Saturday, November 27, 2010

My Lady in Waiting







These fabulous paintings are done by Kate Morgan out of Columbus, Ohio. I am looking to purchase a new painting to add to my collection of 'painted ladies'. One day, in my  beautifully decorated house, I hope to have an entire wall of women. Currently I own two original paintings and one print. Kate's painting, which will be a birthday present from my dear old daddy, will be my third original painting. Many more to come!

This time last year...

I was in my favorite city. 




Looking at graduate schools right now and Columbia is the top choice (not a big surprise to those who know me)!

Don't fret, a more thorough post to come this weekend.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Dreaming of Quito, Ecuador


I can't help but thinking of the future over my Thanksgiving break. Although college life is finally at a stand still for a week - I'm in the midst of grant writing for this summer. In June, if my grants come through (fingers- crossed!), I will be traveling to Ecuador to study abroad for a month. The trip will focus on healthcare policy in South America and the lives and health problems of the Andean population. 

I cannot wait for hands-on patient care and finally taking some medical spanish classes but...  I'm equally as excited that I will have lots of time off to take weekend trips and travel around South America (tourist-ing and shopping!).  My very first solo abroad experience. And, not to be the last! 

The above picture is a cathedral, La Iglesia de San Francisco that I hope to visit in person. This 16th century baroque church is currently undergoing a massive restoration and should be completed just in time for my visit!

La Iglesia de San Francisco is among the oldest and largest churches in Ecuador. I recently read that Spanish conquerors built it on the site of an Incan palace in 1535. Just look at all of the ornate gold leaf detailing! It inspires me for some beautiful holiday decorations and adornment of gold accessories . After all,  'Tis the season.