Fiji Gratitude #17 - I am grateful for community living. I *love* having people around as I go about my day - joking, laughing, singing, talking - so much fun and so many opportunities for connection. Feels like the way it's supposed to be...
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Fiji Gratitude #18

I am grateful for Fijian traditions that bring comfort & strengthen community. Today was a heavy day for Jimmy - mourning the recent death of his grandpa & also 7th anniversary of his dad's death. When a death happens in Fiji, the men gather around the tanoa, drink grog, & tell stories. So this eve, Tui Mali (chief), Jone,Tale, & Marau joined Jimmy in honoring his dad & grandpa in this way.
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Fiji Gratitude #19

I am grateful for the broadened perspective living here has given my children. Living among an international tribe has taught them to be comfortable & respectful of many cultures & personalities. I love that they have a united view of the world - they are World citizens, not just US citizens.The people we've lived w/ are amazing role models - people of all ages who travel the world, seeking, learning, & sharing.
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Fiji Gratitude #20

I am grateful for the sound of the heavy rain all around me, cocooning me as I drift off to sleep tonight all snug, dry, and cozy in my bed. After a couple weeks of teasing sprinkles and light showers, we now have the first substantial rainfall since early July. Means water tanks will be full and waterfall shower wil be running. So happy to have the waterfall once again before we leave!
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Fiji Gratitude #21

I am grateful for the warmth of friendship and love we have found in our Fijian family. Their open hearted affection, love of laughter, & love of family have changed me - those things are now a part of me. As days inch closer to our leaving, the sadness gets heavier & tears have started to flow from both sides - I'm really gonna miss them. Hoping it's not really goodbye, but just see ya later...
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Fiji Gratitude #22

I am grateful for the beauty of the sea and it's creatures. This past year I've swam with countless amazingly colorful fish, eels, squid, octopus, jellyfish, sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, & more. Also seen whales & pod of dolphins up close. Today, I lead most amazing reef trip yet-water so warm and clear, amazing coral formations, sharks, rays, eel, new to me fish. Blessed am I...
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Today is a very special day...

...celebrating 12 years of being a mama and the birth of one very remarkable kid! Happy 12th, Lucas - I am grateful for you and all the lessons being your mama has taught me. Your open heart, inquisitive mind, and determined spirit touch and inspire me in ways I struggle to express w/ just words. You should be pround of the young man you are growing up to be - I am! I love you, more!
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