Hello Dad - From Your Brown Eyed Girls. We Miss You!

From Lamini with Love!

The Beginning - Not The End

The talk about this trip with Jen began over a year ago.  Since dad died on the 21^st of December and - one year later - was the “brouhaha” about the end of the world as the Mayan Calendar ended on that same day, it seems only logical that we be on top of one of the tallest and oldest Mayan ruins on the one year anniversary of Dad’s death.  Also, I kept teasing Jenn, that if the world did end, we should be as close to Heaven as possible so Dad could reach down, and I could push to ensure her admittance.

Despite a year of planning, in typical Schetnan fashion, nothing ever goes down as planned. We booked our boat with Reef Adventures directly and then had our hotel double book us with the Searious tours just to make sure we were covered.  I stopped by RA and confirmed with K-del on Thursday that we were all set.  He assured me it was all ready to go and to be at the end of the dock by 7 am. Cool.

At 7 am the next morning, we watched as the Searious boat (of which we were double booked) drive right by the dock. Not Cool. No worries, I assured Jenn many boats leave for the mainland at this time and our boat is probably coming shortly.  By 7:30, we were calling Searious.  They had no record of us. We moved quickly down to Reef Adventures to see what the heck happened and demand they take us personally, but they do not open til 8. In the meantime, I am lamenting to Jiggi (a friend from trips past) and his buddy as to what happened.  His friend said, “At this point, the only way to go to a ruin today is to fly. The last plane leaves at 8.”  It is now 7:55.  So, in Amazing Race mode, we book it to Tropic Air.  They are boarding the final Lamini flight. It is about $100 more per person to fly which was NOT in these unemployed budgets.  I looked at Jenn and she was tearing up….this is exactly why God created credit cards – what the heck!  I said, “Ok, book us.”

When I pulled out my wallet, I found no credit card.  I forgot that I had given it to Jenn 2 nights before, and it was still in her jeans. Unfreakingbelievable. I looked at the agent and said, “Listen, I work regularly at Holy Cross.  I promise to pay you upon return.  We are going as a is a tribute to our father.”  She handed us boarding passes.  Jenn did not even have an ID on her! 

Because of the date, all the ruins were expecting a huge surge of people.  In fact, some of them even hosted parties and camping the night before. Because we flew (and landed on a road that Jennie described as reminiscent of the gravel road leading into the Sherman church), we beat most of the crowds. After the amazing trip up the Belize river, we went right into the forest and Lamini < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamanai>.  When we got to the high temple, there was actually quite a crowd.  Our guide told us to wait a few minutes and then climb. He had our backs. When Jen and I got to the top, everyone was just leaving.  For a good 5 minutes, we were the only two on top!!  How does that happen?  The Holy Spirit!  We prayed, we spoke directly to dad, we hugged and then we just sat quietly and held hands. Dad was laughing at us – we heard him!

Crusing up the Belize River - Monkeys, Crocodiles, Anteaters...Oh My!

Belize Meet My Sister!

It has been a week and I have not found time to write.  Maybe it is more accurate to say that so much happens each day that I am not sure that I can adequately describe the Miracles on 18.0139° N, 87.9310° W latitude and longitude with words.

Before I left, someone back home asked me if it would be weird having my sister join me on this trip. I was confused. They went on to say, “Well, you have your own life and passions there; will your sister cramp your style?” That individual did not obviously understand the code of the “I’m In Girls.”  My sister is not only my best friend; she is my favorite travel partner in crime. I could not wait to introduce someone in my blood family to my families on Ambergris Caye.  so far, the only problem I have with her here is a lack of alone time to write.  Together, we just want to go, go, go.

The first couple of days, it was all about introductions – landmarks and people. People are fascinated by Jen as she “kind of” looks like Ms. Kim, and seems to know them before they even meet. As Jen has said numerous times, she is really enjoying putting breathing bodies to the stories and pictures.

Thursday night, we attended the famous Chicken Drop at a local watering hole. Basically it is chicken poop Bingo.  If the chicken drops on your number, you win.  And win we did – we left $50 richer. The center of the city was crawling with locals as a huge Mayan Celebration began around 8 pm. Dance groups, civic speeches, singing etc. continued until – I was told – until 5 am when the new Mayan Epoch was to begin. As I had already invested in a return ticket in January of 2013, I had faith the world was safe from any media manipulation that suggested the contrary. I needed to get to bed as 12-21-12 was a day that my sister and I had been planning for throughout the past year.

Ps...The Yankees Do Not Suck!

Thursday afternoon consisted of beating the hell out of the chairs that I bought so that I could distress them with paint. Thursday night I wanted to watch the Yankees/Baltimore game, so I finally showered for the first time in 4 days and went into town with Teake. He did laundry and I went to a restaurant that had the game on. The evening was going well as I enjoyed a delicious meal. On the top of the 8th inning, when the game was tied 7-7, a local couple in their 60's bellied up to the bar. Three minutes later, all the TVs changed as the A's were to begin their game. I asked the bartender if there were seriously going to change the station, and he apologized profusely as he said, "Yes."

The older couple was totally amused by question and muttered, "Yankees Suck." I ignored them politely and kindly reminded the bartender that I had asked if I could watch the game when I initially arrived.  I ordered food and a couple of beers. I was told that the couple were die hard A fans as is everyone in Guerneville, and that they had priority. Did I mention it was 7-7 in the 8th? I quickly paid my bill and hustled to another spot that he recommended. As I left, the couple yelled, "Go A's. Yankees Suck!" An hour later when I called Teake to pick me up and was walking to the corner of Main and River Road, the couple saw me and stepped out onto the sidewalk to harass me with continued chorus of "go back to the East Coast" and of course, "Yankees suck." So much for the laid back welcoming attitude of Guerneville.

You Can Take the Mom Out of Sioux Falls, but She is Always a Mom

The week slipped by too quickly.  It was four days of creating a nest for Teake that will comfort him yet encourage him to fly. Since we got in late, we got going on Tuesday a bit late too.  It was a day of shopping in Santa Rose which is about 15 minutes from Guerneville. As lovely as the apartment is, it needed a few things. Hitting the thrift stores proved productive as we found a new rug for the living room along with some funky barrel chairs from the 50's. I also purchased some fabrics for curtains, kitschy items for ambience, and necessities for the kitchen and bathroom.

