Wednesday 27 June 2012
Week 13 - Photos
Week 13 - 24.6.12
Happy Birthday to me! Yeah I have just turned 39. OMG! Have had a fun filled day being spoiled rotten. NOT! More on that later......
The school holidays started this week. I must say it is nice not having to rush around getting Tom ready for school in the mornings. If only they would sleep in and let me as well. These next few weeks will be interesting as a lot of people are heading out on break and so there won't be many kids around to play with.
I invited the new family over for morning tea on Monday (minus husband of course as he was working). Krissy and family have come from Queensland. They have a 5yr old boy, Malakye and a 2yr old girl Kaelyn. The kids hit it off straight away, which is wonderful. They only live a couple of houses away which is great as I am sure we will be spending a lot of time together.
Tuesday saw me start a new fitness regime. I was out walking and came across a couple of new girls I had not met before. One is just visiting, but the other, Kat, walks every day to the Lodge and back. This is about 8km. So I now join her in the mornings, and boy does she keep me on my toes as she is a fast walker. It is great to get out and walk without the kids and I am feeling better for doing it.
We had a scare on Wednesday. The kids were out playing and a group of 3 girls went past and asked them to go with them. One of the younger boys decided to go. Luckily, Malakye came to get me and so I was able to intervene. The kids have all been made aware of 'stranger danger' now. Due to the school holidays and an increasing population in the town, there are a lot of people around at the moment. Then on Thursday, the same little boy and another, decided to hide in a cupboard in one of their houses. They did not come out when called and so we were out searching and calling for them. Again, there was another talk with the kids. It is great the freedom the kids have, but we still need to make sure that they are aware of certain dangers here, just like back home.
Thursday night was our neighbours last night in their house. Lachie is now down the other end of the rental estate. It does not seem the same without them there. Brendan is staying on doing FIFO and Megan and the kids are going back to Oz. Thus, he cannot stay in a home for a family and has to move into single quarters. Unfortunately, they leave just after Laura's birthday and we are going to miss them so much. They have become wonderful friends.
On Friday out on our walk, instead of turning back at the lodge we decide to do the circle route which I had not done before. It is a little bit longer of a walk, but lovely. The track takes you down by the dam and along the side for a while. It was wonderful, as there were many animal prints along the path. Apparently there are baboon, civet, wild dog, jackal and a leopard has been spotted once or twice. It's great to see the prints as it makes you feel like you really are living in the middle of Africa. This afternoon, I had Friday drinks at my place. It was a small group but lovely.
Saturday saw Gryffyd turn 3 and so we went to his party in the afternoon. Unfortunately, Phil had to work today so it was just the kids and I that went. One of the good things about living in a site like this, is that a firetruck was organised to turn up, so that the kids could have a look and a play. Then they got the fire hose out with some bubble mix and the kids were able to do a 'splash'n'slide'. Tom stood by and watched as Laura stripped down to undies and had a go. They had a good time.
Sunday 24th June. Today is my birthday. Phil is working. Laura is sick again and so I have been up with her last night and then she was up at 6am! So I did not get my sleep in or my breakfast in bed. Instead, I had yelling and screaming as I made them pancakes. The fighting continued throughout the morning.The kids did help me make my birthday cake. However I am not too sure if the mess and fighting between them made it worthwhile. Thankfully, I was able to get Laura down for a sleep, but then Tom was complaining that there was no-one to play with. I tried to get him to chill out so I could rest, but no such luck. I started to get dinner ready and thankfully, Phil turned up in time to take over. So I was then able to get a little bit of relax time to myself, with a glass of Amarula under the larpa. A couple of things that did make my day today were some presents from the in laws and everyone's well wishes on Facebook.
Thanks to everyone who sent me a message, it really meant a lot. I think about you all quite often. xx
The school holidays started this week. I must say it is nice not having to rush around getting Tom ready for school in the mornings. If only they would sleep in and let me as well. These next few weeks will be interesting as a lot of people are heading out on break and so there won't be many kids around to play with.
