Loving every second...

I am sitting in the library studying Russian, listening to John Danley and feeling incredibly content. I've had many of these moments, especially in the past month or so. I keep noticing how amazing it is here, and how amazing my everyday experiences are. I'm surrounded by people who are intensely interested in what they're studying and passionate about learning. I make music with brilliant people, go on long walks through the woods, drink coffee in Red Hook, a tiny picturesque town... When I was dreaming of coming to Bard, I never dreamt it would be this great. I spend hours in this library, wandering through the stacks, reading bits on Linguistics, Economics, and anything else that catches my fancy. All for the pure pleasure of enriching my life. Last night a few friends and I went to see Casablanca and then had an hour long discussion about gender roles in society. Every day I am immersed in a culture of intense inquiry.

On Wednesday I got paid to record some violin parts for a friend's album! It was really nerve wracking knowing I was getting paid though, because I felt horrible every time I played a wrong note and had to start over. It was great to get experience recording in a real studio, especially on violin.

I decided I'm taking Russian again next semester, which means I'll have class for two hours four days a week and a tutorial the other day. I'm not set on my other classes yet, though I know I want to take four dance classes.

This is the first year I won't be with any of my family for Thanksgiving, which is a little strange, but I suppose it had to happen sometime. I'm going to have an Up with People Thanksgiving, which is exciting! Two of my very close friends, Molly and Erin are driving up from Indianapolis, picking me up and then we're all spending the break at our friend Beths's house in New Hampshire. Our friends Sophie from Sweden and Jessie who goes to Cornell are also joining us. It should be a fabulous time. :)

I miss everyone in Georgia so much, and I miss Georgia in general. It is fabulous, however, that I will be home for an entire month from Dec 21st through Jan 26th! I'm very happy about that :).

I hope all is well with everyone, love to all!

Love,
Marina