Interversity.Org

On Friday Jim left to fly home with some apprehension on my part since I would be on my own with poco Espanol at my command. Getting to the bus to go to Guadalajara was a piece of cake! Gave me more confidence than I have. Taking a "deluxe" bus, an ETN, was the best advice I received. Since most of the Mexican drivers think they are Kamakazi pilots, it was a safe and comfortable journey.

I got to my family by taxi and have found them to be quite cordial. They, however, are not as patient with non-Spanish speakers as I had hoped. Two college girls occupied on a school program occupied another bedroom and helped me a bit, but since they are leaving with their group today, I am truly on my own.

Lydia and Francisco are both 67 years old and often retire to their bedroom to watch television and movies so there is little interaction with opportunities for me to practice speaking. Since this is the intent of the homestay program, I am a bit dismayed but hope to see what develops this week. Their own family is quite impressive. The three siblings all work for a local college; one daughter teaching economics, the second daughter teaches some aspect of law, and the son works in marketing. One son-in-law is a lawyer and travels a great deal, and has been in northern Minnesota several times. He says he works with real estate. Northern Minnesota? Go figure! Apparently they all visit F & L every Sunday. Perhaps I'll learn more later.