I invited the new family over for morning tea on Monday (minus husband of course as he was working). Krissy and family have come from Queensland. They have a 5yr old boy, Malakye and a 2yr old girl Kaelyn. The kids hit it off straight away, which is wonderful. They only live a couple of houses away which is great as I am sure we will be spending a lot of time together.
Tuesday saw me start a new fitness regime. I was out walking and came across a couple of new girls I had not met before. One is just visiting, but the other, Kat, walks every day to the Lodge and back. This is about 8km. So I now join her in the mornings, and boy does she keep me on my toes as she is a fast walker. It is great to get out and walk without the kids and I am feeling better for doing it.
We had a scare on Wednesday. The kids were out playing and a group of 3 girls went past and asked them to go with them. One of the younger boys decided to go. Luckily, Malakye came to get me and so I was able to intervene. The kids have all been made aware of 'stranger danger' now. Due to the school holidays and an increasing population in the town, there are a lot of people around at the moment. Then on Thursday, the same little boy and another, decided to hide in a cupboard in one of their houses. They did not come out when called and so we were out searching and calling for them. Again, there was another talk with the kids. It is great the freedom the kids have, but we still need to make sure that they are aware of certain dangers here, just like back home.
Thursday night was our neighbours last night in their house. Lachie is now down the other end of the rental estate. It does not seem the same without them there. Brendan is staying on doing FIFO and Megan and the kids are going back to Oz. Thus, he cannot stay in a home for a family and has to move into single quarters. Unfortunately, they leave just after Laura's birthday and we are going to miss them so much. They have become wonderful friends.
On Friday out on our walk, instead of turning back at the lodge we decide to do the circle route which I had not done before. It is a little bit longer of a walk, but lovely. The track takes you down by the dam and along the side for a while. It was wonderful, as there were many animal prints along the path. Apparently there are baboon, civet, wild dog, jackal and a leopard has been spotted once or twice. It's great to see the prints as it makes you feel like you really are living in the middle of Africa. This afternoon, I had Friday drinks at my place. It was a small group but lovely.
Saturday saw Gryffyd turn 3 and so we went to his party in the afternoon. Unfortunately, Phil had to work today so it was just the kids and I that went. One of the good things about living in a site like this, is that a firetruck was organised to turn up, so that the kids could have a look and a play. Then they got the fire hose out with some bubble mix and the kids were able to do a 'splash'n'slide'. Tom stood by and watched as Laura stripped down to undies and had a go. They had a good time.
Sunday 24th June. Today is my birthday. Phil is working. Laura is sick again and so I have been up with her last night and then she was up at 6am! So I did not get my sleep in or my breakfast in bed. Instead, I had yelling and screaming as I made them pancakes. The fighting continued throughout the morning.The kids did help me make my birthday cake. However I am not too sure if the mess and fighting between them made it worthwhile. Thankfully, I was able to get Laura down for a sleep, but then Tom was complaining that there was no-one to play with. I tried to get him to chill out so I could rest, but no such luck. I started to get dinner ready and thankfully, Phil turned up in time to take over. So I was then able to get a little bit of relax time to myself, with a glass of Amarula under the larpa. A couple of things that did make my day today were some presents from the in laws and everyone's well wishes on Facebook.
Thanks to everyone who sent me a message, it really meant a lot. I think about you all quite often. xx
Sunday 17 June 2012
Week 12 - Photos
Week 12 - 17.6.12
Our new house keeper started this week. Her name is Carol and she is the 9th child out of 11. It feels so strange having someone in the house cleaning, whilst Laura and I do our own things.I can't wait until Laura is comfortable with her, so I can go out for a jog. The house has never looked cleaner. Every day she comes in and makes the beds, does the dishes, cleans the floor, does the washing and ironing, cleans the bathrooms and anything else she can think of. I have never felt more spoilt. I have so much time on my hands in the mornings now. If only my sewing machine and all of my cake decorating things were here!
