We're Here!

I can't believe we've already been living in Germany for over two weeks!



When we first found out we were moving overseas (what feels like an eternity ago), it didn't sink in. Even when we got here, the first few days didn't feel real either since we mostly stayed on base without a vehicle. I kept waiting for a true German experience to be thrust upon me but what I've learned so far is that you have to go out and make it happen.

He's so over this flight!

Once we were out of the lodging on base and put into temporary lodging in a small, quaint village, things started to change. We went to the Bier hall our temporary landlords own and made friends from both Germany and Holland. We were invited to go to their winemaker friend's house the next day on the Mosel River and happily accepted. After seeing a little how the wine is made, tasting the delicious Feinherb and Spätlese, laughing and talking, we were left with new friendships and memories.

Are we in a fairy tale?

One thing I've definitely noticed is how generous and open people are toward us here. We've been blown away by how warm and inviting our encounters with brand new European friends have been. It puts me to shame.

Out exploring Bonn, Germany

In just one day we had breakfast and visited with the landlords from our new house, went to a German Flohmarkt (flea market), visited the house of our Holland friends and went to the winery with them, and watched a true German Fußball game while eating our weight in Schnitzel. One day!!

Outside the Beethoven Haus

The hardest decision we've had so far is deciding where to go next. We did a day trip to Bonn and plan to return, visited Trier a couple of times, have plans for this weekend and next. We're limited (ha!) to Germany at the moment until Nic gets his international driver's license, so in the meantime we'll explore closer to home. We've both been trying to improve our German and are nowhere close but making progress towards fluency!

Coffee with the boys in Bonn

The biggest Haribo shop ever - Nic was in paradise!

We get to move into our house next week and it will be so nice to settle in. We've been living out of suitcases since the middle of December and I'm ready to unpack for a second.

Our new Haus and friends!

In Virginia we were pretty much homebodies but here there's no chance! There's too much to see and live! It's overwhelming in the best way.

He's such a good traveler!

Can you tell I like it here so far?

Even Patrice likes the snow!

What a wasted opportunity if we miss out on cultural experiences and adventures here by trying to bring America with us. Let's get out of our comfort zones and get exploring! :)

Cheers! (Prost)

Bis bald!

-Sarah