A-HA

It has been a little rough adjusting here but I had somewhat of an A-HA moment last night. I had been stressed about my classes since they start Tuesday but I don't have any. I have been kinda worried about getting around and communicating. And of course I have been missing home. I have already started my Spanish class. I got into level B1 and the highest is B2 so I feel pretty good about that. We basically reviewed yesterday in class but my classmates are all foreign exchange students as well so it is nice to get to know them more. The professor is really nice too! She speaks English as do most of my classmates so if we don't understand she explains but we aren't supposed to speak in English otherwise. The class meets 9-12:30 Monday-Friday until the 6th so I am sure by the 6th my Spanish will be so much better!

I have made friends with the other student from America here and it is so nice to know someone who understands you. I am actually meeting with her soon for the day to explore and possible go to the beach! I don't know how I feel about going out at night with all of the exchange students because taxi's are expensive and I won't walk alone and they stay out til like 5 or later in the morning!! It's crazy here!! No wonder they need a siesta (nap) in the afternoon. From 1/2-5 all of the stores and resturants and everything close for a siesta! It's crazy. I actually did take a nap yesterday but I think this may be a good time for me to explore without too many people being around! Or I could do homework or whatever. I am starting to be able to communicate as well. Last night I was eating dinner with my host mom and we talked and ate for 45 minutes and it was good conversation. I still have to use my translator but slowly I am getting better. Then this morning she was asking me about my plans for the day and she said I talked very well!! This made me feel very good.

Last night I had my A-HA moment though. I know that this is where and what I am supposed to be doing. It feels right even when I feel sick and lost, I mean how bad could it be I'm sick and lost in SPAIN!! How many other people would love to be here! I am starting to feel more comfortable with myself. I know alot of people go out a lot but I am not that girl and I may go out maybe once or twice a week here but why change who I am just to make friends. A lot people come to Spain to party and go to the beach and don't take classes seriously but I am not that person. And if I wouldn't change for people back in the states why change for them here? I am me and if no one likes it then I guess I will just become good friends with my host mom and my homework. I know there has to be one other person that is like me though... I just have to find them!!

But anyways I am going to enjoy my first Saturday in Castellon with my new friend! Oh and if you want to you can see pictures at my 365 project: http://365project.org/pdwhalen/365 I think that this will help me see all the things I do and make the days go by so I don't feel homesick!

I love you all and miss you!