What's been happening in Spain

So, this week was kinda interseting.. I went to the mall with my other exchange student friend, Emily, to return some stuff and buy some new stuff. We had really really good icecream afterwards! Yesterday, we met up and searched for that place I went and I got my haircut the first time.. It took us forever to find, but when we did it was already closed for the afternoon. It would open again at 4:30, so we decided to go eat.. We ended up going to a Romanian place, the food was delicious! We met the owners, the were really nice and spoke English.. The wife speaks five languages! How cool is that!! We then got our haircuts, and headed to Nina's to talk about Rotary business. Emily ended up coming over to finally see where I live, and she stayed for dinner.. I have to say, that Romanian food is just as good as what my Host Mom is cooking now a days. That's all for now.. Chao!

Halloween and More!

Last Saturday night I went out with my friends to the Max Lounge. It was really fun, most of them dressed up, though I did not! It was really cool to see how they do our holiday. I brought Wonka candy with me and they loved it.. Like some exchange students told me last year the kids are amazed with the Wonka candy, they didn't know it was actually real! That is really what those exchange students to me, it's not a lie! On Sunday, I did end up going Trick or Treating!! It was fun to do an American tradition here.. The candy wasn't as good, in fact someone gave me chestnuts! They really love them here! Some of the homes in my friend's development belonged to people that spoke English, so I would say something strange in English to them.. oh the joy! We did not have school Monday due to All Saints Day! I went for lunch at Nina's house (A woman from Rotary), we had some type of food... I can't remember what kind... When I know, I'll write it in.. It was really good though! Greg and I were given wallets for our birthdays, they each had 5 Euros in them, that would mean we would always have money... Graciela (Another woman from Roatry) came and we chatted about whatever.. We talked more about Sevilla.. That is where I am going this weekend with Roatry, it should be fun.  Not too much on Tues., you know the norms. Wednesday, I went to a Rotary lunch. The food was delicious as always! No school today, I'm sick,  just studying Italian and French.. That's about it.. Chao!

The new and exciting things of Spain.

I quit volleyball Tues... That was very difficult for me, I don't like quitting, but I had to do it.. Vollyball just was not for me.... On Wednesday, I left school early to go to a Roatry meeting. It went well as always (The food is always GREAT). On Thursday I did a lot of running around with my Host Mom after school.. We tried to get me French lessons, but that didn't happen. There were no spots open.. I really want a canery now... We'll see if I actually get one, it really depends if I can take it back home with me.

I didn't go to school today because I went to the school my Host Mom works at for "El Día de las Castañas" (The Day of the Chestnuts). It was fun, I saw her school, met her students, and ate chestnuts!! They were roasted!! That's pretty much it for now.. Halloween is almost here.. I am going out with friends to the MAX Lounge tomorrow to celebrate, and on Halloween I think I am going out with some other friends to celebrate.. I'll let you know how it all goes. Chao.

I almost forgot!! Today I went and picked up a package from the post office since no one was home to get it yesterday. Thanks Meme!!
-Sean

Where did I leave you..

Starting with Saturday.. Woke up early  and did whatever... I went out with my friends like at 10:30 that night. We went to the MAX Lounge, it was fun. Some of us went to my friend, Leonard's house afterwards. Our friend, Pedro drove most of us home, it was some time after 2. It's nice finally having friends! Sunday- An at home day for the part.. I went out for coffee with another exchange student in the area, Emly. We are not now planning a trip to France! I ended up Skypeing... real late... and I didn't feel well... So, I didn't go to school on Mon., but rather stayed home. I studied whatever and worked on the contacting people for the trip. Tuesday- Went to school.. Living life... Writing to my fans NOW! That's all. Chao!

-Sean

What's new..

I've felt pretty crummy all week, so it's been a pretty fun week as you could guess.. I have a stuffy nose, my throat was hurting me, I had a headache, and for some starnge reason my TEETH were sore!!  I haven't gone to vollyball this week due to this VIRAL PLAGUE! Just went to school and suffered (though it seemed like lots of the kids at school were as ill as me, I just like to complain). I didn't have school on Friday beacuse I had to go to the police station and do stuff for my visa because my Host Mom had to work. Afterwards, I walked around Estepona looking for cloths... I left without a single bag.... Wait! I did go to a bakery, so it was fine, I ate a Palmera Chocolate... I don't know how to explain, just that it was delicious.  After coming home and that nonsense, we ate and some time after 4 my Host Mom brought me to the mall to get some cloths for the winter. I scoped out every store then went back and did the purchases.. I had time to kill - my Host Mom and her friend had some class to take near by and would not get me till 8:20..  I decided to go to a cafe, I had coffee with milk and churros!! The churros were great as always, but I don't know what it is about the coffee here, it is actually good. My Host Mom came and got me, went home, ate, and I headed to my room................ I was trying to call multiple people, but no one answered... YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE! I finally called my friend Marissa and talked to her. My friend ended up inviting me to see Paranormal Activity 2, I didn't see that coming.. I went, it was very good. I still need to see the first one!  Got home at 2 something, then went to bed....   Chao.

-Sean

Day of relaxation.

I have been to the fair either everyday or night since Friday! It was great, I made lots of friends!!Oh, and I took a taxi twice! On Fraiday I get alittle sick from the rides, and deicided no more rides for me. The only thing that I would go back on were the bumper cars! I have to say though, my knees really hurt after awhile. I didn't remember that pain from when I was younger... then agian, I wasn't as tall. Up to now it has just been a blast, up late, sleeping late, ang hanging out with good friends! I didn't go to school yesterday because there were not many kids going. Today we had off for a holiday of San Pedro! I stayed home and didn't go to the fair, I needed to rest before school and would have to come home early anyway. That's all for now.. School tomorrow! Chao!

