I type this from a lovely hotel room in Amsterdam. The majority of the group got up early to go to the Anne Frank museum, I just couldn't do it. Woke up this morning feeling a little under the weather, several of the group have been battling the creeping crud--think its my turn now. At least it's at the end of the trip.
We are done. It's an odd feeling. I feel as though a weight has been lifted from my shoulder, but it is a little anticlimactic. This has been a wonderful group of people and I will miss them. The trip exceeded my expectations. All that's left is to get them on a plane tomorrow morning, I think because of that everyone will be circumspect tonight. At least I hope. I'm rallying energy to go out and explore a little and hopefully do a little shopping as I haven't bought anything during this trip besides a tshirt and a bottle of champagne.
I can't wait to be home with my critters and all the things I take for granted. There is no place like home.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Friday, June 15, 2012
Two weeks down, two days to go!
Oh my, when you don't blog for a couple of days, it's almost overwhelming on where to begin. I almost don't know how to capture the last few days.
I'm actually going to work backwards and begin with last night. Yesterday was one of those truly amazing days of leadership programming--we started at 6am and went to one of the world's largest floral auctions--they do 9 million euros of business each day, typically before 10am. It was organized chaos, but a wonder to see. From there we went to a tomato farm (pic attached). This was unlike any tomato farm I've ever been on--the plants grow 10 meters high. The farmer shared a consistent message we've heard all along this trip--he's growing a product to be appreciated and enjoyed. Our realization is that in the US we grow products that will hold up for storage and for transportation, not as much for enjoyment. The innovativeness of the Dutch is another consistent message we have received. They grow on small areas of land and have to continually figure out how to do it better.
From tomatoes we went to mushrooms and had one of the most amazing meals of the trip! At the mushroom farm! Every wonder how mushrooms are produced, just ask--we are experts! From there we stopped at a rose farm that was absolutely incredible--roses bigger than a salad plate on all colors, heights, sizes. It was a well placed spot as we all literally did take time to smell the roses.
Then then day got even better. During the whole trip, there was much discussion about the "4 course asparagus dinner" that we were suppose to have on this day. The restaurant was across the border in Germany and we were all pretty exhausted when we arrived, it had already been a long day. When we arrived we were greeted by the owner of the tour company that helped to arrange this trip and the owner of the asparagus farm and restaurant. You would have thought we were royalty, the hospitality and enthusiasm that these individuals extended to our group was second to none. We were the first group of Americans on is farm and we learned about his operation and why he went into the restaurant business. Then we had an incredible dinner--yes, that was mostly asparagus.
During the last week we've had some challenges with our German guide that has been with us. She obviously doesn't like Americans or people for that matter. The class has done well though, they are still respectful, but she was largely ignored--which she probably preferred. We still thanked her last night on Wedgworth fashion, and on the way back to the hotel she "thanked" us in the most bizarre set of words I've ever heard. She explained pretty much how miserable she's been this past week, but she hoped we had memories. We were all dumbfounded. We realized though that some people are just miserable as a whole and there was nothing we could do to change that, info think we learned something from the experience though and she certainly didn't diminish from the trip itself.
My goodness, I've already written so
Much and that was only yesterday!
Other highlights of the last couple days were a really innovative lettuce farm and time at Rabobank, the 3rd largest bank in the Netherlands.
Christy Chiarelli, now the unofficial member of Class VIII, started off our reflection the other night. She shared a quote about not only living the length of your life, but the width as well. That has really stuck with me. I'm incredible grateful to this program as it has allowed me to live the width--for as much as I sometime complain, I realize how fortunate I am. It's been an amazing two weeks--but I am glad home is only two days away!
