SHORT PUMP, VIRGINIA

After residing near the Short Pump area for the past two months, I realized that though I understood how much cultural and ethnic diversity existed in the area, I had yet to reach out a hand and meet any of the faces I saw. In an effort to put some names and a few stories in the arena, I tried–with a few friends, of course, a "Humans of New York" type project. I am amazed at the variety offered by a little shopping suburb of Richmond, but just as sure as ever that our Father God is the most imaginative and talented creator.

"You search out my path & my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways...I praise you, because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well."  Ps. 139.3,14

Left: Alex; Atlanta, GA • Right: Liz; Atlanta, GA

Robert; San Antonio, TX

Vivek; Mumbai, India

Lisa; Richmond, VA

Dan; Knoxville, TN

Ellie; Richmond, VA

Eric; Nepal

Towan; Charleston, WV

Georgina; Lincoln, UK

Left to right: Peter, Maggie & Bonnie; Vietnam

Left: Lenny; Richmond, VA • Right: Christine; Garmisch, Germany

RICHMOND, VA • LAMPLIGHTER ROASTING CO.

I might not know the most about coffee, pour overs, or the mechanics of roasting beans, but I know what tastes good and I'm always looking for a good place to go for a cup. I try to find places that are intimate, yet open, cool, but not too pretentious. 

I've been able to visit the Summit Avenue location of Lamplighter Roasting Co, both times with creative friends who are headed to other parts of the world soon. I tried both the Ethiopian and Ugandan pour overs between each visit., both dark and delicious. Their pastries are fantastic, I've tried a sweet potato muffin and alfajores (an Argentinian delight made with two cookies cemented together with Dulce de Leche and rolled in coconut flakes).

This weekend, I went with Katie, who will be living in Southeast Asia with me. I'm definitely looking forward to exploring the creative vibe of eastern living with her!

SQUIRREL FRIENDS

We've had a few strong storms here recently, and even though that brings a lot of joy to my heart, this little guy was thrown a little off-kilter. Probably mom-less at this point, this baby squirrel has taken a liking to humans and it's pretty adorable.