House keepers and gardeners are not a new concept for the South African's here. Most of them are brought up with having one or more of each, in every household. For us Australian's, it certainly takes a bit to get use to. I am so use to doing it all myself, that I find it hard to ask someone to do something for me, that I can do for myself. My friend Michelle (South African) says I should enjoy it while I can and sit back and relax. I will in time, but for now it is an adjustment. I can hear you all say 'oh poor Trish', but believe me it does make me feel uncomfortable. I keep telling myself, that by employing Carol, we are helping her get to college in the one way that we can. It goes the same for our gardener. Clement has 7 children and a wife, plus others to support in his family. So the less I do in the garden, the more time he spends here getting paid.
Tuesday we received a travel warning. We were not allowed to go out onto the main road. Unfortunately, a contractor from the mine, had hit a 10 year old girl who ran onto the road in front of him, and she died later in hospital. Devastating for all involved. Unfortunately, this happens a lot here. The children don't know the road rules of stopping to look both ways, and the cars travel way too fast at times. Add the fact, that the tall grass comes to the edge of the road and you are bound to get injuries and deaths. Such a tragedy.
On Wednesday night a new family arrived. A few of us were lined up to make their dinner, so when I saw them arrive I went over to say hello and dropped of the bread and snacks I had made for them. They have a 5 year old boy and a 2 year old girl. I will catch up with them properly later as it takes a couple of days here to get your bearings. I want to let them settle before the twenty questions.Lol.
Our first load of dirt arrived on Wednesday. I can't say it is the best top soil I have ever seen and people keep telling us how 'crap' it is, but it is the best we can get. Thursday saw the next load. Now we have this massive pile of dirt to move around the garden! Can't wait. There are some things that I just have to help with, as I feel too guilty to expect someone to do this by themselves.
Thursday I helped out at Tom's school. Miss Jo has told me that Tom has improved so much since he has been here. She also said that he has started to overtake some of the kids that have been going to school a lot longer than him. I can definitely see the improvement in his colouring and cutting skills. He got his first report card on Friday and I am really proud of his achievements.
Friday was the last day of school for the term and also Lachlan's last day. Tom now know's that Lachie is leaving and has been asking who will be his friend then. Quite sad really. I only hope that these new families moving in, have boys that Tom will get along with. I also think Laura will be quite sad to see Lachie go, as the two seem to be a bit of an item these days. Laura kissed his hand on Friday and Phil over heard them
talking marriage and rings! They were seen cuddling in the cubby house on Saturday. Probably more hugging coming from Laura, but Lachie wasn't pushing her away. Lol.
On Saturday, Phil and I helped Clement in the garden. We are making some garden beds around the Larpa. So while Phil shoveled the dirt, I pick axed the soil. Never, ever again!!! I was in tears last night from the pain. I think I must have pinched a nerve in my shoulder as the pain in my left arm was excruciating. Our pick ax has a metal handle and as the dirt is so hard, I think all the vibrations went right up into my arms. Now this is a job, I will let Clement do in the future, he is so strong. Even a bottle of wine did not help. Lol.
We had our first fire last night in the fire pit. It was so relaxing sitting around the fire as the sun set. The air was starting to chill and the fire was so peaceful to watch. Dad, you would love it here. I could imagine you and Phil sitting around the fire with a scotch. Every day I think to myself, just how lucky we are to be here enjoying this life. I am so glad we came and want to stay for a while yet.
Today has been a quiet day. We went for a walk to the golf club park and had a play. We then came home to coffee under the Larpa. The kids have been playing in the massive dirt pile and getting filthy. I swear their feet now have dirt ingrained in them, that will just not wash out. At least they are outside playing and having fun! It is nearly 3pm, so I may just have to grab a glass of wine and head back out to the Larpa! It really is a hard life here. The weather each day is just perfect, 25 degrees most days and sunshine. Mind you, I have not been here for all the seasons yet, and I am told it gets very hot. First though, we have to make it through July, which apparently is the coldest month. However, I think Forbes, Adelaide, Melbourne and Launceston, might just be a tad cold at the moment. Am I right?
