I’ve always had this idea to have a go-pack at the ready. Someone’s probably already thought of this and done it, but this is me coining it for my lifestyle. Essentially, that’s what it is- a lifestyle.

Here’s the concept: have a small carry-on suitcase/backpack filled with the essentials for you to make at least a weekend/two-day trip whenever the hell you want.

Come home from a lousy day of work? Go-pack.

Inclement weather canceled work or school? Go-pack.

Your loved one driving you insane? Go-pack.

Buddies you haven’t seen in awhile call you up for a random trip- and they’ll be there in 10 minutes? Go-pack.

It’s making sense, right? You can also use it for more serious occasions such as company meetings, conferences, presentations, family emergencies, etc. So here’s what you should pack:

• One two-piece suit (navy blue or black can serve multiple functions, use the jacket as a blazer). If you’re a woman, you’re essential black dress.
• One pair of matching socks
• One white or striped button-up shirt
• One pair of business casual shoes
• One reversible belt (brown/black)
• One tie (just in case)
• One undershirt
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Boxers or briefs
• Swimming shorts or swim suit

Change into your favorite jeans and shirt, put on your most comfortable shoes, grab the go-pack and enjoy life.

This summer I have met and spoken with a number of people whom English is their second language. Their desire to speak in the language regardless of their skill level is very inspiring. From students to professors to people of other professions, everyone I’ve come across seems ready and willing to share and hear a story.

The favorite topic seems to be love- life and love. In Nanjing, I received an email about what I missed when I decided to go to bed early. The students had a great time getting together and talking about life in general: school, family, friends, and love. In Shanghai, I went out to dinner with one of my roommates at the hostel on my last night there. She had just gotten back from hanging out with a friend from the city. She had a lot on her mind, most of which was love and marriage. She wants to marry for love and sees no point in rushing things, especially if it doesn’t feel right. A wise decision. In Chiang Mai, the students that were our hosts at the University frequently talked about love. Two of them would wander off, and when we’d find them again, we’d ask, “What are y’all doing?” To which they replied, “‘Just talking about life and love.” Here in Hanoi, it’s the same but is usually attached to conversations of marriage. A fellow teacher and I were having tea after lunch and we got on the topic of women, life, family, and future goals. Then he threw in, “It’s probably time for me to find someone.” My reaction? “I can’t believe you just said that…” But in all honesty, we’ll all know when the time comes. In the meantime, it’s a topic that everyone can relate to. And in VIA, the topic still has legs… and men still have hope.

Throughout the lifetime of a species, movement is necessary to maintain adequate amounts of nourishment including food, water, shelter, and personal needs.

Yet, not all migrations are welcome in the case of people migration. Migrations that bring about competition amongst an already established population are not welcome. Migration to meet the destination’s needs, however, are welcome and often encouraged.

The following article from the New York Times provides a look into the teaching profession and two experiences from Westerners moving and working abroad. It made me realize that brainpower is becoming more and more of a commodity. However, not everyone is suited for this lifestyle.

Rising Breed of Migrant Worker: Skilled, Salaried and Welcome

…and I won’t be there this time =(

It happens every Fall semester at Oklahoma State University and grows in number each year. Last year was my second Salsa Ball but I’d have to say that the first experience was the best. Isn’t it always?

This year will be even better, I’m sure. There are a lot of Salsa Ball veteran staff returning which will mean that a lot of things will go much smoother. The band for this year? I don’t know. They haven’t announced it yet. Last year we had the Louis Shati Orquesta. They were great. The only downside I remember were the long breaks, but that was due to the interviews that were taking place. I hope that they do what was discussed at the end of Salsa Ball 2006, which was to bring in 2 bands. How lucky and spoiled the attendees would be.

…ugggghhh….

must…

find…

dancing…