Often we get Passports and think "Wow, these are valid for such a long time." And then, if not traveling outside the country often, you kind of forget that they do, in fact, expire.
We have some visitors coming in March - I am sooooooo excited - and due to an experience an acquaintance from school recently had, I thought to ask 'my other mom' when her passport expires. I'm glad I did. It expires in Sept. '08. Which will be fine for coming to Switzerland(CH). Because the Passport expires AFTER the 3 month expiration window.
Yes - there are expiration windows that certain countries have. If your passport expires less than 3 months after the return travel date from CH back to the US - they aren't going to let you outside of the airport when you get here. And preferably, they have not let you depart from the US to take an overnight flight scrunched up in a little airplane seat only to find yourself stuck upon arrival.
Belgium also has this law along with several other countries. You can easily find this information out from any travel agency or by searching "passport expiration rules" and your browser should direct you to several sources.
You see - a family we know from the school was traveling to Australia for Christmas and figured to break up the flight by staying over in Singapore for 2 nights and sightseeing on the way. They landed in Singapore only to be told by immigration there, that it was not possible for them to leave the airport. Their passports expired in June 08 and Singapore has a 6 month expiration window.
They were faced with the prospect of waiting 44 hours in the airport (brutal!) for their scheduled flight or get re-booked on an earlier flight if available. Fortunately, the whole family was able to re-book together on a flight that left several hours later. Mind you - they were traveling with 5 & 7 yr olds and international flights very often leave once a day (ex. Zurich flights leave the East Coast btwn 5 - 8 pm depending on the airport). They were really lucky.
And because their final destination was Sydney and the return was Sydney, the agent in Zurich did not notice the "long" layover in Singapore. Ouch!
We find it interesting that for the past year - each time we've flown back to CH from the US, they've required us to show our B Permit (resident alien Visa) for CH. Bart doesn't always get this but I have for the last 4 returns. Most other families we know are never asked for their B Permits and usually don't even take them along on their travel. Anyway....
Moral of the story is - If your passport is expiring within the next year and you are expecting to do some overseas travel, make sure to check the immigration laws in the destination country and start your passport renewal process before you desperately need it.
I won't get into all the Middle Eastern immigration laws - suffice it to say that if you've traveled to Israel and then want to go to another Middle Eastern country, you'd better get yourself a new passport.
PS - In case you ever wonder why we refer to Switzerland as 'CH' or the Swiss franc as 'chf' - 1. it's a lot easier to type than 'Switzerland' and 2. is the official shorthand for the country dating back to the original "Confederation of Helvetia" in 1291AD.
Fascinating history incorporating wars (and their 'neutral' stances), Reformation, technical and social world contributions and Banking. But you'll have to look it all up yourself. My next long-term project for German class is to write an essay "auf Deutsch" to explain the US Presidential election process. Can that be a prayer request?
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Back to Hawaii - Oahu
OK - Flipping a bit between Switzerland and Hawaii. They don't have much in common other than we were in both places. And - due to learning a 'new' alphabet - realized that some of the Hawaiian alphabet pronunciations are more 'European' vs American.
Probably because the Europeans actually got there first - the Americans claimed them later. And I do mean claim. If you study the history of the Islands, you find they were "discovered" during the time of "explore and conquer" by larger European nations. The Hawaiian islands had already been unified by Kamehameha I and maintained a very established monarchy and system of government. They welcomed the information the Europeans/Americans would bring but in doing so, lost their independence government and many lost their lives due to exposure to foreign diseases.
Didn't know you were going to be treated to a little history lesson, did you? Well - that's just a gross overview (gross as in large and general) of a fascinating history - both of our country and theirs. On to the fun stuff:
Here we have Santa Grinch! We first saw Santa Grinch Christmas '04. How many people can say their kids dance to the singing of Santa Grinch every Christmas? As you can see, there is much singing and dancing going on in the Tafisi household. Makes up for the lack of cold weather - Nothing says Christmas like "You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch!"
The baby gate stayed put until it was time to open gifts. Too bad it covers the view of the entire Oakland Raiders Christmas Village under the tree. Yes, nothing says Christmas like the Oakland Raiders. Or their little dog named Oakland.
And here are all the cousins at a neighborhood lites festivity. The whole circle was decorated with over the top Christmas light items - Mickey, Rudolph, Pooh Bear, Nativities and giant trees made of beer bottles that had lights synchronized to Christmas carols. Not the true meaning of Christmas but it was very festive looking.
