Helpful, rude and embarrasing

Last week Almut and I had a variety of different language learning experiences. We are both doing better in Czech, but it is a slow process.

Last Thursday we had the tap in our kitchen replaced. Between us we were able to speak to the repairman and tell him what needed to be repaired. He was very helpful.

Also we went to the railway station to get some tickets for me (James) to travel to Hungary and a colleague to Vienna. We also got some discount rail cards. Don't know why, but the woman serving us was quite rude.

On the Friday morning I went to the doctor for an appointment. I understood could make myself understood most of the time, but the doctor wasn't particularly patient with me when I didn't understand. That was just embarrassing.

We are learning that living in a new country and learning a new language can be a challenging experience. I have increasing sympathy for refugees and displaced people who have to learn a new language!