I think I hear the wine and the Larpa calling...Bye.
House keepers and gardeners are not a new concept for the South African's here. Most of them are brought up with having one or more of each, in every household. For us Australian's, it certainly takes a bit to get use to. I am so use to doing it all myself, that I find it hard to ask someone to do something for me, that I can do for myself. My friend Michelle (South African) says I should enjoy it while I can and sit back and relax. I will in time, but for now it is an adjustment. I can hear you all say 'oh poor Trish', but believe me it does make me feel uncomfortable. I keep telling myself, that by employing Carol, we are helping her get to college in the one way that we can. It goes the same for our gardener. Clement has 7 children and a wife, plus others to support in his family. So the less I do in the garden, the more time he spends here getting paid.
Tuesday we received a travel warning. We were not allowed to go out onto the main road. Unfortunately, a contractor from the mine, had hit a 10 year old girl who ran onto the road in front of him, and she died later in hospital. Devastating for all involved. Unfortunately, this happens a lot here. The children don't know the road rules of stopping to look both ways, and the cars travel way too fast at times. Add the fact, that the tall grass comes to the edge of the road and you are bound to get injuries and deaths. Such a tragedy.
On Wednesday night a new family arrived. A few of us were lined up to make their dinner, so when I saw them arrive I went over to say hello and dropped of the bread and snacks I had made for them. They have a 5 year old boy and a 2 year old girl. I will catch up with them properly later as it takes a couple of days here to get your bearings. I want to let them settle before the twenty questions.Lol.
Our first load of dirt arrived on Wednesday. I can't say it is the best top soil I have ever seen and people keep telling us how 'crap' it is, but it is the best we can get. Thursday saw the next load. Now we have this massive pile of dirt to move around the garden! Can't wait. There are some things that I just have to help with, as I feel too guilty to expect someone to do this by themselves.
Thursday I helped out at Tom's school. Miss Jo has told me that Tom has improved so much since he has been here. She also said that he has started to overtake some of the kids that have been going to school a lot longer than him. I can definitely see the improvement in his colouring and cutting skills. He got his first report card on Friday and I am really proud of his achievements.
Friday was the last day of school for the term and also Lachlan's last day. Tom now know's that Lachie is leaving and has been asking who will be his friend then. Quite sad really. I only hope that these new families moving in, have boys that Tom will get along with. I also think Laura will be quite sad to see Lachie go, as the two seem to be a bit of an item these days. Laura kissed his hand on Friday and Phil over heard them
talking marriage and rings! They were seen cuddling in the cubby house on Saturday. Probably more hugging coming from Laura, but Lachie wasn't pushing her away. Lol.
On Saturday, Phil and I helped Clement in the garden. We are making some garden beds around the Larpa. So while Phil shoveled the dirt, I pick axed the soil. Never, ever again!!! I was in tears last night from the pain. I think I must have pinched a nerve in my shoulder as the pain in my left arm was excruciating. Our pick ax has a metal handle and as the dirt is so hard, I think all the vibrations went right up into my arms. Now this is a job, I will let Clement do in the future, he is so strong. Even a bottle of wine did not help. Lol.
We had our first fire last night in the fire pit. It was so relaxing sitting around the fire as the sun set. The air was starting to chill and the fire was so peaceful to watch. Dad, you would love it here. I could imagine you and Phil sitting around the fire with a scotch. Every day I think to myself, just how lucky we are to be here enjoying this life. I am so glad we came and want to stay for a while yet.
