Tomorrow will complete three weeks since my arrival on August 17. The first week seemed to drag on given I was extremely overwhelmed with language and the whole shock of a new situation. The following weekend seemed to last just as long, if not longer than the first week because for the first time in my life I was fairly isolated. This was a new experience for me because at college and back home, friends were always right down the hall or a phone call away. A year was beginning to seem like a very long time. However this previous week was much better for me. I feel more adjusted to the culture and my Spanish has improved since my arrival which I am appreciative of. It is also very helpful to have other SALTers for a support group and the persons prayers from back home. Yet three weeks will soon pass quickly and I will be on my way to Concepcion where new challenges and experiences await.
I am anticipating this move because even though I really enjoy my host family and the MCC support group, I am anxious to be in a smaller setting. Maybe my perception of the campo (country) is a little idealistic, but I believe I will enjoy it a little more. I will let you know if my opinion changes after a couple of months. I do like the city and all, but it is very busy and like I have previously shared, you can feel very isolated. Primarily though I am quite ready to start my job even though I have enjoyed this period of adjustment in Santa Cruz.
Nothing has really changed thus far in my schedule. I have language study two hours every morning and spend the afternoons with my tutors for a couple of hours. This past Thursday we went and saw a movie dubbed in Spanish: The Mummy. I then spend the evenings with my host family. However this weekend we will be hopefully be heading to Moro Moro, it all depends if there are bloqueos (acts of civil disobedience in which citizens block all travel on different roads throughout the country) or not. They are quite annoying and have caused a diesel shortage in the city which means there are less micros driving around and people have to wait longer to get home.
I will hopefully be posting some pictures soon showing where I live and who my host family is. Blessings and thank you for all your prayers.
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3 comments:
Hey, I'm glad to hear that you are adjusting well and finding the positives in certain situations. I am really anxious to see pictures though so hurry up and send them our way!! :) No rush :). We think of you often.
Hey son...We love you!
P.S. this is a test...I set up this account for mom and dad to see if it works. They probably really do love you though. :)
Caleb,
Thanks so much for keeping us posted with your blog - we remember you in our prayers daily! We know how much you love to talk to people - so we are really praying for you as you are learning and expanding your Spanish vocabulary.
We miss you - but we are so thankful that you are using your talents and gifts to serve the Lord.
Blessings to you,
Jon and Becky
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