TravelStream™ news feed for member smiling_nomad on TravelPod's free travel blogs service http://www.travelpod.com/syndication/rss/smiling_nomad en-us Copyright ©2009 TravelPod.com Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:39:52 -0400 http://www.travelpod.com http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1253083220/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1253083220/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1253083220/tpod.html Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:39:52 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Simi Valley, California, United States

There was nothing special about the day. The weather wasn't particularly nice. He didn’t have a lunch scheduled or a reason to leave the office. Still, Mr. Mwangi just felt a strong desire to take a walk. Coworkers stopped him in the hallway to ask him questions and to press him to join a meeting in one of the board rooms, but he maintained his stride for the door.

Once outside and hundreds of yards away from his building, he suddenly heard a loud pop. As he turned to look at where the sound came from, the entire building exploded in front of him. It was the 7th of August, 1998. The office next door to his and the intended target of the bombing was the American Embassy. With the exception of one other coworker, everyone in Mr. Mwangi’s office perished that day.

Even now, Mr. Mwangi can’t explain why he felt the need to leave his office. He had never taken a walk in the middle of a morning. In fact, he rarely left the building for matters unrelated to his job. That day, though, he just 'felt different'. He says he felt pushed by something or someone. He is insistent that it was not coincidence or luck that was responsible for the pushing. He merely believes he wasn’t meant to die that day.

When I heard Mr. Mwangi's story, I was sitting with 200 children in an orphanage at the edge of the Rift Valley. I was in the birthplace of Obama’s biological father, the country of Karen Blixen’s Ngong Hills, and the home of over 40 different African tribes. I had long since filled my "wow" quota for the week, much more so for the past year in Jamaica, England and now, Kenya.

Just arriving in Africa again was a “wow” moment. On a superficial (cue: childlike wonder) level, a wild animal park lines the Nairobi airport. Therefore, as you arrive or depart from the country, giraffes and members of the Big Five greet you or see you off. It brings a whole new meaning to the word or concept of 'hospitality'. Though I arrived in the evening and left in the evening, unable to see these famed residents, I could imagine long-necked herbivores gracefully nodding in the general direction of planes overhead and lions raising their manes from the belly of a recent kill to acknowledge visitors coming or going.

Silly? Sure. Childish? Of course. But, “wow” material? Definitely.

For the most part, I kept my wonder-filled imagination to myself as the driver drove away from the airport. Though I secretly wished that I had brought my glasses from home as I strained to see shapes in the shadows, I hadn’t come to the country to watch impressive wild creatures beyond landing strip lights and tarmac. It was just an added and incredible bonus. As mentioned in the previous entry (IDP Camps in Kenya and Reason for Hope), I had been sent to the country by World Emergency Relief to perform an audit of an orphanage near the town of Naivasha and to facilitate strategic planning seminars with the director of the associated centre/compound.

I arrived on the compound to 200 children singing alongside the path of the car, and spent the next ten days meeting with government officials, conducting surveys with the staff and adolescent children, working on a 10-year vision with the director of the orphanage, interviewing IDP camp residents, lending a hand with daily activities, and even milking my first cow and goat. :)

In the evenings, I would work on reports and tally surveys performed earlier in the day. When I found it difficult to sleep, I would work on speeches for the days ahead or edit my dissertation. Often, this would involve Joan Baez on my IPod. All in all, the combination of Baez, dissertation drafts, speeches, and M&E reports while sitting within a few hundred yards of a night watchman pacing the compound’s periphery with a poison-tipped arrow was definitely a surreal experience. ;)

Another surreal experience happened the next week after I returning to England, when I submitted the final draft of the dissertation. I (honestly) still can't believe that it is actually finished. ;) So far, an international development agency has requested copies of the final (copyrighted) version to use as a framework for its orphan care programs around the world, and a child welfare program has contacted me about writing an article for their national publication. I truly can't believe it and am incrediblygrateful for how things have turned out with the paper. Regardless of its final grade, it is fulfilling to know that the paper will be of use to practitioners in the field.

My last full day in the United Kingdom included turning in the final bound copies, picking up last minute prescriptions (go NHS!), purchasing UK to US adaptors/converters, posting packages home, packing for the flight, and saying goodbye to good friends. ;) I went to bed at 2 in the morning and woke up a few hours later for the flight. A close friend stayed the night, helping me pack and move last minute things. I was really glad to not be alone.

When the taxi arrived at half-past five the next morning, the next door grocers (also known as my unexpected companions along the dissertation trail during those final months) were just receiving their fresh fruits and vegetables for the day. With their 15x30’ shop’s never-ending supply of caffeinated drinks, they deserved part of the credit for my dissertation being finished, and I was particularly happy to have a chance to say goodbye to them.

When the taxi driver tried to purchase a newspaper from them, the gruffer of the two shoved an edition under his arm and insisted, “No charge! She [pointing in my direction] is a preferred customer.” I laughed, unable to have asked for a nicer send-off, and hugged each of them goodbye. Though I was just one of their customers and they were just my local grocers, their gesture confirmed what I already felt: It was more than that. The same can be said of this past year. It was more than a graduate program. It was more than a year abroad. It was more than working in three countries.

Less than twenty-four hours after the taxi ride to Heathrow, I arrived back in the States to a new President, smokey California skies, Toto - the Wonder Dog, friends, family, and a freezer stacked with a record-breaking season of apple and boysenberry pies. :) So far, it has been good to be home.

It is now officially September 16th, and I just turned 34. :)

For the past week, my sister has been asking me for ideas for presents, but I haven’t been able to provide her with any. Save a job (;)), I don’t need anything. I just spent the past year, studying and going to school. I had the chance to pound out papers alongside passionate and intelligent peers in a graduate program, to be challenged by professors I respected. I had the opportunity to work alongside dedicated practitioners who provided examples of what I can strive to be in the field. I met youth who continue to inspire me to push harder for human rights and improved universal child welfare. I gained great friends, mentors and role models of all ages. I had the opportunity to fall in love with a dissertation that will now see the shores of three continents.

Ask for anything this year…? ;)
What could I possibly ask for?

Thank you for your support this past year and for making this journey possible. I can’t express my gratitude enough. You have made this experience a perpetual “wow” moment. I am indebted.

Onto the next adventure...and with sincere appreciation,
:)
Heather
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1253081638/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1253081638/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1253081638/tpod.html Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:16:26 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Naivasha, Kenya

The clouds gathered as we drove towards the IDP camp. The last leg of the 1.5 hour trip was taken on foot after the road was deemed too rough for the hired car. 10 of us had fit into the four-seater, causing every large boulder to scrape against its belly. We joked about how one of us should have skipped a meal.

It was my sixth day in Kenya. I had been sent by World Emergency Relief to a small community centre near Naivasha to perform an audit of its orphanage, and to facilitate a seminar on long-term strategic planning with the centre's director. That morning, I had been asked to join the director and a small group of children from the orphanage at an IDP camp to assist in distributing food to 200+ refugee families.

