Five weeks in counting.

Would you like a quick update on my Santiago situation? Of course, why do I even ask! I can hardly begin to describe my experience in this country. I have sat Indian style on my bed several times wracking my brain for some inspiration. I'll write approximately a sentence and a half and then lose interest, or realize it's getting late, or notice I have Spanish and TEFL homework that is scattered across the floor uncompleted. I'm determined to finish tonight. Truthfully, I haven't had the burning desire to update because I have been a real bore when it come to taking pictures. Gawd, I've been awful! BUT (and that's a big one, too) my goal this week is to take at least 50 pictures. Seeing as it's already Thursday and I've yet to capture any Kodiak moments, I have a great task set before me.

I'm excited about...
1. Moving in to an apartment! This Sunday I'm packing up my backpack at my host family's house and heading on over to set up camp for the next six months at an apartment shared by two other girls. And I'll have an address for everyone to send me some love packages ;)

2. Finishing my TEFL course! Yep, I'm ready to be done, not because I hate the course, my classmates, or my instructors. I'm merely ready for the money.... well, at least a little income to cover my rent and food would be sufficient.

3. Spanish! Yes, I'm ready to start speaking some more Spanish.

4. Cooler weather! Note that I did not say cold weather. I also get to shop for clothes! Heck yes, I need some boots, sweaters, leggings, a new coat.... At the same time, I'm missing my closet in Texas.

In other news....
So I left home five weeks ago, and I still can't believe that I'm here. I have little moments of clarity when I think "wow, I'm in Santiago, Chile." Even though I'd really like to rack some of the people who block the sidewalk with their meandering bicycle skills, I love it here. Or maybe it's more that I love the fact that I'm living in a non-English speaking country without a significant other or posse in tow. I love that I haven't settle for some second-rate job or chased after some ridiculous illusion. I wouldn't trade this for anything, ANYTHING, and especially not the "American dream." Well.... maybe being married to a sober, younger Robert Downy Jr. Of course, I'm missing my family and friends, and I'm also expecting A LOT of visitors..... So, don't disappoint if you're reading from Texas.