Log Date	Entered by	Log Entry
7/31/2007 6:08:30 PM	Bernadette	Yes I did promise to send a message on Sun night to assure everyone of my safe arrival back home, however my computer refused to co-operate. After 2 worse than useless phonecalls to call centres in India/Pakistan/wherever I've managed to sort it myself. The journey home was fine once I eventually got out of the grasps of the officials in Lilongwe who gave me a hard time, first of all for my baggage being over and secondly for taking too much kwacha out of the country (£20!!). I held fast and refused to pay any bribes when they kept saying "what are we going to do about this?" eventhough it was past take-off time for my flight. It's been great seeing all my firends and family again in between trying to catch up with my sleep. I'm really shattered after what proved to be a hectic month but it was worth it. For the next chapter of the Malawi Adventures you can log on in 2009!!!
7/27/2007 11:28:48 PM	Ian, Louise & Aileen	We've enjoyed reading all the reports from the St Michael's team and their comments on what they've seen and whom they've met. We also had a busy time, and were welcomed warmly as we renewed friendships and made new contacts, but didn't have the Internet contact to put news on the logbook page. The hen we were given spent a night (alive) in the larder. My new skill from this trip is buying cement and reinforcing rods and hiring two builders to make pit latrine covers, so if any reader needs one . . . This year's new experiences were power off four times, water off once, and fuel stations running out of diesel - also, doing Auld Lang Syne with a circle of village children, and getting time to see a good bit more of Malawi. Looking forward to the next visit . . .
7/27/2007 2:40:04 PM	Alison	In case I get lost in transit......flying out at 1.00 from Lilongwe - Zambia - Ethiopia - Rome - London. Should arrive london at 8.30am with ethiopia airways and will contact someone when i land. got no battery left on mobile (or charger) so you will have to be patient......pawemi!!xx
7/27/2007 2:37:58 PM	Bernadette	Monire mose! Well that's my Malawian adventures almost over for another 2 years. It's been a fantastic trip both with the whole gang the first 2 weeks and Alison the last two. It was pretty sad saying farewell to the delegation who came to wave us off this morning. They were all singing and waving Scottish flags. One thing I won't miss is the church bells ringing at 6am every morning to wake us up for 6:30am Mass!! 7am is a lie in here! I'm presuming that there will be one of my family/friends at the airport on Sun morning to meet me. I'm flying at 10:30am tomorrow morning from Lilongwe - Lusaka - Nairobi - Amsterdam - Glasgow with Kenyan Airways then KLM. I get into Glasgow at 8:30am so 9am will be fine for picking me up. Tionanenge sono sono and tiwonge chomene to all of you who have been reading and posting messages. I'll post a final message on Sun evening to hopefully let you all know of my safe trip and arrival.
7/27/2007 2:27:55 PM	Alison	Hello from Malawi! Just in Lilongwe at Nelly's guest house, arrived after a 5 hour drive from Mzuzu and awaiting departure tomorrow. This is my last log so its just to let you all know I had a wonderful experience out here.....some happy moments some sad but none the less.....character building ha ha. Had a nice farewell meal last night and received very nice gifts from the locals. Thank you all for your messages....they were a great read! I am scheduled to land in Glasgow on Monday morn at 8.30, but going to try negotiate my way onto a flight sunday afternoon (if no delays) Dad i will call you sunday from the airport to let you know my arrival....see you all soon xxxx
7/26/2007 10:42:54 PM	ross	hope you are well and still having fun
7/25/2007 1:30:11 PM	Alison	Monire!!! well we have been very busy! yesterday we attended a party at St Peter's Orphan Group which was funded by the maths department at St Michael's. Parties here are very different from parties at home as the kids only look forward to the food! The flat pack aeroplanes donated by a parent from Greenwood went down a treat, the kids loved them! Greenwood staff will be pleased to know that their kind donations (200 pounds or 27000 kwacha) went towards this orphan group to provide food, blankets etc. We also visited a few more secondary schools yest and today.....looks promising so really looking forward to forming a committee and a partnership after discussions. Many schools have needs therefore Greenwood have donated 150 pounds (as did St Michaels) in total to 3 schools. A further 200 pounds was donated to Mary Martha Orphanage from Greenwood as the needs of the people are critical. Again all the toys donated by staff have put smiles on many kids faces. As St Peter's have been extremely welcoming, and with the art workshop being a success I thought it was best to donate 50 pounds to the school to buy paint and materials for the odd art workshop...the pupils dont have these treats! I think I will find it strange returning home to no one staring at me! Yesterday I had the pleasure of a lift home the Malawian way - on the back of a pick up truck, you had to hold on reeeaaaally tight - bernadette and I could not stop laughing the whole journey. St Bernadette's head is getting huge by the day...they want to name the new assembly hall after her when its built ha ha....oh and dont forget the plot of land they wish to give her....negotiations are in place....its so funny, first time I seen her blush!!! (Carol/Kirsty/Shirley/Mum and Dad - thanks for your messages they have made me giggle - and NO kirsty I do not have my straightners and hairdryer.....or any make up so the pics are a treat!!!) Aidan - missing you loads cant wait to see you on monday xxxxxxx
7/25/2007 1:29:58 PM	Bernadette	Met up with one of my old friends last night, Mr. Msowya. He was the Chairman of the School Board for about 5 years and he's a great man. He was so appreciative that I got in touch and invited him for dinner. He sent a tailor to our house to take my meaurements yesterday morning so that he can have a Malawian outfit made for me - can't wait to see it!! Unfortunately he is very ill and needs major heart surgery, which can't be done in Malawi. His family are trying to raise the money to send him to South Africa. I don't know how I'm going to get everything home as every day people are arriving with presents that they can ill afford to buy. We invited Mr. Ziba for dinner as well last night and showed him the DVD of his visit to Scotland last year, which he loved. I've just taken Rodwin, Wisdom and their little brother Emmanuel for their bi-annual shopping trip. They each got a pair of shoes and a baseball cap and Alison bought them pants and socks. You can't imagine how happy they were. We then took them and their mum and dad out for lunch and the bill came to 7 pounds for 7 of us. To put it in perspective though Ivy their mum earns less than 30 pounds a month as a primary teacher and their dad is also a teacher. The shoes were about 6 pounds a pair so one fifth of a teacher's salary! We also went to the supermarket and bought some basics for the family. All we've done is moan about chicken and rice every day but we felt really guilty when I asked the mum how often they eat chicken and she replied "once a year". They have beef around once a month. It also very annoying that they insist on giving us chicken and beef twice a day and sometimes sausages for breakfast as well. So much for the Malawi diet!!! Only 2 days to go and I'm starting to feel really emotional about leaving as much as I'm looking forward to a nice hot bath!!
