We set out on this journey, not knowing what we were getting into but excited for what was to come. It feels like just a couple of months ago that we were boarding the plane destined for Europe, then getting lost in the neighborhoods, trying to find our way around. Walking through the park and visiting Altstadt for the first time. Sipping our first Altbier, delighting in our first German pretzel, and soaking in our new life.
We were told we would mature in a unique way during our time abroad, first by growing closer together and second, by learning more than we ever expected, and it’s accurate to say that happened. Many of our outlooks have changed, and our horizons have broadened. We are so thankful for all that we’ve seen, learned, and experienced.
We have learned some silly things like never walk on the red brick and if you do, expect to hear a bicycle bell and possibly a few stern words from the bikers (the same goes for if you cross the street when the light is red) and always carry cash. To more serious lessons, like the value of learning multiple languages and experiencing different cultures. We’ve had countless lessons in humility and have learned the art of embarrassment. We’ve learned how kind people can be, even if they seem very “German” during your first meeting (ex. The post lady). We’ve learned to rely on each other and our friendship and humor, especially when we made mistakes or were thrust into unwanted scenarios *cough – covid – cough*
We’ve been asked how it feels to leave, and truthfully, it’s hard to say. Given the current situation, continued lockdown (going on month 6…), and inability to travel, it makes it “easier” to say goodbye, but it’s still difficult not to grieve our European life and the adventures that we “could have had” if things would have been different. At this point, we both say we're more sad than excited, but we know the next adventure is right around the corner, and we are excited to see what's in store.
There are so many things we will miss… The ability to walk, tram, or train anywhere we want to go. Our adorable little flat in the middle of the city. Our walks around the Hofgarten and down by the Rhine and the swooping parakeets at sunset. Our favorite restaurants and coffee shops, including our weekend ramen and boba tea, xoxo bowls, sushi, and Schnitzel. All of the adorable little towns and picturesque city squares. Our lazy Sundays and time spent together, and of course the ease of travel and the opportunity to go anywhere we wish.
We’ll miss the friends we’ve made but are already planning future trips to visit everyone! It’s been neat meeting people from all around the world, and we hope to continue to develop more friendships like these.
On the flip side, there are many things we are looking forward to as we pack up our bags and head back to the U.S. A clothes dryer, for example… that will be a luxury! The ability to communicate with others, ask simple questions, understand what number to push on a phone call, and know what we’re ordering off a menu. Not having to translate our mail and other random documents. Being in the same time zone again as our family and friends (no more late-night text sessions with others who are just waking up!), and being able to watch sports live and not waking up to the scores the following day.
There are always two sides to a situation and pros and cons for both, but ultimately, we are just beyond grateful for the opportunity we have had. We set out two and half years ago, ready for an adventure, and that’s exactly what we got! Prost to the next one!
Vielen Dank Deutschland! Auf Wiedersehen!
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