The families had been displaced after disputes over the results of the 2007 Kenyan presidential elections had triggered national unrest and bloodshed between the country’s ethnic lines. Ultimately, over a thousand perished and hundreds of thousands lost their homes in the wake of the political event. At the peak of the violence, an entire church was burned to the ground after hundreds fled to the building for safety. For an in-depth look at the crisis and the impact that it has had on the nation, please visit: http://www.irinnews.org/IndepthMain.aspx?IndepthId=68&ReportId=76116].

That morning, as the sky continued to swell and bruise, steaming kettles poured cup after cup of milky tea for the refugees, and coolers stacked with thick triangles of sweet mandazi bread were placed at the end of the distribution table. Woven 90 kilogram bags of maize and beans were untied, and old plastic pails were dug into their contents in preparation for the first recipients.

A line of men, women and children holding empty sacks bent around the church compound. Each individual wore multiple layers of clothing and most carried infants on their backs. A light rain started to fall, but no one moved from their position in line. All remained steady, silent and patient. One woman, acting as the spokesperson of the group, insisted on being the last to receive food.

"I don’t fill my bag, until everyone else has. I don’t want anyone to think I have special privileges here as the spokesperson or leader of the group. If someone comes to me saying that they didn’t receive their share, I can honestly say, 'Neither did I’."

Earlier in the morning, she had shared her story of being driven from her home after the elections. She had been cooking in her kitchen when she had heard screaming outside. As she went to see what the problem was, a relative rushed in suddenly, yelling that her house was on fire. She and her family escaped, but once outside, rescuing the house and its contents were not options. Those that had set fire to her home followed her family, driving them out of the area. Her voice waivered and started to rise, as she wiped the tears streaming down her cheeks.

"I nearly lost my son. I had to step in front of an arrow that was meant for him. Our house, everything was lost. I fled without even shoes on my feet."

The refugees at the camp spoke of packs of rival political parties (closely associated with opposing tribes), moving through their villages, setting homes on fire, and murdering those that didn’t align with their political party or tribe. At the IDP camp that day, it was common to hear "I lost my son (husband, wife, daughter....) two years ago." It was also common to hear that the perpetrators of the violence were once neighbors and old friends, a feature reminiscent of the Rwandan genocide. Two years after the election, tears still run down the creases of faces. The pain is still evident. The wounds have yet to heal.

Despite that many of their villages have enhanced their security since the elections, returning home is often not considered an option for the IDP. The refugees do not feel safe returning to their homes and living alongside the neighbours that destroyed their livelihood or killed their family members. Turning ‘the other cheek’ is considered foolish. Too many are concerned that they will be at risk again, and that their homes or land will be threatened.

Therefore, many of the farms and homes of the refugees remain vacant and unused (protected by local police forces until their return). The cultivation of maize (a crop produced by much of the refugee population) is at a national low, due to them not having land to safely cultivate. This and the drought has propelled the government to provide supplementary assistance to its citizens. However, as the refugees are currently residing on other people’s lands, they are not considered part of the national census and are, thus, considered unapplicable for such aid.

Originally, the government also promised the refugees monetary assistance to rebuild their homes/businesses, purchase new land and/or feed their families. As most have still yet to receive this from the administration - nearly two years later - many believe that Kenya has forgotten them.

In the end, it is easy to say who is at fault for the individual crimes that took place. The victims know the perpetrators. They are their neighbours and (what they thought of once as) friends. It is not easy or fair to blame a particular tribe more than another, as many are at fault. Some acts of bloodshed were unprovoked. Some were performed in fear of violence; some in retaliation. Regardless, most blame the politicians for inciting the violence, and encouraging a tribal backlash. Many even believe that the murders and displacements were planned a year before the election by members of the political parties, themselves.

As I filled a pail with beans and emptied it into a passing individual’s sack, I watched as young men and women shuffled forward in line. Hearing their stories earlier in the day and seeing them there now, it was evident that the months and years of disappointment had pressed a sense of hopelessness onto the gathered crowd. Regardless if they unexpectedly receive more aid from an international source tomorrow, support from the government next month or hope for a source of steady income next year (ultimately, a chance to begin a new life!), the elections of 2012 still loom on the horizon. Many believe that violence will erupt again in the country, and offset anything gained.

That said, there is still reason for hope. Amidst the horror-filled stories of the violence they have endured, there are stories of good Samaritans, of individuals that (regardless of their tribal background) offered refuge, transportation, food, shoes or blankets to families fleeing from their communities. There are stories of property being protected by those of opposing tribes, just because it was the right thing to do. There are stories of friends remaining friends, and of neighbours still helping their neighbours.

The orphanage is an example of what the future can hold for the country. Comprised of multiple tribes, several of the children are even from post-election. “We are one Kenya,” they say. “We are one Kenya.” But, they do more than offer merely an example. For two days each week, the 200+ residents of the centre's orphanage participate in a fast to provide food to individuals less fortunate in their local community. On Wednesday, they go without lunch, while on Friday, they go without both breakfast and lunch. The uneaten resources from these fasts provide 200 IDP families with a week’s worth of food each month, and 60 HIV+ mothers with even more. With the food they provide each week, they help families survive. They help individuals get one day closer to a new beginning, to a new country, to a new life.

As one IDP said, “Yes, horrible things have happened, and people we love are no longer here, but WE are still here. We are still here two years later. Despite what we have endured, WE are still here. That is reason alone for hope.”

Beyond the monthly food distribution, plans are underway to further help the communities displaced by the post-election violence of 2007. If you desire to be a part of the solution, contact World Emergency Relief – UK at www.wer-uk.org. (It is important to ensure that you are contacting the UK office, rather than the US office, as they have different international partners.) The monetary support you provide can help their Kenyan international partner offer the refugees with support – be that land, food, a source of income - - ultimately, a source of hope.

Tell them Sister Heather sent you, and through your donation, tell the children, mothers, grandparents of post-election Kenya that they are not forgotten.
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1246141367/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1246141367/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1246141367/tpod.html Sat, 27 Jun 2009 21:44:50 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Doolin, County Clare, Ireland

The stacks of long wooden boxes appear, at first, like dresser drawers. The masked personnel in biohazard suits, long orange gloves and knee-high hazmat boots weave in between stacks of bloated plastic bags and soda bottles filled with smoke-topped incense. It is beyond disturbing to see tourists with camcorders amidst them, their bright fluorescent tank-tops and flip flops, recording plastic bag after long box.

Last week, I spent several hours cataloguing photographs from the 2004 tsunami for World Emergency Relief (WER). Along with appraising 2009-2010 funding proposals and reviewing progress reports for WER's relief programs, I’ve been implementing the purchase and use of a media library to catalogue photographs from their efforts overseas.