The final stop was Trader Joe's. Oh, why does Sioux Falls not have a Trader Joes's? Someday I shall write a sonnet or love letter in ode to TJ. The first time we met, in NYC's Union Square, it was love at first sight...and smell...and taste. Amidst the free range chicken breasts, pesticide-free produce, a cheese selection of dreams and an aisle dedicated to Two Buck Chuck, I knew that I was ruined. I have feasted on mozzarella and basil (which I pluck off the actual basil plant I purchased for $2.50) grilled cheese and fired red pepper soup every lunch since.

Wednesday, I got up and walked the tree canopied road into town.  Teake lives on the banks of the Russian River, which has been described as the Apple River of Northern California. As it is now approaching the rainy season, the town is a bit sleepy, but from all accounts it is THE place to be on hot summer days to drift, swim and play in the water. It is probably not the best time to move here as the off-season means jobs are thin, but when the time is right for you the world will just have to adjust.  It is the right time for Teake,

I immediately found the town's thrift store.  It is ran by the lovely Andrea. I was there a full ten minutes when I realized that she is the hub of the homeless community. From underwear and clothes to special trinkets, she takes care of the less fortunate. The shop was busy with tourists, yet she was helping a man find new pants as he had soiled his. I watched for a while and then asked if she needed any help. She looked at me a bit oddly, and then I explained that I was on no real schedule, and it seemed as if she could use an extra pair of hands. I spent the next couple of hours cleaning and arranging the garage that housed the larger furniture items. I was assisted by Howard, a man who has  obviously lived a challenging life. He was excited by name as he had Kimberly tattooed across his chest - yes, he showed me. He told me that he was lucky because after his wife divorced him, he found another Kimberly as his second wife. Howard's thin face is outlined with years of substance abuse, but he works diligently as a disciple if Andrea. As I left for the day, she was helping Howard find pants that would fit as he had a lead on a job. I worked there for two days, and she graciously gave me an electric tea kettle, a toaster oven and some fabric for my reupholstered projects. It was a win win.

I wanted to teach Teake how to make the belt chairs that I have been selling in Sioux Falls. It is a great way to make a couple of bucks and keep busy in the evenings. As I was enjoying a taco from the food truck, I struck up a conversations with another local. I asked about where I could find a used bike.  He directed me to Tom who has a little bit of everything located behind the Safeway.

To describe Tom's "business" as an eclectic junkyard would be romantically generous. I was in heaven. He has a sign that says, "Don't you dare call this junk. it is a museum." My total ended up being 5 chairs, 1 lamp, 1 table, &over 70 belts for $55. All the items are in need of desperate repair, but the prospect of upcycling and resale is totally there. I plan on finishing all the items by Monday, placing them on Craigslist and leaving Teake with a bit of probable income and a skill that has artistic and monetary return.

Thursday morning I walked into town and went to the Chamber of Commerce asking if there was a seamstress in town. I had found a woman online who I had called, but I could not figure out her address.  It turned out that she was 4 miles up the road. What I loved about her ad was the description of location, "located in the Quonset hut and labeled Door B." When I called, she said that if I could come immediately, she could help me as the cafe was not yet busy, and she did not have a dog grooming appointment until the afternoon. I am not making this up. Suzy's Sewing in the quansett hut was just part of her business Mecca. The rest of the hut was dedicated to her restaurant

The women at the Chamber directed me to Bonnie a local upholster who specializes in road vehicles and boats.  I walked the mile to her storefront and had a ball! She and her assistant Cindy, put me in front of an industrial machine and let me work. They told me stories about the local flair - when they were not taking smoke breaks every 7.5 minutes - and laughed generously.  When I completed end curtains, Bonnie asked me if I would consider working with them in drapery.  I told her as much as I appreciated the compliment, my standard of "it's good enough for a town this size" would certainly not measure up to her reputation and skills. Teake's curtains do look mighty good if I do say so myself, and at the price of $3.50 for the material, it was a bargain.  The bonus was the friendship and laughter of Bonnie and Cindy

Teake' New Address - 14977 Melody Avenue, Guerneville, CA

Boise and My Best Friend

I write this as we are on the last leg of our journey.

We arrived in Boise, ID to the open arms and home of Julia and Tom Bennett. Julia and I picked up immediately where we left off by snuggling, sharing a bottle of wine and watching Law and Order. This was our Sunday night ritual for all the years we were neighbors and besties in Sioux Falls. She is my true Soul Sistah.

The morning included a breakfast that a well intentioned Tom attempted, but after a mishap with the hash browns, Teake took over.  Tom makes a much better barista. Their  kitchen window has a beautiful view of the mountains. A slow morning around a table with people I love full of rich conversation and delicious scrambled hash is the perfect way to begin a day.

Teake and Tom headed to a sports bar to catch football. As Julia is now officially back into the business of higher education after a 2 year reprieve, she needed to do a little clothes shopping. When she said we were going to the mall, I immediately got dry mouth and started to sweat. I do not do malls. I haven't been in the Sioux Falls Empire Mall in years. It is all too much of the same thing. The clothes all look alike; the women all seem to have that haircut that is longer in the front but pointy and short in the back; the lighting makes everyone look jaundiced; it is a blur of banality. So, I suggested we stop at a thrift store on our way.

I love thrift. In a thrift store you get to create your style not have The
Gap or Macy's tell you what it is. For $65 Julia got 1 dress, 2 dresses, 2 pairs of boots, 2 sweaters, pjs and some housing decorative items. Some of it high end designs and all of it super cute. As I am on the road and need to travel light, I bought Teake a couple shirts. The real deal was that by the time we were done, Jules was too tired to go to the mall.

We met up with Teake, Tom and Marie, a former student of mine and a dear friend to both the Bartling and Bennett Families. It was a fun afternoon of food and football. We ended day helping Julia unpack their art.  They have been in their new home since June and have been busy making it theirs with flooring and paint. It is a great mid-century home with many cool quirks, and since quirky would also describe Julia, it is perfect for them.

