On the 10th day of October last year, I made a list of 10 things that made/make me happy.  Just a few minutes ago, I looked down at the date-box on my computer.  I was reminded that 10/10 has rolled around again and I felt inspired to continue this new tradition.  So, in no particular order, I give you “My Top Ten on 10/10” for 2013.

1. My little radios.  Whether I’m at home here in Uganda or in San Diego (or most anywhere in between), I stay connected to the BBC and NPR–and therefore connected to a much bigger world than my occasional-isolation might otherwise allow.
2. The emails and texts I have received from my kids, asking that we be sure to get quality time before I leave Uganda this time.
3. Quiet.
4. Noise.
5. That I have spent my life surrounded by fire extinguishers–and have never [yet] had to use one.
6. Deciding that I need to make sure I know how to use a fire extinguisher.
7. Friends who are kind, generous, caring, needy, vulnerable, strong, carefree–and real.
8. Authenticity.
9. Flowers.
10. My kids.