Euro Size

I knew before coming to Europe for the second time that sizes here are not the same as home. You may think I’m referring to shoe or clothing sizes, which of course aren’t measured the same way here. No, I’m talking about all those other things that come in small packages in European countries. I recall experiencing this with my brother Tyler eight years ago on my first trip to Europe. It was my first shower since landing in Germany, and one that I had been wishing for since about my ninth or tenth hour on the flight. I recall standing in a stall with my neck bent to avoid hitting the ceiling, a showerhead on a detachable hose the height of my pelvis, and about two inches of wiggly-room on either side of me. I got clean that day, but have had claustrophobic feelings in showers ever since. Fortunately I was prepared this time for small showers, but was surprised about other small things I had forgotten about. I have to say that I am enjoying them this time though. They are unique, efficient, and kind of cute. It makes me think that perhaps all the things I’m used to at home are just a bit too large. You probably have to come here to judge that for yourself. Here are some of the other super size small things Trisha and I have noticed in are brief visit so far. The tiny shower (see above), little apartment elevator (fun and speedy), the bitty trashcan (we are throwing out much less), small granola bars (cause of biggest grief), cute paper towel squares (don’t really care), quick and efficient cars (5 Euros per gallon of gas), small coffees (Trisha’s sadness), proportioned dinner sizes at restaurants (no super size me), and other tiny items such as our pequeno t.v., bed, fridge, and yogurts. Overall it’s a nice and occasionally humorous change of pace. Ask me in a few months if I feel the same way.