So. My goals. (I think “resolutions” might be a little much for right now, since living in Russia is something I’ve never done before, and I have no idea if any of these things are actually attainable.)
- Learn at least one interesting new vocab word each day. If I don’t in classes/life, look one up in a dictionary.
- Average no more than 30 minutes per day in communication with America (including email, Facebook, phone, and video chat).
- Learn to pray in Russian.
- Find a place in St. Petersburg where I can swing dance.
- Wear my amazing (-ly obnoxious) new $6 dance shoes.
- Be the exotic American doing exotic American dances like, the way they do them in America.
- But otherwise, keep the obvious Americanness to a minimum.
- Read at least one “for fun” book in Russian. Even if it’s a children’s book.
- Remember to take my dietary supplements and vitamins.
- Attend a Russian church.
- Make friends with the local бабушки (read: little old church ladies).
- By the end of the semester, understand what's going on at all times during the service.
- Don’t be too annoying about rooting for the good ol’ USA during the Olympics.
- Update this blog at least twice a week.
- Get more sleep than I do at ND on a regular basis (so, more than 6.5 hours/night).
- Stay in a hostel.
- Visit every free museum in St. Petersburg.
- Do not end up leading/directing/in charge of anything. Except maybe weekend excursions with the other students.
Unrealistic? I hope not. Here’s to a good 6 months in Russia. (I am now toasting with a mug of water—I can give a real toast with real alcohol once I get to Russia and am legal.)
PS- for fun, a picture of my amazing & obnoxious $6 dance shoes. Wow are they comfortable. And wow are they ever ridiculous.
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