Gracias? Really??

Tonight at went to Church at my parish here in Vina Del Mar. I was in the communion line, and I thought to myself "I know I don't understand the words at Mass but at least when I receive communion I can still say AMEN." It's the exact same, just with a rockin Chilean accent. Then my head got so big and full of confidence I forgot. When I received communion I said "Gracias." GRACIAS?!?! Are you kidding me? Yeah, thanks for giving me Jesus. Haha, the guy just stared at me. I shook my head and hurriedly said "Amen." When I got back to my seat I had to laugh at myself. That was my big stupid moment of the night.

However, the night was not over! Tonight they are celebrating Saint Alberto Hurtado, who is actually from Chile. After mass everyone was invited to gather for cake and refreshments. I don't know anyone there, so I just decided to leave. However, one of the women who welcomed me last week chased me out of the Church and asked me to stay and meet her daughter and celebrate with everyone. She was so sweet! She grabbed me by the arm and escorted me to the party. She introduced me to her family, and everyone was so nice! Even the priest came up and talked to us!! It turned out to be an amazing night, and then on the way home I even stopped to watch the rain. I live in a gorgeous city and when the freezing rain isn't causing hypothermia, it's kind of nice to watch.

Alright, I am off to learn Spanish now. I am getting a Chilean buddy!! Today we talked to Carlos about getting Spanish tutoring. Ashley and I like to practice with each other, but it is hard to practice with someone else who is learning. Entonces, Carlos with the University is going to find me a student who wants to practice to improve his English and help me improve my Spanish. I am stoked!! I am going to learn Spanish!