Bon Jovi understands

I booked an 8-week course, and I'm just past the half-way mark. I've already learnt more here than I expected; not just German, but about myself.

My first couple of weeks were a bit confused, but I knew they would be: I was changing my life pretty drastically. Then I started to wonder if I was too late to learn; I seemed to have a lot of trouble in class. At the same time, I felt like the outsider at home. I wouldn't say there were problems, but I didn't find myself "clicking" with anyone.

Part of it boils down to simply being in a different situation than the other students. Most people in this school are here on a break from University, and they're here on their parents' dime.

A few weeks later and I'm feeling much more comfortable with the people and the situation, not to mention the language.

Where will I be living in two months' time? I can't really say at this stage, but it'll be wherever the work is. As much as I'd love to dedicate the year to studenty life, my savings only last so long before they need a top-up...

Mixed messages

The famous gap between "he says" and "she says" has opened again. Actually he's not saying much (and I'm not asking) but from what she's said and what I've seen, he thinks it's the beginning of a wonderful courtship. She's just got a fresh start in a new country and doesn't want to get into any relationship right now. As some readers will know, that's a position I can completely understand.

It seems like they need to talk out their differences, but there's going to be a delay. Until then, I guess she'll keep putting her hands in her pockets to avoid holding his. Poor folks. Mediterranean people are famously emotional so I really hope that things work out nicely.—