ordinarily there

It's amazing how large and global Starbucks has become.  Although I must admit that it does make me feel at home to see it abroad... even in this mutated form.  In Germany, to-go cups are still a relatively new concept.  Perhaps even trendy... (probably shouldn't dare to make such bold statements).  In a local grocery store, I found a Starbucks branded drink, Seattle Latte in a psuedo-to-go cup with a straw to boot.  I suppose this almost serves as evidence for my claim that to-go cups are still a new concept... For only €1.69 ($2), you can get a processed and preserved drink with a straw.  Or, you could get a real espresso or macchiato for the same price at a local cafe. And I must say that Germans make damn good coffee!

I love that "Yes We Can" has turned into an international idiom.  From Japan to Germany.  Although it can sometimes be super quirky.  In a Germany o2 cell phone shop, I found handmade signage announcing: Yes Du Can.  Yes you can sign-up for o2 flat-rate service - for as long as you want.

While I'm only maintaining this blog for myself, it looks like I've averaged exactly one post per year.  Oopsa. Last week, I came across a bakery that was selling Americans.  Well, they were selling Amerikaner s.  Not having a sweet tooth, I wasn't bold or curious enough to try it.  What would an American taste like anyhow?  In general, German bakeries are delightful.  Pastries are prepared with only a fraction of the sugar and butter of typical American baked goods, making for a firmer and drier texture.  Might sound awful, but it's perfect for savory-leaning folks who like occasional sweets.  I especially love the recipes with fresh fruit like the Pflaumenkuchen.  As far as I know, they are most common in the State of Thueringen.   Source: http://schrebrgarten.de/2007/08/12/pflaumenkuchen/