One Step, Two Steps

First set of photos.

2010-09-22T05:14:00.000-07:00

Other blog is for photos, you know the drill:) Clicky Clicky

Story from the Bengal about my trip

2010-09-18T07:34:00.001-07:00

In December of 2009, I decided to volunteer abroad with International Student Volunteers. Half a year later, in July of 2010, I found myself in the Dominican Republic at Rancho Campeche.
I kept a journal of my thoughts and impressions. This is part of it.
The ecological campground host about 150 volunteers a year from around the world. The group I was in had 20 volunteers. I was just one of those volunteers putting my grain of sand into the pile, as Xiomara Fortuna, founder of the camp, said. When she was little, she loved to camp, and that is one reason she made the ecological campsite.
The Dominican Republic is located on the same island in the Caribbean as Haiti and did have some damage from the devastating earthquake. The nation is very poor.
I was in the Dominican Republic to infect people with kindness. The people of El Limon, Los Francos and Duveaux have known little fairness in their life. The volunteer project we were working on had been in progress for two summers, and we were the last group to put in our efforts that season.
We were working on two separate projects: building a community center and teaching children about basic hygiene and English. As the last group, we felt the pressure to get the community center as close to done as possible and leave the children with an impression of kindness and a growing thirst for knowledge.
I went into this wanting to prove to myself that I could help people in any way, even without the correct skill set. I think many people think they can’t help because they don’t know how, but during this trip, I learned that all you have to do is raise your hand. Raise your hand and say, “I’ll help,” and someone will give you a shovel and teach you how to make cement by hand.
By the end of our two weeks, we had almost finished painting the community center, finished cementing the tiny store along with its paint almost done as well and dug a hole from two-feet to about five-feet. The last one sounds silly, but when that hole reaches nine-feet, it will be made into a bathroom that could last up to 20 years.
I feel the community center will make the community meet and face their problems. There was a hushed feeling as we walked through town every other day to the worksite.
It is the small moments during a volunteer trip like this that show you what an impact you are making. At the end of the first week, we took all the children to the beach to pick up trash as a way to teach them that the world isn’t one big garbage can. We each were assigned to watch one child, and that day I was assigned Francisco, an eight-year-old sweetheart that was a bit small for his age.
As we were playing in the water after the trash removal, a group of young men started singing a song about getting a visa from an American—that summer’s big hit. I’d become used to hearing the foreign words that I didn’t understand, but knew the meaning of and simply ignored them.
I looked down at Francisco just as he gave the men an ugly look of disgust. I took his hand we walked away together, leaving the men looking confused.
It seems like such a small moment that could mean nothing, but after spending time in this foreign place, I realize that it meant a lot. It meant that the ideals of an eight-year-old boy might be changing. That maybe when Francisco grows up he will have long ago realized that education gets you further than marrying an American. It meant that his mindset about women might be different than his father’s.
“We are here from around the world, but we sit here as though we are one big family,” said Fortuna.
One of the first nights we spent at the camp, Fortuna talked with us about why we were there. While she had just met us, her face told us she already loved us, and she realized it took a certain type of person to come so far just to help a stranger.
Fortuna is an amazing individual. It is people like her that I want to go around the world and find—simply to tell his or her story.
Fortuna is a person very in tune with her natural surrounding. She asked us not to kill tarantulas, no matter the size, because in the Dominican Republic, they are not poisonous. She emphasized that they will not bother you if you do not bother them.
We had a tarantula living in the women’s bathroom, and yes, it was a little nerve-racking.
My efforts in the Dominican Republic did not come without challenge. There were days when the language barrier between the children and myself caused frustration to the point of headaches. Construction days at the community center produced sore muscles that made it hard to sleep. But that was the beauty of it in the end—the pain that teaches you more about yourself than you ever thought possible.

Advanced reporting.

2010-08-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

I'm taking it this year. My first assignment is to write a story about my experiences in the DR. In conclusion, you WILL see SOMETHING on Friday:) I feel so lazy for not getting this stuff up already. But I have 18 credits, as of tonight, and 3, yes count them, 3 jobs. But I'll make it, because I think, secretly, I get some sort of sick high off of being stressed.

Don't think--just do,
Elaine

Back from the DR, lacking posts.

2010-08-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

So I didn't update my blog the whole time I was in the DR. Why? Because I ended up having way less internet time than I thought and I had to pay for it. More so the lack of time though. Depressing, I know, but look forward to a couple weeks of me typing up stuff from my written journal, which I did keep up pretty well, and photos to go with it. Oh, and if you donated, you will receive a letter in the mail as well!

Much love,

Elaine.

Well, the time has come.

2010-07-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

I'm about 4 hours from the start of my adventure! I WILL NOT have my phone. So texting and calling me is pointless. HOWEVER if you want to know how I'm doing, I'll be updating my blog about two weeks into my trip (that is the first time I'll have internet access). Thank you all for your support and love! LOVE YOU ALL:)

I'm finally done packing! That was thrilling. Haha. Every time I thought I had everything, there would be just one more thing and I would have to go back to the store! But, it is all worth it--no matter how many times I was grumbling about it as it happened.

There is so much I should say right now, but I am speechless. I'm sure words will spill when it is all over and done. That is when I'll have something worth saying. Until then, I only wish for the most open mind while I take the first steps in this life-changing experience.

Less than a week.

2010-07-17T10:00:00.001-07:00

Less than a week until I am off to the DR. I'm so super excited! I don't even know what to say. I'm pretty sure I should type up something amazing for you all right before I leave, but right now, I have to go shopping.

Strange

2010-07-06T08:06:00.001-07:00

Last night, for the first time since I've thought of going on this trip, I felt nervous. Then I shook it off. This is going to be awesome. 16 days!

Don't think--just do,

Elaine

Rancho Campeche

2010-06-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

Rancho Campeche is the local group I will be working with in the DR. They have two points of focus: 1) to encourage learning amongst children in the areas of hygiene, math, English and manners while also maintaining their local culture through encouraging Dominican folklore and music to thrive 2) to improve the area with better infrastructure through building sustainable buildings and creating recreational areas as well. In my group we will be working on both of these goals. So I get to work with children and help build something. It really does not get much better than that.

