WE'VE LIVED IN GERMANY FOR TWO YEARS! (Americans share their honest thoughts about life in Germany)

We have lived in Germany for almost 730 days people!!! (aka two years, but putting it in days just sounds cooler). In today’s video we are going to give you guys our honest opinion about Germany! We will share with you the things we love about living here, the things we don't love so much, and answer some of YOUR QUESTIONS you sent us! :)
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Lots of love,
Tanner, Risa + Willa

[@stampcollector74]

As a German I have to say: Nice to welcome you here. Nice family! ♥

[@tarik4435]

Greetings from Turkey. I find peace when I watch your videos. You are a wonderful family. I wish you happiness.

[@OurStorytoTell]

That is very kind of you Tarik! Thanks for watching! 💗

[@heha6984]

Alles alles Gute für Euch 3 und bald für Euch 4! 🥰😘😀🍀

[@OurStorytoTell]

Dankeschön!

[@peterjaro6804]

Thank you for sharing this... This was even more personal than your other video's, and it really feels like we KZbinr's know you. I undestand that it can be unsettling when people come up to you and embrace you like long lost friends, but you have to understand: we see you on a weekly basis, often more than we see our own relatives, so we just get so excited to finally see you 'in the flesh' so to speak. WE LOVE ALL 3 OF YOU... no sorry, ALL 4 OF YOU!!!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for sharing your perspective! It’s good to hear it from the other side and it makes sense. We would definitely say hi to the people in some of our favorite KZbin channels as well 😊 but it still feels a bit weird at times. We love the community though! Thanks for the sweet comment 💛hope you enjoy the rest of your weekend and the beginning of the week!

[@maryanngibbs6963]

I am with you on this perspective. I get so excited to see whats new with some of my favorite youtubers because I watch them so frequently I feel like I get to know them with time so them sharing things with their viewers feels like a friend sharing their life.

[@anastasiast2500]

That‘s the beauty of europe everything is close by and you can travell so much i love it ✨

[@OurStorytoTell]

It is one of our favorite things about it!

[@robertzander9723]

You are just a wonderful family, very nice for us viewers that you have decided to share your travels, your experiences and adventures that you film for yourselves with us and that we can get a little insight into your life. Thank you very much, I hope to see many more exciting videos from you. It's really nice to hear that Willa is having so much fun in her daycare, I would have been surprised your little darling wouldn't make any friends, something we can learn from our children, they just don't think too much about it beforehand and what isn't possible, they come together and then it works, the main thing is that they can play and have fun together.

[@OurStorytoTell]

It’s been an incredible experience for us as well! We’ve grown a lot since we first moved here and we will forever remember our time here whenever we have to move away (sad to think about). Seeing Willa make friends, learn what German she has, etc has been exciting and we hope she can make the most of her time at Kita. That will be one of the hardest things to say goodbye to cause she loves it!

[@ursularieger5092]

I enjoyed this summary very much - since you moved to Germany I first saw your you Tube Chanel and I am following your German/ European experiences. Good luck for giving birth to your daughter in Germany ! Alles Gute und viel Glück für euch!!!

[@jjivy6310]

Oh I know y'all are excited for baby girl #2 to get here! Love following along your adventures! Bless you for sharing ❤️

[@OurStorytoTell]

Sooo excited!!! :) THANK YOU for watching!

[@nadinebeck2069]

Wishing you all the best, a smooth birth and a lot of joy and support for the first months 💕

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you so much! 💗 Baby hasn’t come yet but hopefully this week 🤞🤞

[@ann-kathringlover5295]

I met my husband in Stuttgart, Germany and moved from Germany to WA in December of 2020. And i felt quite at home in WA with the rain and not seeing the sun a lot and no AC. :D Miss my Germany but also appreciate the chance to experience living in a foreign country. I am sure you can relate :)

[@elkereinhardt3494]

Nice video!! Thank you! I wish you all the best ❤

[@jan-arwedrichter4558]

Glad to hear you're heading north this year! I'm so curious about what you're gonna say. If you want a nice boat experience we can recommend the Finnlines ferry from Travemuende(GER) to Malmoe(SWE). We made the trip in Summer '21. Ships are not the newest, but we had a super clean+comfy cabin and everything was absolutely okay. Anyway, have a great year with tons of new stories to tell!

[@dairuna]

Good morning! It was nice to hear all of this in a sit-down video, thank you so much for it! You really are making the most of your stay here. 🥰 About the petrol station situation with children - we just leave our kids in the car. Nothing will happen to them - the shop where you can pay usually has a big glass pane fitted, so you can constantly look out and check. If you feel unsure, just lock the doors. 🤗 By the way, I think it's amazing that you feel everything is really close and you just up and leave to another country! We live close by the Dutch and Belgian border, it's only a few km, so we go there occasionally - but we would never consider the rest of Europe to be close-by. That just shows how much bigger the distances are in the states. 😅 Now, I forgot the most important thing - I hope you will have (or have had already?) a really good birthing experience and everyone is happy and healthy! 💖💖💖💖

[@OurStorytoTell]

