We are plugging away at language school. It is hard to believe that we have been at it for almost 3 full months! The language has most definitely been the hardest thing in our process of adjusting to our life here in Bolivia. Not only does it complicate all matters when it comes to normal daily activities, but the language learning process has at times been discouraging and draining. It seems like the more you learn about the language, the more you realize how far you really are at being able to speak correctly. We are currently going through a period in our learning, where grammatically we are progressing, but verbally we are taking a step back. Mostly because we know more now, and it's difficult when you are trying to not only get your point across to someone, but you are also trying to choose your words so you speak correctly!
We are fortunate in that the program that John will be working with for FH will not be starting until Jan 15th. That means we will have time to take an extra month of language school than we had originally thought! This is a great blessing for us, even though there is a part of us that would just like to be done with the classes and homework! We do recognize that it is a great opportunity and valuable for our ministry.
I don't want to make language school sound like a total drag! We do get to do some pretty fun activities and meet some interesting people. We have gotten to meet people from all around the world, other missionaries and a LOT of students and young folks who are traveling around South America for fun. Because our school is for language study and cultural study we have had the opportunity to see some of the cultural museums around town, taste some of the Bolivian food, and visit other historical areas in Sucre.
Last week I (Jennie) got to visit the one and only "castle" in Bolivia. Back in the 1800's there was a very wealthy couple who lived in Sucre. They decided to adopt poor children in the area and give them a good education. Overall they ended up adopting over 50 children. They build a "castle", each room having influence from different countries - mostly different European designs. There is even a small replica of Big Ben. Eventually they were given the title "Prince and Princess of Bolivia" even though they held no political power.
Here are some of the pictures from that day:
Entrance to the Castle
Tower for star watching. When you are climbing up to the top, it seems ALOT higher. My legs were not quite the same for a few days afterwards.
View of the gardens from the tower.
1 comment:
Cool pics!! Keep at the language, I'm sure it will start clicking soon. As they say in Japan: Gambatte! (Battle on, you can do it!) Or, my personal favorite: Fight-o!
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