Begin at the beginning

Sometimes, I think college is wasted on college students.

I took two years of Spanish in college (I had to have 2 years of foreign language to get my degree in English). I did only what was necessary to get the grade I wanted, and (big surprise) I didn't really learn how to speak or write Spanish.

The thing is, I'd really like to learn Spanish.

Over the past six years, I've thought about taking classes again (boring!) or shelling out the big bucks for Rosetta Stone computer software (too expensive!).

Last year, I watched a PBS pledge program with Barry Farber. According to him, I could learn any language (and multiple languages) on my own. For a sizable donation to PBS, I could get his book, a mug, a totebag, etc. etc. I passed on that one, and I asked for his book, "How To Learn Any Language," and a Spanish grammar book for my birthday (which I got from my parents. Thanks Mom and Dad!)

I read the book, but I didn't do any of the lessons or get the other materials I needed (dictionary, flashcards, phrase book, etc.)

Six months, one cross-country move, and a new job later, I went to my local bookstore and got a Spanish English Dictionary.

On Friday, I sat down with my workbook and started the first grammar unit.

So, I'm teaching myself Spanish.

Will it work?

Will I stick with it?

I'm not sure, but I'll keep track of my progress (and you can keep track of my progress) here.