A new month means another one down in prison. Normally, not much happens at a camp, and I find myself stretching for content. But not this week. There’s so much to cover that I’m saving the biggest story—why I moved out of the “retirement wing” (P-4) and into P-3—for a separate midweek post. Trust me, it’s filled with more high school-level drama than you’d expect from a federal facility.
Let’s start with a little arts and crafts.
With a new RDAP class graduating, several inmates went home—always great to see. Unfortunately, the only two skilled sewers in our building were among them. Sewing is one of those critical inmate hustles. As I’ve said before, you have to get creative with materials to make the things you need in here.
Before the best sewer—nicknamed “Little”—left, I commissioned a special project: a custom tablet holder I could wear while running. My previous setup was a bulky, makeshift backpack made from starter belts and a laundry bag. It bounced around while I ran and would ride up, nearly choking me. I looked like a malfunctioning X-Men character.
This time, I designed something more efficient: a slim pouch made of sweatpants material that fits the tablet snugly, with drawstring arm straps (from laundry bags) like a mini backpack, and a detachable clip for easy removal. Little even added a button lid to keep the tablet secure—so secure I can now do yoga (yes, including handstands) while wearing it.
I wanted adjustable straps, so I dove into the world of knots. I ordered a knot-tying book and began practicing. I figured learning to tie a variety of knots was both useful and a constructive way to pass the time. So yes—this week, I’ve been proudly telling people “I’m getting knotty.” 😄
With my new knot skills and my slick new tablet holder, I’ve become the envy of the compound.
In addition to arts and crafts, RDAP has opened new roles since the recent graduation. I’m now officially in Phase 2—think of it as being promoted from a freshman to a sophomore. I like staying engaged, so I regularly take part in group discussions, run morning rituals, and lead the “word of the day” activity.
This week, I tried out a new role: RDAP DJ, in charge of the pre-class music. I decided to introduce everyone to my recent obsession—classical piano. It was 7 a.m., and I figured some calming sonatas would be a nice switch-up from the usual aggressive rap. I was wrong. Midway through the first sonata, five or six guys yelled at me to turn it off—some even got a little threatening. I reluctantly gave in and put on rap.
Then, at the end of class, a different group gave me a hard time for caving in. Apparently, I managed to disappoint everyone. My DJ career is officially over.
But here’s the good news: I was offered an even more meaningful role—Community Facilitator. This is the person who leads the entire RDAP meeting and assigns all eight of the smaller roles to others the night before. It’s a very social position, and honestly, I hesitated. Most people know I’m shy. But I’m here to grow, not hide—so I accepted. Tomorrow is my first day leading. Wish me luck!
So that’s the first half of my week: custom sewing projects, knot-tying, RDAP drama, and stepping into a leadership role. Between yoga, marathon training, reading, and these new responsibilities, I’m busier in here than I ever was on the outside.
Stay tuned for my midweek post about what led to my big move out of P-4. Until then, stay safe—and never take what you have for granted.
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