The Laptop Arrives

Yes, I am a returning to the world of high tech...and it feels dang good to be typing away on a laptop with a wireless connection! I never knew it could be so easy. I mean, all I do is click on this little bubble that my computer automatically pops up when I'm in my apartment because the smart little thing senses a wireless network. And then *bing* I'm online. Aaahhhhh! No cords, just me and the laptop and most likely a cuppa tea sitting right next to me.

Goodbye big desktop computer with the huge honkin' monitor! Helloooo sleek, silver baby! It just makes want to go to Starbucks and be one of the tens of millions sitting at a little round table with their laptop and mocha frappuccino, typing away!

First Day of Classes

Today was my first day of graduate classes at Columbia. I haven't been in a classroom in 7 years and I have to admit, it was exhilarating to be sitting around a small table and exchanging ideas and opinions with a group of people and with a professor to lead us.

With 7 years of life experience, I see how this has already enriched my learning in the classroom. I felt so giddy that I was uber conscious of my feelings. I felt like one of those "older" students, with always something to say and therefore always contributing to class, not afraid to sit next to the professor, and gets ahead in the readings! *ick* I know, just call me a nerd...go ahead. I always have been and am proud of my nerd status.

My classes are interesting: the first is Anthropology and the Philanthropic Project (which understands how the discipline of British and American anthropology was shaped due to funding from private foundations and governmental agencies) and the second is Black Revolts in the Modern World (which historically examines black social movements throughout the world to combat slavery, sexism, civil rights, etc. and how radical black intelligentsia is formed).

Okay, enough anthropological babbling...more to come! Thanks for reading!

Permed!!!

I don't know what got over me...

After numerous attempts (the last one, some 18 years ago) of looking like a french poodle...I decided to perm my hair. Yes...for those of you who've always known me with straight hair - look out! Years of past perming taught me that the tighter the curl, the more poodle-esque I looked so this time I opted for the wavy perm whose curls aren't so tight.

And voila! I've got soft locks that resemble Nicole Kidman's on Cold Mountain (when it looked tidy and combed though!) but not Days of Thunder.

Hope you like the look when you see me next - don't be surprised!

Acceptance to Columbia University!

I received a wonderful present on New Year's Eve: there was a "thick" envelope from Columbia sitting in my mailbox. I ripped it open and discovered a letter of acceptance to the MA program in Anthropology. I was thrilled! The department's rich history and legacy is comprised of former faculty members like Franz Boas, Margaret Mead, and Ruth Benedict (among others) who were central in shaping the discipline as we know it today. I am honored to be a part of the tradition and to walk in such distinguished halls. Hooray!!!

Classes start next week and I plan on attending part-time (taking 2 classes per semester) while I continue working full-time. I will quite a tired and busy (!) lady these next 2.5 years but I know my hard work will be worth it.

Thanks everyone for reading my good news!