It was hard to leave her. Her absence has been some of the reason that I have felt lost these last few years. She is my greatest confidant, my cheerleader, my teacher, my witch doctor, my business partner and my best friend.  

Leaving South Dakota

Casper, Wyoming 

Clint Thomas' Front Yard

Guerneville, Ca

The Russian River - Teake's Front Yard

Sophistication in Wyoming

After weathering a couple storms on our first night of travel -one including actual snow - we arrived to the warmth of Clint Thomas' hospitality and home.

I have been blessed by Clint for many years.  Not only did he star as the lead in the USF musicals Bye Bye Birdie,  Damn Yankees, Crazy for You & Seussical the Musical, his presence on and off the stage was one of extraordinary sophistication. In the dictionary, the first definition of "sophistication" is "uplifting enlightenment." That phrase epitomizes Clint. From the first time I met him at an audition, to last night sitting in his cozy living room, Clint has this amazing way of lifting you closer to God and enlightening you as to how you can better serve as Christ did.

As Teake and I travel away Casper on Wyoming Highway 220, we feel humbled. The geography is not lost on us. We agree we are so small against the mystery of the God's world. Also, we agree that we grow when in the light of people like Clint Thomas. He shines as a beacon of truth and the exudes the warmth of faith. Like my friends, Bob Young, Roger Fredrikson, Kirby Wilcoxson, Rachel Olsen, Rebekah Merriman, Brenda Paulson, Dennis Thum, and Karen Sumner, Clint Thomas makes you a better everything in his presence.

Go West Young Man

Well, in perfect Bartling fashion, we got off to a bit of a late start. Teake's plan included us leaving sometime between 12 and 1. So, for us, 3:30 isn't so bad.

We had not even gotten off Minnesota Avenue before I was told what's what and how this was all going to go down.  Evidently, three unsolicited pieces of advice was two too many for less than one mile of road time. I used the, "But, I am your mom, and if I don't remind you who will?" He was having none of it. The great thing about Teake and me is that we have it out, and then we are done.  I reminded myself to put a cap on the "mom tongue" and he immediately started another conversation by making fun of me.

Here we go, packed up like the Clampetts, we have "loaded up the truck" and are heading to California. I tried to create new lyrics to the Beverly Hillbilly song inserting our own names and story, but when I asked Teake to join in, he said he had never seen the BH nor did he know their theme song.  I have failed as a mother.

I thought it would be a swell idea to stop and give a moment to all the South Dakota landmarks along the way. You know, remind us of our roots, appreciate the state's nuances and bid adieu. Unfortunately, when he refused to take a swing through Mitchell to view the Palace of Corn, I knew all grand illusions of soaking up prairie nostalgia were to be broken dreams.

Al's Oasis did call us in a like a siren of the plains. "Come, sit, eat a buffet, buy bad Native American kitsch!" United, we defied the temptation of cheap coffee, delicious pie and an absolutely perfect hat for my next trip for Belize. However, since I have been limited to two small carry-on bags and a purse for 3 weeks and coast to coast travel, I resisted the urge to purchase in lieu of traveling light.  Another tank of gas and a Kimball popcorn ball will tie us of til Rapid.

Why is it that I always am reminded of the majesty of South Dakota's geography each time I cross the Missouri? Spoiled must be the word.  I take the beauty of the flat fields and the breathtaking sunsets for granted. Yet, there is the paradox of tradition and ephemera each time the vehicle comes over the Chamberlain cliff. I reediscover the river is sill there yet the view is even more beautiful this time.

Teake and I pass the time sharing ear buds listening to his favorite tunes from The Band, Ray Charles, Cat Stevens and Al Greene. Between learning to walk and talk, I remember him making verbals for me to play Zepplin's Black Dog over and over.  He would bounce, hum and clap; he so badly wanted to let go of the chair and move independently to the beat. The only other option he would tolerate was War's Low Rider. I knew he was my old soul at 16 months. Here we are, 21 years later. Now we are holding on to each other as he takes his next nervous - yet excited - steps toward his new life in California.

Giving Older Pieces New Life...This could be the title of my life and not just the furniture.

The Tale of Two Sylvins

My father passed away on December 21^st after a 4 year battle with cancer. Margaret Edson wrote in her Pulitzer winning play Wit, “How can time hang for so long, yet there is so little of it?” It was a long, hard – yet, way too brief – struggle. I have written many stories about my dad, cancer and lessons learned.  Feel free to snoop around my blog and read them.  However this is not a story about him or us.  I preface the story with this information as it sets the stage for the story of Mel and Chibo.

Because I had interim off from USF, I decided to spend the month of January working at Holy Cross in Ambergris Caye, Belize. Being a Schetnan, and never wanting to miss the party, I decided that I would leave on the 28^th as to celebrate the New Year with so many of my new friends. The passing of my father changed these plans. It was my siblings who demanded I still go on my trip.  Jen agreed to stay for the month to help with mom, and Thad – always our prince – just said, “We will all be here when you get back. Go.” So on January 5^th, I headed to Belize with 200 lbs. of tennis shoes, sweaters and school supplies.

Ms. Lydia, the volunteer coordinator, set me up in a house behind Hotel del Rio.  It was a perfect setting as it directly in between San Pedro Town and San Mateo where Holy Cross is located. Also, I had a great view of the ocean…heaven on a stick. I immediately became friends with those that run the hotel. Like so much of Belize, it is a family affair.  Suyapa runs the office. Her brother Thomas is the manager of the entire facility. Tomas’ wife’s sisters Mel and Nolvia are the housekeepers. The first couple of days, I got to know the women as I had coffee on each morning. Before I headed to school, and they went back to their cleaning, we shared a cup and conversation. Over the next month and since, I have been treated like another sister which includes the perk of being an auntie to Nolvia’s four gorgeous girls.

On my third day, Mel told me she wanted me to meet her husband.  They actually live in one of the units at the hotel, so I had seen him coming and going but had not yet been introduced. This was the conversation:

Mel: Kim this is my husband. Please know since we live right next to you, you will always be safe.

Me (extending my hand):  So glad to meet you; I’m Kim.

Chibo: (grabbing my hand with both of his): Welcome. I’m Sylvin.

