Exploring the legacy of reconciliation's giant – Originally written for Relevant Magazine
01 December 2013 // Chino, California
Came across this surprising temple on the drive back to Bakersfield… had to stop for the photo op.
02 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Some of the items confiscated from one day of working at a middle school– hey, these kids stick with the classics. That pen is a prank shocking pen.
03 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna and I made some pinhole cameras out of matchboxes and film rolls for our trip up to Utah. Can’t wait to see how they’ve turned out
04 December 2013 // Browse, Utah
Utah in the winter is cold and beautiful. We came across these gorgeous icicles after getting gas in Browse. We drove all day from Bakersfield and through Vegas. I can spend all day in a car with Deanna over and over.
05 December 2013 // Provo, Utah
Okay, I think BYU might have one of the prettiest campuses ever. Deanna and I went with Eliza to a human rights class on campus.
06 December 2013 // Provo, Utah
The snow in Provo was so powdery, it was perfect for playing. My red scarf, red sled, and Deanna’s tiger hat added to the experience of feeling like those classic wintertime Calvin and Hobbes scenes.
07 December 2013 // Salt Lake City, Utah
Went up with some of Deanna’s high school friends to Salt Lake City for the day. Outside the temple, the snow started falling like crazy.
08 December 2013 // Zion National Park, Utah
Accomplished one of my longtime goals of visiting Zion. It wasn’t the explosion of color I expected due to the snow, but it was still magnificent. This was the kind of place where I could’ve just stayed for a very, very long time.
09 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
I was happy to see that the Christmas tradition of countdown chains were still alive and well in this classroom where I subbed. I also got to spend some of the day watching stop motion Christmas movies with the kids, so that was an especially festive assignment.
10 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
We went to St. John’s to watch Simon’s Christmas pageant. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the best view of Simon, but we were still entertained.
11 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
My activity of the night was to make some crafty Christmas cards with Deanna to send out. Mission seemed like a success.
12 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Thursday night at Ben and Sammy’s was the best. Restaurant quality fish tacos plus winning Settlers for the first time made for a successful guys night.
13 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Has anybody read this? Cause I want to discuss! I personally had mixed feelings. I thought Adam Johnson’s storytelling was incredibly clever and his writing was sharp and fun to read. As a portrayal of North Korea, it was seemingly accurate, but I thought it missed the opportunity to humanize its people the way a novel could have.
14 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
I got the chance to take the Stephens family pictures before a day full of fun with visitors. This was a really fun shoot.
15 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Went back to Hart Park with Meaghan, Deanna, and Raquel to go visit the peacocks again. (We avoided the cat face)
16 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
The air was so bad today the American Lung Association dubbed it a red flag day. But I was too distracted by errand running.
17 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to help Deanna and family put the lights up on the tree. Their ornaments are great.
18 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Hung out with Deanna’s social work friends. Played that dance game on XBox and finally watched The Heat.
19 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Right across from the school where I work is this old school style baseball card shop. They’ve got some goodies there. I spent some time basking in the nostalgia… they even had those old Starting Lineup figures… if that means anything to anybody.
20 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got off work early, so took a walk to explore downtown. Found this little art gallery that is run as a co-op. Had a nice talk with one of the artists.
21 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna and I went to Henley’s to develop film from the matchbox pinhole cameras we made. Some of them turned out pretty interesting.
22 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Went to The Bridge for a pretty great Christmas service… a good reminder of the journey we’re on
23 December 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Went out for breakfast with Deanna, her mom, and the Stephens. A good way to end my year in Bakersfield.
24 December 2013 // San Diego, California
Reunited with Sonny in North Park and met his brother. First time eating at the Hash House… I think I get what this place is all about.
25 December 2013 // San Diego, California
Seeing some cousins I don’t get to see often enough was a highlight from this year’s Christmas.
26 December 2013 // San Diego, California
It’s been far too long since I last got to see Tommy, but thankfully we were able to rectify that for my last night in San Diego. Surprise high school reunions included.
27 December 2013 // Carson, California
Deanna and I treated each other out to Disney as our Christmas presents to each other. First time going there since I was five!
28 December 2013 // Los Angeles, California
Took Deanna out on a little date around L.A.’s Arts District. This is one of my favorite little eateries around there.
29 December 2013 // Long Beach, California
Spent a surprisingly long time at Portfolio, enjoying a really engaging conversation with this group of LiNKers.
30 December 2013 // Carson, California
Got to spend some time with my uncle Eulogio, looking over old pictures during his visit to California this winter.
31 December 2013 // Carson, California
This year taught me a lot about presence, rest, and stillness… which was a bit ironic considering I spent 2013 all over the place: 16 countries in total, here are a few of the represented highlights.
01 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After a frustrating three weeks of waiting for this repair to be finished, I finally got my computer back. Now it’s time to catch up on writing, grad school, Skype dates, and a whole bunch of other things.
02 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Went out with Deanna’s family to Marie Callendars, where the window panes in our own little room looked just like the country… almost.
03 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Had a fantastic Sunday with Deanna after church, consisting of California Pizza Kitchen, walking in the park, a movie, and salsa lessons.
04 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
My usual drive home takes me from somewhere new in Central Bakersfield. Typical street corners look something like this.
05 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
The drive from my place to Deanna’s is about ten minutes. Unless this damn train shows up.
06 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Subbed for a kindergarten class today… surprisingly more subdued than they usually are.
07 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
One of my favorite parts of the week has become dancing on Thursday nights at Club Odyssey. Loving the Latin dance community there.
08 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After upgrading my phone, I decided to test it’s camera prowess while we were nabbing samples at Teavana.
09 November 2013 // Frazier Park, California
Got in a quality hike with Ben and Allison out in Frazier Park, one of the better kept secrets of Kern County.
10 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Stopped by for a breakfast burrito after church. Great place.
11 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Went over to Andy and Shelly’s for a chili dinner and got to spend some time with the young ones.
12 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Started my long term assignment in a special ed classroom at Sierra. Liking it so far, which is good since it’ll last through December.
13 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Had to run an errand in the Old Town part of Bakersfield, which doesn’t have a whole lot of activity going on these days. It does have a very classic library.
