I get so nostalgic about the fall season in Berlin. It’s my favorite season in general but I really enjoy the season here. When I think about that first fall in my apartment, I remember waking up and putting on my sweatshirt so I could make a coffee. I think about the chilly mornings outside with Russell and the soups I made at home. During fall, I always watch my favorite seasonal movies or episodes of shows. Maybe I’ll post the list at some point.
The fall of 2023 is really special to me when I look back at it in hindsight. I was finally feeling better and felt settled in my space. I was making new friends and exploring different parts of the city. I established a good workout routine, I went across the city to go to my office and I celebrated Halloween and Thanksgiving with expat friends. The summer was brutal both weather wise and for my general state of existence. When the temperatures cooled off, life didn’t feel as heavy as it did months prior. I went to yoga after work and made dinners by myself. I lit candles and took long showers. I went for solo walks on the weekends.
One night, I met a friend for Korean food. It was a nice night because it was one of the first times we had been open with each other. We spent the rest of the night walking through the festival of lights and drinking hot chocolate. I guess I associate this time with what it felt like to get my footing again. I started to view my apartment as a safe haven for Russ and I. I celebrated a full, intense year of living in Germany and was looking forward to many more. I genuinely enjoyed Berlin and felt like I was finding myself again.
Two years later, I feel just the same. I get excited pulling out my coats and sweaters. I try to stay outside longer and look at the changing leaves. I’ve already had many teas and soups. I bought a new candle and hopefully soon, I’ll get a new chair for the apartment to make it even cozier.
I just wish my brother was here for this season, too. We had such a nice fall season when we lived together in California.