A Nepali Thanksgiving

I've just spent 25 days on the trekking trails of the Nepali Himalaya. One in the Annapurna Region with Teo getting lost in conversation, over streams and under towering peaks and creaking glaciars. The second with Lynne laughing over our "guide/porter" and exchanging travel stories while walking next to yak herds in the Helambu/Langtang region. Both heart-breakingly beautiful in their own right.

The connections and laughs with friends (wondering if we would find out our new president on the trail/ "Are you a yak?" "I think so.") were just as memorable as the stunning scenery. I was so excited to be here and see what my parents had seen 30yrs ago that I recruited these 2 before I'd left the US, Teo even a few years before that! Even with such great company on the trail, there was a lot of down time to contemplate our circumstances. Or maybe we just stopped talking on the uphills, being too winded :) Something I thought a lot about was just how much I have to be thankful for.

I'm thankful for all the friends, old and new, who have made this experience so beautiful.

I'm thankful for the mental and physical health that have allowed me to continue so strongly.

I'm thankful for finding meditation when my energy levels needed a boost and coming away with an added perk: the realization that I'm in charge of my own happiness and then actualizing it.

I'm thankful for the people who have loved me and have taught me how to love and be loved :)

I'm thankful for Obama winning the presidency!!

I'm thankful for the promise of a beautiful future while enjoying an even more stunning present.

I'm thankful for baby wipes and q-tips.

I'm thankful for my dodgy New Balances holding up for 3 1/2 weeks after my boots missed their flight across a few continents and friends who lend their down sleeping bags!!

I'm thankful you are in my life :)

Happy Thanksgiving from Kathmandu. Namaste