I think it’s always important to learn something new, try something new, go somewhere new… keep adapting and changing, otherwise life gets boring and I don’t believe in that word.
Today I started my new Dutch class. I will be taking 24 lessons, 3 hours each for the next several months and practicing and speaking a little bit more each day. I’m counting on my Dutch friends and family to speak to me in Dutch and not laugh at me when I try to speak back to them in Dutch. I understand some but can’t really speak it or write it. Wish me luck!!
Today I decided to be Dutch too, and rode my bike to class. Luckily there wasn’t any rain – just gray skies and cold weather which actually isn’t “so” bad anymore compared to adding rain in the mix. I guess I’ve changed my expectations and am adapting, although I still don’t like this weather and find the dreary skies quite heavy. I long for sunshine but accept what is and will make the best of it, like riding my bike!
To reward myself for riding and not having to pay for parking (which also irks me) I spent the money instead on sushi for lunch and took it home, yet next time I’ll have to buy a little more as I’m still hungry!
It was nice to have a quiet afternoon before kid pickup, just me and my sushi and time to write about my day. I hope you have a wonderful day, learning something new and doing something nice for yourself and hopefully you’ll share your joy.
xo Adriana
here i am 
Hi Adriana, looking forward to speak Dutch with you. This Sunday during our New Year’s dive (it’s gona be cold!) you can practice your dutch with me, my friends and my family. I am so proud of you taking Dutch lessons. Most of the expats don’t even bother learning our language. You make my day : ) love, Barbara
Thanks, Barbara! I’m so glad you invited me and that you will practice Dutch with me too. I think when you learn the language of another country, you not only learn to communicate but also to show respect and connect with the people, the culture and broaden your community- which is what I love! In my Dutch class today, I made new friends with 3 Chinese students, 2 Japanese, 1 Indian, 1 Polish, 1 Irish/Australian and me, the 1 American. I LOVED the diversity and half of us have only been in the country for “pas” 6 months! Should be fun. Tot ziens, liefje. – Adriana
I love that you have decided to take a class to learn Dutch. It will be so wonderful for you and I to speak Dutch together. Just think how much fun we will have! I am so proud of you ! Enjoy, and do not get discourage! Love you! Veel plezier!
Mama – let’s talk in Dutch from now on! Today was my second class and I loved it.
Adriana, Do you know if it’s too late to sign up for classes? I also want to learn Dutch and didn’t realize the new semester of classes was already starting. Let me know! Talk with you soon!
Hi Inga, I sent you an email with the class details. I think there might still be room. Call me if you need help at all.
Barbara – your party was so much fun and your family and friends were very kind to me, especially your sister in law, Lisa. I want to speak Dutch with you and ill keep practicing! Heb je zin een kopje koffie met mij? Is that correct?.