14 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
There aren’t too many places in Southern California that get a proper fall, and that’s a shame. But– I did find one street that was in style, and it was awesome.
15 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to spend the night with Simon and Luke, watching Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs. Before we watched the movie, though, we would have to read the book.
16 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna and I wrapped up a successful date night with some good sundae and sherbert.
17 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Went to get some Korean food with Deanna and our friend Connie to hear about her adventures in Nigeria.
18 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to swap more stories with Ben over a couple bowls of pho.
19 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna got out of class early. Not that early, so everything in Bakersfield was closed, except for Target. We went to visit her grandma, then we went to Target to have an ugliest outfit contest.
20 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to hang out with Luke and Simon at dinner tonight.
21 November 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
Got Deanna tickets to see Andrew Bird for her birthday. The first conversation either of us recall was about his music.
22 November 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
After exploring Montecito Beach with Bre, we went to go have some fun downtown, going by the courthouse first.
23 November 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
Finally accomplished one of my longtime goals of throwing a pizza party at Lizard’s Mouth, out when the stars were bright.
24 November 2013 // Goleta, California
Mission successful: This guy would not let Gabe walk his two pugs around the Camino Real Marketplace.
25 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Ben and I discovered a very happy hour indeed. From dollar tacos to to five buck sliders, our mission to discover something awesome about Bakersfield’s food options was a successful one.
26 November 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Spent my evening at the Bridge, helping them prepare a couple thousand turkeys. Love it when people make helping people into a party.
27 November 2013 // San Diego, California
Drove into San Diego in the day, and in the evening went out on a photoshoot with Jeremy. Don’t have a tripod, but I was able to turn some walls into makeshift tools for some night photography.
28 November 2013 // San Diego, California
Had a pretty awesome Thanksgiving with my parents and the Orlinas. We go all hands in.
29 November 2013 // San Diego, California
Had a wonderful catch up session with Chris. Also, discovered an awesome Korean restaurant- piles and piles of food for only eight bucks during the lunch hour.
30 November 2013 // San Diego, California
Had a good time in South Park getting caught up on Randy’s stories from Texas and what’s been going on around San Diego since I’ve left.
01 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After subbing for a 7th grade class on my first day of work, my second took me to a kindergarten classroom. There’s a surprising amount in common.
02 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Always have a fresh batch of this in the fridge, and I go through it pretty quickly.
03 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
I had a fantastic night’s adventure that would’ve been out of this world to a six year old. I put on my baseball cap, got some coins out of a jar, walked to Rite-Aid, and got a six pack of Reese’s for 99 cents.
04 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
While waiting for Deanna to get home, her dad and I watched the Dodgers’ game, and soon enough, Prosecco was served.
05 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna and I went out for an unexpectedly expensive lunch out at the Macaroni Grill. But these were delicious, as was the rest of the meal, so it was okay.
06 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Glad to see Simon’s parents are raising him the right way.
07 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
That says it all
08 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Wanted to see if the kids could guess my team. Not even one correct guess. Gotta love the random ways to fill odd gaps of time.
09 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Simon had never had apple galette before. Neither had I until Dee’s birthday.
10 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Took a run to the post office after work to drop off some grad school stuff.
11 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Stocked up on chili before going out line dancing in a barn. Fun night outing.
12 October 2013 // Santa Cruz, California
Dee and I wanted to do some hiking. Original plans were for Big Basin, but after realizing how awesome it was, we decided to save it for another time when we could properly camp.
13 October 2013 // San Francisco, California
Had an awesome time catching up with a bunch of guys I don’t see enough these days. Thanks to Ryan for throwing this thing together.
14 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Thought this first grade class I subbed in had a pretty well decorated room. I’m a fan.
15 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Took on the challenge of watching a TED talk every day of October. I ended up watching some really, really good ones.
16 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
A good portion of my subbing job today was taking the kids to see the musical assembly, where the drama classes performed a tribute to the Oscars. Fun on the job.
17 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Swung by CSUB after work to give Deanna a quesadilla and coffee during her busy day.
18 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Went with Dee after work to go try on some Halloween costumes… but we’ve already got our own idea.
19 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna took me on a surprise outing– a trip to the pumpkin patch to get pumpkins and have fun with animals and corn.
20 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to exchange stories with Dayai over lunch. Talked about Dublin, London, and North Korea.
21 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
This just might be my favorite liquid in the world.
22 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to grab some coffee with Ben after work. Here’s hoping that Big Sur trip works out sometime soon!
23 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Playing around at Dee’s after work. Usual weekday fare.
24 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Took a late night trip to Best Buy to return the computer I’d been using for the weeks while mine was in repair.
25 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Spent it cooking and watching movies with Dee. Finally got to see Brave!
26 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
We did it! Definitely felt like Halloween around town tonight.
27 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Our pumpkins were filled to the brim with seeds, meaning after they were carved, we had another snack-making project.
28 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After our meeting was cancelled tonight, I spent the evening playing with Hannaly’s baby animals- namely, the bird and the turtle.
29 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
The guy I subbed for is really into taxidermy and skeletons. Made for an interesting classroom.
30 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Decided to treat myself to the classic relaxing afternoon.
31 October 2013 // Bakersfield, California
This was a great Halloween. Thanks to 3-year-old Simon for picking out our costumes.
01 September 2013 // Portland, Oregon
One of my favorite cities in the world. Maybe I’ll live here someday.
02 September 2013 // Seattle, Washington
Took the trip up with Matt to Seattle for the day– roamed around Pike Place, circled the perimeter of Bumbershoot, and got in some good tea at the UW area.
03 September 2013 // Portland, Oregon
An old school bus converted into a grilled cheese restaurant. Another reason I love Portland.
04 September 2013 // Multnomah Falls, Oregon
One awesome, beautiful waterfall. Oh, and while Matt and I were here, we witnessed a proposal. That was pretty cool.
06 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
First night spent in Bakersfield as a resident… also the first night in over a year that I’ve had my own place.
07 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Grabbing some Dewar’s with my new friend Chamodh from Sri Lanka.
08 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
I love Sundays, and I love how after church is a perfect window of quality time to spend with Dee
09 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Moving in means a lot of random things you need to buy that you don’t typically pick up on a weekly grocery run. At least now I’m finally living somewhere with a Target
10 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to spend some time with Meaghan hanging out at Dagny’s and getting caught up on life these days.
