Perhaps you could find a botanic garden or similar spot to escape the Ruhrpott. There are a bunch of nice excursions you can do there, such as Muenster and Monschau.
I am glad that you have the move behind you at least, and that you are still running. One point of sanity in a gray world...
What did you think of Denmark? I had wild times there when in college.
I think you might find it good to share your ups and downs here, where people do care and will respond.
