Pipi Lounge

One of the more important words or phrase to learn when visiting or living in a new country is, obviously, how or where to find the restroom. Language learning is a tricky thing, no matter what stage of it you’re in - but being comfortable enough “in the heat of the moment” to be able to find the correct place to relieve yourself (or your potty training child) is certainly a goal.

I thought that we had seen and/or learned most of the common signs for restroom here in Europe. You’re pretty safe if you look for WC (water closet) or Toillete. And when, all else fails, there is the common sign of a little lady in a dress vs. a square/stick figure man. We recently, however, took a final opportunity to make a fun day trip before all of Germany/France/Switzerland locks down for the month of November. We traveled a little over an hour to explore a cute little town and visit a somewhat interesting outdoor park.

Odd as the park was, it truly was a fun day with some pretty awesome scenery. As we convinced the local pizza joint that the 11 of us truly were still just 2 households (and thus, within the confines of dining restrictions), we enjoyed our lunch in the completely empty dining room.

And then I spotted it. A brand new indicator for where the restroom was in this place. Honestly, I didn’t even realize it - my kids had to point it out to me. I think you get used to not really being able to read the signs that you just sort of overlook them. But, this is now my favorite restroom sign, hands down.

That’s right, it legit says Pipi Lounge. It’s genius. And hilarious. And I love it. I absolutely laughed out loud and made Dash take my picture pointing at it -ha!

I thought I would try and tie in some sort of spiritual significance here, but I’ve come up with nothing. I mean, there’s always the find joy in all circumstances stance, or the whole God gives us what we need (and for me, in this time, it was some laughter and distraction). While those things are definitely true (among other truths I’m sure you could try and deduce here), I genuinely was just super excited to share the Pipi Lounge sign with the world. Maybe I’ll try and get one for my house one day. ;)

And, as promised, I couldn’t let the week get away from me without an update. I did send out a newsletter this week, so many of you have already been updated. Germany is currently in lockdown for the month of November. The kids are still in school, which is awesome. BFA is finding unique ways for us to use the school day and still be able to connect with students and hang out with them. But, extra curriculars and athletics are on hold. I was just starting to coach JV girls basketball and loving it. I hope we truly do get to open back up in December, but I guess we shall see. Until then, we will do our part, love our German neighbors, trust in the Lord, and watch for ways to do the things God has called us to do.

Until next week…