Last Wednesday, I found myself in Sri Lanka staring at a house ripped open, its living room fan still affixed to the ceiling as it leaned at a 45-degree angle...at a military ship tucked in between trees...a van on top of a roof...a car bent in half, its trunk sitting on its hood...notice boards and community walls papered with crumpled pictures of smiling wives, brothers, fathers, daughters and handwritten notes: If you have seen ____, please call.

Like most of the world, I read the articles that December, and I saw the television reports of the disaster directly after it had happened. I can still vividly recall scenes of the torrent rushing in through buildings and carrying cars, homes and people away. But, the photographs I sifted through last week revealed the uncensored story of what happened when the water had long-since receded, and when repairs and recovery had begun.

WER was there in Sri Lanka to provide emergency relief, as they have been for disaster situations around the world for the past 14 years. On any given day, the agency is also providing long-term support (in-kind or monetarily) to locally-run projects in over 15 countries. Be it reviewing progress reports, assessing proposals or creating a media library for them, I have been proud to work for such an organization. The commitment and dedication of the staff, the agency’s relational (rather than hierarchical) approach to international partnerships, and the innovativeness of its fundraising team have both educated and moved me on a regular basis.

WER is sending me to Kenya this August, to perform an evaluation of their current projects and to work on a strategic plan with their Kenyan partner. It is a great opportunity and one that has never been offered to an intern at the agency. In considering the trip and the tools that may be useful for it, I am reminded of Swaziland. I am reminded of Lithuania, and I’m reminded of Jamaica, and I am both very excited and honoured.

By the time I leave for Kenya, my dissertation will be completed. Following my return from Africa, I will be packing my bags for home and this scholastic journey will be over. It is hard to believe that only two more months exist between then and now. That said, much has happened since I last wrote....

Classes, BBQs and Sudanese President al-Bashir

I passed all of my classes. :) Though I’m still working on the dissertation, all of my classes are officially over and we just received our final marks. I was pleased with my grades, but was particularly excited about a mark I received in our Global Governance course – a 95% (U.S. grading equivalent) on a presentation about the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its recent arrest warrant for Sudanese President al-Bashir. I had loved researching the topic, and after delivering the presentation, had even contacted the producer and director of a related ICC documentary to see how I could obtain a copy of the film. The producer of the film not only wrote back, but sent a director’s cut of the documentary to me in the UK. To show the film, my roommate and I will be hosting a BBQ in the coming weeks. 'Am very much looking forward to it.

Life Above a Bridal Shop

Speaking of roommates, I moved. I now live in a place called Sheen in a flat above a bridal shop (the latter giving my mom great hope - ;)). I have two roommates, Jess (a music PR representative for Love Music/Hate Racism) and Bex (a film editor), and am staying in the room that (up until a few months ago) housed the lead guitar player for the UK band, The Noisettes. My roommates are great – unique, quick to laugh, creative, fun, quirky, unpretentious, welcoming, smart and generous. BBQs in the back garden, music events, movie/pub nights are not unusual at 15 Sheengate, but my roommates have also been very understanding about my need to bow out for research/writing time (which, lately, has been often). All in all, I couldn’t have happened upon a better living situation.

Egg Race Results: Unscrambled

A few folks have asked about the "egg race". ;) I'm still finding it hard to believe, but we finished the 10K race. National coverage of the event included multiple minutes of my colleague (Natalie or Gnat, the chicken) and I (the egg) running together and having a chance to voice our support for WER and its chicken farm project in Kenya, which was wonderful for the agency/cause. I had never run a 10K, much less a 10K through the centre of a major city. Running past Buckingham Palace alongside thousands of other participants (be they dressed as 8-foot trees for an environmental issue or bananas for a fair-trade cause) was incredible, and I would definitely consider running a half-marathon for an agency in the future.

Dripping in Ireland/Surfing in Wales

Right after finals, I was able to squeeze in a trip with my friend, Krissy to Ireland (which was fantastic) and a surfing trip to Wales with my friend, October (also, great!). The latter involved water warmer than the San Francisco coast during the day-time, and a hike down a cliff with 7-foot boards for a great sunset surf that lasted well into the evening. (Due to it being light so late here, we were able to surf well past 9pm.)

The former was, weather-wise, a far different experience. It rained nearly the entire time we were in Ireland, and sometimes, touched down into the 40’s. Despite the weather, Krissy and I were determined to make it to the famed traditional music hub, Doolin, though and to hike around the Cliffs of Moher (also known as the “Cliffs of Insanity!” in Princess Bride). So, with waterproof backpacks, we took to the road (via public transit, hitching and walking).


Doolin didn’t disappoint. Beyond the adventure of hoofing it along the edges of the incredibly beautiful cliffs, we spent our time peering into the cracks and miniature eco-worlds of the Burren plains, snacking on granola bars and carrots atop rocky black precipices that jutted out over the Atlantic swell, wading through cow-dung marshes, sneaking past bulls in local fields and warming up with bowls of Irish Stew and traditional tunes in one of the three local pubs in town. Most of the time, we were soaked from head to toe, cold, grinning and laughing...and at times, even singing old 80’s pop songs on deserted country roads to pass the time. It was a great trip.

One of the best parts of the holiday occurred in a place called Ennis. We had happened upon the town on a stopover on our way to Doolin. While there, we had eaten lunch, wandered aimlessly around town for a good cider/Guinness, and then, found ourselves in front of a beautiful church. We weren’t sure if we should go in at first, as it looked too dark inside, but a gentleman (walking in behind us) encouraged us to come in, and said that we were welcome to stay.

The gentleman had returned to Ennis to go to his primary school reunion that weekend. It had been 50 years since he had been in the sanctuary. His mother used to be the organist at the church, and had taught him how to play when he was a child. As he told us all of this, he sat down at the organ, opened up one of the hymnals and started to play. Tune after tune poured out into the room, filling the space (from vaulted ceiling to stained glass window to grey stone floor) with memories from our own childhoods and our own churches back home. In that darkened sanctuary, with only the light from the stained glass windows around us, Krissy and I just sat there, smiling and nostalgic.

Soon, the church’s actual organist arrived, and played a few hymns as well as the score from The Mission. ;) Then, the rector stopped by and gave Krissy and I a tour of the church building, providing detailed histories on who painted each mural, and how the stained glass windows had survived so many years. In the end, Krissy and I spent over two hours at church that day, and nearly missed our bus to Doolin. As we later made our way past the green rolling hills of that beautiful country, we both agreed that it was, by far, one of the highlights of the trip

The Dissertation

Since then, I've been working on my dissertation, “18 with AIDS: A study into the transitional
services available for HIV+ orphans aging out of residential care in Jamaica”. It is a very exciting time, but it is also quite nerve-wracking. As my advisor is going on vacation during the month of August, I will need to finish my dissertation a month early. Therefore, time is quite
limited. Half of me wishes I had more time and was able to spend another year, just writing the paper and digging farther into the subject matter. The other half of me is excited to finish it and see how it is used. All of me is simply happy to be working on a topic that matters. :)



So, in the end...life, for now, is the following:

* Finishing the Dissertation

* Working at WER

* Preparing for the Work Trip to Kenya

* Biking/Climbing/Events in the City (Much Ado in the Park, etc.)

