Tigers & Strawberries

There is a story I want to tell of a woman who finds herself being chased by tigers....

She runs and runs, and the tigers are getting closer and closer. When she comes to the edge of a cliff, she sees some vines there, so she climbs down and holds on to the vines. Looking down, she sees that there are tigers below her as well. She then notices that a mouse is gnawing away at the vine to which she is clinging. She also sees a beautiful little bunch of strawberries close to her, growing out of a clump of grass. She looks up and she looks down. She looks at the mouse. Then she just takes a strawberry, puts it in her mouth, and enjoys it thoroughly. 


How does this story relate to my Fulbright experience in Lisbon? Well-- there may not be literally "tigers above, tigers below"-- but I know that my time in Portugal and Europe is moving quickly, and just as there is always a beginning, there is an expiration date too.  As in this story, I want to take each moment I have here for what it is, and savor it-- appreciating and finding the delight in the preciousness of the moments.

I admit I have been terrible at updating my blog over the past few months, and I didn't want to let more time pass without looking back and sharing some of my experiences and places I've been. On the work front- my classes and workshops have been going very well-- finding my "groove" and getting feedback from the professors and PhD students that my courses are meaningful and helpful. This makes me happy!

Other than that I have spent some time in between classes on weekends traveling relatively cheap in Europe (thank you EasyJet!) In February I visited the beautiful  island of Madeira (a Portuguese island off the coast of Morocco) to do a little hiking and relaxing.

A weekend trip was a trainride up to a northern city of Portugal, Porto- situated on the Douro River with delicious port wines.

 Loved Amsterdam, which I can say is one of the raddest cities I've ever been to thanks to the bike culture and friendly people.

 In March I traveled to Chamonix, France to do some amazing skiing in the French/Swiss Alps!

 Another long weekend in March I spent in Krakow, Poland to pay homage to the concentration camps at Auschwitz-Birkenow. I have always had the desire to do this... a very emotional experience, but I think it is something that everyone should do if provided the opportunity.

Spring break begins next week...more adventures planned! xo!

The day in the life of...

Who dares to teach must never cease to learn.  ~John Cotton Dana

Sunsets in Lisbon, truly one of a kind

This past month has not been filled with exotic places, but rather the life of a gal living and working in Lisbon.


WORK!
My University Fulbright teaching schedule has kept me quite busy-- preparing and giving lessons, workshops, presentations... It is incredible the amount of time it takes to create curriculum from scratch-- especially if it is content I don't specialize in. Researching topics, curriculum, creating lesson plans, informational handouts and worksheets, PowerPoint presentations...I insist on being well-prepared. The highlight are my students! Working with adults is a refreshing change from my younger munchkins in the U.S. 

I am teaching a weekly class to the International Relations Staff and other staff members on English reading, writing, and speaking skills. Last week I did a lesson on the American tradition of Thanksgiving--  a little surprised they knew nothing about except for the "gobble gobble turkey". We looked at literature from two perspectives- the traditional story we are told as we grow up about the 'pilgrims and Indians working and feasting together', to the perspective of the Native Americans, who often consider it a "National Day of Mourning."


Also included in my teaching load are weekly workshops for the Professors on their "Technical Writing" skills-- to be used for articles they write about their research to be published in English. Each module focuses on a different aspect of the research article: Abstract, Introduction, Methodology, Results, and Discussion/Conclusion. I am using a book to help guide my teaching called, "Science Research Writing for Non-Native Speakers of English" which has been helpful. The aim of this course is to provide them with the information, vocabulary and phrases, concrete examples, structure, and hands-on writing to improve their skills. 

International Education Day

On International Education Day this month, another Fulbrighter and I gave a presentation open to all students at Universities in Lisbon applying to grad school in the U.S who were interested in honing in their English writing, specifically their application essays. We had a good time! 


 LEARN!

Learning Portuguese has been coming slooowwwllyyy. I am a bit disappointed because of the lack of oral practice and progress I am making. It seems that most young people in Lisbon speak English, so the minute they can tell you aren't a native speaker they begin to speak to you in English. And since most people want to practice their English, they want to speak to you in it instead of Portuguese. I am taking an Erasmus Portuguese course at the University, so I feel my comprehension, writing and vocabulary is improving at least. Hopefully the oral skills will begin feeling more comfortable soon!

