Books -n- Smiles

Students w/ the newer books

stay tuned for more updates on the books and the library :)

...Vincy Vibe

Today was beautiful! Walking through the streets of Kingstown I felt so vibrant and alive. The sun was beating hot 'pon me skin but boi it sure beats the rain!! I felt like I was in tune with the hum and rhythm of the city. Beautiful faces, beautiful smiles. It was contagious, I couldn't help but notice my face relax a bit as I mirrored the lovely people I encountered along the way. I would describe it as feeling that Vincy Vibe as my friend  Lizzie Davies has so eloquently described it in her poetry.  I kept thinking... I kinda love this place.

Today was a good day. Me nah stress.

I confess, I did it.

How it started: So this was my first Thanksgiving away from my family in a long time. I was just fine most of the day. Most of the island post hold their own version of a Thanksgiving gathering and celebrate with local friends as well as Peace Corps Staff. It is a nice way for volunteers to share our various Thanksgiving traditions with one another as well as local friends.

Where it when wrong: Skype date with the family- Fail. We tried to get a connection for about 10 minutes. Sensing my frustrations they tried to keep a smile on their faces but it just wasn't going down.  resulted in a stream of unpleasant emotions accompanied by an empty house  topped with a dollop of self-pity.

Solution: revert back to the insane logic that material things can make you happy aka retail therapy.  12:01am Black Friday online, yes I did it. And honestly clicking away adding items to my shopping cart offered a moment of comfort.

Side note: After sharing this minor meltdown with a Vincentian friend she inquired about Black Friday. She said it seems  bizarre and contradictory that Americans have such a day directly after Thanksgiving. She kept asking but why after Thanksgiving?...after responding with a slew of programmed answers we both laughed because we knew she was right. It makes absolutely no sense. I think many of us know this, and many people have removed themselves from all the hype. So no, it is not ALL Americans but obviously a significant amount of us, and this year I became part of the masses.blah.

Results: a few good deals on items I actually really wanted and can use (can't even fudge and say need).  Oh well the damage is done but I will say I feel 100% prepared to step into 2012 with appropriate wrinkle, rust, hole, mold free attire. Maybe this will end the ongoing discussion between my coworkers and I about my wrinkles and permanent lint ball fuzzy things that I refuse show much concern about when highlighted by my coworkers.

Countdown is on, 14 days until I am back home for a visit!!!!!!

The Books are here!!

I wanted to let everyone who donated to the school via Hands Across the Sea that the new books and arts supplies have arrived at the school!

It was quite an exciting day for all of us. I will be posting pictures and videos soon.

We are still in the process of working out a few minor details within our library center (i.e. library cards, a few more shelves). Once this is complete we intend to hold a special ceremony to present the new material to the students and parents. The goal is for the teachers, students and parents  to recommit to care and upkeep of the library and new material.

Again, thank you for all of your support. Pictures and thank you notes coming soon :)

Morning Assembly

Students with older books ( going in the give away pile)

Grade 1 reading corner- older books

Sunday reflections

...I have come to the conclusion that I am much more of an introvert than previously thought

Photo by KP

...with that said, cooking is more fun when there is someone else to enjoy the meal with.

...we create our reality which is largely defined by our perception of our experiences

...I plucked another gray hair today *sigh*

... in life the RESTART button works wonders (try it!)

...I will be home to visit  in less than a month (big big smile)

...Silence is as essential as sound, listening and speaking with your heart takes practice

#30daythankyou

#30daythankyou

Final post of the 30 day gratitude campaign. Thanks again to up and coming  author Kenya Jackson for setting this in motion. A wonderful way to celebrate 11.11.11. (World Day of Interconnectedness) and Day of Thanks this month. I just love November- Sweet Sweet November. The big day is right around the corner sending you much support. Remember it is what we do  "in the meantime" that keeps our innermost desires on target."Your energy is where you last left it"...

Day 27: I am thankful for my Angels (Caroline, Chel and Lainie). Life has taken us many directions at this point but you all still hold a dear and special place in my heart.


Day 28: I am thankful for Meadow. You have been a guide, confidant, friend, advisor, sister- you role in my life shall continue to evolve  just as you do. Happy Birthday my love!!


Day 29: I am thankful for Fousey, Doc and my PR family. Your support, love and encouragement over the years has been akin to  a big sister. Thank you for welcoming into the PR fam years ago. Thank you for being the voice of reason  time and time again :)

Day 30: I am thankful for N-butter P. Through it all, you were there. Many a lesson we have shared. Thank you.

#30Daythankyou

#30daythankyou

Day 23: I am thankful for Nurse Freda. Your loving kindness and open door make the not so great days more bearable.


Day 24: I am thankful for sweet lil Talucia who helps me bring in each day by shouting J-e-uh!!


Day 25: I am thankful for KH (and her insomnia). Thank you for all your support and encouragement the last few months. Thank you for just listening when the rest of the world is sound asleep.

Day 26: I am thankful for my Brother and his family. The little ones are a source of my joy and smiles on many days.