Home-Away-From-Home

Never in a million years did I think living in a strange country, in an apartment room 1/3 the size of mine at home, with host parents I barely know, would be something I'd be enjoying by my sixth day in Argentina. I am so, SO happy to report, though, that Maria Inés and Gerardo have proved that assumption to be completely false. In wondering about my host family before I arrived here, two of my main concerns were, as laughing is such a key component of my family dynamic at home, that a) I'd have a hard time conveying my sense of humor due to the language barrier, and that b) regardless of my capability to hacer chistes, they wouldn't think I'm funny (hard to imagine, I know...). Though they only speak a few words of English (or so they say -- according to Gerardo, his vocabulary is limited to "Happy birthday!"), I've found that they have a great sense of humor -- the first of many components that have made me feel so at "home" already.

Apparently, the Coyegos think I'm a good fit too, as they're not afraid to joke with me about my first day here. They tell me how I seemed so nerviosa, and how I nodded my head and said "sí," even when they knew I didn't understand what they were saying... which I must admit, was probably pretty humorous to them. They really have made my learning Spanish a priority, though, and have told me that they'll gladly repeat anything más despacio so I can better understand them.

I met all of Inés' family 2 nights ago when they came over for a belated celebration of her birthday. While it was a bit overwhelming to meet a dozen new people who don't speak my language and, in turn, be expected to contribute to their conversations, I really enjoyed their company and felt like I kept up with the dialogue surprisingly well, for my third day here. I was really encouraged, too, when her mom, daughter, and sister -- all having met her previous homestay students -- told me my Spanish was better than any of the others. Inés has since told me that both my speaking and understanding have improved even since then; whoever said immersion was the best way to fluency apparently knew what he was talking about!

Though my first few days here have been incredible, I'll readily admit, it has been really hard being away from my family since I found out Nina (my maternal grandmother) passed away on Sunday night. But while I wouldn't wish that news upon anyone, dealing with everything has really been okay. Inés and Gerardo have been far more comforting and understanding than I ever could've expected. Even after skipping dinner last night (due both to having eaten only a few hours earlier and to simply not feeling emotionally up to brain-exhaustive, translate-every-word conversation), Inés brought me a plate of apple torta and helado. She said she knew that something dulce would make me feel better... She already knows me so well! Her making an effort to check on me (and bringing me dessert) was further indication that I really can have a home-away-from-home here; I hope someday my Spanish is good enough to tell her just how much it meant to me.
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Besides getting to know my host parents, I have spent the past several days exploring, both with the group and by myself, and have seen so much of the city already. I've gotten lost... well, several times -- I like to call them "growth experiences"... but in doing so have made a great mental map of Buenos Aires! I've figured out the subte (subway) and colectivo (bus) systems, have found & joined a local gimnasio, and have already found a great pair of botas de cuero. What can I say? I love this place!!

I am looking forward to starting normal classes tomorrow and, as promised, will be posting pictures very soon. In the meantime, please pray that I'll continue to become more comfortable with my host parents, that I will enjoy this city more with each experience, and that I will rely more fully upon the Lord with each day that passes. Though I miss my family greatly and wish I could be there for Nina's funeral, I know I am here for a reason and am praying that this time away will be full of growth and a better knowledge of the incredible sovereignty of God.

"...but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
- Romans 5:3-5

Love from abroad,
Margaret