I'm actually going to work backwards and begin with last night. Yesterday was one of those truly amazing days of leadership programming--we started at 6am and went to one of the world's largest floral auctions--they do 9 million euros of business each day, typically before 10am. It was organized chaos, but a wonder to see. From there we went to a tomato farm (pic attached). This was unlike any tomato farm I've ever been on--the plants grow 10 meters high. The farmer shared a consistent message we've heard all along this trip--he's growing a product to be appreciated and enjoyed. Our realization is that in the US we grow products that will hold up for storage and for transportation, not as much for enjoyment. The innovativeness of the Dutch is another consistent message we have received. They grow on small areas of land and have to continually figure out how to do it better.
From tomatoes we went to mushrooms and had one of the most amazing meals of the trip! At the mushroom farm! Every wonder how mushrooms are produced, just ask--we are experts! From there we stopped at a rose farm that was absolutely incredible--roses bigger than a salad plate on all colors, heights, sizes. It was a well placed spot as we all literally did take time to smell the roses.
Then then day got even better. During the whole trip, there was much discussion about the "4 course asparagus dinner" that we were suppose to have on this day. The restaurant was across the border in Germany and we were all pretty exhausted when we arrived, it had already been a long day. When we arrived we were greeted by the owner of the tour company that helped to arrange this trip and the owner of the asparagus farm and restaurant. You would have thought we were royalty, the hospitality and enthusiasm that these individuals extended to our group was second to none. We were the first group of Americans on is farm and we learned about his operation and why he went into the restaurant business. Then we had an incredible dinner--yes, that was mostly asparagus.
During the last week we've had some challenges with our German guide that has been with us. She obviously doesn't like Americans or people for that matter. The class has done well though, they are still respectful, but she was largely ignored--which she probably preferred. We still thanked her last night on Wedgworth fashion, and on the way back to the hotel she "thanked" us in the most bizarre set of words I've ever heard. She explained pretty much how miserable she's been this past week, but she hoped we had memories. We were all dumbfounded. We realized though that some people are just miserable as a whole and there was nothing we could do to change that, info think we learned something from the experience though and she certainly didn't diminish from the trip itself.
My goodness, I've already written so
Much and that was only yesterday!
Other highlights of the last couple days were a really innovative lettuce farm and time at Rabobank, the 3rd largest bank in the Netherlands.
Christy Chiarelli, now the unofficial member of Class VIII, started off our reflection the other night. She shared a quote about not only living the length of your life, but the width as well. That has really stuck with me. I'm incredible grateful to this program as it has allowed me to live the width--for as much as I sometime complain, I realize how fortunate I am. It's been an amazing two weeks--but I am glad home is only two days away!
Monday, June 11, 2012
This is truly the Amazing Race!
As I have often said, this is the Amazing Race of leadership programming--lots of days on the road, working together and being out of your comfort zone.
Today, we arrived in Amsterdam. This city has such a good vibe--and no it's not from the coffee shops. It's bright, clean and not crowded with hoards of people. Already I know I want to come back and spend some time. We had an incredible tour guide for our city tour--she was enthusiastic, funny and very knowledgable. So much so, that as we were standing on a corner as she was explaining the red light district a guy came running up and asking if she knew where an address was...when she said "yes"...the camera crews descended. Yes, it was literally two teams from CBS' Amazing Race. Our guide spent about five minutes giving them directions while our cameras clicked away. Talk about a WLI first--we may end up in the cutting room floor, but we sure have a memory!
We have a full day tomorrow, tonight you could tell that tiredness has set in and that nerves are frayed. Hopefully we can power through the next few days.
Today, we arrived in Amsterdam. This city has such a good vibe--and no it's not from the coffee shops. It's bright, clean and not crowded with hoards of people. Already I know I want to come back and spend some time. We had an incredible tour guide for our city tour--she was enthusiastic, funny and very knowledgable. So much so, that as we were standing on a corner as she was explaining the red light district a guy came running up and asking if she knew where an address was...when she said "yes"...the camera crews descended. Yes, it was literally two teams from CBS' Amazing Race. Our guide spent about five minutes giving them directions while our cameras clicked away. Talk about a WLI first--we may end up in the cutting room floor, but we sure have a memory!
We have a full day tomorrow, tonight you could tell that tiredness has set in and that nerves are frayed. Hopefully we can power through the next few days.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Things I've realized on this trip...