7/24/2007 3:34:53 PM	Bernadette	Monire mose! It’s 10:20pm and well past my bed time so I’ll be very brief. We are having a brilliant time!! Obviously there are tough times but we counteract them with lots of laughter – sometimes at the most inappropriate moments! It’s great catching up with all my old friends and we’ve been invited out to dinner almost every night this week. The downside (apart from being totally knackered) is that we have to eat their food. Even I’m finding it tough so I’m really proud of Alison and how she’s coping especially when I land her in it. She has now discovered Malawi’s Weapon of Mass Destruction otherwise known as the boiled banana. Having had the experience before and never wanting to repeat it I told them to give Alison a big portion so she could taste it for the first time. The entertainment value of watching her try to chew and digest it was priceless! However, I always knew that my saintly image here was in risk of being tarnished by bringing Alison and again I was right – dancing on top of the bar at 2am in Nkhata Bay – the girl has no shame!!! Tiwonanenge sono sono
7/24/2007 3:33:42 PM	Alison	Monday 23rd July Hello all! My chitumbuka is improving, the locals try and catch me out at Mass but I’m learning! Dinner was fantastic last night..well until we were presented with fish/leaf soup ha ha. Then to accompany our beer we were offered boiled ???? Bernadette chewed it for half an hour before returning it to the plate…she classed it as a UBO (unidentified boiled object). Watching her struggle I used the excuse of being full ha ha. Today we have been on the go from 6am to 6pm. We visited 3 schools to identify a partner school for Greenwood. The first was a rural school, they were very welcoming and in desperate need of development. We were the first mazungu (white people) to have ever visited the school so I’m sure you could imagine their reactions. They had one building, 90 plus students, of which 30 or so slept overnight in the classrooms. The 4 teachers stayed within 100 yards but lived in poor conditions. Bernadette and I were so overwhelmed that we both joined together and donated £50 each from both Greenwood and St Michaels giving them a total of £100. This school was too remote for a partner but its definitely a school that both of us want to offer continual support. For our kindness we were given a real (live) chicken as a gift, which to Bernadette’s hilarity spent the whole day bonding with me in the back of the car! The second school was a private school and looked very promising as a partner. It used to be a technical school and have just restructured to become a secondary school and college. They have a school board and dedicated staff….again they need financial help. The third school we visited was a first class government boarding school, top pupils from across the country are selected for this school ( the crème of the crop!). surprisingly, the boarding conditions were horrendous. There were about 10 single beds in a dorm, and 2 pupils per bed!!!! In some rooms the roof had caved in and the head teacher told us that they did not have enough mattresses so some pupils used old doors to lie on! We had a look around the kitchen…..lets just say you would not like it Aidan! As the 3 schools were very hospitable we have decided to give each school £100 ( £50 Greenwood, £50 St Michaels)…..( Derek can you post me a message with your home number so I can call Aid, missing you aidan, love mum xxxx)
7/24/2007 3:32:26 PM	Alison	Sunday 22nd July Well our few days at nkhata bay were paradise…..temp up to 30 degrees, fabulous food, cocktails galore(and only £1 each!!)…..oh and lets not forget the rooms with no inside toilets and a small bolt as a lock…oh and the net windows ha ha…..did I forget to mention the outside ant infested toilets…..Bernadette sprung that surprise on our arrival! I have now discovered that when I ask Bernadette ‘how is the food’, ‘what are the toilets like’ and she answers ‘fine’ that it’s NOT fine…..we are now defining our experiences as ‘character building’ ha ha. To tell the truth the lake was amazing (once I got over the cold showers under the moonlight in the bamboo hut!), we were well rested (well sort of….I will let Bernadette shame me!). After we left the lake on Saturday we went straight to the Mary Martha Orphanage…it was heartbreaking. They were very welcoming….dancing, singing, reading poems, so much so that I offered them £200 from Greenwood Academy to accompany the monies already donated from St Michaels and Sheila. It was really rewarding giving the orphans the toys donated from Greenwood….they went down a treat! The meal we received was……character building!!! Lets just say environmental health would have a ball. After we ate our meal (the traditional Malawian way…with our hands), we went outside to mingle with the orphans, I played netball, only downfall was that it took me 10 mins to work out who was on my team and whether I was shooting or defending! The boiled bananas for lunch (recommended by Bernadette….I should have known better!) were having a dispute with my stomach at this point. Saturday night we went to Irene ----- for dinner. Again yet another ‘character building’ meal! I got a bit freaked out by a (huge) spider on my way to bed, think my pet gheko had fallen out with me. Sunday Morning – double Mass, the chitumbuka mass lasted 2 hours, and the English Mass 1hr 30mins. In the afternoon we went to Irene ---- houses to see her 5 month old grandson, he was so cute but I was really impressed with myself when a rat came fleeing down from a hole in her ceiling into the room…..twice!!! I did not even flinch ha ha….it’s the norm! Heading to Mrs Okoronko (teacher) for dinner tonight…wish I could have pasta. (Carol/Aidan thanks for messages brought a tear to my eye – miss you all loads xxxxxxx)