This is the second year ISV has provided volunteers and some funds to Rancho Campeche. So it is really important that we maintain the positive relationship that was formed last year. With out ISV, Rancho Campeche would not have enough man power and funding for their projects.

So there is the mirco version of what I'll be doing and why. But nothing will tell the tale like when I'm actually there.

Speaking of: I will be keeping a journal while I'm there and will type it up when I'm back and put it up here. When I will not have internet access the first two weeks I'm there (while doing the volunteer project) but will have some access the second two weeks (while on the adventure tour of the country). In those second two weeks I'll make post whenever I can. I really hope to hear from you guys through comments. I love all the support I've received and hope to receive more while in the DR.

Don't think--just do,
Elaine<3

Less than a month!

2010-06-24T16:19:00.000-07:00

Haven't been on forever! Nothing about the trip has come up for a long time-until now! I now know my project and have a list of people that I will be working with. It is actually a pretty small group of about 20. We are getting to know each other over facebook! Oh, how you are forced to love the internet. Anyhow, I'm running late, which seems to be the norm this summer. So I'll catch you all up on what my trip is about next week!

Don't think--just do,
Elaine.

No internet

2010-05-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

Well I guess I shouldn't say NO internet, but here is the story. I'm living with my aunt for a month until the place I want to live is available and she doesn't have internet. So every time I want to use the internet I have to go down to the school. I didn't realize how much I use the internet until now. Heh. But anyways, all else is going fairly well. I have about 2 months left to go until I leave for the DR and, for lack of better and less cliche words, it could not come faster!

I am taking a summer class, actually I think I already mentioned that. And well after day two I decided it will be pretty awesome and a great way to tone my photography skills for my trip:) Plus, my professor seems awesome!

Don't think--just do,
Elaine

Last Call

2010-04-29T12:07:00.000-07:00

Last call for donations for my trip is May 5th. This will give me time to pay the rest myself! To all who have donated, again, THANK YOU:)

Love, Elaine

Coming to an end.

2010-04-12T19:57:00.000-07:00

School, very slowly, is coming to an end. I'm busy with final projects and essays at school and yet it seem like it is going by so slow.

Update on life: I have to take a summer class. Booo. Oh well, being beautiful and smart is hard work! Haha. I'm in one of those moods where everything that comes out of my mouth is a joke. But alas, I really do have to take Intro to Photography this summer because of a series of unfortunate scheduling conflicts. In a way it will be awesome though because I'll be all practiced up for taking pictures in the Dominican Republic. Funny part is though, I took a 300 level Photo Journalism class this semester already, but I still have to take this requirement.

Plans for the summer as a result of the above incident: work at JCP and get as many hours as I can to help pay for the trip, go to class, do the homework, pass the class then, when the class is over, I get to go on a backpacking trip with my dad and sister! After that little blast from the past (we used to get to go three times a summer!) I will be off on a plane to Miami, where I will then be whisked away to the Dominican Republic to help some people and have the adventure of a lifetime. Those last two things will keep me alive through the next three months.

That's life as of right now!
Check out my other blog for some of the photos I am thinking of putting in my final portfolio for Photojournalism! The link is on the right of the page. I've really loved that class! Later I will put up the ones that are finals for the Day in the Life of Project. I have 17 in the, how can you put it, semi-finals? We'll see soon which ones make it!

Travel Insurance.

2010-03-22T18:39:00.001-07:00

Whew! I finally called back STA and got my travel insurance all taken care of PLUS I booked my flight from Boise to Miami! So, once I email ISV my last two pieces of documentation (med. insurance and the travel) I will be done with paper work! Unless they throw something else at me. All I have left is to get this thing all the way payed for, which I'm doing decent on right now. To all of you family members and friends that have donated, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

Have a great spring break, by the way, everyone.

Don't think-- just do,
Elaine

A Day in the Life of . . .

2010-03-12T16:53:00.000-08:00

My photojournalism class just did a "Day in the Life of Pocatello" project on Wednesday, March 10. About 25 of us were out all day long taking photos of everything that is Pocatello. There is more going on in a small town like Pocatello than you would think. This project has expanded my mind if nothing else. Maybe one day I'll end up just taking pictures. You never know.

Be on the look out of some of the photos around campus and on my other blog, "Elaine's Creations."

Family

2010-02-16T17:05:00.001-08:00

I went home for the weekend to Boise to see the parents and my sister! Love them! No progress in ISV, but that is to be expected when you are with your family! I'm hoping this week with be productive.

Don't think, just do.

-Elaine.

Oh goodness

2010-02-04T19:52:00.000-08:00

I've been so super busy! I just realized that I haven't posted for over a week. Not acceptable. But right now I'm suffering from sleep deprivation from three 12 hour work days in a row. But I'll give a quick update.

ISV: I mailed out my letters requesting sponsorship to family and friends yesterday. To all who choos to check out my blog after reading that letter: thanks! Love you all! I've also decided where I'm going to purchase my travel insurance, but that is another post . . . another time.

School: I have 16 credits plus I'm peer instructing a class for no credit (Yes, I'm that crazy . . . I mean nice :D). I might have over done it. But I can make it through one semester, especially with the Dominican Republic to look forward to.

JC Penneys: For those that don't know, I work there. Right now I'm getting about 10 hours a week, which is bad money wise, but I'm having a "thank the heavens" moment about right now.

I think that is all I have the strength to type right now. Sorry in advanced for the errors, which I can't see right now, but I'm sure are there. Heh, I'll fix them later, when I'm more awake!

-Elaine

Refer a Friend - Reduce your Program Cost!

2010-01-27T13:29:00.000-08:00

I just received this email from ISV!

Refer a Friend - Reduce your Program Cost!

ISV is giving you a chance to save money by referring friends to the ISV Program. Every time you refer a new participant to this summer’s program, you will receive $200 USD off your program cost!

Refer 10 new participants and we will cover your program costs! (valued at $3,295 USD).