After what I am sure was a long and awkward silence from me

Me: Your name is Sylvin?

Chibo: Yes.

Me: How do you spell it?

Chibo: S-Y-L-V-I-N

I just began to cry.

First of all, I have never met another person named Sylvin other than my father.  Secondly, my grandmother – bless her heart – misspelled his name by using an “I” instead of an “a.” After I explained the reason for my tears, I was embraced by my new friend Sylvin.  I immediately emailed my mother and told her not to worry as Sylvin lived next door. These people continue to be my Belizean family.

In early May, I received an email from Mel letting me know that she and Sylvin (Chibo) had moved to Corozal on the mainland.  A week later, I decided to make a last minute trip to the island to watch my students perform in the Festival of the Arts.  Surprising all my friends including them was certainly on the agenda.

When I go to Hotel del Rio, Nolvia asked me if I had heard that Mel and Sylvin had moved off the island.  This was an obviously sad sister.  I told her that I was going to visit them before I left and asked her what prompted the move.  She said that their church had asked to me go as they needed some adults to help in the Corozal community.  Since both Mel’s and Sylvin’s families all live on the island, I was a surprised by the move.

Like every time I go to Belize, time got away from me.  By the last week, I was somewhat resolved that there was just no time or money to sneak away to the mainland. I was deep into working with Ivo and his family and being a little selfish my morning snorkeling time.  Except – darn that Holy Spirit!  It just kept at me.  Since I travel on a limited budget, I knew that if I was going to go, I could only afford the water taxi. I also only had one day and night to make the trip happen.  I could not deny the pull of my heart to carve out the time to visit my dear friends. So, I headed to the taxi at 6:30 am on Monday as their website cited 7 am and 4 pm departures to Corozal.  Let’s just say, the website needs updating.  Two old guys were sitting on the dock drinking Belikins. I asked them if I missed the boat.  Please cue laugh track.  Turns out the boat only leaves at 4. Well, this won’t work as I really can’t afford 2 nights of a hotel and 2 days away from school. Again, I was resolved to making the visit next time.

Later that morning, I was out doing errands.  I needed to secure a tutor for Ivo and Garielle. The Department of Education gave me the name of a woman and they best way to find her is at the airport as her family all works there. While there, I thought, “What the heck, I will just check on flight times and costs to Corozal.”  The woman working the counter said, “Are you the lady who works with the children?” I said yes. The next thing I know, I have a round trip ticket to corozal that she made happen for the same price as the water taxi. Life and God are good.  I emailed Mel and told her that I would be there by 10 the next morning, stay overnight and leave on the 6 am return flight.

I was the only passenger on the flight, so I rode co-pilot with Captain Doug. Mel and Sylvin picked me up via cab. We went immediately to their favorite restaurant to catch up.

We went to their favorite restaurant. We spent our first hour just “catching up.”  Actually, they asked me a lot of questions about what I was doing during this trip at Holy Cross. They asked about my family. They asked about our friends and their family on the island. After we ate, I said, “Well, I am excited to see your new home. This is when things got very quiet.

I cannot effectively tell the next part of this story.  Some of it is because the conversation lasted over 4 hours. Some of it is because it is so personal that I feel honored they trusted me with it. However, most of it is because I just cry when I think through it.

So, here are the Cliff Notes: Sylvin and Mel left the island for the mainland to follow their dream. Skyline (Chebo) was offered a job with the most successful contractor in Corozal District of Belize.  In addition to this opportunity, they were given 6 months free rent so they could begin some saving for a home. Militza (Mel) has a dream of opening her own daycare. On the third day of work, while Chebo was hauling cement to the top of a building, the last rung of the ladder broke. He shattered his right foot.

Days later, the contractor disappeared. It turns out that he is wanted by – well, everybody to whom he owes money.  He left his wife and two small children. He is now wanted by the Belizean authorities. As Sylvin said, “He went from being the ‘toast of the town’ to a fugitive.” 

Sylvin and Militza sold everything they owned to make this move to Corozal.  Now, they have exurbanite medical bills. They have lost their salary, and the apartment they were to have for six months is now for sale so they may have to be out at any time.

After listening to the whole story, I looked right at Sylvin and said, “Can’t you go home? Go back to the island.” Mel, who had been looking at Chibo and holding on to his hand as they shared their story, just began to weep.  Sylvin said, “We are almost forty years old. We were not blessed with children, and through the church here in Corozal, we see a need. I want to be a strong, male role model here, and there is a need for daycare here.  On the island, their opportunities were exhausted.  They no longer wanted to serve tourists.  They want to serve children.

The next question I asked was, “So, what is your plan?” In addition to the daycare, Sylvin and Militza thought that they could make pizzas and sell them. They don’t want to open a parlor, just sell pizzas.  Also, because Sylvin has experience in tourism, he is interested in eventually starting a guide business. Currently, there is no such thing.

The final question was, “How much money do you think you need?”  After a lot of uncomfortable filler on Chibo’s part, I asked again. “Sylvin, how much do you and Mel need?”  The answer was $5,000. “However, the bank will never give it to us. We have nothing to use as collateral.  We lost it all.”

The only other part of this I want to share is what happened when they left me that night at the hotel.  Mel had gone to the bathroom, so I took the opportunity to put $400 in Sylvin’s hand. It was all I could pull from the ATM.  He grabbed both of my hands, looked right at me and said, “I will never forget this day. It is the beginning of Sylvin’s life.”   How amazing to have lost the only other Sylvin I have ever known and loved in December only to meet another Sylvin who loves his wife as much as my father loved his. Also, my father always taught us that, “Pride will kill you.”  This Belizean Sylvin did not let his pride get in the way of my help as it would with many men. 

Now, I ask for you to help me help them.  I am collecting money to give directly to Sylvin and Militza.  I will take any denomination – a dollar to whatever you can spare.  Every penny will go directly to the Foremans. I will be forwarding it directly to their bank account from my account.  I promise you, this is an investment that you can’t lose. 

Feel free to send the money via Paypal at Kim.creativeconsulting@gmail.com  or send me a check:  Kim Bartling 1607 S. 5^th Avenue.  If you are local, I will pick up money.  If you have any other way that you would like to send money, just let me know.  I am up for anything.

