I will start with THE most recent. Because literally, this took place about 10 minutes ago. It's hot off the presses. I just got back from the best cafe in Toledo. I went there for the first time a few weeks ago, when the folks from SIS were visiting. This little gem is an Arabic tea shop, and I'm in love. The decor is gorgeous. The music is rockin' (Sunday Drivers, Michael Buble, Barry White, Louis Armstrong, Johnny Cash, Moulin Rouge soundtrack, Semisonic, etc, etc.). And the tea isn't too shabby either. It's my kind of place. I already have a favorite cafe (an old church, converted into an art cafe by day and a discoteca by night), but now I think I might have to share favorites. Not a bad problem to have.
The second newest thing (as of 3 hours ago): I am going to Germany next weekend! My roommate and I will be flying into Frankfurt, and we are going to be staying with a middle/high school friend of mine. I'm pretty excited for this little excursion! It's spring! And I've got a mad case of cabin fever! And I'm thinking that the German air will be a nice change of pace for the soul.
THIRD newest thing, though arguably the most noteworthy (as of 36 hours ago): I will be living in Andalucía next year! Despite my ever so typical procrastination, I did get my papers in on time (I submitted my renewal application the day before it was due). I am really excited about the change of locale. I have asked to live in Sevilla capital, so hopefully that happens. As much as I have loved living in Toledo, I think that I would have a very different life if I moved back to Sevilla, and I think I need that.
I am not sure what else to update you about. Work today was rather pointless. The first class had an exam, and the second and third classes didn't have their regularly scheduled teacher (she is away for 2 weeks!). I did end up leaving an hour early (NICE!) which made me happy, but sitting around all day makes me feel a little less than great. But I suppose you'll have days like this.
Oh, maybe I should also tell you that I am really into Spanish these days. I forgot about reading my book in Spanish, but I've started again. I'm still not far. But I've also rented a grammar book from the library, and it's awesome. I'm actually studying and learning things for myself. And I suppose a little bit of self-motivation and self-improvement are also good for the soul.
Though I haven't "given up" anything for Lent, I am committed to making positive improvements in my life. I am trying to feed good things to my soul. I learned a word today from the newest edition of Readers Digest, which some kind stranger has secretly subscribed me to. The word is Russian, and it expresses an idea that English has no single word for.
Toska. "At its deepest and most painful, it is a sensation of great spiritual anguish, often without any specific cause. At less morbid levels, it is a dull ache of the soul, a longing with nothing to long for, a sick pining, a vague restlessness, mental throes, yearning. In particular cases, it may be the desire for somebody or something specific, nostalgia, lovesickness. At the lowest level, it grades into ennui, boredom."
I'm afraid I find myself with a bit of toska. And I'm not sure why (in keeping with the definition). But I'm trying to do something about it. So this Lent, it's all about the soul food, about finding myself, and most importantly about finding God again.
This was all sort of a ramble... whoops.
But anyway, it's nice to see you again.
1 comment:
y olé! I was an auxiliar for three years at a school outside of Sevilla and still live here, so let me know if you need any clues on teaching in the south!
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