For those of you keeping up with my blog, you know that recently I have taken up Italian. And to help supplement my studies I enrolled in a language exchange program. It was easy. I just set up a profile, waited the 24 hr approval period, and began my search for a pen pal. Graciously three out of four people responded to my plea for help with my Italian (in exchange for lessons in English). All three have faithfully corresponded with me from our initial contact.
I am fortunate that they are all very patient. Obviously I love to write (it's what I do!). And for this reason I am easily frustrated when I can't string together the appropriate words to translate into comprehensible Italian. Even with the help of an English/Italian dictionary I end of up saying strange things like.."we should buy more butter to write us back at the library!" However, I am so determined to master this second language that I read everything I can get my hands on. Then every once in awhile I get something right! "Perfect Italian" one of my new friends tell me. Grazie mille!!!
I am so impressed by the level of English all three can read and write. Some days I am not sure if this is more intimidating than inspiring. I feel like I am struggling along, but mainly because I want to rush. I sit through my lessons of un, una, il, la, etc.,etc. All the time wondering if I will be able to speak Italian in 6 months (as guaranteed), or if I'll be the first person to have her money refunded! Ah well, I continue to write to these new friends of mine, that are so kind and gracious. One day who knows, maybe I will be able to write an entire blog in Italian...and I promise, it won't have anything to do about butter!