Please feel free to call or text me 605-376-8440 or email me at Kim.creativeconsulting@gmail.com

This sure beats shopping at HyVee - gathering my on meal in the sea: lobster, bass, and ceveche dinner!

Caye Cooking with Kim

Friday was a blast! I went over to ask Chedd and Kdell at Reef Adventures if they had a group going out snorkeling at 9.  They said to come back then and they would create a group. I was somewhat disappointed as they called in another guide.  I love going out with Kdell cuz he always brings a little food for the sharks which guarantees LOTS of them, and he takes us in and down around cool coral trails. So, when it was a new guy named Russell, I was skeptical.

The two other couples – I am always with couples during these types of outings – were really cool.  The one couple was from Billings, Montana and the other Sacramento. When we got out to the reef, the man from Calif. asked for a life jacket. Turn out that he can’t swim. Ok, so that sucks for the rest of us as not we will have to go slow and basic; at least, that is my assumption.  Instead, Russell basically leaves this guy to his own devices. At one point, I heard his girlfriend yell, “Hey, can we get some help over here?” Russell acted as if he didn’t hear them and since the current was really strong yesterday, I told him, “Hey, I think they are struggling a bit over there.” He responded, “They are fine.” Weelll…okay then. Once they caught up, I offered my 5 minute snorkel lesson.  The 2 most common mistakes are flipping one’s feet instead of making bicycling movements and looking forward with your snorkel instead of straight down (otherwise you will forever be spitting out salt water).

After a couple of hours with sea turtles, sharks, stingrays and every color of fish imaginable, it was time to head back. Russell was not a talker, but when we docked he asked me what the rest of my day looked like. I said, “Heck to the yes, I do!”

So, after purchasing a couple of snack lunches at the deli – which in Belize means chicken, rice and beans – we headed out.  It was fantastic. We lined fished down the reef until we found some good bait, which Russell scored.  Then we went out to calmer waters to cast fish. When I got to hot fishing, I just jumped in and snorkeled.  This was the entire day – cast, reel and dive!  I wish I could tell you the name of all the fish we caught, but I am not yet that sea water savvy. I can tell you one is called a grunt fish, because when you pull them in that is exactly the sound they are making – weird. Also, I know we caught sea bass because I caught the biggest fish of the day, it was a beautiful bass.

Next came the cooking lesson. I am now a ceviche expert! Unfortunately, our ceviche was illegal as conch season is closed but we gave thanks to the gods of the sea as we did snag a couple so to make my dream of making my own ceviche could come true. On the other hand, Lobster season just opened so Russell dove in and snagged us a couple of those two. Unfortunately, my camera card is being fussy so pictures of the final feast will have to wait!

Also, in island cooking news, I made a “vat” of guacamole last night that was almost a piece of art. The avocados are about the size of a small child. So, I used 3 of them with fresh garlic, tomatoes, cilantro, onions and habaneros. I went a little crazy on the habaneros so the first taste was a…mucho caliente!  I had to jump in the pool because, and I am not kidding, my entire face felt like it had some type of battery acid on it. The answer was simple – add a couple mangos. I feed the entire hotel and staff.  The staff is not used to using avocados in such a way so they were impressed.

Cast Party With My Wild Things!

Holy Cross Stage Debut Opens to Rave Reviews!

It is Saturday, and I have been on the island since Tuesday evening. Unbelievably, this is the first time I have had a window of time to write!

Between grading, packing, flying to Belize City and riding a boat, I literally face planted it into my bed at The Tides upon arrival.  I am too old to not sleep for 40 hours.  Wednesday morning I wasted no time in getting over to Holy Cross and see my kids.  Ok, I will admit it, there is nothing like the rush of love that happens when I walk onto the school ground. Then, when I entered Standard 4 – the classes that have been working on their plays since January – I was physically enveloped with hugs.  There was no time to waste; we had a play to polish.  Yes, there were to be 2 plays, but one of the classes had some difficulty so the teacher decided to withdraw.  I was a bit disappointed, but now we can directly focus on our production of Where the Wild Things Are.

I went back and retrieved the costumes that I had brought with me.  Here’s a known theatre fact…it doesn’t matter if the students are 12 or 21, when they first get their costumes, they all become a bit crazed and revert to about the age of 5.  There is no fighting it – just take a deep breath, stand back and let them emote.

We practiced until school got out, and then I was off to work on the costume’s final touches back at the hotel.  Thank the Lord for glue guns!  Also, thank goodness HC had one with extra sticks. By the end of the night, my room was littered in fabric scraps and ribbon.

The class was going to meet me at the high school auditorium at 9ish.  Since it is directly next door, I assumed I could roll out of bed at 8:30 and still beat them there.  Wrong. At approximately 8:20, I heard voices downstairs by the pool, by 8:25, they were chanting, “Ms. Kim, Ms. Kim, Ms. Kim.”  At 8:30, Ms. James was at my door. Holy Cow, they meant business.

Unfortunately, the auditorium was in use, so they had to walk back to the Holy Cross. I had a few things to pick up and by the time I got back to the school for our final rehearsals, Ms. James had been pushed to her last nerve.  The kids were sitting on the back porch of the school. Ms. James walked by me and said, “I am not doing this anymore.”  I asked the kids what happened, and they all spoke at the same time, each with a different story. This was exactly the problem.  Evidently, one girl was so awful, she had already been sent to Principal Grace, and Ms. James had told the rest that she was, “going to cut their tongues out.”  She also declared that she was no longer attending the festival.

I took off my directing cape and put on my counseling crown.  Poor, dear Ms. James was sitting in her classroom with tears streaming down her cheeks; plus, she was mad as hell. This woman is a tough cookie and the best teacher in the school -  they really did it this time.  In reality, we all want the same thing… to be heard and respected.  I assured her that all plays come together like this.

