While abroad in a very different culture you learn to adapt very quickly. The recent challenge, Mother Nature. In Madrid the high was 108 last weekend so I decided to get out of town and visit Portugal. It could not have been harder to leave such a rich and beautiful place. It was very interesting to compare Portuguese and Spanish cultures because the two actually share a lot in common. Even going around hearing Portuguese I could understand some conversations because of my spanish knowledge. Speaking to that knowledge, I really feel like I’ve learned a ton of Spanish each day which is really awesome. Occasionally throughout the day I find myself thinking in Spanish and that is always something I’ve found interesting but did not expect to encounter. Madrid is starting to feel very much like my home away from home and I feel comfortable being here now. Although I am still an outsider I feel a greater appreciation for the spanish values of pride and family. Maryville College and my family seem very far away but I am so happy I am on this trip and take the most of every opportunity to explore. So much so that I need new converse because mine have holes in them. Worth it.