7/21/2007 10:21:08 PM	Sheila, Andrew, Ross	Finally emerged from under all the laundry - guess I will take a leaf out of your book and send all the ironing out! Gippy stomach finally got us all at home but obviously not as bad as you!Return journey was amazing - delayed for 8 hours in Lilongwe, complete with a powercut and they eventually gave us some food - yes you guessed it chicken and rice. Managed to get all the connections. You will be so glad you are not going anywhere near Heathrow as some of the runways are flooded. Weather here is just like Mzuzu but not quite as much mud. Andrew is ploughing through the 1,300 or so pictures we took and he hopes your blood alcohol level has returned to normal! Hope Alison and you are having a good time and do give our regards to all out there we really miss them. See you when you get back and we'll have a wee reunion here.
7/18/2007 11:34:35 AM	Bernadette	Wednesday 18th July Hi all. Our driver (the local MP's son)is waiting outside to drive us to the lake for a couple of days to chill out and relax and hopefully even get some sun. I really need the break as I'm worn out. It's been non-stop this week trying to fit everything in. A month seems like a long time but it is flying in and I;m trying to keep everyone happy by visiting all the schools, organisations, friends and holding meetings with all of the committees. I haven't even had the chance to meet up with my young friend Arnold yet - hopefully next week. We'll log on again on Sat when we return from the lake.
7/18/2007 11:29:46 AM	Alison	Wednesday 18th July Well I went for dinner at one of the teachers houses last night and tried nsima for the first time (eeehhh not my thing!). The dinner was impressive we had fish, rice, chicken, nsima, veg and boiled leaves…..a feast! Of course it had to be washed down with a few beers and to our surprise we got to taste homebrew – banana wine!!! Yesterday we held an art workshop for pupils to draw/paint pictures for St Matthews, their efforts were great and as they had never used paint before, it was really amusing to see their curiosity and watch them paint for the first time. On Monday we got the orphans to write a letter to the donors regarding their life and the impact the scholarship scheme has had on them. Afterwards we filmed 4 of them telling their story, it was really emotional, makes me feel guilty that I am not a donor……yet!!! And not to forget……I had my first run in with a lizard last night……I’m sure you can imagine my reaction….Bernadette is training me to love them (against my will!!!). Also attended the school board meeting last night, made me realise how huge a task this is going to be for Greenwood to establish a partnership…..but amazing to see how much St Michaels have contributed to the lives of these people! Well I will be signing off for a few days! Bernadette and I have been so busy, on the go from 6am to 8pm most days, after our duties at the school this morning we are going to the lake to relax until sat morning. I will be in touch on Sat. ( Aidan – love you loads…..missing you but have your little picture to remind me of your cheek…..hope your behaving!!! Family/Friends – thanks for the messages, cant wait to get back to share my stories!xxxxxx
7/17/2007 9:54:24 PM	Louise	HellllO! You'll be pleased to know i have returned home safely and im feeling much better... still finding it hard to eat, but the vodka has stayed down well =] and yes bernadette i have also lost more than half a stone... i think i may sell my secret diet to one of those celebs.. hope you and alison are having a ball... actualli wish i was bck out there now im clean. tell everyone i send my wishes! take care x
7/17/2007 11:36:48 AM	Alison	Hello all, thank you for your messages mum, kirsty, dad and carol. I am having a wonderful experience but missing you all so your messages are very comforting. I have had a really busy schedule yest and today. Yest visited the orphans on the scholarship scheme (heart breaking stories!) and today been visiting schools etc with bernadette to issue cheques. Just been side tracked by the Secretary General of livingstonia synod for tea (ooooohhhh!!!),so behind schedule. Taking an art workshop at the school this afternoon, then meeting with the school committee and having dinner at one of the teachers houses tonight! Will give a full report tomorrow, this is a flying visit to the internet cafe. For those of you who would like to send a message the password is mzuzu........Bernadette misses you all too, keep you posted xxxxxxx
7/16/2007 3:27:22 PM	Bernadette	Mon 16 July Hi. As well as having a good laugh at Alison’s attempts in Chitumbuka, she is totally cracking me up by throwing a tantrum every time she encounters an insect. It’s hilarious! Today I’ve been going around collecting the proposals for our donations from the Malawi fund. Luynangwa Girls P.S. are using their £250 to resurface 3 classroom floors, St. Peter’s P.S. are going to carry out repairs on all their desks and chairs and the women’s development centre are going to introduce a monthly programme to support the most vulnerable orphans by providing food, clothes and school materials. I also had a meeting with all the orphans who benefit from the Scholarship programme. It was good spending time with them and listening to their life stories. They are so appreciative of what the scholarships have done for them.
