Creativity?

I do most of these things, but don't feel at all creative.  Caffeinated? Organized? Accomplished?  Absolutely...but creative not at all.  I've always wished I had some artistic talent-writing, poetry, painting, sketching, song writing**, etc. 

Next semester I'll have more time to advance my photography skills, and that'll have to be good enough for now.

**Major self disclosure-I did have a brief stint of song writing in the 3rd grade, I wrote my songs in a notebook that I wrote "Future Hits" on in nail polish.  My friend Melissa found it one day, I was so embarrassed that it gave her blackmail material for years to come.

Things I didn't know about water (and you may not either)

1. Bottled water isn’t safer than tap water. Last year, Environmental Working Group did a study that tested popular brands of bottled water for contamination. They found 38 different harmful chemicals, including painkillers, fertilizer and arsenic, in 10 brands of bottled water.

2. The average American’s indoor water use is about 69 gallons of water per day

3.  According to the Washington Post in 2005, “Just one flush of a toilet in the West uses more water than most Africans have to perform an entire day’s washing, cleaning, cooking and drinking.”

4.  Every day, an estimated seven billion gallons of clean drinking water leak out of pipes in the US.


5  The world is currently in a water crisis. One out of six people worldwide doesn’t have access to clean water. Every year, 2 million people die of diseases caused by a lack of clean water.

You can make a difference!

Stats via  http://www.care2.com/greenliving/25-things-you-might-not-know-about-water.html#ixzz1ZM8RPylj

Crazy weather!

The earthquake this week was my first, and although there was no major damage it left me a little shook up.  Trying to reach loved ones with phone lines down, and cell phones jammed was really frustrating...and the complete lack of preparedness of the agency I work for was unacceptable.  I can't imagine what DC would have looked like had there been major damages and needed evacuation.  Scary.

Irene, I have to admit, gave me an excuse to do absolutely nothing this weekend and I really enjoyed it. School has begun again, and although I love learning it can be overwhelming with full time work and balancing some semblance of a social life.

This coming week is a short week, as we're going to NY, Niagara Falls, and Toronto over Labor Day weekend.  I'm really looking forward to our last excursion before Fall/Winter, but a little bummed that there isn't anything else exciting in the queue and already anxious to start planning something else!!

Pretty Studio

This is so soft and feminine looking.  I'm pretty sure our new puppy would tear it up!

Found on Apartment Therapy

And coming soon....

Downtown Toronto

A visit to the Guggenheim

Beloved Niagara Falls

The High Line, Chelsea- NYC

In the midst of work, I love, love, LOVE planning.  It gives me something to look forward to, and changes up the monotony of work.  NYC this weekend, and Canada/WNY over Labor Day weekend...

What's next!?

Sweet Summer

With school a week away, I have to wonder where my entire summer went.  The saying, "time flies as you get older" is unfortunately sooo true.

A brief recap of my summer....

 

 

Saw Sade in concert, she's still looking fly!

Lake Sherwood- went real camping for the first time in my life.

 Also-

I attended several events in DC that I've wanted to do for sometime- Screen on the Green, Jazz in the Garden, went horseback riding for the first time, attended several weddings, and spent time with important people in my life. 

The busyness has added to the feeling that it went by way too fast, but looking back I'm sure it will be one of the best summer's I've ever had :D

June already!?

So now it's June already, and I can feel the summer slipping away quickly before it's begun.  My first year of doctoral studies is complete, and I am looking forward (actually) to the classes I'll be taking in the Fall (Globalization, African Political Thought, Public Policy Formation, and Policy and Health Issues in Africa).  After next semester, all that stands between me and my PhD is a mere dissertation, learning an African Language (Yoruba), brushing up on my Spanish, and comps... pish posh, right?  I think I need to get myself to the LOC as much as possible this summer (ha!).


So, I want to make the summer count: biking, camping, and hopefully a trip or two.  Grilling, new recipes, photography, learning to sew are all on my agenda. 

This week and next: Afro-Brazilian film fest, supporting a friends art @ Tryst, an architecture open house, kelewele, egusi, Star beer, horseback riding, and Sade!

Wouldn't mind sipping a nice glass of pino grigio here :)

I carry your heart.