* Baking Cookies – LOTS of them. I bake to clear my mind and to boost my energy from time to time. So far, in the past 2.5 weeks, I’ve baked 9 batches of cookies – ;). I’ve graduated from the “just add water” mixes to a banana cupcake-like cookie recipe with buttercream frosting (a new favourite, due to my friend, Karen and Land O’ Lakes - ;)).

* Looking for a Job in the San Francisco/Oakland/Sacramento Area--
I am currently seeking a program manager position within an international relief and development organization. I have already started contacting agencies and doing preliminary job searches. Considering the current economic situation, it is definitely a challenging job market, but I’m excited about entering into it and seeing how I can be of service to an agency.

If you or anyone you know can recommend contacts, great organizations, or networking opportunities in the international relief and development field, I would be indebted. My resume has been updated and is available, upon request.

Especially now, it is not so much what you know, as who you know. Therefore, thank you, in advance, for your help!

Love,
Heather
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1240408740/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1240408740/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1240408740/tpod.html Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:51:36 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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London, England, United Kingdom

Dear Friends and Family:
More so than in Jamaica, life across the pond revolves around more than courses and textbooks. It involves lectures at the Houses of Parliament, addresses about the impact of climate change measures on developing countries, presentations by Israeli government advisors about the Gaza strip, discussions with grassroots activists about local protests, and tours through the House of Commons chambers. Instead of being centred on one country, course material has broadened to encompass global perspectives, current events, international governance...and a daily consumption of acronyms (IMF, UNDP, EU, FAO, WTO, DFID, USAID, WFP, UNICEF, ICC, ICJ, etc.).

Specifically, the UK programme has involved both a really engaging course load (Classes: Development Studies, Global Governance, Project Management, Structure and Management of Not-for-Profit Organisations, Reflection on Service Learning) and a great internship at World Emergency Relief (or WER, http://www.wer-uk.org/content/home). The latter has provided the opportunity for me to apply the theories we have debated in our courses, and to see how an international aid agency supports community-led projects in over 15 countries. WER's focus on sustainable aid and their relational (rather than hierarchical) approach with their community partners has made quite an impression on me. Their programmes around the world deal with child safety/housing, social services, education and safe water/food. My job as an intern, among other activities, has been to review future project proposals for funding. I have really enjoyed this task and working with the WER team. They are a great group of people that are dedicated and passionate about their work. The director of the UK office claims that they are "a serious group of people that don't take themselves too seriously", which (as is evident by the picture on the right) seems just about right. :)

Otherwise, it would be really difficult to share everything that has happened during this semester, thus far. In a great way, there is simply too much to say. So, instead, the highlights and a slew of photographs from the UK are included below. :)

A FEW UK FAVOURITES:

Favourite Foods: Toasted Hot Cross Buns Oozing with Melted British Butter, Oven-toasted Cheese-covered Crumpets, Tea with Milk, White Coffee, Caramel Shortcakes, Baked Chicken Kiev, White Chocolate Magnum Ice Cream Bars
Favourite Phrases: "What a country bumpkin!" "Hey, Love!"

FAVOURITE/MOST INTERESTING EXPERIENCES, SO FAR:

** Touring the House of Parliament with my fellow classmates. It was so fascinating to stand in the room where Robin Cook declared his resignation in reaction to the UK's pending involvement in the Iraq war; to learn about Lenthal and his defiant and incredibly brave act against Charles I, and to witness the current-day superstitious acts of members of the House of Commons rubbing the feet of Churchill or Thatcher. Standing amidst so much history gave me goose bumps. :)

** Providing group and solo presentations at Roehampton University about the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and World Emergency Relief.

** Attending classes. Though multiple papers (and the dissertation) are still due, formal lectures have ended and I already miss them. Our professors were great and the course material has just made me yearn to learn more.

** Participating in extracurricular events and forums about global issues. On a weekly basis, we receive notices of events happening about development and international humanitarian issues. Usually, the presentations are delivered by high-end officials, government advisors or grassroots activists. Such events have provided wonderful opportunities to gain perspectives beyond textbooks and newspaper headlines. It's been really exciting! :)

** Biking into the City for the first time, and passing "There's Big Ben, Kids" just as the clock struck 13:00. It was, at that point, my longest bike ride, and my first time heading into London by the city streets instead of the Tube. When Big Ben struck as I rounded the corner, it felt as if the clock was welcoming me into London. :) It was great!


** Watching the presidential inauguration from overseas, and laughing at a participant's comment from Washington: I came because I wanted to make absolutely sure Bush had gone. :D

** Remaining in contact with the Programme Director and children of DTC (the orphanage in Jamaica), and reviewing the fieldwork collected in country about the adult-preparation services for HIV-positive orphans transitioning out of residential care. A national child welfare magazine recently requested an article regarding the subject for the fall, which is really wonderful. I'm thrilled about the opportunity to spread awareness about the issue.

** Volunteering for my first Monday night homeless walk in Central London. Organised by multiple churches in the area, small groups of volunteers are sent out onto the streets to provide clothing, blankets, and warm cups of tea/coffee to those in need. Each week, updates are sent to each volunteer about the individuals on the street (i.e., Sophie thinks her job interview went well, Joseph is hoping his application to the shelter is accepted, Pawel is in need of a warm blanket and size 9 shoes, etc.) and efforts are made to not only fill each person's needs but to advise on available social services. It was a privilege to volunteer with this group of people, and to meet the men and women on the street. Without a doubt, I plan on participating with them again.

** Signing up for my first 10K race and committing to run the entire length in a 5' egg costume. (Yes, you read that right. ;)) I'll be running to promote the "Be a Good Egg" fundraiser for World Emergency Relief (http://www.beagoodegg.com/video/). Countdown to the race/Amount of time left to train: 6 weeks. Current distance I can run: 2+ miles. Racing companion: A fellow co-worker dressed as a 6' chicken. Wish me luck on May 25th. Am hoping to prove (once and for all) that the egg actually did come before the chicken...or at worst, not to be scrambled by the end of the event. ;)



** Experiencing my first official snow days! Waking up to a silent, beautiful world of white powder and seeing the community respond to the city-wide transit halt with suburban snowmen, snowball fights and sledding.

** Biking through the first snowfall (earlier in the week) and thinking it was ash from a nearby fire (You can take the girl from California, but you can't take California from the girl.)



** Sledding (or, "sledging") down Wimbledon Commons Hill with friends, Will and Debbie, in a car roof luggage box lid. It was either that or a tea tray (the only other option for a sled in town). ;)

** Watching Manchester United play at Fulham Football Club Stadium. Many of the Man-U players have already played at World Cup or are slated to participate in the international competition in 2010. It was incredible to watch that level of soccer live. Dad, as one of my first coaches, I wish you had been there!



