Japanese was one of my majors in college. Tough language! I can't imagine taking on Japanese & Chinese at the same time! I was also fluent in German many years ago (I lived there). Your language experience is most likely similar to mine..."Use it or lose it."

Having lived in Germany before English was widely spoken in eastern Germany, I know how lonely one can feel when emersed in a new language. I add this because it makes me think of Soupe du jour. I hate to address this for her, but I greatly missed English when I was in Germany. The telephone & emailing were great sources of comfort for me. In addition to mental health support, I'd imagine these boards serve that purpose for her. We've PMed once or twice about being expats. Is living abroad exciting & an adventure? Absolutely! Can it be lonely & difficult? Absolutely! Just a shout out to Soupe...be nice to her!