Happy New Year

So it's already 2019 in Australia...we celebrated Perth time in the company of Aunty S with pudding night and a dance off. Here on the African continent the music is pumping up out in the inky, close night; the bass beat vibrating through bones. Back in the UK I can imagine log fires, cosy jumpers and a bottle of wine??
The talk of New Year Resolutions released a torrent of pent up emotion from our middle daughter who has been battling homesickness since our arrival. Where her Mummy & Daddy only produced more tears and stored fears, finally her older sister has broken into the overwhelming feelings.... we have tiptoed out to leave R serenading with lullabies on her ukulele.
So emotionally exhausted we bid farewell to the year that has set us off on this adventure. This time last year, our plan was a mere seed of an idea. Has it been worth it, yes, I think, despite these upsets.....at least I hope she won't be having therapy for it in years to come. Those of you who know the hours of angst I put into parenting will be reassured that these upsets are no different from home, just directed in a different way. Perhaps surprisingly, PP is proving easier here.
What has New Years Eve surmounted to today? A pop into the hospital, a check at the post office for mail (none), a request for more electricity, the unpacking from our Christmas holiday, the anticipation of more water supplies (disappointingly none, following from last weeks full tank), the usual round of meal preparations, finding of pants, tidying of stuff, mediation of bickering, playing of games.....life. We have covered many topics in our usual rounds of discussions....civil war, the meaning of life, how do bats give birth (they have to catch their babies before they fall to the ground), why are we here in Muheza, where to go at the weekend....
Which leaves me mulling at the end of the day, at the end of the year on the meaning of life. Many people have taught me many things, and I know I'll still be figuring it out on the last day of my life. My conclusions so far: we are too egotistical to think we have any meaning; the meaning can be whatever you choose it to be; life is precious, short and until you accept what you have you will forever be searching for what you have not; choose love; share this planet wisely; treat others as you wish to be treated yourself; surround yourself with people who hold the mirror up and help you be the best of you. So thank you to all you wonderful people who have made me who I am, and continue to tirelessly support, listen, laugh and share so much love. 2019 brings the remainder of my 40th year...may the adventure continue....