Sender	Christina Harms	Back to Inbox
Subject	Surprises

Dear Siegen-Liverpudlians,

What is life without surprises? When I returned to Siegen from home one day before our take-off to the European Capital of Culture 2008, I certainly did not expect the week ahead of me to become what it became. I thought there would be the one or the other highlight for sure, probably some interesting sights, maybe some nice people to hang out with during the week, and hopefully not too much rain.

- A surprise when my personal predetermined “highlight of the week”, the final of the Tour of Britain bike race, became just one of many great experiences.

- A surprise that after getting a email rejection for my most favorite job application on the second day in Liverpool, I had no chance to feel bad about it and still enjoyed the excursion.

- A surprise that some of you turned out to be so much more interesting, nicer and funnier than I would have ever expected.

- A surprise that Liverpool presented itself as such a vivid and special city.

- A surprise that Liverpudlians speak an English that sounds like Danish if you are not listening closely and gave us a warm welcome everywhere we went.

What is life without surprises? Thanks for surprising me.

Best wishes to all of you,

Christina