1. The French and Belgium's have the right idea about food--it is an experience that should be enjoyed--as natural as possible. No one here is overweight, yet they eat cheese, bread, etc. but it's fresh and natural--not processed. My "not so new year's" resolution will be to eat better when I get home. More fresh fruit and veggies, less junk. Except for my beloved Copper Monkey--whose in for a say cheeseburger on the 18th?
2. One person can bring a group down. But the resiliency of a group of people is amazing. We've encountered a German tour guide that is less than stellar. The group has remembered their etiquette lesson from the first seminar that everyone deserves respect. Because of that, she won't be an issue, but I wish she'd realize what a wonderful group of people she's working with.
3. All European cities are not alike--While I love Prague and now Paris, not so enamored with Brussels. It doesn't have the charm or identity others do--it's crowded, loud and a bit unnerving. I don't think I want to return.
4. I do have a pretty kick-ass job. Somebody today mentioned hating having to go back to work in a week. I realized that I am working. While I do love what I do--not giving up on the vineyard idea, might be a great retirement option.
5. There is no place like home...spent the morning learning about the European Union and Parlimentarium. For all that seems wrong with the United States, our for fathers had it right. We do live in amazing country and the more I learn and travel to other places, I'm happy to live where I do. I miss it a great deal.
I'm sure I'll have more--it's been a long day. I'm thankful we all have a day off tomorrow to rest and regroup.
2. One person can bring a group down. But the resiliency of a group of people is amazing. We've encountered a German tour guide that is less than stellar. The group has remembered their etiquette lesson from the first seminar that everyone deserves respect. Because of that, she won't be an issue, but I wish she'd realize what a wonderful group of people she's working with.
3. All European cities are not alike--While I love Prague and now Paris, not so enamored with Brussels. It doesn't have the charm or identity others do--it's crowded, loud and a bit unnerving. I don't think I want to return.
4. I do have a pretty kick-ass job. Somebody today mentioned hating having to go back to work in a week. I realized that I am working. While I do love what I do--not giving up on the vineyard idea, might be a great retirement option.
5. There is no place like home...spent the morning learning about the European Union and Parlimentarium. For all that seems wrong with the United States, our for fathers had it right. We do live in amazing country and the more I learn and travel to other places, I'm happy to live where I do. I miss it a great deal.
I'm sure I'll have more--it's been a long day. I'm thankful we all have a day off tomorrow to rest and regroup.
Friday, June 8, 2012
Hello Brussels
A week ago we left--it easily feel likes a month. Overall the trip has gone well--just a few minor bumps along the way. The group is doing really well--though I think we are all looking forward to some free time this weekend.
We left Reims on Thursday morning. Overall, I loved France. I didn't think I would--but the history, the food, the incredible countryside all contributed to my favorable impression. I would definitely love to return--and if our financing goes through would consider being the care taker of a vineyard. We are still raising capital, so I'm not giving up my day job yet!
On Thursday morning we headed for the Meuse Argonne American cemetery. This is easily one of the most incredible places I've ever been to--one of my new goals will be to return on Memorial Day. I have never been a huge history buff and had never heard about this place prior to the trip-but I found myself walking into the chapel with tears forming in my eyes. Over 14,000 are buried here and this cemetery represents the largest loss of Americans in one battle (over 30,000). Our tour guide (the assistant superintendent), met us with a "hi y'all"...which was much appreciated after 5 days of French accents. Jay Blount, our guide is a former Army officer who now works for the American Battlefield Memorial Association, an organization that reports directly to the Executive Branch of our government. I've never been prouder to be an American than to stand in that cemetery and listen to Jay tell the story of the land, the war and our promise to not forget about those who fought. Everyday, seven days a week, Jay and his crew of 8 men wash every one of the 14,000 crosses. Yes, everyday. One of the groundsmen has worked there for 26 years, his job is to hand trim around the base of each cross--yes, hand trim everyone, for 26 years. I couldn't get to him, but one member of the class made it a point to walk to him, stop him and shake his hand and thanked him for taking care of these American soldiers. The man hugged him and cried. I will never, ever forget this place or Jay and I will return.
