Sunday afternoon I was introduced to Doña Natiz who will be my host mom for the next five weeks while I am living here in Santa Cruz. She cleans at the MCC center which is convenient because we can travel together back and forth in the morning and afternoon; about an hour bus ride. This allows us to have some good conversations (I try to anyways) so long as the bus isn´t overcrowded with people. Which given the fact that they cram as many people as possible into what looks like VW micro buses, many times we ride in silence. She has been very helpful though and is a wonderful host mom. I am so thankful for the family´s generosity and hospitality even though it must be inconvenient, but I know they do not see it like that. She enjoys showing me off to her friends and explaining that I am her "new" son. Doña Natiz also has two other sons which live with her.
My spanish thus far is improving, but I have also been quite frustrated lately. I have never heard people talk so quickly in my life. I sympathize with persons who are new to a different environment. Not being able to express my thoughts clearly and accurately, do to my relatively small vocabulary, has also been rather annoying. People have told me that I will be fluent in no time, it is very hard for me to believe them. I realize the posibility, but right now it is just hard to imagine myself speaking fluently. However, my spanish teacher is very helpful and I have millions of opportunities to practice. Yet, thoughts and prayers would be much appreciated nonetheless. I am just so thankful I have a chance to get adjusted before traveling to Concepcion. Worrying about a job would make my experience a little more stressful at the moment.
I must keep this post rather short since my host mother has just motioned for me to hurry up. I do not have a lot of time to write about everything and if anyone has questions, please feel free to leave a comment and I will get back to you as soon as possible. Blessings.
4 comments:
Caleb,
It sounds like you are having a great experience in Bolivia. This is the first time that I have tried posting a response. I guess I will see how it works :). And remember, you are in my prayers every day as I go to bed, and then also when I remember you in my thoughts during the day. May God continue to bless your work in Bolivia . . .
Nathan
Hi Caleb, Good to hear from you. You are in our prayers daily. We pray Christ will surround you with His presence and help you learn the language quickly. Love, Dad and Mom
Caleb,
Sounds amazing. From my experience in Ecuador, your Spanish will see marked improvements in 5 weeks or less. I feel your frustration, but it's always best to smile and laugh :) Take care.
HI, Caleb, great to hear about your experiences so far. I found my Spanish improved even in just a week in Ecuador a few years ago. I'm eager to hear about your further work. Tenga un buen dia !! (That's what I tell Hispanic customers at Crowded Closet and they seem to appreciate it - or maybe they're laughing at me).
Roger Farmer
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