I remember something my colleague Martin said when I told him about your expected visit and how nervous Arne felt about his English skills. He said: "In my experience, Americans are very happy with everyone who tries to speak their language. It's not necessary to be perfect, it's the will to try that counts."

And I have to say: it's the same the other way round. Every German I know is happy with every German word that is tried by an American - no matter how it sounds, it's the will that's important. :)