I guess it’s cause we are a bit nervous about leaving her in there alone. We had an incident one time where she was locked in the car while she was in the car seat and the keys were inside the car. It was pretty scary cause it was a warmer day, but thankfully the police were able to help us get the doors open fairly quick. Since then we have always made it a habit to take her inside with us when getting petrol. It’s true, we really think Europe is so close together. In fact, today we were realizing that from Miami to New Orleans was a 12 hour drive, when we were thinking it would be approximately half of that 😆. 12 hours from us here in Germany would take you deep into Croatia, or to Rome, so we definitely consider most of Europe close! Thanks for the best wishes 💛. We are still patiently waiting for baby girl to join us! It means a lot that you’re thinking of us. Hope you are doing well and can have been enjoying the longer days like we are!

[@dairuna]

@@OurStorytoTell Well, that is terribly scary, I can totally understand you being nervous about leaving her in the car after that! I hope you can find a solution that works for you and isn't stressful 🙏 Thank you for taking the time to write such a long answer, despite all the excitement going on right now. Stay happy and healthy, I'll be thinking about you all in the next few days! 💖

[@radicalnomad1]

In many parts of the United States of America, people are encouraged to call the police if a child is in the car alone, no matter if they are in there for only 30 seconds with the windows open and a cool breeze blowing. I have a friend who was dragged out of the car by 3 or 4 policemen who were shouting at her because she left her 2 children in the car with the windows open for 2 or 3 minutes.

[@mariaz.-k.3546]

@@OurStorytoTell leave the child in the car, not the Key😁

[@tydanum]

Very interesting, I am English but have spent many holidays in US over the years visiting all 50 States, also we have many German friends, so we visit often. Love your videos 🇬🇧

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for the comment 😊. We hope to make it back to the UK in the future. Much more to see and experience there!

[@cs3473]

Congratulations on being in Germany for two years! I think it is great that you have been able to take advantage of going and seeing the surrounding countries, and watching how much Willa has grown since I first started following your videos! Congratulations on the impending Birth of you Daughter! (As some who celebrated his own Birthday yesterday, Pisces Rock!)

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you! We love Germany and all the memories we’ve made while being here. It’s hard to believe she has grown so fast over these two years! Thanks for the kind comment. 💛 we’re still waiting patiently for the little one to show up, but we’re soaking in the final days with just Willa and us. Happy belated birthday!

[@cs3473]

@@OurStorytoTell Thank You!!! :)

[@syncacct8576]

I am from Finland and I never go inside to pay for the fuel. Typically I just pay with an app or with a card at the pump. My biggest gripe with Germany and some other central European countries are the opening hours. My corner store is open 24/7, so I never need to think about it.

[@maryanngibbs6963]

Cant wait to see the next video to see your baby girl. Hope all goes well with delivery if you haven't already had her. Maybe someday you can move back to Germany with a new job position offer or something. I love Germany so much I really want to make it my home someday. I miss it dearly its been 5.5 years since I was there. It has been lovely joining you on all your adventures and watching little willa grow and will be lovely to watch the new little one grow as well.

[@annabelv.2400]

This was a very interresting recap, thank you so much for it! The depressing weather between January and March, I can totally relate to being from Belgium, it really feels like we all hibernate in those months!

[@arnodobler1096]

For me, for years November and December were worse and from January on (days are getting longer again) it went uphill for me, but this year it's like yours - weird.

[@OurStorytoTell]

The longer days in the end of January and February have been nice! Here’s to longer and warmer days to come 😊

[@nourishedbyscience]

Wow, that was clearly a very gutsy decision by you guys to move to Germany without speaking any German! And to a pretty rural area as well!? As a German who has lived in Seattle, WA, for 18 years, I'd say that one big difference between the US and Germany is that Germans tend to be less friendly and open on first (and second, and third) contact. We recently moved back to Germany to be closer to family, and even I struggle with that aspect of German culture. I can't even imagine how hard that must have been for you guys, given that you don't speak German fluently. If you have felt any of that, but were to kind to mention it in the video, let me reassure you that people here are as friendly and nice as your average American; it just takes a lot longer to become friendly and close with people here (that's been our experience, at least). As a German who has lived in the US for many years, I love watching your videos (yours are, in a way, the inverse of our experiences). You guys are fun, kind, and considerate. Thanks for giving us a glimpse into your everyday life and your adventures. Cheers Mario

[@OurStorytoTell]

Hi Mario! What a kind comment. Thank you! It’s fun to hear about your experience. We actually lived in Auburn, Washington for a little bit where we traveled to Seattle multiple times. We really enjoyed it! We definitely noticed that Germans were more standoffish, but we’ve been able to make some of our best friends here in Germany now. We can agree with your statement! 😊

[@christinanuesgen6205]

So süß diese Familie!!! Tolle Videos!!