11 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
An essential player when it comes to life in Bakersfield.
12 September 2013 // Northridge, California
Visited Sam and Matt while in L.A., and got some good pizza while we were at it.
13 September 2013 // Torrance, California
Took a pit stop at the LiNK office to drop off some doughnuts with the Fall 2013 Nomads… just before they launch for their Bridge to North Korea tour.
14 September 2013 // La Jolla, California
Got a really nice meal at this La Jolla restaurant, all thanks to Groupon.
15 September 2013 // San Diego, California
Got a chance to catch up with the Orlinas in San Diego over some good shellfish.
16 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Finally! I’ve wanted a Stone + Cloth backpack for a really long time.
17 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Ran some errands to get paperwork processed in order for me to begin work as a substitute teacher soon.
18 September 2013 // Oildale, California
Spent time in one of my new favorite Bakersfield coffee stops- Covenant Coffee. Good coffee, and a solid mission, too.
19 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna had a little time before class so we went to Peanut Park to continue our game of P-I-G with a pinecone and basketball hoop in disrepair.
20 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Had a good evening with my new friends from all over the world at the International Student Welcome dinner. The international student hangouts continue!
21 September 2013 // Sequoia National Forest, California
Had an awesome picnic in the park planned for a date with Deanna. Then a dust storm came through town, so we took it to Sequoia National Forest. How’s that for adaptable?
22 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
One of my favorite parts of our small group– the cats that come in and out of the room are too hard to take seriously.
23 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
One of my favorite parts of having my own place again is having a workspace to cook up some meals. Been a while since I’ve been able to get experimental.
24 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
While my car was undergoing some very minor repairs, I got to drive around in a Jetta, pretending I’m from Oregon.
25 September 2013 // Los Angeles, California
Spent a pretty spectacular day in L.A. with Deanna, getting Thai food and getting to explore the Griffith Observatory.
26 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
In order to keep the room cool, I use a red blanket as a makeshift temperature curtain. The red glow, though, is a little counterproductive. Gives you an idea of how hot the room can get!
27 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna and I got to spend an evening seeing our friend Zack perform some improv with his team downtown.
28 September 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
On a day trip to Santa Barbara with international students, Deanna and I spent some good time up and down State Street, exploring salt caves, and visiting old friends
29 September 2013 // Goleta, California
Deanna and my visit coincided with an old favorite event– the Depressing Lemon Festival featuring surprisingly potent lemon beer.
30 September 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After weeks and weeks of paperwork and physicals, I finally began my job as a substitute teacher.
01 August 2013 // London, England
While waiting at the Picadilly Circus area, Dee and I went to escape the heat in one of the most touristy shops around. That turned out this gem of a picture.
02 August 2013 // Potters Bar, England
After living almost a month out of a single backpack, I returned to my base camp- Tim’s place! We also had a lot of catching up to do after his own trip to Northern Sweden.
03 August 2013 // Potters Bar, England
Took a diversion from a rainy day in to stock up on more English snacks… Pickle being among my favorite.
04 August 2013 // London, England
At Deanna’s farewell dinner in Southall, she, Tim, and I got to play Sneaky Bunnies with five-year-old Joy. It’s a tough game once you land on Grumpy Farmer.
05 August 2013 // Potters Bar, England
I spent the majority of July pretty much living only off of the contents of this bag. Now it’s time for round two- three more weeks, but this time with Deanna along for the whole thing.
07 August 2013 // Amsterdam, Netherlands
Went with Dee and Catherine to the Icebar- drinks out of ice pint glasses and a very strange 3D movie to boot.
08 August 2013 // Amsterdam, Netherlands
Deanna and I could have very easily missed this amazing cheese shop hidden in a corner- but we didn’t and we were rewarded with some amazing old goat cheese.
09 August 2013 // Prague, Czech Republic
Our first day in Prague was a bit rainy, but we still got some amazing views from across the Charles Bridge.
10 August 2013 // Prague, Czech Republic
One of Prague’s main attractions. Gotta admit, this looks pretty cool. Maybe even a little steampunk.
11 August 2013 // Munich, Germany
My German friends would want me to clarify that 90% of all our beloved German stereotypes come from Bavaria. That said, so does the Hofbrahaus, and it is delicious.
12 August 2013 // Schwarzwald, Germany
Got lost a few times, but even those were rewarded with some really amazing views. The Black Forest is huge!
13 August 2013 // Schwarzwald, Germany
Along the way to Andrea’s parents house, we stopped by this gorgeous village. Unfortunately, I don’t really remember its name, but it’s somewhere along the Black Forest and it’s awesome.
14 August 2013 // Stuttgart, Germany
Went to Stuttgart to reunite with Bianca and Ines! We also got a neat tour of the Mercedes Benz museum, which had this odd interactive feature.
15 August 2013 // Kölliken, Switzerland
Deanna and I went out for a nature walk/bike ride with the kids of her old au pair. These two were a blast to hike and play football with, even though I never understood a word of their Swiss German.
17 August 2013 // Zurich, Switzerland
Unfortunately, I’ll have to go with Zurich as my least favorite European city- namely for being extremely expensive and almost impossible to get out of by bus when we needed to.
18 August 2013 // Munich, Germany
We were able to make it out of Zurich and that got us back to Munich. Again, however, it was on a Sunday when the city shut down. We did go on a nice walk in the park, though.
19 August 2013 // Prague, Czech Republic
Our big backtrack to get back towards London took us through another familiar city- Prague. Didn’t mind getting more Czech food at all.
20 August 2013 // Brussels, Belgium
While I was unimpressed by Brussels my first two times in the city, for some reason I had a really good time exploring now, and I admire its quirks so much more.
21 August 2013 // Brussels, Belgium
Deanna and I climbed a parking garage to get a good view of the Atominium, and found a great view for the entire city as a whole.
22 August 2013 // London, England
Dee and I wanted to hunt down a proper pub experience for our last full day in London. Unfortunately, none of the pubs served food as well.
23 August 2013 // London, England
Beans, sausages, black pudding- whole deal. Dee and I got breakfast with Tim before we’d have to head back to the USA.