** Surfing in the Atlantic! :) It definitely wasn't the warm coast of Cali, but it was still a blast to surf on a 7'6" in Newquay (Cornwall) in April with a new group of crazy London friends, and Putsborough (Devon) in January with my friend, Tom.




** Photographing the G-20 protest from the frontlines. This was a fascinating experience. The afternoon protest was a combination of disappointment and inspiration. The few people that cared combined with those that thrived on chaos. Police cornered off the exits, and prevented anyone from leaving the area for 4+ hours, making the environment thick with tension. While effigies of bankers were torched and signs damned consumerism, many participants littered the area with their McDonalds and Starbucks wrappers. The irony was thick. I took a lot of pictures (many of which are below), and met several really well-intentioned and good people (both protestors and police officers). I later heard that the morning events were much more effective and organised. It was particularly interesting to read the editorials about the event, and to hear the perspectives of those that weren't in attendance. In the end, I was very glad that I went.

** Providing a presentation about the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its recent arrest warrant for Sudanese President al-Bashir to my Global Governance class. It was an assignment that had consumed me for weeks (please refer to entry titled "What I've Forgot to Mention: I'm a Nerd" - ;)). I was very excited about the topic, but was quite nervous about delivering it. I highly respected the instructor and had found the course very challenging. To have him approach me at the end of class to say that it was "excellent", was one of the more proud moments I have ever had scholastically.



** Reaching for V-2 holds with my friend, Dawn, at an indoor climbing gym near London Bridge each week, and failing miserably at Tuesday pub quiz with my friends, Will, Rich and Debbie. ;)




** Being visited by Mom and Erin! :) I could exclaim how much fun our tours were of the Churchill Museum/Cabinet War Rooms (It's Bunker Time!), Windsor Castle (to visit the Queen), the Tower of London (for the Ceremony of the Keys), or the streets of Scotland Yard (in search of Ripper clues). I could also happily rattle on about how much we enjoyed traditional High Tea, or nights out to see the musical "Chicago" or the British comedy, "The Boat That Rocks". I could...but the best thing about their visit was just being with them, regardless of where we went. The only thing missing: Toto, the Wonder Dog. If they could've stored him in their carry-on luggage and brought him along, it would've been perfect. ;)

Only four more papers lie between the official end of the semester and I. They are all due within the next two weeks and following their completion, I will be working on solely the dissertation.

It is hard to believe that so many months have passed since I arrived in December, and even more difficult to realise how much time has gone by since I first departed for this programme last August. I am a very lucky individual to have had this experience, thus far, and to be gaining such an in depth education. It couldn't have happened without the help of so many of you.

Thank you, again, for your support and for your letters!

With love,
Heather

]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1240404540/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1240404540/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1240404540/tpod.html Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:13:56 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Simi Valley, United States

Dear Friends and Family:

Night has fallen on the city of London. :) The foxes will be crying soon. It is easy to imagine prehistoric pterodactyls sounding much like these suburban scavengers (a mix between the shrill cry of a hawk, seagull and restless infant). A church bell can also be heard in the distance, its ten rhythmic clangs cutting through the swelling sound of Heathrow-bound airplanes rumbling overhead.

So much has happened that I don't know where to start. Four months have passed since my arrival in the UK. Thank you so much for your letters and calls, despite the long delay between blog updates. It has been great to hear from so many of you and I've loved hearing about how things have been at home.

In short, though it's been incredibly busy, I love it here. If possible, I wish I could fly the UK back to California with me and settle it right off the NorCal coast. Instead of a Paris to London "Chunnel", we'd have a Frisco to London "Funnel", and the old adage of "having my cake and eating it, too" would allow me to live in California - close to my family, friends and home - and continue to explore this amazing nation. ;) There is so much to see and do here, academically, historically, and recreationally. For anyone that loves to learn, this is hog heaven. ;)

I could spend an entire entry on specific experiences or particular days. I could ramble on about class projects (i.e., the advantages and disadvantages to bilateral and multilateral aid, etc.), my internship at World Emergency Relief (i.e., the worthwhile projects being funded by the agency), or life outside the books (i.e., the exhilaration of being five rows from Wayne Rooney as Manchester United battle Fulham on the soccer pitch, etc.). ;) But, by blog updates, I haven't yet left the Caribbean...;)

JAMAICA

Following a really great visit by my good friends, Cathy and Sarah during National Heroes Weekend in October, the rush of final papers, exams and agency projects catapulted the weeks of November and December quickly past all of us in the Masters programme. It was a terrifically intense time.

Beyond worrying about exams, papers and dissertation chapters, I was particularly interested in seeing how the promotional DVD for DTC (the orphanage where I was interning) would turn out. Over the semester, I had collected hundreds of photographs, interviewed staff members and children, and had filmed hours of footage. It had been fun to collect and tough to choose what would be included in the promotional piece, so it was particularly relieving when both the Programme Director and Executive Director of the agency were very excited about the finished product. Ultimately, the DVD and a multi-media CD of all of the photography will be used to promote awareness and support for the agency internationally. I am thrilled. It is awesome to be able to provide something that will be used.

Academically, the first semester ended well, with my roommate (Karen) and I obtaining the first and second-highest GPA's in the programme. Considering that only 10 students are in the programme (;)) and grades beyond a "pass" aren't all that important with a graduate degree, it really isn't that big of a deal in the long run. However, Karen and I were really proud. The semester had been challenging, being that we were the only two students that were simultaneously collecting our fieldwork (due to our dissertations pertaining to Jamaica), while attending classes and working at our agencies.

By the time we left the country for the holidays, it was awesome to see how much had actually been finished. The majority of our fieldwork data had been gathered and three chapters of our dissertations had been written. Each of our agency projects had been completed and all of our final papers had been turned in to our professors. Best yet...before departing for home, I also had successfully cooked my first pot of banana and flax seed porridge (courtesy of a cooking lesson from my host mom). ;D

It had been an incredible learning experience, and despite the bruised bum from the long hours at the computer, I felt very lucky to have gained an incredible education from the professors and the community. Ending the semester felt like finishing a marathon. Beyond the sweat, aching joints and exhaustion, my heart was beaming. The reward at the finish line: Seeing my sister at LAX with a brightly-coloured sign that read "WELCOME HOME, SISTAH!"

CHRISTMAS IN THE U.S.

Christmas was a whirlwind of events, last-minute winter clothing purchases, and cross-country trips. I came home on December 15th to homemade peanut butter cookies; a full-blast, hot (!) shower; and a house so decked out with Christmas cheer, the toilet paper roll dispenser in the front bathroom rang out a "Joy to the World" jingle. ;) It was great!

