Laughter is infectious.

(i spy so many happy faces).

For the past few months I have spent alot of time thinking about the influence we human beings have on one another. Whether we like it or not, we give off an energy and affect the environment in which we are in. I have noticed so many times, especially at work, how it only takes 1 persons negative outlook to impact the entire group. If one person is feeling tired, angry or upset, it can heavily affect the attitude of people he is surrounded by, and thus the environment and the quality of the work that is being done. I truly think that we must be aware of this capability that we have to deeply impact one another, and as a result, take responsibility for this incredible power that we possess. What a gift it is that by possessing a positive and loving attitude we can bring a smile to the faces surrounding us.  Laughter is infectious, and it is truly wonderful that by causing someone to laugh you can assist in creating a space that is warm, positive and loving. So even if I am having a bad day, I still do my best to smile and laugh with the people I spend time with. Having this approach applies not only when you are with your friends, but also with your co-workers and family as well. An uplifting environment is conducive to building healthy and strong relationships with people as well as a space for work to be done in a more productive and efficient manner.

Last Masada date.

1. I have grown to love having fresh flowers around to light up a room.  It only takes one bright little flower in an old honey jar turned vase to change the energy and vibe of a home.
2. T spent 3 nights this week over at my place in Haifa and it was wonderful. We also went on one final date to Masada and it was perfect.
3. Call me a grandma, but Friday night is the perfect night to do laundry. It is wonderful crossing it off my to-do list and having one less thing to think about having to do on Sunday.

Farewell sister.

1. The first photo is currently my desktop background. There is no place else I would rather be.

2. The last photo is of my dear sister S who left for Brazil yesterday. Her presence is already missed. She was my first flatmate here and after only a month of living with her it felt like we had known one another for all our lives. Her loving heart made me feel instantly at home and she truly is, and will forever be, a member of my family.

3. Nawruz is next week exactly and I could not be more excited.

4. I have officially made a list of things I want to do before I leave here. Although I am excited to go home I know the second I am there I will desperately dream of coming back. 

5. One thing I have learned to value since being here is the beauty in simplicity. It is almost silly how excited I am to go home and get rid of EVERYTHING I do not need or use.

Angels.

1. Some things in life happen so incredibly seamlessly that it impossible not to believe that they are spiritually assisted by the angels above. My grandfather, Baba Enayat, and great grandmother, Madar, are my sweet sweet angels and are often on mind. I am truly truly grateful for having been given a beautiful and unexpected gift that brings so much warmth and light into my life. When I sit and think about it I am moved to tears of gratitude and joy.
2. This period of my life is truly spectacular. Everything feels like a dream.
3. My parents are officially visiting late April. I could not be more excited!
4. It is amazing what I have been given when I have chosen to open my heart and put all my trust and faith in God. Open your heart.

February Happenings.

I have not been taking many photos lately, and this truly has to change. I have been back in Haifa for about a month and a half now and Bahji already seems like a far off dream. The past few weeks have flown by and been have full of change and many challenging tests, or in other words, opportunities for personal growth and detachment.

1. Ayyam-i-ha party.

2. Hatzianout street.

3. C and I reading about the fast.

4. My sisters surprise bridal shower. She leaves me this Tuesday to head back to Brazil and get married. I am so happy for her and grateful to have met her. She was the first real friend I made here and I will never forget our late night chats on life, love and our service.

5. M waiting for bus 23.

Service in Bahji.

The end of a beautiful beautiful chapter.

Roses in Bahji.

1. I am moving back to Haifa on Saturday. I am excited to head back but saying goodbye to this chapter of my service will be a challenge. 

2. I am surrounded by such beautiful people. They blow me away.

3. My brother came and went and it was truly lovely. My baby brother is truly grown up.

4. My heart has never been so full of joy, excitement and peace.