7/16/2007 3:26:47 PM	Alison	Mon 16 July monire (greetings)!! Well as you can all see I’m now pretty fluent in chitumbuka ha ha! It was great waking up at 6am this morning to Bernadette’s alarm, the church bells and the guard dogs continuous barking! Went to Mass, I now have a chitumbuka hymn book so I can join in with the singing……there is loads of singing at mass!!! All the locals have made me feel really welcome, and some are putting my lingo to the test, my answer “Makora, kwali imwe?” - “fine, and you?” is almost perfected, so much so that Bernadette is laughing at my expense when they actually say “hello” and I answer “I’m fine, and you”……not to worry, I think they appreciate my efforts! 6 o’clock rise is manageable (Kev you couldn’t do it!) but the 8 o’clock bed with my cocoa is bliss (Aidan you would struggle with this bed time eh??). Been to visit St Peters secondary today and 2 primary schools, really sad to see almost 100 primary kids in one classroom, sitting on the floor receiving their lesson, yet they were so happy for us to take picture’s and at one point we were swarmed with them outside at break…..really overwhelming! Off to speak with the orphans who are supported through the orphan scholarship scheme this afternoon. (Family/friends – really missing you allxxxxxxx)
7/16/2007 3:26:03 PM	Bernadette	Sun 15 July Hi folks! Now that the 2 girls have texted to say they are home safely I can now fill you all in on what last week was really like (We didn’t want to worry the parents). Louise and I were struck down with a mysterious illness for most of last week. It wasn’t pleasant but we survived to tell the story although the safari was a bit of a blur. At one point Naz phoned the hospital to say we would be checking in shortly but I refused – I’m a firm believer that the risk of catching more diseases outweighs the benefits of Malawian health care!! We endured 5 days of body pains, shivering, fever, vomiting and drowsiness. The plus point is that I’ve lost around half a stone already. To prove how serious it was I couldn’t touch a beer for a week!! Eric - I know that you won’t believe that I was sober on safari! On the last night on safari I had a shandy but couldn’t finish it. I’m now the only one left from the original group of 7 but it’s great now having Alison for company and seeing Malawi for the first time again through her eyes. Everything here is second nature to me now that I forget how different it is from home. Bernard W– in answer to your question “How have things changed since I first came out in 2002?” Unfortunately I don’t see many changes at all, if anything the standard of living gets worse and worse as the kwacha keeps losing value. The school of course is unrecognisable due to all my supporters at home who have contributed to its development through the St. Michael’s Malawi Partnership. It is really rewarding seeing how it has grown and in particular the effects of the orphan scholarship scheme, which they are deeply grateful for. On a lighter note the one change in Mzuzu is the introduction of a set of traffic lights!! I’m told that on the first day of their operation a crowd of people just stood there the whole day watching the lights change!!!
7/16/2007 3:25:21 PM	Alison	Sun 15 July Hello all…well I am writing this so its fair to say I have arrived (32 hours later)! A wise man said ‘it will be more western than you think’ but after my journey from Lilongwe to Mzuzu I need to disagree (mud huts are all the rage)! Looks like the weight loss things is a myth, they keep feeding me chicken and rice every 5 mins (oh and a roll and sausage for my breakkie!). Went to a double mass this morning…..that was interesting….the singing was amazing, I now understand why religion is top priority out here. It was pouring of rain and really cold all morning but has just brightened up yippee! Bernadette has introduced me to the local beer – lets just say its going down a treat! My bed is cosy and my thermal pj’s with thermal socks and dressing gown are doing the job. The house im staying in is basic but it has electricity (with occasional power cuts) and im at least able to have a hot shower (hopefully that will continue). The beasties are out and about, seen a huge strange green thing last night – not to be messed with! (missing you all loads, it’s the start of a great experience – aidan missing you loadsxxxx) pawemi (goodbye)
7/12/2007 4:14:23 PM	Bernadette	Thurs 12 July Back at nelly’s after our safari adventures. Top priority for all of us was to try and get as near to clean as possible – which was no mean feat. When we stopped for lunch en route today I gave everyone a wetwipe and we had a competition to see whose would have the most grime on it. It was a close call but I think I won as my entire right arm had about 3 inches on it – nice!! We did actually have hot water and a shower every day on safari – honest!! - but you just get covered in dust from head to toe within 5 mins of showering.
7/12/2007 4:13:35 PM	Andrew	Tuesday 10th July 5.00 am start to the day. Breakfast at 5.30am then onto the land rover for 6.00. First safari of the day. It is very cold. Had only just entered the park when we had our first look at a big cat. A leopard. It was only a quick look as it wandered into the bush. It was a very good start. We have seen elephants, zebra, hippo’s, crocodile’s, a pack of wild dogs, baboons, mongoose, warthogs, a lilac bird, squirrel, impala, puku, kudu, giraffe’s, fish eagles, tawny eagles, termite mound, guinea fowl, yellow billed storks, blue heron, red hornbill, with more to follow.