[@annaeylert9983]

Hey guys. Hope, you are doing fine. All the best for the birth of your little son. Hope, it will be smooth for you. Fingers crossed! Cannot wait for your next video! But take your time, welcoming the new family member. Sending love and prayers to you! Love! ❤️

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you so much! We are very happy to announce that our daughter has been born! We will be back in April to share more! 🥰

[@koolmo]

Husband and fater of 2 daugthers from South Korea. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. We are thinking of moving to Germany and your family video and narratives really help me develop the idea of relocation. Gracias!

[@memories511]

Thank you for sharing your experience in Europe. I for one enjoy them and especially the food. A lot has changed as far as the food, now there is more of a variety then there used to be. When I was in Germany, the only new thing was Schaschlick ! So now I am dating myself LOLOL. But I am amazed at all the different food. Thanks again and wishing you the best with the new little person.

[@berndgaal7689]

I am very glad you are enjoying Germany. You have passed the two year mark as they say the first 2 yrs are the most critical yrs when living in a foreign country. I was told that and it turned out to be true when I lived in Canada and later in Japan. In your case things are a bit easier since you came here as a family. I wish you will stay here and once you improve your language everything will be even better.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks so much Bernd for watching and the comment! It’s fun to hear about where you’ve lived! We can imagine it would be a totally different experience without family!

[@lestion7]

We really have enjoyed your videos. I think it’s great you guys only concern yourselves with it’s “Our story to tell”. That’s how it should be so kudos. The restaurant In Buching, “Alpstuben Buching” truly is a fantastic place! We stay in Füssen for a month every year are are looking to do more once we can with work. If you haven’t tried it, next time you’re at Alpstuben Buching give an ABK Weißbier a try. One of the best I’ve ever had. Keep it up you four! Your videos are really fun and tug at our heartstrings as we miss Germany, especially Bavaria, every minute we aren’t there.

[@geeemm135]

very interesting recap. i dont have much to comment or judge on this. i think you guys are on the right track of being the best "you" that you can be. i'm curious what your next adventures might bring :)

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for the comment 💛 it’s been fulfilling to be at the point where we are now, especially since there have been times when we are trying to figure out what we want out of life. But of course, finding out life’s purpose is ever changing, right?

[@drau331]

My own life-story started nearly as Willa's. I had to move a lot of times caused by my fathers job. And it had negative aspects on me. Good friends were cut away all three or four years, anytime a new school made me become not the best pupil and to graduate later was a little more compliceted than to the situation if I could have stayed at one area /town. So it broke my best line of life into pieces and I had to face the fact I always had to do more than others to equalize this. And of course I was not successfull in all directions. So, maybe and I hope for her, Willa can handle this a bit easier than I could and I wish her all the best for the coming challenge... Risa, especially for you: All the best for the birth!!

[@mariaz.-k.3546]

I feel like you. I do not feel anywhere at Home and i am 57 years old. Others have friends from their Kindergarten...

[@rebeccarendle3706]

You are great guys. ..we have loved following you all. You can buy fridges with ice makers here in Germany 😉. You can buy an air-con for your house 😉. Yes you need to get out there and just speak👍.. i came with zero German.. my work was in English.. but german courses, talking, going to the cinema in Germany etc help and eg what REALLY helped me, was watching German TV.. the picture reinforcement helps you understand the words. REWE is open until 10pm. I think a lot of your issues are because you live in the sticks... and those issues of shops, doctors, restaurant variety etc are the same in any county when you live in the sticks and not in a city or big town.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Aww thanks for your comment and for following along! Yes we agree with you that our location has a lot to do with it! Thanks for the suggestion. :)

[@peterbecker4443]

When it comes to the weather i absolutely have to agree with you. During our roadtrip through the staates we were amazed how good the weather ist. You have to get use of all the good days in germany

[@OurStorytoTell]

It’s so interesting comparing the number of sunny days in the US compared to Germany. Of course there are more and more dangerous storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods that seem to be happening on a weekly basis in the US. We have appreciated the mild winters here in Germany though, even though they are full of lots of gray days!

[@jessicaely2521]

I would take German gray days over the weather we have had in the US this year ( yes I have lived in Germany). Christmas Eve we went from 4 C to -19 C in 8 hours. Yes I converted the temperatures correctly it was 40 F and -2 F in 8 hours. This past Friday we had a huge storm. Winds were 112 kmh. This is a low category 1 hurricane. This doesn't happen in the middle of the US during winter. We also dropped 20 degrees in 12 hours. Seattle actually has 10 more gray days when compared to the average of gray days in Germany. Germany has 111 more sunny day a year than Vermont. Just remember it always could be worse.

[@gwynethglas-brown9171]

Lovely to see you both 💕 Great video yes Great memories for you to share & to treasure with these videos . In the years to come . 2 years already the Time has just flown past so so much 😊 , it lovely to hear how Willa settled in to kia and children learn languages much quicker they adapt also much faster . Risa Tanner & Willa not long now and.your new Daughter/ little sister will be with you very exciting times 😊 All the best with the Birth and the time afterwards . Take care 🥰

[@OurStorytoTell]

It really has flown by! Thank you so much for your support throughout our adventure here!! :)

[@SuperLittleTyke]

What I find most interesting in your videos is the food, watching Willa growing up, and the many trips you have taken within Germany and beyond, where we have seen some of the most beautiful parts of our world. But especially the food! I am a foodie. I love food! And most of the meals you have eaten, both on the street and in restaurants, have looked scrumptious. Sometimes I've tried to replicate some of them, like the Käsespätzle. So finally, hopefully the birth won't be too prolonged and we will soon see the new arrival. Have you a name yet? Take care y'all!

