One place many of us spend too much time is our cars. Since we are stuck in them for our commutes, and since driving precludes reading or writing emails, cars are the perfect place to learn through listening. Learning a foreign language like German is great for the car, since learning a new language requires lots of listening time.

Buy a CD that teaches German. "Rush Hour German" by Berlitz and the "Learn in Your Car" series are two CDs specifically geared for people learning while they drive (see Resources).

Find a German-speaking co-commuter. There's nothing like learning from a native speaker who can actually respond to your questions and critique your speaking attempts. Put a notice on GoLoco or Craigslist to offer free commutes for German lessons.

Enroll in a German class or hire a German tutor. Have the teacher or tutor make a CD for you to use for practice in your car that is specifically geared for your level.

Buy a book like "Everything Learning German Book." Record yourself practicing the lessons, then play the CD in the car.

Once you have achieved a working fluency, listen to audio books on CD read in German while you drive.

Becoming fluent using only your commuting time may be quite a challenge, unless you've studied German before. But you can certainly learn enough to get around and get along in Germany.