INTREPIDITY

Soapbox

2011-11-01T11:54:00.003-07:00

Ok, watch out people. I'm about to get on my soapbox because this is my blog and I can. Fair warning!

(look, a real soapbox!)

So first, watch this: http://www.komonews.com/news/local/132893483.html

Now for my thoughts as someone who has participated in anti-trafficking grassroots advocacy for a couple years now:

1) Awareness is good. The fact that the news is picking this up is awesome.

2) It's a double edged sword. When a topic becomes a fad (which anti-trafficking IS--I compare it to AIDS in African ten years ago) it comes with good things and complicated, annoying, and potentially harmful things.

3) The issue gets sensationalized. Yes, it's an awful story--but it is dramatic on its own. Do you really need to cut and paste like they did in the video to make it more dramatic? And some of the stats thrown out there--where in the world do they come up with that?

4) The issue gets skewed. Sex trafficking happens and is bad. But did you know that labor trafficking happens more? And that sex trafficking is actually a form of labor trafficking? It's a specific kind of forced labor. So why are we ignoring the bigger issue of labor trafficking? Because sex is more sensationally interesting?

5) Power imbalances. In this particular video clip, the women are victims and the men have the knowledge. The only "experts" interviewed or quoted are men. I promise you, men are not the only experts. Nope, nope, nope.

I could keep going but long rants are also annoying and could be the subject of another soapbox. I will say though, that this kind of story is pretty typical--people prefer sensationalized drama over examining roots causes of vulnerability that lead to being trafficked.

Ok, now I'm done!

Two Weeks Later

2011-10-31T11:32:00.004-07:00

I was being so good about consistency--and then I stopped. But I'm back after only two weeks, so that still is an improvement over before, right?

Since I last wrote, I made my first trifle.

It was the last course of a 4 stop progressive dinner. Such fun.

I also bought sparkly shoes. Because I have always wanted to. I sent this picture to my sister while at the store to get help on which shoe to buy! I ended up having to make the decision all by myself and then my sister (too late) told me to buy the other pair. However, I still love the ones I did buy! Which were the sparkliest.

Since last writing, I have also worn crazy long eyelashes. To a football game. Which ended so late I didn't even go out in costume afterwards. So I was just glammed up for the football game. I am very excited to report that I will be purchasing my very first iphone this weekend (yay!) and will in the future avoid large hands in my picture because I have to use a mirror, all old school style.

Since last writing, I have also had a dear friend visit me in Seattle, hosted my entire family for dinner at my new place (yes, everyone fit!), attended a Remix (awesome party hosted by the Seattle Art Museum), purchased the last of my furniture (finally have a real bed!), visited Whistler Canada (that deserves its own post), went to a chocolate festival, and saw Pomplamoose perform.

Pomplamoose is just about the most endearing band ever. I was very impressed that my dad knew them well! I wish I had known or I would have invited him to the concert :)

Here is some endearing entertainment for you all this Monday:

The Bible and Patriotism

2011-10-13T09:56:00.003-07:00

Some friends stumbled across this particular interpretation of the Bible and I just couldn't let it pass. We Americans are that ego-centric to produce a Bible that explains how great our country is.

I certainly love my country and know I am privileged to be an American. But with privilege should come responsibility and to make the Bible completely about my country and how great my patriotism is--well, that doesn't match up with how I understand responsbility. I honestly don't think God cares that much about America in how we have constructed it as a nation state.

Here's a peek inside the Bible and I say "God Bless Amerika" with lots of patriotic love with perspective.

Misguided Humanitarian Aid

2011-10-12T10:40:00.003-07:00

Click HERE to read an interesting critique and thought provoking pictures regarding the West's often misguided desire to help the developing world.

I have seen too many of these pictures in person and wondered about the usefulness and potential harm of even well-intentioned efforts and donations. However, the one that takes the cake for me in this critique are the clowns sent to help kids with PTSD. In my experience, clowns only cause or aggravate PTSD! They are plain weird and scary! (I may have run away and helped hide my little brother from clowns many times while spending days/nights at Childrens Hospital)

Trends in my Career

2011-10-12T09:44:00.003-07:00

Advocacy, online, social media, social justice, brand, storytelling.

Just some words that come to mind when I think of my job.

Which makes the trends below especially interesting.

Happy Columbus Day!

2011-10-10T11:07:00.001-07:00

Columbus Day is so odd to me. When was it even established as a holiday? Unless you work for the federal govt. no one gives Columbus Day a second thought.

Unless it comes to coupons. I went to lunch with a friend years ago and pulled out a coupon. True, the coupon did say it was not valid for use on holidays. But I was flabbergasted when the server said he could not accept the coupon because it was a holiday--Columbus Day.

Lesson learned. Columbus Day is not an obscure enough holiday to invalidate coupons.

And now for a weekend recap: pumpkin patch, pumpkin beer festival, pumpkin pie baking, and pumpkin carving. So pumpkiny!

**Thank you to those from whom I stole pictures since I took all of one this weekend**

Emotional

2011-10-07T12:13:00.002-07:00

No wait, that apparently comes naturally for me. And I don't know how to shelve the emotions either when they surface. Either good or bad. I wear them on my sleeve, on my face, wherever else you can wear them.

I give myself away.

Funky Tights, Old Friends, and Men-Ups

2011-10-05T22:27:00.004-07:00

I am wearing funky tights for the first time this season. Black. Checkered.

Meeting up with an old work friend for lunch today. Years later we are at different work places but still downtown. After running into each other at a crosswalk we are now rendezvousing (I love that word).

For some fun for you all visit THIS website. Turning some classic pin-up poses on their head. Pretty amusing.

Fall Wish List

2011-10-05T09:53:00.013-07:00

I can dream anyway :)

And I have no idea why there is this huge gap--technical difficulties!

Mason Jar Chandelier Mason J... BootsNGus $100.00	Wedding Belle: bridal, vinta... HotGlueHoneys $20.00	Steampunk feather fascinator... Pegasusmaiden $32.00
Vintage pearl head piece, fa... Janespeleers $30.00	Pleated Light Green 16 X 16... pillow1 $21.00	Contemporary Yellow - Throw ... TheHomeCentric $21.50
Pillow Cover - tandem bicycl... sweetnaturedes... $22.00	FRENCH PAQUETS Set of 12 Vin... frenchhenshop $6.00	Linen Bloom Pillow- Mustard ... dedeetsyshop $30.00
Small wooden FM Radio and MP... MrERegal $150.00	Ceramic Teapot, Bright Teal TheCeramicsGal... $60.00	antique bottle collection co... rivertownsuppl... $28.00
Two Vintage Green Glass Bott... simplysuzula $15.50	Vintage Blown Glass Wine Dec... sofralma $26.00	Vintage Fresh Water Pearl To... BlueLaceVintag... $110.00
The Clutch in Natural DNTX $48.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Facelift for Seattle Against Slavery!

2011-10-03T13:05:00.002-07:00

After a long time coming, Seattle Against Slavery finally has a new website! You can check it out HERE.

It seems I will acting as Advocacy Manager for another year although I will need a good team in place as I am not available the way I used to be!

My boyfriend has some awesome skillz and is the developer behind the new site. Appreciate that he took on the freelance job for us!

Music in Cathedrals

2011-10-02T10:46:00.004-07:00

I attended this concert last night with two of my favorite ladies. It was as beautiful as I expected it to be.

Adult Checklist

2011-09-30T13:58:00.002-07:00

While I have accomplished many things on the "growing up checklist," I still have many more to look forward to such as:

--joining Costco and having my own card (not just mooch off boyfriends and friends!)
--have a washer/dryer in my own housing unit
--at some point in the far off future, having my own paid work parking pass (oooooh)

just a taste of the outstanding list :)

Still Here!

2011-09-30T13:26:00.004-07:00

Wow, I guess it has taken me almost four months to recover from school. I hereby pledge to be much better about weekly/daily updates, even if it is as small as a sentence or picture. Yet I will still try to make it more interesting than when I was in jr high and resolved to write in my diary every day. Sometimes it was exciting as the sentence, "today I took a shower." Really 11-year old me? That was noteworthy even if it was just to myself? But then again, maybe it was when living in freezing WY and stepping outside a warm shower onto cold tile floor meant death to my skin.

Anyways, I did actually graduate! Passed my thesis and all that jazz. My supportive crew even had booze for me to drink in a gatorade bottle immediately upon exiting the room in which my defense was held. And the chair of my committee, who was also my past boss, mentoring professor and friend was just appointed a high court judge of Kenya. Even more reason to visit Kenya in the near future! Read about it HERE.

