Wednesday, March 11, 2009

5 Full Days Left

5 days!!!!!!

I haven't decided what books to bring to Jamaica and I am sure there is more to packing than books but I don't want to think about it.

Tonight I am really excited to eat at Nubian Queens' Last chance for some Cajun food before I leave. If you live in Austin you have to check it out! It's kinda strange and might not be in the safest neighborhood but I think that gives the joint some personality.

Tomorrow is the Rebirth Brass Band concert. Not certain I will be going but I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Monday, March 9, 2009

"My mama' told me, 'You better shop around'"

Highlight of the week- Pete's Piano Bar with Natasha. I really should be chaperoned from now on so that I have someone to remind me that I can't dance... All in all, terrific night! Lots of dancing and embarrassing moments. The crazy part is I would never have meet Natasha if I had remembered about a Peace Corps send off party I was invited too.

This past Sunday was my last time to volunteer at the state school. I was given a certificate for my participation during the prayers of the faithful. I am going to miss the state school so much.

Lately, I have not been using my AC in my room. It's night time now, 73 degrees, there is a cool breeze and I think I am going to have a heat stroke. Jamaica is going to be a slow agonizing adjustment.

I am almost completely packed :)

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Department of Motor Vehicles

Downlight of the week-
Older man at the DMV chitchatted with me for 30 minutes. The man's life story went something like this- he cheated on his wife, was issued a DWI, moved in with his son, failed at winning his wife back, and now has given up on women altogether. According to him, monogamy is impossible and all younger men should just save a few years and start drinking instead of dating.... Talk about depressing.

Highlight of the week-
I helped a young mother and her 3 little boys fix flats on their bicycles. The youngest actually learned how to ride his bike as I helped his older brothers. Way cool!

Lent!

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

20 days. Fat Tuesday

Highlight of the week-
Playing fetch with Morgan at St.Edwards park. Nothing out of the ordinary happened, but as we ran though the shallow creek I knew it was one of those days I will always cherish.

I have been accumulating supplies for the Peace Corps. My mom keeps suggesting more and more things for me to purchase but come on, it's the Peace Corps. Plus, I don't want to look too out of place. Most of the stuff I buy I want to be authentic Jamaican. I will be supporting the local economy while giving myself something to do.

I have a book on Patois (The Jamaican language)next to me and I was planning on ending this entry with a lesson but can't recall anything yet... "soon come"! ha, maybe I can.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

29 Days

Wave of the finger goes to IBM
I have been trying to get my computer fixed but IBM claims it is not under warranty but I have a receipt for a extended warranty. IBM, a complaint is coming your way... It's actually a blessing though, I would rather have the $280 I spent on the warranty and fix/upgrade my computer myself. Refund!!

Highlight of the week-
I have started watching the television show "Lost" again. Catching up has been a blast.

List of things I would like to purchase before going to Jamaica.
1) Bicycle tools, and book
2) Sleeping mat
3) Solar shower
4) Solar radio, cell phone charger
5) Portable hard drive
6) Computer upgrade parts
7) Multi-tool
8) Shoes
9) Camera
10) Pots and pans

Monday, February 9, 2009

35 days till I depart

Highlight of the week-
This week has been so great visiting friends in Houston but Alex's wedding vows where beyond amazing!! I knew it was going to be the best speech ever when Alex start with "As the Great Dante said...". The rest of the vows where a blubbering mess of tears and laughs. Something about a sweater was said that's all I could make out. ha

The covenant of marriage is a reflection of Gods love of us so tears of love and joy are very appropriate. It's touching to see two people love each other so much. Congratulation's Alex!

I spoke to Genevieve from the Peace Corps on Wednesday. That phone call was my first real contact with anyone from Jamaica. It's actually starting to happen!

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Gavin + Obama Shirt + 6th Street = Out of Control! Just 43 more Days!


Highlight of the week-
"YES - WE - DID! YES - WE - DID" My shouts of Obama mania roared above the DJ mixes of T.I. and Beyonce as I danced the night away with Michelle, Sarah, Jimmy and Eileen. The best part, I voted for McCain! Or maybe the best part was allowing Michelle to convince me that it was a great idea to tell the girl I had been crushing on that she looked like my ex-girlfriend. Never taking advice from Michelle again!.... In any case, it was definitely one of the best nights I have ever had on 6th street.

That night I realized wearing a Barack Obama shirt basically gives you a free card to do whatever you want. Regardless of how you act, everyone is going to already love you or hate you because of shirt. And in Austin, everyone loves you! Might as well cut lose. Watch out Jamacia, I'm packing my shirt!

PS the Economist is lame for not giving me a discounted online subscription.