I guess it's about time I get my act together and post something. I can no longer use my computer as an excuse since I now have a functioning space bar.
Winter is definitely here. I know I complain about the cold all the time(at least that's what friends keep telling me...), but it's getting even colder here(low 40's at night..). Wouldn't be so bad if houses had heat, but they don't so it's starting to get a bit interesting..... I'm in good company though. Peruvians aren't huge fans of the cold either. Besides the weather, I've enjoyed being here for the World Cup. I'm just not used to the hard core fans, alteration of class times for a game, and the high level of emotion involved in fútbol (players and fans too...) It's been an interesting cultural experience.
I'm thankful to have had a few sweet days in the U.S. last month. It was nice to thaw out a little bit, but even better was being at home to see my sister get married. It was a great occasion and good to see family and friends after three months of living in Peru. I was able to catch up on my American pop culture, enjoy Dunkin Donuts coffee, and lots of other things too.... It was a fun time, but it's good to be back in Arequipa.
School continues to be a challenge, but is still enjoyable. Plenty more tenses and vocabulary every week. At this point, I'm just excited to have more vocabulary and be able to speak a bit more intelligently. The other day I had a wonderful surprise when I noticed some paperwork that said I'm at the intermediate level now. Yay!!! After studying for 17 weeks, I've made some kind of progress.... I also believe I had my first dream in Spanish. It was quite strange. I guess Spanish has finally invaded my entire life. It's been a good thing, just a bit disturbing. I think my brain's rebelling just a little bit at this point. I'm forgetting words in English and am having a hard time spelling words in English and in Spanish too. It's great!!
So, for now I'm half baked, but Spanish is slowly but surely getting into my brain. I'm looking forward to being finished with school and getting to my end destination, but am encouraged daily as I walk through the process of becoming best friends with Spanish. So far, it's been an interesting ride and I imagine it will continue to be so.
Hasta próximo tiempo!!
