In the August issue of Northern
Connection magazine, I started the conversation regarding my desire to embrace
a lifetime of learning. In the article, I mentioned that I’ve noticed that it
has been awhile since I have learned anything totally new and outside the realm
of my job and so I intend to go in search of a new learning challenge.
One of the things that I have been
considering learning is a foreign language. I’ve noticed that when I travel to
foreign countries, the citizens appreciate any attempt at the language no
matter how badly it’s butchered. So, I’ve decided to take a look into learning
conversational French since my husband’s company is in Canada and I had some
French in High School. To get started, I looked up some software and had a bit
of sticker shock – Rosetta Stone® software, designed to teach you the foreign
language of your choice is almost $450 – ouch.
So I asked around and my father-in-law has been teaching himself Spanish
through “Instant Immersion”® software which he thinks is phenomenal and only
costs $50 and there are frequent sales for less at Amazon.com. Also, dear friends of mine are planning a vacation to Paris for their
twentieth anniversary and they really enjoyed their French class through CCAC and they practice together
as they sit on the porch every evening after dinner. How romantic is that!
Another
thing I’ve been considering is to attend more guest lectures. It is just an
evening out and not a huge commitment so it should fit conveniently into my
schedule. My local library is Northland Public Library and it has has lots of interesting events and lectures, one of particular
interest to me is an up-coming presentation about the Battle of Gettysburg in
honor of the 150th memorial anniversary.
Do you
have any other suggestions for me and our fellow readers, to help us embrace a
lifetime of learning?
I think learning a new language is an absolutely perfect idea! I myself attempted to learn a bit of Italian last Christmas as a hobby. Unfortunately, in this day and age everything costs money. Items which can help and enhance certain skills, such as Rosetta Stone, are particularly pricey. I recommend heading out to the library and attending some of their adult programs, and I also think there is quite a bit to learn online as well. My new hobby is finding crafts on Pinterest. I love Pinterest because members can share their talents and ideas with each other--rather than something being a one-sided conversation.
ReplyDeleteHi Stacie - Thank you so much for the advice - yes my library would be a great resource for my foreign language quest. I love Pinterest as well - perhaps Northern Connection should have a Pinterest presence - what do you think?
DeleteI definitely think a Pinterest presence would be great for the magazine. I know I'd follow!
DeleteI've attended presentations at Northland Library on everything from Indian and Chinese cooking to trolleys in Pittsburgh--they are great ways of connecting with people or exploring subjects with those you already know. Explore all the libraries around you for programming--you don't have to live in their service area to participate.
ReplyDeleteThis fall I am taking an intro to improv class. It's out of the box for me but improv teaches you so much including thinking on your feet, public speaking, confidence and all while challenging yourself and having fun.
Hi Deanna - Thank you so much for the advice - I'd didn't know you could sign up for programs at libraries outside of your area. Now, I am really limitless in the boundaries of my search. I also applaud you for taking the improv class - how cool is that! I love watching the television show "Who's Line Is It Anyway" http://www.cwtv.com/shows/whose-line-is-it-anyway. I am always so impressed by the skill and talent of the participants. Good for you!
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