¡Hola! ¿Como esta?

When I was in Guatemala this past summer I was so frustrated by my inability to speak the Spanish language. I felt quite vulnerable to not be able to understand or be understood. I couldn’t get very far with the phrases of Spanish that I did know. I can say the weather is cold (not really helpful since most Spanish speaking countries have a fairly moderate climate). I can say I don’t like to swim (again, not super helpful since I actually DO like to swim). I resolved then and there that I would learn Spanish.

When I returned home I began to investigate opportunities to learn Spanish. Since I had about 57 cents in my budget available to be redirected to the learning of another language my options were limited. Finally, I discovered the library loaned copies of Rosetta Stone. Happily, I put my name on the waiting list. The library system told me I was patron 357 in line. Awesome. That would only take about forever. But I’ve been patiently waiting my turn for the last five months.

In the mean time, I’ve been picking up bits of Spanish here and there. I watched Dora the Explorer with my three-year-old and learned how to say I’m hungry. There’s a helpful phrase. Although if I can offer a suggestion to Dora; it may more helpful if you could teach us to say: “I’m hungry! Could I have something that has been cooked to an internal temperature of 180 degrees for a period of several minutes?”

Last week the library e-mailed me regarding my Rosetta Stone request. Apparently Rosetta Stone has changed their licensing agreement and that change left the library unable to continue loaning copies of the program. Gracias por nada, Rosetta Stone.

Thank heavens for Go, Diego, Go! Today we are learning to say “Jump”. I’ll be fluent before I know it.