In the last few months I landed a job, got my first apartment all on my own (!!), furnished that apartment, and chopped my hair off.

My job will require me to manage an interactive website complete with lots of blogging, so I plan to do some practicing on my personal, albeit rusty blog.

My idea of the perfect date

2011-09-30T13:19:00.001-07:00

Indoor or out, if I was suprised by this, I would be in heaven. Plus some movie watching or out loud reading with of course some wine and cheese.

Goodbye World

2011-04-28T19:27:00.004-07:00

At least until my thesis is completed in the next 5 weeks. Deep breath.

But it's time to reveal it! Check out my thesis website HERE

And if you are hesitant about slogging through a thesis, don't worry. I intentionally chose to present my work online to make it more engaging and accessible. So go explore! And I will disappear for the next month in order to actually get more content/writing up on the site.

But I did promise some good Paris memories. So before I disappear for the last time amongst grad school responsibilities here is some sharing.......

Good wintry Paris weather made for cheaper prices!

Free ice skating inside the Eiffel Tower. Loved it.

While everyone talks about how "romantic" and beautiful the city of Paris is, this was actually my favorite part. A whimsical bridge covered in locks symbolizing love yet a funny metaphor if you ask me. Still spent a lot of time on that bridge finding my favorite locks--including my name!

Iron and Wine Concert in Paris! Heavenly. Although it was mostly Americans there which I thought was funny.

I don't have a camera other than my itouch so I am very picture-limited these days. Yet another thing on my list to buy once I have a job. (It's a long list right now!)

So all online posting will be on my thesis website for the next 5-6 weeks. Here I goooooo

Thoughts on Eternity

2011-03-02T11:10:00.003-08:00

Ok, so I definitely need to share some Paris memories. After the quarter ends! Soon.

But for now, here is food for thought. Controversial. Heated. And I'm fascinated. Mainly because the entire framework used is asking, "What is God like?" which is very akin to my constant desire to know WHO God is.

Excitement

2011-02-12T15:48:00.001-08:00

For Iron and Wine Concert. In Paris. This Thurs.

My tickets came in the mail right before I left (no will call option apparently). They are very shiny and very French.

XD

Musing

2011-02-08T15:14:00.000-08:00

To read the Bible and reflect on it “is to realize that we have not a series of answers, but a lot of questions.”
--Bible historian Elaine Pagels

2010 It's a Wrap

2011-01-05T22:28:00.007-08:00

I actually didn't watch the Space Needle fireworks this year. The last time I watched a Space Needle New Year, there were technical difficulties and one side just sort of sizzled, smoked and burned. Maybe I'm too unforgiving, but Space Needle fireworks just haven't tempted me since. This was the first year in a few years that I was in Seattle for New Years. I had some incredible company and we found ourselves at a really fun party in downtown Seattle right next to the Seattle Art Museum. So much fun, I couldn't even believe it was time to count down when midnight rolled around. And after lots of group kissing, it was back to dancing.

Now for some 2010 higlights! You knew it was coming.

Kenya (again)
I went to Kenya a second year in a row. All summer. I was a TA for the first part, a researcher for the middle part, and then a tourist for the last part. I loved going back because I was able to see all my friends and grow my relationships there even more. I spent an entire two weeks in Ngecha with the artists, staying with them in their homes. Reflecting back on it now--it still seems unbelievable that I had that opportunity. When 'younger' grad students ask me for advice on research, internships, etc. it's hard to know what to say. My story is so out of the box and hard for anyone else to repeat. I was there at the right time in many ways, able to take advantage of programs and opportunities that aren't even being offered anymore. I am blessed. Even when it is hard. God provides beyond what I could imagine. Really. Truly.

The many amazing people in Ngecha who helped me in my research. And supported me.

Oh yeah? That guy? Only a certain someone who came all the way out to Kenya to see me! Oh, and vacation and travel. There he is leading a website training to all the artists on their very own website. They don't look very interested now do they? :P I will say that he got some very very good deals on incredible paintings he self-selected in their gallery in large part based on his status as their "web developer." :)

A Guy

How do certain things happen when you never expect it? And someone who indulges me in my traveling!

Iceland

Kenya. Running barefoot on the beach. Complete with a random dog.

Just me and my two days alone in Amsterdam on my way home.

Up next: San Francisco, followed by Paris! Ticket purchased just tonight. Yup yup.

School (again)
So that little word, "school" just about controls my life. For now. But I completed my International Development Certificate! And I have coordinated all the logistics around my thesis. AND conducted all my field work for it. AND coordinated multiple art shows on behalf of the Kenyan artists (PHEW to that one!) And added to my bookshelf, which I always love, I admit it.

A small note to celebrate a huge accomplishment. Completing and presenting our huge capstone project to earn our International Development Certificate

Seattle Against Slavery
So many new developments in this area. I took an official position with them as Advocacy Manager. Unpaid. As is my general trend. But I'm loving it and working with amazing people. A coalition is all about collaboration and I work to network and help mobilize the community to advocate (lobby) for legislation that better fights human trafficking in the State of Washington. I am in the state capitol a fair amount and often meeting with legislators. Check it out http://seattleagainstslavery.org
And hopefully when you do check it out, our new (and amazing) website will be up and running!

I'm seeing this logo a lot these days :) And public speaking a lot too!

And 2011? Well, I plan to stay in Seattle this summer. As much as I love Kenya, I need to take a traveling break. And I'm looking forward to that. What else does 2011 hold? At least I hope? Graduation (yipee!). Moving and living by myself for the first time? Although that is contingent upon getting a job? A year of transitions seem to be ahead of me. Bring it!

Time to watch hulu

Snowy

2010-11-22T22:31:00.001-08:00

I am watching Husky basketball on tv while staring at snow falling outside.

loverly

now if only I wasn't also writing an econ paper

What I did this summer

2010-11-16T20:56:00.002-08:00

Well, 3 days out of the summer.

Punda Ride

2010-11-10T17:44:00.002-08:00

Many people I know think it's unfathomable that pundas don't casually roam every street in the world.

Good thing I do have a shaggy pony as a neighbor.

Words

2010-11-10T12:26:00.002-08:00

Transition
Adjustment

Learning

Teaching
Future Unknown

Advocacy

I try to spread out the words above to fit how scattered I am. But the program fixes them into a list. A line. I try to fit outside the box, and I get forced back in.

Home again

2010-09-25T08:49:00.005-07:00

Major fast forward. The Nairobi program ended, I completed my field work in Ngecha, traveled to Uganda and the Kenyan Coast, went to Amsterdam, and am now home and about to start school for the very last time.

And I'm sick. Apparently that's a pattern too. I come home from Africa and get an awful cold.

Meet my camel friend. I met him on Shelah beach. He also knows that I owe you all a lot of stories and pictures. Maybe once my room isn't a complete unpacked disaster and I can breathe out of my nose again.

Blink and It's Over

2010-08-18T13:53:00.002-07:00

We are going into the last 3 days of the study abroad program. Pretty incredible. Internet is actually fast right now and so I am braving all the mosquitoes to post. I could crawl under my mosquito net, but by moving my computer, I am too afraid that I will lose internet!

I made it to Masaai Mara for a second time. While the animals are pretty cool (check out Mr. Lion below), it is really the landscapes that take my breath away. The savannah plains are just incredible and I saw multiple sunsets and sunrises this time. The colors--blue, red, gold, etc.--all play together in a way that makes you stare until you remember that your mother told you it was bad to stare directly at the sun. We went during the wildebeest migration and so the plains were dotted with thousands of wildebeests. and their poop--which apparently drives the elephants into the foothills. Just had to share that little bit of animal trivia with you all.

I've also visited Ngecha again and gave Ken, one of the artists, his requested computer. My experience with most Kenyan men and pictures is that smiles do not come very easily. But Ken's smile in this picture is so genuine and HUGE. It was awesome. When I return to Ngecha this Sunday, I will be staying for 10 days and rotating between the homes of four different artists. the hospitality is just incredible.

It has also been great to welcome such good friends to not only Nairobi, but also my apartment! We've already lost Mike to commitments back home in Seattle, but B is helping to co-direct the program, while M is conducting research alongside me as our work overlaps. So both girls are making my experience that much better.

