I’m watching the telly. It’s Kölner Karneval. They’re showing a performance by artists in front of an audience that hasn’t changed in decades, maybe centuries. If you want to see the essence of Germany, of old, unchanged, introverted, antiquated, exclusive Germany, this is it. While the news are full of cultural integration, asylum seekers, diversity – this evening is a celebration of ‘home’, the known, there are no surprises, even after no having looked at this for years and years and years – I recognise the faces. It’s a time warp.

Talking about home – tonight, Pádraig and I are on our own. It’s a strange feeling but good in a way. I think we both know that we’ll be looking our for each other.

Earlier today, I went to a garage that is selling cars for people in wheel chairs. They’re also renting them out. My plan is to get one of them for an afternoon and go for a spin. If that works, we could go on a trip around town, eventually up to the North Sea. And then, who knows where else? (I’m thinking Alaska.)

Today’s German Music Tip
Klüngelköpp,  Stääne – Kölsche Musik….
What’s hot
Home Alone
What’s cold
Alaska
The German word/phrase/verse of the day
Kölsche Jecken und Kölscher Klüngel, die Ewig-Gestrigen