09 September 2001

Satisfying Weekend

I'm wrapping up a particularly satisfying weekend.

It's strange that it was so satisfying, because all I really did was: dissertation research (a LOT), watch a little football, gym.

The dissertation isn't heading quite where I thought it would, and I have some regrets at this stage about tackling such a large topic intellectually (I think that's normal with a major research project), but it's progressing, and I have gathered tons of material to sift through before I begin serious writing on my final substantive chapter.

I AM enjoying studying the interaction between politics and law. So much so that I've begun thinking about post-dissertation life, with some preliminary consideration being given to the evening program at UH Law. I shall have to consult Andrew as I think more seriously about it.

* * * *

I drove through one of the worst neighborhoods in Houston today on my trip to and from the UH library, taking West Alabama all the way to UH from Montrose through neartown and the third ward, an area of almost unbelievable poverty and squalor. Given the recent conversation at Andrew's place, this set me to thinking about ANY policies likely to improve the situation in this area. I didn't really come up with solutions. A couple of interesting observations: over half of the public-housing apartments I drove by had DSS dishes outside, and there was a much greater sense of community (i.e. people gathered about on the street, on porches, etc) than what I see in Houston areas that are less poverty-stricken.

[Posted @ 11:36 PM CST]