 I used my “theatre is birth” extended metaphor.  When the play begins, it is like one finds out they are expecting.  There is excited anticipation and delusions of grandeur. Somewhere in the middle of the gestation, things switch. It all becomes daunting; people get irritable, and it seems like it is never going to end. As the due date approaches, it is a mixed bag of emotions with fear looming in the back of the brain and heart. Then there the moment of delivery – this chaos includes mandatory screaming, a few tears, and even nasty words blurted in the heat of the moment. But in the end, the play opens and the baby is born. The most amazing part; however, is the amnesia that immediately replaces all the previous emotions. As mothers we forget the pain, and as theatre people we forget the long nights, brutal rehearsals, and the irritating qualities of our cast mates. Also, with each child and play, our hearts grown more open.  It is like a long, refreshing drink of pride, joy and love.  It is this amnesia and euphoria that are responsible for families with more than just one child and the multiple performances that those of us in the theatre have on our resumes.

She wasn’t buying it. She was sad and pissed and just needed time away from these “wild things.” I went back to the kids and told them that they had succeeded in making their beloved teacher cry. You should have seen their eyes.  Ms. James is a battle ax, and the thought that they made her crack unsettled them.  It was the best thing that could have happened to the rest of our rehearsal time.  They focused and worked. We polished dances; we worked on projection; we solidified staging; we sang like fools!  When Ms. James came back 90 minutes later, she had her war face on. Even I was a nervous as the kids did their final run-through. Miss James sat stoically. She then turned around to me and whispered, “It was perfect.”  The students were dismissed and told to congregate at my hotel at 4:00, as the festival was to begin at 4:30.

At 4:20 there was no Ms. James.  I began to think she was really serious with her boycott. However at 4:30, she came all dressed up and ready for a show. This brings me to the topic of Belizean Time.  Now, I know anyone reading this is thinking, “Really Kim?  You, of all people, are going to complain about things not starting on time or people not showing up on time?”  I want to assure you that I am not complaining – just informing my general public – that when a Belizean event is scheduled to begin at 4:30, 6 pm is probably more of a reality. Even this morning, my neighbor was supposed to begin his snorkeling lesson at 9.  The instructor showed up at 11.  

Back to the Festival of the Arts.  Every school from the island was included in the program. We were to perform 6^th out of 22 acts.  They did great!  The only real snafus came with the narrator (who lost her place for 2 huge pregnant pauses),  and only one microphone worked, so they had to pass it from character to character.  They danced the wild rumpus the best they ever had.  It was fun, colorful and they were beaming.  I wish I could have captured their faces when they heard the audience’s applause, but I was too busy with a standing ovation.

I know I am biased, but it was the most creative entry of the evening. They were the only play.  All the rest were dances and solos.  In the end, we received a silver.  Of course, I am disgusted that the kids are being adjudicated in the first place. Also, the middle judge did not even look up.  Who were these three experts? What were their qualifications? Of course, I do not share any of these thoughts with the students.  When they asked me how they did, I replied, “It was exactly the way I pictured it!  I loved it; you are all brave and talented stars!”

The next day, I brought a cake and juice to class for a little cast party.  Of course, there was some Monday morning quarterbacking, but they were still all reeling in post-performance ecstasy. I knew the project was a success because our toughest critic, Ms. James gave me a hug when I leaving and said, “So what do you think we should do next year?”

Saturday Morning Homework with Garielle and Emiline - Belize Bingo Babes

and in other news on the island...

Of course, I spend a lot of time with my 8 year old Mayan boyfriend Garielle.  Thursday night after Festival of the Arts, he and I went to his home to see if he could escort me to the chicken drop.  His parents, Shelby and Gloria, invited me, and we had a lovely visit. Gloria is fighting throat cancer, so they have just returned to the island after spending almost 4 months in Mexico where she is seeking treatment.  Garielle has been with her and not in school this entire time, so he and I are working of lots of homework.  This morning we worked on spelling for hours.  He is so dear.  He is working hard, but yet so far behind. Yesterday (Friday), I hung out with my friend Ari and then went to Bingo at the Lion’s Den.  My same posse of Bingo girlfriends were there, so I bought a round of Cokes, and we got to down to business. For the second time, I won blackout!  An extra $100 is always a plus! I have been doing my own water aerobics each day (Garielle counts out my reps for me), running on the beach and eating right.   I feel so much better physically, mentally and spiritually. Tonight a storm rolled in which means staying in and reading. I couldn’t be happier.

Life after Christian Liberal Arts...

Each of us is born with the gift of art within. It is my passion and calling to leap with others as they peel away layers of fear, insecurity, judgments, doubt and even bad habits. As they recognize their authentic talent and voice, I am by their side. It is not my job to create a series of hoops for them to prove themselves. It is my job to help them reach their highest and to champion them as they do so.


I have continually advised my students that the bigger the risk, the larger the artistic payoff. Whether studying a subject that seems greater than they are, taking on a leading stage role, beginning a business or moving to major city, students have routinely succumbed to their fears, questioned their knowledge, examined their choices and second-guessed their worth. It is at this moment - when they are the most apprehensive and frightened - that their best work often happens. When we step forward without knowing where the next foot will fall, our most profound work can happen.

As I leave formal teaching and head into a world of my own making, I am scared, apprehensive and nostalgic…It is now time for me to walk the walk and practice what I preach. Imagine the art that will follow.
As a college professor and artist, I maintained a rigorous schedule of activity and still managed to nurture multiple external projects focused on the arts, service and marginalized populations. As I leave the academy, I am ready to dive into those external projects fully. Each opportunity makes excellent use of my skill set as an artist and professional, offers career development opportunity and - hopefully - enriches arts, culture and community. Following are a list of the projects that I am currently passionate and committed. 

1. In Development

a. Staging across South Dakota: Ephemeral Productions

Background: Ephemeral Productions was created in 2001 with colleague and best friend Julia Bennett (formerly a theatre professor at Augustana College). Ephemeral Productions creates outstanding theatre productions and brings award-winning literature and strong roles for women to South Dakota stages. In the past three years, Ephemeral has written and presented two original scripts: Great Women; Great Plains and Riveting Rosie: Dakota’s Women at War. EP has also created two original productions over the past two years for a charity event that raises support for Theresa’s House, an orphanage in the Congo that specifically cares for girls. Theresa’s House was founded by current Sioux Falls resident and Congolese native Theresa Kashale.

