And so school begins... (again)

Before i discuss my my first day back at school let me first recap the weekend.

At the grand hour of 4:00 AM on SaturdayI was greeted by the wonderful sound of alarm. Now i know what you are thinking, why would anyone get up at this ungodly hour? The answer is quit simple. Despite the fact that the German train system is supurb, it does not always fit your own personal agenda. So, in order to be in Hannover at 8:00 Luis and I had to depart Hann Muenden at 4:40. Arriving in Hannover we were greeted by pouring rain, cold weather and about 20 other exchange students. Now here are two observations when a group of exchange students get together. 1. For some reason every seems to speak 3 times louder than needed. 2. we stick out like sore thumbs and are about as un-German as one can get. On the train ride to Hamburg I met an exchange student from Australia that has been here since Januray 12th. We had a great conversation and it was very encouraging to talk to someone who is almost finshed with their exchange. Its amazing how quickly you can connect with people.

We finally arrived in Hamburg and once again were greeted by rain and freezing temperatures. Despite mother natures best attempts this did not stop us from completing a tour of the city on foot. (See picture of me with the strange look on my face) Hamburg is a very posh city and has a huge shipping industry. After completing the city tour, we boarded a boat and did a boat tour of the River Elbe and saw where they load the huge ocean freighters with goods. After that some free time and then we headed back "home" I arrived back in Hann. Muenden at 12:30. To say the least I was exhausted.

I woke up around noon on Sunday and did absolutly nothing. Thats one thing that I do love about Germany or more specificaly my family. On Sundays we usually have a big brunch around noon and then we just hang out. I love it.

But unfortunately a wonderful weekend had to come to a close. I woke up monday morning and went to back to school. Well nothing much has changed. I still understand very little, I have superfical 30 second conversations with a few people, I look up german words, think about home and then realize that I still have 3 periods left. Oh well.

6 weeks till Christmas, that is all I am focused on. But nonetheless each day is so bitter sweet. I know when this experience is over I will be so thankful that I did it. I have already learned so much. But each day I miss my family and friends so much its almost unberable. I have the best family and freinds anyone could ask for and I am blessed beyond words. I tell myself everyday to be content and be thankful for a that have here in Germany because I have so much to be thankful for.

I miss you all so much.

Much Love,

Tyler