Much needed updates

My blog has definitely been neglected due to how busy I got, which was my fear. Yet, I am back to try to remedy this void of blog-ing.
My internship has been going very well. I cannot believe I am now closer to the end than to the beginning of my time in Chicago. Time is flying by. I have gained very valuable lessons in learning immensely about homelessness, black culture, and social work. I have also obtained amazing connections, networks, and friends through my co-workers and experiences in the south side. The neighborhood I work in is getting increasingly violent because more warm weather brings more gang activity. I have yet to directly be involved in any problems, luckily. I do not regret walking the streets and riding the public transportation instead of driving though. I believe that part of working where I am is understanding the society and culture that surrounds the area. Just because you have privilege and power does not mean that you should always use it. I am constantly reminded of this fact.
My paper is also coming along... I have three more sections to complete. It is a constant stress on top of working fulltime so I will be glad to have it done... hopefully sooner rather than later. Yet, it is due in a few weeks anyway.
I have also started running which has been a wonderful self discovery. The trail that runs along the lake is beautiful and very close to my house. The cooking gas has also been out all week at my house so salad and bagels have been my main source of food, which is quite annoying.
I am also going through the lovely life decisions of post-graduation. I have been accepted into Loyola University Advanced Standard program which is very affirming but I am not sure that is what I want to do next year. I am working on getting all my documents in for Americorps (www.americorps.org) so hopefully I will be living in the high mountains of central Oregon near Mt. Bachelor!..ya know, the second biggest resort in the country. yesssss. Today I went downtown to get fingerprints to obtain a Federal Background Check. Once I pass that (2-3 wks for processing), all my paperwork and documentation is in for Americorps! I may be devastated if I get rejected, heads up family.
So, I am starting 'endings' with my clients and factoring in the limits of my time left here in Chicago. Tomorrow I am doing a presentation to a group of teachers and students who are visiting my work. I will be talking about what I do at my agency, the program I am doing in Chicago, and social work in general. I hate public speaking so I am quite nervous. Yet, tomorrow is friday so another week completed and another weekend to enjoy (and work on my paper).