-Sean

The Fair is here!

So the last few days have been normal.. Yesterday, I didn't feel so well, so my Host Mom gave me some medicine. All better now! We have had COLD mornings and nights here! Sometimes it even stays chilly throughout the day. I like this weather, but I just don't feel like I have the right cloths.. I see the mall in future! Yesterday started the Fair! I didn't go, but tonight I'll be there! I'll let you know how it goes!! Chao!

-Sean

Thank Spain for all their days off!

Not school! It was a big day for Spain, so we got the day off. They celebrated Colobus discovering America and that jazz. I just relaxed at home, studied, went a walk with my Host Mom and the dog.. I ate walnuts... That's interesting, right? They were like cooked in a frying pan, yum! I made a friend on the computer doing my languages from Bask country, it is in the northern part of Spain.. Not too much else... I ate as always and studied... Chao!

-Sean

P.S.  I decided to add German to my languages to learn!!!!

Oh and it's Monday!

I didn't have to walk home because my host day didn't have to go to work.. Spain is always giving days off.. I just studied and studied... I ate, and moved forward with  the studies! I can't wait to see how this turns out! Almost all of the pictures are up... Not too much else... Ciao.

-Sean

Sunda Oh Sunday

Another day at home day in Spain... I did the normal rutine.... Ate, t.v., studies, you know, that fun stuff.. I tried uploading pictures to Facebook... It didn't wok out too well.... I only got a fraction of the bonsais up, and none of Marbella... I'll try again! I STARTED A NEW PROJECT. You know how I am taking French at school, well I have decided to intensen the study at home! That's not the only language, Italian and I am going to start up Japanese again!! Oh the fun that is only just beginning.  There was lots of studying happening... Dinner.. Some more studying.. Oh, and I have been talking to people throughout Europe, we help each other with the language(s) that we are learning or desire to learn. Chao.

The Rain In Spain..

SATURDAY
It was a very dark and rainy day here in Spain.. As you may have guessed, it was a at home day.. I learned how to cook some new things! The rain did stop here Spain, and that is when the day started. I found this museum on the computer and asked my Host Mom if we could go, she said YES! We left at 5, and started the day! The museum we went to was called "Museo Bonsai" (Bonsai Museum), it was so awsome! The little trees are amazing, there were so many! There was one that was 500 years old! Because we were in Marbella, we decided to walk around seeing that I never have before. It was just as amazing as the Bonsai Museum! I ate Churros and chocolate!!!! They were delicious!! We walked around and saw churches, statues, a park, and much more... Rather than telling you about everything, I figured I would just show you the pictures! We got home at nine, I ate, went to bed at 12.. Chao!

-Sean

Thursday and Friday!

The same old jazz. I showed up at vollyball practice an hour early, so I had two hours of practice that night.. I then didn't feel like waiting for the bus, so I ran home... It was longer than I thought.. Ate, then bed..

FRIDAY!
That run home was a mistake, I could still feel it through my whole body. The pain.. School.. Home. Ate. BACK TO SLEEP! Vollyball at 7:30, I got their late because my Host Dad had the car. Got home, ate, watched some t.v., homework.. BED. Chao!

-Sean

Half way through the week!

Nothing other than the normal rutine... I came home and did some homework. I went on a walk with my Host Mom and the dog... Studied, watched some t.v. , read, fell asleep! I woke up around nine and ate with my family... After taking, showering and such, I headed to bed.. Chao.

-Sean

Tuesday!

Did I get you with the exclamtion point? Well, it was a normal day for me.. School, eating, homework, the works! I took the bus to vollyball, then went to the mall with my Host Mom to purchase a phone! It only cost 9 Euro with 6 mins. on it, so really only was 3 Euros! We went home, I showered, ate, and went to bed! Chao!

~ Thanks to everyone that have given me any adivise on the trip so far, it's much appreciated!

-Sean

And It was LONG Monday...

It was just boring, long, and a tipical Monday.. I came home walking, ate, did homework, and not too much else. My Host Mom and I took a walk with the dog.. Other than that I stayed home.. I talked on the computer, watched some t.v., and talked to Mallori! WAIT! BIG NEW FOR EVERYONE!   I will no longer be on Facebook, Oovoo, nor Skype.. I need to try living in Spain, and not living in New Jersey through the computer screen from my room in Spain.. I will be back to the those things soon, but till then I'll be off..  I will keep the blog updated though! Chao for now!

-Sean

Sunday

It was a very calm day here in Spain.. I ate, did homework, went on a walk.. Just stayed home, did some stuff on the computer, skyped here and there.. My Host Mom wasn't here for dinner, so I ate only with my Host Dad... I did whatever till she got home. I ended up watching t.v., and now I think I have found a show to watch here! She go home, then I headed to bed.  Chao.

-Sean

Saturday

I went to the market with my councilor in the morning.. It was okay, not too intersting. We met my Host Parents at the mall and ate lunch. We then rushed on home because I had plans with my friends.. We met at 4:45 to catch the bus to go to Puerto Banús to celebrate our friend's birthday. We went to the movies and saw "Híncame el Diente" (Vampires Suck), it was intesting in Spanish, though I never saw it in English. After we went to eat at Mc. Donald's, it was basically the same, but I didn't get sick for once! We then just walked the mall (El Corte Inglés), then went for ice cream!  Other than that we walked around, and left like at 11:30. One of our friends had to leave, but the rest of us hung out in San Pedro.. Went home like at 12 something.. Bed at 1ish...