Projected activity: We have been asked after every production to consider touring our shows – Great Women and Riveting Rosie: – as they would be well received at every corner of the state. We have declined in the past because of other professional obligations. Now is the time to finally extend Ephemeral’s outreach by sending our excellent, entertaining and educational productions across the state.

Ephemeral Productions is also in the planning phase to produce the play Mrs. Klein by Nicolas Wright in an Off-Broadway venue. Tony Award Winner Michele Pawk has agreed to play the lead role. As a South Dakota theatre company we are thrilled by the challenge to show NYC "what we got!" and to bring that work back to our state.
b. Stage to Page: Melody Off-Key

Background: Melody Off-Key is children’s book and stage play. It has been performed in Sioux Falls as part of Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation Summer Theatre performance. Also, it is currently in rehearsal to be performed by Holy Cross’ Standard 4A Class at the San Pedro Festival of the Arts on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize in May, 2012. It will be the first time Holy Cross School will be included in the festival. This is particularly important as as HCS reaches the poorest children on the island; available faculty for enrichment activities is non-existent. Since January of 2011, I have traveled to Holy Cross three times – twice alone and once with a group of 18 University of Sioux Falls students. In addition to creating athletic grounds and opportunities as well as teaching in the classrooms, we have brought theatre (and this play) to the school.

Projected Activity: I am committed to seeing Melody Off-Key to publication as both a children’s book (complete with original music) and playscript, and I am in conversation with a professional children’s book illustrator.

c. Blog to Book: Theory of Dakotivity.

Background: I author a popular blog called The Theory of Dakotativity. Many of the essays included are about growing up in rural South Dakota and being raised by blue-collar parents - also native South Dakotans. The stories are rich with lesson, love and humor.

Projected Activity: I am working with a South Dakota publishing company to create a book from the blog.

d. Children at Risk - Arts Education

Background: Since 2007, I have devoted time in my daily routine as a professor, director and mentor to create and teach a theatre course at Joe Foss High School, a high school for alternative learning in Sioux Falls. In my tenure, Foss students have written and performed - under my tutorial and direction - a musical entitled Second Chances, several children's books that have subsequently been read at local elementary schools, and local commercials celebrating the legacy and impact of Joe Foss High School. I have also created camps and other performance opportunities for children locally (Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities), nationally (New York City) and internationally (Belize, Central America). I have designed syllabi, organized and trained counselors and directed the projects.

Projected Activity: I will continue constructing and actualizing fresh ideas and performance possibilities with students from Joe Foss as well as in other venues nationally and internationally


e. Television Pilot

Background: I have developed an idea for an HGTV program. The project not only provides a history of Americana architecture; it showcases compelling examples of structures in a dilapidated state that are subsequently renovated. The featured sites include one-room schoolhouses, railway depots, silos, barns, warehouses, and more. By showcasing regional sites, this project can increase national awareness of South Dakota’s rich history and beauty.

Projected Activity: I am commited to finding the financing to shoot a pilot to shop.


2. Currently In Progress

A. Theatrical Theory Trade Text. Since 2007, I have been interviewing Broadway playwrights, directors and actors on their responses to a series of concepts advocated by theatre theorist and director Anne Bogart. Ms. Bogart has "green lighted" my writing of a book to complement her theories and production work. I am currently completing interviews and will begin compiling the data into a final draft this year.

B. Consulting. Creative Consulting is the business I began two years ago; through CC, I offer motivational speaking, business communication consultation, creative problem solving and project development. I intend to launch the business at a larger level throughout the upcoming year.

C.Unstuck. For the past several years, I have been leading students and congregations on service trips. This experience gave birth to the non-profit project "Unstuck." An early-stage service organization, Unstuck assists individuals, families, churches, business and organizations in creating vacations that involve a service component. Early target includes trips to New York City and Belize, Central America. To read about previous trips to Belize, please go to www.unstuckbelize.org and my blog at http://www.dakotakim.blogspot.com/.

D. Director for hire. From community theatre to the academic stage to a business conference, I am available.

Dr. Ethan Is In

Here is a story that happened to me on my last weekend on Ambergris Caye, Belize...

I was to show up on Sat. morning at my friend Shelly's house to work on a fund raising event for Mama Vilma's House (a safe house for women and children.) We created a fashion show that featured clothes from all the boutiques on the island. Afterwards, there was a dance etc. Tickets were $25. Anyway, when I showed up at 8:30 am to go to begin work, another woman was there waiting for me. She said that needed my help - that she had heard that I was a child therapist.

I told her that she was misinformend - that I was a teacher. She said that someone told her to find the blonde American who worked at Holy Cross because I had a "special talent" with children. She said her best friend needed my help asap.

Here was the story...Her best friend was married to a man who was a closeted gay. Years ago, they decided to stay together because they had children, but that they would be allowed to live separate lives. Well, he had been diagnosed as having diabetes. In reality, he had kidney cancer.  Sadly, he died the day before. The wife (her best friend) is 8 month pregnant with someone else's child

 

They have one child that is 4 and a son - Ethan - 9. Ethan was not told that his father was ill until 2 days prior. So, one day he finds out his dad is sick and the next day his 31 yr old father is dead.

 

Ethan began immediately acting out. For the last 48 hours he was either dispondent or screaming. For some reason, they thought I could talk to him.

So, what do I am I to do? I - again - reiterated that I am not a child therapist. They said there was no such thing on the island and needed help. I said, "Ok, bring him over to where I will be working on the Mama Vilma's House event, and I will do my best."

So, here comes this goregous little boy. I have return to my house to grab my computer, so I said, "Ethan, do you want to drive along or do you want to stay here and swim?" Unbelievably, he chose to come with me.

We get in the cart and I said, "Ethan, is it true that your dad died yesterday?" He nodded. I said, "Ohmygoodness, I am so sorry. Would you mind if we could be quiet for a while as we drive because I might cry? It is not fair that a 9 year old boy loses dad." He nodded again. So we rode for a while. Finally I said, "Ethan, did they bring you to talk to me because Shelly and Monica knew I was really sad too? Did they ask you to talk to me?" He shook his head and looked confused. Then I said, "Cuz my dad died about a month ago from today, and I came to Belize because I was sad and mad and scared." Then, this kid said after a long pause (this is God's honest truth)...."Well, maybe you needed to come here to clear your head."