I have been transitioning to focusing more on my research over this last week. I've been visiting art galleries, art centers, and talking with numerous curators and artists. While it is still very much academic research, it is also so much fun! It is such a fascinating and stimulating group of people to be interacting with and everyone has been so open and kind. Plus, I am being exposed to really innovative contemporary Kenyan art and sometimes picking up a few pieces for myself. Glasses. That's all I'll say for now, but consider it a pretty great teaser :)

I miss everyone at home! But already have less than one month before I'm back. And I'm now in the midst of research with vacation to follow!

2010-08-02T06:42:00.004-07:00

Internet has been pretty bad lately. Below are a few pics from the boarding dorms from a primary school in Loitokitok. I also got my nails done in Loitokitok. I found myself wandering around town and was inspired to ask about getting my nails done. The work of art that you see was only about $2.50 and I simply told the gal to do her favorite design--that is what I got. Which is apparently "very Kenyan" and has gained me a lot of Kenyan credibility. The last picture is from a hike in Ngong Hills. Refreshing to be outside as always.

Today I listened to a 2 hour presentation regarding violence against women and then randomly had a conversation with a Kenyan business man who used religion to justify objectifying women. It proved a bit too much for me to handle today. I fortunately had a meeting with an amazing Kenyan women later in the day and I was able to vent frustration in a positive way. If that can ever be positive I suppose. It is interesting to me that today brought along one of my least favorite conversations so far this trip as well as my favorite conversation so far. What a day.

More Loitokitok

2010-07-30T13:49:00.002-07:00

Some more pictures to capitalize on good internet even though I'm too tired to write much now.

When at the village market, I saw these two jackets at a stall which captured my life--UW jacket and Seattle Mariner's jacket. Of all things!

On the hike along the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro, I trekked across a lot of corn fields.

Too sleepy now......

Swahili Tutor

2010-07-29T00:47:00.006-07:00

This is a glimpse of my visit to Loitokitok. The students are working on a "right to education" project which affects young Masaai girls who are brought to school and "rescued" from early marriages. That meant we spent a lot of time at schools, and a certain primary school. A short Swahili tutor session was arranged and the primary school students (8th graders) helped us Americans learn some Swahili. The young girl in these videos picked me out of the crowd and was an awesome tutor! She is Maasai and will soon be taking her national exams to determine where she will attend high school--if she can even afford it. While public schools are officially free and subsidized by the government, there are always hidden fees, that roughly amount to $100 that families often cannot pay.

Me and my tutor

She taught me mostly through songs which was brilliant. It was so much fun, and I was able to spend time with her at least 3 other times. She wanted to sing the first song below just to show me and the second song is a common child's Swahili song which is directed to a mother and trying to convince her that my hands will soon be big enough to do work and help her. I might have a new pen pal! My first since at least 10 years :)

Recent Radio Story on Human Trafficking

2010-07-29T00:34:00.002-07:00

While I am essentially on hiatus from my work with the Seattle Against Slavery coalition while I am in Kenya, I was just sent this recent radio broadcast, interviewing some of the experts in the field in Seattle.

Click HERE to listen! It's short so I encourage you to do so!

More thoughts

2010-07-19T01:14:00.002-07:00

Moral outrage. While my previous post focused on some positive aspects of Kibera, it must be balanced with moral outrage. The idea that one faces rape simply to walk outside to a latrine when it is dark. The fact that a nice golf course borders Kibera (I actually saw golfers on the other side of the tall wall!). The fact that people live in a mud swamp filled with sewage when it rains in Kibera. This and more should absolutely offend our sense of justice and morality. The question is knowing how to channel that moral outrage and balance it alongside all the beautiful aspects of a community like Kibera. Such as the fact that there are no street children in Kibera--community members rotate caring for orphaned children, and while the kids stay at a different house every night of the week so it is a bit unstable, they have a roof over their head every night.

On Saturday, a handful of us visited another informal settlement called Mathare. We were given an inside tour, complete with a visit to a place where "pombe" is served (ie beer).

Here is part of the group with our new friends and guides.

I think Marine looks quite concerned in this pic because the photographer had just banged his head!

One interesting aspect of the informal settlements is that they consist of different neighborhoods and districts. Kibera has 13 districts. Some are nicer than others. When we were in Mathare, we were in a nicer section, much less slum-like. While people casually refer to all informal settlements as slums, they really do differ, from each other, and then from place to place within each slum.

We were invited into a Mathare home. It was actually on the 10th (or somewhere high--we walked up a LOT of stairs in the pitch black!--in the middle of the day too!) floor of the building, so the very fact that there are such buildings mark a difference from current Kibera, in which there are really none. Although the government has been promising for a while to build some.

It is also interesting to me that there is so little begging. In Nairobi in general, but particularly in the informal settlement areas. Of course we white people stand out and attract a lot of attention but the mzungu (or white people) cries are never accompanied by a demand for money (give me a dollar! which I have heard so many other places). I can't quite figure out why this is.

On another note, I offered a cooking lesson to the students last night. Quite a success! And my mother is famous in the group for teaching me such skillz. :)

Kibera Visit

2010-07-16T23:09:00.002-07:00

We visited Kibera yesterday. The trip included a visit to three different schools at different stages within or on the outskirts of Kibera, a walk within Kibera (escorted by 8 locals to make us less conspicuous as tourists) following the famous railway line that runs along the slum, and a visit to a community-based health clinic.

While Kibera is infamous simply by the number of people that live in such a small area (can be up to 1.5 million people in a 1 square mile area) and for all the development attention that it has received, it was a much less bleak picture of poverty than I have seen in some other places of the world (particularly Haiti).

Our professor prepped us with an important talk, which focused on the idea that our experience in Kibera would be primarily influenced by what we brought to it, rather than what Kibera actually is. It's an important distinction, otherwise we may have been overwhelmed by the level of poverty that we saw yesterday.

I decided, when I came to Kenya, that I would focus on seeing God and His goodness throughout my entire time here. In a context like Kibera, I especially wanted to be attune to God's goodness in a place where it may not be obvious for most. Poverty and the suffering it brings often seems to obscure any presence of God, let alone his goodness, but I prayed that God would show it to me.

And it's there. I saw it everywhere. The garbage, smells, holes in clothing, etc. became much less visible when I saw how happy so many of the people are--children and adults alike. Perhaps I could even call it joy? Laughter is everywhere. From the adults who were acting as our tour guides, to the school children and their teachers, laughter was always present. At the first school I visited, I could have focused on the state of the classroom and the shabby blackboard. But instead, I read what was written on the blackboard, "Laugh at your own risk." Laughter is so present all the time, the children have to actually be warned against it!

At the first school, some of the children entertained us with song, dance, and skits. They were so talented. A number of the jr. highers performed skits that they wrote themselves, and they were so funny that I cried I laughed so hard. My prof almost fell off his chair multiple times he was laughing so hard! One skit was a satire on the Pentecostal Church. It probably crossed the blasphemy line a couple times, but was so hilarious it didn't even matter. I only understood about half of the Swahili, but still caught the gest of most of it. You didn't even really need to understand any Swahili to still follow the jokes at the Pentecostal Church, but I suppose you would still need to be familiar with that particular church to follow that humor too. Which not everyone could :) However, it was interesting that the school was run by the Catholic Church, and the skit was directed at another church that is almost opposite in terms of liturgy. ha!

The second school inside Kibera was nothing short of a haven. Also run by the Catholic Church, it was beautiful, yet still completely appropriate. In fact, the school building almost looked like a treehouse and was built among existing trees! And it wasn't just me and my tree-house obsessed brain. Others thought that too. :) You could just feel goodness all around. The kindergartners were in the midst of nap time when we arrived and it was SO cute to see them all lined up like sardines on the nap mats.

Some of their students had qualified for the national choir competition and performed one of their songs for us. Nothing short of amazing! And once again, I could barely look past the boys smiles they were so brilliant. There is something called a performance smile, but this went far beyond that and anyone could tell that this activity gave the kids such absolute joy. Yet, as an informal school (rather than a formal, public school that is recognized by the goverment), the government refuses to provide them with any money and so the teachers are forced to come up with other ways to afford to send the kids to the competition in Western Kenya. Yet the idea of showing the kids green grass (of which there is none in Kibera) is enough to motivate the teachers to find the money. How, I don't really know.

As we walked in Kibera, most of my encounters, from glimpses to words exchanged, were so friendly! And the resourcefulness is amazing. There is a vibrant economy inside Kibera and shops line the railway line. I did not take the pictures below as I didn't feel it was appropriate to have my camera, but there are plenty of pics online which I nabbed. The health clinic that we visited, as a community based organization, is completely owned and run by community members. I was most impressed by the community toilet that they showed us. It was so nice and clean! They have four of them, but shared that it is not nearly enough. But how refreshing to see community members gathering resources and working together to provide good things for their community.