JT (Jiovanni), Teihanni (Hanni-girl), Rachel, Tavanni and Kendra. You can yell any name with "anni" in it and my sister's kids will respond. Did I mention they were absolutely adorable and how much fun we had with them? I even changed diapers. Had to learn the wrestling maneuvers again but so enjoyed spending time with them.
And here's Santa Neti! Neti showed up at the top of the stairs and it didn't take two seconds for 2 yr old, Tavanni, to yell "Hi Dad." And we thought he was so well disguised!
The girls and JT dressed in various animal costumes at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu. If you are on Oahu and want to learn about the cultures that influenced the Islands, let the kids play in a cool learning museum (volcano education) and see beautiful artifacts - we'd encourage you to go. We always enjoy our visits there.
Took the kids miniature golfing. Actually, Bart and I were the only ones who actually golfed (he won). The kids just took off and had more fun hitting the balls into the water features and getting wet than actually trying to drive anything into a hole.
Will have more later from the Big B-day party for Teihanni in a couple of days.
Probably because the Europeans actually got there first - the Americans claimed them later. And I do mean claim. If you study the history of the Islands, you find they were "discovered" during the time of "explore and conquer" by larger European nations. The Hawaiian islands had already been unified by Kamehameha I and maintained a very established monarchy and system of government. They welcomed the information the Europeans/Americans would bring but in doing so, lost their independence government and many lost their lives due to exposure to foreign diseases.
Didn't know you were going to be treated to a little history lesson, did you? Well - that's just a gross overview (gross as in large and general) of a fascinating history - both of our country and theirs. On to the fun stuff:
Here we have Santa Grinch! We first saw Santa Grinch Christmas '04. How many people can say their kids dance to the singing of Santa Grinch every Christmas? As you can see, there is much singing and dancing going on in the Tafisi household. Makes up for the lack of cold weather - Nothing says Christmas like "You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch!"
The baby gate stayed put until it was time to open gifts. Too bad it covers the view of the entire Oakland Raiders Christmas Village under the tree. Yes, nothing says Christmas like the Oakland Raiders. Or their little dog named Oakland.
And here are all the cousins at a neighborhood lites festivity. The whole circle was decorated with over the top Christmas light items - Mickey, Rudolph, Pooh Bear, Nativities and giant trees made of beer bottles that had lights synchronized to Christmas carols. Not the true meaning of Christmas but it was very festive looking.JT (Jiovanni), Teihanni (Hanni-girl), Rachel, Tavanni and Kendra. You can yell any name with "anni" in it and my sister's kids will respond. Did I mention they were absolutely adorable and how much fun we had with them? I even changed diapers. Had to learn the wrestling maneuvers again but so enjoyed spending time with them.
And here's Santa Neti! Neti showed up at the top of the stairs and it didn't take two seconds for 2 yr old, Tavanni, to yell "Hi Dad." And we thought he was so well disguised!
The girls and JT dressed in various animal costumes at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu. If you are on Oahu and want to learn about the cultures that influenced the Islands, let the kids play in a cool learning museum (volcano education) and see beautiful artifacts - we'd encourage you to go. We always enjoy our visits there.
Took the kids miniature golfing. Actually, Bart and I were the only ones who actually golfed (he won). The kids just took off and had more fun hitting the balls into the water features and getting wet than actually trying to drive anything into a hole.
Will have more later from the Big B-day party for Teihanni in a couple of days.Friday, January 25, 2008
Same View - Different Looks
This last week provided some beautiful days and beautiful views. These are taken at various times of day - looking in the same direction (SE). The city of Zuerich is the opposite direction and while a nice place to spend the day, our best view is toward the mountains.
This was at about 7:45am and the ripples on the Lake were pretty wild. And it was cold - esp. as I took the pic in my PJ's. Probably accounts for the slight blur as my hands started to freeze. Couldn't be bothered to put on a coat. And NO - nobody is watching the crazy American lady in PJ's out on her terrace. There'll all inside eating their gipfel's (croissants) and drinking their morning expresso/cappucino, reading their 'Zeitung' and trying to understand the US election process. As if theirs makes more sense....
This was taken around 8pm - and it was still cold. But the sky was sooooo beautiful and the moon has been full and incredible this week. My favorite part of the day is when we've locked the front door, turn out the lights and then take in this view before heading to bed. I probably wrote that same statement a year ago. It's still true.
