EJADA

I know you might be wondering why I strayed from my usual posts—but let’s face it, life can get a little routine sometimes. And part of healthy living, at least in my book, comes down to the 4 F’s: Family, Food, Friends, and Faith.

Because life isn’t just about checking boxes or staying on track. It’s about embracing the detours, the surprises, and the stories that make it all worthwhile.

This moment is a reminder that joy lives in the unexpected, and that sharing it is part of the journey.

🌍 My Journey to The Gambia

For those who don’t know, I had the incredible opportunity to visit The Gambia, Africa—all thanks to my amazing daughter, who generously financed my round-trip fare and treated me to unforgettable experiences.

We explored the Bijilo Monkey Park, where playful green monkeys and shy red colobus monkeys greeted us among towering baobabs and palm trees. Then came the Kachikally Crocodile Pool, a sacred site where my daughter and her husband actually touched a real crocodile—yes, really!

The highlight? A mini safari in Senegal at the Fathala Wildlife Reserve. We crossed the border via the Banjul–Barra ferry, which was much taller than I expected. That’s when I learned something new about myself: I can get seasick!

From monkeys to crocodiles to majestic safari animals, this trip was a whirlwind of nature, culture, and discovery. I’m beyond grateful to my daughter for making it all possible.

I spent a month in The Gambia, and honestly—it wasn’t long enough. I loved every moment. The adventure was unforgettable, and it’s now one of the incredible experiences my daughter has made sure I could scratch off my living list.

And let’s not forget the Attaya tea my son-in-law brewed each evening. It wasn’t just tea—it was a ritual, one he took great pride in sharing. The slow preparation, the careful pouring, the rich foam rising in the glass—it was all part of a tradition that speaks to connection, patience, and hospitality.

Watching him prepare it was like witnessing a quiet ceremony, a moment where time slowed down and stories flowed freely. In The Gambia, Attaya is more than a drink—it’s a way of life. And I’m grateful to have been part of that rhythm, even for a little while.

🍵 What Is Attaya?

• Made from Chinese Gunpowder Green Tea
• Brewed with lots of sugar, sometimes with mint leaves
• Served in three rounds, each symbolizing a different kind of love:
  • First cup: Mother’s love
  • Second cup: Friendship, I never made it past the second cup because it is strong and sweet.
  • Third cup: Romantic love

🫖 The Ritual

• Typically prepared by young men in public spaces or homes
• Tea is poured back and forth between cups and kettle to create a rich foam
• The ceremony can last up to three hours, fostering conversation and connection

Attaya isn’t just popular in The Gambia—it’s also cherished in neighboring countries like Senegal and Sierra Leone. It’s a symbol of hospitality, bonding, and daily rhythm.

✨ Scratching Off My Living List

I spent a month in The Gambia, and honestly—it wasn’t long enough. I loved every moment. The adventure was unforgettable, and it’s now one of the incredible experiences my daughter has made sure I could scratch off my living list.

Yes, I call it a living list—because “bucket list” sounds so final. What happens after you’ve done everything on your bucket list? I believe life should be a continuous journey of discovery, not a countdown. My living list is about embracing the now, celebrating the possible, and staying open to whatever comes next.

From monkey parks to crocodile pools, from ferries that taught me I can get seasick to safaris that made me feel alive—this trip was a gift. And I’m so grateful.

So here’s to the detours, the discoveries, and the moments that remind us what it means to truly live. Stay healthy and stay open to life. 💫