45 mins to catch my Moline flight, and hit the skyline.  Flight was solid and Halac was there to pick me up (both figuratively and literally. Dude has a mean bear hug).  The only issue I had was that Delta went Wolverine on my bags.  Three big gashes.  I didn't care. I was in America and I was still on schedule.

Halac and his dad greeted me with a hug, we threw the bag into the car and hit the road.  I was freezing.  All I had with me that was "warm" was a hoodie.  The temperature change sucked. 

They took me to a bar for am American beer and we left to go to my uncles where my family was celebrating Turkey Day.  

We pulled up, I thanked them, and I scuttled up to the door with my stuff.  I text my brother Marcus to have him meet me at the door.  There was some technology issues because he nor his wife got my messages.  They were supposed to film the whole deal, but oh well.   Marcus somehow was at the doorway when I opened the door.  I gave him and big hug and snaked around to the left, through the kitchen and into the dinning room where they were all playing cards.  

"Sorry, I'm late" I announced.  My mom looked at me and then through me.  She was in shock.  Then it was water works time.  I gave her a big hug while everyone was else said, "HEY!".  Instantly, my sister followed her up with some tears of her own.  I gave out hugs and then the commotion carried out into the kitchen.  

I stood out there consoling my mom in the fact that I was actually there and real.  My sister-in-law Nicole, left to go pick up my dad who had just gotten off work.  Upon arrival everyone greeted him and just before he walked into the kitchen I stepped out and said hey.  He did the double take and then smiled a huge, grin and gave me a bear hug.  I don't think anyone really recognized me at first since I've lost about 20ish pounds since heading south.  

The rest of the evening was just spend hanging out with family and relaxing.  I had traveled over 2600 miles over 16 hours to get back.  But I had done it.  I'm not very good at surprises and for me to hold that one within and for those few that I told to do the same was pretty cool.  

I had lived my whole time in VZ thinking about that moment.  It gave me something to focus on when days we hard, when my emotions got rough, and when I was homesick. 

It was a great feeling for me personally to know that I'd made it through the storm of everything I had dealt with since leaving Clinton in July. 

Returning for the First Time

Being back has been a real adjustment.  I thought reverse culture shock was a joke but it is real.  Here are a few things that have been a challenge for me.

1. Stores.  Hyvee, Target, the mall.  So many things available and way less wait time.  It's overwhelming to see how much we have at our finger tips.
2. Driving.  I haven't driven since I left.  It was both freeing and weird.  Traffic here is organized and has governance.  Plus no one here uses there horns.  
3. Sounds.  It's so quiet here at my parents house.  I haven't heard any sirens or car alarms.  It's odd.
4. The gym/weight room.  Being around students working out instead of dudes on 'roids or girls with bionic enhancements.  There is no waiting and a work out takes half the time.
5. No guards, electric fences, blacked out windows on cars, security gates anywhere.  It provides a blanket of security in a hectic place, but here it's not needed at all. 
6. The food.  I have been particular about reintroducing myself to foods here, but I've noticed how they make me feel and how fast they attached to my new figure.  Makes me wonder what exactly we eat here. 
7. Being able to talk to people.  I found myself talking to random people at stores, workers, baristas, whoever.  It's so nice to physically talk to someone.  
8. America.  Just the vibe, the liberty, it's home.  We really have a great place to live in as citizens.  I know there are issues and situations that aren't great, but God, we could have it so much worse. 
9. I lost my drivers license in my first week in Valencia.  This process would take infinitely long back in Venezuela, but here I was in and out of the DMV in under 30 mins including processing time.  I saved 2.5 hours of my life for something better.
10. Clothing.  I forgot how informal (and sometimes ridiculous) the dress is here.  I haven't seen people in public wearing sweat pants, pajamas pants,  flat bills, and coats(!) in a long time. I honestly forgot people sag their pants too.  I'm out of the loop. 