Today has been a quiet day. We went for a walk to the golf club park and had a play. We then came home to coffee under the Larpa. The kids have been playing in the massive dirt pile and getting filthy. I swear their feet now have dirt ingrained in them, that will just not wash out. At least they are outside playing and having fun! It is nearly 3pm, so I may just have to grab a glass of wine and head back out to the Larpa! It really is a hard life here. The weather each day is just perfect, 25 degrees most days and sunshine. Mind you, I have not been here for all the seasons yet, and I am told it gets very hot. First though, we have to make it through July, which apparently is the coldest month. However, I think Forbes, Adelaide, Melbourne and Launceston, might just be a tad cold at the moment. Am I right?
I think I hear the wine and the Larpa calling...Bye.
Monday 11 June 2012
Week 11 - 10.6.12
I have had some beautiful 'moments' this week. The first was on Tuesday night as I drove our gardener Clement, and Mukwato from next door home. On the way back from Manyama I saw a magnificent full moon rising. It was just glorious watching the moon rise a beautiful shade of orange, as it rose up above the tree line. Unfortunately, I was unable to watch it too closely as I also had to watch the road for cyclists, pedestrians and potholes! As this was my first time driving at night here, I was also trying to be extra careful. There are no street lights and no-one has reflector lights or jackets on and when the cars come at you with full beams, it can be quite dangerous. We are not meant to be off site at night driving for this exact reason.
The next was watching Tom and Laura wash each others back in the bath, before he then gave her a shoulder massage. At times they can be so loving towards each other, it just melts my heart. Why can't these moments last longer??????
The last was tonight, as I sat under the Larpa drinking my glass of Armarula. The sun was going down behind the trees, throwing out a beautiful golden light over everything. The bugs glowing as the sun hit their wings. The temperature was just perfect, even at 5pm and the music coming from up the road truly African. A real drum beat and the most beautiful sounding voices. I really love these moments. We are so lucky to be here experiencing this.
The rest of the week passed by quickly enough. I helped out at the school on Tuesday, as one of the other Mum's could not get a babysitter, as her house help had not turned up for work. Then on Wednesday, I had some of the younger kids over whilst Tom was at school. I also managed to get some more cake cooking in. I made some delicious caramel and apple muffins. These may be my favourite so far.
On Thursday a friend dropped in for coffee and on Friday we headed to Solwezi. As Phil worked last weekend, he took Friday off. We were able to get quite a bit done, before Laura came down sick yet again! So off to the clinic we went again on Saturday. This time we had her checked for Malaria, as we did not think it could be tonsilitis again so soon. So she screamed blue murder, as the technician pricked her thumb and drew some blood for testing. Thankfully, no malaria, but again her tonsils are inflamed. We are going to try to get in to see an ENT here in Zambia, but will probably have to go fairly soon to Jo'burg to get her tonsils out. There is just so much dust around and instead of causing a cold, she gets inflamed tonsils. Poor love. I on the other hand, just get the cold. Thankfully, it has not been too bad. I think it is just too dry for 'runny' noses.
I did however get to the couriers, where we collect our purchases from the UK. Thankfully, all of Laura's birthday presents have arrived (we are still waiting for one of Tom's) and so has most of my cake decorating bits and pieces. I may not have all of them by my birthday, which is a shame as I was hoping to practice on my cake before doing Laura's. But I am truly inspired by some of the fondant figures.
Poor Phil spent 3 hours on Saturday cleaning the car. The mine site gets 'dust-a-side' sprayed on the roads. It is a tar like substance that sticks the top layers of dirt to the road without actually laying bitumen. However, when you drive over it wet, it sprays up all over the car. Thus, it takes a long time to clean it off with degreaser or diesel. Just as well I was sick. Lol.
I have also hired a new house cleaner / nanny. Carol is a local girl from Chingola (a town in the copperbelt) and is now living on site with her sister and brother-in-law. She is 22 and has just finished school and now wants to save up to study medicine. Carol will be working Monday to Friday mornings. I hope to be able to get out and do some exercise during this time, as I am really in need of it now. Especially with all this cooking......Did I tell you about the yummy muffins I made? Lol.
This morning we had some friends over for coffee. It was lovely to sit out underneath our lapra and entertain. I am looking forward to doing more of this in the future.
