Just the Beginning

I received my visa one week ago, and within a few hours, had my ticket for 5:30 the next morning. Of course, me being the procrastinator, I had about 7 hours heads-up to pack my suitcase. Thankfully, this was done in time, with the help of my ever understanding parents and brother. I went to the airport and everything was extremely.. normal. I gave my parents hugs and kisses goodbye, then walked away. The flight landed in Houston a mere two hours later, and after a short lay-over I was on my first International flight. This is when I realized how little Spanish I know. The airline had run out of English Immigration papers. There I was, stuck, struggling through my first 'assignment' in Mexico, luckily I learned how nice and helpful the people of Mexico can be if you know how to ask for help (Puede ayudarme, por favor?). I landed in Veracruz close to noon, and quite easily went through customs. I then remembered how late it had been when I sent an email to my host-mother the day before. That very important email, which announced my arrival in Mexico. Luckily, I had my trusty journal and a good book close at hand. Thus, I kept myself occupied with a mixture of reading, writing, and people watching. A short time later I met my host-mother and grandmother. Talk about loving people. I was greeted with bear hugs and picture taking. We ate lunch at a restaurant off of the marina in Veracruz. After some beach sight-seeing, we began our two hour drive to Xalapa. I fell asleep in the car to the sounds of Spanish music of which I understood "amor" and that is about it. After my short nap, I looked out of the window and saw a man riding a donkey.
On the shoulder of the highway.
Going the opposite direction of traffic. Culture Shock #1.
I went to a School Orientation on my second day. My classmates were all very welcoming, and helped me quite a bit with the whole "language" situation. That night I went to the Host Club's meeting. It began at about 9pm, but did not finish until close to midnight. My mother would say we 'have the same sleeping schedule.' I have yet to feel unwelcome, nor do I expect to feel that way for the entire year.
Saturday I went to a Bridal Shower. It was quite fun, very similar to what one would be like in the U.S. However, I think the tacos are a necessity for a shower here in Mexico. I also went to 'Los Lagos' (The Lakes). There was a massive zip line over the lake on which I must go sometime!
My Spanish improves everyday. I look forward to the day when I can understand what I am told, and can respond with more than smiling, nodding, and saying, 'Sí.' I have heard, 'give it three weeks,' and 'give it three months.' I think I will lean toward the three months, for the sole reason that I do not want to be disappointed in three weeks.

My Frustrating Spanish Form

Clouds Covering Mexico

Breaking Through the Clouds

My Room

First Club Meeting I Attended

My Pesos!

A Gift from my Abuelita

After Los Lagos

Church

Bird's of Paradise at Church

Things That Reminded me of Home

Met Some Old Friends

French Crepe...?..

First Day of School

The Sunrise from my Bedroom Window