RUN!

Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge

After work I have found to keep my sanity and feel the endorphins I have been exercising my normal running gig. The river Tejo has a nice bike path I run down to sometimes which goes beneath the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge-- eerily looking like the Golden Gate. I also have found a "forest" in the middle of Lisbon, a patch of protected land called "Monsanto" where I can get my fill of trail running... It doesn't feel like I'm in the middle of a big urban city while rocking the trails there. I'll be joining in the race spirit here in Lisbon this weekend to compete in the Maratona de Lisboa!

Casa Vinyasa, my studio in Lisbon

Yogi! 

I have also found a rad "ashtanga" yoga studio I love for my recovery days! It is a MySore style studio which are very rare to find. The closest studio similar is in San Francisco back at home. There are some differences in this method from the modern way in which yoga is usually taught: 

1.the class is not "led" as a whole but rather all instruction is one-on-one within the group  

2.students practice their own portion of the Ashtanga sequence of asanas at their own instruction

3.the teacher assists each student individually by giving physical adjustments & verbal instruction

I am enjoying this style because it really forces you to be present and active in the process, not just "following" the commands of an instructor-- thus the practice really becomes your own.

___

More to come soon.

Much love. Beijinhos! xoxo

Fado & Saudades

‎"Live your life from your heart. Share from your heart. And your story will touch and heal people's souls."                                                                                                                   

Fado is a traditional or typical Portuguese music genre characterized by intense, passionate, mournful lyrics. The word "fado" originates from the Latin word fatum which the English word "fate" comes from. It is often associated with the word "saudades"--an important Portuguese word that has no immediate translation to English, but basically describes a deep, nostalgic feeling of loss or longing for something that one loves, but is apart from. It is coupled with the knowledg that the object of longing might never return or that the love will never come to full fruition. 


My first Fado music experience was here is Lisbon at a place called "Retiro de Baca" where we drank vinho tinto (red wine), while eating many varieties of delicious queijos (cheese) with bread, olives, and chorizo. There were two fadistas (fado singers) accompanied by two guitar players- one playing a portuguese guitar which is smaller with 12 strings and the other a classical guitar. I was swept away with the beautiful Portuguese lyrics while the audience became completely silent and intent on focusing on the singer. During many of the songs that were familiar to the locals, the entire restaurant would join in and begin to sing along! I was lucky to have a Portuguese pal with me-- as I could understand parts of the songs, but my friend was able to translate the full spectrum and depth of the meaning. At the end of the evening I was feeling a mixture of emotions that the music stirred within...


Amelia Rodriguez is probably the most famous Portuguese fadista to popularize this genre, but today one of the best fado singers is Mariza. Here is a song "Barco Negro" (black ship) performed by her to have a taste:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ElLSBx9Jo8

Tourada: Uma Tradição Português

Tourada: a bullfight


Yesterday evening was the last bullfight of the season in Lisbon until next spring. Although hesitant, since a few friends were attending, thought I'd try and experience this Portuguese tradition with them.

When we arrived, outside the beautiful arena Campo Pequeno were boisterous protesters speaking out against the fights. It was tempting to join because of the inhumane nature of this sport. 
                                       In Spain they kill the bulls, but in Portugal they instead stab it with spikes and run them around until good and worn out. Ugh. Then a group of 7 or 8 men lure him towards and grab him by the horns and tail as a "conquest," I suppose.  After 20 minutes, my stomach queasy, I had to get up and leave early. I just couldn't handle the blood, and was mortified to see the bulls confused, upset, breathing heavy. Just couldn't do it.  

      
     The only time I would be back to Campo Pequeno will be to join the protests. Oh well-- I gave the Portuguese tradition a try, but realized it's not something I can enjoy even in the slightest.

Stones in the Road

“Stones in the road? I save every single one, one day I'll build a castle” - Fernando Pessoa

My new life began in Lisboa with one word:

Overwhelming.

To be expected? Certainly. Every time I have tried to sit down to blog something I've been unable to write. The first week and a half  proved to be more difficult due to the fact the apartment I was to live in was not vacated yet-- so I stayed in a room of the landlord's home unable to unpack my bags. I expected the adjustments to be hard at times, and there have been a number of these days... tears, confusion, homesickness, but I'm beginning to feel better and lighter!