I think I came away from the day with two main feelings. First, awe for seeing God's goodness. Not only did I see it, but so many people I talked to within the schools also claimed it! When someone says they know that God is faithful and provides, who am I to say, "No! How could that be true? Just look at your living conditions!" I am sure there are those that do feel that way, and there must be depression and despair present in such conditions. But it doesn't have to be the dominant mindset and that is what I saw yesterday. It was beautiful. Secondly, frustration. At the government. The Kenyan government refuses to recognize, Kibera, along with other informal settlements. Therefore, the settlements do not have access to resources such as electricity, public schools, and sanitation. In terms of human rights, I consider this outright discrimination. So while it is beautiful that the church steps in and provides such basic rights like education, etc., the government should be providing these things because that is their job! With such enterprising and collaborative spirits within Kibera, I can't even imagine how much the residents would prosper if given these social-economic rights and services by the government. Why the government refuses to recognize Kibera, besides economic/financial reasons, I'm not sure. How could improving the lives of Kenyan citizens be bad for the government? Yeah, not sure either.

Vote for New Constitution!

2010-07-14T02:00:00.003-07:00

On August 4th! Which is also apparently a national holiday--any voting day.

Pictures and Thoughts

2010-07-14T00:53:00.004-07:00

This giraffe wants to greet you all. I'm also a fan of the random warthog with the mohawk-mullet hair. This giraffe is actually baby whose home is at the giraffe reserve. It's a hot spot for tourists, along with the animal orphanage where all the baby elephants are. The giraffes are hefty little things because tourists feed them all day long! The giraffes will eat from your hand and wrap its tongue all around your hand. (ick)

There is a new mural in Ngecha! This one is about dairy farming. I think the artists were commissioned to work on this theme.

George is signing his purchased piece for this student while others browse through the pile of artwork that is all set up in the community YMCA.

Happy to reunite with Ken Artifact, one of the artists!

The students enjoyed themselves so much that many of them want to return to visit the gallery and participate in a collaborative workshop. I'll be working to help coordinate that. :)

Upon leaving the art festival, I was gifted a Ngecha Artist Association t-shirt. Pretty sweet. I was also given "cultural beer" which was pretty good! Made from honey, it was slightly sour and fizzy. Apparently all indigenous beer making is illegal in Kenya and so the village chief must have given them permission to brew it for the festival day. The best way I can figure out how to spell it is "Morotina" (said with a spanish accent because that is how my brain works)

One of the students at her internship site, discovered that a community in Western Kenya is burning witches. Understandably so, a lot of the students were pretty horrified. But there are a lot of layers to this. It's not just the human rights violations that seems incredulous but also the fact that people believe in the supernatural here. While I find it refreshing to be in a context in which most people accept the supernatural, it is quite different from our Seattle background. I also accept the supernatural, but I also simply like to be exposed to people who think differently from my "normal" everyday exposure. It's a good reminder that not everyone in the world thinks alike! And I find myself in the majority sometimes (in terms of thought) and the minority at other times.

Please click HERE to read a recent article on witchcraft in Western Kenya.

I think it is interesting the witchcraft is illegal in Kenya. Yet the legal wording and definition is so vague, no one has ever been convicted of it. So community members are taking the law into their own hands when they think their community is being threatened by witchcraft. Rather than handing over suspected witches to law officials, they are simply killing them. Otherwise, it is thought that witches will just "get away with it." Clearly there are huge problems with this, but I do think it important to think beyond the initial shock towards "witch burning" and consider all the other factors that lead to that final result. And whether you accept the supernatural or not, the reality is that other people do and there are social consequences, whether for good or bad.

Kenyan Acrobats

2010-07-14T00:34:00.004-07:00

For your enjoyment. Please note the outfits. This was just part of the entertainment at the Ngecha Arts Festival.

Weekend Blip

2010-07-11T14:56:00.001-07:00

I bought a Simba! In love with it. It is made out of metal scraps. My purchase at the Ngecha Arts Festival last Saturday. I loved being back and will post more about it soon.

Baby elephants! We went to an animal orphanage and the baby elephants were stinkin' cute. And they ate from the biggest bottles ever!

More life Tidbits

2010-07-08T00:48:00.002-07:00

I have been burning things alot. My toaster is a little overly enthusiastic. And I also did not realize that my oven is in Celsius until it was a little too late. You would think that considering 250 was the highest setting, it would jog my memory. But no.

There is a group of us that like to gather for video workouts. Hilarious. I think the laughing is burning just about as many calories as the workout! Yesterday I found myself surrounded by 6 other women all holding ridiculous items to substitute for weights. I grabbed an iron and a bottle of dish soap while someone else was holding a bottle of vodka and a bottle of syrup.

I have been doing a number of site visits. Each of our students are at different internship sites, and I am going around to check in with students and supervisors. It is a great way to get a look inside a number of leading Kenyan human rights NGOs. I didn't get nearly the comparison last year that I am getting this year. This morning I spent at a refugee services organization while this afternoon I will be at a community based school located in a Nairobi slum.

Because I am doing so much driving around, and only me in the car, I have already had so many more conversations with the drivers than I did last year! We have two drivers. Both are fabulous. One is just learning English but he has already improved so much from last year! Now our conversations are a wonderful blend of both Swahili and English. The drivers are really the best Swahili tutors and I am piecing the language together again. I had one this morning already start to try to convince me to get a job in Nairobi upon graduation. He had many reasons. :) It is true that I step back at times and evaluate what it must look like--me being driven around with a Kenyan driver. But I really have no choice in the matter and it is primarily for safety reasons. (Driving in Nairobi is absolutely insane). But it still gives me a lot to think about in terms of social and racial hierarchies. A lot.

A Missionary in Africa?

2010-07-07T03:03:00.003-07:00

One of my favorite blogs, Stuff Christian Culture Likes, just had a post on Africa. Click HERE

I just thought it was funny timing, considering I'm back in Africa, once again. I actually had a couple conversations, right before I left, regarding what it means for me, as a Christian, to be in Africa. The whole role of a missionary is so interesting to me. I don't consider myself anymore of a missionary here in Africa than I am in the states. I don't think geographical location determines how you live your life for Christ.

I never thought I would work in Africa. It's true that perhaps in the last 10 years, mission work in Africa has become a popular trend or fad idea in Western Christian culture. I guess I kind of always thought I would actually avoid going to Africa in order to avoid just jumping on the fad bandwagon. But as I've learned, the object of the bandwagon doesn't necessarily improve by all that attention, and in fact, often needs that much more appropriate help. But I still think it is [insert some profound and perfect descriptor here] that my life does find me in Africa now and it is so intertwined in who I am as a person now.

And I constantly do question, in my head all the time, and sometimes outloud, what business I have being here? And what my role should be? As a foreigner. As a privileged white person. As a female. As a human rights advocate. And as a Christian.

Contrast Tour of Nairobi

2010-07-04T04:28:00.005-07:00

We took the students on a contrast tour of Nairobi today. Fortunately traffic wasn't bad so it only took a few hours. We started with off with a view of the Nairobi skyline.

Becca has proved to be a great person to watch futbol with! We've watched all the World Cup games so far together since being in Kenya.

First we toured the 'posh' areas of Nairobi. We even took the students to a number of malls that look just like America. We went inside one of them and while some of the students didn't seem to understand why that was worth their time ("we could go to something like this anytime in Seattle), if we didn't expose them to all levels of Nairobi, that wouldn't really be showing them the contrast. It's interesting how eager some people seem to be to be exposed to poverty.

We drove through Eastleigh which is a fascinating district. It is predominately populated by Somalis now and most Kenyans don't approve. It is said that you can go there and see what pirate money is doing. Somali pirates can't channel their money into Somalia since there is really no place for it to go. So many say that it goes to Eastleigh. And I would believe it as it shows. The area has become much more developed and even cleaner and nicer! You can tell where Somali owned buildings begin, not just because of the Islamic references that being appearing, but also the better condition of the buildings and street area. Kenyans disapprove because they think the Somalis should return home. Their money is making them powerful in a way that Kenyans are wary of. Pretty interesting matter and it made for interesting discussion in the van, with our Kenyan program coordinator sharing his honest opinion.

I couldn't help but take this picture of a random mzungu (white person) walking in a slum/low middle class area. He stuck out like a sore thumb. Even I immediately thought, "Mzungu!"

I snapped this picture right as the kukus (chickens) began to fight! This man's hand on only one chicken neck calmed the whole lot down.

