Profile of Sophia

The unintentional expat blogger behind Pine Grove Craft

Sophia Schneider - Founder of Pine Grove Craft Photo: Pine Grove Craft

Hello, I am Sophia

I’m a project manager. A parent. An expat living in Berlin, Germany.

A few years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary contract gradually unfolded into a new chapter of life overseas.

How It Began

Moving to Germany wasn’t part of the long-range plan. Like many expat relocations, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something much bigger.

The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, new expectations. Daily tasks felt more complex than they should.

City skyline in Berlin, Germany
Life in Berlin comes with surprises. Photo: Pine Grove Craft

The Transition Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. Gradually, routines took shape. We found places that worked for us, connected with other families, and started building something that felt steady.

Why I Created Pine Grove Craft

Most information online was either corporate relocation guidance or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.

This site aims to bridge that gap — practical guidance grounded in real life in Germany.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site is:

  • Real-life insights from living in Germany
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated when there are meaningful changes

This site isn't:

  • Not a tourism authority resource
  • Not a sponsored review platform
  • Not a generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our time in Germany goes on, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue documenting what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Berlin or anywhere in Germany, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Best regards,

Sophia

Berlin, Germany