-Sean

Finally Friday!

Just another normal day here... I came after school and ate, but our neighbor Monica joined us... I did some homework, then got ready for vollyball. I took the bus there, which I barely made! It is a good think I put on my shoes insted of sandles because I had to starting running as soon as I saw the bus! Thankfully I caught the bus, for what exactly you may ask? Not too sure.. Practice was suppose to be at 6:30.. But it was changed to 5:30, and I wasn't told.. I practiced for like 30 minutes, then headed home. I went on a walk afterwards and talked to Oovooed Andrea.. I bumped into Monica and she asked me to ask my Host Mom for "American Tape", so I did.. Well, my Host Mom insisted in was "Metric Tape" that she wanted, so that is was she gave me... She was wrong, I ended up bringing some home to show her.. It didn't do too good anyway, because we did not have it.. Afterwards, we ate dinner with Monica and her friend who was helping her at the home she was leaving behind (she moved to Italy) . We finished eating, and all you heard was Skype from my computer upstairs.. I was going to let it be, but they told me to answer it just in case it was Gulio (Monica's son), well it was not. It was Mrs. Fritz, I ended up talking to her till I went to sleep.. Chao.

-Sean

Just a normal day in Spain.

THURSDAY
You know the start... That iPhone has now passed :(    My Host Mom and I went to question cell phone companies about plans and such.. I was tempted to get an iPhone, but I did not nor did I get a phone at all. Very soon I will have one!  We stopped at the store to pick up lunch for Friday, and home went. We ate, I showered, and such things. I Skyped my friend Matt and Linda! SLEEP was calling, so to bed I went!

-Sean

Wednesday = NO SCHOOL!

So, there was some teacher strike or something.. Good for me beacause my Host Mom had me stay home. I slept till like 9:30 and later on the neighbor came over with his friend. Around 1:30ish I was picked up for a Rotary lunch, it went well. I got home lime a 5 something.. I took a walk with my Host Mom and Leo, then went to the mall. We had to go talk to some guy about cellphones.. I can use my iPhone here if I have it unlocked and if I fix this one button.. I tried fixing the button, and it brought more problems.. Now, I cannot get the phone back together.. That phone just loves causes issues, trying to take it apart I cut both my thumbs! Well, I still have no phone, but soon.  I ate dinner, attempted to fix it again, then passed out on my bed..

-Sean

Another fun day.

Normal beginning... Came home and ate... Did homework, studied, the normal rutine.. I found out that tomorrow there is like a protest thing, and many of the teachers may not be at school, they gave us a paper, and I gave it to my Host Mom. I went vollyball, that was fun. I was told by my Host Mom that I would not be going to school tomorrow! But I would be going to a Rotary meet at 2ish, which is fine with me. My Host Mom bought my English and French workbooks! More fun!! I got home and now continued because I then had my book. The old neighbors stopped in to visit, only Monica, and her son, Stefano, was down from college.. We ate, and Stefano brought me to where Graciela (A woman from Rotary) would be picking me up... Not too much more.. OoVoo with Kylie. Now off to bed... 12:30ish.. Zzz.

-Sean

Not sure...

Normal day in Spain.. School went well.. I like here more today, not too sure why, but I do.. I came home by foot, Hist Mom works late on Monday.. Ate, did some homework, skype, and went on a walk with the dog. Alll went well till, this other dog came out of the blue and kept following us... I was kind freaked out, it was scary looking, and reminded me of a shark.. Home we went.. More studies, some t.v. online.. Dinner.. Then, I confronted my mom about these lizard looking things in the bathroom, in Spanish they are called salamanquesas (geckos) not too harmfull. She said they are fine, they eat the mosquitos, plus they are BEAUTIFUL! I think they should go, but whatever.. Off to shower then bed... 9:30ish..   Chao

-Sean

Happy Sunday!

A very mellow day in Spain... I ate, talked with people, studied!, ate more, watched t.v. for once! and watched a movie on my laptop! Of the fun!! Later on on went on a walk with my Host Mom and Leo.. Ate some more... Oh, an like always, I skyped with Eve, Rosie, and Tiff!!!  10:30 and off to shower and bed I go.

Just one of those days..

Today was boring.. I ate, sat around, did nothing.. I walked the dog, and he did not refuse to come!! I ate pizza for dinner, it was good. Had a good conversation with my Host Mom.. Not too much else. Oh, wait! Skyped with Jordyn! and Liz joined us on a 3 way call! After 1.. Good Night.

-Sean

Fridays are valued everywhere!

Just another average morning.. Got to school in one piece.. Today my Latin teaher and my French were not to be found... Oh well...  I got home, and went to studying.. I had vollyball at 7:30, and had to buy shoes still. My Host Mom and I went off for shoes.. The problems only just begun... 1.5 hours till practice.. At El Corte Inglés nothing for VOLLYBALL, some other place was closed down, La Cañada nothing for VOLLYBALL, so we ended up getting regular athelitc shoes.. Believe me that is only the half of it! It came time to pay and of I was denied... I had no i.d.,and in Spain everyone has i.d... So, my Host Mom paid... Now it is almost 7:30... You guessed it.. I was late.. My Host Mom told the couch and everything was fine.. Practice was okay, still learning... Though, I hope I get better! Came home, ate, talked with my family, showered, Skyped with Liz... After mid-night... I am off to bed.. Chao!

-Sean

And it is now Thursday!

