I was supposed to meet at this mysterious address at 3:00 pm. If only I knew who lives there? I was late again as the S-Bahn left me standing. Instead, we said that we will meet at the showgrounds.

Sundays are traditionally hangover days (Frühschoppen) and the hardy ones sat with ‘the hair of the dog’. It is communal and children’s day just as well, Kaffee und Kuchen. This means that many local clubs and organisations join in the parade. Another march through town, kids and families included.

Kickers Halstenbek even takes part in it. Glissi persuaded me to join ‘Kickers’ after our move to Halstenbek.

We can play, but we’re having too much fun. We fished for smaller fish back then.

Up hours before sunrise to cycle 20 km one way, three times a weekend. I still do that.

Unfortunately, Another ‘Kickers’ legend and closest friend couldn’t make it to this year’s event due to illness. Püppy was our youth coach at some stage and taught us a few things. Not much about football though. Ha ha, what we had laughed together. Not this year, Bummer. 

I didn’t recognize any familiar faces as I arrived. Many parents took advantage of another sunny day, the kids were out in force enjoying themselves. I was still looking for friends and started feeling a bit uncomfortable. The way this world is going, I expected someone to say. ‘Oi, what are you looking at?’ 

‘Moin, was schaust Du denn?’ asked Thommy from behind. Ha ha, of course… saved by your best friend and his excited kids. ‘I cling on to you’ I said. I had a wee smirk on my face.

Boy, 30 years later, you still do Sunday sessions in one of my best mate’s company. How many times have we done that? Only this time with his kids directing the procedure. How good is that? 

The Krüger-Crew had meanwhile battled through the baking queue. There is a technique for that, right Thommy? 

Dirk and I played football at ‘Kickers Halstenbek’ together from youth age.

His lovely wife and partner in crime, Katrin, have been happily together since forever. Part of the family is ‘Ille Grünefeld’.

She and her husband Hansi were the heart and soul of our football club. Organizing coffee and sausages before kick-off. Beer and more sausages after the game was played.

Win or lose, Kickers Halstenbek wouldn’t have been the same without Ille and Hansi.

Not to forget Guschi, the heart, and soul of the football team.

They all were the monumental foundation of our football team.

We may not be most successful on the pitch, but our parties are still legendary.

Part of the Krüger-Crew is Kerstin, of whom I don’t know too much about. She does remember me quite well. ‘So Bernie, what about Monday?’

She was the first one to pop the question on Saturday night. ‘Why are you leaving on Sunday already?’ She had a couple of good points. There still is Kaffee und Kuchen on Sunday afternoon. As well as the traditional ‘Proklamation der Ritter-Rotte und des Schützenkönig’s’ (gänsefleisch?) on Monday. 6 years ago, the four of us rocked the tent like you wouldn’t believe.

I was in good form, that I remember. And I even thought of leaving early? You can’t be serious she said. Well, turns out, she does know me better than I know her.

I had a coffee and a beer. Let’s see what happens.

I didn’t quite realize then, that this Schützenfest in 2016 was such a fun and carefree time, that everyone made an effort to be part of this year’s as well.

So, how could I?

Thommy arrived at the Knight’s table, guided by Emilia and Marwin. They kept him at beat.

He is such a good and proud dad.

Slightly accentuated, he enjoyed his beer.

Finally, some time to sit and enjoy good company in the sun. Reni arrived later with chocolate.

Not the eatable kind though. We have a thing, the two of us.

The kids joined in.

And last but not least, all together.

It was a funtubulous afternoon.

Who saw that coming?

Ille of course. 

There was plenty of laughter all around.

The weather couldn’t be any better as was the company.