I keep coming here for help. AND I get it. Which I totally love and thank each of you for your kindness.

Question though ...

My friend is teaching me ... But it is a bit slow going. (we have this odd sort of relationship, sigh, very convoluted really!) long story which I will save for another rainy day. LOL

Anyway ... I want desperately to learn russian better (and quicker) but not just the formal russian. My friend says he likes that I am trying BUT that I keep speaking to him like he is 80 years old. (SIGH)

PLUS he speaks to me where I have to "figure" out what it is he is telling me. Which that is ok, but so hard as I am not the smartest girl in the world (nor am I the dumbest) just slows me down. I am use to speaking what exactly is on my mind without mincing any words. I do not ever say something I do not mean. I don't play games, etc ... So this type of guessing and figuring out it hard. (HA ... but I LOVE challenges, and this certainly is one) AND I am trying to learn the humor in the words or way they are said.

Anyway I figure the best way to learn is to immerse myself into it, but how? Is there anyone out there willing to take on an american who really has a desire to learn with no motive behind it other than friendship? <---- that is what I feel like at the moment. hehee

So ideas? advice?