24 August 2013 // Ventura, California
Went spice smelling with Matt and Sam in Ventura on our way driving up to Santa Barbara.
25 August 2013 // Goleta, California
I went to Goleta Pier by myself for some quiet time and while I was there, this huge pelican kept trying to steal bait and practically picked fights with a few groups of kids.
26 August 2013 // Fremont, California
This one was pretty excited for mine and Matt’s road trip up north. Nobody told him that he was only going as far as Fremont.
27 August 2013 // Oakland, California
Paid Ryan a visit while passing through Oakland for an evening. We had the chance to go out one night for some Ethiopian food.
28 August 2013 // Ukaiah, California
While driving up to Portland, Matt and I made sure to stop for all the pretty things on the way up, and that meant spending some quality time with the big old Sequoias up the 101
29 August 2013 // Redwoods National Park, California
Just before crossing the California-Oregon border, Matt and I took another pit stop at another State Park- this time, Redwoods, which boasted some amazing nature and some of the freshest air I’ve ever breathed.
30 August 2013 // Portland, Oregon
Met up with Menekşe in a store I could’ve spent hours in. Next Adventure was my kind of outdoor supplies shop, and their bargain basement really was full of deals. Plus that backpack wall was pretty awesome.
31 August 2013 // Portland, Oregon
Got to spend some time out in the sun on Sauvie Island- beaching with Sonny, Kathleen, and Matt.
01 July 2013 // Potters Bar, England
Been nearly a year since I’d last seen Tim! Feels a bit strange to have the tables turned with him hosting me in the UK instead, but it’s great to be reunited.
02 July 2013 // St. Albans, England
Tim took me on a day trip to St. Albans, a neat town centre not too far from Potters Bar. Had a good look around the shops, the pond, the park, and the quirky cathedral.
03 July 2013 // Cambridge, England
Spent the day exploring Cambridge, its many campuses, museums, streams, and classic streets. Then watched a little Wimbledon at a small, local pub.
04 July 2013 // Potters Bar, England
They do have 4th of July in England, just like the old riddle says. This is my second 4th of July spent outside the US, but England is far more ironic than Italy.
05 July 2013 // Potters Bar, England
Got to compete at a Trivia Night in Cockfosters. While I wasn’t much help for most of the British Pop Culture questions, Tim and I put together a solid tag team for “music” and “flags of the world.”
06 July 2013 // London, England
Spent the day out in London, exploring some of the classic sights with Deanna. It was a good day.
07 July 2013 // Southall, England
Got to spend a day in Deanna‘s territory of Southall. It’s like a whole ‘nother country over there from the rest of England.
08 July 2013 // London, England
This is what Heaven looks like, according to J.K. Rowling. It was part of one crazy travel day into Africa.
09 July 2013 // Fez, Morocco
What do you do after a long bus ride to reunite with your cousin in Morocco you haven’t seen in a year and a half?
When it’s 48º outside (that’s 118º F!) you sit on ice packs all afternoon!
10 July 2013 // Fez, Morocco
Nathalie took me out to the old Medina, which was all kinds of chaos during Ramadan. But we did find a few awesome viewpoints and a great rooftop terrace of a café.
11 July 2013 // Ahermoumou, Morocco
Nathalie, Luis, and I got to get out of Fez and do some walking in the smaller, cooler, and more hilly Ahermoumou. When we got lost, a Berber man with a donkey took us in for a feast.
12 July 2013 // Fez, Morocco
For dinner, our Moroccan friends prepared an amazing cous cous platter which we ate family style before heading on a stroll around town.
13 July 2013 // Fez, Morocco
Had a pretty easygoing last day in Morocco. Laundry took just an hour to dry in the crazy heat.
14 July 2013 // Fez, Morocco
On my last night in Fes, Nathalie‘s tutor and friend Ghali took us out for a night of proper tajine and shisha. He also bought me this awesome cup from the Medina, which is supposedly medicinal.
15 July 2013 // Amesbury, England
This was quite the sight. Had an awesome road trip over on the way to Bournemouth.
16 July 2013 // Dorset, England
This easily makes a very short list of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. Such a gorgeous road trip along the English South Coast.
17 July 2013 // London, England
Got to check out the planes on display at the Royal Air Force museum- a pretty impressive collection of old and modern aircrafts
18 July 2013 // Oslo, Norway
Reunited with Eirik for the first time in over a year. What’s one of the first things we do? Climb up this “rock climbing” tent structure at a gas station for the super slide.
19 July 2013 // Grimstad, Norway
Went biking with Eirik to an awesome lake behind his house for swimming, then got to check out the hometown of Grimstad. Great views all over Norway.
20 July 2013 // Kristiansand, England
After exploring Kristiansand, Eirik led me on a nature walk through the woods up Ravnedalen which offered a phenomenal view from the top.
21 July 2013 // Oslo, Norway
Due to ambiguous explanations about my bus pass, I missed my ride to Copenhagen. Had to ride back and forth from Grimstad, but Norway is not a bad place to get stuck.
22 July 2013 // Grimstad, Norway
For my last night in Norway, Eirik took me out to one of the good swim and sunset spots around Grimstad- Groos.
23 July 2013 // Copenhagen, Denmark
After a long day of literally traveling all the way through Denmark, I was rewarded with a wonderful night of exploring Copenhagen thanks to my new bud, Bruce!
24 July 2013 // Malmö, Sweden
Crossed the bridge from Denmark into Malmö, Sweden to reunite with my friend Habib, who I met three years ago at the Vatican. Got treated to a nice tour of the city.
25 July 2013 // Hamburg, Germany
After all of the bus and train rides I’d been on since Norway, I decided staying completely put for a day would be nice, so I camped out at a hostel and took things very easy.
26 July 2013 // Hamburg, Germany
Paul took me out to ride with Critical Mass through Hamburg. Along the way, the rain started to come down real heavily, but we biked through it anyways, which was a blast.
27 July 2013 // Hamburg, Germany
Had an awesome full day exploring Hamburg thanks to Pa Ul! Got to see a lot sailing down the Elbe.
28 July 2013 // Brussels, Belgium
Made it to Brussels after a long overnight ride from Hamburg. Took my chances with the city in the hopes that I could quickly find a ticket to London… I did, and only needed to spend a couple hours at the terminal!