I feel like I say the same thing everyday... So, you know how the day started... When I made it to school, the bus door would not open, that was quite amusing... They got it eventually... Classes were all normal.... Home. I ate, and my Host Mom told me she spoke with someone about me playing vollyball and we would see him tonight...    I studied, talked some more, and left at 6.. I ended up staying for the practice in my normal cloths and shoes until 7:30.. That was interesting.. I did have fun, I am much happier now that I have something else to do.. Though I now need to buy shoes because I don't have shoes for such activites with me.. When I got home, I talked more, Skyped my friend, Christina who is also fron N.J.!  I then ate, and now it is time for bed... Just alittle after 10... Good Night. Chao.

-Sean

Half way through my first week of school!

Sorry to bore you all... But it is just another one of those days... Woke up, ate, school, eating in the hall, home, eat lunch... But, I did not sleep today, so that is new and exciting! I made some phone calls to Southern Regional High School and worked on changing my school schedule here... I studied Spanish, Skyped with my Meme, went on walk and Leo refused to come... Came home.. My Host Mom bought me notebooks! And then I got a suprise call from my councilor.... Enough said.. I showered, ate, now it is off to bed...  Just ten now! Chao!

-Sean

Just another average day..

I woke up like normal and headed to school... Just the normal things happened; class, eating in the hallway, still no Greek teacher.. Some lady came and tested my Spanish skills, it was decided I would stay in normal classes. That was fine with me.. Enlgish was my last class, I got my quiz, pre - test, pr whatever it was back.. I ended up getting two questions wrong.. What a shame.. We just say things differently in the U.S. On the written part she wrote the word to "improve" over where I wrote to "better".. Oh well, what happens, happens.. I came home and ate.. We had American style food! It was like b.b.q. chicken, it was very good.. Then I feel asleep as normal. Woke up, went on facebook, talked with Mrs. Fritz (she gives the best advice if I may say so myself!), and oovooed with Sam... Other than that I was doing some school work and as always studying Spanish. It seems like it is going to be an early night! Nearling 12, and I am off! Good Night!

-Sean

Mondays are the same everywhere..

After 5.5 hours of sleep it was 7 something and time for school... I got ready and ate a yogurt... School was fun, I am undertanding more.. Still it is hard... I don't think the teachers expect me to do anything.. They just look at me normally, and never ask if I need anything.. All and all the day was good. I still need my supplies, and books for school... That would probably make everything easier...Then, I would actually have a book in history and be able to to the work... That is not me complaining or anything... Just saying that, If I fall behind or do poorly, it is not my fault... School ended.. I walked home fromt the bus stop because my Host Mom works late Mondays.. It was only like a 15 min. walk, though it was quite warm today.. I ate once I got home, did somethings online, and took a very long siesta till like 7. So we ate dinner, and were actually done before 9! For desert I had arroz con leche (rice pudding), I had it yesterday too... When my Host Mom offered me it yesterday, I knew it had to be my favorite desert! So when I was offfered it today, I just smiled..  Then I talked with my friend from the bus! At the same I was trying to re-write my sloppy notes I copied from my friend in school.. And, kinda do homework... My teachers don't tell me what to do...   On other note, I talked with my amiga Jordyn, the one who started me Spanish!  Telephone call with Mallori and Skype with Mrs. Klick!  It is nearing 1.... Good Night to all!    

Weekend in Madrid...

This weekend was not a weekend in Madrid at all, but rather a weekend in the outskirts of Madrid on a campus of a university... I was not too excited to go and miss school to begin with, but now it truely seemed pointless.. I woke up Friday at like 8, so I think.. Greg and I ate real fast, got ready and Jorge's parents gave us a ride to the bus station... We're off!    So we thought! Greg forgot is ticket at the house.. That was too bad for him, I was told to get on the bus and go. I got on with another exchange student, and we talked on the bus ride. Greg made it to the next bus stop like an hour later. There was hours, hours, and hours, to go he did not miss much. So more echange students got on, and we all suffered to Madrid. We met some Rotecks (past echchange students) at the bus station, and from there drove like 2 more hours to the universtiy.. When we got there we talked, got rooms, ate, and I then went to bed...

Saturday-

Got up for breakfast at 9.. Then we all echanged our pins and Rotary cards.. Afterwards, meetings, talking and more talking about things we already knew..The application and our Rotary here went over it all. Lunch at 2! We finished during the afternoon and had hours to kill before dinner at 9..  Bascially we all just walked around talking with some friends I went and saw the horses. Lots of time doing nothing... Dinner! Then most of us hung out together seeing it was our last night together... As it became later lots of us went to the basement and avoided the11 curfew.. Rotary did not care at all. At like 1, most of us went back to our rooms. Sleep.

Sunday-

Another early day... Breakfast at 9... At the bus at 10.. We said some good byes for now.. Off we went.. It was just hours and hours of pain and agony... There was a wait somewhere in Madrid for 4 hours.... Some kids went into Madrid and I stayed with the others... We ate our food the university packed us on the lawn.. That was enjoyable, I got to know another person that I did not the days before. I also did end up meeting this lady for Venezuela, and we had an interesting conversation in Spanish.. We did not arrive back to Málaga until 11 at night... We dropped Greg off and returned home.. I ate, showered, unpacked, Skyped, ans then went off to bed at 2.. School was in the morning.. 

Day two of school!

