Monday, July 20, 2009

One year ago today we.....

moved to Bremen, Germany and started this adventure. It's hard to believe it's been a year, and on the other hand it's gone painfully slow. I want to say one down and one to go, but we really don't know the length of our stay here.

Looking back on the early days, how hard the smallest task was and how scared I was. Those days are over, I have confidence and am comfortable knowing where to go. But I'm still learning how to live here. I barely found out how to use my washer correctly, a month ago! So everyday is a learning experience here. I'm understanding the language better than I speak, but am clueless most of the time.

Some days are really good, and some not so good. I haven't cried in awhile because of missing friends and family, or ached for my old life. But is it because I visited family in April and family just left and I'm heading to the states this weekend. Knowing that is that carrying me through the lonely days or have I adjusted to my new life temporarily?

We have had an amazing experience this year. We have travelled to wonderful places. Spent quality time together as a family and are closer now than ever. Grown a lot in many ways, changed some too. Made this home here feel like a home. But I will always ache for my Home Sweet Home!

I hope to be a Mrs. instead of Frau very soon!

20 comments:

kks said...

a life changing experience, one that someday you will look back on with wonder and amazement, joy and pride that you did it!
so your stay may be longer?....i have an idea....each month have one of your blogger friends come visit, the time will fly! :)
have a good week!
xo

Courtney said...

Gosh, I've only been in this boat 4 months, but I completely understand. It's such a constant mix of emotions to live temporarily somewhere. The other night we attended a party where most everyone there had been in KL for about 8 yrs. It was such a refreshing change from the standard 2yr expat friends we've been hanging with. To be around people who have planted their feet and put everything into this foreign land as their home.

But I do believe home follows you no matter where you are...just how you make the best of it. And while there are plenty of trials and tribulations, I think you've probably grown more than you can even imagine. Congrats on 1 year...and regardless of how many are to follow, I have a feeling you'll make the most of it.

Anonymous said...

Congrats on one year. I imagine the first is the hardest.

OHN said...

Many years ago I spent a summer in Europe (Ottweiler Germany was one lovely places we stayed) and as I look back, I wish I had missed home a little less and appreciated my adventure.

Your circumstances are a little different. It is hard to do when you are thrust into it for an unknown period of time, with no firm "end" in sight. I would imagine the planned family trips really do give you something to look forward to...we ALL need something to look forward to! :)

LenoreNeverM♡re said...

Welcome back darling!!!
Like what they say...it's about the journey & discoveries...
XO*

♥ Braja said...

It's like treading water, isn't it....

Debra said...

We're right here for you darlin'. I can get terribly homesick, even when I'm away for a weekend-but making the most of a situation. You are in my thoughts.

Ann said...

Glad to hear you've survived your first year. I'm sure the next will go much faster than the first! I know your situation is a little different from mine, but all I can say is don't (entirely) wish it away - it will end soon enough on its own! Hope you have a good trip back to the states!

Deidra said...

Isn't it interesting when bitter mixes with sweet? I think it's in these times, when we're least aware of it, that we grow the most. There's an old saying that I love: "God is not as interested in my comfort as He is in my character." I don't always love living those words, but I do love the truth in them.

Enjoy your weekend "back home."

Kwana said...

Happy Anniversary. You are a brave woman. Be proud of yourself. You're doing so well and are a true inspiration.

Wendi said...

Hey, Kathy! What a great, interesting blog; I can't wait to read about your adventures!

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog.

Wendi Aarons

Andrea said...

WOW..what an adventure..the good and the bad. I am thankful you recognize the growing and the benifits of the journey. GOD has a great plan for each of us and many times it is not easy along the way. I will praying for you as you continue your journey.
Blessings, andrea

preppyplayer said...

I think Courtney really said it, you probably can't imagine how much you have grown from this experience.
And I'm here to tell you,
"my, how you've grown!"
Can't wait to see you :)

Shady Lady said...

Wow...a year. Hugs to you my bloggy friend.

Fifi Flowers said...

WOW a year aboard... that sounds like an amazing adventure... I'm sure it would be hard too... but what an opportunity! ENJOY!

Joyce said...

Yahoo... a year under your belt! In time the "not so good" days will be a blink of an eye and a faint memory. I hope you have few and few of those days. Much xooxo

Anonymous said...

your door pics are fabulous...I would so love the opportunity to go somewhere new for a year or two- but I'd have to know when I'm returning

Bobbi said...

Just think of all the memories you're making there!

And don't forget to pick up a Pocket Edward when you're in the states! Think of all the cool places you can take him!

Expats Again said...

I am enjoying your blog and your experience in Germany. A new transplant myself in Bavaria (4 months now), I can totally relate to all you are going through. Having been an expat in China previous to this move, I know I will survive and grow, but there's no place like home, is there? As we embark on this new adventure, making the most of it will surely reap great rewards.

Julie said...

Hi,

I found your blog when I googled "what to do on a Sunday in Bremen." =) I am a student from the US who just arrived in Bremen two weeks ago and I will be here for a year (with no trips home =/). It has taken a lot of adjusting to get used to all the new rules and customs but so far it has been managable. I'm still having a lot of trouble speaking with people but my listening comprehension has improved a bit.

I had been in a smaller town called Marburg for six weeks prior to my arrival in Bremen. I was taking a language course there and by the end of the 6 weeks I felt like I knew Marburg very well.

Bremen is much bigger and it'll take me a while longer before I feel like I know this place like the back of my hand.

I'm glad I came upon your blog. It makes me feel better to know there are others who are going through/went through these adaptations that I have to go through now successfully.

I hate that everything is closed on Sundays. If you have any tips on fun activities to do on Sunday, please let me know! Much appreciated.