29 July 2013 // Southall, England
Had a great opportunity to help out at Holiday Club at St. George’s in Southall. These kids are fun!
30 July 2013 // Southall, England
Went on a little walk with Dee to buy some British snacks- various cadbury bars, cheese, cumberland crisps, and a scotch egg. Solid lazy day.
31 July 2013 // Southall, England
Deanna and I were treated out to an amazing Afghan meal by Tim and Rachel on her team. This tea was amazing.
01 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Talk about an extensive day of writing… about 4,000 words typed out and another 1,500 by hand. But I’ve got a good set up for cranking out this sort of work.
02 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Left for Bakersfield right after church, only a block away from the SD Rock & Roll Marathon’s finish line. Amazingly, I escaped almost all traffic, like unleashing a Konami code on San Diego.
03 June 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got to take a bunch of pictures of Deanna’s Bible Study girls out on a photoshoot. Fun bunch!
04 June 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Spent most of my day in Bakersfield following Deanna around to her different classes, and to her end of the year cru party. We split a sundae.
05 June 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Before leaving Bakersfield, got to get some awesome Dewar’s ice cream with Deanna the Peelers. Love this place, and how the entire store is refrigerated, practically.
06 June 2013 // San Diego, California
My gas started dropping dangerously low on the way back from seeing Great Gatsby, and the gas station I was banking on had it’s whole payment system go down when I tried to pay. Found this oasis of relatively cheap gas in the middle of a bunch of expensive stops.
07 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Got dessert with Jeremy before another night writing session. Good creme brulee.
08 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Celebrated my one year anniversary with Dee with a sweet moment exchanging gifts and letters at the Rose Garden, then out for cheese and a nice dinner at Bencotto’s, topped off with Extraordinary Desserts.
09 June 2013 // San Diego, California
I’ve had the chance to learn a lot about these two things recently.
10 June 2013 // Poway, California
Deanna and I got to go on a double date with Ivy and JB… indoor rock climbing!
11 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Spent some time with Deanna just walking around Mission Beach, collecting shells and the like.
12 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Got off work earlier than I had expected, so I got to enjoy some time just hanging out at Rebecca’s getting some work done.
13 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Couldn’t pass up on an opportunity for some Dole Whips.
14 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Got to eat up before a night shift… so crab legs it is. Summer is ever so close.
15 June 2013 // San Diego, California
This In-N-Out is usually deserted when I go by. Definitely the quietest In-N-Out I’ve ever seen on a consistent basis.
16 June 2013 // San Diego, California
This guy flew into the backyard to catch some rest apparently. Turned that into a little photoshoot.
17 June 2013 // La Jolla, California
Summer will have more officially arrived for me in just one day… and it’s looking like it’ll be a good one.
18 June 2013 // La Jolla, California
Discovered one of the more unusual workspaces I’ve had… this wood floored lounge, complete with side tables, leather armchairs, and TVs playing Dr. Phil. The unlikely location of this psuedo-living room? The corner of a Ralph’s Grocery Store.
19 June 2013 // San Diego, California
One of my recent routines- extended solo writing sessions while camped out at Rebecca’s. My last one for a while, but I got to enjoy a phenomenal iced coffee.
20 June 2013 // San Diego, California
Packing. This summer is gonna be fun.
World map by Deanna.
21 June 2013 // Poway, California
Spent my last night in San Diego doing a mother-son dinner with Naomi Estrada, Jeremy and Kuma Haywood.
22 June 2013 // Bakersfield, California
These two had a wonderful wedding and I wish them the best! I feel blessed I was even able to attend. I haven’t known them for very long at all, but I definitely feel like I have. They’re that welcoming.
23 June 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After church at The Bridge, Deanna and I hung out with her sister, brother in law, and nephew, until we got hungry. Then we paid Red Brick Pizza a visit.
24 June 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Took Deanna out on a Minor League Baseball date! Gotta love all of the quirks of the Minor Leagues.
25 June 2013 // Pyramid Lake, California
On the drive between Bakersfield and Carson, I made a spur of the moment decision to pull over at the Vista del Lago exit. That resulted in a fun look around the California Water Exhibit and the lovely Pyramid Lake.
27 June 2013 // Harbor City, California
After the day in LA and Griffith Park, we got to spend a little bit of time at the LiNK house visiting Jihyun. Also got to see Nico, Sarah Palmer, and Andrew Quan!
29 June 2013 // Upland, California
While making last minute plans for the trip abroad, I had this one keeping me company.
30 June 2013 // Los Angeles, California
Overdue for an update! The flight from LA to London went by incredibly fast. Dee and I had some setbacks upon arrival with technology related things, but overall things have settled well!
01 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Another day of hunkering down at Rebecca’s to get some work done – no complaints.
02 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Spent a lunch break catching up with Steven about life back in San Diego.
03 May 2013 // La Jolla, California
Got off of work close to midnight, which isn’t all that bad. The night time is peaceful around these parts.
04 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Deanna visited San Diego to celebrate my birthday with me this past weekend after throwing an anti-bullying conference the day before. It was an awesome time together.
05 May 2013 // San Diego, California
This just might’ve been my best birthday yet! Got to spend it with my mom, the Orlina family, Jeremy, theCal West Nomads, and Deanna… awesome people all over the place together under one roof eating mashed potato pizza.
06 May 2013 // San Diego, California
I was in search of a perfect, nearby coffee shop to wrap up a date with Dee. The only non-Starbucks option around was Java Mama. I didn’t read much into the name, and only discovered upon walking in that they were just as Mama as they were Java- their coffee bar overlooked a playground area, complete with dress up costumes, for moms to watch their kids play as they sipped their lattes. We were probably the only non-parents in there, but it was babies + coffee, so Deanna was very happy.
10 May 2013 // Torrance, California
I got to visit a certain old office stomping grounds while in Torrance… so awesome seeing everyone again, and all the Nomads back from the road.
11 May 2013 // Irvine, California
I completed my mission of the month for April in training, and had a fun time running the Color Run in OC with Adrianne and Erwin!
12 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Took my mom to get some Hawaiian Shave Ice for a Mothers’ Day Treat. She seemed to enjoy it.
