Homeward bound

I'm jumping the gun here, but I think both Kojian and I just got so excited to switch me to the repat page. Perhaps I can start by sharing the preparation experience for such a move. And there is SO much to tell. I fly to Paris on May 1 and continue to Yerevan on May 6. Until then, there is too much to be done to possibly finish it all. In true Arsineh nature, I have decided to double up major events in my life: April 24th events and packing my life.

I just returned from a 2 week visit to LA where I managed to see half of the population of Glendale and fit in some work as well. I was brought into the PR team for the ANCA Telethon to take place on May 21 throughout the United States. In record time I managed to pump out posters, banners, ads, postcards, and then some within a few days. I also had some time to hang out with Gor Mkhitarian who's popularity is growing. I also had a chance to hear the new CD from the group "Element" which I have to recommend (beautiful). I met one of the musicians who is dating a friend of mine, and the music is in him. I also caught up with my dear friends Armen Carapetian (ANCA Executive Director) and Ardy Kassakhian (Glendale City Clerk) over REAL tacos at a run down taco shack... mmmm... followed by a visit to the Paul Krikorian campaign headquarters in the middle of Easter night at 2 am tossing around a football... and nearly smashing a fax machine. Good one Armen.

Of course LA is never complete without the MANY cousins. I had Easter dinner (night before, barskahye style) with my cousins on one side, mostly reminising on memories and laughing the night away. Easter day was spent with my cousin and his wife's family who are incredible. Sometimes families are meant to come together. My cousin's wife's neice also graced us with her incredible smile and playfulness. What a happy baby! A good time was had by all.

Now I'm back in DC facing a loaded week. I'm currently wrapping up some design projects for Meneshian while preparing to move to Armenia. To top it off, this year's April 24th in DC will be a historic one. As you all probably know, Serj and John from System of a Down will be attending all the events in DC, including the Demonstration at the Turkish Embassy, A screening on Capitol Hill of the documentary "Screamers", and the Armenian Genocide Observance on Capitol Hill on Wednesday. To add to that, David Alpay (played "Raffi" in "Ararat") and Alecko Eskandarian (of DC United) will also be attending the Hill Observance.

But as the protest creeps up on us, it is starting to feel more like we are preparing for battle. It seems the Turks have organized a counter-protest at the same time, same location. Extra Tshirts were printed, extra signs were drawn, and the buzz is spreading. Expect to see record numbers this year. But I can't help but anticipate major confrontation considering only 4 lanes with a lot of rush hour traffic will separate the two groups. I'm glad the Turks don't realize that they are getting us more pumped and will create more of a scene for the public to see. Apparently the local DC rock radio stations have been promoting the protest to System fans. I have been designated the official photographer for all events, so my website will be updated VERY soon, which adds more work to my plate before I leave.

But to get to the most important issue here, the dominant thought in my mind is the excitment to move to Armenia. Just the last few weeks of traveling, moving around like a drifter, practicing the minimal life, I can't wait to lay my head down on my new bed and call it home. Every conversation I have, every email I receive always turns back to that subject. My Armenian eye doctor asked me what I'll do there. Some people are emailing me thinking I'm already there. Some people are frantically calling to catch me before I leave, some are sharing their envy, some their confusion. But few truly realize what this move means, and pardon me for the overdramatic sentimentality, but those who know me can appreciate it's honesty. This move has been 4 years in the works. There was very little doubt in my head through the years, though there have been weak moments. There have also been desparate moments where I was close to catching the first flight to Yerevan without telling anyone. Many have asked me what I'll do there. I have options, but nothing is in stone. I will go with an open mind and open heart. But the one thing I feel most is strength, and almost excitement to face the challenges I know I will meet. It's a good thing I've tried this before.

So much can change so quickly in such a short amount of time. Where just over a month ago I was doing the daily routine and working an 8-7 job with little freedom to move about without my boss's okay, the last month and next week, month, year, life, will bring me excitement and freedom to live a life a have chosen for myself. If only I could recite this, I'd win an Oscar.

Stay tuned for all that's to come.