Germany Update

Hello all. Sorry for the lack of updates, but Berlin was crazy busy all the time. Did anyone see the Germany vs. Argentina game? Because I was in Berlin and saw it there, haha it was awesome. And then Brazil lost, so I dunno what's going to happen now. We've been to a lot of Holocaust museums and such, and Berlin was awesome, but I must say I'm very glad to be back in Kulmbach. We went to Altstadtfest (more German "culture", about 6 mugs to be exact) and I guess it's still going on so we're going again tonight. Max (host brother) is amazing, the other American kids are seriously missing out, but what can you do. This coming weekend my family is taking me to Munich to see the alps and Austria too. Needless to say I'm excited.

Germany is just so amazing overall. The culture is so laid back, and all everyone cares about is having a good time. A lot of German kids ask me questions about american culture and "why does everyone have these hot pockets for dinner instead of eating together as a family?" or "why do all american teenagers freak out so much about what other people think?", and quite honestly they are very valid questions. Everyone here just shook my hand and started talking to me, which at first was a little unnerving since that never happens in america, but it's actually quite nice. People don't fret about everything like they do in the US; there's not this constant need to put pressure on people. I know I personally needed this somewhat forced relaxation, but I had no idea my life was that stressful. At this point I realize I should stop rambling, because it's not really going anywhere haha.

Most of all, though, I just wanted to touch base with everyone back in the states. If you want me to email you, leave your email in a comment or email me, and i'll be sure to write you back.

Sorry, one last thought:

At the world cup game on friday, the announcer said "Es ist kein Traum; Es ist die Wahrheit," which in English means "It's no dream; it's reality." That's what Germany means to me right now. I feel like this should be some dream, it's so amazing, and the perfect balance of everything I love. At the risk of sounding too queer and sentimental, I can say that I've never been more satisfied with my life for as long as I can remember. words in any language can't describe how awesome it is here, but it doesn't change the fact that I'm literally having the time of my life right now. I miss everyone of course, but if I ever had to choose where to be away from home for a whole month, I'd have to say Germany is number 1 on my list.

Now i'm done, haha. Talk to you all later.