I carry your heart with me (I carry it in my heart)



I am never without it (Anywhere I go you go, my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing, my darling)


I fear no fate (for you are my fate, my sweet)


I want no world (for beautiful you are my world, my true)


and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant


and whatever a sun will always sing is you


Here is the deepest secret nobody knows


(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud


and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows higher than soul can
hope or mind can hide)


and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart


I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart)






By E. E. Cummings 1894–1962










Enjoying some poetry.  Also on my list of things to do this summer is to learn to sew.  Stay tuned....

Futility

I'm feeling a bit frustrated at work.  Yet another exercise in futility...

Happy Earth Day!

I hope you all do your part today and everyday to take care of Mother Earth!

21 Places to See (before they disappear)

What my employer is doing to make a difference.

History of Earth Day! After an oil spill in Santa Barbara, CA 1970

Get involved in the District of Columbia :)

Spring is here!

Spring is finally here, both via the calendar and in spirit.  Nice weather gives me more incentive to be outside.  Aside from 4 research papers to complete my first year back in school (in the next two weeks, gah!), my current projects are the herbs I just planted, creating a compost container, and becoming more active outside.  I'd like to pick up jogging, bicycle more (much, much more), and take more photographs. 

Also on my Spring calendar are a: Femi Kuti concert, Arena Stage, Art & Wine, and visits to DC cupcakeries!

Testing new heights

This weekend I completed a high ropes course at Terrapin Adventures.  As a birthday present, I took Kay on an adventure that included ziplining, a "chair-swing/drop", a ropes course, and climbing tower.  From the ground, all the events seemed quite easy....with many small children completeing them alongside us.  However, once 12-40 feet in the air, it's a whole different perspective.  I stalled more than once trying to get the "gall" to jump, tightrope walk, or glide.  (the entire time being "belayed" to a rope above that would catch me if I fell).  It's amazing what you're capable of though, if you simply try.  I found I became more gallsy as the day wore on.  Despite the brief downpour/hail, I had a great time and I think Kay did too.  Chipotle and Georgetown Cupcakes followed.  :D

Out like a lion!

March came in like a lamb, but it's going out like a lion.  I'm looking forward to warmer temperatures, as well as finishing up my last 4 weeks of the semester.

Courtesy of Amber Interior Design

Since my favorite color is green, I wanted to share this lovely room complete with green ceiling beams!

Last Day in my 20's.

Today is my last day of year 29.  '30' is a milestone that many people dread, but I can't say that I feel any type of way about it.  I'll be bringing in a new decade with a visit from my mom and a dinner with my closest friends, which I am looking forward to tremendously.  It marks my 30th birthday, my mom's first visit to DC since I've lived here (almost 8 years), and the first gathering of all my close friends (from DC) in one spot. 

But today is just another day.  I'm at work.  The computers are down.  My supervisor called out sick. The people in the front lobby are exceptionally loud.  I'm planning another trip to Ikea, cleaning my apartment, and making sure I have a "to do" list for my mom's visit this evening. 

And of course, obligatory lesson's of the last decade, brought to you by the number 29:


1. Follow your own path.  It's great to look for others for guidance and inspiration, but no two people have the same story, path, aspirations.  Don't compare yourself to others, it only hinders your journey.
2. Get out of your own way. Repeating the same behaviors will result in the same outcome.  Have faith in your abilities.  We are all capable of greatness.

3. The older you get, the faster time goes.  Don't waste it.
4. Listen to your mother. Unless she's got a case of attention seeking/overbearing behavior.
5. If you don’t like it, you can leave. An unhappy relationship, a stupid movie, a boring conversation, a crappy spin class. Life is so, so short.
6. Get that dirt off your shoulder. You'll make mistakes.  People will wrong you.  Get back up and try again.

7. Be social and respectful.  Smile at people when you pass them on the street.  Learn about other cultures.  Tolerate those different from you. 
8. Be brave enough to say the hard things. Especially Thank you and I’m sorry. Life is short.

9. Let go of grudges. (very difficult for me) A friend sent me a quote the other day that said : "Forgiveness is giving up the hope that the past could have been any different."