Each new participant who lists you as the referral will also receive $100 USD off his or her program costs so start telling your friends and colleagues now!*

To receive this incentive, after being accepted into the ISV Program, your referred participant must write “referred by - your name - your school” in the promo code box on their Program Agreement.

SO, if you are even thinking about this program do it now to grab this opportunity! Not only will you be helping me, but you will be helping yourself with the $100 off! It is not to late to start this journey! If you do make sure to list me and "Elaine Washam- Idaho State University"

I think this is pretty cool of them. Also, tell your friends that are in to traveling and volunteering about my blog so they can get the discount!

--Elaine.

The Semester Starts and Time is on the Run Again

2010-01-21T21:11:00.001-08:00

Well, the semester has hit the end of it's second week which means the real work is just starting. I'll admit that this week was not a good one for my pursuit of ISV. All I managed to get done was fill out my flight preference form and mail it in with my flight deposit. Oh, I guess I also figured out how to get travel and flight insurance, I just have to decide who I am buying from. Well at least it is something.

I really just need to start focusing on my fund raising. But next week is a new week and I'm all smiles.

-Elaine

Procrastination

2010-01-18T18:35:00.000-08:00

Procrastination is to the college student as the the sound of a roaring train is to the damsel in distress tired to the rails. You can feel it coming--you can hear it coming--then you can see it coming and your heart does a desperate flop to the pit of your stomach--perhaps trying to escape the inevitable. The end is near.

But I've found my cure for my procrastination--my savior who will untie the ropes.

Do what I WANT to do first.

Maybe this isn't a new concept to many. Maybe some people figured this out a long time ago and failed to tell me. And if that is you--shame shame on you! That wasn't very nice!

See, I'm a big fan of the to-do list. I can't function with a nice little calender or planner where every second of my life is listed out. I just make a list of things that I really ought to get done and that is that. And for the most part it really was working for me. The thrill of crossing something out and all, well, it is a nerds high.

But I had one problem. I always looked at the list and like many have advised, I did the thing I dreaded most first. But by the time I got done with it, I would look at the rest of the list and not feel like it anymore. Turn the clock back about an hour or so ago and I had a real passion brewing in me to do at least one thing on that list. But the other task just drained me.

But as of this past semester, I just started to do the things I liked and wanted to do first. I had more passion for them as I was doing them. Eventually I would get to the task that I really didn't want to do, but, well, it would be the last thing to do and I would have that "just get it over with" feeling and that seemed to be sufficient enough.

Of course there are exceptions: like that thing I don't want to do is due very, very soon. We all know at that point that it is just time to do it.

The more I write about this little discovery of mine, the more I think it may be very bad advice for some people, perhaps a train wreck. But for me . . . it untied the ropes.

Paper work and ISV

2010-01-18T09:50:00.001-08:00

If after reading my blog you think to yourself, "You know, I really should do something like this." Then this next post is for you.

YES YES YES! I would encourage everyone to do something like this, whether it be a program like this a or some sort of work study through their school.

If you're going with a program like this, though, be prepared for lots of paper work. Don't get me wrong, they make it as easy as possible, but there is still paper work.

Today I filled out my project preference form, my liability release form, and part of my flight options form (I still need to mail it in as well as write a check for my deposit).

About a week ago I went to the local post office and applied for a passport, which had paper work as well.

You would think all this paper work would kill me. But really, I like it because each form is like taking one step toward my goal. It is like a small high every time I finish one.

So here is how the flight goes: they have a group flight leaving from Miami, FL on July 23 and a group flight coming back on the August 19. I have to book my own flights to Miami and back. Plan is to shop around for the best prices and also to try to give myself as much time in between as possible in case things go wrong. They have two flights and I don't know which one I'll be on just yet and each leaves at slightly different times. So I'll have to hold off on buying my tickets.

My next step for right now is to get my insurance all figured out. They require travel and overseas insurance, which is no big deal and should be fairly easy to deal with, but because of some other situations it makes it a bit more tricky for me. But that is a long story for another day, another post.

-Elaine

Donations for my trip

2010-01-13T21:48:00.000-08:00

I love ehow.com.

I'm not the best at all this money transferring business over the internet. But ehow helped me through the simple process of receiving donations over the internet through PayPal. So now, as you can see, I have a "Donate" button above my picture. Feel free to help me out! Even 5 dollars will go a long way!

Also I wanted to let everyone know that I will be participating in a community development project in the Dominican Republic. I will not know my exact project for quite a while.

Anyways, to all who donate, thank you SO MUCH in advance.

-Elaine

Dominican Republic!

2010-01-09T22:32:00.000-08:00

I've been assigned to the Dominican Republic! I leave on July 23, 2010.

This will be my life for about a month:

http://www.isvonline.com/dominicanrepublic.html

This program includes a two week volunteer project and a two week adventure tour. I think I pretty much almost cried over getting to go snorkeling.

I will get more details about the volunteer project later.

As I go through the process of getting all my paper work done and trying to raise some funds, I'll make updates!

P.S.- I guess I should also add that they had no problem with my arthritis. Haha!

ISV Feedback

2010-01-06T22:32:00.000-08:00

I received an email from ISV today saying they received my deposit. Then I received another email from them. They needed to know more about my medical condition.
For those of you who don't know, I have Arthritis. I've had it since I was eight and well, lets just say I'm expecting to get knee replacements about 20 years early. Over this past year I went through some acceptance issues with my buddy Arthur (that is what my friend who also has arthritis calls it). I went through months of trying to not take my medication and deal with it through natural means. Very, very long story short: EF . . . otherwise known as an Epic Fail.
I've now given in to modern medicine--I think I value my ability to hike more than the potential side effects of some of the medicine I take.
Coming back to the main point . . . the medical form I had to fill out was pretty specific. I understand that a program like this has to keep you safe and healthy and doesn't want to be held responsible for anything that happens, but I have my condition under control.

I guess the point is: I really hope they don't feel that my friend Arthur is a good enough reason to not let me go. I really don't think that will be the case, but I can't help but wonder.