13 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Finally got a new set of some prescription glasses in the mail, after having my old pair for way too long.
14 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Summer is Fish Taco season. So are Winter, Spring, and Fall. But Summer is Fish Taco season AND Summer, so that’s extra cool.
15 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Got to do lunch with Ivy & Alex at a hip little ramen joint in Little Italy. Good eats.
16 May 2013 // San Diego, California
One of the perks of being back in San Diego… coming back from work to find plates like these to lose yourself in.
17 May 2013 // La Jolla, California
I’ve got a lot to look forward to. Ready for you, Summer.
18 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Spent the morning grabbing coffee in Golden Hill, reading, talking to strangers, and taking pics. Love the imbalance of this shot.
19 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Needed some unwind, introvert time in the evening. Twas a success.
20 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Twas a good day to go without any plans, enjoy some good food, and lake life a few notches slower.
21 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Discovered a new crêpe place with Alex Orlina. A bit pricey, but probably because they’ve nailed the French atmosphere of the place to the last detail, and it’s just a Euro to Dollar conversion.
22 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Spent most of the day getting some writing done in North Park. Not a bad workspace.
23 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Took the GRE at San Diego State. One step along the very long grad school process complete. Think I’m happy with how I did.
24 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Got to get a quick lunch before work at this really good, somewhat unsuspecting, dessert spot.
25 May 2013 // La Jolla, California
Had a bit of a surprise reunion in La Jolla after work. It’s been almost a year since I last saw Allen, Laura, or Nikki. Hennesey’s is a cozy spot.
26 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Got to enjoy a little Memorial Day BBQ in the parking lot after church. That included a little cornhole action.
27 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Memorial Day deserves some good food.
28 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Took my mon out for a photoshoot as a belated birthday outing.
29 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Thanks to Randall Higgins I got a proper tour of the restaurants and other quirks of one of my favorite parts of San Diego to lurk. Just might look into a place around here this fall.
30 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Met up with Danny after work next to the North Park Theatre. I’ve always loved water towers… mostly thanks to Animaniacs.
32 May 2013 // San Diego, California
Went back to Champagne bakery because they are that good.
01 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Got to spend time with my stepdad, listening to his military stories from Korea. A perk of being back home.
02 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Spent the day mostly camped out at home, trying to explore some prospects for grad school and other things.
04 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Most of what my days have been consisting of lately: looking at jobs, studying for the GRE, scouting out grad schools, running. And coffee. That too.
05 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Went out for Thai food with Ivy. One of my favorites.
06 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Took a short walk around the lake, one of the things I’ve been enjoying more lately.
07 April 2013 // San Diego, California
First time eating at a Smashburger… in my opinion, the burger parody of GameStop. Good food, though. I’d missed American burgers!
08 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Went to the new Lestat’s for a bit of a writing session with Jeremy. Definitely more of these to come.
09 April 2013 // Oceanside, California
Drove up to Oceanside to spend the evening with my aunts visiting in their time share. Also, Joe’s Crab Shack!
10 April 2013 // Oceanside, California
Spent the day exploring Carlsbad and Oceanside with my Auntie Ella for her 80th birthday.
11 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Got a job! Decided to celebrate by reliving tour days and sampling everything at Whole Foods.
12 April 2013 // Santa Clarita, California
The drive to Bakersfield is a long one, but I love it once I get to the Grapevine. Left early after watching Wreck-It Ralph.
13 April 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After dinner at Frugatti’s for Deanna‘s grandmas birthdays, we took a walk out in the park, and Simon got to test out his new stomp rocket.
14 April 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna and I went to the Bakersfield Carrot Festival after church, which apparently downgraded to a regular Farmers Market- but its okay, we got roast corn.
15 April 2013 // Bakersfield, California
After getting pho, Deanna, Riho, Boram, and I decided to be cool kids by getting Thrifty Ice Cream and eating on the street curb.
16 April 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Got the chance to explore CSUB’s campus for most of the day while Deanna had class. Also got to catch up with Meaghan and Chris.
17 April 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Before driving out to Irvine for Catalyst, I had a wonderful morning with Deanna, eating crêpes and taking a walk around the Bakersfield Falls.
18 April 2013 // Irvine, California
This was one of the many interesting goings on at the first day of Catalyst.
19 April 2013 // Irvine, California
One of my favorite moments of Catalyst- surprise appearances by Kid President and Rainn Wilson.
20 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Ben & Jerry’s makes Cannoli Ice Cream. Highlight of my day. Of course, I’m still waiting for them to take my flavor suggestion of “Jack Johnson’s Banana Pancakes.”
21 April 2013 // San Diego, California
The street corner right behind church sneaks you a pretty sweet view of Petco Park and Downtown San Diego from behind.
22 April 2013 // La Jolla, California
Decided to run a few errands around La Jolla right before work- definitely enjoy getting to the neighborhood a bit earlier to find new places.
23 April 2013 // La Jolla, California
Finished the identical looking journal that I started at the beginning of the year which lasted me through South Africa. Next chapter!
24 April 2013 // La Jolla, California
Rebecca’s is now one of my favorite coffee shops in San Diego to set up camp for the day and get some work done. If only I lived a little closer to South Park.
25 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Convinced my mom to go on a sushi run with me. Spicy Tuna FTW.
26 April 2013 // La Jolla, California
Spent a little time just walking around UTC to unwind before work.
27 April 2013 // San Diego, California
Went to the beach clean up with Mosaic- and by beach clean up, I mean they had finished cleaning by the time I got there, so I just had fun.
28 April 2013 // San Diego, California
I’ve been going to Mosaic San Diego lately. I’m pretty sure I’ve found a community I’m excited to call home.
29 April 2013 // La Jolla, California
Cal West had a lighter schedule for one day, so I was able to take Chi, Jihyun, and YJ around San Diego a bit, going for pho, out to Pacific Beach, visiting street shops, and getting some Mexican food.
30 April 2013 // La Jolla, California
Went out to the UCSD Rescue Team screening of Danny From North Korea… the Cal West Nomads killed it! And that’s two refugees rescued for UCSD. If you haven’t seen Danny From North Korea yet, it’s a must: dannyfromnorthkorea.com
01 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
These girls are always singing, stomping, and dancing. And their song selection is pretty diverse- Rhianna, church hymns, and the South African national anthem.
