Universal Truths

I've been taking part in a community center class designed to help people improve their French. I was interested in this class because my French needs improvement but also because I wanted to meet some ladies in my town and nothing I was previously trying was working. So, here I am, one month in and enjoying it, except the waking up early and having to actually function in French part. :) But, there are some things I have noticed from the women in my class.

First, here is a breakdown of the ladies I spend every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday morning with: Our teacher is French, but she "originates" (to use the French term) in Tunisia, three women from Sri Lanka (They speak some English and are quite friendly), one is from Pakistan (she and her husband run the Indian/Pakistan restaurant), one is Columbian (she talks and talks and you can totally tell Spanish is her first language), one is from Bangladesh (she is SO sweet), one is from Algeria (she is probably my favorite :)), and there is another American (a good friend from my team).

So, about the Universal Truths:

I was sitting in class one sunny Friday morning and I glanced at my watch. Almost simultaneously everyone around me started looking at the nearest watch. There is something about the fast approaching weekend when the sun is bright and you're stuck in the classroom...everyone wants that clock to tick.

That same day, just after the watches, I heard candy wrappers! I was immediately taken back to college days (and even high school, I think). My classmates knew where to go for the candy...my bag! Candy just makes your brain work better...and the clock tick a little faster.

Today, I had my back to the rest of the class as I grabbed my water bottle out of my purse. I was minding my own business and then SMACK! I had been good-gamed! I was quite startled and quickly turned around to find the culprit was the above mentioned favorite. It was the same giddy-fun smack on the bum I had given and received on many occasions.

Women, no matter where they are from, like to talk! There will be days when little pockets are chatting and there are all these tongues flying around (not literally, but many languages being spoken). I look to my American friend (with whom I am speaking English) and ask her if she hears any French. Her answer? Usually is, "Nope." :)

Just another glimpse into my life in this crazy cultural exchange. Did you notice how many different countries are represented in my class?!?