Thankful

for the blessings of a new year

for the blessings of my family with its new life, young life, and old(er) life

for the blessing of dear friends, in multiple corners of this beautiful world

(so patient while I stopped at every chance to have caramel apple ciders and hot chocolates)

 for the joy that is Christmas

for the snow that blessed me with seasons

for the blessing of fresh air, potable water, a roof over my head, 

an education, the chance to serve, and unbounded joy

for the quirks that remind me of why home is home

for the quirks that make Senegal my second home