Thought I'd write a blog post since this update is probably too long for an OMM post. I've been occasionally lurking on the boards but for the majority of summer I dedicated my time to an intensive language program in Guatemala. I didn't learn as much as I should have in terms of the language, probably because I was ill the first few weeks and missed more than several class sessions but hey, the program, living expenses, and trip were all paid for by scholarship so it's all good. Spent every weekend with J, we even took a bus down to Honduras and stayed a weekend in Copán enjoying the nature parks and viewing ancient Maya civilization ruins. Touristy but very fun to do some traveling. We traveled a bit within Guatemala, too, for my research; he was very understanding and helpful as my companion, getting dragged along for pictures of historical memory murals, etc.

I'm just now finishing up my nine-week trip. Back in Guatemala City after the language program ended and I've been attempting to continue research and visit different archives but I don't have much motivation for the archives since my main research method is ethnographic (interviews, observation, etc.) which I did get to do and now I just want to unwind. Several people even invited me back for more interviews at a later trip, so the summer was a success!

I think I'll be back in Guatemala mid-fall (October?). J and I submitted the fiance visa application in February and considering the VisaJourney timetables, a further notice should be coming relatively soon. We opted to apply this year after consulting with several professionals in his field and professors, all have the advice that his transferring and graduating with a US degree is better for the job search. Hopefully it all works out in a timely manner. We're hoping for him to move to the US in December.

I bought too many books, coffee, and chocolate for my luggage (hopefully I won't have to pay over-weight fees!) but such things are at time a necessity for the mind and soul. I'm looking forward to visiting my family for a few weeks before commencing fall term although I'll have to keep my priorities in-check since I also have to focus on writing my dissertation proposal in these next few weeks. At least this trip provided decent foundational research on which to base my proposal!


Terrace view from hotel in Honduras.

Ruins of a Maya ball court in Honduras.

Post-conflict peace mural in San Juan Comalapa, Chimaltenango, Guatemala.