Transition

If I had to sum this past week up in one word it would be transition. We are now in the regular semester and not in interim. Last week was our first week of real classes and the start to a new semester. Most of us were trying this week to get used to a new rhythm and schedule. All students are being taught by two Native Spanards, G and Alfonzo. Everyone is finished before the main meal of the day by 1:30.

And we are all starting to find the things outside of class to become involved in. Several students are in small Bible studies through the Baptist church. Others are in the choir at the same church. Also some students are starting their ethno -graphic studies in different organizations around Denia. Some students will be keeping up their new friendships with the Chavas students (who went to Barcelona with us) and be conversation partners with them. Some students are even learning how to dance true spanish dances.

The best part of our week for almost everyone was probably our weekend. We had our first long weekend of the semester this weekend as well! So some students took advantage to explore around Spain, Europe, and even Denia. Some brave students went on a long trek of the mountain here for the entire day. Some stayed and hung out with the locals here in Denia. We even had one of our students, Sarah, run in a 10k. Others explored the providence in the south of us, Murcia, and experienced the nature of the country in the mountains. I had the opportunity to travel across the country to Seville and I was able to get a taste of the south of the country. Others students traveled to London and were able to see all the famous landmarks that London has to offer.


I think in the past month I have learned far more about Spain and culture than I ever imagined I would. The Spanish culture is so rich and diverse and the history is so old and interesting.
And after being in Barcelona and Seville, to me Denia is starting to feel more like home. It has definitely been comforting to come back to something familiar after being away (even just for 3 days), and get some good Mediterranean cooking from our mamás : )

-Written by Annie Nicholson