7/12/2007 4:12:25 PM	Orla	Monday 9th July Today we had to say goodbye to father Naz and Joe the driver as we were getting in a land rover to Zambia. When we arrived at the border we all had to get out and went into a little office to fill in a book with passport details that took a good while because there was not only us but also two Dutch couples as well. Once everybody had there passports stamped we jumped back on the land rover and off we went, for about four feet as we had to do the exact same thing once we entered Zambia but this time show our yellow fever certificate. We stopped for lunch, which consisted of a thick sliced sandwich with cheese, tomato, lettuce and onion. Soon after we were on our way (as we could tell when there was no road) bumping all the way. Surprisingly Bernadette did not wake up. We were only at Kiboko Safari for five minutes and we had already seen hippos, an elephant, monkeys and the neighbourhood dog. All very excited to see the animals. Better get a good night sleep as we have to get at five to have breakfast.
7/12/2007 4:11:50 PM	Andrew	Sunday 8th July Church at 8am. Men sat on the right and women on the left. There was no priest available to officiate and Fr Naz kept very quiet. Bernadette was kept amused by the baby beside her who peed the floor (so much from one so small) and the mother wiped it up with her chitenje and then proceeded to put it back on!!!!!! The service was a shortened one of only 2 hours in Chichewa!! Then a journey back to Lilongwe via Dedza. What a road full of hairpin bends up and down mountains. Just like the Grande Corniche outside of Monte Carlo – would be great in a James Bond film. The road was built with funding from the European Union. It only reaches part of the way as they ran out of money. Returned to Nelly’s Lodge to recharge the batteries, (human and electrical), ready for the early start in the morning for the Kiboko Sarfari Camp.
7/12/2007 4:11:07 PM	sheila	Saturday 7th July Said goodbye to Margaret, sad to see the blue smurf leaving as she was great fun to be around. Drowned our sorrows by having a cold beer on the lakeside on the way to Mua. Just like any Med resort but completely deserted – sun really warm at last. Mua was fantastic – great museum explaining the culture of the 3 main tribes – Yao, Chewa and Ngoni. There were also some wood carving stalls. The cases could not hold all I wanted to buy – Andrew nearly had a fit when I wanted to buy a carved house! The rooms we stayed in were lovely – very sophisticated African huts with en suite facilities. Early night as shattered.
7/8/2007 5:19:01 PM	Louise	3,4,5 July Wow! How busy have we all been! Tuesday we all went back to school. What an experience that was! I was put in form 4A, kinda like our 6th year. They definitely put me to shame- I had no clue about any of the subjects besides English surprisingly! It was really funny- I sat next to a boy called David and girl Colleta and they told everyone I was Madonna and I was going to adopt David! At break and lunch we were swarmed by people, giving addresses taking pictures and talking - it was great! On the Wednesday the 4rth July we went back to school again! This time I was in form 3A - just as difficult as form 4! I was in with Maxwell, which was just as well as he had to help me when someone bumped my pencil case and postcards! Oh well! We didn’t go back to class after lunch, instead Father Chunda drove us to Winnie Maxwell Mercy and Dennis’ homes. What an experience! I barely had my big toe in the front door at Winnie’s when her mother embraced me In a huge hug, calling my name and kissing me. Words can't describe how happy I felt, being so warmly welcomed into their home considering I had never met them before. Winnie’s home was lovely, with furniture and electricity. However it was still a surprise to see where she came from and how clean and well dressed she is. Her toilet consists of a hole in the ground and bathroom a concrete room with two basins. I only got to meet Winnie’s mother and father as her two sisters and brother are away, but I got to speak to her older sister Doreen on the phone. It was very emotional being there, being made part of their family. Winnie’s mother said to me “ I love you like you are my own daughter. Please never leave our lives. You are always welcome here. We cannot give you anything but our love and prayers and you have that forever” Well it took me ages to stop the crying! On our last day in Mzuzu we all felt rather sad , we all had so much fun catching up and laughing and singing! - it may be hard to believe but this trip has brought Winnie Maxwell Orla and myself even closer than before. We didn’t say Pawemi - goodbye - we said Tionanenge Sono - see you soon! We all know it may take a while before we see one another again, but as the Malawians say - with patience brings joy! Friday we made our way back to Lliongwe! We stayed at Nelly’s Lodge - well compared to what we had been staying in it is luxury! It even has a TV woopwoop! Saturday we said goodbye to Margaret - really going to miss her! Hope you’re having fun thinking about us all roughing it while your cosy with your wine ! Marc! Have a really great birthday when it comes! Unfortunately I wont be able to get in touch on the day of your birthday as I will b in the middle of the Zambian jungle! Have fun, don’t b getting too drunk!
7/8/2007 5:16:23 PM	Orla	today I went back to school. I was put in form 4b. Everyone was very friendly towards me especially when they found out my second name. As it was the same as a boy. Everyone was laughing and shouting “he’s your brother! He’s your brother!” I asked the boys name and it was Andrew now that got them started when I said “that’s my father’s name”. After school me and Louise met up with Denis, Mercy, Winnie and Maxwell. Father Chunda was taken us to see their homes. We were only allowed an hour to visit but the welcome we got from each house was so nice as they had made us apart of the family. Maxwell’s parents weren’t there but I got to meet the grandparents who didn’t speak a word of English, his cousin and his little sister Ellen. His home is very poor indeed far worse than the others. He has no electricity and very little belongings. It was very hard to see. Although Maxwell was very happy that I got to see his home and family. I’m only sorry I didn’t get to meet his parents.
7/6/2007 8:58:45 PM	Ross	Wed 4 July Nkhata bay was very nice especially the rooms and the surroundings. It felt like luxury compared to the houses we were living in. While I was there I learned how to play the drums (bongo) and also learned how to carve names and animals out of wood so I made a key ring tag for my girlfriend. The journey there was long and very bumpy because there were no real roads to drive along. The rest of the day was spent drinking and roaming around the place, which was fun, as I knew every short cut, lane and long cut. If I were to come back to Malawi I would go there again definitely.
