I’ve decided
I’m finally able to list another language besides English on my Facebook page.
I’m calling it Smutch. I know some Dutch. Not much but some.
I’m able to
say hello and have a small conversation with someone who is Dutch if they are
willing to help me through the big unknown words. I can now count to ten and
can count change back from a 50.. with a little help. I can say thank you, and
here you go with ease. I can say good bye several different ways and I’m also
able to make my words sing at the right inflections when saying them. I know
directions for north, south, east and west and can usually point my car in the
right direction when doing so.
Reading
Dutch is a lot easier than understanding it when someone is talking. Or if I
ask them to slow down a bit I’m able to pick out and get most of the meaning
from what they’re saying. And if I give them that “Deer in the headlight” look,
they always switch back to English. I’m able to read most items on the menu
now. And signs are becoming more and more familiar. Listening to the radio, I
no longer tune out what is being said during the news. I’m able to understand
when they are talking about a town nearby, the traffic report and the
temperature that is forecasted for the day. But I’m still shocked when the F
word comes flying out just as plain as day.
The Dutch language
is very gruff and gurggly and difficult to pronounce. And just like the
different accents in the US it’s often hard to imitate the sounds and cadence of
the Dutch language. But with a positive can do spirit and a sense of humor I’m
learning. Most of the people I’ve met are so excited and willing to help me
with my Dutch and have a lot of patience with my progress. They know it’s a
difficult language and are willing to help me.
I’m headed
to Germany this week so I’m thinking I’ll listen to Wayne Newton sing Danke
Schoen and get a few tips on how to speak German.
So for now….
Tot Ziens J
No comments:
Post a Comment