[@OurStorytoTell]

We really love hearing that you enjoy the food videos!! Foodies unite lol! 😋😋 Thanks so much for your support!

[@carmenotto5836]

I still love your videos, right from the beginning up to this point. Thanks a lot for this wonderful review and summary! You seem to have met the "right people" here in Germany as unfortunately there are many here as well that suffer from burn-out etc.. No matter, if you are from the U.S. or from Germany or anywhere else in the world: We all have to do our best to live the life we want to live. You are doing a very good job in this. All the best wishes for your obviously exciting future!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you so much Carmen! This comment means a lot to us!! Hope you have a great week 😊

[@carmenotto5836]

@@OurStorytoTell Oh, thank you? I probably will! My daughter and her friend will visit us from tonight until Friday. They live in Freiburg....so gar away. But we will celebrate our time together. There's nothing better than to spend time with your loved ones.

[@carmenotto5836]

! instead of ? 😅

[@nadinebeck2069]

I often see my co-workers standing in the sun in front of the building, soaking light and enjoying the warmth after dark January and February. I do too 😊

[@OurStorytoTell]

The sun feels so good ☀️ We definitely have noticed Germans flocking outside on a day with sunshine!

[@OldCarger]

Get a seeling fan,that is more efficient then one standing on the floor. We as a german family dont want to miss it. Make sure it suits your room size! We have 3, 2 in the bedroom and 1 in the living room. Get one that lets you switch the rotation, that way you can us it in the winter time too,to distribute the warm air by sucking up the air.

[@OurStorytoTell]

That’s been a thought of ours, but honestly for the short time we really need it, we haven’t asked our landlords if they would install one. But maybe a good idea to ask for this year 🤔

[@karinland8533]

There is no problem locking your kids in the car while you go pay. Why do you feel the need to take them with you? You tell Willa, you say in the car, I will go pay. Dragging sleeping kids into gas station? Absolutely unnecessary

[@OurStorytoTell]

That’s good to know! Honestly we’ve never had to deal with the situation living in the states & we just have felt more comfortable taking them inside with us. It makes sense though & sounds like that’s what everyone is doing here. 😊

[@radicalnomad1]

They do it because in many parts of America, you'll have 10 cops holding you at gunpoint if you leave them in the car with the windows down and a cool breeze blowing for 30 seconds.

[@peterreitmann4496]

Fun! German here living in Sun Valley Idaho, march 8th is my mothers birthday! Wish u guys the best of luck with everthing coming up!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Oooh one day away! Tell her happy birthday from us!! Maybe our little girl will share the same birthday? :) We are still waiting to see!

[@berndhoffmann7703]

great to see you are enjoying your time here! regarding gas statins, at ESSO, ARAL - I guess there are more - one can pay via App directly in your car, next to the pump, if you want, most people still walk in. Unfortunately that does not work with CNG, only with gas and diesel All the best for the upcoming events! regarding shopping - I am fortunate to live in a village of about 2.000 inhabitants which has a convenience shop open 24/7 including Sundays, it has an automatic till, no shop assistant or cashier is there, I hope this will become more widespread

[@OurStorytoTell]

Hey Bernd! That sounds like a great option for you to have a 24/7 store! That would be great for us here! Thanks for the comment and watching!

[@ginster458]

Wait you're due already?! Where'd the time go?? I hope you have a safe and gentle birth, that baby is healthy and well, and that the coming weeks are peaceful and easy for your little family!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Right? The time has flown by for us too. Thanks for the kind comment and wishes! We are still anxiously waiting for when she decided to come 😊

[@eileenbotha2773]

Just found your channel and loving what you share so far! Our little family might be moving to Germany in the new year so content is much appreciated to gain a little more of an idea of "what to expect". We'll be coming from a very tropical and warm country so my heart is a little worried about adjusting to the grey skies and long winters but if this move there is in the Lord's Will then where God leads - we go! Anyway, just wanted to say hi and sending your family love and best wishes on your new baby and next adventures. xx

[@OurStorytoTell]

Ohh we love reading this comment! Thanks for saying hi and know that we wish you the best of luck in your move! Germany has so much to offer! 💛

[@vidiot57]

Luv you guys and watching your German experience is so insightful for me(as an America) to see what it is like through the Lens of a fellow American how you adapt to this unique culture is amazing.. I have visited Germany for a short time(2022).. Wonderful country.. The one thing that I experienced that I did not expect.. Was the reliance on paying for things in cash, versus using a credit or debit card.. Like most of a good part of the world..This surprised me as I always think of modern Germany being very technically advanced .. Anyway cheers guys.. keep doing what your doing.. its a joy to watch..