Cha-cha-cha-changes

1. The town looks and feels different.  As does the school.  I went back for a few hoops games and it was just odd.  Seeing people and chatting with some was nice, but it just feels weird.
2. While Christmas shopping I looked around a lot, just taking things in.  Thinking.  We have so much at our disposal or desire and for what? I understand that you should be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor, but I noticed that while walking around I needed and wanted nothing.  Not one thing.  I'm not special or being holier than thou, I just realized how little I need in terms of clothes, goods, and entertainment. I have my suitcase of stuff I brought plus a few workout clothes, stocking hat, and a coat.  That's it.  I went to my house and saw all the other "stuff" I had stored.  For what? When I come back, I'm going remedy that.
3. Being back makes you confront a lot of thoughts, feelings, and stances you made before you left.  I've driven around, had my senses process a lot of stimuli that are catalysts to memories.  I have had some ghosts and lingering ideas that trickled back in when they found I was comfortable and less busy.  The week of gray days that Clinton has had probably creates a more introspective atmosphere as well.  
4. It's a very interesting thing to see how much I've grown and been altered/changed by my experiences in Valencia.  It's also interesting to see how certain things have or haven't changed here. 
5. It's so odd to read the papers here and feel the distance between the life I was just living and this one.  In a few days election will take place all over VZ and whatever happens with them will surely garner a response.  It's wild to be so far away and detached from things that I was living with daily, and more importantly saw my local friends really wade through.  I hope things improve and are safe down there during this time. 

I think...

1. If I keep applying for one job every day this month (as I have) that something has to come up.
2. I still prefer books to TV. It was a change for me when I first left, but I'm not going back. 
3. I may have jumped the gun on wishing people Merry Christmas, but everyone I have gone I do so (I started on Black Friday- no I didn't shop, but did go to the grocery store).
4. Everyone should travel to a place where life is much different then where the live even if it's intercontinental.  Perspective is a great gift.
5. It's going to take a week or two to get adjusted to this pace of life again.
6. My body is so used to near 100 degree temps that I'm not going to get used to this cold before I go.  
7. I'm overwhelmed by the number of people that have sent me a text, email, or whatever wishing me safe travels, welcome back, or just a hello.  It's cool to know how many nice people you are affiliated with.  
8. Life is too short, unfair, and hard.  But it is beautiful.  I recently went to a visitation for a former teammate.  Even in the wake of tragedy, his family was positive, strong, and full of life.  They were truly celebrating his life and what he had done.  What a testament to someone who has passed, when it is all said and done, that people can gather in that manner and think/discuss/recall experiences that give us a laugh, strength or just a smile.  More importantly, let us be able to share those thoughts of love and caring to people in our daily life.  Nothing is guaranteed.  

December

The new project I've been working on is doing one thing a day for someone.  I've done both anonymous actions/donations and some where people know it is me.  I have been keeping a journal about what I've done, how it's impacted me, and when the person knows it's me, how they react.  I have gotten a kick out of the people who see/hear/help me with this act.  Their reaction is great, so I can imagine how the recipient feels. I haven't decided whether I will share these or keep them to myself.  I'm not trying to be better than anyone, make anyone feel guilty, or pressure you into doing something like this.  It's something I've wanted to do for a while and I thought I'd share the idea with you. 

Closing 

I'm sorry for the lack of pictures, but I had to take my laptop in for maintenance on the keyboard.  The next post will have them.  

Please remember that this time is hard on many people, whether they have recently lost someone, lost someone this year or carry memories on through yet another holiday season. Spread well wishes and genuine regard to those that you care about during this time to help ease the holiday blues.  

 

Eddie Vedder once sang, "It's a fragile thing, this life we lead." As the holidays near remember to (as I remind myself) to stay in the moment and get everything out of the seconds you spend with those that you care about (whether that is with a phone call, skype, or in person).   

Got a little deep there...sorry.  Just been a weird few days of thinking and living.  Lot to take in. 

Anyway,  have a great end of the week!  Drive safe and remember to not use your brights in the fog...common misconception.

Until next time,

Kellen Robert Schneeberger