The highlights included a trip to Cambria with my mom and sister, a "Welcome Back...Now, Goodbye" Party with good friends in Auburn, a night at Disneyland with my dad, sister, brother and stepmom's family (complete with a drool-less visit to Space Mountain); a chance to finally (!) be the angel in the Living Nativity scene at church (despite the objections of the SVUMC congregation - ;)), and a two-day layover in Manhattan with good friends, Salmo and Chris - all within 12 days!

It was crazy. It was fun. It was so good to see everyone at home. And, by December 27th, I was in England, jumping forward into another semester....

]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1224241740/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1224241740/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1224241740/tpod.html Wed, 22 Oct 2008 18:44:21 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Kingston, Jamaica

Dear Friends and Family:
I have become convinced that the roads in Kingston are made out of sugar. ;) Every time it rains, the roads seemingly disintegrate. They become gushing, rushing rivers, bubbling and frothing a chocolate brown wake over the aligning curbs. Red-plated Corolla taxis and mini-buses expertly float in between huge chasms and potholes. High-heeled pedestrians in business suits hike up their pant legs or skirts to maneuver between the automobile freighters and deeper sections of the gurgling washes.

By morning, everyday, though, the rivers have disappeared. The sugar roads have been reconstructed and smoothed over, and the transit system is ready for the next rush hour.

The daily reconstruction of these roads reminds me of the resilience of this country, the "We've lived through centuries of slavery, an IMF-raped economy, political unrest and one hurricane after another. We don't have the money to really fix this road properly (as 70% of each our country's dollars goes towards our international debt), but we're going to use the materials we've got, and pull together the labour force needed to slap that band-aid on." At the end of each day, as Tings and Red Stripes are popped open amidst tired construction crews, clouds are gathering for another storm.

"Wagwan?" Someone may say. This is life in Jamaica.

THE DISSERTATION SHIFT:
Two months in, I have fallen in love with this experience. The past three weekends have seen my roommate and I bent over our laptops, punching out papers and presentations for courses, scanning journal articles, reviewing historical texts, and drafting new dissertation introduction drafts.

The latter, for me, shifted pretty dramatically this past month. Upon finding out that media tools are not as much inaccessible in Jamaica as under-utilized in the country, my original dissertation topic (re: the impact of media on fundraising efforts for agencies that serve HIV-positive orphans) lost much of its allure. My new topic focuses on a more programmatic and topical issue: the need for adult-preparation services for HIV-positive orphans transitioning out of residential care.

Without families to rely on, orphans in residential care are "aged out" of the system at 18, regardless if they have a home, job, bank account or support system. The program where I intern, "DTC", is the only residential facility for HIV-positive orphans in Jamaica. Last month, I asked the director what the program was doing to transition these youth into adulthood and to emancipate them into independent-living. The director replied that such services had not been created yet. Up until now, none of the teens had lived long enough to graduate from high school, much less live in the community on their own.

With the introduction of accessible and government-funded antiretroviral medications in Jamaica (through the Global Fund and the Clinton HIV/AIDS Initiative), though, that reality has radically changed. Orphans originally given a "death sentence" with the virus are now being given a chance at life. DTC even recently altered its focus from being a "hospice" for children with HIV/AIDS to a "home" for children with HIV/AIDS. According to the director, the program is only now in a place where wonderful questions like, "How do we transition these youth into adulthood? What resources do they need to not only survive but thrive on their own?" exist.

Formal emancipation services for orphans (regardless of HIV status) are very limited in Jamaica currently. My dissertation will be three-pronged, examining what orphans theoretically need as they age out of residential care, what orphans with HIV/AIDS additionally need as they transition into adulthood, and what emancipation services are already informally in place in Jamaica. At the end of the dissertation, recommendations will be made for transitional services in the country, and specifically, for the youth aging out of the DTC facility.

To know that this study will directly impact teens I know is an intensely motivating factor. As one agency worker said, this will not be a report that "gathers dust on a shelf. This will be a building block for the system to be changed." According to leading researchers in the field, it is one of the top five priorities in the country today for orphans with HIV/AIDS and one that must be looked at now. Thus far, I've felt honored to be interviewing individuals in the field, HIV activists, directors at the Ministry of Health, and executive directors at US-based agencies. The most important figures in the study (the kids!), though, have not been interviewed yet. I am most excited to interview them, to hear what they have to say; to listen to their dreams, fears, hopes for the future; and to understand what they think they need as they head into the world.

This is an exciting time. I am thrilled to be a part of this study, and honored to be walking alongside these children who have conquered the odds, and these agency workers and doctors who have dedicated their lives to the compassionate service of them.

LIFE OUTSIDE OF THE BOOKS...
REGGAE BOYZ HEADING TO THE CUP:
My peers and I represented the Jah-merican cohort in the stadium at the World Cup contending game between Mexico and Jamaica recently. By sheer passion alone (and the introduction of a new coach), the Reggae Boyz slipped past Mexico's grasp with a 1-0 victory, and just last week, wriggled around Honduras with another 1-0 win. Despite international and national doubt, Jamaica may actually be flying to South Africa in 2010 for the Cup. Only one game remains, and Canada ultimately will decide its fate. With Olympic fever having only recently abated, it is a very proud time in the country.

(**Disclaimer of Future Fickleness: If Jamaica does make it to the Cup and competes against England, I will quickly move to the Queen's side of the stadium. I've been a Rooney fan since his first European Cup. Hearing of his record-breaking 5 goals for England in these preliminary stages has already made me smile and murmur, "Roooooooooonnnnaaayyyy...." For now and until fickleness overrides, though, it's all about Jamaica. ;))

JAMAICAN THEATRES:
Along with peers from the program and a couple of new friends, I've been spending more time with my friend, Tammy (mentioned in earlier entries). She's a crack up (with her main aspirations including culinary school and marrying Donald Trump), while her energy is infectious and mouth foul. ;) Having been "indebt" to her for making her watch Mamma Mia the other day, she kidnapped me this week to watch a horror flick in town. I loved the idea of hanging out, but hated the idea of the horror movie. It doesn't matter how slow the Jason/Freddie/(Fill in blank with zombie character name) is walking in a film. I will always believe that their limping, 1mph gait will be enough to catch the speeding pick-up truck with the helpless, well-endowed, questionably-intelligent passengers. Luckily, the most gruesome film available to watch this week was more of a suspense movie: Max Payne. It was definitely a rental. Regardless, though, it is always an experience to go to a theatre in Jamaica:

· The concessionary stand commercials are from the 1970's (and include a cameo of Pepe, the Nacho Cheese Droplet).
· Between the previews and the film, the audience is asked to stand to sing the country's national anthem (which is cool).
· Intermissions always fall directly in the middle of the most climactic scenes, causing audience members to unanimously yell out/throw popcorn/laugh in frustration.
· Throughout the movie, people will randomly talk and comment on the movie, and cheer when certain characters appear in the scene.

