Actualizaciones

1. I've been thinking more about what i will do after this program. I got an ambitious wind a few weeks ago and have been thinking more seriously about getting my masters, possibly to study ESL (english as a second language instruction) at UT the next fall semester. I have been preparing my essay, contacting old professors and mentors for letters of recommendation, and asking my mother to order more of my GRE test scores. Just because I apply, doesnt mean i'll go or go right away. Im still considering my options. I might get a job in Chile. I might get a job working with international students at a university in the US. I might find another teaching job in Austin. I might just find something else along the way, between now and then.

2. I have actually found a few good Chilean friends with similar interets: intellectual-artist-musicians-film makers. They only speak Spanish so it has been great practice for me. And I still see my best buds Nicole and Joseph all the time. Good friends and family here definitely make this place feel like home.

3. I'm getting out more (the weather is finally nice!). I go out every day during the week to walk in the sun with my ipod for at least an hour or two. Sometimes I have a destination (ie. meeting up with friends for coffee) and sometimes I dont. Last weekend I went out to the town festival and then out dancing. I will be going out this weekend to see one of my new friends DJ at a club.

4. Im becoming more involved in the community. Ive been to local bball and soccer games, choir practice, church services, ...ive done pretty much anything a local does. I'm going to join a gym soon and next month, I plan on taking art or cooking lessons. This is the difference between being a tourist and a temporary Chilean!

5. Everything is finally easier: speaking Spanish and teaching.

6. Last but not least: My parents are coming to visit! I am really excited to show them around Curico, introduce them to my Chilean family, and travel with them. It should be a very nice and funny visit (Mom and Dad, i hope you are studying your spanish!) I plan on taking them to the see the beach, a winery, waterfalls, and a cute german town. I even got permission to skip 4 days of class. (My students are really gonna miss me!)