Tag: Journal

My First Week in Mexico City

Posted on by Schalonda

“Ive seen a few of these around the city but none quite as colorful. One thing Mexico City has no shortage of is colorful, artistic eye candy”

Discovering Chapultepec

I arrived in Mexico City the evening of June 19th. I’ve been exploring my neighborhood, primarily by foot, for the last week and I may have already found the brightest gem in the  City.

My first idea was to stay in the Zocolo neighborhood, the historic center of Mexico City, because it sounded like the perfect sight seeing location. But after further research, I opted for something less centrally located. Instead I chose a place close to a big park because I love parks and google maps said this park had museums and a zoo, which I have yet to visit.

Turns out this is not just “A park,” but it’s actually “THE park,” kind of like Central Park to NYC, and locals call it Bosque de Chapultepec or Forrest of Chapultepec.

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What’s in the bags?

Posted on by Schalonda

A Detailed list

It’s Tuesday, June 18th, the eve of my departure from the US to Mexico City. After much deliberation, My bags are finally packed for an indefinite journey and this is a list of my chosen “must have” items to start things off with. Anything else will have to be acquired along the road.

TLS Mother Load Rolling Weekender

Inner Suitcase

4 Tank Tops
2 Leggings
2 Skorts
3 Hiking Pants (capris)
2 Shorts
2 Tankini Tops
1 Short Sleeve Top  
2 Sports Bras
9 Underwear
5 Socks 
1 Hanging Toiletry Bag 
1 Scarf
1 Comb
2 Drawstring Ponytails
1 Chord Organizer
1 First Aid Kit
1 Sleeping Bag Liner
1 Pack 14 InkJoy Gel Pens 
2 Packs (16) Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Towelettes (10% picaridin)
1 Pack (15) Repel Mosquito Wipes (30% deet)
1 Laundry Bag
2 Microfiber Towels – M & L.

TLS Mother Load Rolling Weekender

Outside Pocket

1 Pair Sandals
1 Box 36 Staedtler Fineliner Pens 
1 Bag Liquid Toiletries
1 Journal
1 Toothbrush.

Pacsafe MetroSafe LS450

25 Liter Pack

1 Travelon Purse 
1 Universal Travel Adaptor
1 Canon PowerShot SX420
1 Mpow Bluetooth Earbuds w/ Carrying Case
2 iPhones 
1 Hiking Shoes
2 Socks
1 Capri Legging
1 Tank Top
1 Microfiber Towel – S
1 Laptop
1 Tablet
1 EasyAcc Portable USB Charger 
1 Toothbrush
1 A5 Soft Cover Sketchbook
1 Set 14 InkJoy Gel Pens – used 
1 CamelBak Stainless Steal Water Bottle – 40 oz. 

The Journey Begins

Posted on by Schalonda

Los Angeles, CA

I’ve lived in Los Angeles since 1998. 21 years ago I moved from San Diego to Los Angeles so I could finish school, get my BA at CSUN and defer repayment on my student loans.

On Wednesday, May 15, I caught the 10pm Amtrak from LA to San Antonio. I thought a 2-day train ride would be a great way to get my thoughts together before leaving the US for my first international stop, Mexico City. I also really love the train and the fact that it’s a great place for drawing is an added bonus.

When I arrived at LA Union Station I was feeling nervous. Maybe because I was leaving behind most everything I’ve known for over 21 years, maybe it was fear of all the unknown ahead, maybe it was both or maybe it was something else all together. Instead of trying to figure out why I was nervous, I decided to use that energy for good.

I met a fellow blogger and train enthusiast name Rick, who was on a 23 day Amtrak adventure through the US. Rick snapped this pic of me and my sketchbook.

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For Sale: My American Dream

Posted on by Schalonda

I Bought it, the American Dream

If I’m honest, I’m not sure where the dream came from, but I take full responsibility for adapting it to fit me and pursing it to the best of my ability. I did everything I was supposed to. I went to schools, including 2 jr colleges, 2 Cal States and a trade school. I bought a diploma and a BA. I bought 20+ years of student loans, credit card debt, car payments and dreamiest of all, a home that came with HOA dues, property taxes and 2 mortgages, yay!!

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