Saturday, January 3, 2009

A Very Merry Christmas and Happy 2009 to All of You.

Hello all:)
Well it’s officially been a year of service here in The Gambia and I have to say its been one to remember. I’m anticipating a speedy next year due to projects/work being in full swing and the feeling of urgency to take the things in that I didn’t get to last time.

I now know the rhythms of this place and yes it took a year. Now I know that mango season last only 2 months and then there is not a mango to be found for the rest of the year. I know that rainy season is full of mold, amazing rain storms, and is the one element that changes the African bush into a hot humid green jungle (of sorts). The dry season is DRY and DUSTY; the sun is so penetrating that to can feel your soul getting sun burnt and all turns to brown. The people I’ve met and the things I’ve seen have left a long term impression on me that will forever allow me to see and understand the world a little differently. I have been blessed with dear friendships that will last the rest of my life and made acquaintances that I will never forget. My work here has forever changed my definition of work, what is work, how things work and I will never again take for granted the value of a good functioning job. Also my view of the US and the meaning of home has changed significantly. But above all, this year has opened my eyes to the beauty, amazement, bewilderment and shock of the whole world and I long and hope my life is full for travel, in the US and abroad.

My Environmental Ed Club in village.
My "Kids"
So one more year to go. For this next year… I hope, I hope, I hope some of my projects will be prosperous and sustainable. I hope to make a mark, any kind of mark. I need to travel!! I haven’t left this country and need to see other parts of Africa!! I’m going to eat too many mango's. Dance in the streets, during a big rain storm, even if the adults think I’m crazy. Do some African bush camping. Join the women in their fields more during rice season (it is the hardest job). And to take all the kids from my village out in nature and show them something that will make them squirm with wonder. We will see.

Village boys playing in the rain.


I had a wonderful Christmas and an amazing New Year, by the way, one that I shall always remember. I missed you all so very much and you were not far from my thoughts.

Hugs from Gambia


Look who came to spend X-mas with me. Fun times:)