I apologise for no photos this week. I will make it up to you all and bore you senseless next week.
x
The next was watching Tom and Laura wash each others back in the bath, before he then gave her a shoulder massage. At times they can be so loving towards each other, it just melts my heart. Why can't these moments last longer??????
The last was tonight, as I sat under the Larpa drinking my glass of Armarula. The sun was going down behind the trees, throwing out a beautiful golden light over everything. The bugs glowing as the sun hit their wings. The temperature was just perfect, even at 5pm and the music coming from up the road truly African. A real drum beat and the most beautiful sounding voices. I really love these moments. We are so lucky to be here experiencing this.
The rest of the week passed by quickly enough. I helped out at the school on Tuesday, as one of the other Mum's could not get a babysitter, as her house help had not turned up for work. Then on Wednesday, I had some of the younger kids over whilst Tom was at school. I also managed to get some more cake cooking in. I made some delicious caramel and apple muffins. These may be my favourite so far.
On Thursday a friend dropped in for coffee and on Friday we headed to Solwezi. As Phil worked last weekend, he took Friday off. We were able to get quite a bit done, before Laura came down sick yet again! So off to the clinic we went again on Saturday. This time we had her checked for Malaria, as we did not think it could be tonsilitis again so soon. So she screamed blue murder, as the technician pricked her thumb and drew some blood for testing. Thankfully, no malaria, but again her tonsils are inflamed. We are going to try to get in to see an ENT here in Zambia, but will probably have to go fairly soon to Jo'burg to get her tonsils out. There is just so much dust around and instead of causing a cold, she gets inflamed tonsils. Poor love. I on the other hand, just get the cold. Thankfully, it has not been too bad. I think it is just too dry for 'runny' noses.
I did however get to the couriers, where we collect our purchases from the UK. Thankfully, all of Laura's birthday presents have arrived (we are still waiting for one of Tom's) and so has most of my cake decorating bits and pieces. I may not have all of them by my birthday, which is a shame as I was hoping to practice on my cake before doing Laura's. But I am truly inspired by some of the fondant figures.
Poor Phil spent 3 hours on Saturday cleaning the car. The mine site gets 'dust-a-side' sprayed on the roads. It is a tar like substance that sticks the top layers of dirt to the road without actually laying bitumen. However, when you drive over it wet, it sprays up all over the car. Thus, it takes a long time to clean it off with degreaser or diesel. Just as well I was sick. Lol.
I have also hired a new house cleaner / nanny. Carol is a local girl from Chingola (a town in the copperbelt) and is now living on site with her sister and brother-in-law. She is 22 and has just finished school and now wants to save up to study medicine. Carol will be working Monday to Friday mornings. I hope to be able to get out and do some exercise during this time, as I am really in need of it now. Especially with all this cooking......Did I tell you about the yummy muffins I made? Lol.
This morning we had some friends over for coffee. It was lovely to sit out underneath our lapra and entertain. I am looking forward to doing more of this in the future.
I apologise for no photos this week. I will make it up to you all and bore you senseless next week.
x
Monday 4 June 2012
Week 10 -Photos
Week 10 - 3.6.12
I have had a busy week of cooking and washing. I got back
from our holiday to an e-mail that informed me it was ‘Bake sale’ Friday. This
time we were raising money for the International School. Eliz, Leopard’s Lodge
manager, had sent us home with some fruit, so I put it to good use in cakes. I
made a lovely pear cake and a delicious orange cake with syrup. The orange cake
ended up staying at home, as it sort of fell apart as I was removing it from
the pan, but the pear cake looked good. Hopefully it tasted nice as well.
We have also had Mukwato and Clement here some nights for
dinner, as they have been working late to finish our Larpa. So that meant
cooking for them as well. Cooking for 4 adults and 2 kids keeps one busy.