10. When you listen, try to let go of what you’re going to say next. Just listen.  Take it from a therapist, listening is a key quality of a friendship. 
11. Wear shoes you can walk in.  Heels make my second toe on my left foot go numb, and that can't be good.  Also, I've had a few miserable nights at the club hobbling around, and it's not a good look.

12. Keep an open mind. About everything: new people, politics, ideas, travel, food, clothes, music, sex, high art, low art, etc. You never know where the road will lead. 

13. Be careful with credit cards.  7 years can be a really long time.

14. Be honest about who YOU are. 
15. Work is like a relationship. You spend most of your time (as an American) at work.  Pick something you enjoy, and can grow in. 
16. Speak carefully. Words can very hurtful.

What did you learn in your 20's???

Capturing imagination

Highlights from the weekend :D

I had quite a low key, enjoyable weekend.

Delicious Fried Chicken - and plenty of sides.

A movie, Ezra, required for my Language, Literature, and Arts in Africa class about child soldier's in Sierra Leone.

A cozy glass of wine from SOVA, complete with art and a card game.

SNL and Charlie Sheen recent nonsense. I have to admit also, Mylie did a pretty good impression of Bieber.

And plenty of snuggles under my new comforter.

Happy Birthday Ghana!

Today marks one year from the day I volunteered in Ghana.  Three short weeks brought me a lifetime of memories and friendships.  I look forward to returning (some day soon).  Some of my favorite photos from my trip :)

In turning 30...

I've never really thought about what exactly I wanted to have accomplished by age 30.  In googling the topic, I learned that several bloggers have very detailed lists about what they intend to accomplish.  With just over 2 weeks remaining, I think it's a little unrealistic to create a list of 101 things.

In briefly reflecting today, I've thought about the things I have accomplished...

I've come to appreciate my mother as more than just my mother, but as a woman and as a friend.  I've listened to her life lessons, and come to respect her more than ever.

I've loved and been loved; unconditionally.

I've completed my BA, 2 MA's, and am working on my PhD.

I've acquired a group of friends, new and old, that I can truly call upon for anything.

I've held really fulfilling jobs, and think I might have helped a few people along the way.  And in helping them, I learned a lot about myself- my strengths, expectations, and limitations.

I've lived in a city for 7 years, that can sometimes be heartbreaking and frustrating, but I still find enjoyment and beauty almost daily.

I've traveled to other countries, and really appreciate the ability to have done so.  If I am to create a bucket list, this would be one of my biggest goals continuing.

I hope my 30's bring me continued closeness with my loved ones, success in my career and doctoral studies, and more travel.

DC Bag Fee = Success

It's been a year since DC implemented it's 5 cent bag fee in all stores that sell food. 

Prior to the legislation, District grocery stores sent 22.5 million plastic bags out their doors every month. Now the number is closer to 3 million and expected to continue to decrease. Studies of the Anacostia and its tributary systems suggest that there are now 66% fewer plastic bags clogging up the river. (And plastic bags make up 20-45% of the total litter.)

                              

  Life is not convenient; love is not convenient.

Come Away, My Love

Poem by Joseph Karinki


Come away, my love from streets
Where mankind eyes divide,
And show windows reflect our difference.
In the shelter of my faithfull room rest
There, safe from opinions, being behind
Myself, I can see only you;
And in my dark eyes your grey will dissolve
The candlelight throws
Two dark shadows on the wall
Which merge into one as I close beside you
When at last the lights are not,
And I feel your hand in mine,
Two human breaths join in one,
And the piano weaves
Its unchallenged harmony.

(An African man finds himself in love with a white woman.)

Spring is on it's way!

It's supposed to reach 60 degrees twice this week in the District! :)

Cherry Blossom Festival 2010

Another reason to love Friday...

1/2  Day Friday!  This is going to add to the reasons why this job blows my last out of the water..

Pedi, mani, and errands begin @ noon! :)

I heart Adventures!

Find this print here.

Working across the River

I have to admit when I first took the job here in Anacostia, I thought I would be at a loss for places to eat and entertain myself during breaks.  I have been pleasantly surprised!  This week, the "Lobster truck" and "Curbside Cupcake"came to MLK Ave, and my coworkers have introduced me to several area cafe's and businesses. I'm looking forward to checking them out.

In case you're curious about what's around here - check it out here.

And who can forget "The Big Chair".

Some of this...

