Aargghh

Studying abroad really does make you grow as a person. I realized this last night when I finally realized how stressful and overwhelming everything is here! Don't get me wrong, I love being here. But learning the language, making friends, and going to activities takes up a lot of time. I feel as though I never have time to just relax. Being in a new environment is actually very difficult. I know once I learn Norwegian everything will get better, but I have quite a ways to go. I wonder how many people actually understand how difficult it is to learn another language! Learning Norwegian is the hardest thing I have ever done in my entire life, I am sure about that. I understand a lot (when people speak slowly haha) and I can read a lot. But writing and speaking is totally different. There are three letters in Norwegian that English doesn't have: æ ø å. Also, in Molde, everyone roll's their r's with their tongue, which is very difficult for me! If anyone has tips on how to do that let me know please! Haha. Every night though my parents and I will sit down and practice Norwegian. I think this will be very helpful and I will learn Norwegian quicker. Though I feel if I could just pronounce everything correctly Norwegian would be very easy to learn. I am just very uncomfortable with speaking the language, because I dont pronounce everything right. I know its okay for me to say things with my American accent, but its still scary to do so! Today I actually read something in Norwegian to my History class. It was probably one of the scariest moments of my life! But I did it! I know it wasn't perfect, but it's a start for me. And I know every time I read Norwegian out loud, or speak Norwegian with people, it will become a lot easier. But it is soo frustrating to not understand what someone is saying, or not know how to say something back. I never realized it would be this difficult to learn another language. Though in February I am sure I will look back on this and laugh at how difficult I thought it was to learn/speak Norwegian. One of my biggest fears/worries is that I will not learn the language while I am here. I have to doubt that though because I know my parents will make sure I do, and help me in every way possible. I really do appreciate that, I could never do it without them, or without my friends at school helping me too. Tusen takk =) I am also kind of happy that Norwegian is proving difficult for me to learn. It's a challenge and I now have a goal that I would like to accomplish. This forces me to really work hard for something I want, and learn more about myself along with the way. I know my year here will change me, for the better I believe. I am looking forward to the day everything finally clicks in my brain, and Norwegian makes sense :) What a great moment that will be! Then I can actually use the language. I will be able to join in conversations at school, understand what the teacher is saying and do my homework (oh joy oh joy). I may have a lot of work, but I will finally feel like I belong here and fit in with everyone else. And who doesn't want to feel that way?