August - 2009

I guess it's been awhile since I last updated the blog, so here goes

School officially ended at the end of July, but I continued working until I left for Praia on August 10th.
From August 7-9th we had Baias das Gatas music festival.

First night when we got there my favorite local group were playing on the stage. Kudos to them. Also got to see Cesaria live. Pretty amazing, even though she kind of just stands there while singing.

I didn't want to risk getting my camera stolen so I don't have any pictures...

August 4th - 2009 - SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING'S EASY

Quick update on the past month...

* I have officially been in Cape Verde for over one year. Insanity. Time is flying...

* Classes ended at the end of July, but I worked through July proctoring exams, helping with administrative duties, and smaller tasks. I'll probably end up working until I leave on Monday. Overall a nice transition to summer.

* Out of my six thesis advisees, all but one completed their papers. So far one has defended her thesis and did a phenomenal job (I'm oozing pride). Two were chosen along with another student to represent Uni-CV in Brazil to continue their research and thesis paper development.

* The big music festival, Baia das Gatas, is coming up this weekend. Three nights of all-night music concerts at a beach outside the city. Good news, Cesaria will be playing on Sunday, bad news, a local musician Bius apparently passed away today. Mindelo has changed in the last few weeks. The population has swelled and there is always something going on. It's a hard life choosing between which musicians you want to see live.

* This time next week I will be meeting the newbies and helping with training. This time in two weeks I'll be in Boston, three weeks, NY, four weeks, cruising it. All very exciting.


That's about it for now. Hope everyone is well. See some of you folks SOON!

July 4th: INDEPENDENCE DAYS

The pluralization was fully intended.

I celebrated Independence Day with a Thanksgiving meal. Thanksgiving in July = Amazing. That's Isabella.

Cape Verde celebrated it's 34th anniversary of Independence on July 5th. I was supposed to go to the beach for a BBQ on Sunday morning, but had a pretty ragin' fever. Definite bummer. On the upside the fever broke after three days and now I'm feeling really good now. (Stop worrying Ma)

July 3rd, 2009: SCHOOL'S OUT FOR SUMMER...almost

Classes officially ended on July 3rd. It's been a good year. For the next month I start a lighter schedule (mornings) and my primary responsibilities are proctoring and grading exams and attending thesis defenses.

I was invited by my second year students to celebrate the end of the year with a dinner and festa at one of their houses. I finally had my camera with me to take some pictures of my students.

June 30th - HERITAGE

CONGRATS TO HERITAGE'S CLASS OF 2009!!! PARABENS!

June 21st: BAIA PA PE

We went to Baia on foot. Pics from our three hour trek. That's Jaqueline hailing from the island of Sal, and my co-worker Dominika's son who was rocking a pretty awesome fake tattoo and playing the part of "rockin' biker" thanks to Fritz's care package.

June: DARON'S DESPIDIDA

The first volunteer has left us. "Bullayyyy"

Follow my Mom's advice: be careful on your travels is that another ferry ride. wear sun screen and life vest!!!!!!