The washing also kept me going all week. We have a front
loader that takes 1 ½ hours to do one load and it then needs to go in the
drier. We don’t have a clothes line outside due to the Putsi fly. So washing
tends to take a while. As you can imagine, with all the dirt and dust, we all
came home pretty filthy. As I had bought the kids some new clothes for the
holiday, I was glad they came out the wash clean and not still brown as most of
our clothes do.
I then had another e-mail, about a farewell on Friday at
Tom’s school, so could I please bring a plate for the kids to share. More
cooking! I cheated a bit this time and tried to make chocolate crackles. I say
tried as they ended up chocolate chewie’s, not crackles! It was the first time
I had made them and we do not get copha over here, so I used condensed milk.
This is what the recipe said on the internet! Anyway, they were still eaten so
all was well. This time Amelie is leaving. Her family is heading to Canada.
My hair has finally sorted itself out. On the weekend, Phil
told me that he could not believe how grey I am! Thanks Darling. Anyway, when
we got home on Monday, I thought I had better do something about it. One of the
girls here had a spare colour, so I put it in. I am now a very dark auburn
brown. The problem then was my eyebrows, so you guessed it, I did them as well.
I have to admit I like it being darker. I have no idea what I’ll do in about 6
weeks time, but at least for now the greys have gone. My curls have come back
too. I think my hair has finally adjusted to the water and I almost look like
my old self again.
I went on one walk with Laura this week and must say I am
glad she is not eating a lot at the moment, because she is so heavy to carry. I
pray every night for my pram and thermomix! The other girls think I am mad
carrying her, but it is the only chance I get to exercise.
We also had another blackout this week. Thankfully, it was
at 8:30pm just as I was getting ready for bed. It was a total blackout this
time. Normally the street lights are still left on, so you can still see a
little, but this time they went as well. It was pitch black. Luckily I have my
candles and matches on hand. It was off for most of the night as the TV woke
Phil at about 2am.
Friday was my busiest day. I had the farewell in the morning
at school. I had dinner for 6 that night and drinks in the afternoon, plus
washing and housework thrown in. The kids are really becoming quite
independent. As soon as we arrived at one of the girls’ house for drinks, the
kids literally disappeared. They all headed off to the park. It is so nice to
see them playing with so many kids and having the freedom that they do. It gives
me a chance to sit and relax.
Unfortunately, Phil had to work all weekend. So I took the
kids on Saturday and drove to Manyama. This was my first drive out of the mine
site by ‘myself’ as such. We had a lovely time wandering the markets and came
home with some lovely goodies. I bought a blanket each for the kids. They are
made in Kenya and feel so wonderfully soft. Also, a couple of pots which I can
use as planters for some seeds. I have a Marula tree seed and a Mukwa tree seed
that I am going to try and grow. A small cooking braai and some mats for the
Larpa. We also picked up some charcoal on the way home. I also had to be breath tested on the way in
to the mine site. Everyone who drives onto the mine site must have a zero level
of alcohol in their system.
I again had to do battle with the ants today. I am determined
to win. The pantry again was full of the little black buggers. So out came
everything again, and then after a good clean up, I sprayed surface spray
around the edges. Hopefully the spray won’t kill us only the ants! Then after
some time I had to load it all back in again. I would say I have cleaned my
pantry out at least 5 times since we have been here, which averages out to two times a month. They are driving me crazy.
Tonight we used our braai for the first time. Phil cooked
some borewors. These are sausages made in a circle. The sausages are very
different here. They contain all meat, not the fat and extras that they do back
home. Thankfully, the braai did not fall apart and we enjoyed our dinner.
Our Larpa was finished yesterday, and so I have included
some pictures which show how it was made. We love it. It really is beautiful
and has received so many comments. Mukwato has had so many people ask him to
build them one, he could go into business. We bought some cane furniture off
Amelie’s parents and have put this under the Larpa. I am sure you will be able
to pick out the chair that I have claimed as mine!
Friday 1 June 2012
Kafue Holiday Photos
Laura and her Daddy. Tom and Mum.
Wart hog.
One of the house on the way home.
Barber shop.
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