February: The Short Month

My fellow Americans,

Ahh February. What a funny little month. Yet, despite being a mere 28 days and its seemingly arbitrarey placement between Janruary and March that constantly reminds us that, yes, it is still winter, but if you hold out a little longer, I promise it will be spring once again; February can still be a good little month.

1. I joined a gym here and have begun working out on a regualr basis. As of yet im no Scharwzenager but i still got some time. Stayed tuned.

2. My german is really coming. Now, before i continue let me share a little secret with you when it comes to learning a new language. Key word: Encouragment. Any encouragement, praise, or compliments on ones attempts to speak a foreign tongue are worth their weight in gold.
Example: I received a ride home from some of my host brothers friends last Friday. Talking with the gentlemen who occupied the front seat, he posed the question "so, how long have you been in Germany. Me: umm just over 5 months. Gentlemen in front seat: Really?? i would have thought a lot longer. You speak really good German. I could have kissed him right then and there. But restraining myself i waited and did a little victory dance as soon as they dropped me off.

3. Ive been reading alot. Today i will finsh, Childhood, Boyhood, Youth by Leo Tolstoy. Amazing book.

4. This week i was struck with this thought during one of my classes. This was not the first time i attemted to wrap my mind around this idea but it was the first time it had hit me so randomly and suddenly. Sitting in the back of class i realized that i was the only one in this room who was thinking in english and that no one else was struggling to grasp the geographical terms the teacher was currently explaining. There is no doubt in my mind that language is one of he strangest and most fascinating things that the Good Lord created.

5. My Brother and Mom come in less than 3 weeks. Cant describe my excitement.

6. I still love my host family and we get along great. But being the only male in the house i have to keep the manliness in check...well thank God for Philipp or i fear i would be overwhelmed by the Estrogen. So, i have to make use of the opportunites i have. Example: my host mom is gone this weekend and my host sister is out a friends out. So, of course as soon as my host sister left, i stripped down to my boxers, took off my shirt. life is good.

Anyways, life continues to progress forward. I am truly enjoying germany and all the amazing experiences that it represents. But i must admit that i am growing tired of being the"exchnage student" and am ready for this summer and then SPU next fall.

Love you all.

Tyler