The cafe is getting busier and busier. This is prime time. Soon, Harvard will have commencement and it will be insane! I’ve asked for four days a week instead of five, because I stopped taking care of myself (i.e. showers, laundry, dinner, etc…worse than USUAL, believe me). But, that hasn’t happened yet. Another cool thing about my new and improved schedule is: two days barista-time and two days prep-cook/line-cook time. 

I’ve learned a lot while barista-ing, but one thing that blows about it is DUN-DA-DA-DUN is that I am now experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome. My tamping wrist (the right hand) gets really sore and my hand can’t hold onto cups, plates, and bowls like it used it. I plan on buying a wrist guard to wear at night, starting tomorrow. I talked to my friend Tim, who has been a barista for nine years, and he said, “Oh yeah, that pain never goes away. Sorry. Just make sure your wrist is straight when you tamp.” I’ve been reading about wrist exercises, so if anyone has any advice…LET ME KNOW.

As for Lesley, they have offered me a course assistant position for an Honors English Composition Writing class for undergrads. I haven’t heard much else (like, if they are going to pay me or if this is just for credit), but I’m excited!

At Books of Hope, the teens are almost done with their poetry books. WHICH IS GREAT, because they have all gone crazy with spring fever and are really looking forward to going on their poetry-performance tour, and of course summer break. There is going to be a TV special on soon on SCAT (Somerville Community Access Television), so STAY TUNED. These kids are awesome.

Also, I am planning to go back to Redemption Tattoo soon to plan my next body art adventure. I’m going to get a cap sleeve. And, I think it’s going to be in color. I have ideas. I’m also going to try and speak with the same artist, Josh. I like his style. And, whenever I see him walking around Somerville, he says, “Hi.” Maybe he remembers my back, or maybe he remembers me asking for a laugh-break in the midst of getting inked. Or, maybe he’s just really nice.

I would also really like to go on a vacation. Back-to-back guests plus talking to people all day plus volunteering for things two times a week plus submitting poetry to places is now a bit of a strain. I’m going to Jamaica at the end of May for a wedding, so I have nothing to worry about! Right? Right!