Posted by: Chica
One Year and Counting! - 04/15/02 03:33 PM
Today marks my first year anniversary since arriving in Spain as a newlywed! 
One of my students today asked me, so, how has the past year been for you? On reflection, I think I have come a long way...
Granted, I spoke Spanish fluently before arriving, it has been the whole culture acclimation that has really gotten me...understanding the politics, understanding the healthcare system, the local culture, the Spanish "personality", etc. A lot of what LiM posted a few months back.
On the "technical" side, I have learned to drive stick shift and manage the Spanish highways without fear (I hate being lost when I am in a hurry!! other than that, I welcome the opportunity to explore). I have learned how to present/defend myself (damn well I might add) in job interviews...they are totally different than interviews in the states.
How personal do I want to get in this post? Hmmm...well I miss my family but we are in touch frequently. I have not been homesick at all. However, there have been moments when I have been really really sad about missing my friends in the states. There is something to be said for that best girlfriend who is just a "cup of coffee away". Slowly but surely am making friends, which is of course a welcome relief!
For those planning on making the leap to move here and live here (not just tourism or study for 10 months and then back home)...it´s a whole different ball game. It is truly a wonderful and eye opening experience.
To celebrate the anniversary, I think we will have a tortilla de patata!!
One of my students today asked me, so, how has the past year been for you? On reflection, I think I have come a long way...
Granted, I spoke Spanish fluently before arriving, it has been the whole culture acclimation that has really gotten me...understanding the politics, understanding the healthcare system, the local culture, the Spanish "personality", etc. A lot of what LiM posted a few months back.
On the "technical" side, I have learned to drive stick shift and manage the Spanish highways without fear (I hate being lost when I am in a hurry!! other than that, I welcome the opportunity to explore). I have learned how to present/defend myself (damn well I might add) in job interviews...they are totally different than interviews in the states.
How personal do I want to get in this post? Hmmm...well I miss my family but we are in touch frequently. I have not been homesick at all. However, there have been moments when I have been really really sad about missing my friends in the states. There is something to be said for that best girlfriend who is just a "cup of coffee away". Slowly but surely am making friends, which is of course a welcome relief!
For those planning on making the leap to move here and live here (not just tourism or study for 10 months and then back home)...it´s a whole different ball game. It is truly a wonderful and eye opening experience.
To celebrate the anniversary, I think we will have a tortilla de patata!!
