Days 1 and 2

Hola!
I am in Madrid!
Just an update on the past few days :)
I had great flights to Chicago and to Madrid.  I was unable to sleep on either flight so by the time I arrived in Madrid I was very tired and unfortunately it was 7:30 am so I had a long day ahead of me.  I was taken by van  to my host family. My host mother is a 53 year old woman who cares for her 86 year old mother.  I was told I would have a student from another university staying with me but that's not the case. I am the only student here.  At first I was pretty sad that I would be alone with my host family, but I think it will work out just fine. I have a very large room with a balcony and internet! The apt. is located in Old Madrid and it's very close to 3 main subway ("metro") stations. My trip to school takes about 25 minutes.  I walk to the Metro Lista and ride the subway for about 15 minutes and then I walk to my school (Don Quixote) from there.

My first day consisted of a placement exam, which went very well,  and then a walking tour around the city, not for tourist purposes but  more to become familiar with the city.  Then I went out for some tapas and a coke with some friends and returned to Don Quixote for class.  I have class from 1:00-7:00 pm everyday.  (Somehow I was placed with a few other students in the afternoon classes. )  I then headed home for dinner and some homework.  I was also able to talk to my Michael :) and skype with my Mama.  I am missing my family and Michael very much, but I know these 6 weeks will fly and I'm going to do everything in my power to soak it all up. I was also able to skype Grandma and Grandpa (and Alex).  Its so nice to hear from people at home.

Also, The food here is wonderful, my host mom can cook!

I was worried that I would not be able to communicate well with the Spanish speakers but I am doing just fine! It is actually a lot of fun being able to talk to them and have them actually understand me! It makes everything worth while.
The culture shock was not too bad.  I am adjusting to the 6 hour time difference pretty well and everyone here has been very nice.

while typing this, two girls from Baltimore came in and are staying here for a week! I had no idea they were coming and I am so glad they did!!

So far I would say Madrid will be an awesome experience and my knowledge of Spanish will grow MUCHO! And the people I am here with from UC and other schools are so great!

Thank you everyone for the prayers and emails.  You have no idea how much it means to be.  I am blessed to have so many wonderful and loving people in my life.

I will be updating every few days with photos and info!!

Have a great night!
Much love,
Jessica <3