International Student Volunteers

2009-12-28T23:59:00.000-08:00

What seems to be such a long time ago, even though in reality it was only a few years ago, I embarked on a journey where I would meet some of the most amazing people of my generation. They were lovely people who I, to this day, still admire for all their talents and all their strength. We met in D.C. and found ourselves an adventure filled with sites to see, important people to meet, scholarships to be had, and delicious food to be eaten. Yes, my fellow Free Spirits, I speak of you. And please, don't take anything you may hence forth read in an offensive way.
The reality was that I was not them, and they were not me. While many bonded and made packs of life time friendship, I only managed to bond with a few of the talented individuals that seemed to be in the same outsider boat as me. And that was just alright with me. Because I still learned a lot. I learned what I was not and what some people are. I learned that even if you don't click with people, it doesn't mean that they aren't amazing and that sometimes it is alright to realize that you were wrong about yourself.
Though, I'll admit right now that it took a good year to realize what I learned about myself, another half of a year to accept it and then a couple of additional months to do something about it.
And here I am, back to where I started: this blog. I thought it was time that I wrote again and now I know that I'll only write for the sake of it because writing is only meaningful if it can take on it's own life without the image of the writer glaring in the background.

So here we go . . .

I intend to . . .no, I will travel over seas and volunteer through the program International Student Volunteers.
Why? Because I was told to by myself and myself refuses to explain itself. But, again, that is just alright with me.

I've made my initial deposit. There is no going back now.

Don't think-- just do,
Elaine

ISU

2009-08-23T17:22:00.000-07:00

Back at ISU. Two interviews for part time jobs and a meeting tomorrow. Tomorrow will be a never ending day.

And it is my birthday. Maybe it will bring me good luck.

PostSecret: I'm a freak, and it is scientifically proven.

2009-08-08T18:48:00.000-07:00

Oh, Post Secret how I love you. On top of this secret hitting home, a comment below it made me laugh even harder...
-----Email Message-----
Feel special, it happens to 2.3% of the population. For 0.6% of the population (including me) it's both. It has something to do with a nerve reflex. Hoorah for random bodily functions.

I'm part of the .6%. I always knew I was a freak and now part of it is scientifically proven.

I'm on a Mission

2009-08-01T23:58:00.000-07:00

I'm on a mission to find the "soundtrack of my life." Fun little assignment for the First Year Seminar class that I am peer instructing next year.

First I will make a list of candidates. Good excuse to listen to music all night.

Color?

2009-06-17T23:06:00.001-07:00

I think so.

Yay.

Summer Update

2009-06-12T13:46:00.000-07:00

Summer started slow. But no worries, it is going pretty fast now.
In fact, this is my first day off in two weeks. I slept in way to long this morning.

TravelHost Magazine, Southwest Idaho met its deadline yesterday and I can't remember ever being so thrilled. It was a lot of hard work to get this first issue out. But we made it. Soon we will get the proofs back and that will be a whole new battle.

My other job, working for Clear Water Research, is bring me a good paycheck. What more can a college kid ask for? I'll have to tell you of my adventures at Clear Water sometime. Some of the one liners you get from people who don't believe that you aren't selling anything are priceless.

Cheers, mates.

TravelHost

2009-05-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

About a week ago I started an internship for TravelHost Southwest Idaho. Because TravelHost makes its money off of ads and advertorials it isn't the sharp edged journalism job that I hope to have one day. However, I am learning a ton of stuff about advertising and PR work. Even though those aren't my goals it life, I feel that every experience helps widen my eyes and will help me later in life.
So, I'm pretty happy about it! Our very first issue(the person I'm working for just bought the rights to publish in Southwest Idaho) is coming out July 19! First deadline is June 12. The magazine is having a rough start, but that is why I was hired--to smooth those edges out. I'll let you know how it goes.

Best Of PostSecret: Obama vs. Bush

2009-05-17T18:12:00.000-07:00

Oh, the joy of the Post Secret community . . .
An email from a viewer read:
-----Email Message-----
I got laid off on Tuesday. I still blamed Bush.

And I respond . . . . I still blame him for lots of stuff, too. His doings will last a looooong time.

Um?

2009-05-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

Worst couple of weeks ever.

My arthritis flared.

Half my power went out--someone explain out that happens?-- causing my fridge to dethaw . . . all over everything.

I slept through an alarm, which I never do.

Finals, what more do I really need to say.

Major insomnia, I seriously don't know how I'm functioning right now.

Some "tiffs" with "friends."

Haven't got to take my Geology Final yet, I'm scared shitless.

Call from a collection service agency about something I took care of a long time ago--might I add the whole thing was one hell of a misunderstanding. I'm very good and very responsible with money.

And

Grandpa died. RIP. I respected you ability to change your mind.

I am being tested.
Gotta love it.

Seriously, I'm laughing so hard at this post that I'm crying (tears of what, I have no idea, which is the best part).

Cheers!

The Story of Stuff

2009-04-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

When I first typed in storyofstuff.com into my Firefox browser it all seemed a little elementary at first. Heck, with the pencil animations it really is. However, this site about the world’s linear consumption system works. Why? Because it spells it out in a way that even a child could understand, or, should I say, an uninformed adult.

The 20 minute film on the homepage of the site takes the viewer through a series of events: extraction, production, distribution, consumption and disposal. It tells how each works in today’s world and what is wrong with them. It also talks about the lovely relationship we see between the American Government and Big Corporations.

As I said before, it is elementary in a way, but the simplicity really mirrors the simplicity of the situation: this isn’t rocket science and we obviously can’t keep running on a linear system like we are now.
So, what will you do? Or what are you doing?
I hope that in your present career or in your future one you will find a way to contribute to the shutdown of this system and the movement toward a sustainable system.

Here is the YouTube version of the video, but I recommend that you take a look at the original site here.

CLICK HERE to find out what you can do right now.

Best Of PostSecret: And Mother Would Remind Me That the Grass Always Looked Greener on the Other Side.

2009-03-31T10:54:00.000-07:00

What a beautifully horrible thing to be able to recognize. Yet, a response to the below secret is what struck me even harder this week.

