Ngijabula!

...means "I am happy!"
An email sent last week got me thinking about my level of happiness out here. Although I mostly write about depressing things here, the truth is that there are times here that I am unexplainably and unbelievably happy. Just absolutely elated. And it is the simple things that really please me.
Like the way Nokubonga giggles uncontrollably when you play "Peek-a-boo" with her. The way Wandele runs to the bathtub in the morning all smelly and dirty, because he just can't wait to get in. The way Longile says "Rrrrrrrrrrrrresh." The way Nalede always runs up to me to play those patticake games. The way Sphewe laughs and smiles and does all sorts of silly crazy things. Even the way Lout tickles me. And the way Slindile is so shy. How much the older kids love Tai Bo and how cute they are when we're at the gym together! The way Mthobi runs around in boots that are way to big for him. The way Xoliswa always takes my watch when I get there, but runs to the car chasing me when I have forgotten it. The way Snethemba always steals my sweater. Even the way Sne throws tantrums and cries and looks so cute at the same time. How Peaceful isn't peaceful at all! The way Mbali plays that silly ball hitting game. Even the way Simphewe can be so in need of love and affection despite what she may say. How happy Angel and Sindisiwe (Zanele's sisters) are when I see them or bring them anything. How Mabongi smiles when you come into her room. How Nsiki cried when she was discharged -- happy she was leaving, but sad to be leaving me behind. How Lindiwe is always so full of life even if she is so depressed on the inside.
I love waking up in the morning here. I sleep better, I feel better, and I live better here...as excited as I am to come home, I will be so sad to leave.

Happy Raksha Bhandhan to all my brothers.

A huge shoutout to Pratik and Sofi who mailed me a beautiful birthday card!!!

No one has phoned in a while, so that's it!