[@gerryatriesilke]

We love our cash and love to buy things *anonymus* what in your Phone is broken/lost? For some reasons it´t better to spent only the money that you have in yout pocket, for shure no depts ;) I love my cash

[@albin2232]

The cash thing is changing, but you do need to carry cash.

[@luke2future]

After living in Canada for some time, a fridge with an ice maker was the first thing I bought when I moved back to Germany... Regarding AC in private homes this is not a common thing but since some decades summers are getting hotter so at least in my area (Heidelberg) they are not that uncommon anymore. I know many people (including myself) who have installed AC units at least in their bedrooms and living rooms... And before people start complaining about environmental aspects - when it is hot it is usually sunny outside so we use our own solar generated power. And in fall / spring they can be used to efficiently heat those rooms without having to turn on central heating system. They are just heat pumps after all...

[@aureliosilver2507]

Congratulations on your new daughter!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you so much 😀

[@udomann9271]

That was a very privat statement about your experiences in Germany, you are a very symphatic family, your small daughter is sweet.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you for watching & the kind words!! It means a lot 🤍

[@jensvogel6660]

Concerning fuelling the car just visit the BayWa service stations. There should be quite some around in your area with OPTs (automata). And also on AVIA sites.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for the suggestion Jens!

[@manuelcaraig805]

Hi you 3 a very nice recap of your experience sofar as always there are good and not so good times but thats life, can't wait for you to announce the birth of 4 member hope it is soon🥰🥰

[@OurStorytoTell]

Aww thanks! We can't wait for it either!

[@bibliopolist]

About small-town friends: it may seem hard, but there is a way - join any club you might like (church choir, sports club, voluntary firefighters or ambulance, carnival club, whatever). It is the way the social fabric works, and It's really non-optional :-)

[@OurStorytoTell]

We have started going to a gym class with Willa in the community and it has been so fun! 😊

[@toniderdon]

This was a really good video, I hope you plan to stay in Germany for forever!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for watching and the kind words!! We love Germany 💗

[@danilopapais1464]

Tbh, I love the videos with food in it. Everyone needs to eat and a lot of people even enjoy it (maybe not those who just consider it solely as fuel for the body).

[@OurStorytoTell]

Exactly what we think 😊. Thanks!

[@SABRINA.ARMY.BTS.]

Great video as always ! Whenever I’m in Bavaria I have to remember that the grocery stores mostly close at 8 pm or earlier because I live in North Rhine-Westphalia close to the Dutch border and our supermarkets over here are open Monday-Saturday until 10 pm or even until midnight and when we forget to buy something we can cross the border to go shopping there because the grocery stores are open on sundays 😅

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks for pointing that out! We did notice that while in Hamburg and other areas, the stores were open until 9 or 10 pm. Definitely makes us plan a bit better when we shop 😊

[@RustyDust101]

Oooh, you are ready to have another wonderful addition to your family? It's already that time? Wow. All the best for the birth and the time afterwards. The dark, grey, rainy winter weather is probably the number one reason why Germans are considered so distant: if you're stuck inside for three or more months of the year due to sucky weather you tend not to make too many friends during that time. But that's just a gut feeling. Just stay as humble and normal as you are. You are so adorable and fresh compared to other so-called influencers. If it makes you happy do it your way. I love your videos. Again, all the best for you three/four adorable humans.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you so much for the kindness! We are still anxiously waiting on baby, but she will be here SOON! :) It is crazy it's already time! We really appreciate your support. Truly, it means so much you've continued to follow our journey and that you still have such impactful and kind things to say about us!!

[@uliwehner]

@Ashton one thing to consider is that health insurance is tied to employment here in the US. So if Mila loses her job and Healthcare coverage. Her entire family loses coverage. Could Steve pay for insurance for wife and kids with his income? I bet not. They would need the money to pay for housing food and utilities.

[@Luziemagick]

Hey you beautiful family 👪 Is your little one already entered the world...another lovely addition 😀 for you three cuties 😍 Willow will be or already is a wonderful big sis! Great having you here..don't go..you are maximal welcome 🙏 Btw my husband is from the usa/ midwest..he is here since 14 years in may this year. I was briefly in the us for 1,5 years and we got married there still germany is the right place for us..alas..stay awesome and successful!!!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you!

[@FacelessJanus]

The question about weight gain, has more to do with food in Europe vs the US. The US adds loads of sugar, and shelf life additives. Usually Americans loose weight in Europe, while eating basically the same. (Less processed foods, fresh veggies etc)

[@genovevastahlberg4516]

Just love u guys 😁 willa ist so cute

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks 😊

[@gweisa899]

I agree with about being more responsible with little things to keep sustainable. I wish people in the state learn another language. When they are young. Also, time off is true. I am glad you receive maternity leave. My college employees recieve 12 weeks too. I know others in the US don’t really very sad. Same with vacation and sick. I agree with your points.

[@ohauss]

Regarding stores being up at night - there are States in which they are ALLOWED to be open until 10PM, but that decision is still made by the store or chain, and often, the cost/benefit ratio simply isn't there - especially in more rural areas, there simply won't be enough people coming in late. If you can't recover the costs of operation, it becomes a questionable business decision to be open, as you'll take money out of your daytime profits just to offer night-time opening.