7/6/2007 8:57:17 PM	Bernadette	Wed 4 July Headline - Sheila brings joy to a multitude of Malawian children!!! Sheila and I carried out some of the official business in the morning by visiting the St. Peter’s Orphan Centre and the 2 primary schools to inform them of the money we are donating from the St. Michael’s Malawi Development Fund. We have asked them to write proposals on how the money will be spent so that first of all we can see if it will be used appropriately and secondly so that we are able to report how the money be will used when we return home. However as much as the donations were received very well the entertainment value was found when walking between the 2 schools accompanied by numerous school kids. It had been raining heavily the night before resulting in a sea of mud all around so you really had to choose your steps carefully. With a bit of acrobatics I managed to negotiate the mudslide to reach the other side only to hear a squeal from Sheila. I turned round to find her with one shoe and one bare foot in the mud with her other shoe stuck in the mud behind her and she was sinking!! Neither of us could move – Sheila because she was being swallowed by mud and I couldn’t move for laughing. The kids were doubled up with laughter and shouting sorry, sorry sorry! As Sheia disappeared before our very eyes. When I composed myself a bit all I could say was – “ but I don’t have a camera!”. All was well in the end as I managed to haul her out and two small children rescued the shoe.
7/5/2007 11:17:31 AM	Bernadette	Hi Just back from an overnight stay at the lake. I'm afraid there is no time to fill you in on what we've been up to. We have final assembly at St. Peter's, visit to Mary Martha Orphan's centre and a meal with the priests and the school committee to fit in today. We will write everything up for tomorrow.
7/4/2007 9:24:13 AM	Bernadette	day 3 Tues 3 July We all went for a drink to the Ilala Lodge last night which is our local. I had invited Mr. ziba during the day and told him to bring a couple of others. You can imagine how surprised we were to find 19 people in total - anything for a free drink here. We paid for 2 rounds (38 drinks for those of you who didn't have me as a Maths teacher!) and the total cost was 15 pounds. That's why I love Malawi so much!!!
7/4/2007 9:19:30 AM	sheila	day 3 Tues 3 July Hoorah, school today. It was strange to see Orla, Louise and Ross in school uniform going off to school – rather like their first day at secondary school, all looking so smart. Today it is very cold and everyone else seems to be wearing heavy coats. Ross, Orla and Louise were all assigned to a different class. I went into Form 3B where I got the students to write about their typical day. I sat in on a revision English class (their exams are due very soon), got 2B to write about Christmas or any other celebration and then sat in on Geography, English and Business Study classes. I spoke to all of the classes and did a question and answer session. The new desks and chairs have certainly made a difference and the stools in the science lab are very sturdy! The library is also looking very well stocked now and pupils use it now for study periods. After lunch we watched Bernadette, Margaret, Louise, Orla and Ross play netball. Luckily we had a ringer as we drafted in Mercy and her friend to Team Scotland. Despite me being a superb cheerleader and getting half the spectators to shout for Scotland we were beaten 6 to 4. (That seemed a good time to call a halt before we were absolutely thrashed). Bernadette resembled a beetroot afterwards with the sun and exertion! Louise, Orla and Ross then went with Father Chunda (our taxi driver complete with Scotland hat) to see the homes of Mercy, Maxwell, Winnie and Dennis. The rest of us had a quick visit to St John’s Hospital (to speak to the director of Mary Martha orphanage who was visiting his father there), then onto visit the home of Irene Jere (a primary school teacher and a member of St Peter’s school board). She stays in a parish house which is very, very basic and it was very interesting but depressing to see the conditions that a professional person has to live in. Jane (the English science teacher here on exchange) invited us all to her house for dinner. It was so kind of her especially as she has to prepare the science block for Ian Dickson’s official opening ceremony next week. Posters such as periodic tables can only be displayed for a period at a time because if they are left on the walls then pupils take them for decoration of their homes. Maybe we could try to get a periodic table on tiles so it cannot be removed.
7/3/2007 9:49:02 AM	Ross	Day 2 Monday 2 July had a very different day. We had to go to three schools in mzuzu we visited St Peters primary and secondary school and then went to a private girls school (lunyangwa). We went on to meet the orphans at the Women’s resource centre and it was disturbing giving out gifts to one woman who was a widow who had a family and was taking on six orphans because when I gave her a gift she was bowing and rolling on the ground after that we went to the market to buy material.
7/3/2007 9:48:29 AM	Louise	Day 2 Monday 2 July Really busy day, had so much fun and learned a great deal. Visited the orphanage and gave our gifts. I couldn’t hold back the tears as they danced and sang for us- these children with no one were so happy. And the simple gifts of a balloon, pencil, toothpaste toothbrush. Marc your king kong watches went down great. I just wish you could have seen this little girl jump up and down smiling. Had a great time catching up with my Malawian family Winnie and Maxwell. Visiting their homes tomorrow.
7/3/2007 9:47:30 AM	Orla	Day 2 Monday 2 July today we visited the school’s. first was to St. Peters secondary school. We saw Maxwell and Denis in class and lot’s of others. The primary school’s are in great need for tables and chairs most of the classrooms the students sat on the floor to learn. When it was break time hundreds of children came running out of the classrooms to see us. Afterwards we visited the orphanage and left them little gifts. Which they loved! By the time we got back to the house Maxwell and Winnie were waiting for us. Me and Louise had a good blether and a giggle with them and are going to see them tomorrow after school.
