Monthly Archives: July 2018

Frump? Harrumph!

I donated some of my everyday clothes to a dressing up box we used at Creative English camp. The game prompts students to layer up in random attire and then name the clothing and the body parts it drapes. Obviously … Continue reading

Posted in Armenia, clothes, Emigration, errors of judgement, fashion, identity, Party Games, Summer camp | 1 Comment

The Cambridge grads, pet people and STEM lovers–where are they?

It is easy to see why Cambridge want her. Emilia combines a ferocious intellect with a passion for animal welfare, and a desire to contribute to the future of her country. She is an all-round amazing young woman-fit, modest, kind … Continue reading

Posted in Armenia, Cross-cultural understanding, Emilia Simonian, Fundraising, Peace Corps, Peace Corps Armenia, Things that gladden the heart, Things that make a difference, Women, work, young women, Youth | 3 Comments

The real thing: not sugar that looks like salt

“Your stories matter” said the poet. “They are how you make yourself known to others. They are a way of stretching out your hand to someone else.” Damian says that the mistake most newbie poets make is that they feel … Continue reading

Posted in Armenia, Armenian writers, creative writing, Cross-cultural understanding, Damian Gorman, family, Hanna Huntley, know thyself, Learning, life lessons, love of words, National pride, Poet In Residence, Poetry, public speaking, story-telling, Summer camp, Teaching, Things that gladden the heart, Things that make a difference, travel, Writing, Writing Workshop, young women, Youth | 2 Comments

On working with a Poet-in-Residence

Sonnet for Damian Gorman “It’s bonkers” wrote the poet, ‘but yes, I’ll come” He packed his bag and caught the first of many planes His eyes were sore, his bum was numb He yawned and asked our students for their … Continue reading

Posted in Armenia, creative writing, Cross-cultural understanding, Damian Gorman, Education, Hanna Huntley, Household tips, Language learning, love of words, Marketing, Moonshine, National Poetry Recitation Contest, Poet In Residence, Poetry, red head, story-telling, Summer camp, Teaching, Things that gladden the heart, Things that make a difference, travel, visitors, Wilfred Owen, Writing, Writing Workshop, young women, Youth | 1 Comment

Wild Flowers of Armenia

Meadow sweet. Toothwort. Common Spotted Orchid. Creeping Thyme. Yarrow. Knapweed and Salsify. Cornflowers and Gentians. White and Red Clover. Poppies. Flax. Tormentil. Oxeye Daisies. Vetch. Musk Thistle. Sainfoin and Vervain. Mulleins and Fleabanes. Larkspur. Lady’s Mantle. Catmint. Cow Parsley and … Continue reading

Posted in Armenia, Beauty, dwarf iris Armenia, love of words, Nature, spring, Things that gladden the heart, travel, wild flowers Armenia | 4 Comments

Visitors

Yesterday was Merelotz in Armenia— the day when people go to graveyards to honor their dead. Merelotz happens several times a year– always on the Monday after a big public holiday. (Last week we celebrated Constitution day). Offices are closed … Continue reading

Posted in Apostolic church, Armenia, Cross-cultural understanding, death, family, friendship, gratitude, grieving, Hanna Huntley, Happiness, life lessons, Mother/daughter dynamic, pagan ritual, Peace Corps Armenia, Sisters, Things that gladden the heart, Things that make a difference, travel, visitors | Leave a comment