It’s been an incredible month, so here are a few things to fill you in on:
Language:
Is coming….slowly. To be honest, I’m getting frustrated with it, and I occasionally find myself wondering if I’ve even improved at all in a month. But then I stop and realize that I definitely wouldn’t have been able to understand that entire Philosophy lesson a month ago, or have that complete conversation with Nuria. I can’t tell you how much of an effort it is, though, to be constantly translating. Right now I’m still doubting that there actually comes a point where I won’t have to translate in my head first. Whenever I talk to a previous exchange student, my first question is always “when did you notice the language really start to ‘click’?” with the hopes that they can reassure me that I won’t leave in 9 months without reaching that point. (If any previous exchangers are reading this and want to answer that question, it would be appreciated ☺ ).
Friends:
Are wonderful. Yesterday (Friday) was the monthly cena del curso where our whole grade goes out to dinner together. David, Patricia, and I took the bus to Valencia a little early, around 8, and they took me around the city again. The buildings were gorgeous at night. We ate ice cream and walked around until about 10:30, and then we met everyone for dinner at 11. At one point we started telling jokes, and of course, everyone wanted me to tell one in English. I chose a simple, albeit stupid one- courtesy of Erin Maher- which resulted in many blank stares and “but that wasn’t funny….” comments. (Two muffins were sitting in the oven. One muffin said “Man it’s hot in here!” and the other said “AH! A talking muffin!!”). I should have known better- I tried that one last week when Nuria and Sandra asked me for an English joke. I need to accumulate some better ones.
School:
Is crazy hard, but luckily all the teachers are happy to have me at least attempt some of the assignments. I can definitely handle that, especially since, if nothing else, it’s helping my Spanish improve.
Random:
I’m hopefully joining Rotaract, which is basically Rotary for 18-30ish year olds. The leader contacted my host family asking if I was interested, since the club in Valencia is mostly 18-20 year olds. I’m waiting for more information, but I’m pretty excited for it. Also, I may be starting flamenco lessons- more on that to come!
A bit of bragging:
Last Sunday we went to my aunt and uncle’s house to have lunch with them and baby Julia. I would just like to gloat a little bit to all my Midwestern friends and family and say that that day was October 3rd, and we went swimming in their outdoor pool. Let’s just say I’m loving the weather.
I think I’ve written more than enough for now, but I’ll fill you in on more later! Here’s to a great first month, and many more to come!
Besitos!
XOXO
Paige
Valencia at night
Isn't it gorgeous?
A Gelato shop in Valenica- the flavors in the picture include Tortilla de Patatas and Gazpacho. David actually tried them (and then decided chocolate was a safer idea).
Ayuntamienta de Valencia (City Hall of Valencia)
Plaza de Toros
I'm kinda bummed about the joke! (It's not my best, but still! ) :)
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