It's great.

SURFING IN BULL BAY:
I surfed a few weeks ago, but haven't had a chance to head back to Bull Bay (since we've been prepping for mid-terms). This hasn't been too disappointing as the conditions have been flat. This week, the swell has been picking up, though, so I will likely try to get to the shore for at least a morning or afternoon session soon. I love being out in the water and am looking forward to having more time after December.

DATING IN JAMAICA:
A few folks have asked...;)
Yes. Since arriving in Kingston, I have gone on a few dates, but nothing has been serious. (Until fieldwork finishes in December, there's really no time for something substantial.) One experience was really comical, though and will go down in my personal history as being one for "the diaries". Also, met a great dancer in Ochi recently, and a BBC correspondent in Kingston last week. The latter used to live in an area next to my future university, Roehampton, in London. Now, he lives up my street, so we'll be hanging out this week.

My host mom is priceless on such occasions. Whenever I walk down the stairs in date attire (go-go boots, tube top and mini skirt, of course - ;)), she'll smile, clasp her hands to her chest and in a high-pitched voice, giggle and croon, "Ooooohhhh!" Each experience feels a bit like prom. It makes me laugh.

THINGS I'VE LEARNED FROM THE HALF-WAY MARK:
· I will be signing up for Jeopardy as soon as September rolls around. "Slavery and Plantation in the Caribbean, Alex...? How much time do you have? I may need a couple of screens to write my answer."

· I spent six hours transcribing a 45-minute interview on Friday after an instructor requested that we do so. This week, she indicated that she didn't need it after all. That was...a little bit of a bummer. ;) But, I gained a real lesson in being efficient and focused during interviews. The participant's time isn't the only thing wasted during long-winded, tangent-filled meetings. Mine is, too...exponentially. Am considering having all questions timed like a game show: In 20 seconds or less, Sally...Fred...tell me how YOU would make the world a better place for orphans with HIV/AIDS transitioning out of residential care. Go!

Hmmm. ;) Maybe not.

VOTING FROM DA ISLAND:

Our crew gathered for the first debate between Obama and McCain recently. Though a frustrating experience (as was to be expected), it was a lot of fun coupled with Red Stripe and popcorn. Beyond the presidential nominees and the national bail-out, the propositions on the table (involving the more ethical treatment of farm animals, abortion, renewable energy requirements, gay rights) are extremely important. It is a very exciting time. For those that haven't already found the following non-partisan website, it can be very useful: www.smartvoter.org. Depending on your state/county, it breaks down each of the propositions and district measures into digestible pieces. I loved voting this year. I loved believing, for a brief moment, that "a change is gon' come".

I hope this finds everyone well. Thanks for all of your letters and notes these past few weeks. It has been great to hear from you!!
Lots of love and big hugs,
h
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1222148340/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1222148340/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1222148340/tpod.html Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:39:59 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Bull Bay, Jamaica

"Ooooweeeooooh!"
"Ooooooooweeeeeeeoooooh!"
The boys' hands were cupped over their mouths, as they blew their makeshift horns to the horizon.

"Ooooweeeooooh!"
"Oooooooooweeeeeeeoooh!"
The boys called out again, requesting a swell to be sent our way.

The sets had smoothed and the sun was sitting to the right of us that afternoon. Smoke rose up into the sky from a trash incinerator a mile down the shore. Fisherman threw out single, multi-hooked lines from the beach. An elderly woman hung brightly colored shirts on the line in front of her grey cement home. Behind her, the mountain rising up from Bull Bay lay exposed from a mining expedition, its pale yellow underbelly a stark contrast against the lush green foliage draping the rest of its entirety.

We had been surfing at the Copa break, near Cable Hut Beach and the Jamnesia Rental Shop, for a couple of hours and the day was finally coming to an end. Resolved to the fact that the best of the sets had already come and that the ocean gods had retired for the afternoon, we paddled to shore.

The youngest of our crew climbed a nearby almond tree after he reached the beach. Cupping dozens of the 2-inch coconut-like pods in his shirt, he passed piles to us below. For the next half-hour, we cracked open the sun-dried shells on boulders, our salty hair drying as we shared pieces of almonds with each other. As the sun sank lower in the sky, we talked about the best Jamaican food dishes and jokingly, threw handfuls of empty shells at each other.

After walking back to Cable Hut Beach, I showered off and prepared for my departure. As I left, Billy (the owner of Jamnesia) insisted that I only pay half of the regular rental fee, as I had become a "regular" surfer at Jamnesia. I thanked him and turned to leave, smiling wide. The bus ride back to Kingston was quick and by nightfall, I was back at my host mom's house, exhausted, sun burnt and salty, and ready for the week at school.

It had been a good day in Bull Bay.
It has been a good month in Jamaica.

:)
Thanks, again, for the notes, packages and well wishes. They mean so much to me.
With continued love and gratefulness,
Heather
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219928520/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219928520/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219928520/tpod.html Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:19:38 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Kingston, Jamaica

Just to give an update...
http://go-jamaica.com/weather/index-gustav.php

The Jamaican government has issued a hurricane warning. Gustav took a path closer to Jamaica and is expected to grow to hurricane (category 1) status by later today. We've been told not to go to school and to stay indoors. As of now, we're just helping to gather supplies and water. We are fine, calm, ready (as much as we can be). I'll be in touch as able.

Again, please send good thoughts to those on the coast.
Love,
Heather

_______________________
STORM ADVISORY
Advisory

000
Wtnt32 Knhc 281111
Tcpat2
Bulletin
Tropical Storm Gustav Special Advisory Number 14
Nws Tpc/national Hurricane Center Miami Fl Al072008
730 Am Edt Thu Aug 28 2008

...reconnaissance Plane Finds A Stronger Gustav...

At 8 Am Edt...1200 Utc...the Government Of Jamaica Has Issued A
Hurricane Warning For Jamaica.

A Tropical Storm Warning Remains In Effect For The Cuban Province Of
Granma.

A Hurricane Watch Remains In Effect For All Of The Cayman Islands.

Interests In Central And Western Cuba Should Closely Monitor The
Progress Of Gustav.

For Storm Information Specific To Your Area...including Possible
Inland Watches And Warnings...please Monitor Products Issued
By Your Local Weather Office.

At 730 Am Edt...1130z...the Center Of Tropical Storm Gustav Was
Located Near Latitude 17.8 North...longitude 75.6 West Or About 80
Miles...130 Km...east Of Kingston Jamaica And About 170 Miles...270
Km...south Of Guantanamo Cuba.

Gustav Has Been Moving Little During The Past Couple Of Hours But Is
Expected To Resume A Motion Toward The West-southwest Near 6
Mph...9 Km/hr. A Turn Toward The West Is Expected Later Today And
To The West-northwest On Friday. The Center Of Gustav Is Expected
To Pass Very Close To Jamaica Later Today.