Another AM shot. You can see where all the air traffic is. Which brings up an interesting topic - All our Northern European air traffic comes in from the SW - not the North. Why? might you ask (as if you cared but I'm going to tell you anyway). Because Germany does not wish to share it's airspace with Switzerland and thus flights going in and out of Zurich must avoid any pretense of being anywhere near Frankfurt or Munich. See - the Germans and Swiss have a mutual thing about each other and it's not always complimentary depending on who you talk to - maybe another day for that topic, especially as I don't want to generalize unfairly.
And this at about 4pm - Yep, it's still cold.
And although it's cold, it's not as cold as our friends have it in IA so we shouldn't really complain. Except most people like to complain about weather and we are no exception. But I do love the snow and pretty sky that the cold brings with it so I'll quit complaining now.
Enjoy your day whereever you are! Our God, is an Awesome God - and very creative judging from the view!
This was at about 7:45am and the ripples on the Lake were pretty wild. And it was cold - esp. as I took the pic in my PJ's. Probably accounts for the slight blur as my hands started to freeze. Couldn't be bothered to put on a coat. And NO - nobody is watching the crazy American lady in PJ's out on her terrace. There'll all inside eating their gipfel's (croissants) and drinking their morning expresso/cappucino, reading their 'Zeitung' and trying to understand the US election process. As if theirs makes more sense....
This was taken around 8pm - and it was still cold. But the sky was sooooo beautiful and the moon has been full and incredible this week. My favorite part of the day is when we've locked the front door, turn out the lights and then take in this view before heading to bed. I probably wrote that same statement a year ago. It's still true.
Another AM shot. You can see where all the air traffic is. Which brings up an interesting topic - All our Northern European air traffic comes in from the SW - not the North. Why? might you ask (as if you cared but I'm going to tell you anyway). Because Germany does not wish to share it's airspace with Switzerland and thus flights going in and out of Zurich must avoid any pretense of being anywhere near Frankfurt or Munich. See - the Germans and Swiss have a mutual thing about each other and it's not always complimentary depending on who you talk to - maybe another day for that topic, especially as I don't want to generalize unfairly.
And this at about 4pm - Yep, it's still cold.
And although it's cold, it's not as cold as our friends have it in IA so we shouldn't really complain. Except most people like to complain about weather and we are no exception. But I do love the snow and pretty sky that the cold brings with it so I'll quit complaining now.Enjoy your day whereever you are! Our God, is an Awesome God - and very creative judging from the view!
Monday, January 21, 2008
The Big Island - Part II
Back to HI - Bart and I say this was the best trip to HI so far. The other trips were great too - sister's wedding, Christmas '03, etc... but this is the first time we've had fun, real fun, with our kids on the islands.
They're both good swimmers now and we went boogey boarding and snorkeling and swimming. Bart and I could actually sit by the pool in conversation with each other or some random guest and not have our eyes glued to the water every moment. Freedom at the pool. And at the ocean - no one crying about how there are waves at the ocean (dare I say, DUH!!).
We found that Rachel loved snorkeling with Bart. Her mom too but ...mom just snorkels when the water and sun are perfect. Otherwise, there are dark shadows and shadowy things and fish in your face and mom quickly swims back to shore while trying not to admit that she's just short of a panic attack. I'm glad I'm a strong swimmer. And fast enough for my age. I'd hate to admit any weakness. :)
Rachel was a natural with her little board and should I find the picture, I would post her and her posse - a group of 3 boys of the same age that were also out there. It was too cute - and I guess a sign of things to come. Good news is - she was holding her own and not acting silly - just being one of the guys.
Kendra has her attack face on - probably said "that was awesome!" or something equally loquacious (see, I'm trying to get Junie B. Jones out of my head and using BIG words). She did get rolled a couple of times by the waves - "always watch the ocean", "always stay on your board." She's learning.
Bart and Rachel out snorkeling. It's really cool to watch them out there together. Enjoying each other's company. I spend so much time with the girls that it's great to see them connect with Bart in areas where I can take a back seat. Otherwise known as working on my tan with a magazine while they float in the water - far out in the water.
It's not that I don't want to snorkle. I like snorkeling. When I can see about 20 - 30 ft in front of me, and the sun is shining through clear water and I can see the fish coming toward my face. Instead of suddenly appearing in front of my face. That's all.