I woke up and it was dark.... Alittle after 7... Eh.    I ate, showered, got ready, and went to the bus stop. The bus was too full so I amlost did not make it on that bus with my neighbor Dani... Luckly two people got off so we then took their place...... School..... I did not know where to go so someone directed to my class.. They found out I was an exchange student when I only mumbled my answer at the teacher... It was French class, and I do not know French.  I made some friends and they showed me around to my classes.. It was time for Greek, but the teacher was not to be found... Oh well, we went to the library instead. I guess it was time to eat because everyone was walking around the halls with food, so I did so as well. Time passed.. Time to go... My neighbor and I waited and waited and waited... Where was the bus, who knows... My neighbor called his dad and I called my Host Mom.. We were waiting with the police... Then, we spotted the bus... We got on and stopped his dad from coming. My Host Mom picked me up at the bus stop... We went home and ate.. It was really good, I we ate something like potato salad, it made me happy. Then I went to sleep... Not for long, my Roatry Cards came and I got them at the door... Back to the siesta.  Once I woke up I started packing for Madrid and ate again.. I oovooed with Jaclyn and Kylie too! Then, I left to Jorge´s house to sleep.. I Skyped with Mia for awhile until she just disappeared... Her computer died, I forgive her. And I skyped with Rosie after midnight here... Zzz  Nearing 2 a.m. Good Night.

First day of school!

I woke up earlier today... to do what exactly, I don't know.. I ate, got ready, took a walk, and waited... There was no normal school bus today, so I had to take the regular bus... I was not sure where to get off so, I called Stefano and asked him.. He said to get off in San Pedro, and that he would bring me to the school from there.. I don't think he believed that I knew where the school was.... I had an idea, but it would have taken me some time to find my way.. So taking the bus was easy, just like in New Jersey. I got off, called Stefano, he came with some people, and we moved on. It would have been a long walk, I was much happier in the car..  He said to call him when I was done.. I was like a half hour early, so I waited outside like all the other kids.. We then moved on in, I read my name on some sheet of paper (Jean, I guess that is my new name).. Even though they let us enter, once we made it to our part of the school they told us to wait... The teachers were not to be found, their fault! Eventually my teacher found me, and brought me up to his class... Everyone that I had encountered just takes me as another kid from Spain... I had a problem understanding what they said... We wrote down our schedules. Some girl gave me a sheet of paper, and another lent me a pencil. The rest of the time I sat there, trying to understand what was being said... That was fun.. Bell rings, time to go!      *Tomorrow, I would say is my real first day.*    Today was from two to three, not a REAL day in my opinion!

I called my Host Mom, she said she would be their in 3 minutes, even though I told her what Stefano said.. Basically we were going to figure it out when she arrived..

I called Stefano, he said he was already home... 

Host Mom arrived, she about Stefano.. I said he is at home.. She just laughed.

We left to home, I explained how I made it to the school from the bus stop. She also reminded me of my meeting that I would leave for some time on Friday (I can not remember the time).. Oh and that I would be missing school, and on Thursday I would stay at Jorge's house and from there go on the bus with the other exchange students to Spain.....  That put me in a bad mood.. I just do not understand why I have to miss school.. As it is school is going to be more difficult, and now I have to make up a day.. It is what is, sure all will work out well.

Home~  We ate, the dog and I went for a walk, I showed Stefano my schedule.... Came home, fell asleep.... Woke up, we ate alittle earlier tonight.. It was after 8 today, we finished at like 9.. Just playing on the computer, the neighbor came over.  Talked with some great people online, and Skyped Liz for like 2 mins. then she came back after she ate dinner, and kinda with Kendall!   That's about it, alittle after 11:30, and I am off to get ready for bed.. Chao.

FYI~ If you are going to eat chorizo, be prepared to have your hand smell like it!! I must have washed my hands twice already, and still they smell... By the time the smell goes away, I will be eating it again..

-Sean

Finally it has been two weeks in Spain!

I woke up at like 9, 10, 10:30, and finally got out of bed when it was nearing 12. I ate, showered, and took the dog for a walk... I ate lunch with my Host Mom at like 3.... She told be if I am not going to talk than neither is she.... So, there was a lot of silence today..... I tried to talk, I just could not... Time just kept passing... I finally starting questioning her about certain words and expressions..... Then I asked her about getting a haircut... She told me about a place..but luckly for me, Stefano told me of a Place in San Pedro. I had to call!! I made the appointment for 6:30.... By that time we had to leave in 45 mins.. We went.. My Host Mom left me there... The guy starts talking to me in Spainsh... I PANICED!! I tried speaking Spanish, but he spoke fast! So he asked me if I spoke English, that solved the problem... I went get my hair washed, all was fine and dandy... I went to get my hair styled and they start talking (The guy and the lady who washed my hair).. She asked if I spoke Spanish and he told her NO. Then he tried explaining to me what they said, and I said, Oh I understood, I can speak Spanish, I am just really nervous.. Finally it was time to pay... It was 9 Euros... I asked the guy, what is a normal tip? He said some people leave nothing, some leave half a Euro, 1 or 2 Euros, but you do not have to. So, I left 2 Euros! Oh, by the way the guy told me that I have really good hair, but I hear that all the time so it was not a big deal haha. I went outside to wait, the guy saw me and told me to come in, so I did.. I have to say he gave me the best haircut ever... Sorry Sue he beat you... Then my Host Mom showed me where I would catch the school bus in the Morning and such.. where to walk, what way, blah, blah, blah.... Stopped at the pharmacy.... Home.... The neighbor came over and informed us of the time school will be starting.... At 2 p.m., it is more of informative day, not too much work.. Then we ate, just the 3 of us... More relaxing... Off to bed, only alittle after 11....

F.Y.I ~ Photos of my life in Spain are up on Facebook!