[@OurStorytoTell]

There’s a lot of truth in your comment. It’s definitely not necessary, but we were both raised with so much convenience and it seemed like the supermarkets right before closing time had a lot of people grabbing last minute items 😂. It’s probably because many Americans are expert procrastinators, but also maybe because stores are open so late everywhere that people push it off to the last minute.

[@norwegianwood7564]

So, maybe we meet in Scandinavia in summer... 🙂That would be fun. Scandinavia is next level when it comes to child friendly surrounding.

[@OurStorytoTell]

That would be amazing!! We can't wait to experience it for the first time! :) :)

[@katjapagels2677]

Thanks for your great video. I don't know any German who gets their child out of the car at the gas station. The kids stay in the car.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Really interesting & great to know! Being Americans we probably have this instilled fear about leaving them in the car, but we love hearing that it is safe here in Germany!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Interesting! I guess it’s something we’ve been so used to doing while being here.

[@MichaelBurggraf-gm8vl]

I'm quite sure it'll be an amazing experience for you when you'll watch those videos in 15 or 20 years. All the best to you.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Truly our reason why!! 😊 Thank you!

[@verenanagel833]

It’s so fun watching this video while eating Kaesespaetzle 🤣

[@OurStorytoTell]

We wish we had some 😋😋

[@dittesque]

Are you subscribed to the Easy German channel here on youtube? I think it’s a nice way to expose yourself to German more and learn a bit about Germany and Germans at the same time, they have a lot of videos where they speak with people on the streets about daily habits etc. (Oh and they are subtitled in english :))

[@OurStorytoTell]

I have watched several of their videos and they are helpful! As ironic as it sounds, we don’t watch a lot of KZbin in general. It would be a great idea to watch two or three videos a week to get in the habit and hear more German! Thanks for the tip.

[@schmidtchristian1401]

A schön euch zusehen 😊😊😊😊🇩🇪🇺🇸😘 super Video. Schön das es euch gut geht. Ganz dicken Kuss aus Sachsen

[@susanstein6604]

It’s not so much the heat but I’m allergic to grass, ragweed and about seven other outdoor plants, including roses and lavender so I always want an air conditioner?

[@quo33]

There's so much stuff these days that you can watch online. Basically every channel has series and films online (ZDS Mediathek, ARD Mediathek, same with arte etc.), many of which have (German) subtitles. Or do you ever watch the news? I was only 16 when I went to France for a week with my class and already after a few days, I felt like it would be so much easier to learn French if I lived there for while. Granted, most conversations were "Ca va? Oui, ca va. Ca va?" 😄But still. Just watching the news every night and stuff like that.

[@peterdoe2617]

My wife was american. So I'm still watching reactions from US citizens on Germany from time to time. My tip for learing german vocabulary would be (I'm very much into it.) cooling. Self-adjusting vocabulary. I.e.: you like squid? you learn: Tintenfisch? You dont? you cab forget this word for years. You will learn the words that are actually useful to know in your personal life. Point 2: even if you don't get every word at 1st sight: you watch those people doing their job. 3rd point: it can be tasty ;-) Plus it's a nice way to get in contact with neighbours: sharing recipes for a BBQ or hiddies birthday...etc. A limited number of words, instantly related to your everyday life. I wanna gibe you one example if a dish I did cook. Easy. Relatively quick. And super-yummy! (My best example for a really fancy dish.) CALLE kocht: Carl-Michael Hofmann is showing traditional german cuisibe. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z2mxk2R_rMSagdE Liebe Grüße aus dem hohen Norden!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thanks so much for the tips and also the dish idea!! 😊

[@jillianturman7853]

I also think the best food I have ever had in Germany was in Fussen!!!

[@svenpetersen1965]

I neither have an AC nor an ice maker. But if you really want, you could buy those things here, of course. Not having it is just my choice. :-) Last summer (2022) was quite warm. I tried to cope with it with „smart ventilation“ (keep the windows close while daytime and open doors and windows over night), which kind of worked out for me. Usually, it is not that warm, here, it is only a week or two in a years, that AC would be a thing.

[@DerPuttes]

To be honset. I´ve never ever been aware of how long the sun could hide behind the clowds in Germany :D hours, weeks i dont know

[@memyselfandi3202]

Ya'll show Würzburg when you mention the 'no so great time'? The time between Jan and March should be when you are in the Fasching fever. :D

[@OurStorytoTell]

Oh haha we loved Würzburg, but rather meant to show a city in the winter! Definitely not as great as in the summer, but still great exploring it nonetheless! ☺️

[@zunairbirds3984]

Beautiful family ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@OurStorytoTell]

Thank you!

[@florentinzimmer7924]

stay here in germany, we are looking for families like yours; its easy to get a job in bavaria or baden württemberg

[@michelly183]

The heat is far more difficult on a pregnant woman. That came from my doctor when I was pregnant. Just sayin. Love love love the food vlogs! It’s very interesting and fun!

