My first sight here in the DR was a beautiful sunset. If only all the rest of my night was all that pleasant. My once checked bag was left in Miami, then my host family—although a very sweet family—spoke almost no English, and of course, I speak no Spanish.
Tired and hungry and pretty uncomfortable Melissa and I awkwardly sat in the living room with two of the family’s amigos – Julio and Royberra (sp?). Since neither party could speak much of the same language we struggled through a few things like…
-Do you have a boyfriend.
-What is your job?
-Where do you live?
Ana, our host mom, had books about Wisconsin, Oklahoma, St. Louis and a catalogue from IKEA.
It was awkward but I was determined to try –at least for a while, then it was bedtime.
As I was going to bed I got some text from Pine, who also called my parents for me. It all made me a little emotional and homesick – especially on top of being exhausted and hungry… but it was good to have a little communication with home and to get rest.
This morning is much better. There were roosters crowing as I woke up, hot coco and bread for breakfast and I was much more rested.
It is still difficult to communicate and I left my Spanish phrase book at home – instead I packed my Caribbean food book – which is a good read, but doesn’t help me communicate. Maybe my roommates can learn Spanish while I am gone ;)
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