-Sean
 

Mondays aren't liked anywhere

Today I woke up, and it was almost 2.. Late nigtht of Skypeing! I ate, showered, and big suprise... I went on a walk as always! I called my grandparents too, they kept me company for the day. I also spoke with Gail Johnson, whom I haven't spoken with in like a year. It is nice to talk to people after so much time. My Host Mom came home and made lunch at like 3, then she left back to work... I was all alone, like always. My Host Parents returned from work like at 7ish...  I just sat around till dinner.. Another suprise for you, Stefano came to eat  (We had empandas, yum).. Finally something fun, Skype with Liz (AKA Skype Sunglass Buddy)! Suprise Skype call from Dear Cousin (Krystina)! It is time for bed, it's nearing 1. Chao.
-Sean

Sunday Funday in Spain!

I woke up after 12, and started another day. I ate breakfast and went to the pool with Jorge and Greg before the b.b.q we were going to. It was close enough that we walked there. There was a whole table of kids we met (more friends!). The two girls who lived at the house basically made the food that we ate, I was fine with that. We hung for the day and just did whatever. I listened to a lot of Spanish, my listening skills are getting better with these natives. So like at 7 we left, and Jorge's parents gave me a ride home.. I then Skyped people, went on a walk..... Then, I ate with Tiff, Eve, and Rosie like the good old days, just another Sunday Funday With Rosie And Friends for Me! I went to sleep at like 5, it was worth it.

-Sean

Now it's Saturday!

So, I can't quite remember what I did........ Thinking..... I REMEMBER!! I woke up, ate... Hung out at home, played on the computer... Ate lunch with everyone at like three.. Greg was still here. We decided to go to the Mall (La Cañada). We met our friend, Jorge there (Greg's Host Brother).. Greg and I walk around for awhile before he arrived.. We were amazed by the prices for things, and how cheap everything was in the U.S. Well, I was on a mission! I wanted one pair of jean shorts.... So, when Jorge arrived the two of the went bowling, and I continued to hunt. Finally, I found a store that sold them. They olny cost like 18 Euros, not too bad. I had a lot of trouble reaching the shorts, and no one offered to help me. Upon paying, I ran into an issue, I tried using a American Express gift card, but it did not work.... So, I just paid in cash. After, we waited for Jorge's bus to come then we left.. Oh and we made plans to go out later. 

Now we are home - We were getting ready to eat and guess who showed up.. Stefano, his girl friend and her sister. Greg, Stefano, and I talked about school, and they told me how hard it is, and how I am going to fail.. What words of encouragement! So, Greg and my Host Dad finished eating but I didn't start till Stefano left to eat at his own home. Finished eating... We then got ready to go... Stefano yet again showed up, we gave them a ride to somewhere... Now, Greg and I were dropped of at Jorge's and from there we hung out in San Pedro. We met a lot of cool people and had a good time.. I think we got home like at 3 (I spent the night at Jorge's like we planed earlier).... Sleep...

-Sean

Some fun!

Yesterday I went to a lunch and met Greg's host brother Jorge.. We ate at his grandparent's home, which is huge! There was a library! His grandparents own most of San Pedro or something.. So, after that Greg and I went back to my house.. We walked to the beach and just hung out of at home.. Other than that we ate and I skyped as always! Early night for me, oh well.

-Sean

Let's see..

So, it was just another normal day for me.. Showered, ate, talked, blah, blah.. My other friend from Rotary did not end coming, but instead he would come the next day. I hung out with my friend Luis for alittle while.. I gave him some American candy, he was amazed by the taste! We walked around and did stuff, then he left.. Later on, my Host Mom and I went for a walk with the neighbors dog. We walked by this golf club place and the dog got all wet, and he had us waiting for probably 20 mins. because he was trying to get a cat.. Afterwards, I went back to the dogs house and I waited there because he was wet and he was to come back with us. ( This is dog belongs to the neighbors that moved, their son ( Stefano) is home but I said I would take care of him.. Soon we are going to take him completly once Stefano goes to college.. After all that waiting, I went home and was told Stefano was coming to join us for dinner. He came, ate, and invited me over to me his friend, Martina and to play cards. They came back over like at midnight and we went back to his house. We played cards, and eventually another friend came over (Angel).. I ended up leaving alittle after 5....  Oh, and don't let me forget to mention, I Skyped and Oovooed as normal before and after I went out haha.When I got home, I crashed.. Zzzz.

-Sean

Just another Wednesday in Spain.

So.... I woke up around 10:30, and went back to SKYPEING...   I talked to some people here and there... At 2 I had to be at a Rotary meeting. So, my Host Mom came from work, and we went.. I met this other kid from Florida named Greg (Fianlly another friend!). He was wearing his Roatry blazer, and where was mine....? Well, it was in the closet.. I went in shorts, a t-shirt, and flip flops. What they must think about the people of New Jersey.. I thought it was just afew people, so it would not be pertinant that I wore it... Well, I was wrong, I know for next time.. I had to talk in front of everyone, and at one point I had nothing to say.. They said, well tell us in English.. and in Spanish I said, I don't know what to say.. Luckly they all laughed.. At the end of lunch we decided Greg would come over tomorrow (today), and stay for the weekend.. The person he is staying with has to go to Barcelona for somthing............ Later, I skyped Rosie, and she brought me over to the restaurant to see every one. It was very cool.  Oh and I thought my computer battery had died, so I nearly died myself.... Skyped again, with my friend Sam.I went to a b.b.q at Monica's house, it was for Guiliano beacause they are moving to Italy (today is the actual day). So, I hung out there until alittle after mid-night.. Then, it was back to Skypeing and my battery was magically better! I Skyped Miarose, my grandpa Phil, Mrs. Frits, Mrs. Klick, and my Meme. By the time I was all done it was like 4 in the morning........... Sleep....

