summer is going really well. i'm officially over the hump, it's all down hill from here and it's definitely seeming as if my time is much shorter than it really is. it's almost august, and i'm going to texas on august 16th, and then it will really feel as if my summer is over. i picked up another job to try to save more money, but the BIG news is that

are you ready? ...

drumroll ...



I HAVE AN APARTMENT. it's in charlottenberg, it's got internet, tv, telephone, washer/dryer, full bath, balcony, for 300 euros a month. i have one roommate, she seems perfect for me. also, my room is furnished with a matress, closet, desk and shelf. now i CANT WAIT to go because my #1 stressor is gone and I WON'T BE HOMELESS!!! i can't wait to be in the city in my room starting everything!!!!! it makes saving money so much easier, because i have an end in sight and it's so amazing!!!!

more posts to come when i start shopping for berlin things.

i just sent an email to a woman named barbara klein, who was in charge of a youth exchange program that i took part in in high school. she is one of the nicest women i have ever met, with a beautiful house in frankfurt. i emailed to thank her, and ask if she still had a record of my host sister's email address. i only have their home phone number, which i have not called in two years.


i had a dream a few nights ago about packing for berlin and forgetting to pack any winter clothing. how symbolic. my savings are creeping toward enough. i feel sheepish about emailing the girl who i may or may not be staying with when i land in berlin. i'll work up the nerve sometime this month.