One Week In: "I Love it Here"

The fact that you can feel "this close" to someone 4,000 miles away is pretty amazing – thanks to modern technology. The only downside (other than the 4,000 miles) is that you can keep tabs on up-to-the-minute news events – both good and bad – in that corner of the map.

This week saw major snowstorms and avalanches in Germany. But just like weather in the USA, some areas get it while others are spared. Still, we had to check to be sure the boy was safe!

This is picture of someone's tabletop snowman in Heidelberg. Yup, they were definitely spared the brunt of it. Not that Carter wouldn't know what to do in snow! He did pack a coat and boots of sorts.

Still, I took any excuse to connect with him and tonight – well night time his time, but afternoon here – he called us through the WhatsApp application. I put him on speaker so hubby and I could listen and talk with him together.

After a hectic start in the new country last Sunday, it's all good now. He's definitely figuring things out and has been really busy. He said it feels more like he's been gone three weeks already. Not just one. A lot to adjust to with times, languages, shopping, eating, etc. But in a nutshell: "I love it here!"

I just loved hearing his voice!

Eventually, he'll share some more pictures but their language program does have a Facebook page and they shared some images from the first week and this post (translated) with them:

The first week of 2019 is coming to an end. The Collegium Palatine was allowed to welcome many new and already known faces. The culture and leisure programme also started in the new year with a tour of the Heidelberg Castle and a bowling tournament. We are looking forward to more adventures with you!

This is the group at Heidelberg Castle. Carter is in middle in bright shirt behind guy kneeling.

And no. Your eyes don't deceive you. We sent our son halfway across the globe to go bowling! They went Friday night and he proudly reported he was the only one to break 100. Way to represent! He's second on in from far right. Weird that there is a spotlight on his face. I honestly didn't Photoshop this in any way!

He said that each week they'll have optional activities he can sign up for. We encouraged him to do as many as he can if it doesn't interfere with school work. Plus, they aren't "allowed" to speak anything but German in class, so it's nice to have social time to speak English. And apparently those Austin dimples are an international language of charm. But we don't need to go into that.

I got to hear his voice and get my virtual hug, so momma's all good. For now.