I don't think I ever want to leave Europe... You may think that is a crazy thing to say, coming from a 35 year old woman who has lived in the USA all of her life and thought it was the greatest country ever. Being able to see a new place, really made me change my mind. The world is the greatest place ever. Ive only been here exactly 1 month today and I feel like ive know this place forever. Its like home. Most people in my shoes may never get to experience another country, or even have it on their "bucket list" If you have a bucket list, I suggest you put Europe on it. The things you once knew, what felt normal, will change. I use to be a very materialistic person, I believe that our minds can change with a blink of an eye...I no longer yearn for clothes, shoes, and things....I desire to see things, go places and enjoy life. Germany has changed the way I have come to see the world. Things that this country has taught me so far:
Care about the planet.
desire more out of life.
Family is number 1.
work hard to play harder.
Relax.
Enjoy.
Smile.
Laugh.
Live.
Love.
These are things I have been missing. When you work too much and live a life of working hard just to live you begin to loose sight of what is important. I truly believe the world should take notes from each other. Their are several things in the USA that are very unacceptable here. Recycling is very important here, so important its required. Their work weeks are around 30 to 35 hours tops. Monday thru Friday from 12pm to 2pm everyone closes for quiet hours to eat lunch and be with family etc. Everything shuts down and closes on Sundays and holidays. Its CLEAN here. They eat less here but have the best tasting food, it is pure food, no preservatives. Its acceptable to go to the market, bakery and store everyday because they believe FRESH is better, healthier and required.
The are healthy here, and you notice everyone maintains a decent weight. I have yet to see someone so large that they cant walk. They plan their meals differently. In the morning, Germans eat a light breakfast, then the main meal of the day is lunch. Then around 3/4 is coffee, tea, and dessert, in the evening a very early light meal. When I first got here and still, Iam in awe with the food and may have gained a few extra pounds lol, but That will change, if iam going to live here I want to experience their culture, live their ways and follow their laws.
I will say that Germans are very spontaneous in their driving lol. They will pull out in front of you and cut you off, but they can be courteous and helpful as well. They enjoy it when you try to speak to them in their language. The English speaking Germans are eager to put their English to good use when talking to you. They may look at you like a total alien and stare to check you out, but Iam sure they get the same feeling from me. Especially when I take pictures of everything lol!
I have met a great friend so far and we have been having some day trip adventures. We went to the city of Saarbrucken and experienced store fronts, galleries, and German shopping at its best. They don't have the normal American stores, but they have similar things to purchase and stores to shop in. I pretty much have no use for American dollars here and my wallet is full of Euros.
To put a close on this, I must say, I was scared to come here, but now its more like home then any other place in the world I have been. I belong here. I wouldn't be surprised if I decide to stay for good.