Below this secret an email message to Frank, founder of Post Secret, was posted: "Lets exchange flaws."
It was later removed for unknown reasons.

But the brief exchange between these two anonymous figures made me recognize a very amazing gift that my parents gave me, but I have forgotten in recent months. You always want what another person has, yet if you were that person you would want exactly what you have. My parents gave me the ability to recognize that--and for the life of me I'm going to cling to it.

I never used to wish that things were different, but lately all I can do is wish. No more of that nascence. I'm grateful for every experience I've had: the good, the bad, and everything in between.

Once again, Post Secret has reminded me of something I desperately needed to remember. And that is why everyone should log on once in a while.

I think Post Secrete keeps me sane--keeps me human.

Visit Post Secret Here.

Best Of PostSecret: People on a Bus

2009-03-15T18:23:00.001-07:00

This week on PostSecret’s Sunday Secrets:

Within 24 hours of the secret being put up Frank, founder of PostSecret, put up these two emails he received about the secret:
_______________________________________
Sent: Sunday, March 15, 2009 3:55 AM
Subject: Bus seat

I make a conscious effort to sit and stand next to the "creepiest" people in hopes that they will not feel like they are avoided. I hope acknowledging them as people with no differences brings a little dignity.

-----Email Message-----
Sent: Sunday, March 15, 2009 7:42 PM
Subject: Re: Bus Seat

I've noticed for months now that people hardly sit next to me and when the bus fills up, I'm often the last person anyone will sit next to. Even though I don't understand why, it has had a significant effect on my self-esteem (to the point where I've brought it up in therapy).

Sitting next to me is probably one of the kindest things a stranger could do.
_______________________________________
I found the first response such a relief—it was good to know that not everyone in the world is so cruel.
I found the second response sad. I really hope that the person knows that not everyone on the planet is so mean.
Now, about buses. I find each bus ride I take so . . . educational. Is there a better place to observe the reactions of people? Like shown above, some people make it a horrible experience for others, but overall, for an innocent observer like me, it is a gold mine of human quirks.
Because of my fascination, I often get caught staring. I hope people know that I’m not staring at them because I think they are weird. More so that I find them fascinating . . . which, in my world, is a good thing.
Also, this secret reminded me of a short story I started a while ago and never finished. The story is about a person riding a bus that looks at each of the other passengers and makes all sorts of stereotypical observations about them. The story follows the person’s thoughts, which are much exaggerated in order to display how unruly such stereotypical reactions to people are.
Problem is I have no idea how to end it. I really should get on that.

MyCurrentYouTubeCraze: New Segment/First Segment Post

2009-03-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

New Segment.

Entitled:

I'm often obsessed with some YouTube video about once a week or so. I think it keeps me sane. I know that a lot of them people will have already seen, but just in case you haven't I thought that I would share. Sometime I will write about the video and sometimes I will simple post it for your enjoyment!

PLUS: If one of my viewers has one that he or she thinks I should write about, tell me! Videos can be anything from random people to a clip from a movie that is super amazing!

So, I now present my current obsession: the amazing beat boxing flute player.

The video above is one of Greg Pattillo first videos and is his most viewed. It defiantly is something fun to listen to. Pattillo is now part of a Brooklyn based group named PROJECT. Their latest CD and more about the group can be found here.

So there is Mercy

2009-03-07T13:46:00.001-08:00

I didn't feel like rewriting this in my own words. I don't know if there is anything really left to say except: Thank the heavens, there is Mercy.

Check it out. Submit something if you can.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29556042/?GT1=43001

The Trouble With Writing

2009-03-03T18:31:00.000-08:00

In this world in which the vast transfer of knowledge drowns the young people attempting to obtain a degree, a whole new probable has emerged.
We, as young, thriving minds, have been taught that we cannot possibly think of anything new. We must site everything that we use. Even if we do think of a new way to think of something, we must support it with other peoples work.
I’m not saying that this is completely a bad thing. Learning not to plagiarize and learning to use others knowledge to support your own opinion is a glorious tool. However, were does it end?
I noticed today that every time I think of doing or writing something innovative and exciting that I just thought of I immediately think, “Well, what if I don’t really know what I’m talking about and someone who does calls me out and ruins my career forever by pointing it out.”
For example, today I was in an observant mood and noticed a common trait among my fellow classmates in a class and was momentarily convinced that this common trait was a result of such and such. Then I immediately thought: well I bet if I looked it up some psychologist has already proved or disproved it. I was then completely unmotivated to write the little tid-bit I was so inspired to write about just a few seconds earlier.
I know that I could easily ignore these thoughts and write it anyways. But just the thought, one I can’t avoid at least having for a moment, is so discouraging.
Is there nothing left in the world to write about that someone else won’t respond to in such a way: “Oh, that sounds exactly like an essay I read by (insert famous/ not-so-famous writer here).”
I know that I am in fact wrong. There is always something to write about. Like this, writing about nothing to write about. But I’m sure it has all been done is some way or form. But the main point: we have been taught that we can’t think originally.
Depressing. I’ll have to get over this eventually.
PS: AFTER I wrote this I remembered a poem I read by Billy Collins, The Trouble With Poetry. Read it and tell me if you don’t find that Ironic.

_____________________________________________________________________________________
The Trouble with Poetry

The trouble with poetry, I realized
as I walked along a beach on night—
cold Florida sand under my bar feet,
a show of stars in the sky—

the trouble with poetry is
that it encourages the writing of more poetry,
more guppies crowding the fish tank,
more baby rabbits
hopping out of their mothers into the dewy grass.

And how will it ever end?
unless the day finally arrives
when we have compared everything in the world
to everything else in the world.

and there is nothing left to do
but quietly close our notebooks
and sit with our hands folded on our desks.

Poetry fills me with joy
and I rise like a feather in the wind.
Poetry fills me with sorrow
and I sink like a chain flung from a bridge.

But mostly poetry fills me
with the urge to write poetry,
to sit in the dark and wait for a little flame
to appear at the tip of my pencil.

And along with that, the longing to steal,
to break into the poems of others
with a flashlight and a ski mask.

