Nosy
Sometimes I take walks just to look at signs to see if I understand them and to look at the way phrases are structured (because it’s not always a direct translation from English to Spanish for it to make complete sense). I like to see if I can get the gist of a conversation from only catching a few words as I walk past an elderly couple or group of friends. The same goes for cellphone conversations on the street or in stores. They’re all little games I play with myself to test my language skills and I do it more for something to be proud of than to be nosy. How much can I understand a Spaniard speaking Spanish normally and without having to slow their speech so a non-native can understand?
I am hoping that words and phrases I pick up in this inconspicuous manner will infiltrate into my brain and somehow make me smarter; perhaps even help me explain myself the next time I find myself waiting confusedly outside a gorgeous, must-see basilica with my big-old camera in hands when a funeral parade begins. (So much for trying to blend into the crowd and minding my own business.)
Hi Alyssa, You are being creative in your pursuit of the Spanish language. Grandpa’s sister, Aunt Barb, is a spanish major so speaks spanish fluently….also has taught it. She also speaks Swiss German and Swedish and to practice her Swedish (and not get too rusty) she gets together with a Swedish friend (an ex-colleage from her teaching days) for lunch where she can practice speaking Swedish on a regular basis.
Your method of listening in on conversations is also a good way to test your comprehension.
Sounds like you are having a good time in Spain and seeing LOTS of things and places. Glad that everything is going well.
Love you, Grandma
Comment by Milana Carlson — February 24, 2008 @ 6:35 pm
Wow, I didn’t know Aunt Barb knew so many languages! Even more impressive that she can still speak them today. I’ve got a lot to live up to in this Carlson family.
Comment by Alyssa — February 24, 2008 @ 6:40 pm
Grandma Carlson said it all better than I could Gamma
Comment by Gamma — February 24, 2008 @ 10:45 pm