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.

I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma. ~Eartha Kitt

Two weeks ago began my return to formal eduction. For those who don't know, I'm pursuing a PhD in African Studies and International Development at Howard University. During this short time, I've met a lot of great people and have already changed my my thoughts in regards to dissertation development. Lectures, reading, and classmates have me remembering my passion for learning, for things African, for random knowledge, for life, for pondering deep things...

I was thinking today, about how quickly time passes. Cliche I know, but sometimes days or weeks go by without fun, learning, or self reflection/development. I've decided today, that in some way I'd like to make each day more than just work, dinner, and relaxation. I want to participate more in my own life, the lives of those I hold dear, and meet new people in the process.

For me it is not an issue of laziness, so much as not knowing what to pursue first. I have so many interests: travel, reading, photography, journaling, music, yoga, creativity, biking, learning to dance therapy, people, etc- but have limited time and pockets that aren't quite as deep as I'd like. The only interest that never falters for me is reading. The rest ebb and flow and take a back seat to my schedule or my mood.

Here's some inspiration...

100 Ways to a Better Life

39 Ways to Live