Namaste and Persimmons

Christmas Eve was quite different this year. There wasn't any obnoxious family around, no massive turkey dinner, or drunken beer pong matches. It was a silent night, a holy night. All was calm, all was bright. ;)

I joined up with a great friend Darbie and some other friends instead for a night of great wine and amazing Indian food at this delish spot called Namaste. Tikka masala, tandoori, and naan, oh my! Feeling bloated and content, we settled in at Darbie's house for the Christmas Story. To top it all off, Darbie is an amazing chef/baker/everything and later presented me with Persimmon bread! Never had it before, but I want more!

After dinner, Darbie and I discussed my upcoming volunteer trip to Spain.
I have been trying to prepare myself mentally and emotionally for living in another country. Adapting to a different culture, way of life, and routines will be interesting and challenging, however, I know this is all part of the learning experience. I have never had to rely on public transportation so that will definitely take some getting used to also. I am nervous, but hopeful. As I mentioned before, living in another country is something I have always wanted to do. I can't believe I have the opportunity to do it!

I have talked to a few people who are currently part of the program and individuals who have completed the Geovisions Conversation Corps program. I received great tips and feedback. All in all, most of the individuals I spoke to enjoyed their experience. Some individuals, however, were surprised at how lonely they got. Another individual was upset about being in a small suburb where the bus service stopped at 11 p.m which prohibited the nightlife experience during the week.

Either way, I don't mind because I don't stay out late during the week much. I will be out traveling on the weekends. I also plan on taking day classes so I can meet the locals and make friends. And the last reason I don't mind is, I am in another country, this is part of the whole cultural experience! If I wanted it to be like the United States, I would just stay home.

After Darbie and I finished our conversation,she told me she may possibly come out there to explore with me a week early. Goody goody gumdrops! Any other takers????

In the meantime, I'm going to grab myself another piece of Darbie's "homemade heaven" and brush up on my beer pong skills!