And what an unmerry band of thieves we are,
cut-purses, common shoplifters,
I thought to myself
as a cold wave swirled around my ankles
and the lighthouse moved its megaphone over the sea,
from Lawrence Ferlinghetti—
to be perfectly honest for a moment—

the bicycling poet of San Francisco—
whose little amusement park of a book
I used to carry in a side pocket of my uniform
up and down the treacherous halls of high school.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Beep.

2009-02-23T10:44:00.001-08:00

If you are getting this message Elaine is currently out of her mind. Please leave a message at the tone.

Beep!

Cowboy novel portrays the realities of the Wild West

2009-02-11T13:44:00.000-08:00

TV shows like Bananza and Wyatte Earp paint the heroic picture and extraordinary life of the old Wild West cowboy. The dime store novels, written by people in the East, attracted young boys to this life of adventure and glory by glamorizing the Wild West.
Compadres: A Cowboy Story by Paul Pumpain, however, shows the true Wild West for everything it was: paid for sex, unexpected hunger, and near death experiences.
Will and Jeff met as youngsters by the power of fate. From the day they met they vowed to be compadres, and compadres they were as they grew into two adventurous men.
Will has charm that attracts ladies like sugar attracts ants. Throughout their adventure, he always seems to have a lady by his side and if he doesn’t he is complaining about it.
Jeff, however, is a money handler. He can’t say no to a chance at money and is the best poker player there is.
It is both these men’s desires that get them into their various adventures. From fleeing to the Mexican border to make some money and have some women to joining a rebellious army (only for the pay, of course), these two cowboys land themselves in trouble often.
This book does contain some graphic sex scenes that may be offence to some. However, the graphic potions of the book are easily skipped and not to abundant.
The historical content in the book proves to be accurate and will keep history buffs turning the pages.
Even though the book portrays the harsh reality of the cowboy life, it is still an enjoyable book. The characters will have the reader laughing as well as cringing at their spontaneous decisions.

Wind Blows: I think we all know this.

2009-01-29T11:35:00.000-08:00

This is random, but slightly humorous. Beware.

Today in geology, a class that I already know is going to cause me much brain depletion, a line from Subterranean Homesick Blues by Bob Dylan popped into my head and the ceiling split open and light shined through and it all dawned on me.
“ Don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows.”
See I go outside and I assess that the wind is blowing and that I need a coat. The End. I do not think of where it came from and what caused it. Why would I do that?
I’m usually not one to say that I don’t want to be in a class and that everything about it is useless. In fact, I won’t say that now. What I will say though is that if you aren’t planning on going into a geology field, this is one of those subjects that you WILL forget the minute you’re done with the final. That’s all I’m saying . . .
Anyways, back to the song. The line above is one of many lines in the song that might leave you thinking, “That may be true, but what is the point of this song.”
Well that doesn’t matter right now, because what matters is that Bob has once again made me feel better about something I’m frustrated with. I think that Subterranean Homesick Blues will pop up in the future again. Some random line. Some random situation. It is the beauty of it.

Published

2009-01-28T12:29:00.000-08:00

My last editorial, "He is but one man, not superman," was published in The Bengal (ISU's student paper) today. Not a huge deal, but it was my first editorial in the paper.

I've decided to try and write once a week on Fridays. I'm writing it down and telling you all so I keep to it.

Oh and "Charlie" has been put on hold because I've been asked to write a review of another book for The Bengal and I need to hurry up and read that.

Have a great day!

He Is But One Man, Not Superman

2009-01-20T14:47:00.000-08:00

One man cannot change the world, but he can inspire many to change it.
I wish people would keep this in mind as we find ourselves with a new president, Barak H. Obama. I will be the first to admit that I’m excited that Obama has finally been sworn in, but I can’t help but feel a sense of fear as I viewed people wearing a shirt that has an image of Obama as superman at the inauguration held on Jan 20.
I’m sure Alex Ross, designer of this T-shirt, was just trying to support his candidate of choice. However, I think him and his t-shirt have become a poster-child for the misconceptions we have about this president.
He is no superman; he is a man. We have to realize that all his goals will take time. The famous lead singer of U2, Bono, who is a the cofounder of ONE, a movement to help fight poverty and disease in Africa, said that he is thrilled that Obama has stated a concern for other countries, but realized that it will take time because we must lick our own wounds first. More about one can be found at www.one.org.
Obama also addressed this fact in his inaugural speech today stating, “Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time, but know this America, they will be met.”
My biggest fear is that too many people will expect him to snap a few fingers and problems will disappear faster than a rabbit disappears down a hole when being chased. With this sort of expectation it seems inevitable that people will become impatient and once again abandon their hope for and pride in America. Without our hope and without our pride, we will never escape the hole we are currently in.
Obama has called every citizen to the front line. When I say this I mean that he needs us to participate. He needs us to take responsibility. He needs us to sacrifice. He is one man and his job is to lead us. He is obviously capable of being a good leader, but a leader is nothing if he has no followers.
Don’t sit back, watch and wait, because then, nothing will change.

Charlie Part One Pg 1-39

2009-01-14T13:42:00.000-08:00

Sorry it took so long for me to get this up. I really couldn’t decide how I wanted to write this.
When I read The Perks of Being a Wallflower I think the reason why I love it so much is because of the amazing insight or quotable sentences in the book. So, I’ve decided to post some amazing quotes for this first segment. Feel free to comment on them. At the end of this four part series, I will post a actual review of the book.
“And I want you to know that I am both happy and sad and I’m still trying to figure out how that could be.”
-Charlie, pg 2
“Sometimes, my dad calls her [Charlie’s mother] beautiful, but she cannot hear him.”
-Charlie, pg 16
“And I wonder if anyone is really happy. I hope they are. I really hope they are.”
-Charlie, pg 24
“Charlie, we accept the love we think we deserve.”
-Bill (Charlie’s teacher), pg 24
“Then, I turned around and walked to my room and closed my door and put my head under my pillow and let the quite put thing where they are supposed to be.”
-Charlie, pg 26
“He’s a wall flower” . . . “You see thing. You keep quiet about them. And you understand.”
-Patrick (Charlie’s friend) about Charlie then to Charlie, pg 37
“And in that moment, I swear we were infinite.”
-Charlie, pg 39