We had our Fulbright Orientation last week and a marvelous time getting to know the other Fulbrighters in Portugal, learning about their interesting lives and different researching or teaching assignments  here!

Each day has been busy meeting people, exploring sights in Lisbon, along with being at the University almost daily. This town is quite amazing and I am fascinated with it's rich history and culture. Not to mention the foods are a wealth of deliciousness! Lots of different fish, breads, soups, cheese, sweet treats... I am becoming enamored with the slower pace of living and abundant cafe culture which is bar none to Italy in my opinion. 

Navigating public transportation, the metro, buses, trams is all new business for me in a place I have little familiarity with yet. The language, whoa. I thought I had a decent grasp of the Portuguese basics, but I'm finding it quite frustrating to try to communicate. Where do I go to swim? Yoga?  Groceries? It seems each new day brings growth and challenges hand in hand. 


I finally moved into a rad apartment on the top floor of an old palace one week ago--it's funky and cool, with big windows that open up to see the area of Alfama and the water. But there is no stove, no washer or dryer, and it's about an hour commute via public transport one way to the University. There are no conveniences such as groceries or pharmacies or shopping in close proximity so it's not so practical.... uncertain I will be able to stay here long. But alas, it is beautiful. Here is a view from my window:

A link to photos of some of the things I have been doing thus far!  

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/set=a.10150308169669608.357661.738059607&type=3f

Some highlights include: seeing my first European futbol match (Lisbon's Sporting team against an Italian team), amazing museums, fado music, experiencing Portuguese food culture and night life, making a visit to the the US Embassy in Lisbon, being invited to Parliament for the dedication of the Federalist Papers translated into Portuguese...

Abraços e beijos! (hugs & kisses)

Kristy

Bon Voyage!

"Growth means change and change involves risk, stepping from the known to the unknown."

Tomorrow morning I make the 16 hour flight from San Francisco to Lisboa! All packed up and ready as I'll ever be- with utter thanks for my amazing family and friends who have  my last two weeks incredibly special. I feel so blessed. My long term visa came through just yesterday, so we had to trek to the Portuguese Consulate in SF to have my passport stamped before finishing up moving out and deciding on a few last things to pack. 

Views from the Alfama district

Upon my arrival in Lisboa on Thursday (my birthday!) I will be visiting three apartments, and then get to make the choice as to which one will be my new home. Here is a link to one of them, it's a quaint studio in the Alfama district: 

  http://www.santoestevao-alfama.com/ (Falcão apartment), in the typical quarter of Alfama.

The Alfama is the oldest historical district in Lisbon with windy narrow streets spreading from the Castle of Lisbon to the Tejo River, and known for its many fado (a type of Portuguese traditional music) bars and restaurants. Overlooking the Alfama is the midevil Castle of Sao Jorge, royal residence until the early 16th century and now offering the best views of the city. Can't wait for evening strolls at dusk, bicycle rides through the neighborhood, and conversing (at least trying!) with the locals. 

Packing up Life

"The mind has exactly the same power as the hands; not merely to grasp the world, but to change it."                                                                                             -Colin Wilson     


Two recent articles regarding my upcoming teaching abroad:
California State University, Sacramento website:
http://www.csus.edu/sacstatenews/Articles/2011/08/Kristy_Smith_Fulbright08-30-11.html

San Juan Unified School District: 

 blue beauty

http://www.sanjuan.edu/news.cfm?story=10720

My Volvo sold last week, which was one giant item to check off my list! Sans car, these past two weeks I've officially fallen back in love with my 1960's Schwinn Cruiser. Bopping around on the grid fills me with a sense of freedom-- running errands and getting to my destinations on bike feels more engaging with my surrounding community as opposed to in the car.  Seeing people's faces, smiling and saying hello, all have a feeling of being present, which is nice. Certainly,  obtaining 2 wheels upon arrival in Lisboa will be a priority.


Packing madness is under way! It's of course somewhat overwhelming, but I like having bags and bags of things to donate graciously to Goodwill. 

The Madster

           What is the one thing I wish I could pack with me? My kitty, Maddie. I am going to miss my little buddy like crazy. But I leave with peace of mind she will be in good hands with my parents while I am away. 


