Spanish Practice with Frida

A shop near the house

This night I watched the movie "Frida" in Spanish and understood just about everything. I was pretty amazed. Of course, this was the version with Salma Hayak, so the Spanish was dubbed over the English, which is always easier for me to understand than an original movie in Spanish, but still. I felt really good about this small accomplishment. Great, movie, too!

Speaking of Spanish, I'm still looking for a private tutor. There are schools in Merida that offer private lessons, but they cost around $25/hour, and I just don't want to pay that much. The guy I worked with before was good, but I prefer something a little more formal this time around. I need to be forced to use grammar I'm not using and to push myself, and casual conversation alone doesn't do that. I have reached out to a couple of tutors, so hopefully I'll find someone.

This week, Thursday, is my consultation appointment with Dr. Javier Camara to see if I will switch dentists for the re-doing of my crowns (the whole reason I'm here in Merida!) I'm keeping an open mind and certainly haven't ruled out going back to Dr. Sanchez, either. I just want a second (well actually third) opinion. In the big scheme of things, paying more money is worth it to me if they look good. And if done right, they won't have to be replaced for a long time, or maybe ever.

I'll close with some pics of my apartment. I think this is my favorite Airbnb so far! There's a giant window that goes across the whole living room/kitchen and there's a crazy vine growing all over it which makes me feel like I'm in the jungle.

My new office

There's a kitchen bar so I can stand while I work in the jungle. I looooove not having to sit all day.

The apartment is also just very clean and nice, and has a minimalist look that works for me.  The A/C and hot water both work well (thanks Shannon, for the tip on the water heater!).

The rent is $450/month with everything included.

Luxury bathroom!

Best of all, the neighbor apparently has a pet bunny, which he or she lets out in the hall to run free. It greeted me on my first day here and I knew I was in the right place.

My buddy, outside my front door

Money spent today:
600 - 3 pairs of shorts
25 - a few groceries

625 pesos = 32 USD