It is natural to imagine that Year Two of living in a foreign country is much better than Year One. Well, we have no surprises to report. In hindsight, it is really quite remarkable that Hamburg now feels like “home” to us. We can honestly say that we have made a life here, complete with friends and a weekly routine that we can call our own. However, that does not mean that we still do not bump into cultural nuances that either make our blood boil, or proudly proclaim “I am bringing this tradition back to the U.S. with me!” Ultimately, 2002 was the year which allowed us to really become Europeans, or dare we even say. . . Germans! So, let’s move on to the frequently asked questions many have been asking of us…

• Your first two years are up. Are you staying? The short answer to that question is “Yes!” In November, Jim accepted a new job, which has committed us for another two years in Hamburg. Plus, neither of us were ready to be packing our bags just yet – there is still too much of Europe to see, and our German is just getting passable.
• Speaking of German, how is your German? In all honesty, it is getting a lot better. Kirsten refuses to admit she speaks it decently, but always seems to manage just fine when required. Our level of understanding is far better – Jim claims to understand about 75% of the content of all conversations; Kirsten, 50%. Speaking is about half that percentage. And the best part? Our English is getting worse!!! Very funny we think that is. (Ahem)
• Where in Europe did you guys go in 2002? Ahhh, great question. It was another banner year for travelling. Early in the year, we went skiing in the Austrian Alps and hiked along the Italian coast. In summer, we ventured back into Norway for some Fjord hiking and our first journey above the Arctic circle. We also spent some very enjoyable weeks back in the good 'ol US of A at some friends' weddings (see Weddings and Babies 2002), and indulged in a driving tour of Bavaria in autumn, complete with an Oktoberfest stein! For the complete scoop, make sure to visit the Photo Album.
• What was your highlight of 2002? Believe it or not, perhaps our biggest highlight this year took place in. . .Florida? For details, you’ll just have to see it for yourself by clicking here.

Yes, we managed to keep busy this past year. Kirsten has plunged headfirst into the world of multi-media, by honing her photography skills, enrolling in an online university for graphic design and web design, reviewing upcoming movie releases in Germany and designing a new English language songbook for our parish here in Hamburg. While doing all this, she also managed to achieve her Competent Toastmaster (CTM) accreditation by completing her 10th speech in our Toastmasters club. Jim, in addition to work, has also nearly completed his Toastmasters CTM (only 2 speeches to go) and has also taken on the Secretary role in the club (but he doesn’t get coffee or do dry cleaning). And after some begging, Jim wrote a “guest review” for the American Women’s Club movie review team! To read the budding Siskel’s review, click here!

The year ended on a relaxing note, with the Browns and Aunt Jane visiting us for the holidays. It provided a good opportunity for us to reflect on the blessings we have been given over our past two years here. Despite the fact that we have become fairly well-adjusted “Germans”, we still miss our friends and family across the Atlantic, and look forward to the day when we can see all of you again – in Hamburg, Chicago, or wherever you may be!

Wir hoffen das euch werden ein super 2003 haben!!!

Love & Peace, Jim & Kirsten