FULBRIGHT UPDATES:
More details emerged about my position at the University in regards to the courses I will be teaching to Portuguese professors. Working with each of the 4 schools within the University, I will be focusing on more specifically the writing of Scientific Journal Articles. What exactly does this mean? How I understand it is helping them with their English writing skills for journal articles within their specialty of study, which they hope to get published. I went on-line and bought two books which should better prepare me for the subject matter I will be teaching. 

My "office" has been designated in the School of Business, which will be my homebase. I don't yet know where I will be living in town, but looking forward to getting the word on which neighborhood will soon be my own! 

Unwritten Chapters

"Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end."   -Seneca                                                              

Minha louco familia!

Although I have a new chapter of life around the corner, yesterday we celebrated my father's new chapter-- his retirement!

I have always admired my father, not only because he is an amazing dad, but because of how hard working, kind, supportive, and selfless he is. This came into focus yesterday at his retirement luncheon rounding out 38 years with the State of CA, mostly spent in the Dept. of Education but the past 4 with the Dept. of Veteran's Affairs. It was a full room of people, all attending to wish my father well in the new phase of his life--  jokes abounding (mostly surrounding the Giants vs. Dodgers rivalry). But what really shone through was how many people admired and appreciated his dedication to his work, his "can-do" positive attitude, and witty sense of humor. In his speech, he said his only regret was not joining the Dept. of Veteran's Affairs sooner- as he was able to really see the people he was serving, and that he felt "what more deserving people to serve than those who have served our country."


Needless to say, I am very proud of him. Now he will have more time to walk/run their yellow lab, learn to jam on the lefty guitar I gave him, read the daily paper, golf, and just plain putz around. Cheers to a father who is an inspiration for my life and upcoming journey abroad! 

Portuguese Visa Shenanigins

Preparation for living abroad and life in general has been going smoothly. My Portuguese language skills are improving, and last week the U.S. Fulbright Commission sent out a press release announcing receipt of my award. This week I am giving a few interviews with CSU Sacramento, the Sac Bee newspaper, and my local school district & Union in regards to it, which is exciting!


But today.....I hit the panic button.

My in progress long-term visa to Portugal consists of tons of paperwork which I finished 2 months ago. But I haven't been able to send it in to the Portuguese Consulate because I have been waiting to receive an FBI background check in the mail that must accompany the application. Supposedly it should take 6 weeks, and so at the end of last week I realized after checking my paperwork that it had been 8 weeks, with no FBI check still to my mailbox. I was kicking myself because  in hindsight I realized I should have sent it with confirmation of receipt because I had no idea if it even made it. I only have one month until I leave, and it takes up to 3-4 weeks once I send in all my Visa Paperwork to the Consulate in SF to get it approved. Yikes.


Let's just say I'm running a tight timeline.


I woke up early this morning to call the FBI agency back east, ready to deal with a barricade of filters to talk with an actual person. I was mentally preparing myself for the worst case scenario: they never received my request through US mail, which means I'd be starting over, and they "don't expedite under any circumstances" their website clearly stated-- which could mean another 6-8 weeks.  I already had handy my U.S. congresswomens' contact information in case I needed help from a big hitter.


I finally reached a woman at the FBI agency, and calmly told her my situation. I gave her my address which she told me she'd use to look it up in the computer.


"I'm sorry but there is no record that we received anything from your address. Is there any other address that we would be sending it to?" My heart began beating louder in my chest.


"No," I replied. "I only have one address, my home, that I put on the background check application." I repeated my address to her, and asked her not-as-calmly to check again.


"No, I don't have anything," she lethargically repeated. She was beginning to sound like the teacher from Snoopy in my head.


I said, "Well, is there another way to look up to see if anything was received, like my social security number? How about I give you that?" Panic mode was setting in.


"No, just the address ma'am. I'll check one more time in the system."..... "Oh, wait, actually, here you are. It was send out on the 17th. You should be getting it today or tomorrow."


Hallelujah!!!


Opening up my mailbox today, I exhaled a giant, deep, sighhhh of relief to see the self addressed envelope with the FBI background check enclosed.  I promptly rushed to the post office to mail off the packet for my Visa, made sure to pay extra for confirmation of receipt, which it's now (hopefully safely!) on its way to the Consulate in San Fran...