The rest of the day, I told him the thoughts I had, emotions I felt etc and let him diagnose me. It was a beautiful day, and I learned tons. At the end of the day, we were going back to my house, and I let him pick out a pair of shoes and a couple of sweaters and toys (i come with a k-mart in my pack)

Then, we talked about his mom having a baby, and his little brother, and how she was probably scared and sad like us. I told him how I always feel better when my sons hug me and tell me it is going to be alright. I asked him if he would consider hugging me since my sons were in the United States.  We hugged a long time

Then he told me that his dad drank too much. I said, "Yeah, my dad drank too much too, but years ago he quit, and it was really hard. But, the good news is that you can't drink in Heaven and my dad was waiting for him to show him around. Ethan, you know what my dad is doing right now? He is pointing down at us and saying, 'look at my silly daughter, she thinks that she can be best friends with a little boy. She has so many different types of friends!' You know Ethan, it doesn't matter if you are 9 or 49 like me...when our dads die it hurts the exact same.

We are now emailing a bit back and forth. I am sure he helped me more than I did him. I guess I am a child therapist - this child did a therapy number on me.

An the Oscar Goes to.....

Monkey Business

The following is a true facebook chat with my sister (with a little scrubbing to make it PG rated :)

Me: I have to tell you about my adventure to Lamani yesterday. Lamani is the largest of the Mayan ruins. The boat picked me up on the dock at 7. There was a party of 25 booked on this boat trip – twelve couples and me. Yup. And no one wanted to be my friend.

When we got to the river at the mainland, we switched guides and boat to take us into the country up this river. He said, "if a money jumps in the boat, you can feed it peanuts or granola if you have it." Well, I happen to have granola along.

Sure enough, a monkey jumps in. Everyone is delighted. I have granola in my hand, so it came right to me. The next thing I know, the monkey starts to choke. Seriously choking. It places its hands around its neck for the Heimlich Maneuver.

 The guide yells, "Don’t feed it Cracker Jacks!"

 I said, "I didn't...really...it was just a nut and some oats...no honey or anything."

 In the meantime, the monkey curls up in the fetal position, wraps its arms around its head and begins to cry.

 Jennie: So you’re killing the wildlife of Belize?

Me: A woman on the other side of the boat yells, “You did too give it Cracker Jacks; I saw it!" I am pleading with everyone that I really didn't.  Pretty soon, the monkey just gets up and jumps out of the boat.

I swear to God that monkey was TOTALLY over dramatic about the whole thing.  Everyone hated me.

Jennie: Unbelievable. Thrown under the “boat” by a complete stranger!

Me: On the way back, - much to my surprise and dismay - it was a booze cruise. The company supplied endless rum punch and Belekin. Of course, I can't drink, because of my antibiotics.  I am the only one not partaking. So, they think I am “little miss priss.”  The only saving grace was out boat driver from Ambergris Caye to the Mainland was an absolutely adorable Belizian kid named Aaron - a smile to die for. He liked me and I helped serve drinks. Of course, there was no gratuity for me. Jennie: So, was it cracker jack? Truth. Me: NO...why would I have cracker jack? They are just lucky I didn't correct them as they kept saying “Cracker Jacks “ It is “Cracker Jack” no “s.” Seriously...the monkey had issues Jennie: I would have dumped out my purse to show them that I didn't have cracker jack. What a bunch of jerks. Me: Also, I lowered the age on the trip (other than the guides) by 15 years. Lesson learned. Next time poll the roster Before setting sail…I should have learned this from years of watching Gillian’s Island.

Teaching "Thriller" as part of the "Wild Rumpus"

Amoeba, Movies and Music...Oh My!

I haven’t posted a lot this trip.  I guess some of it is that I have settled in a bit.  I don’t feel as if I am on vacation; I am just living. My days are similar as I wake around 8, eat breakfast, read, prepare for school and then head off to Holy Cross.  We are working on 2 plays in Standard 4.  One class is performing Where the Wild Things Are and the other is performing A Melody Off Key.  So, I have been gathering props and working on choreography. 

Today, I also went into Infant 2 and did theatre songs: Bingo, The Shark Song, Head – Shoulders – Knees and Toes, The Hokey Pokey, The Moose Song and Jesus Loves Me.  My dear, sweet Garielle is in that class and wanted me to come.  They are adorable.

The big news has been my “amoeba.”  Over a week ago, I came down with a parasite.  I will admit, it scared me a bit.  I have never passed so much blood or been in that much pain – not even in labor.  Monday morning, I went straight to the clinic.  Want a true 3^rd world experience?  Head to the one of two doctors on the island on a Monday – all that was missing was a goat and chicken.  Babies were lined up for nebulizers; I guess this is common practice for colds etc.  One woman walked in dilated at 10. Less than 15 minutes, the baby was crying and 2 hours later, the whole family was leaving. I was still waiting to see the doctor. 

Once called, you sat opposite of the doctor in his office (the door never shuts, so you can watch each consult). I told him my symptoms; he never looked directly at any of the patients. Then – in the same room  -  he did an ultra-sound of my stomach.  I then had to produce a sample of the alien output.  He said, “You have an amoeba. Do you know amoeba?” Me: “Like a parasite?”  He responded, “Amoeba.”  The nurse told me she had seen worse as I had to leave the sample with her.  I can’t imagine.

I am on my 9^th day of antibiotics and feeling pretty crappy.  There is nothing like a parasite in your intestines to slow a girl down on Fantasy Island.  It has been a lot of Ramen noodles, crackers, diet ginger ale and cereal.  It is a lot like college but without the beer.  Also, I figure that I am only about 2 more bouts of dysentery away from my goal weight.

At night, I read a lot and watch movies on my computer.  There is a Chinese place on Front Street that sells movies for $2.50. They are new release pirates. I am sure it is illegal as the day is long, but the store seems to do well.  When I return to the states, feel free to borrow from my new collection: Moneyball; Eat, Pray, Love; The Runaways; For Colored Girls; Like Water for Elephants; Bridesmaids; Burlesque; Like Crazy; and Friends with Benefits.  Also, if you have anything you really want me to bring home, just ask.