last month. eight months. notables.

Last year.

Managed to dissuade a stranger at staging by saying “I hope he writes good letters.”

I assume he was illiterate, as she disappeared a half hour later. Hope he was worth it.

Aided and abetted by a silk dress in a stolen moment in a stable.

Thank you, M—, I would have never paid that much for a dress shopping on my own.

Later, finding out dress was inside out... Thank you S—, I may never have noticed.

Survived a venomous snake in my bedroom.

Best friend fell in love. Finally.

Last month.

Recognizing enough Rukwangali to know someone was suggesting tutoring via pillow talk.

Finding someone who shares my circle of friends from Chicago living in Namibia?!

Hoba meteorite thanks to P— L—.

Last week.

A conversation, aided by Goats Do Roam

H: Oh, my god. I forgot to do my taxes. Shit, do you still have to file yours?

E: Hmm?

H: Did you have a job before Peace Corps?

E: Hey, I have experience, Hope.

H: That’s not what I’m asking E—. Did you file your taxes?

E: I have experience!

H: You’re drunk aren’t you?!

Saw a hippo in the wild for the first time.

Saw a hippo defecate for the first time.

Walked seven miles.

Sang I’m Gonna Be (500 miles) while doing it.

Da da lat da Da da lat da Da da lat da Da da lat da

Today.

Witnessed a giant armored cricket brave a nest of fire ants.

Watched him shake ‘em loose like a dog trying to shake rain off its fur.

Its the small things, really.
Eighteen months ahead to go.