Gemütlichkeit

'Gemütlichkeit' is one of those German words that cannot really be translated into English without losing its essence but can inadequately taken to mean 'coziness'. Ironically, I was introduced to this word at about 3 'o' clock in the morning, in the cold, wet smoking area of a Soul and Techno club. I was exhausted but didn't want to risk the horrors of the Night Bus again (read: creepy men trying to start a conversation outside a deserted train station...) so I was determined to wait for the trams to start running again. 

Cold Autumn Days

(PS: pretty awesome night out, if you don't count the crazy, skin-head rave guys grabbing you as try to leave the room!) 

Anyway, back to Gemütlichkeit. I have finally moved into my permanent home, which is warm, cozy and friendly. Parts of the city feel familiar to me. I have memories of different places now, rather than just feeling frightened about them. German - although still a complete mystery to me - does not sound so alien. 

Norwegian Chocolate and Caramel Tea (:

I don't think I have quite attained Gemütlichkeit yet - I have not been here long enough for that! However, I believe I am well on the way to achieving it. I feel that soon I will look at Leipzig as home, rather than the place I must temporarily reside. To put it another way, this year is looking less and less like a prison sentence, which it did as recently as last week. 

Earlier today! 

So, here is to Gemütlichkeit, and to being close to achieving it! Prost!

-Rae