Robyn.Bowles.es

Last night we finally did something social. One of the German students in my class organized a group of 8 people to go out. We were the only Americans with 2 Brazilians, 1 Chinese, 1 Dutch, 1 French and the German.

We were intially going to go to Plaza Mayor which is a large outdoor plaza within four walls that has many restaurants, but we weren’t exactly sure where it was and although I think we were close, the German was ready for a drink NOW! We found a place that had a table for 8 and we enjoyed drinks, conversation and tapas.

The Europeans were especially interested in hearing about President Bush (he is not liked among most Europeans), and wanted to know what we thought about Arnold Schwarzenegger and Larry Flynn running for Governor of California. I must admit that I felt a bit uneducated compared to all that they seemed to know about happenings in the U.S. It was also interesting that they all knew English very well, as well as their own language and now Spanish! It is sad that so few people in the U.S. know another language – although, we typically don’t have as much need or opportunity to use other languages as do the European countries.

My class seemed to go a little better today and yesterday. I think part of it is that I am a little more relaxed about the fact that I don’t know as much as the others and that is ok. I will, however, drop down a level on Monday. I was given a new book for Monday and did not have to pay for it since “we put you in the wrong class”, as the receptionist said. I think I might do a little preparing for Monday, although I do not know where in the book I will begin.

Tomorrow is El día de Asuncion, a religious holiday which recognizes the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Many places will be closed, including our school. It has been confirmed to us that there will be a festival tonight, tomorrow and maybe Saturday on el Calle Paloma – which is where we went in search of a festival a few days ago and found nothing but kids playing. Apparently this area is the oldest in Madrid. Perhaps we’ll wonder down there tonight.

And finally, the update on my illness: I am feeling better in general, but the cough is still frequent and hard and painful and I blow my nose every ten minutes. Thank you for tuning in for another day of reporting from Madrid.

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