7/3/2007 9:47:03 AM	Margaret	Day 2 Monday 2 July I have had a very emotional day (yeah I have cried all day!!!) - I met Rodwin and Wisdom, whom I have heard a lot about, and they are two absolutely adorable kids. I passed over my nephews football tops today and they put them straight on to show off to the kids playing in the street. When we took them home they showed off their tops to their mother and grandparents, they were thrilled.
7/3/2007 9:46:08 AM	Sheila	Day 2 Monday 2 July Visited 2 primary schools and St Peter’s Secondary school. Tried to greet the pupils in their language but they wanted to hear English so I said Monire (greeting) much to everyone’s amusement. We then went to the Women’s Development Centre to see the orphans and the women in poverty. It was so emotional seeing a woman prostrate herself when getting a plastic cup, plate, a blanket and some grain for porridge.
7/3/2007 9:44:17 AM	Margaret	Monire from Mzuzu, when Bernadette suggested taking a casual jacket along for our wander into town, the whole group thought she must mad as the sun was out and it was really warm however what she didn’t say was we would be returning to our house after it was getting dark and the mosquito’s would be out to say hello, should really cover up after dark. We had a quick walk back to the house to change back into our “formal wear” to join Fr Naz, Fr Chunda and the School Dignitaries for a Welcome Reception.
7/3/2007 9:43:35 AM	Orla	After mass we went back to the house for a breather and a quick change of clothes into more comfortable ( casual ) before going for a visit to the nearest town. Was about 10 minutes by foot before we got there. Didn’t look much like a town, a few shops here and there. There was also a small market place filled with fruit, vegetables and fish. We had no money so we just walked through. We ended up walking to a pub/disco which was very nice and very comfortable after all that walking. Saw Maxwell, Denis and Winnie and I’m hoping to see them again tomorrow at the assembly.
7/3/2007 9:42:59 AM	Louise	Arrived at the house about eightish, complete darkness! The people had laid on a lovely meal; even though none of us felt like eating only sleeping. Was wakened from my deep sleep by Bernie after sleeping through the church bells! Seven o’clock in the morning- FIRST Mass of the day. Malawi isn’t big on comfort in Mass. Met Maxwell and Dennis after Mass.So good to see them both. The a quick breakfast and SECOND Mass- didn’t understand a word. Then met Winnie. I was so happy and so was she. School tomorrow. Tionanenge!
7/3/2007 9:41:52 AM	Ross	It is a different experience compared to Scotland. It is very sad in the fact that everyone has hardly anything to use in everyday life & the fact that everyone has to go to one boar hole for water. I think that it will be a different sort of holiday and also to live like them.
7/3/2007 9:41:01 AM	Andrew	Wide open spaces, constant flow of people walking along the side of the road going who knows where - very, very friendly.
7/3/2007 9:40:09 AM	Sheila	After a long journey of approx 36 hours we arrived at Mzuzu. We had been welcomed at the airport by Father Naz and the local parish priest Father Chunda who doubled as the mini bus driver.
7/2/2007 7:17:36 PM	Bernadette	Pepani for not writing any messages sooner. It's due to a combination of a hectic schedule and limited internet access. Everyone is having a wonderful time. I'll leave it up to the rest to fill you in on what we've been up to.
6/23/2007 4:27:07 PM	Bernadette	This is Bernadette testing the logbook page.
6/23/2007 3:39:50 PM	Ian Dickson	A second test message for the 2007 logbook
6/23/2007 3:05:28 PM	Ian Dickson	Testing that the 2007 team entries will appear.
7/25/2005 1:00:30 PM	Thelma&Louise	Well that's us back home safe and sound so everyone can stop worrying now. Considering we left Mzuzu on Thursday morning but didn't reach home until Sunday afternoon our journey was quite an adventure. We guiltedly spent the night in the luxurious Capital Hotel courtesy of South African Airways and I think we can safely say we did not quite fit in. Suddenly giving away most of our clothes and leftover kwacha to the widows and orphans as we left Mzuzu didn't seem such a great idea. Luckily we found a nice soldier to buy us drinks - he must have felt sorry for us as we looked like refugees. After 5 weeks of slumming it you can imagine it was quite a shock to have a butler knock on our room door and ask if he could turn down our beds!! We set off for the airport again on Sat morning. As much as we didn't want to leave Malawi we didn't think it would be so difficult to get out of the country. We were rerouted through Kenya and spent 7 hours in Nairobi Airport, which turned out to be quite advantageous as it took 2 hours to convince the airline to let Marianne fly! Due to the confusion the day before of trying to get alternative flights the SAA rep managed to print tickets for Marianne O'Donnell while at the same time booking them on the system for Marianne Goodnell! Not the level of stress required at that point of the journey! Just in case we hadn't spent enough time hanging around airports BA kindly delayed the flight to Glasgow and we ended up in Heathrow Airport for 6 hours, furtively looking around for any would be suicide bombers. A fitting end to a marvellous trip was when the 4 kids were waiting at the airport to meet us. They are already making plans to return to Malawi in 2 years time so watch this space.
