2010: the year I liberated myself

At the beginning of this week, I embarked on a trip that will take me to the end of 2010 and into 2011. In the midst of traveling and catching up with old friends, I’m taking a moment to think back on this year.

2010 is the year I liberated myself.

I spent January and February in Southern California, and reacquainted myself with my beloved city, Los Angeles. I welcomed my quarter-century by spending a night filled with art and culture. I soaked up a ton of quality time with my family. As March approached, I (reluctantly) kicked off my heels and packed up my personal possessions. I boarded an airplane that would take me halfway around the world.

March to the present: My Peace Corps service and what a journey its been. There’s so much that can be summed up but frankly, there’s no need to. I’ve documented most if not all of 2010’s major milestones in my blog.

2010 showed me that I’m capable of growing, healing, learning, and loving. I’m enamored with life. I love this newfound liberty and I accept the responsibilities that come with it.

Peace Corps service is, for me, a transformation in progress. I look forward to what 2011 has in store for me.

Happy holidays (and safe travels) to all!

Fes for a day, adrenaline for the night ride to Erfoud

Food. Productive at Café Clock. More food. Boarded an overnight bus to Erfoud.

My friend since college arrived in Fes tonight. I held up the CTM bus for a good 10-15 minutes so that my friend wouldn’t miss it because there wasn’t a plan B if he arrived late. In the nick of time, he arrives at the station and hops on the bus. lHamdullah!!!

Chefchaouen to Fes

Man at Kasbah said I should be relocated to Chefchaouen to work because I speak Arabic (sort of), understand Spanish, and speak English.

I’d be happy to switch sites. Thoughts, PC/Morocco?

I bid farewell to Chefchaouen (the beauty, the tranquility) and make my way to Fes.

Chefchaouen: iEat, all in a day

Spanish mosque “ruins” are not ruins at all. Beautiful!

Bean soup breakfast

Shrimp sandwich

Candied nuts

Clementines

2 bags of chips

2 glasses of Moroccan tea

Harira and shebeckia

Tangier to Chefchaouen

Tangier to Chefchaouen.

CTM: 40dh

Accommodation: Hotel Yasmina. 175dhs per night for two people. Includes shower (not sure about availability of hot water). Inside medina. Friendly staff. Convenient.