While I'm sure most people don't see the beauty in hanging laundry everywhere, I like it. A rainbow of colors on all the buildings.

I'm taking some of the students to a Kenyan play this evening. What a way to celebrate the 4th of July. :) I have absolutely no idea what to expect, so we'll see what happens!

A List

2010-07-03T13:06:00.002-07:00

of Nairobi life so far.

--World Cup! Have watched all the games so far while here. Ghana was especially heartbreaking but thrilling! I stayed behind the big group party in order to care for our first student to get sick. But she felt well enough by that evening to watch the game with me which included lots of sitting on the edge of our seats, jumping up and down, yelling, etc. In fact, I just now watched Spain score, woohoo!!

--I went to three different markets today and quite the variety. I walked some of the students to two of them although I went a bit round about way at first as I tried to remember things exactly. Fortunately none of them minded walking a little bit extra :)

--Big Bugs. I don't remember seeing this many bugs last year but it has been warmer this year so far compared to last year. I've seen one live huge grasshopper outside of a porch window and numerous squashed bugs on the city streets that are easily the size of my hand. I like them better dead and squashed, I must admit.

--I have bought my first Nairobi City Market flowers, including my favorite flowers, calla lillies. Life is better that way.

--Meeting up with old friends. So good to reconnect. Reliving memories at Java House.

--Washing clothes in my bathroom sink yet again. This time around I pulled up a dining room chair in front of the sink to make it easier.

--Crossing Roads. It is always a slight adrenaline rush. Some crosswalks do exist but I actually find them even more confusing and therefore more dangerous!

and now, bed time. lala salama!

I made it!

2010-06-30T16:28:00.002-07:00

I feel like the days leading up to my departure were a whirlwind. So much for giving myself time to relax--more like just enough time to not feel too stressed. But for that I am very grateful.

On my first long flight, I sat in the middle of a large soccer team. I wish I could say their travel excitement was contagious but it was more just irritating. I may have had to kill some of their fun when 4 teens tried cramming in the two seats in front of me and were ruining my movie watching--although, I did watch about 4-5 movies during the entire trip which may have been a bit overkill!

After waiting 2 hours to get my visa, I finally crossed over into Nairobi! All the other students arrived today and I spent a long while at the airport in order to welcome everyone.

It's so familiar to be back. Yet, a whole new group of students and I'm now part of the "in charge" group of people. Some adjusting for me too.

Will have my phone up and running tomorrow!

Night.

2/3 Done with Grad School!

2010-06-09T13:42:00.007-07:00

Finished yet another quarter! And I am officially 2/3 of the way done with grad school. I will be doing my field work this summer, then need to write my thesis next year and take two more classes to finish up all my requirements. Awesome. And I need to figure out a way to pay for my last year of school too. So many applications. I'm a bit tired of selling myself on paper.

But we public policy grad students know how to party! It may not be the best time for a party--the Friday night before finals week. But we still make a good showing!

Some of my favorite ladies. Friends, classmates and groupmates:

This guy is awesome:

We have known each other for a total of 8 years:

Old friends, past roommates, and now classmates! We will be graduating together again!:

And of course, lots of dancing:

I am currently preparing my speaking parts for the Seattle Against Slavery benefit dinner tomorrow (http://seattleagainstslavery.org/benefit.aspx). And then I can finally relax a bit before I start preparing to leave for Kenya!

Lion Pinata

2010-06-01T14:13:00.002-07:00

Only the best thing ever! And one of the best gifts ever. This will be showcased at my joint early birthday party and bon voyage Kenya party. The lion is perfect for Kenya :) And I can share the awesomeness with my good friend, M, who will be in Kenya with me and happens to have a birthday just days after mine. Since we keep having our birthdays far away from home, we are going to celebrate early this year. Although, the fact that I played piano for M on her birthday last year at a fancy restaurant in a coral cave, is pretty cool.

Now I have to think of clever things to put inside it and get excited about hitting it sometime toward the end of June!

Norfolk Towers

2010-05-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

This is where I'll be living (again) in just one more month!

View Larger Map

Abolition Article

2010-05-25T13:05:00.001-07:00

I wrote an article. You can read it. Please click HERE. Download the pdf and go to page 9 to see my piece.

Cool! And here is a shout out to my marvelous editors. :)

New Find

2010-05-18T20:56:00.002-07:00

I just discovered THIS website and now fear that I will never get any work done. I find it absolutely and thoroughly hilarious! I mean who are we kidding? Christians are too funny not to poke fun at :)

Video Practice

2010-05-15T15:30:00.002-07:00

I took a digital storytelling workshop and made my very first video ever! I messed around with some old video clips I had from my 2005 Europe trip with Perky. I had just graduated from undergrad.

I threw this video together in just over an hour and it's my first attempt, so just keep that in mind :)

Busy bee

2010-05-06T10:35:00.002-07:00

busy bee. that's me.

too busy.

losing my creativity, my community, my sanity.

yearning to be un-busy.......maybe a roly-poly?

Get Away

2010-05-03T14:49:00.002-07:00

There is a reason why we get away. We need it. When I can't get away, sometimes I look back at pictures when I can remember what it felt like. Like now. In the law library. Surrounded by books I need to read and then somehow make into a paper.

So I'm looking back at get away pictures from a short trip to the Peninsula last January. I don't look stressed in these pictures. It's impossible to be stressed when you are looking out over the water. Greyness all around but still so colorful. In the presence of wonderful company. And bald eagles to boot. And if I ever move away from WA, I can look back at these pictures and know that I was a true Washingtonian.

First stab at Thesis Blurb

2010-04-27T12:00:00.002-07:00

I was nicely forced to come up with a blurb for a colloquium I am presenting at in a few weeks. This is the first bit of something I scribbled now that I have thought through my research a bit more. I am sure I will look back later and think this completely awful, but I have to start somewhere!

Erin Murphy, Public Affairs and International Studies
The Intersection of Visual Art and Human Rights in Kenya:
Artists have a critical role in the human rights movement as catalysts for change. The visual artists of the Ngecha Artists Association in Kenya, use their art to express human rights messages. From health to gender rights, the artists seek to foster dialogue leading to community social transformation through their art. (www.ngechaartist.org) This summer I will stay with the artist community for a few weeks and conduct ethnographic research using visual anthropology. Through observing their youth workshops and community mural paintings I hope to answer the following questions:

--how do the Kenyan artists understand human rights as communicated in their art?
--are there nuanced differences in their framework of human rights compared to a general Western understanding?
--if so, what are the implications for Western practitioners who rely on a framework of human rights for their work in Kenya?

My hypothesis is that there are differences in the normative human rights framework of Kenyans as compared to Westerners.With the growing popularity of framing development issues as human rights issues, this has important implications for Western NGO workers and others.There is a danger of imposing the rhetoric and framework of human rights in a similar way that other international development models were imposed.

Iceland Picture Teaser

2010-04-20T23:09:00.005-07:00

I really should be reading right now, so this will just be a teaser.

Around Reykjavik:

I matched the city color scheme!

This is the word for bathrooms. Which we made into a verb.

Gullfoss was absolutely incredible.

I am the highest jumper. YES!

From Iceland!

2010-04-17T18:38:00.002-07:00

Today was glorious. We went on a loop drive that took us past hot springs, geysers, lakes, and waterfalls. The Gulfoss waterfall was breathtaking. Every single one of us were blown away. We didn't know what to expect, but it certainly exceeded whatever we expected! So many fabulous pictures to come. I didn't take most of the pictures but will snag them from friends.

To end the day, we went here: Blue Lagoon

Climb On!

2010-04-11T23:32:00.005-07:00

A fun group went to Leavenworth this last weekend. It was my roommate's birthday get away weekend. Lots of board games and then climbing! None of us girls had ever done outdoor climbing before. It was super fun! I enjoyed not having a set route but doing whatever I wanted that worked for me. About two years ago, I started to climb for the first time. Gym climbing. Only a handful of times really. But I wanted to do it more and so bought gear (shoes, harness, etc.). But then, I started grad school and my life as I once knew it was over.

I haven't climbed since I started school. Until today.

It so happened that a nearby stranger wanted to take pictures of us climbing. So I actually have proof of me doing my first outdoor climb! I would say my later climbs were more fun, my favorite being a crack climb. I made it to the top every time and so can sleep well tonight. :)

My thought process may have gone something like this:

"hmmmm, maybe I should go as fast as I can and not think about it!

"hi everyone on the ground watching me! I really don't want to fall right now because I would swing far out......"

