Week 2

Monday, I signed up for German lessons which should hopefully make this whole situation easier for me. Not that I'm complaining now, but it would be nice to understand what the subway signs say or be able to order for myself in a restaurant. I  have never lived anywhere so confusing. Washington DC is a big city, but at least I can read a subway map there. I know a lot of people speak English but I feel so arrogant assuming that I will be understood when I speak in English. I can't wait to be able to speak with Ian, he is hilarious and I just wish we could say more to each other than "hello" "goodnight" and "thank you." 

 

I took the bus by myself for the first time today! I know, it sounds a little silly that I'm proud of myself for that, but its the little accomplishments, like the first time I was able to talk to Ian,that are getting me through these first few weeks. Maybe tomorrow I'll try for the bus and the subway... 

Alma and I met Braco and Ian for lunch at Natsmarkt again today. There is really nothing like Natsmarkt. I only saw half of it the first time I went, and was impressed then. I have a feeling I'll be there for lunch a lot while I'm here. After lunch, we walked around downtown. Vienna is such a beautiful city,  I wake up somedays and I can't believe I'm actually here.  I walk downtown and see the Opera or the beautiful Parliament building and I have to remind myself that I still get to spend 2 months here. This isn't a vacation... It's my life, for now anyways. I love sightseeing with Alma and Braco and Ian because it's almost like I'm a local. I don't have to awkwardly study a map or ask where anything is. I have my own personal tour guides. And I always get an ice cream cone at the end of the day :) Ian really loves his ice cream. 

Sunday, I'll finally get to meet someone my age. She is the daughter of Braco's boss/friend.  Alma and Braco are wonderful, but I'm excited for someone my age to talk to and do things with. So we'll see what the next week brings. Auf Wiedersehen!