I Got Curves and Confidence—I Hope That Isn’t A Problem

2009-01-09T15:31:00.000-08:00

To the right is a freshly pierced naval—a body modification that I think is beautiful, but others may feel is a distortion of the body. But that is not my point today. And yes, the picture is of my own stomach.
Looking at the average girl who has decided to get her naval pierced, one will most likely see a skinny girl whose body matches the media’s current image of “beauty.” Why is this? The simple answer is that girls who are “larger” or have curves, like myself, often do not feel comfortable with showing this level of confidence. I connect a naval piercing with confidence because, to me, it shows that one is proud of their body, or at least comfortable with it.
I, like many teen girls, went through most of high school thinking that my curves were ugly. Now, as a young adult I know how stupid I was to think that, but at that time, bombarded with the media’s image of beauty, I think it was almost natural to think that way. I’m just lucky enough to be able to look past the media’s image now and know that I’m beautiful just the way I am.
I will admit that I’ve lost some weight in the past six months. However my weight lost was only a result of living a healthier life style that makes me feel more energized. But being healthy doesn’t mean that one has to be stick thin. I still have some of my love handles and a big butt that my friends like to poke fun at. But I laugh right with them because I like my curves and I know they are just messing with me.
Women really need to start feeling better about the way they look. With the anorexia rates on the rise, according to the department of health, I can’t help but think that women are spending way too much time looking in the mirror instead of going out and doing something significant with their lives.
I’m not saying that every woman should go out and get her naval pierced to show her confidence, but there is nothing wrong with walking around with her head held high and her mind buzzing away with innovative ideas about the future instead of worrying about what the guy behind her thinks about her butt.

Twitter

2009-01-05T21:08:00.000-08:00

Ok, I made an account. Still figuring everything out.

But add me!

http://twitter.com/lanie_

Charlie- Intro.

2009-01-04T22:50:00.000-08:00

I think I'm going to start a series. I don't promise anything because I'm horrible at this sort of thing.
Anyways, here is the idea. I read the book The Perks of Being a Wallflower a bit back and now I'm re-reading it. I think that it is an amazing book and that sharing it with people would be great! So as I read, I think writing about it here would be amazing. It would defiantly be something insightful to write about!
What do my readers think?
I encourage you to go out and buy the book right now and read it with me!
Here is a link to buy it!
http://www.amazon.com/Perks-Being-Wallflower-Stephen-Chbosky/dp/0671027344/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1231139000&sr=8-1

So, I'll hopefully get started on this soon. I kinda feel that the more feedback I get the more intriguing insight I'll be able to pump out.

Goodness, it is midnight and I have to be up early. Night!

A Request To My Free Spirits

2009-01-04T18:09:00.000-08:00

I think it would be lovely if everyone who I have started "following" in blogger would in turn hit the 'follow this blog' button on the right side of this post! People on wordpress are obviously exempt, but I just think that everyone should go through their "followers" and in turn follow them! Wouldn't that be nice! Loves!

My newest addition!

2009-01-02T21:39:00.000-08:00

I created a new blog, which can be located under the links I provide on the side of this page(Elaine's Creations).
It will hold all my creative work.
I was thinking about posting some of my creative work here, but I felt it wasn't the place--this is a forum for my articles. I didn't want it to get messy with my random creations. Hence, I whole new blog used as a outlet for my creations.
I REALLY hope that all of you will check it out once in a while and give me feedback. I will mention in this blog when some new work is up as well.
Best of luck to all my readers!

The New Year Is Here! Everybody Cheer!

2009-01-01T16:10:00.000-08:00

Ah, New Years. My proclaimed favorite holiday of the year! I love new thoughts. I love new people. I love new ideas. I love new leadership. I love new starts!
Everything seems fresh! Fresh as the New Year’s baby’s butt—well at least until he processes all that apple cider and apple sauce.
But really, how new is New Years? My diagnosis: it’s only as fresh as you make it. As for myself, I really have done a horribly reached job of making the most of this particular New Year. I’ve dwelled and I’ve fretted over unsettle matters of the past.
As I’m storming around the house: angry, angry, angry!, I realize that I simply needed to sit down and write it out. I wrote a poem, now I’m writing a blog.
To tell you the truth, I hate entries like this—comply centered around one irrational, emotion-filled moment. However, sometimes it just seems necessary. I hope I didn’t waste to much of your time.
Thought:
A Happy New Years is only as happy as you make it.

The different types of people in your life

2008-12-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

I heard this little diagnosis somewhere, though I can’t seem to remember where. Anyways, that isn’t important, what is important is how everyday it seems to become more true.
There are three types of people in your life:
1: The type that stays forever or is consonantly a part of your life from the time you meet them (family, spouses, the occasional friend).
2: The type that stays for a while and eventually disappears, though they may make guest appearances later in life (Teachers, friends).
3: The type that only appears briefly and you most likely will never see again (acquaintance).
I guess the interesting part isn’t really that the diagnosis is true, but instead the impact that each type of person can have on your life. It gets really interesting and even heartbreaking once thoroughly analyzed.
I’ve taken particular interest in the second type of person. This may be due to the fact that I’m finding myself in the position constantly. I love meeting new people and helping them overcome whatever challenges they happen to face at the time. Yet, it seems that after a while they no longer need me or they move on (or simply away). It’s not that they are trying to be mean and disregard me, but more that it was simply time.
I hold no grudge against these people. I just find it immensely interesting that I constantly get myself into these situations, no matter the precautions I take.
When thinking of the people in my life that hold this position, I find myself baffled. Even though they only stay for a while, they often have the greatest impacts on me. Logically you would think that a person that holds the first position would have the greatest impact, but, not to downgrade their influence, they don’t. At least in my life, that is.
An interesting conclusion, and even a comforting one because I can only hope that I have in turn influenced the people that never held a fulltime role in my life.
It gives one something to think about, even if it is a little over zealous on the analyzing.

