Back to What Matters

My dad's new mode of transportation

Henna and using a decal, something new

"Laila, please take our picture!"

Walking path in village

It's the small things

This baby goat lost it's mom....

Welcome Illiyis to the family and village

Hair henna makes me feel good

Getting back to the village and being immersed into nature, animals and new life has been helpful in getting perspective and recharging. It's getting hot here again and I am focusing my energy into planting and making a small garden in my apartment with verbena, basil, succulents, mint, geraniums and cactus while I also look for creative ways to teach. I keep reminding myself it's all the little things that matter and sometimes that's enough. I am using the mantra; "this experience is pertinent in my life". With a lot of gratitude for what I have here and now, I am fighting homesickness by talking with friends, trying something new, exercise, nature walks, journaling, dancing and yes, a new pair of impractical sandals, a guilty but much needed pleasure. Today I was invited to the village after class by a few of the women at the Association, I was served tea, fresh bread, olives, oil, fresh butter, nuts and given 3 pairs of sandals, a bracelet, earrings and sent home with fresh eggs and milk. This is what I love about Morocco, the hospitality and the humor Moroccan's can have. I need to remember just how lucky I am.