Here's to 2017! 

For most of those who know me pretty well, 2016 has not been the kindest of years to me. Had it not been for the most amazing visit from my Mom over the summer, I sometimes wonder how I would have made it. This isn't to say that I'm not thankful for the year I've had. Every year that passes is a blessing, and this one is no exception. Rather than a year of ease and good times, I was able to learn how to make it through more difficult times, which is always amplified when you're living abroad, away from the ones that you love the most. But I made it, it's 2017! And as cheesy as it can sound a new year really gives me a new way to reset and rebuild. I'm ready to keep the goals pushing forward and capitalize on all that I have learned. So I celebrate new beginnings, happy endings and future blessings. Bring it on! 

So the most exciting part of this year by far was my Mom's visit in July/August. For those who don't know my mom, this was a pretty big deal. Rwanda is FAR and for someone like my mom who has never left the US, this is a huge first travel. If that's not love, I don't know what is! We had the best of times together and being able to show her what my life is like was a huge blessing.