Serbia... and German Lessons

This past  weekend, I was lucky enough to venture to Novi Sad, Serbia. I went with Alma, Ian, Alma's friend Edna (who is Serbian) and her two children. The 6 of us left late Thursday night and after an exhausting 8 hour bus we arrived. Friday morning, we walked around the old fortress in town. This fortress is the sight for the famous Exit Music Festival, which unfortunately, we missed by a week. But, still we got a beautiful view of the city and the river. It was about 100 degrees, making it unbearable to be in sun during the afternoon, so the 6 of us, along with Edna's mom spent the afternoon relaxing in her air conditioned apartment. The 4 of us sat around and talked while the little ones played in the next room. 

Saturday, we took the kids to an indoor playground, which they loved, and then went window shopping. We were lucky enough to get some rain, so it wasn't so hot. I made great friends with Leon, Edna's oldest son who is 6. He can speak English, so we got along immediately, playing rock paper scissors countless times. This made Ian a little jealous I think, so he started to warm up to me a little. 

Saturday night was quite an adventure. Alma and I went out with Edna's friends from when she lived in Novi Sad. Oddly enough, Edna and I wound up wearing the same dress, so we spent the night trying to avoid standing next to each other. It was kind of funny. 

Sunday, we had another 8 hour bus ride, this time even more exhausting. You were allowed to smoke in the back of the bus, which made for an unpleasant ride once the air conditioning broke. But we all made it back. 

I've been in German lessons the last 3 weeks. They are okay. I'm learning the basics, and I've made a few friends, which is good. One guy, Robert, is actually from Colorado. Finally, a friend to see all of the sights with. 

Slowly, the summer is coming to an end. I can't believe I have less than 3 weeks left here. Some days it feels like I've only been here a few short days. I can't believe that I've become accustomed to a whole new way of life. Everything from the way you hold your fork to the people's over all attitude is different here. It was a bit of a culture shock at first, but now I much of the differences feel natural to me. I love Europe and it's been absolutely wonderful for me. I wonder how I've changed. What will stick with me? Will it be hard to adjust back to live in America? Will I notice differences in myself? I think I already have...