Maximum Sustained Winds Have Increased To Near 70 Mph...110
Km/hr...with Higher Gusts. Gustav Is Expected To Become A
Hurricane Later Today.

Tropical Storm Force Winds Extend Outward Up To 50 Miles...85 Km
From The Center.

The Latest Central Pressure Reported By An Air Force Reserve
Reconnaissance Plane Was 988 Mb...29.18 Inches.

Gustav Is Expected To Produce Total Rainfall Accumulations Of 2 To 4
Inches Over Southern Cuba...and 6 To 12 Inches Over Haiti...
Jamaica...and The Cayman Islands...with Isolated Maximum Amounts Of
Up To 25 Inches Possible. These Rains Will Likely Produce
Life-threatening Flash Floods And Mud Slides.

Coastal Storm Surge Flooding Of 1 To 3 Feet Above Normal Tide Levels
Can Be Expected In Areas Of Onshore Winds In The Hurricane
Warning Area.

Repeating The 730 Am Edt Position...17.8 N...75.6 W. Movement
Toward...west-southwest Near 6 Mph. Maximum Sustained Winds...70
Mph. Minimum Central Pressure...988 Mb.

The Next Complete Advisory Will Be Issued By The National Hurricane
Center At 1100 Am Edt.
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219882200/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219882200/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219882200/tpod.html Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:19:13 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Kingston, Jamaica

Dear Friends and Family:
This morning, we began our first day of school with hurricane watches.  The morning skies were blue and absent of Hurricane Gustav as Karen and I walked to the bus stop.  By midday, the clouds had rolled in and a thunderous rain was pounding on our classroom roof.   In less than a half-hour, the first atmospheric wave of the storm had passed over, and the skies were clear.  We were let out of class early to purchase books and ID cards, and to get home before the next wave of rains passed through.  Buses, gas stations and supermarkets were packed as Jamaicans prepared for the storm ahead.
 
I am only sending this short note to let everyone know that we're okay. :) Our host mom, Eloine, has been through such storms before and has been stocking up on food, water and supplies over the past couple of days, and reminding us of the emergency plan.  We live in a two story, cement home.  We are not near the coast.  Bars are on all entries to the home (windows and doors) and if the storm gets particularly bad and we lose power, we'll be staying together in the downstairs living room area (away from windows and in the center of the house).  It is the safest place to be during such storms.
 
If you want to keep abreast of Gustav's path, the following website offers regular updates on the storm:
http://www.go-jamaica.com/weather/index-gustav.php
 
As it stands, Gustav is currently deemed a tropical storm and is moving across the Caribbean at 7mph with maximum winds of 45mph.  He is expected to move between Jamaica and Cuba by Thursday.  Our hope is that he remains on path, quickly moves over open bodies of water (aka: doesn't gain strength) and passes as just a tropical storm. (Currently, Jamaica has been issued a tropical storm warning and hurricane watch. A "warning" indicates a likely occurrence, while a "watch" indicates a possible occurrence.) Regardless of Gustav's title, please keep those living on the coast of Cuba and Jamaica in your thoughts. 
 
Classes are still scheduled to happen tomorrow, as we wait to meet the storm.  We will be contacted by the director of the program if it is deemed (in any way) unsafe for us to go to the university.  For now, the night sky looks like a rumpled velvet blanket and I can't help but smile at the cheesy grins in our "first day of school" picture and ID cards.  Mom, we took the former for you.  ;)
 
I love you, guys.  Thanks for being a part of this experience.  I'll be online as much as possible and will be in touch with the group, as a whole, when the skies clear again.
 
Love,
Heather
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219114440/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219114440/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/smiling_nomad/1/1219114440/tpod.html Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:18:44 -0400 From Kingston to London, Mon...

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Kingston, Jamaica

As the intro says, the adventure has finally started. ;)

It is 6:47 p.m. in Kingston, Jamaica.  My stomach is full of rice, lentils and fruit sorbet (thanks to Eloine, my host mom), my room fan is three feet from my back (to deter both the mosquitos and the evening humidity) and a road map of Jamaica lies next to my laptop.  I am still finding it hard to believe that I am here. ;)

Between orientation in Georgia and today's activities, much has happened over the past two weeks.  Today, during a field trip to several NGO's in Kingston, I had the opportunity to visit an orphanage near downtown.  While there, one child saw my curly hair and took it upon herself to start to dread it.  Another was fascinated with the nail polish on my toes.  While embracing one, another sat on my hip.  It was an incredibly good moment, though brief, and one that saw me back at St. Philip's in Swaziland, spending time with the Thulasizwe, Ndoda, Fanana, Pahty....  I was all smiles. 

But, I have gotten ahead of myself.  ;)  

First, orientation in Atlanta was both inspiring and challenging.  I thoroughly enjoyed it.  Beyond fieldtrips to the Carter Center and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, 40 hours were spent in the classroom writing essays, discussing ethnorelativism and international relief work, meeting program directors and teachers (from both England and Jamaica in person or via video-conference), and preparing for the year of study ahead. 


My peers are worldly, funny, welcoming, smart, kind, and joy-filled.  
There are eight of us in the Masters program and two undergraduates attending the University of Technology in Jamaica through a semester abroad program.  My roommate is a Canadian from the province of Alberta.  A retired teacher and mother of four, she is now pursuing a dozen-year dream of obtaining her Masters at 45.  I very much like her. The rest of the students range in ages, but are generally between 24-26.  Their international experience sets them apart from the typical twenty-somethings.  They are culturally-sensitive, focused, fun, confident and mature.  It has been awesome to get to know everyone in the program, thus far. 

Yesterday, we toured the University of Technology campus (where we will be taking classes Wednesday through Friday), and today, we visited our preliminary agency placements (where we will be working every Monday and Tuesday).  Initially, it was planned that I would be working with the Kingston Women's Resource and Outreach Center, but that is possibly going to change (as the job available may not be relevant to the fieldwork needed for a dissertation).  I am anxious to be settled in an agency, to start feeling like I have a home in another organization and to begin my fieldwork.  It should prove to be a very interesting and crazy ride over the next four months. :)


For now, several of us will be heading to Bull Bay and the famed Jamnesia Surf Shop this weekend.  Along with providing accommodations for traveling surfers (rooms, tents, etc.), Jamnesia also rents equipment and provides transit to all of the local surf spots ($5/RT bus ticket).  I am very excited about seeing more of the island.  For the most part, our field trips and in-country orientation activities have required that we stay within a 3 kilometer radius of our homes.  As we are living 6 kilometers from the ocean, it has been mildly frustrating to simply know (rather than see) that we have been surrounded by water these past four days.  ;)  This weekend, we will find out for ourselves that we are (indeed) on an island.  Woohoo! 

I do have regular access to email at home, so please feel free to write.  It would be great to hear from folks. 
I truly hope things are going well for each of you!  I will check back again as time allots.
Lots of love,
Heather
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