"I got this, I got this......"

"This is hard. Just breathe and DO IT! (I just might be censoring any cuss words that came to mind!)

"I made it! Hello stranger lady on the ground taking my picture."

Public Campaign Targeting Victims of Trafficking

2010-04-03T16:32:00.001-07:00

The Seattle Against Slavery Coalition has received permission to post these all over the state in public areas, particularly in public bathrooms and rest stops.

Cali Spring Break

2010-03-31T22:44:00.003-07:00

For spring break, I went with my mom and brother to visit family in Central CA. It was a good time spending time with fun and adorable cousins (some of them both fun AND adorable!) My Abuelita fed us till I wanted to pop with goodness. We mostly hung around "the house" but did go out for an afternoon of wine tasting. Even the little brother and cousin can taste the wine along with the grownups now. :)

It was all too short and I can't believe yet another quarter has already started. I did manage to get some spring cleaning done before school started up again! I even did some baking. Actually, the baking bug hit me tonight too and I have some chocolate chip cupcakes in the oven--simply because I had frosting and chocolate chips! My last round of baking proved pretty handy too. I tried mowing the lawn and wasn't having much fun. Unfortunately, too many neighbors may have heard me cussing out the lawnmower after the 4th time it turned off on me. That sucker is hard to turn on! A neighbor happened to be walking by (whom I didn't know) and offered to help. I couldn't pay him but gave him lots of baked goodies after. He seemed to think it was a good deal in the end! And while I like to think that I can do everything by myself, I think he did mow the lawn in a third of the time it would have taken me.

And in an odd way, I felt so much better beginning the school quarter with a clean room and mowed lawn. :)

Most diverse school district in the nation

2010-03-19T17:17:00.002-07:00

When I worked with refugees in the South Seattle area, most of our kids were enrolled within a school district that is the most diverse in the country. Over 50 languages are spoken by students in the district's schools. Foster High School submitted this video to request a visit from Obama. Check out the diversity!

When I worked for the after school refuge club last year, Foster High School hosted our program. So I know that building well. :)

Done with the quarter!

2010-03-16T17:21:00.002-07:00

As of this morning. I just ate an entire roll of sweet tarts to celebrate.

I don't read Japanese so I can't figure out how to embed this video. But click here to learn why you should NOT judge grad students!

whimsical

2010-03-11T23:01:00.004-08:00

i kinda wish i could surprise someone's bananas with these fun stickers. but someone who doesn't read this blog. or it wouldn't be a surprise.

If you are interested in reviving branding into funny little stickers, click here

After a rain

2010-02-28T20:07:00.000-08:00

Today

The earthworms

On the sidewalk

Looked like scars to me

Iceland

2010-02-27T12:43:00.002-08:00

I'm going! April 15-20th. School, what? And I'm just tagging along which is a new role. I'm usually the one in the drivers seat for planning travels. With the country bankrupt, it's too a good a deal to pass up. Pretty excited now to visit a country I have never even really thought about :)

Some great pics from Iceland:

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2009/01/11/travel/0111-REYKJAVIK_index.html

USA Today Ranks Iceland as a Top Destination in 2010
12/11/09

USA Today highlights Iceland as a top destinations for travelers to watch in 2010. This follows Lonely Planet’s recent review, where Iceland was named a top-value pick for 2010, as well as Travel + Leisure’s recent article where Iceland was described as one of the “world's sexiest affordable destinations for 2010.”

USA Today emphasizes that NOW is a great time to get a hot deal to Iceland. The devaluation of Iceland's currency means a very favorable exchange rate for visitors from all over the world who are, “looking to soak in the Blue Lagoon, hike glaciers and dance all night.”

More on Haiti

2010-02-23T08:25:00.002-08:00

My parents received this in email form from a friend. It is clear that it comes from its own very biased perspective, but an interesting perspective nonetheless. I don't necessarily agree with him, but have my own reasons for being very unimpressed with the UN and USAID, not just in Haiti, but in many other countries as well. However, I don't think it is due to the "liberal" administration as it has been consistently this way through both right and left administrations.

**********************

This is from an old squadron mate whom I have trusted with my life more than once. He passed this in good faith.
Interesting read and no suprises...
Credible source sender...I don't doubt a single word.
D**
.....................

From a Marine friend:

I got this via email from a Vietnam Doggie tanker buddy who happened to work with 3rd Mar Div back in 1968 The below is from my old high school classmate & kinfolk - A Retired Special Forces Sgt Major

I served in the SOG (Special Operations Group) in Vietnam with Brock**** and Hebl***, they have both been involved with various disaster relief programs for the last several years to include Hurricane Katrina. They have both always been straight shooters and known to call a spade a spade, as well as sometimes using very "colorful" language which had to be cleaned up a bit. So I have no doubts as to the truthfulness of what he's saying.

News back from Nick Brock****. He and Dennis Heb*** made it back somewhat safe and sound.

To All,

I just returned from Haiti with Heb***. We flew in at 3 AM Sunday to the scene of such incredible destruction on one side, and enormous ineptitude and criminal neglect on the other.

Port o Prince is in ruins. The rest of the country is fairly intact. Our team was a rescue team and we carried special equipment that locates people buried under the rubble. There are easily 200,000 dead, the city smells like a charnal house. The bloody UN was there for 5 years doing apparently nothing but wasting US Taxpayers money. The ones I ran into were either incompetents or outright anti American. Most are French or french speakers, worthless every d*** one of them. While 1800 rescuers were ready willing and able to leave the airport and go do our jobs, the UN and USAID ( another organization full of little OBamites and communists that openly speak against Americana) These two organizations exemplar their parochialism by:

USAID, when in control of all inbound flights, had food and water flights stacked up all the way to Miami, yet allowed Geraldo Rivera, Anderson Cooper and a host of other left wing news puppies to land.

Pulled all the security off the rescue teams so that Bill Clinton and his wife could have the grand tour, whilst we sat unable to get to people trapped in the rubble.

Stacked enough food and water for the relief over at the side of the airfield then put a guard on it while we dehydrated and wouldn't release a drop of it to the rescuers.

No shower facilities to decontaminate after digging or moving corpses all day, except for the FEMA teams who brought their own shower and decon equipment, as well as air conditioned tents.

No latrine facilities, less digging a hole, if you set up a S****** everyone was trying to use it.

I watched a 25 year old Obamite with the USAID shrieking hysterically, berate a full bird colonel in the air force, because he countermanded her orders, whilst trying to unscrew the air pattern. " You don't know what your president wants! The military isn't in charge here, we are!"

If any of you are thinking of giving money to the Haitian relief, or to the UN don't waste your money. It will only go to further the goals of the French and the Liberal left.

If we are a fair and even society, why is it that only white couples are adopting Haitian orphans. Where the h*** is that vocal minority that is always screaming about the injustice of American society.

Bad place, bad situation, but a perfect look at the new world order in action. New Orleans magnified a thousand times. Haiti doesn't need democracy, what Haiti needs is Papa Doc. That's not just my opinion , that is what virtually every Haitian we talked with said. The French run the UN and treat us the same as when we were a colony, at least Papa Doc ran the country.

Oh, and as a last slap in the face the last four of us had to take US AIRWAY's home from Phoenix. They slapped me with a 590 dollar baggage charge for the four of us. The girl at the counter was almost in tears because she couldn't give us a discount or she would lose her job. Pass that on to the flying public.

Nick

Chanelling the 60's

2010-02-20T17:32:00.003-08:00

For a 1960's cocktail party! I found a fun little dress at a vintage shop. I think I can definitely pull it out of the closet again, but probably with leggings in the future. Enjoy the mish-mash of pictures below!

V-day

2010-02-16T22:18:00.003-08:00

Some sweet surprises.

And yes, I have become quite a fan of How I Met Your Mother, hence the pineapple. :)

Ngecha video

2010-02-11T22:59:00.003-08:00

This video was pieced together from material we gathered last summer when we were just starting to envision this journey we have been on. Yes, the sound and film quality is not the best, but it speaks to improvisation in the light of a exciting discovery and new partnership. We highlighted this piece at the PAUSE event in January and now are giving it to the artists to use however they wish.

Pause Visions - Ngecha Artist Association from Jon Hickey on Vimeo.

Thank you to Mr. J.H. for all your awesome editing work and support!

A Newfound Entertaining Blog

2010-02-09T23:37:00.000-08:00

http://unhappyhipsters.com/

A Dinner Party and A Great Revolution

2010-02-09T22:02:00.002-08:00

A Great Revolution about 6 times. Four times in a row and then later, twice in a row.

