Duolingo - I'm a Fan!

I'm learning Italian. I mean, why not? I read about duolingo.com and decided to check it out. It's pretty slick and completely free. I'm still a beginner, but I know quite a few foods, animals, common phrases, and some other basics. My memory is not nearly as good as it used to be so I do a lot of reviewing, but that's super easy to do with duolingo and they even make it fun. In only 5-10 minutes a day, I'm making some pretty good progress.

Here are some of the things I've learned:

I tuoi insetti sono nel mio piatto = Your insects are on my plate.
For obvious reasons, I am anxious to learn, I need a new plate. 

Io sono una tartaruga = I am a turtle. 
I am not making this up. That exact phrase was in one of my lessons. I have yet to learn My name is... or Where is the bathroom? but I can proudly announce to the Italian world that I am a turtle, just in case, you know, I ever become a turtle.

I know it sounds like I'm making fun. I'm not. These phrases are pretty memorable so they help me remember how to form the sentences as I substitute different words. And they make me laugh during my lessons which makes learning more enjoyable.

Two of my boys have joined in on the fun. It's great for kids because it's so easy to navigate and it begins with the basics then builds from there. Soren was working on German, but decided to switch to Spanish. Spencer is also learning Spanish and is doing quite well as it reinforces what he's been learning in school. We just realized that Spencer won't have room in his schedule for Spanish 3 next year, but he's committed to keep it up with duolingo instead.  

I don't get into all the social media sharing stuff, but there is a place where you can send messages to each other. Soren thinks this is pretty cool and makes sure I don't get left out...

Ah, what a funny kid! 

For the record, no one asked me to post about duolingo.com and I have nothing to gain by doing so. I'm just really impressed with it and have enjoyed my experience so far. It makes me happy. :)