[@OurStorytoTell]

I believe it because I definitely felt it! Soo happy you love the food vlogs! Thanks for watching 😊😋

[@jallen69]

In the early 1990's the grocery stores closed at 6 PM lol

[@nothing2chere324]

S..t i live in the town you see when the green train leavs the station, since i married a german wife after my time in the army. 7:02

[@OurStorytoTell]

Hey that’s cool!!

[@khecke]

In 2 years time you should have been able to learned the German language pretty well. It took me about 6 months (coming from Germany) to understand and speak American English - but I also had English in high school in Germany. which may have made the difference. Anyway you visited in 2 years many more countries than I - living in Germany for 23 years.

[@zimmergameszimmerc6077]

You should go to Belize 🇧🇿 I’ve been there

[@CavHDeu]

What helped me a lot is that i stopped translating in my head and just listen

[@OurStorytoTell]

Good tip!! :)

[@CavHDeu]

@@OurStorytoTell another very interesting way of learning languages is the Vera F. Birkenbihl method.

[@CavHDeu]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3uofX6Co56Gm8k

[@arnodobler1096]

At gas stations briefly leave the children alone in the car, is not a thing here. Especially since all the gas stations I know are monitored by camera. That must be the American fear in you. We talk so much about the "German Angst" (insurance companies, etc.), but I find the US fear sadder. Have a great time!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Honestly we think you are right! It doesn’t feel that comfortable for us to leave them inside, but we love that it feels safe for so many (& sounds like it IS safe) here in Germany!

[@OurStorytoTell]

It’s likely in part because of that too, but we have just always brought her in with us while getting gas if we are alone

[@arnodobler1096]

@@OurStorytoTell Getting rid of a feeling or a fear is not easy and takes time! I understand that.

[@Why-D]

If you look upon old English, the languages of Geran and English are quite close. May be, that helps.

[@achimschroter8046]

Winter in G is an a......ole. but those 3 or 4 month in summer are more worth than 1 year on the bahamas

[@OurStorytoTell]

That is true! I mean weve never been to the Bahamas but we really love summertime here! 😍

[@kucnimajstor2901]

You got your backpack stollen in Croatia so did i, and i even live here..

[@HexenMeister4187]

March 8th is international women's day. Would be a perfect date

[@OurStorytoTell]

That’s true!! We are really hoping it happens! 😊

[@Humpelstilzchen]

Excuse for Döner. Every Donnerstag (Thursday) is Dönerstag 👍😊🌮🌯

[@bastelomastephi4621]

Hello you two, as they say in Germany, you shouldn't get angry about the weather. (Know-it-all mode on) our weather comes from Central America, because the Gulf Stream is responsible for our weather. That's why it's so often wet here, the warm Gulf Stream brings a lot of water from the Atlantic and since the Gulf Stream is slowly cooling down here, we get a lot of rain. You could say 😉 it's America's fault it's so humid here (Laugh... I'm not that serious). Best regards Stephi

[@tschaytschay4555]

Aaaah yes, Kässpätzle, pure soul food. ☺

[@OurStorytoTell]

😋😋😋

[@howierfs5471]

Hi guys, yes, from my point of view, from my feelings even I dont know you personally, I can confirm that you are an ordinary family. This is shown often in your videos. There is nothing artificial and all your opions are honest. I guess thats why you have so many viewers. Risa, you missed to mention the icecream you loved to get in Rothenburg. Have you find similar in the meantime nearby ? Just one hint for you: be mentally prepared once you get stuck in conversation in german that Willa will help you out. Dont get to much shocked. Crossing my fingers for you and baby girl coming that everything will happen smoothly and healthy. Hope Willa will be enjoyed about her little sister as well. I am sure for the prince of three ladys. I am sure there are always pros and cons wherever you live but as long as you somehow can arrange with the cons, you will feel comfy. To live in Germany it isnt the worst you can do. CU

[@OurStorytoTell]

Hi Howie!! Such a kind comment! Thank you so much! And yes, we didn't mention it, but Risa could NEVER forget about the ice cream in Rothenburg! Mmmmm we've searched high and low for gelato as good as that, but honestly, we haven't found anything that compares...yet! Have a great week!

[@rolandpreissler1861]

Ihr seid eine Bereicherung für Deutschland 😍

[@tommoses6557]

Berechnung? Oder nicht doch eher eine Bereicherung? 😉

[@rolandpreissler1861]

@@tommoses6557 ja klar... doofe Texterkennung 😂

[@S16E1]

Das stimmt Das sind sie

[@muddyfeet69]

100 % agree - best american family in Germany ever ♥

[@Dahrenhorst]

There is no perfect country. Among the approx 40 countries I've visited during my life, I came to the conclusion, that the western/northern European countries are the best countries to live in as an employed citizen (for entrepreneurs there are better countries), and the language you speak is the main reason to choose the one over the other. South European countries are a close second, they only don't provide the same political stability and resilience against corruption tendencies. I haven't been in Canada, Australia or New-Zealand, but I hear good things from those countries, too. I think that the USA is by far the most over-rated country in the World. I would not live there if you would give me a million Dollars, because of the poor work-life balance, the non-existing employee and customer protection, the ridiculously expensive health and education systems, the gun fascination and violence and danger coming from that, the crazy radicalized and dividing political and religious framework, the structural racism and mysogeny, the inconsistent prudishness, and finally their superiority stance and exuberant nationalism/patriotism combined with their love for violence, military and war.

