पास बे उपों यू!

I got up bright and early this morning after a late night of chatting with my roommate. Made it to my first language class this morning and I hope that you enjoy the photo below that is me waiting outside of my language school—just like all those first day of school photos from the good old days.

It was raining this morning, which is a good thing around here. I was a bit surprised when I saw this outside my window, but was delighted when I watched a little guy run back and forth in the rain to get out in it, then hide from it. It was delightful.
After sitting down for my first language class I had my worries rise up, but was excited as my teacher is very sweet and is really great. I really admire teachers. I taught ESL for a bit and now have such respect for the students I had. My teacher was gracious, very helpful, precise, and great at reading my face when I was in distress. I really enjoyed the initial session and will be continuing my three hours a day through Thursday of next week to catch up to an already further along classmate. There is hope here.
After my session, I joined some friends for a late lunch that was great and serves as the meal of choice in this place. I have been delightfully surprised that people do indeed dine out (which is one of my favorite things to do) often. This has been fun and pretty inexpensive at the same time.
Afterward, I had the opportunity to check out the country’s version of Wal*Mart. Purchased an exciting microwave for my roommate and I. The store really had many items and I was very surprised to see what all is available. I am thankful. Especially thankful that a friend drove us there, so we wouldn’t have to walk a microwave back to our place.
I got to see some new parts of the city today and it really got me excited as some sites were very distinct reminders of home. It was surprising, yet delightful. I am really glad to be here and just excited about learning more about the culture, language and people.
Next weekend I am tagging along with some friends to go to another city a couple hours away। I am really stoked as this will be a really neat opportunity to learn more about the different people in this place. I am very grateful for this time and am in a positive mind.