+

and then 

starts tomorrow! :D

Ode to My Stinky Dog

My "Zay-Zay", "Stinkybutt", "Boobedy-boo" aka the doggy love of my life was put to sleep yesterday after 15 years of providing me and my mother with unconditional love, affection, smiles, begging for food ;), and companionship.  He will be forever loved and missed, and never replaced.  Here's to Isiah:

The reason why dogs are man's best friend

Is that they are faithful to the end.


They do not lie or cheat or steal,
As many of your human friends will.

They do not fight and hold a grudge,
Nor do they criticize or judge.


Dogs love you no matter how you look-
You are always top notch in their book.


Tell them your secrets, they'll listen all day
And never repeat a word that you say.


A dog will love you for just who you are,
Not the size of your waist or the make of your car.


Unlike most people, dogs are honest and real-
They'll always let you know just how they feel.


There is nothing as pure as the love from a dog,
Whether arriving home from work or taking a jog.


Your dog will be right there at your side,
Just delighted to be along for the ride.


They do not ask for much in return from you,
Just your unconditional love and affection will do!

Last week at Green Door!

It took several interviews, applications, and months to find a new job.  I'm feeling really good about my next step!  Cheers to enjoying my last week at Green Door!

Cali4nia

I hate to admit it, but I had a great time in California last week.  My visit included catching up with Sass and Susan for brunch on the Venice boardwalk, checking out a taping of Chelsea Lately (where we were harassed by her security guards), eating copious amounts of guacamole, and walking through the historical district of LA.  The adventure continued when Susan and I got in my rental car and headed down the coast to San Diego.  After checking in, we grabbed dinner in Little Italy and drinks in the GasLamp Quarter.  The next day we were joined by Michelle and checked the local farmers market and then headed to Balboa Park, which has 14 different museums, several gardens, and an artist's alley.  Then we drove to La Jolla to catch the sunset (it was beautiful).  My last day in San Diego consisted of sleeping in, and heading to Carmel Valley to the Grand Del Mar for my friends wedding.  It was perfect-location, weather, decor.

Here are some of my favorite pics from the trip:)

Countdown!

I have a 2 day work week before jetting off to LA to catch up with the 2 ladies I met in Ghana almost a year ago.  I can't believvvveeee it's been a year!

Sasha, Susan, and I "highlife  dancing".

After spending a few days in LA, I'll be driving to San Diego to attend a friends wedding.  I'm sure it will be gorgeous. This is the venue.   I'll have a few days to explore the area, and experiment with my new camera :D.

A bigger countdown still is my last 3 weeks at Green Door.  I'm already starting to lose my steam and motivation, but I want to be sure to end on a good note.  I meet with my new supervisor tomorrow to discuss expectations and such of Bread for the City.  I'm really looking forward to this new chapter.

Meanwhile, class has resumed.  This semester my courses include: Language, Literature, and the Arts (in Africa), Gender Studies, Scope and Methods (yawn, boo, hiss), and NGO's.  There is a TON of reading, and rather than writing here, going to a movie, and running all over Ikea today, that's what I should have spent my day doing.  I'll get right to that.........zzzzzzzz.

New Beginnings!

2010 was full of reflection, growth, challenges, travel, and well, challenges :s (that's an emoticon for confusion).  While I don't expect 2011 to be challenge free, I do hope that the challenges lead to a smarter, more able me.

I'm starting 2011 off on a positive note, having just accepted a new position yesterday.  It will allow me the opportunity to grow professionally, and will be a much needed change after almost 9 years of "case management".  I've really enjoyed my time with GD, have met some amazing, strong co workers, because let's be honest it takes a strong person to take on a job like this, and have learned so much from some demanding/grateful/humble/depressed/psychotic/strong consumer's I've had the opportunity to work with.

School begins in 2 days, and I'll be taking 4 classes this semester, one in the summer, and that will leave only 4 classes remaining for the Fall to complete my PhD coursework, after that, I'll **only** have my dissertation.

Travel is on my agenda for 2011 as well.  So far, all that I have secured is Israel in May, oh and California in 2 weeks, but I'm hoping to add more to the list.

I've been uninspired to write much lately, but I'm hoping that the changes with employment and new semester starting stir up some creative juices.