But wait, are you familiar with the game, the Great Dalmuti?

This game is awesome. I got hooked while traveling around Kenya. I have memories of playing this game on a beach cabin porch while I watched very large baboons sit just a few feet away from us, scratching their blue balls. I don't think I will ever get that image out of my head.

But this dinner party. I hosted for a number of good college friends. Fish tacos with mango salsa. yum. It's a rare thing to get us all together these days. In fact, we had to schedule like two months out. Made that evening that much more enjoyable, simply to have time together.

But the revolutions. So after dinner, we busted out some games. This particular game is all about hierarchy. From the lesser peon to the Great Dalmuti. However, if a low person on the hierarchy happens to get the equivalent of the 2 jesters, a Great Revolution takes place! All roles are reversed and power dynamics are turned on its head! Only thing is, a Great Revolution is super rare. You know, with the odds and stuff.

So now imagine 4 Great Revolutions happening in a row. Because it did. True story! By the time someone exclaimed "Oh, my god!" the fourth time, we groaned because it was just too unbelievable. And because it meant we all had to play musical chairs yet again. :)

If that isn't weird enough, after two more rounds, two more Great Revolutions happened in a row. Bizarre.

The mathematician in our group tried to sort out the probability-busted out the excel spreadsheet and all! We never quite got it figured out, but we know we beat the odds by something ridiculous like 1:3million. Not only that it happened so many times, but also that it was sequential. And I promise, it had nothing to do with the dealing!

So yeah, a dinner party and multiple Great Revolutions that beat incredible odds. Maybe it would be dangerous if we were able to all get together more than once every two months. :)

Virginia Inn Exhibit

2010-02-04T00:53:00.002-08:00

Friends and wine. Supportive Seattle community. I had been in the restaurant all of 2 minutes when I learned that one of our collaborative pieces had sold. So cool. Hard to believe that something I helped paint was purchased and for a whole lot of money. :)

Snowy Canyon

2010-02-04T00:41:00.002-08:00

Remembering sun and snow.

Lightning Round

2010-01-26T22:16:00.003-08:00

I don't like being this busy. However, I am about halfway done with grad school! Because I don't have time to really share further (or even download pictures, video, etc.), here is a quick lightning round of happenings/thoughts/research/stuffs:

fruit cleanse + some veggies because my teeth started hurting with too much sweet fruit

buffalo burger = bowling ball

Lake Crescent and Port Townsend

The Gates Foundation, small/medium enterprise, agribusiness in Africa

almost killing my fishie

reflections of God in the ordinary

nakey lesbian spa with a best girlfriend (backup plan spa)

more Ngecha Art and exhibit at the Virginia Inn

missing time for music

toning and pilates starting up

hating that I must make time for emissions testing, but loving that we require it here post-Nairobi experience

Salt Lake

dinner parties

organizational strategic planning and vision/mission creation sessions

tax time again!?

multitasking my brains out

missing too many people that are too far away from me

Out of Town Weekend

2010-01-15T10:24:00.002-08:00

I'm off to Salt Lake this weekend to visit a bestest girlfriend. I have a feeling there will be more dancing like the video below from last week's event. Too bad we will be missing one dancer.

Thanks to a certain someone for capturing such happiness on video. :)

Ayiti

2010-01-13T16:12:00.000-08:00

m'ap kriye pou ou

Small Interuption

2010-01-11T21:50:00.001-08:00

In the flow of PAUSE updates.

This was very likely the best white elephant gift in the exchange at my holiday party last month.

Succesful Event!!

2010-01-10T20:53:00.004-08:00

It's over! and it was fantastic! Last week had to be one of my craziest ever. First week of school + crazy work because it is the first week of school and students demand add codes + grant deadline + SAS coalition meetings + event planning. But I survived! And I have so many people to thank for helping me keep my sanity.

There will be a lot more pictures and video coming in the near future (again, thanks to so many volunteers!) but for now, here are some quick "stats" on the event and some pics.

over 200 attendees
roughly $6,500 raised in ticket and art sales
roughly 175 bottles of wine consumed
2 incredible live bands
about 25 volunteers

The three of us in the first picture were roommates in Nairobi and collaborators in planning this event. These girls have become wonderful friends!

Ugly Sweaters

2009-12-23T20:48:00.001-08:00

'Tis the season. Ugly seester sweaters to boot.

My YouTube Debut!

2009-12-16T22:43:00.005-08:00

Not sure why the video below is not showing the whole frame but you can click on it to go to YouTube directly and view it in full frame.

I attended a reception for the UW Center for Human Rights (a co-sponsor for the art show) and met a photographer/videographer for the UW College of Arts and Sciences. Very unexpectedly, I was interviewed about the project and partnership we have with the Ngecha Artist Association. I admit, it's hard not to be critical of myself when viewing the clip, but for something so spontaneous, I guess it's not bad! Definitely need to move less while on camera though. But I suppose there is good reason why some people never leave the house without makeup and hair done. You just never know who or what you may come across! Unlike me that day, in the middle of finals, meaning pretty much no makeup.

The College is also advertising the event on their homepage here http://artsci.washington.edu/ and say they will post the video on their website in the near future too.

The dean's office has also taken an interest and I was interviewed over the phone while shopping at Trader Joes for a piece to be included on their website and newsletter. Hopefully this interest and recognition will lead to something good!

Did you know?

2009-12-14T13:49:00.002-08:00

That stress apparently affects the health of your mouth? My dentist says so. Not only am I probably going to die about 5 years earlier thanks to the effects of stress (especially a week like this one--FINALS), but my gums are going to wither and all my teeth fall out first.

But then again, I could always be trampled by a group of angry camels first and never experience any of the above.

Finals week makes me weird.

2009-12-10T19:53:00.002-08:00

Nearly all the wisdom we possess, that is to say, true and sound wisdom, consists in two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves.

—John Calvin

How often do I need to remind myself that attempts at figuring myself out really should be attempts at figuring God out first? About 14 times a day.

teeheehee

2009-12-09T21:04:00.001-08:00

only not so funny in every day, real practical life. especially with heels.

My brother apparently has spare time

2009-12-09T09:26:00.002-08:00

To do stuff like make this "motivational" poster:

I'm glad he does!

Suprise Pony

2009-12-06T22:56:00.002-08:00

In my front yard! I just came home with my Christmas tree strapped to the top of my car, when I saw a pony chomping on my lawn. I couldn't help but stare--it was just too awesome! It was being walked, leash and all. I was invited to pet it and I did! The walker's name was Kirby which was awesome too. I found out it was a Spanish pony, complete with a ghost name (a version of a nickname??), that lives just two blocks away from me. And it likes corner lots (like mine!) the best when visiting.

Please note the pure joy on my face. How could I not be thrilled with a surprise pony visit? And one named Vivayo, nonetheless.

Film, Faith and Justice Benefit

2009-12-03T10:54:00.002-08:00

Look who was highlighted below: my two awesome Nairobi roommates and now colleagues in the Ngecha Artist Association Project.

This is the same event that I posted about earlier but this looks all professional. :)

We won! Among other things

2009-12-02T23:02:00.004-08:00

Huskies won the Apple Cup (the big rivalry). 30-0. There is something fascinating about mob mentality and how it is appropriate in the context of sports. The exhilarating feel of being part of a crazed screaming mass of people, literally feeling the pulse of the mob. I mean, when else is it ok to yell "Kill Him!" although still metaphorically. :)

Plus it was just great to hang out with old college friends I rarely see anymore. Thanks, G, for the Christmas gift!

Other exciting news:

I found the pair of red shoes I have been looking for! The exact matte shade of red. Need to break them in still, but I am just happy looking at them laying on my floor

I am going on a cruise for New Years. (!) Yes, really and it is going to be awesome. It's pretty much the exact opposite type of vacationing and traveling I normally do, but I think that is partly why it will be awesome. I couldn't help but get the giggles when the "Vacation Cruise Specialist" started listing all the things included on the cruise, after hearing I had never been on one before. But it is only a four day cruise as I think that is pretty much all I can handle at this point. But I am sad that I lost my favorite swimsuit. I could have sworn that I packed it when leaving Africa! But it has never surfaced and I think I really have to accept that it won't at this point. A four day cruise doesn't seem reason enough to buy a new suit though, so I guess I will just drag out an old one that I think is ugly but probably no one else cares.

Christmas trees! I get to decorate two this week!

On a not exciting note: I need to finish 4 projects/papers before I am finished with the quarter. It's a little sad that one side of my bed is permanently invaded by books. Lots of them.

drumroll please.....

