Potential to Do Harm

[Photos © Eliza Alys Young, first posted on December 22, 2012] In the days since the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut, we have, as a country, struggled to make sense of it all. Every parent has thought of their own children on that day and are grateful they are safe. Some are …

Dominican Essentials, part 2

Dominican Words or Phrase Worth Learning This is a list of words or phrases that are commonly used in the Dominican Republic. This is by no means a complete list nor meant to be a Spanish dictionary but just some that I have found useful living here. I will add to this over time. Aguacero …

The Blame Game

Above image from newsone.com Like most people, I have my political views which I share with my friends. I am normally low key about politics but this year has been an exception, with polarizing language used in this election pulling me into a more active involvement. But now it is all over and time to …

Dominican Essentials, part 1

Decoding the Dominican Republic The Finger Wag This is one of the most valuable gestures I learned for dealing with Dominicans. If you are in public and a Dominican tries to shine your shoes or sell you something, just saying “no”, shaking your head, or walking away will not work. They will follow you and …

What Country Am I In?

My life in the States is like many others who are middle-income and raising children. I wake up early to get my kids on the school bus. I work hard when they are in school. After school I juggle their activities, my remaining work and dinnertime. Bedtime finally comes and after I work a little …