02 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Jay took me out for lunch to get a proper South African steak. This one came smothered in Madagascar green pepper sauce, and was fantastic. This + Thai food earlier = first food coma in a while.
03 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
There was a lot of hanging out going on in the courtyard after church. And on Sundays, they wear pink.
04 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Afternoons in the play room… there’s a lot going on.
05 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
One of the oldest guys at the centre. I’ve been mentoring him since arriving. He’s hoping to go to join the Air Force to become a pilot when he’s done with school.
06 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
There’s nothing quite like the unbridled enthusiasm that the kids in the creche shower me with.
07 March 2013 // Livingstone, Zambia
Got an awesome view of the spray from the Victoria Falls rising up from my window seat on my flight to Livingstone. This was amazing.
08 March 2013 // Livingstone, Zambia
Although it’s one of the larger and more known Zambian towns, Livingstone is still quite small and quiet. Definitely a contrast to my part two months in Johannesburg.
09 March 2013 // Livingstone, Zambia
This was awesome. I cannot believe I actually got to see this in person.
10 March 2013 // Livingstone, Zambia
After spending my Sunday morning visiting a Zambian church for the local experience, I spent the rest of the day chilling at the hostel. A contributing factor: my shoes, drying out in the window remained wet from the Victoria Falls’ spray.
11 March 2013 // Livingstone, Zambia
Although I had to do the Zambia trip alone, I managed to pick the perfect hostel for meeting cool people- namely some British NGO workers doing neat things.
12 March 2013 // Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Went back to see the Falls- but this time from the Zimbabwean side. I hoped that it would be easy to cross into Zimbabwe, and I was pleasantly surprised to see that it was as easy as taking a walk.
13 March 2013 // Chobe National Park, Botswana
Got to get up close and personal with some elephants, and other wonderful African beasts on a game drive and river cruise in Botswana.
14 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Back to the centre for one final week… ready to take in as much quality time with the kids as possible.
15 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
First time seeing the other side of TOMS’ One for One program when boxes arrived at the centre. Simphiwe and the others are all looking trendy in their new TOMS shoes.
16 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Collins looking on as everyone else kicks around soccer balls. Its some of these ordinary scenes that I’m really going to miss when I leave the centre.
17 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I FINALLY got to check out Arts on Main’s Sunday Market. In the middle of Joburg’s gritty centre city is the gentrified artsy trendy precinct of Maboneng. A foodie’s dream!
18 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Probably one of the most chaotic- although fun days at the centre… the supporter supper! Awesome food, great conversations, and some fun performances from the kiddos.
19 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Leaving the centre is not going to be easy. This is why.
20 March 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Pastor Mike Sunker, founder and director of 5Cees, is definitely a hero of mine. Listening to him tell me about his visits to the townships and his plans to move to the centre to spend more time with the kids was super inspiring. Through action, he’s taught me a lot about having vision and being present.
21 March 2013 // Amsterdam, Netherlands
My favorite part about airports are how the people there are from anywhere and everywhere.
22 March 2013 // San Diego, California
My first meal out upon returning to the US? No big surprise…
23 March 2013 // San Diego, California
Training for the Color Run- first bit of real exercise after almost a year without! Since I can use whatever motivation I can get, I picked up some new running shoes. Appropriately neon enough for the Color Run.
24 March 2013 // San Diego, California
Not so fond of working inside the house, so I use that as my excuse to go coffee shop hunting.
25 March 2013 // Coronado, California
Went out for a pretty nice dinner at Coronado with Jeremy and family… great seeing him again!
26 March 2013 // San Diego, California
Ran into this guy while on my morning run at the lake. Not quite as good of a running partner as a dog.
27 March 2013 // Goleta, California
It’s been far too long since I’ve seen either of these two! How to celebrate? Revisiting the site of a great evening hangout, one year before.
28 March 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
Got to go on a double date with Derek and Holly while in Santa Barbara, and really enjoyed the new sausage restaurant we found on State.
29 March 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
Finally found ’em. I’ve been trying to hunt these down since returning to the USA. How am I suppose to vote for my favorite flavor if I can’t try ’em all? True democracy demands access… also, they were out of the chicken and waffles flavor.
30 March 2013 // Lake Arrowhead, California
Had an awesome day exploring Lake Arrowhead with Deanna and family. Nature walks, wine tasting… pretty much a blast.
31 March 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
Deanna’s aunt and uncle totally spoiled us during our time at the lake. It was pretty wonderful.
01 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I got to walk around and explore Wits University, Joburg’s biggest university. Whether it be my own UCSB, or all the other schools I visited on tour, I’ve missed college campuses.
02 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Got to participate in a community outreach event in Fine Town- a Johannesburg township where an estimated 500 orphan-headed households are located.
03 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Another day in the life of some of my favorite boys. The day’s adventure? It involves an empty garbage bin and an empty stroller.
04 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
One of my favorite things to do while visiting another country is to go to the grocery store. Oddly simple, but that kind of gives you one of the better glimpses at everyday life!
On a less ordinary note, to get to the grocery store, I had to drive in opposite traffic for the first time!
05 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Just before dinner, this sport erupted, which seemed to be a mix between cricket, dodgeball, and rugby. Whichever way, it was fun!
06 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
The girls’ dorm just got a new foosball table donated!
07 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Spent most of a calmer, quieter day within the centre. Pretty relaxing.
08 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
If I’m allowed to admit to having favorites, Solly is one of them! It’s probably partly because he has an obvious best friend and partly because every time he sees me, he yells my name from across the center, smiles real big, and doesn’t really have much more to say after that.
09 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
A random dance party erupted in the centre. I definitely approve.
10 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Ajith took me to the church where he is a pastor, out in Bramley, a much quieter Joburg suburb.
11 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Elias: Take a picture of me to put online for the American girls.
Alright, Elias.
12 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Got my first taste of South African fast food… the Steak, Egg, & Chips combo at Wimpy, while waiting for my flight to Cape Town.
13 February 2013 // Cape Town, South Africa
Bo-Kaap is Cape Town’s Malay Quarters, basically a gentrified township. Its close-knit Muslim community and these awesomely colored houses give it a lot of personality.