-Sean

Something great!

So yesterday was just a regular day in the neighborhood for me... I stayed local.. I ran around and did some errands with my Host Mom, then we went to the beach.. Afterwards, we went home... We ate, talked, the normal things one does. Fianlly, towards the end of the night my Host Mom came to my room and asked about my computer... My Host Dad gave me the password to the wi-fi days earlier, but truth be told, I was putting it in wrong the whole time!!! So, she clarified what the code really was, and now I can access the internet from MY laptop, in MY room..

After that happend, I skyped my aunt Piera, aunt Theresa, and Rosie, Tiffany, and Eve!! It was nice to actually talk to everyone in privacy. I stayed up till like after 3 in the morning here, though it was worth it.

-Sean

Finally with my host family

My host family found me, and they were so kind... They wouldn't let me wheel my own suitcases. So, you know, we talked about this, that, and the other thing... Blah, blah, blah... They asked me if I was hungry, and as always I said yes! So, after 40 minutes or so of driving we made it home... We had pasta for dinner, and bread... They eat bread a lot here, which is fine with me... Other than that, we just talked about each other's lives...

 Next day..
Everyone is at work, and Sean is all alone.... I just walked around a bit outside... Nothing major.... We talked more, we decided for my birthday that paella would be made.. Oh yeah, they asked if I wanted to go out on my first night, the ways they do things here are different indeed.

Thursday, My Birthday....

So, I was told the day before the cleanig lady would be coming today and not to be alarmed.... So, I met her, she is Russia and speaks Spanish! How cool is that!?   Well, eventually my Host Mom arrived from work, and we ate with the cleaning lady and Monica the neighbor... It was nice, more questioning about my daily living and such...  Eventually, I met Monica's son Stefano. He's cool, he speak English and studied in the U.S. as an exchange student as I am doing now. Later on, we went to the store and bought the needed goods for the paella... and Monica's family (her husband, sons; Stefano, Giuliano)(Giuliano and I didn't talk much due to the fact that he speaks no English, and speaks Spanish very fast!) came over and had birthday dinner with all of us.

Friday.... Life just kept on moving....

Saturday...
Nothing too intersting during the day, though at night it was more interesting... We went to a b.b.q. at Monica's house, these things happen later in Spain, things don't really start till 9 or 10... So, we ate, talked... More people came, somes friend's of Stefano. Luckly, his friends spoke English. After mid-night we went out, and did not leave were till like 5ish, and arrived at his friend house like at 5:20... That was an intersting night.. I slept alittle, the Monica came and picked us up at like 7 something and I went home and crahed.


Sunday
A very mellow day.... I woke at like 1 and Monica was already here... She said she would come get me at like 2ish and bring me to her friend's house to meet some more kids... One of them is in the same grade as me... We at more paella, swam, and just hung out. Then we left, I went home.... Don't remember what happend then... My host mom came in and said what are you doing, I was like, relaxing.... I did fall asleep and didn't wake till the next morning.  Ah, the greatness of sleep.

Monday...
We ran around here and there... To the school to pick class and fun stuff... I was bored, so my Host Mom introduced me to another kid named, Luis. Another friend!! Later we went to the market for some stuff and bread!  After, my Host Mom brought me to see some town near the mountains.. It was very beatiful, plus we got iceceam!! Then, we went home, made dinner, talked about stuff, Spanish, and it ended up like being a test given by my Host Mom in Spanish about the Spanish language... It was great haha. More sleep....


Finally, I have caught up!!!

-Sean

Now, more about what has been happening...

So, after my sandwich and such, I went to find my own gate... It was very easy.  Once I found it, I waited till the shuttle pulled up... On my way to the shuttle, I ran into another Rotary Exchange Student... I can't remember his name, oh well. So, I arrived to the plan and had to walk up this HUGE set of stairs... I hate heights, I just felt as if I were going to fall the whole time...

Now, on the plane to Spain!!
This plane was nothing compared to the first, I felt disfortunate for all of like 2 minutes, then I got over it. I ended up sitting next to this couple from London. (What a suprise, I was only sitting ther for 5 hours!) They were really nice, they talked to me the whole time without a complaint haha.  At one point, I said where I was from, and this girl said "You're from New Jersey!?" I should have answered, no, I just say for as a joke... So, I said "Yeah," and she said, "Me too, from Edison". Well, that was nice, some stanger just handing over there personal information... Luckly for her, I am not a stalker.

Off the plane I go!
I had no idea what to do... So, the couple from London let me follow them. Eventually, we made to this place where we showed our passports. At first no one where there, so we waited online...  People do the strangest
 things online... Everyone knew we were waiting, but they just felt the need to walk to the front to see, WHAT? Really people, it is not zoo. I was my turn to show the passport.. Like everyone else, I showed it and kept going, wrong move! He said, "dame, dame". (Give me, give me!) I turned around, and handed it over...... I then proceeded forward, and found that couple.. We finally made it to the luggage reclaim, and went our seperate ways. I went to this one reclaim thing, well I was at the wrong one! This guy who worked at the airport just knew I was in need of help. He starting rambleing at me in Spanish! Well, luckly I got it and moved on... I went to the other luggage place and found one suitcase... The guy yet again helped me.. He told me to go to some office so, I did. I was waiting online, and that guy came over with a bunch of luggage includeing mine.. I told him it was mine, so he gave it over, and said something funny in Spainish about me not seeing it... So, I thought...     Now, I asked the lady in the office where to find my Host Mom, more Spanish blah, blah, blah...

