Weekend out west and Tech days on the hill...

D.C. is one of the most urban of urban jungles. Within 10 minutes walking there are so many options for entertainment one cannot possibly be bored. But with all that cityscape, one does get a strong desire for some down home easy going country time. Well, luckily for me I got that chance last weekend as I went back to Lubbock for the first time in 3 months. Actually, I was only in the LBK for not even a full day, as I spent most of my weekend in the mountains of New Mexico (which are absolutely gorgeous). Either way, seeing my Tech friends and getting some time away from the urban jungle of D.C. was just what the doctor ordered, as I had an amazing weekend and was completely refreshed and refueled to finish out this internship back here on the East Coast.

This first week of March has been nothing short of wonderful. And how could it be anything less? For Texas Tech was on full parade this week on the Hill. Monday night meant free dinner with Tech President Guy Bailey, VP for Research Dr. Eighmy, and others. Wednesday night included a great Tech reception on the Hill including many members of Congress, Dr. Bailey, and Chancellor Hance. I also got the unique opportunity to sit down in the lobbying meeting between Hance, Bailey, other Tech reps and my congressman. I will tell you this: Hance is the consummate politician. I mean… he doesn’t turn it off. He is in politician mode 24/7. He can schmooze and remember crazy stories from way back when, and he is great with names. I can learn many things from someone like him.

There are some great things coming up in the near future as well!

-Abbie is coming to visit this weekend!

-We are going to a Jamie Cullum concert Sunday, which I am super stoked for.

-Houston Rockets game vs. the Washington Wizards on March 9.

-Goin’ to Philly in a few weekends to tour and check out UPenn.

-The parents are comin’ to D.C. for a few days in two weeks, and it should be a lot of fun.

P.S. - Everyone check out my article in the Daily Toreador (www.dailytoreador.com) this week about country music.

Enjoy the photos below and until next time…

Peace and love,

Noel