I miss you.
Last night we went out in downtown Toledo for my friend´s birthday and I was told I speak like a Mexicana since I use words like ahorita. I cannot tell if this is an insult. I am glad I sound like some kind of Spanish speaking person rather than some obnoxious American gringa but realized how frustrating understanding the language here can be. I had no trouble (not entirely true) understanding the accents of South Americans last summer, but here it is so different. I was reminded that we have only been here for a week and to chill out, but for some reason last night it just really got to me. I was frustrated with not being able to jump in Civ and drive wherever, with not being able to express myself verbally, with not being able to call people and talk about nothing for hours, with not being able to see all my friends and family.
I have heard that the best thing for this kind of feeling is to get away, and when you get back your home away from home starts to actually feel like a home. We are leaving for Valencia tomorrow after a guided tour of Toledo. I have actually started feeling at home with the Perez´s- I like my comfy little room, love the way the house smells with all the windows open in the evening and look forward to speaking with them every night.
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2 comments:
ahaha the ahorita thing was said to me too in CHILE! they all thought i was mexican...but now they think I'm Colombian because i have a hybrid spanish-mexican accent.
or, if they don't think i am either, I am Israeli to them. Thanks?
Hi Katie! It's Michael Parra, don't know if you remember me. I am Olga's son, Ivan's nephew. ND alum, class of 94. I just read all your posts and got extremely jealous. I was in Toledo in 92-93, in the same program! It was the best time of my life. If you keep an open mind, and dont let the cold showers get you down, it'll be the best time in yours too.
I'm not going to tell you what you should do...this experience is yours to live and cherish. But I will give you some "friendly advice." Do with it as you wish. Make nice with Victor (the concierge) at the Fundacion if he's still there. Eat at Trebol, if it's still there. Best pulgas ever! Go to Marea (bar) and get to know Manolo. Again, if it's still there. One last thing - when your stomach gets bent out of shape (it will), plaza Zocodover has great fries at this place called...McDonald's. That always set me straight. Sad, but true!
I have a feeling my advice is outdated. 15 years...wow.
You are getting ready to make incredible memories in a wonderful country. Cherish your time in Spain, and the people you meet.
And if the fat professor with the beard and glasses is teaching the Don Quixote class, take it!!
Okay, no more advice. Joder, tio!
All my best,
michael
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