We left there and headed to the tiny country of Luxembourg. Have you ever given much thought to Luxembourg? Yah, me neither. It's 80 miles by 50 miles, has 500,000 people and is financial powerhouse. We learned about the banking industry and more about Luxembourg itself. From there, we actually went to Trier, Germany to spend the night. This is the oldest city in Germany--but I don't think I appreciated it as I had a better taste in my mouth for Germany after being at the Cemetery.
It's amazing that you can cross in and out of countries with no border stops, the group is disappointed as they aren't getting any passport stamps.
Today we learned all about the Ag policy of the European Union from one of the best speakers I've heard--he made this topic interesting, even after 2.5 hours. Then we came to our hotel on the outskirts of Brussels--this city is so different than Paris and Luxembourg--it's huge and obviously the political powerhouse of Europe. I look forward to learning more about it tomorrow.
I'm missing home, the critters and the small comforts. Living out of a suitcase is getting a bit old. Im looking forward to hopefully the next week going well and getting on the plane on Sunday.
We had planned a Belmont watching party tomorrow night. We are all disappointed "I'll Have Another" isn't running.
I hope all is well in your respective parts of the world--
Love,
H.
We left Reims on Thursday morning. Overall, I loved France. I didn't think I would--but the history, the food, the incredible countryside all contributed to my favorable impression. I would definitely love to return--and if our financing goes through would consider being the care taker of a vineyard. We are still raising capital, so I'm not giving up my day job yet!
On Thursday morning we headed for the Meuse Argonne American cemetery. This is easily one of the most incredible places I've ever been to--one of my new goals will be to return on Memorial Day. I have never been a huge history buff and had never heard about this place prior to the trip-but I found myself walking into the chapel with tears forming in my eyes. Over 14,000 are buried here and this cemetery represents the largest loss of Americans in one battle (over 30,000). Our tour guide (the assistant superintendent), met us with a "hi y'all"...which was much appreciated after 5 days of French accents. Jay Blount, our guide is a former Army officer who now works for the American Battlefield Memorial Association, an organization that reports directly to the Executive Branch of our government. I've never been prouder to be an American than to stand in that cemetery and listen to Jay tell the story of the land, the war and our promise to not forget about those who fought. Everyday, seven days a week, Jay and his crew of 8 men wash every one of the 14,000 crosses. Yes, everyday. One of the groundsmen has worked there for 26 years, his job is to hand trim around the base of each cross--yes, hand trim everyone, for 26 years. I couldn't get to him, but one member of the class made it a point to walk to him, stop him and shake his hand and thanked him for taking care of these American soldiers. The man hugged him and cried. I will never, ever forget this place or Jay and I will return.
We left there and headed to the tiny country of Luxembourg. Have you ever given much thought to Luxembourg? Yah, me neither. It's 80 miles by 50 miles, has 500,000 people and is financial powerhouse. We learned about the banking industry and more about Luxembourg itself. From there, we actually went to Trier, Germany to spend the night. This is the oldest city in Germany--but I don't think I appreciated it as I had a better taste in my mouth for Germany after being at the Cemetery.
It's amazing that you can cross in and out of countries with no border stops, the group is disappointed as they aren't getting any passport stamps.
Today we learned all about the Ag policy of the European Union from one of the best speakers I've heard--he made this topic interesting, even after 2.5 hours. Then we came to our hotel on the outskirts of Brussels--this city is so different than Paris and Luxembourg--it's huge and obviously the political powerhouse of Europe. I look forward to learning more about it tomorrow.
I'm missing home, the critters and the small comforts. Living out of a suitcase is getting a bit old. Im looking forward to hopefully the next week going well and getting on the plane on Sunday.
We had planned a Belmont watching party tomorrow night. We are all disappointed "I'll Have Another" isn't running.