Random thought:
Over analysis lies in the brain, but its conclusions often come from the heart.

The day I screamed, “Give me a sign!”

2008-12-04T09:27:00.000-08:00

Yeah, it is absolutely and overwhelmingly corny. I really shouldn’t call it corny—that’s like slapping my creator in the face. About a month ago I lie in bed, distressed over my future and what will become of it. Sure, I would like to be a part of changing the world. I think a lot of people would like to be, but which rout do I take to have the biggest impact. Will someone please throw me a bone? I don’t have the money to change the world, and because of my passion for journalism I might never have it. So I’ve chosen to use a talent I have in order to do my part: writing. But still the question remains: which way do I go, how long do I wait until something truly significant happens.
Well that is just it; you can’t wait for something to literally fall in your lap. You do have to work for it. Still, I felt as though I wasn’t being given any slack . . . at all. So I asked for some. In fact, I was kind of cross about it, which I later felt bad about. I said, literally out loud, “You give me a sign, you give me a sign tomorrow or I might just give up.”
Yes, I was at that much of a low. I’m not sure if I would have actually given up, but in that moment . . .
Anyways, the next day, still feeling down, I almost skipped class. Something pushed me to get my lazy self out of bed. Good thing, because as I arrived to the First Year Seminar Class, there it was, my “sign,” ready to give a short spiel about volunteer opportunities in other countries. Sure, it doesn’t have to do with journalism, but it would get me out there and get me other country experience.
But, being objective, my first thought was, “How much do I have to pay?” Surprisingly, if you do the leg work to get funded by companies (donations are tax deductible), the answer was nothing.
So I applied for the program, International Student Volunteers, and was accepted this week. I don’t know what country I’ll be volunteering in yet. Nonetheless, I got my sign, or at least that’s what I’m taking it as; perhaps because that is all I’ve got. But I’m happy with it and can’t wait to go abroad and help others.

Random Thought:
One receives true happiness from the smile of another being.

Rough Start

2008-12-03T11:58:00.000-08:00

First off, I'd like to address my last blog, which wasn't really even a blog at all. I needed a place to post my resume so I could link to it, and all the actual websites for it seem either fishy or you had to make an account. Way to lazy to do that. So . . . I figured that posting it here then linking to it directly through the archives wouldn't hurt.

Anyways, I've had a rough couple of weeks. Getting this thing going has proven harder than I thought. It isn't that I have a shortage of ideas, but more that I'm a perfectionist. So when I decide I want to write something I insist on it being perfect, not just another little entry. Perfection, which I never actually achieve because perfection is impossible, takes time! Time that, due to my rough couple of weeks, has been unavailable. However, I should be back on my feet soon, especially with Christmas break around the corner!

Excuses, excues, Elaine--you make me sick!

Anyhow, time for my random thought! Oh and if you didn't notice, I made my last random thought my subhead of the name of my blog. I thought I was pretty spiffy!

One can not force the perfection of themselves, for that would cause many more imperfections than previously held.

Elaine Washam's Resume

2008-12-03T11:25:00.000-08:00

Elaine L. Washam
Permanent Address: 1838 Empire Way, Boise, ID 83709
Current Address: Turner 811, 921 S. 8th Ave. Stop 8626, Pocatello, ID 83209
Phone: 208-440-4996
Email: e.washam@hotmail.com

Objective

To acquire a journalism career allowing foreign travel (investigative reporting).

Summary of Qualifications

Strongly motivated and passionate writer with the desire to help people share their stories on a personal level. Experience in writing for a high school paper (The Borah Senator, ID) and a college paper (The Bangle, Idaho State University, ID). Excellent leadership qualities and will take the lead. Communication and organization skills are toned with years of group projects (in school).

Awards and Recognitions

1. Idaho’s Female Al Neuharth Free Spirit Scholar, 2008. (http://www.freedomforum.org/templates/document.asp?documentID=18021)

2. KTVB7 United Dairymen of Idaho Distinguished Student Award, February 2008. (http://www.ktvb.com/video/dsa-index.html?nvid=220824)

3. Played a significant role in earning the George H. Gallup Award (highest award available) from the Quill and Scroll Society for The Borah Senator, Borah High School’s student newspaper. The paper received 947 points out of 1,000.

List of Other Accomplishments

1. Elks Legacy Scholar, 2008 (http://www.elks.org/ENF/SCHOLARS/legacy.cfm).
a. Volunteering for the Elks in various ways since 1996 to present.

2. River Menders volunteer work, once in 2006 and once in 2007 (http://rivermenders.com/).

3. National Honors Society Membership, 2007-08.

4. Creation of my own blog, One Step, Two Steps (http://elaines-steps.blogspot.com/).

Work Experience

Reporter/ Editor-in-Chief of The Senator, Borah High School’s student newspaper: 2005-2008
Freelance writer for The Bengal, Idaho State University’s student newspaper: 2008-2009

Education

Idaho State University, Currently Enrolled, Anticipated Graduation: May 2013, Pocatello, ID
Borah High School, Graduate, Boise, ID

Lets Get Started

2008-11-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

I’ve wanted to start a blog for a while. It always seemed like a great idea, but for some reason I got the strange notion that it was much harder than it actually was. No, I hadn’t heard of blogger—I know, what shell have I been living in for the past few years?

So my lovely Free Spirits of 2008 informed the terribly misinformed Elaine about how they all—well a good portion of them anyways—had put up their own blogs and were just typing away. You know, making the world just that much brighter (seriously, these young journalists are amazing people)! I should have a link to our website that gives the links to all of our blogs up soon. Remember, I’m still feeling this whole thing out. Hell, I don’t know exactly what I’m going to write about. I’m thinking it will be a random splurge of topics as they find their way into the vast jungle that is my mind.

But for now, this is a simple introduction as I scramble to get this thing looking spick and span. I’ll put up a Bio and all that fun stuff here soon.
Here is my random thought for today:
Rationalize the mind only to the point that it does not suffocate the hope within, for hope gives one faith in humanity.

Sincerity always,
Elaine