Midterms

Spanish word of the day: estudiar. To study.

Today marks the first day of significant studying. Mañana, the 4th of July, I have two difficult midterms to take. Unfortunately, that means this afternoon and evening will consist of reading, making flashcards, reading some more, and jotting little notes. One test is over Spanish grammar & phrases, and the other Spanish history. I’m looking forward to the trip to the water park tomorrow after the tests. :)

My cousin Matt is in Greece right now, having the time of his life. It’s cool because even though we’re in different countries, we’re sharing this unique and life-defining trip together. I read today in his blog that he loves the unhurried culture and the sense of calmness he feels in Greece. My heart resounds so much with that. As I’ve had time to settle into this Spanish way of life, I feel an overwhelming sense of peacefulness and contentment. Life is much slower here, and people are not so anxious. I cherish it so much, and wish you could all visit—especially my college peers. I wish I could stay longer, but I absolutely plan to return.

Today, after a delicious almuerzo of pollo (chicken), Spanish vegetable soup, vegetable salad, and bread, I talked with Maria Jose for about 20 minutes. I enjoy her so much! It was exciting today, because we were able to communicate very well with each other. And for once I didn’t just sit there and say, “si, si” or “vale- yo entiendo!”, but instead I spoke whole sentences and paragraphs back to her. :) She is so sweet, and I wish I could stay with her longer, learn Spanish better, and have more conversations with her!

Yesterday the girls and I ventured to el centro to go shopping! The day was quite successful :) We bought mostly gifts for friends and family, while sneaking a few things for ourselves. I got some really cute black and white heels, although unfortunately they won’t work very well for student teaching. Shoot. :) The shops were absolutely chaos, however. The many people reminded me of shopping the day after Thanksgiving! This is normal though, for sale days throughout the summer. One of my favorite things about this area of Seville is the musicians that play along the cobblestone streets. Yesterday listened to the notes of a violinist and a guitar player—playing Flamenco, of course. It sets the mood for a perfectly serene place.

At the request of my dear friend Sara, I have prayer requests to share with you! As I was reading my bible the other day, and my brain was trying to translate the English scriptures into Spanish, I thought about how cool it is that God hears every single language. Although I am far away from my supportive spiritual community, I can feel God’s presence strong here, and He finds loud ways to speak to me. :)
Please pray for:
*My continual pursuit of the Lord
*My eyes to be open for ways God is working here (It’s difficult to see in a culture so different than I’m used to)
*Safety in travels throughout Seville, Spain, and surrounding countries
*Money to come back here again and bring you all! :)

I love you all and am so thankful for your encouragement! May blessings pour all over you.

Las calles de el centro.

(The streets of downtown)