I hope all is well in your respective parts of the world--
Love,
H.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Au Revoir France
Tonight is our last night in France. I succumbed to class pressure and joined most of the group at the fine Irish bar in Reims. The picture is with two participants, one of who spotted a subtle American flag shirt today in honor of D day. I left after one beer--the majority of the group is still there, making friends and buying the place out of tshirts.
Today was a real learning experience-- in that I learned I really want to own a vineyard and grow grapes for champagne. Seriously. I could do this and be very happy. Now, I learned good vineyard land goes for 1,000,000 euros per hectare (lets say $500,000/acre), but I'm not deterred. We're meeting with europe's largest Ag lender next week-- think I'll drop off an application. Also have an equity partner lined up and still accepting shareholders-- think we could make thus work!
I have loved France and while looking forward to heading to Luxembourg tomorrow--will be sad to leave this area. I look forward to returning some day.
Tomorrow marks 10 days left of the trip. It is going by quickly and I'm looking forward to the other countries on our route.
Today was a real learning experience-- in that I learned I really want to own a vineyard and grow grapes for champagne. Seriously. I could do this and be very happy. Now, I learned good vineyard land goes for 1,000,000 euros per hectare (lets say $500,000/acre), but I'm not deterred. We're meeting with europe's largest Ag lender next week-- think I'll drop off an application. Also have an equity partner lined up and still accepting shareholders-- think we could make thus work!
I have loved France and while looking forward to heading to Luxembourg tomorrow--will be sad to leave this area. I look forward to returning some day.
Tomorrow marks 10 days left of the trip. It is going by quickly and I'm looking forward to the other countries on our route.
The restorative power of sleep
Bonjour--
Did you know that the French really don't say good morning?
Woke up this morning a new women after a full night's sleep. I can't believe how much better the world seems--the last two days were pretty rough.
It is June 6th, D Day, and we are in France. How amazing is that? This program has given me many incredible experiences, for as much as I sometimes get disgruntled with people and travel.
We are in Reims--about two hours north of Paris. When I travel, I always play "could I see myself living here"--I could live in Reims. Yup, if the tenure thing doesnt work out, I'm thinking of a small champagne vineyard/leadership retreat. Doesn't sound half bad does it? Don't worry Alix--you can spend a couple of months here too! You would love it as well. The history here is incredible--I wish I paid more attention to history in school. It is amazingly beautiful as well--and the fact that it is the champagne region in France doesn't hurt either. I love agriculture
We are loading the bus to begin our day--hopefully I will write more later tonight. I hope all is well in the states!
Did you know that the French really don't say good morning?
Woke up this morning a new women after a full night's sleep. I can't believe how much better the world seems--the last two days were pretty rough.
It is June 6th, D Day, and we are in France. How amazing is that? This program has given me many incredible experiences, for as much as I sometimes get disgruntled with people and travel.
We are in Reims--about two hours north of Paris. When I travel, I always play "could I see myself living here"--I could live in Reims. Yup, if the tenure thing doesnt work out, I'm thinking of a small champagne vineyard/leadership retreat. Doesn't sound half bad does it? Don't worry Alix--you can spend a couple of months here too! You would love it as well. The history here is incredible--I wish I paid more attention to history in school. It is amazingly beautiful as well--and the fact that it is the champagne region in France doesn't hurt either. I love agriculture
We are loading the bus to begin our day--hopefully I will write more later tonight. I hope all is well in the states!
Monday, June 4, 2012
Incredible day of programming...
"make your voice heard, not just in Florida--but around the world.".
Matthew Johnston stated this during his closing remarks to the class. Matthew was in Class II if the program and put together a day of programming that was truly incredible. They say the Gator Nation is everywhere, so is the WLI nation.
Three hours of sleep later, we are up and ready for the world's largest market.
12 nights to go....
Matthew Johnston stated this during his closing remarks to the class. Matthew was in Class II if the program and put together a day of programming that was truly incredible. They say the Gator Nation is everywhere, so is the WLI nation.
