Sweet nectarine… you are such a refreshing and rare treat. I’m so thankful for stores that ship in “exotic” fruits such as yourself. You’re very photogenic too, aren’t you.

4th of July… although we find ourselves living in another country for the 4th year in a row, we are proud to be Americans! We will sport our patriotic colors, hang our flag, and eat a grilled hamburger {on Saturday, at the US Embassy party}. We will certainly miss your parades, cookouts with family, and the fireworks.

Baby niece… welcome to the world! You’re a little firecracker baby, arriving on the 4th. We can’t wait to hear your name and see your picture. Love, Aunt Jenn & Uncle Shawn.

Baobab trees… you are so interesting to look at. I love your strange branches, bending every which way, your large gray trunk firmly rooted in the sand, with little birds decorating the tops of your branches.

Policeman who stopped us just to ask if we were lost… no, we’re not. But thanks for asking. {From the experience of Hélène}

Guy wearing a bright orange shirt with a jack-o’-lantern on it… a little anxious for fall festivities, are we?

Goat stuck inside of a large flour sack, strapped to the top of a taxi… life must be miserable for you right now. At least they left your head out of the sack, right? I guess there’s always a bright side. Somewhere.

Cotton candy… how hilarious and ever-so-fitting that you’re called “Grandpa’s Beard” in French. *Chuckles*

80-year-old barefeet seen in the village…  how many kilometers have you covered in your day? How many paths have you walked? I’m sure the road has been long, but hopefully there are have been some happy memories along the way.

Street vendor selling a jump rope, a game of Scrabble, a pack of razors, a brown table lamp and a knee brace… we’re good for today. Thanks though.

Happy 4th festivities!

s&j in Senegal