Peace, Love, and High Tide

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."   -Nelson Mandela 

hippie love

For the past 2 weeks I've taken a hiatus from my Portugal preparation to embrace my interest in social justice to attend an "ahimsa" or peace studies institute at Cal Poly Pomona near Los Angeles. I had no idea what to expect. I found myself  surrounded by forty rad and inspiring teachers from all over the country with the focus of our studies on two important leaders in nonviolent social change: Gandhi and Cesar Chavez.  

Chavez and the NFWA

I am still in awe at the depth of this institute. We laughed together. We cried together. It was exhausting and exhilerating. Each day of the fellowship was jam-packed while soaking up discourse and insight from scholars, activists, professors, readings, and documentaries. I was humbled by how much I don't know and still need to learn, but it felt wonderful to be a student again. The knowledge and awareness I've gained has propelled me to think more critically about issues of social justice including poverty, environmental and food sustainability, violence, and farm-to-school projects -- especially in relation to our role as educators to be an impetus for change. We spent time creating curriculum to weave into classrooms with these concepts... But the best part has been the interesting, progressive teaching peers I've been able to learn from and their unique experiences and lives! I am challenged to continue reflecting on my journey: what is my place in the world, and in what ways can I make a meaningful contribution?


"To expect the unexpected shows a thoroughly modern intellect." - Oscar Wilde

Fact: Life throws curveballs

Gandhi and Chavez were examples of this. During their struggles, often times things went very wrong. Being extremely thoughtful individuals who "expected the unexpected" they were able to adapt and continue making progress towards their vision. For me this means attempting to move fluidly with the inevitable changes life brings. Realizing the  illusion of security or permanence it is not there to be had,  it's time to move out of the safety of the "cocoon" and into the high tide!...never forgetting to give thanks for the people and blessings in my life!  Speaking of changes....

Fulbright Updates:  I originally understood my position (besides presentations on U.S. culture &  building relationships in the community) would be teaching University students various classes of English and English Literature. But I found out that instead, I will be teaching classes to the University Professors. I am excited, but it honestly feels intimidating at the moment!  Also, I expected my accommodations in Lisboa would be some form of University graduate housing (ie dorms), but found out that that instead they've secured an apartament for me in the city centre. I'm thrilled to be in the mix of downtown with the ability to take advantage of  their awesome public transport. Obtaining a bicicleta upon arrival will be priority!  

Praça do Comércio

Até a próxima vez (until next time)....


Muito amor, 

Kristy

New Spaces, New Places

“Courage is the power to let go of the familiar.” – Raymond Lindquist

What is familiar is comfortable. Even though the familiar might be worse than the unfamiliar, we still tend to hold on to it, because going into the unknown is uncomfortable. Having the courage to go into the unfamiliar can be tough, but not impossible. It requires a shift in perspective. Sometimes life requires a leap of faith-- into the unknown. Become curious. Become an explorer of life. This is an adventure.

Letting go can be hard-- even with the world to look forward to...

I am fully aware of attachments to creature comforts and my routine ways of life. Daily Starbucks iced coffee with chocolate. My gym. Whole Foods. My Volvo. Cute apartment, my own classroom, and McKinley Park. My precious kitty, Maddie. Friends and family, my support team, all at fingertips length.

Yet, in 2 months I will leave my hometown for the last 10+ years of Sacramento and all these things behind, to embark on a new journey-- a new way of life, culture, language, foods, sights, history, in the Portuguese capitol of Lisbon. I won't know anyone. I will be stretched, molded, encouraged to grow, which is exactly what I know I must do.

I am honored beyond my wildest dreams, wearing the title of a Fulbrighter. I am ready to embrace this upcoming adventure, and the challenges it will bring, but it is still bittersweet. Saying goodbye to friends, family, and everything familiar, to take on the newness of growth and potential.

Lisbon, seaside

Today I say goodbye to hopes and dreams of one kind, to wake up to others. I am letting go, and making spaces for new people, places, ideas, thoughts, and love-- with an open heart.

A viagem da minha vida para vir ...

The journey of my life awaits...

cheers,

Kristy