[@albin2232]

You said everything I would say.

[@1201suddenturn]

not our appearance, but how we FEEL 👍🏼

[@gweisa899]

Be interesting to see if Willa be able to keep her German Language skills if you move out of German after 3-5 or be able to continue with a school with German Language in it?

[@witty2u]

Why don't you get yourself a mobile AC? And if you miss your icemaker, get yourself a new fridge. We do have these kind of fridges as well. It is just not as common over here, because we don't care too much about ice cubes in our glass. 😀

[@witty2u]

PS... I believe we set the fridge temperature colder in Germany, because I cannot recall having had milk or juice as cold as we would have it over here. The temperature here is around 5° C... not above and that already is super cold, when I drink something right out of the fridge. I dislike ice cubes in softdrinks for example, because they will water my softdrink or my juice. 😀

[@andreasbrandt1082]

Regarding your experiences with medical facilities: The reason why the notices are so sparse is because all medical professions (hospitals and doctors) practicing within the legal healthcaresystem (so about everyone ex beauty surgeons) are legally prohibited to advertise their services in Germany ("Werbeverbot").

[@OurStorytoTell]

That’s what we heard! Although, we have seen advertisements for a dentist on a bus before. It seemed a bit out of place from what we have been used to in Germany!

[@thiloreichelt4199]

@@OurStorytoTell The Werbeverbot is softening due to European integration. It was much stricter in the 90s.

[@timr.9924]

😊😀 9:55 why don't you just buy a fridge including an ice-maker and cold water? I mean I am german and my wife and I have one, our friends have frdiges incl ice-,akers... so I am sure you can do it too.... btw. very nice to see you still being happy here. I have much respect for your guys because you are so not typical american (stero types are always wrong, I know) and you are realy trying so much things. I believe you couldn't do better.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Wow so kind!! Sorry we are slow to respond back, but your comment means a lot!

[@franhunne8929]

If you want/need to move within the next years - think of Willa and her needs for education. So you might want to avoid her starting school here, for example, and then take her to a country with a completely different school system, it would be beneficial if you move before she turns 6. Particularly her first years are very important. Or - find another job here and wait till she has finished primary school.

[@OurStorytoTell]

Yes we have definitely thought about that! We will likely be moving before she starts school here. Which is hard for us to think about, but the work contract lines up well with that.

[@franhunne8929]

@@OurStorytoTell Sad that you will go in a few years, but I wish you the best for your future plans.

[@S16E1]

@@OurStorytoTell that’s really sad to hear

[@maxbarko8717]

Can’t you just leave your kids in the car when paying for gas? It’s only a,few,minutes and they won’t drive away without you.

[@shu982]

just leave them in the car. I everybody else. Just log the doors.

[@OurStorytoTell]

So true!! We haven't felt comfortable about it...probably because we came from the US, but I think with 2 kids that will quickly change haha! :)

[@angelab4518]

Funny. Never seen anyone take their kid(s) out of the car to pay at gas station. I'm sorry but I don't really get your concern. Hijacking?? Just lock the doors, tell them you'll be right back and it takes like 2min. If they sleep - all the better. :) Never ever heard or read of any harm done to kids waiting in cars at gas stations. Just relax. ;)

[@nirnandu]

🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@mweh3936]

So, if you like your life here - I think it is possible for you to stay if you like. Yes, I know Tanner is working for the US government, but Germany just changed the immigration laws, finally acknowledging that Germany needs immigration, especially by skilled immigrants. So if you use the time to improve your German you have in your sponsored time, this option should be a low hanging fruit afterwards. And as Roland Preissler wrote: You are a gain for Germany. I add: for sure. Ah, and coming over the gray period - I thought you have discovered German "Therme" and "Sauna" already for yourself - so I need it in Winter at least every to weeks, and the gray, rainy weather is no longer an issue.

[@OurStorytoTell]

So true and thank you!! Also yes the sauna is amazing in the winter!!

[@HS-wp5vb]

Very nice video. Air conditioners and ice makers are obviously things that you will not find anywhere in Europe, this is not a peculiarity of Germany. The same goes for the weather. It's rainier in the West (of Germany, of Europe) and colder in the East (of Germany, of Europe) , so you decide. 😁

[@pietg.6249]

Döner is not (!) a typical german food! 😏 Sort of like Tacos in America...

[@stefanhaler3318]

We call it "winterdepression!

[@OurStorytoTell]

Ahh yes the seasonal depression!

[@stefanhaler3318]

Winterschlaf, Frühjahrsmüdigkeit, Sommerloch und Herbstdepression. Da sind die Deutschen erfindungsreich.