Today is Canada’s birthday!
Feeling nostalgic, I listened to the Canadian anthem sung by The Tenors on YouTube. It gave me goosebumps and reminded me that, even after 12 years of living in Germany, being Canadian is a deeply emotional part of my identity.
When I first moved here, I started this blog to document my experiences living abroad and to stay connected with family and friends back home. It’s been an incredibly rewarding journey, but not without its challenges.
Early Days as an Expat
Shortly after moving to Germany, I gave this interview to C2 Magazine about adjusting to life and work here. Looking back, it’s funny how some things haven’t changed over the years—I still struggle with German, and I’m still longing for Cheerios, my favorite childhood breakfast cereal.
Yet, over time, I’ve grown fond of the German way of life.
Why I’ve Grown to Love Germany
Seasonal Food
I love how food is celebrated seasonally here. For instance, asparagus (“Spargel”) season runs from mid-April to June, and you’ll find it everywhere—on menus and at local markets. After that, it’s scarce unless imported. In Canada, asparagus is available year-round, but somehow, it doesn’t feel as special.
Sundays are the best.
On Sundays, you’re not allowed to make noise (i.e. no worries about a neighbour firing up their lawnmower – or worse, a leaf blower – the minute you sit down outside to eat breakfast) and most stores remain closed. You’ll see people enjoying nature alone or with family by going for walks and bike rides, and lounging in cafés.
The Bread!
German bread and buns are unparalleled. Maybe one day I’ll be able to pronounce Brötchen (buns).
The Honesty
As a Canadian, adjusting to the directness of Germans was a challenge at first. Imagine a stranger telling you your car needs a wash! Now, I’ve learned to appreciate their honesty—it’s refreshing in its own way.
Balancing Work and Family in Germany
Initially, I didn’t plan to work here. My son had just turned four, and I wanted to focus on helping him and my family adjust to our new life. But due to unforeseen circumstances, I re-entered the workforce sooner than expected.
My husband joined a German company called Rotocontrol, which was just starting up. Soon after, I joined to assist with marketing communications. Rotocontrol’s flexibility in allowing me to work from home was a lifesaver since we didn’t have family nearby to help with childcare.
Starting My Freelance Journey
While working part-time at Rotocontrol, I had an idea: why not offer my marketing communication services to other companies as a freelancer? That idea became reality, and soon I had more clients.
Today, I’m grateful to still work as a freelancer primarily in the print industry. This journey has allowed me to balance my professional goals with personal responsibilities—a luxury I don’t take for granted.
What I Miss Most About Canada
Often I’m asked if I feel ‘wohl’ (comfortable) living in Germany. For the most part I am and appreciate my life journey here that has enriched my life.
I’m often asked what I miss most about Canada. My top three are:
- My family and friends.
- Knowing if I have car trouble and find myself on the side of a road, at least 5 cars will pull over in the first minute asking what they can do to help.
- Ending my sentences with ‘eh’ and not getting strange looks.
I believe home is where you are. For me, for now, it’s Germany.
Today, I am wearing red and white and wish Canada a very Happy Birthday!
Heather Roth Communications 