Las Mercedes, Caracas, Venezuela, February 2024

It is a very busy February here, and I am spending a long Carnival weekend in front of my computer working, rather than celebrating and dancing away on the beach, as many residents of Caracas do. No complaints though! Things are good and interesting despite needing to read dozens of various project proposals that our partners are sending to us for our consideration. I find studying project proposals to be educational most of the time. You are actually forced to have time and read in details all sorts of analyses and arguments which at the end of the day allow you for having a broader understanding of the environment you work in. So as I said, no complaints, it is an inspirational task that I am undergoing.

Last week was stressful. I was in a hospital doing my regular medical check-up. It involved a colonoscopy. Although, I did not find the procedure troublesome, I was a bit worried about the results. Luckily, all seemed to be fine, and the doctor commanded me on my efforts of doing regular check-ups. I guess, I would only voice her to all of you. Please go and make sure that you do your preventive/screening health procedures, even if scary sometimes! By the way, I was so impressed with the service that I received here at the Santa Paula Clinic of Caracas. Very friendly and professional team, for which I am very grateful!

I have already got my tickets for the conference in Washington DC bought. Now, it is time for actual preparations so that the trip is as useful as possible. I am going to be having a series of meetings with various organisations this and next week, so that I get a full picture of what to expect and this should help me prepare better for my own advocacy messages.

While I know the US a little, it will be my first trip to Washington DC. I will not have lots of time, but should manage some free hours for exploring the city. I wonder what advice you would have for me regarding what is worth seeing, except the White House, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument?

Obviously, I will be reporting back to you from the US trip in my posts and this should include a new photo gallery as well. Stay tuned, if interested!