As the year grew slowly to a close and we celebrated Christmas and the New Year, it dawned on me that it was over a year since we had been in Maun applying for work permits. Whilst New Year’s Eve arrived and many people rejoiced at good-riddance to a horrid year, I marvelled at how great the year had been to me. 2017 had not only given me a new job, but a new life in a new country surrounded by a new family. It gave me new experiences and created so many memories, from seeing my first penguin to cooking for the 43^rd President of America. It bought the end to a relationship but then unexpectedly opened the doors to another. I can’t say it has been an easy year, learning the ropes of a new job, in a different culture has been an experience. It definitely seemed at times that the forces that be, wait for you to be the furthest from your comfort zone before they put you to the test – hurtling as many obstacles at you as possible and waiting to see whether you will come out the other side. It has been hard work and at many times gruelling, but it has been amazing and I’m sure it’s only going to get better.

31.12.17