I found my host parents!!!

I am getting tired of writing, I'll write soon!

-Sean

What has been happening...

The weekend before I left...
     So, I worked the whole weekend before I left, and it was just dandy... All of the customers were giving me cards and money, I mean really, how bad can that be? Before my Sunday Funday started, I had lunch with more friends, basically like family. Finally it was Sunday Funday time!, and after working from 4 on, we had our last work family dinner (Eve, Tiff, Rosie, and myself). It was great!! They gave me a Nook, so that I can look even more erudite haha. Eventually, we all left.

MONDAY
   As you already know my work family brought me to the airport, that is everyone but Oscar... As we say in Spanish, Qué lástima (What a shame). So, I packed the last of my things with my mom and sister... Well, they bascially packed everything, I watched. Afew hours before leaving, I went around with my sister to some of my nearby friend's houses and said Good Bye. A couple hours later, I said my good byes to my family and went to meet the work family at the restaurant. There, I said my final good byes to my Mom and Sisiter It was not too hard for me, but for my younger sister it was... They ended up coming back to say Bye again, my poor sister..

The ride to the airport..
Eve, Tiff, Rosie, Shanna, mysely left to the airport at like 6:30... We may have been some what behind schedule... On the ride uo Shanna gave my this Matador she made of paper, it is so cool.. Now, it stands in my new room. After driving for who nows how long, we made it! We went to check in, and the lady told me she had to charge $60 for the extra suitcase and even more because the weight... Well, she told use if we moved some things around that she would not charge me for the extra weight!! If only all people were as nice. Before my flight, went to eat at some place... I can't remember the name.... After eating, they walked me as far as they could , and we said our good bye... It was quite emotional, I only cried alittle... Maybe more than alittle.. Well, it was just like I was saying good bye to my real family...

NOW I WAS ALL ALONE
   So, the airport here (N.J.) was a piece of cake... I would know, I like cake.  The flight was horrible, it felt like forever, and I could not sleep... I met this lady that lives in London, she has a son who is my age. She gave me her card, and told if I am ever in London to give them a call.. The greatness of networking!

Now in London airport with a 5 hour lay over! Ugh!!
    Okay... I get off the plan and the lady from London points me in the right direction.... Now, her I am going to get on the shuttle and I see this person..... He kinda just looked at me, so I just kept going... Well, what do think happened next?! He got on the shuttle too! I did not know where to sit so... I sat next to him... He gave me this look like, it is fine sit here.. You know what I'm talking about right? Now, I get off the shuttle and go somewhere else.... HE WENT THERE TOO! He went down a different line though.. I thought I finally escaped.. Well, I was wrong... After going through security I started walkng around inquireing about my flight (I was not in any rush though, I mean the was 5 hours to kill and all). Yet AGAIN, I saw him, he looked lost and confused like a puppy.. So, we started talking... He was from Qutar, harmless. We hung out in the airport till he left. He wanted to eat, so he bought a sandwich, and kept asking me if I wanted the other half.. Finally, I said yes... I can never say no to food. I told him, now I owe you half a sandwich. He just laughed. We exchanged e-mails, more networking... It was time for him to go, so we walked to his gate, and said our good byes..

I feel like there is a lot here, so I am going to finish in a different post..

-Sean







 

The big day is here!

So, the packing has almost come to an end. There are just a couple more hours, and I'll be in the Newark airport waiting to leave. I'm going to leave around six, then once I get there, wait till 11:55 and board the plane. My work family is bringing me up to the airport (Eve, Tiff, Rosie, and maybe Oscar) and Eve's daughter Shanna. This shall be an intersting ride, can't wait!

Well, that is all for now... I'll let you all know when I arrive.

-Sean

The visa... and the nonsense along with it.

So, I recieved my visa last Wednesday which you would think would be a good thing. I sent a copy of the visa to my travel agency and then waited..... Five days later, my itinerary had finally arrived!

Here it is:   ~Newark, N.J. to London, England to Málaga, Spain~

Departure- August 31, Monday.
Flight time- 10:55 p.m. Ugh, that is so late!!
Arrival to London- 7 hours and 20 mins. later, and now it is 11: 15 a.m.

FIVE HOUR LAYOVER ALONE IN LONDON, ENGLAND!!! This would be great if there were no such thing as jet lag! I have never flown before, so this should be interesting..

Now leaving London- 4:15 p.m.
Arrival to Málaga- 7:55 p.m.  Fianlly the day of traveling will be over.

Well, that's really all for now... 13 days!!

-Sean

How it all started...

Spanish, I do it because I love it.. With so few days left, the studying increases more and more everyday.

It has basically been one year since I began to fall in love with the Spanish language.. I use to work at my aunt's restaurant, I was there almost everyday. I enjoyed working so much... Then, that day came that we closed. I did not know what to do with myself. Then, it happened! I called my friend who was doing her summer Spanish homework, she gave me the link and my studies began. 

Throughout the year, I had began mastering the language and at the same falling in love with it. I started in an level one class, then moved to a level two class, by the end of the year I had made it to a level three class (I was a 9th. grader, with all 11 graders, and I'm not even a native speaker!). I felt bad for all of those that I have encountered because the topics about all my conversations were Spainsh related.. Now your break from Spanish rambling is almost here! It was amazing seeing what I had done so a few months before the summer began, my new boss asked an old customer of my aunt's who is involved in the Rotary about Youth Exchange, and now I am here writing to all of you with 19 days to go!

- Sean