2009-11-29T23:10:00.005-08:00

PAUSE

Click on the link above to get a peek into a big part of my life these days. The website will still be undergoing some changes so be sure to check back later.

Kora/Piano Duo

That link will preview the African music that will be performed that night. yeah!

facebook post that made my day

2009-11-24T15:20:00.001-08:00

From my sissy: T-Mobile at the Northgate mall called. They have your cell phone. Silly sister c(:

How a lost phone in the Udistrict made it all the way to Northgate, I have no idea. Slightly incredulous and extremely grateful.

And I have insurance on my phone now.

Sheesh.

I lost my phone

2009-11-24T10:43:00.002-08:00

AGAIN.

I think I have chosen the wrong profession. I should have been a musician. Then my disorganization and scatterbrainedness would somehow just then serve to make me cooler.

Purchased

2009-11-21T13:07:00.001-08:00

Monsters of Folk cd

I can barely even get past the first song because I love the lyrics so much

Dear God (Sincerely M.O.F.)

Dear god, I'm trying hard to reach you
Dear god, I see your face in all I do
Sometimes it’s so hard to believe in
Good god I know you have your reasons

Dear god I see you move the mountains
Dear god I see you moving trees
Sometimes it’s nothing to believe in
Sometimes it’s everything I see

Well I’ve been thinking about,
And I’ve been breaking it down without an answer
I know I’m thinking aloud but if your loves
Still around why do we suffer?
Why do we suffer?

Dear god, I wish that I could touch you
How strange sometimes I feel I almost do
And then I'm back behind the glass again
Oh god what keeps you out it keeps me in

Well I’ve been thinking about,
And I’ve been breaking down without an answer
I know I’m thinking aloud but if your loves
Still around why do we suffer?
Why do we suffer?

MI

2009-11-18T20:39:00.004-08:00

Cashed in a free flight to spend time with one of my favoritest people ever. And happened to spend time with other special people too.

Ann Arbor Arboretum and traintracks

Parlor icecream with two loverly girlfriends

Lots of study time. Some things never change :)

I don't recognize my best friend anymore. Michigan plates??

Shopping List! for lots of cooking

Visit to the zoo

How to describe my time there?

stay-at-home spa night, fajita feast, pumpkin cheesecake AND pumpkin muffins, coffee house study hopping, late night girl talk, Noah and the Whale, sangria, medical school flashcards, Hot Fuzz, midwest driving, MSU AND UofM, grateful reflections, fence hopping, and lots of laughter

Thoughts swirling around my brain

2009-11-05T20:31:00.002-08:00

include the following:

the formation of social justice coalitions

the commodification of human rights

the role of visual art in the human rights movement

European hegemony, ecological imperialism, socially constructed nationalism

You would think I would know how to use the electronic library system by now, but I guess not. Or once again, I am choosing the oddball, not mainstream, hard to find information, route. This weekend will be spent cornering a librarian into helping me!

Flair

2009-11-01T10:21:00.002-08:00

My evening......

First stop: MacBeth performance. And everyone was given a duckie upon entrance. :) Too bad the majority of the acting was painfully bad.

Second, Third, etc. stops: parties. but the camera was left in the car. My flair did provide some entertainment! Especially considering most of the random pins are from the 60s, 70s and 80s.

Lots of tea and studying

2009-10-31T17:33:00.000-07:00

My afternoon.......

yet another music role model

2009-10-29T16:32:00.003-07:00

Went to the Blitzen Trapper show at Nuemos the other day. The lead singer was so sick he could barely sing but boy did he try hard!

Wye Oak opened and I have found yet another music role model. The band consists of two people but this guy is three musicians in one. He was playing a keyboard with one hand, the drum with the other hand and feet, and often times would blow into some crazy contraption that was connected to another keyboard of sorts! Mesmerizing.

First picture taken on my new phone!

A Story about How I Lost and Then Found My Phone

2009-10-24T15:34:00.002-07:00

I should be getting a new phone right now but the Husky game can tend to make it difficult for me to get around. Especially since I am listening to the Dawgs lose right now and I am sure people are already leaving and there is traffic.

Why do I need a new phone? Because it was run over by a car. Probably multiple cars.

About a week ago, I could not find my phone or Husky card (student id and expensive transportation pass) when I got home. I knew I had them on me when I was on the bus, so I figured they fell out of my pocket while I am was on the bus.

The next day, I repeatedly called the King County Metro system. I am glad there are multiple customer service people that work there and a different one spoke to me each time. Otherwise, I am sure I would have been incredibly annoying. But my things never surfaced.

That evening as I was walking to my car from the bus, I happened to see a piece of smashed plastic in the middle of the street--and then gasped when I realized it was a piece of my phone! Apparently my items had fallen out of my pocket when I got off the bus and I didn't know it. I picked up my destroyed phone piece and dejectedly started shuffling around the street, kicking leaves, trying to find other parts of my phone, especially the SIM card! A lady happened to walk by and asked if I was ok and if I needed help. In a daze, I responded "No....no, not really." She then responded, "Oh, are you just like this?" The woman thought I was crazy! I told her "No!" and held up the remains of my phone. After she walked on, however, I sat on the curb and laughed and cried at the same time, therefore actually looking like a crazy person.

I did happen to find my Husky card though. Also very run over, but still usable!

I have lost all my phone numbers. Shoot. I think I may just upgrade all the way this time around though when it comes to a new handpiece. :)

First Time

2009-10-24T15:27:00.003-07:00

As a MC for a fancypants benefit dinner. I was asked to MC for the benefit for the Faith, Film and Justice Festival here in Seattle.

We were able to display some art and advertise for our Ngecha Art Event (January 9th!):

You can't see, but I was instructed to stand on a very narrow ledge, in heels, in order to get peoples' attention early in the evening. Funny.

Quality Ladies

2009-10-21T00:23:00.002-07:00

These are two ladies that mean the world to me. Why do you both have to live so far away from me??

And no, that one picture is not a very flattering picture of me, but it sure is of Abs! So there you go, Abs, I will sacrifice in order to show your best side. :)

However, I get to see both of you in less than a month! Lucky me.

Thalia + Obama

2009-10-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

I've always thought this song was dance irresistible!

SOIL

2009-10-16T10:29:00.004-07:00

I met Sasha, the founder of SOIL, while in Haiti. A cool encounter at a restaurant in Cap-Haitien. I never had a chance to use one of their latrines, but I did use another organizations similar latrines and it was incredible how clean they were, especially considering they are used by the entire community.

http://video.nytimes.com/video/2009/03/28/opinion/1194838983811/american-ingenuity-in-haiti.html

And I don't know why it isn't showing up as a movie in my blog. :(

New Love

2009-10-11T22:53:00.000-07:00

I love my cardamom tea from Zanzibar. with milk. in bed.

Butternut Squash Soup

2009-10-05T21:43:00.002-07:00

Tis the season. My brother and I made dinner from scratch. And I have now joined the ranks of people that have had an exploding blender incident. I am glad I had help to clean the splattered mess!

It tasted so good, it was worth it though.

Hood River Hopsfest

2009-10-04T20:25:00.003-07:00

There is no actual Hood River. Just Mt. Hood and the Columbia River. Now I know. Beautiful area!

Met up with a lot of friends for the annual Hood River Hopsfest in Oregon. We stayed in a great house complete with a hot tub. And it was walking distance to the beerfest! It alternated between rain and sun, typical NW weather.

On the road, cars slowed down to gawk at this huge pumpkin! Me too, obviously.

Lots of beer tasting.

A visit to the nearby orchards.

I discovered perhaps the best tree swing of my life so far. I spent roughly 40 minutes on it, because I simply couldn't get off of it! Such happiness. And it was big enough to share so I really didn't have to ever get off of it. All the pictures above were taken while I was on the swing. Here is my view from above:

Weekend highlights: Fresh Hops of Bel Air beer, catch phrase, and of course, the tree swing

Coats and Rainboots

2009-10-02T14:15:00.002-07:00

I am already cold and probably will be for the next 7 months. But I am fondly remembering what it was like to be warm.

Like when I was on the beach and rode a camel.

PS

2009-09-25T22:02:00.003-07:00

What do you do when all your required courses in one department conflict with all your required courses in another department? And you are somehow expected to commit to an exorbitant amount of credits?

I don't know yet. But I better figure it out really soon. While I also try to figure out why concurrent degree programs are so damn complicated when their entire purpose is to streamline the whole process.

And least one department gave me free lunch today and the other department gave me free beer!