Well, it’s my birthday. I love birthdays. Germans love birthdays. So far, it’s been great!

Things I’m learnging about German birthday celebrations:
Everyone hugs you. Which is odd because every other day they are so impersonal. Literally, someone walked across the cafeteria to give me a hug. I’ve started going in for a hug right after someone asks if it’s my birthday because I am expecting it now. And then everyone sees you hugging, which leads to more hugs.

However, don’t be deceived by all the hugging because you are expected to bring your own cake or food for your birthday celebration. I can see this as a positive because you’ll never be disappointed by a cake you don’t like!

…

The Polterabend last night was so much fun. It was in the town of Essenheim, where there were sweeping views of the countryside. The weather was perfect, plates were smashed, there was even a band! And I ate a lot of cheese and cold hot dogs.

Me and the happy bride-to-be