Gratitude 8

I am thankful for finally being here.

Last day of being 20! Last night, I arrived at the Kodály Institute. I somehow made it through the train ordeal. Once I got off the train in Budapest, I figured my way to the underground, confused, frustrated, overwhelmed, and on the verge of a flood of tears. Just as Martin had helped me map out, though, I followed the subways and signs and eventually made my way to Nyugati station. (Thankfully, Martin and Katrin "Europeanized" me well while I was with them.) Much to my relief, I found the train right in front of me. I also thankfully met a nice Hungarian lady who lived in Kecskemét and who showed me the way, even sharing her tazi and taking me right to the school's entrance! The porter showed me to my room where my bags were waiting and then took me around the building on a brief tour. The Institute is beautiful! I think I am going to like it very much here. I spent the evening settling in, unpacking, and contacting home. I found a wireless system here, but its connection is a little shaky right now. At least I have it, though. I wandered around the building this morning. There was a choir of some sort rehearsing in the concert hall. It was so cool to walk through the corridors and hear the music drifting through! I also have been getting to know the other students who arrive this week. I met the grocery store system head on this afternoon, for I needed to get some food. So confusing! I am sure we will figure it out, though. It is very different than grocery shopping at home and is going to be far more time-consuming. Tomorrow, those of us that are here will begin orientation with day trips around the country. We are scheduled to see the opera house in Budapest tomorrow! :)