Another Year Over, A New One to Come

December 23, 2021

Another Year Over, A New One to Come

Sitting on my bed. Cozy with a blanket over my legs. YouTube playing Christmas carols. Candy cane- striped mug on my nightstand. It's definitely a day for coffee. As a treat, I've added some dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer.

It's odd coming back from a warm climate this close to Christmas. And especially from a country that by and large does not celebrate this holiday. There's jet lag. Climate adjustment. Commercialism shock.

Rather than being part of the Christmas build-up over the past month or two, I've been dropped into it. And before I have time to properly catch up, the holiday will be over.

This morning I went out to join the shoppers. Got a few gifts and some goodies for Christmas Eve dinner. Looking forward to assembling a colorful and tasty antipasti platter.

As I was leaving a big box store, the sound of a bell hit my ears. At the far entrance, someone working for Salvation Army was inviting people to donate to the charity. I didn't have to look. I just knew. The red kettles and high-pitched bells have been a part of the Christmas season for as long as I can remember.

Ever since watching It's a Wonderful Life, bells have been special to me. Whenever a bell rings, an angel get's it's wings. I couldn't help but smile. Christmas spirit initiated.

Christmas spirit Step 2, gingerbread houses. This afternoon.

Step 3, trimming the tree. Tomorrow. Is it Christmas Eve already!?

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I'm at a loss for what to share today and yet I want to post something. It's been far too long! And so, I bring you a collection of random photos from my recent time in Senegal.

Early morning drive to the Plateau (downtown Dakar) to bid farewell to our Patient Selection Team before they travel the country for a couple of months. This road, which runs along the ocean, is usually packed with vehicles.