The team from the States was gradually adjusting to their new world. Most of them, signed up for language classes, that would begin in September. Some had applied for jobs, both on the economy, and at the American army base. Marc listed some things in his book that they had to get used to. He wrote; “The Trudering house was constructed with stone and bricks, and the roof was made of tiles. As a result, the house was loud, because the stairways and floors amplified the noises throughout the building. Because of the cold winters, the windows were double-paned, and each one had what was called a “Rolladen.” They were interlocking shades, that were installed in the outside wall above the window. When you let them down, it added protection from the cold, and shut off all of the light from outside.
We grew accustomed to the different types of light switches, electric outlets, door handles and locks. The small refrigerator seemed strange, but we understood that most Germans shopped several times a week. That way they could get fresh foods, either in the grocery store, or at the popular outdoor markets.
Gasoline and coffee were expensive. But at least it was really good coffee! Clothing and show sizes were completely different. In so many ways, both large and small, Marc wrote that “We were now living in a different world.” Another custom that was very hard to get used to, was that all of the stores closed at 6 pm during the week. On Saturdays, they shut the doors, around 2 in the afternoon.
On Sundays, the only places open, were the bigger gas stations. Today, things have changed and most places stay open until 8 pm. Some laws, have never changed, since I’ve lived in Munich. For example, Sunday is considered a day of rest and quiet, which also means, mowing the lawn or drilling, is not allowed. Lots of people like to go out for walks, and visit family on Sundays. Only a minority of the population go to church. These are just a few examples of what Marc meant by “the different world.”
