Lea’s Suitcase

Due to the popularity of our book club, I cannot show the faces behind the Hard Covers Book Club. This is a very exclusive club and have to be “asked” asked to join by our very own President Chris… he runs a tight ship and is a hard nut to crack. Our mascot, Oscar, is also not shown for the fear of “cat”napping and ransom notes. Another member was teaching yoga this particular night and couldn’t make it. As for myself, I am the designated Historian so, I document the experience.

My recent travels have brought me to yet another country… or better yet, Continent. Cartagena, Colombia is the 5th largest city in Colombia (see you learn something by reading my blog too). I spent about a week here; ate some good food and met some great people. The weather was hot and only had time to bronze for 1 hour the whole time I was there. the best was quoted by Brent: “hows the cocaine down there”. I responded, “i don’t know but the coffee is strong”.

Juan Valdez is their version of Starbucks. Maybe Starbies got the idea from Juan.

mmm, Plantains. Pretty much a staple at every meal.

Does the Congac fairy visit you every night? She did at my hotel, it was delish.

most all the homes downtown look like this.

you can borrow cell phones on every street corner for 200 pesos a minute.

im a snack head. yay for churros.

My version of a Coffee Break. You get a shot of water with a mint leaf to freshen your mouth after the coffee.

we have a latte in common

Fernando Botero sculpture

fresh Limonada. Blend limes with sugar and water, then strain. Best treat ever!

Fresh coconut milk on the streets.

Ive been slacking lately cause ive been out of the country….again. Is blogging while texting “multitasking”? Seems like the only time i have recently. Real quick, funny story. My flight was delayed last night. Then, a man on the plane inappropriately touched the flight attendant so they kicked him off; yet, he wouldnt leave. The cops were called and he was escorted out. Meanwhile, the lady next to me was eating xanax like tictacs. People can be so nuts. Ok, pics will be up soon.

Mr. Jones is my new friend in Chicago. Thx to Katy for letting me come help her take Mr. Jones out and feed him carrots. I will visit him again in the near future.

Thought i’d try out my PostBot while Huyfoto does a shoot. Turns out to be pretty neat-o.

A group of kids in Orlando have put together an organization to help support art programs in the school. This past weekend, Melissa was one of the featured artists along with other photographers, painters and live laser art. It was all hosted in the Winter Park Lofts in the Penthouse… I am a fan of concrete stained floors and exposed beams.

If you have never been to the Black Bean Deli, i suggest you check it out. Ask for my friend Andres, he is good people… always supporting great causes around town. I recommend the Empanadas.

Token Azn DJ... I like this guy or anyone who plays Buffalo Stance. Thx dude.

Some of Melissa's featured photography.

1/16 of the crowd at the Loft

Julius and Twinkle-Toes Metha... Ladies, he is still single!

This laser was hooked up to a computer and you can draw on the side of the builing. Security had to come up because the people below thought a sniper was upstairs... due to the green light.

more of the other featured artists paintings

Rockstar Photography by Brook

Cog and Chain Tee's. My thoughts, Julius' execution.

Andres starting the dance party off right, with some Kid-n-Play dance moves.

Teddy's last weekned to hangs before he starts school again. Metha celebrated with a pink milkshake for him.

My sister is a 1st grade teacher and when I have some spare time, I get to volunteer. I am known as Ms. Lea or the other Ms. M. It doesn’t fail but, every time I go to the elementry school, one of the kids has to ask “Ms. Lea, whats that in your nose?” or “Who are you, are you gothic?” Of course, they are asking about my nose ring. Anyways, last friday was Fun Friday so, I decided to bring the book “Riceheads Revenge”… to my success, the kids loved it. Here are a few pictures of the Friday before easter.

my sisters classroom

i had to hide all these eggs in the classroom but make it easy enough for 1st graders to find them

oh Ricehead, be nice to Noodoll

There is not much to be said about such a beautiful country. I will let the pictures speak for themselves. A humbling experience.

The Russian aircraft to get there

This is the tunnel the Spaniards used to travel in before the revolution.

I would drink one of these Juices every morning

shrimp and lobster skewers in downtown Habana

traffic light system adopted by the chinese. it counts down the seconds before it turns green and vice versa.

Habana Mornings and delicate sunlight

Vino y Cerveza. Yo aprendo rapido.

la musica

I think my dad is one of the funniest people know.

streets of Downtown Habana

street corners

colored sand mural

Spanish Influence, Catholic Cathedral.

boats and part of the fort

after a hard day at work. this is my version of business casual.

If you are into Old cars, there are lots of them here.

This is for you Dawls and for all my friends who ride Vintage Bikes. This one is from the former West Germany circa 1970s

I have graduated to Cuban Espresso.

The entire time I was there, a song kept going through my head… the song by the Spooks “you won’t believe the things i’ve seen, far beyond your wildest dreams”

Happy 1st of the month. If you say “rabbit rabbit, white rabbit” upon waking up, you will get good luck the rest of the month.
Rabbit Rabbit, White Rabbit