Two Years
Two Years - Zwei Jahre
Today marks two years for three out of four of us in Zürich. Stephan arrived 6 weeks before us. I still can remember that long, emotional day of flights. We were exhausted, anxious and excited all in the same breath. It was an adventure that we knew was a privilege but at the same time filled with uncertainty.
Talking with friends, just yesterday, I was reminded that it takes two years to adjust to a new situation. In the midst of this transition, the pandemic hit. So the normal two year mark, is a bit distorted. But here we are, two years in....
Klara graduated from high school and launched. She is settled in Vienna, fully vaccinated and filled with friends and activities. Klara returned to us for part of the pandemic as Vienna was in 24/7 lockdown. I know it was rough on her to return, but I will always cherish those few extra months with her. She is doing well in the language program at the University. As the summer arrives, she will continue with her program this summer (other than vacation).
Miriam just completed 16 exams (IGSEs). It turns out Early College, EC2, or 10th grade is the toughest year in this system. It is the 11th grade of the US. After this year, she will narrow her schooling to her interests. For Miriam, that means for the next two years she will only have classes on Math, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. (Yeah, her favorite day of the week is Wednesday because that is Math, Biology, and Physic Day!) After two days of sleep after the last exam, she returned to school. Now they just focus on learning a bit of the style of next year. So lots of experiments, which has gotten her out of bed and off in a hurry, because the experiments sound awesome. It is odd to me to think that she is completing her last economics, history or even english assignments these next two weeks. Clearly, a system that works well for her, but one that would have been a challenge for me. I could not have focused my interests down by 15 years old. As for German, she will spend a month with Klara in Vienna and take German immersion.
Stephan is doing well. Scheduled his vaccine shot number 2. Enjoying his morning bike ride along the lake. And looking forward to the office in the near future (hopefully).
As for me, looking back on these two years, even in the midst of a pandemic, I think we did the best we could. The new apartment and area, has helped. I struggle with language, but keep fighting. I too, will begin a German immersion program this summer. I tend to do better in those settings.
My work with Zharity has been the main way I have found my place here. I haven't written about this work - because I think it deserves it's own blog post. Hmmm - ok, next week..
However, one year ago I took the roll of board president on for a little nonprofit here in town. It feels good to use my professional skillset and help develop an incredible program with amazing people. There is such a need for that bridge for internationals to have an avenue to connect with local programs, do good in the greater community and feel like part of something bigger. This nonprofit has made me feel just that and more. And I have found my people.
I am fortunate in that I have met many people here and have made strong connections. I have thrown myself into different groups and circles and like everywhere some places you fit and some you don't. However, in each place, I have met interesting and lovely people. Even the first week we moved here, I met an amazing person that was moving away and passed on some items. I remember sitting in her house having a cup of tea - after knowing her for 10 minutes, feeling like we were friends for years. To this day, we still stay in touch.
So two years later we keep moving forward, working on making our place and trying to do good. Missing our people in the US and grateful to all those here that have accepted us into their lives.
