Oh yes, the stuff

So I'm down to my last few days in the US and A, trying to get some things done that would be difficult (if not impossible) in Malawi.

The first has to do with a little something I saw sitting on my shoulder the other day:Do you see it? As it turns out that's my hair. Yup, not brushing it for, uhh, a while has really caught up with me. Have no fear though, in big city Philly, I got seriously trimmed up. And it wasn't cheap - think, over 8000 kwacha.

Ah yes, the "after" photo:
Second, and this is really good news for you dear reader, I got me a fancy pants camera in the NYC. Yeah, check out some of the artsy shots taken thus far:
Holy moly, these are so inspiring.

Lastly, I've been doing some clothes shopping. You know, I want to look GOOD in Southern Africa. I thought, where better to go than The Gap (for further explanation, see: http://www.theonion.com/content/video/gap_unveils_new_for_kids_by_kids). Shopping, however, seemed a bit overwhelming and I quickly became frustrated with all of The Gap Crap (not to mention getting stranded/lost/separated in the parking garage and freaking out).

Andrew, however, did quite well and was super psyched to find a sweater perfect for after lacrosse game wearing in Baltimore.
Anyway, after dropping some serious cash on food (black beans, dark chocolate, other luxurious items), I feel well prepared for the next two years. In fact, I'm really, really looking forward to going back to work (read also: credit card maxed out from US and A "non-negotiable" pricing).

So the next time I write I'll be in Malawi. I promise to be a better blog master this year. Hey, maybe I'll even make a contract with myself (shameless product placement only for you D-man)

Right, but before I sign off, let me send a very big yooo to the peeps at the DOE. After a visit to the old office I was greeted warmly by all my co-workers and perhaps my biggest blog fan - you know who you are Mr. Nuclear Energy Performance Management.

Word out folks.

Home of the Simpsons

As promised, here is the statue erected in the center of my home town, Springfield "Springer" Vermont. I especially like the contrast with the quaint New England church in the background. I am unsure of the permanence of this sculpture, but based on my systematic assessment above, it appears to be made of fiberglass and is most certainly signed by Matt Groening (in black marker).

I would recommend a visit to see it for yourself. Perhaps in the summer--as you can see the snow compromises one's view. If you do visit in the winter, wear snow pants (see hot black pair above).