14 February 2013 // Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s oldest standing building. It’s quite large, and from the top, you get a really good view of the city. Spent a good amount of time exploring this yesterday.
15 February 2013 // Simon’s Town, South Africa
I took the train south to Simon’s Town and spent my day hanging out with the penguins at Boulders Beach. Day well spent.
16 February 2013 // St. James, South Africa
I took the train and got a hop on/hop off pass which allowed me to visit every stop on the way to Simon’s Town. St. James had one of the better beaches, and fun looking booths.
17 February 2013 // Cape Town, South Africa
I got to take a cable car up to the top of Table Mountain. Some amazing views from up top.
18 February 2013 // Cape Town, South Africa
‘Twas my last full day in Cape Town. One last chance to visit all my fave spots, and to eat at my favorite food places once more. I’m gonna miss it!!
19 February 2013 // Cape Town, South Africa
Glad I put off buying most of my souvenirs up until the very last minute… the open air market in Greenmarket Square gives you the proper haggling experience.
20 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Getting back into the swing of things in Joburg. It’s good to be with the kids again.
21 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I missed my Joburg crew, and my Joburg crew missed me. Back to hanging with these dudes.
22 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I’ve learned about 40 variations of games you can play with a back alley and a soccer ball, thanks to spending time at 5Cees.
23 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I’ve been teaching the kids about photobombing. And other valuable life lessons.
24 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I finally got to go to church at Bryanston, after hearing so much about it and meeting everybody each Wednesday. I felt quite at home. Having an IKEA-like living room helps, of course.
25 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
The new evening homework hour isn’t exactly the most popular with the kids at the centre, but we’re going for higher marks!
26 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
With less than a month left in South Africa, I’m aiming to make the most of my remaining days at the centre. It’ll nice to be back home, but these kids are gonna be tough to leave.
27 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I’m on a quest to get portraits of all of the kids at the centre. Amahle is on a quest to do some painting.
28 February 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
These two requested a portrait session while I was hanging out with Sifundo after study hour.
01 January 2013 // Fremont, California
Got to reunite with Daniel Santos for the first time in months, then got to reunite with Matt in Fremont en route to Sacramento.
02 January 2013 // Fairfield, California
Spent the morning taking a tour of the Jelly Belly factory and sampling the beans. Also, their fudge.
04 January 2013 // Sacramento, California
Before leaving on our drive back down to Santa Barbara, Deanna and I went into Downtown Sacramento for coffee at Broadstreet. Reminded me a lot of Portland.
05 January 2013 // Santa Barbara, California
My first full day back in Santa Barbara was reunion filled. This is what going to a bar will be like in 2013.
07 January 2013 // Isla Vista, California
Spent the day catching up with a TON of people. Best way to visit. Also spent the morning out by these cliffs. Miss doing that every morning.
08 January 2013 // Goleta, California
Spent the afternoon catching up with Gabe and loitering around KMart a couple times. 'Twas a good day loaded with catch up sessions.
09 January 2013 // Goleta, California
Before leaving Santa Barbara for Bakersfield, I got to finally catch the Burger Bus and had lunch withDaniel.
10 January 2013 // Bakersfield, California
I got to wander through Bakersfield a bit whileDeanna was in class today. Discovered this little area.
11 January 2013 // Bakersfield, California
Deanna showed me one of her favourite Bakersfield secrets, this tucked away crêpes restaurant. We got to have lunch with Meaghan Lingo!
12 January 2013 // Sequoia National Forest, California
Dee and I spent part of our day together in Bakersfield by venturing far out into the Sequoia National Forest for a picnic. It was chilly out, so the picnic went down inside her Subaru.
14 January 2013 // San Diego, California
Spent the day running last minute errands and getting everything all packed up for South Africa. Rand, malaria pills, and a whole lotta reading.
15 January 2013 // San Diego, California
On my last night in the U.S., I went with Ivy to a Russian-Georgian restaurant with a poetic menu, a spicy chocolate sauce, and flecks of pomegranate in everything.
16 January 2013 // Jamaica, New York
It's pretty dark and cold out in New York. Fortunately, I never had to leave the airport.
17 January 2013 // Amsterdam, Netherlands
While I didn't have enough time on my layover to get out and actually see Amsterdam, the airport is odd and interesting enough to keep me occupied for a while.
18 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
My first full day at the centre was a slow and quiet one. Everybody expected me to be pretty much resting after two full days of traveling, so I took them up on the offer.
19 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I went to the mall to get some groceries and other supplies. So far, it's been all rain while I've been in Joburg.
20 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I went to church at Hillbrow Christian Church, which conveniently shares its initials with Hope Community-Church Santa Barbara. One slight difference, though, is that some of the worship is in Zulu.
21 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Some of the kids invited me to play football with them at the centre. I hope they thought I was letting them win. I wasn't.
22 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Atop the teenage boys' dormitory at the centre, you can get a pretty good view of Mitchell St. One of my favourite perches for people watching.
23 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Although I've had pap a few times now and am pretty used to it, the kids can't resist asking me if I've ever had it before and if I eat it every time.
24 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Bonani asked me for help with his Afrikaans homework. While I'm not really qualified due to my not-speaking-Afrikaans-at-all, we figured out how to write out sentences, use the words you know, dictionary the rest, and rearrange for grammar.
25 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
These kids are absolutely fascinated with whatever it is I do. They're also constantly playing in the hallway outside my door, so every trip to and from my room consists of interacting with my Zulu fan club.
26 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Elias and I went on a walk around Hillbrow, and went all the way to Constitution Hill. I got to look at the Great African Steps on the back.
27 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Neo and I went on a walk to Killarney Mall, and on the way stopped by The Views, a nature reserve named after this panoramic it provides.
28 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
I swung by the Kresh (preschool) yesterday to help Teacher Magret move some books to the library. The kids were a mix of happy and confused to see me there.
29 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
Olwethu is three-and-a-half. She's one of the newest girls at the centre. I got to take her portrait, and several of the other new kids' yesterday.
31 January 2013 // Johannesburg, South Africa
You guys! More letters keep coming in. I have the kindest friends. Thank you Sean Ferry and Carolina Maldonado, as well as Catherine Lieu, whose card I just received. These mean so much to me!
