This morning was a very relaxing one, thankfully. Last night was a late one with Brunnenfest and everyone simply wanted to sleep this morning. After waking up, slowly, Sara (my exchange partner) and I went to a climbing park. I really had no idea what to expect since I had never been to a climbing park and since I am in a whole new place. After a ten minute car ride, we arrived. It was nothing like I had expected. Once we walked closer, the sound of children’s laughter echoed through the trees. The park was a climbing wonderland built into the trees. It was every kid’s dream. We immediately collected all the appropriate equipment, watched a short tutorial video, and hopped into the trees. There were zip lines and obstacles and even one big jump. I learned very quickly that once you chose a course, there was no turning back. Everything was made of wood and would rock if the wind blew too hard: it made it all the more exciting. Two hours and three courses later, we were exhausted and hungry. We ate our packed lunches in the car as we ventured back to Oberursel. Once we arrived back at Sara’s house, we relaxed, because climbing takes a lot out of you, surprisingly enough. We sat outside in the garden and talked about everything from school to jet lag to what I want to do with my life. After soaking up all the lovely weather, we headed to a gathering of sorts. It was a party for a bride and groom the night before their wedding. It was definitely a new experience for me. It was very casual and calm. The best part was when everyone had plates and smashed them on the ground. I’m not quite sure why they broke all the pottery, but Sara informed me that it was a tradition to do the night before the wedding for good luck. After spending some time there, Sara and I made our way to Jan’s house for a group barbecue. We had a blast! Everyone talked and laughed and ate everything. Once everyone was full, we all made our way to Brunnenfest. Brunnenfest is basically a smaller version of the state fair except it is much more picturesque. We rode rides, took pictures, and ate crepes. I had to leave early because we have a long day tomorrow, but I still had fun. Overall it was a fantastic and beautiful day. Tschüss bis Morgen! ~Lacey M.