As I am beginning to feel at home and accustomed to Spanish culture, Ive noticed how time seems to go by quicker. Although this could be because of the long siestas I take everyday. Work at ACNUR (UN Center for Refugees) has stayed the same where I read the newspapers to find important articles and translate documents. I feel very up to date on current events, which I cant say I was in the US. I guess this means it is still possible to learn outside of a google search. World Refugee Day is coming up soon, yet they had to move the date because of the new King's coronation: priorities.
Everybody at work and home is still very helpful and patient with me! Although I wish that they would correct consistent mistakes I make. For example, I just found out a week ago that I have been introducing myself as a female to everyone. I have been saying "encantada" instead of "encantado", but I think my Spanish friends found it entertaining.
I also was able to finally join a gym, which surprisingly is very similar to gyms in the US (minus the weights being in Kilos). There is an overall Jersey Shore vibe with the trainers constantly hitting on girls. I find it easiest to communicate in the gym, as most conversations are done by just pointing and grunting, so Im glad I have another alternative besides McDonalds when I want to feel like I'm back in the US.
This past weekend 3 Michigan students and I went to Granada. It was a beautiful Moorish city that makes you feel like you are somewhere in Africa or the Middle East. The architecture, especially in the old Moorish fort Alhambra was incredible. This was also my first experience of staying in a hostel, which made me feel like I was living in a Co-op at Michigan.
 |
| Alhambra! |
The trip went fairly smoothly, with the exception of immediately ripping the only pair of shorts I brought on a post in the sidewalk. And I wont forget this either, since it is very visible in the pictures.
 |
| Architectural Marvels and Ripped Pants |
I also met a man from Senegal on the streets of Granada, who after a 20 minute conversation gave me his name and number to stay in touch with him. This just showed me the extra experiences you can have by keeping an open mind, since I could have easily walked past the foreign looking man talking to me.
 |
| Making friends wherever I go |
Spain's first World Cup match is tomorrow! So I'm expecting a night full of fútbol and excitment!
¡Vamos España!