Funny Conversation and proof that our children are learning in school:
Road Sign in Kona - Construction - 250 feet
They're both good swimmers now and we went boogey boarding and snorkeling and swimming. Bart and I could actually sit by the pool in conversation with each other or some random guest and not have our eyes glued to the water every moment. Freedom at the pool. And at the ocean - no one crying about how there are waves at the ocean (dare I say, DUH!!).
We found that Rachel loved snorkeling with Bart. Her mom too but ...mom just snorkels when the water and sun are perfect. Otherwise, there are dark shadows and shadowy things and fish in your face and mom quickly swims back to shore while trying not to admit that she's just short of a panic attack. I'm glad I'm a strong swimmer. And fast enough for my age. I'd hate to admit any weakness. :)
Rachel was a natural with her little board and should I find the picture, I would post her and her posse - a group of 3 boys of the same age that were also out there. It was too cute - and I guess a sign of things to come. Good news is - she was holding her own and not acting silly - just being one of the guys. 
Kendra has her attack face on - probably said "that was awesome!" or something equally loquacious (see, I'm trying to get Junie B. Jones out of my head and using BIG words). She did get rolled a couple of times by the waves - "always watch the ocean", "always stay on your board." She's learning.
Bart and Rachel out snorkeling. It's really cool to watch them out there together. Enjoying each other's company. I spend so much time with the girls that it's great to see them connect with Bart in areas where I can take a back seat. Otherwise known as working on my tan with a magazine while they float in the water - far out in the water.It's not that I don't want to snorkle. I like snorkeling. When I can see about 20 - 30 ft in front of me, and the sun is shining through clear water and I can see the fish coming toward my face. Instead of suddenly appearing in front of my face. That's all.
Funny Conversation and proof that our children are learning in school:
Road Sign in Kona - Construction - 250 feet
Rachel: What 250 feet?
Parent: You know, they are telling us that in 250 feet there's going to be road construction.
Kendra: But whose feet did they use to measure it with? (Background - she had to measure everyone's foot to see how that would make a difference if it was used for a measurement)
Parent: Well, like you measure with a ruler. One foot is 12 inches. So they measured the distance and it's 250 feet per the ruler. Not someone's actual foot.
Rachel: Oh - so like measuring in meters?
Parent: Yes - it would be something under 100 meters, like 80 - 90.
Rachel: OK. That makes sense.
Tis True. Our kiddo's are getting more comfy with metric. And quite honestly, why didn't the US make the conversion when there was still time? Having to use both - the metric is easier in certain ways. But that's just a personal opinion. I like my weight in kg!
WOW! That's just about all I can say is WOW!
Thank you Kevin Henkes of "Lilly and the Purple Plastic Purse" for this title. Again - 9 years of reading kids books out loud has taken over my neurons and transmitters.
I just went to post Part II of HI and almost closed the page. Because I didn't recognize the Blog page. It wasn't mine. Until I noticed the title's were the same and all of a sudden, I recognized the pictures.
THANK YOU JASON!!!!!!
My artistic and technically proficient and fabulous bro-in-law J has created a new look for us. As I pointed out to him - I'm not good at this sort of thing (computer bloggy creativity) but I am bored with looking at my own blog and could you please help me for I will pay you money because all I'm good at is reading (and perhaps spending the money I have saved by cutting my family's hair - hee hee). He said "Sure - just send a pic or two that you like and I can work on something."
So last week I sent a few pic's, let him know what colors I like and didn't have much else to offer him - oh, a couple title change ideas.
And this is what he did. And I love it. And you can always check out other things he can do by clicking the Kris & Jason link.
Thank You Jason. Sooooooo....How much do I owe you man? :)
I just went to post Part II of HI and almost closed the page. Because I didn't recognize the Blog page. It wasn't mine. Until I noticed the title's were the same and all of a sudden, I recognized the pictures.
THANK YOU JASON!!!!!!
My artistic and technically proficient and fabulous bro-in-law J has created a new look for us. As I pointed out to him - I'm not good at this sort of thing (computer bloggy creativity) but I am bored with looking at my own blog and could you please help me for I will pay you money because all I'm good at is reading (and perhaps spending the money I have saved by cutting my family's hair - hee hee). He said "Sure - just send a pic or two that you like and I can work on something."
So last week I sent a few pic's, let him know what colors I like and didn't have much else to offer him - oh, a couple title change ideas.
And this is what he did. And I love it. And you can always check out other things he can do by clicking the Kris & Jason link.
Thank You Jason. Sooooooo....How much do I owe you man? :)
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