As summer 2026 comes to an end, I reflect. This summer, I directed a research program (44 students), wrote and got a new article accepted for publication (thanks to my dear friend and colleague, RL Watson & shout out to their new business, Broken Pen Society), finished and submitted a third draft of my book, and started prepping for my new (second) job at the Haitian American Museum of Chicago.

I also rested, got to see Clipse live again, loved on my beagles, went to the movies with my friends (Backrooms was my top film), and rewatched my fave shows (love you forever, Mad Men). I traveled a bit, got back to lifting weights, ran a 5k, rode on a camel, went to the beach a few times, and officially started the adoption process. I’m most proud of myself for taking care of my mental health in the face of really troubling times, both macro and micro.

And that’s all for summer 2026! Cautiously looking forward to what comes next. Because life is more than work, but doing good work feeds the soul.