Three hours of sleep later, we are up and ready for the world's largest market.
12 nights to go....
Sunday, June 3, 2012
What a day!
Today has felt like two days in one--both in the number on miles walked and in the incredible sights I saw. We started out the day doing a group tour of Versailles--when I say "we" it was the WLI and all of Asia it seemed. Still, even with a late start and the obnoxious ignoring of personal space by the crowds, the palace was something else. We in the US,especially those of us from New England, think we have the market cornered in history--we truly don't. Because of my job, I've toured many palaces, but this had to be the most "over the top" one yet. Even the Forbidden City in China doesn't measure up.
After Versailles, we came back to the hotel and everyone scattered as I gave them the afternoon on their own. Christy and I decided to conquer Paris and it did we ever achieve our goal! We started with the most amazing meal--highlights included a very cold bottle of Coke Light and the most amazing French onion soup--seriously, it was worth the trip in itself! We then made our way underground to the metro station, pushed some buttons in the ticket machine and made it to the Cathedral of Notre Dame, as it is Sunday after all. While I'm not a church goer, there is something pretty special when you walk through.
From there we walked down the Seine to the Louvre. The first Sunday of the month the museums are free and there was a crowd, but our tour guide told us about secret entrance, which we used. We did not pass go, or collect $200, we headed straight to the Mona Lisa. We saw her--snapped a few pics and then hiked out.
From there we walked back towards the metro station, but got side tracked in some wonderful side streets--lots of cafes, shops, etc. We found the most wonderful gelato shop--it was amazing! My gelato was on a waffle--why don't we serve ice cream on waffles? I didn't feel a bit guilty as we walked a lot today--I wish I would have thought about wearing a pedometer.
So now I'm back at the hotel, tired, but really happy with the day. Everyone seems to be happy and we're ready to begin our leadership programming tomorrow.
Hope all is well in the states--
Hannah
After Versailles, we came back to the hotel and everyone scattered as I gave them the afternoon on their own. Christy and I decided to conquer Paris and it did we ever achieve our goal! We started with the most amazing meal--highlights included a very cold bottle of Coke Light and the most amazing French onion soup--seriously, it was worth the trip in itself! We then made our way underground to the metro station, pushed some buttons in the ticket machine and made it to the Cathedral of Notre Dame, as it is Sunday after all. While I'm not a church goer, there is something pretty special when you walk through.
From there we walked down the Seine to the Louvre. The first Sunday of the month the museums are free and there was a crowd, but our tour guide told us about secret entrance, which we used. We did not pass go, or collect $200, we headed straight to the Mona Lisa. We saw her--snapped a few pics and then hiked out.
From there we walked back towards the metro station, but got side tracked in some wonderful side streets--lots of cafes, shops, etc. We found the most wonderful gelato shop--it was amazing! My gelato was on a waffle--why don't we serve ice cream on waffles? I didn't feel a bit guilty as we walked a lot today--I wish I would have thought about wearing a pedometer.
So now I'm back at the hotel, tired, but really happy with the day. Everyone seems to be happy and we're ready to begin our leadership programming tomorrow.
Hope all is well in the states--
Hannah
Saturday, June 2, 2012
A lovely day in Paris
Good Morning!
We arrived in France around 5:30 am your time, 11:30 am locally. Folks report getting various amounts of sleep on the plane. They are all pretty bleary eyed right now. I slept a bit and an in desperate need of a Coke Lite. After an endless immigration line at the airport (note to self--stay away from the Charles de Gualle airport in the future) we finally made it to arrivals and met our guide, Hedwig, or Heddy to her new bst frinds from FL.
We're now touring all the highlights of Paris, we just passed the statue of "The Thinker"--it's hard to believe we're are actually here. This city is amazing, the history and architecture are incredible. I can't wait to explore more tomorrow when we have a little time on our own.
Hopefully I will post pics tomorrow.
please excuse typos--I'm typing this on the bus.
H.
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