7/22/2005 2:48:12 PM	Thelma and Louise	So we got to the airport 3 hours before flight was to go - and we were told that no plane would be in today as SA in Jo'berg had cancelled all their flights as their is industrial action taking place at the airport.We had to stand in a queue for nearly 3 hours until we got a new flight, with new connections. The flights tomorrow were nearly all booked out but we manage to get to the front of the queue and we are now travelling tomorrow and will be in Glasgow around 10.30am. We are now sitting in Central Hotel in Lilongwe, having a few drinks in the sunshine to ease our pain at not being on the flight. SA are paying for our accomodation, drinks and meals so we a definately on to a winner there. This is the hotel that Jack McConnell stayed in (so we are experiencing the 'real malawi' now!!)
7/21/2005 7:36:12 PM	Thelma and Louise	Our bags are packed, were ready to go.....We are back at Nellie's!! After a very quick week, we spent yesterday going around saying goodbye to everyone - however, in true Malawian style they all turned up at the house to say a final goodbye from 7.30am!! We got on the road at 11.30am. Our classy car didn't fail us - to blew a tyre, right off, just as well our driver was on hand along with some random men to help us out. We are off to re - pack, as we a ladden down with things for other people. The 5 weeks have definately flown in. We have seen so much in the past 3 weeks, cant really believe its over. See you all soon. Back on Saturday.
7/21/2005 9:49:23 AM	IJD	Today's Irvine Herald has a two-page spread - Lorraine did her own selection of 8 photos from the 300 we gave her, and did a summary of what we covered in an hour's chat - ignore a few minor mis-wordings, and enjoy the pretty good overview of our week in Malawi. Let's hope our two sun-drenched colleagues have their woolly jumpers ready for stepping off the plane in Scotland.
7/20/2005 12:54:41 PM	Thelma&Louise	Just back from our "real" holiday of 2 days at the lake with the boys. We had a great time and are suitably burnt to a crisp - well there was no way we were going to leave Africa whiter than when we came. I'm sure we'll get over the sunstroke and third degree burns soon enough. We went to a fabulous ordination on Sat. The Mass was fairly short at only 3 hours then we partied with the Bishop for 4 hrs. We joined in with all the Malawian dances and the bizarre custom of throwing money into a bucket as you dance. Saying all our goodbyes today. We can't believe it's time to go home. The 5 weeks have gone so fast ans we really have had a brilliant time.
7/14/2005 9:26:07 AM	Thelma and Louise	The car is finally back on the road!! After purchasing a new battery and changing the tyre we a finally mobile!! Our corruption crusade is going well and are hoping for a job with the FBI when we return. Mr Ziba has been so impressed with our confrontations that he has asked us to remain in Mzuzu until the problem has been successfully solved - not joking Eric!! Taking Rodwin, Wisdom and Arnold out today for shopping and lunch. Tonight we are going with Pat and Chris to the Canadian Priest's home for dinner. Just purchased some beautiful Malawian outfits which will be the talk of the school when we wear them to work. Can't believe we only have a week left. Off to Rhumpi for an ordination on Saturday then to Nkhata Bay for a couple of days sunbathing.
7/11/2005 10:50:37 AM	Thelma&Louise	Hi guys. We still haven't got the pulling car on the road - hopefully today. We missed the Book Club on Fri Night as we fell asleep at 6pm - pathetic we know! On Sat night we were tucked up in bed at 7pm. We've been busy visiting the 2 orphans' centres, going to Mass and generally being very good girls. We are on an anti-corruption crusade this week which is pretty tough. We have meetings with the Parish priest, Bishop and school committee. The people in the parish and school are right behind us but it is very difficult dealing with such a sensitive issue. Yesterday after 7am Mass we were at a loose end so showing our true colours at last we went on a pub crawl in Mzuzu. Had to go and lie down after 3 beers because we are so out of practice. Thankfully our second wind appeared and we took Irene out for dinner and managed a bottle of vodka and bottle of wine between us. She is even better for gossip when she is drunk. Off shopping now - not to the sales- to buy a car battery. Working our way through the lists of tasks the rest left for us. Will write soon.
7/8/2005 11:16:18 AM	Thelma & Louise	Still having a great time here in Mzuzu. Unfortunately our pulling vehicle has been giving us grief. Should be ok now as the battery has been charged and it actually starts. Had a bit of a drama the other night when our taxi into town rolled down the hill then ran out of petrol. Result being that we walked in the pitch dark to a restuarant with only Chris' phone torch for light. Another rule broken!! Being very good. Getting up for Mass at 5.45am and we've even invigilated some exams. Had the kids over for a visit which was quite sad. Even remembering to take the Malaria tablets washed down with beer. We have three points for Eric & Sheila: Eric: You have been offered Clement's granddaughter as a personal gift. You now know that it is very rude to refuse a gift in Malawi so we'll bring her back with us. Hope Elaine doesn't mind. Sheila: What's this about an African party in our absence? I take it the preparations for our welcome home party are well under way. How's the voice? Are you still pursuing your second career with chatlines? Books: Eric & Sheila can you remember the books we read at the Hotel? We have arranged to reread them tonight but can't remember whose is whose. Some assistance on this matter would be appreciated. Please text.
7/6/2005 10:26:38 AM	Marianne	Arrived in Mzuzu yesterday. The jouney was broken up with a short visit to Janet's house, two hours later we left!! The street kids were all in awe of our beautiful car. Mr Ziba keeps asking for Eric,and Clement has written Eric a letter so that should be arriving in the next few months!! Pat and Chris have been great and as it is a holiday today we celebrated last night in true Malawian style with a visit to Ilala - yes we did venture out at night! Took car into town today only to discover the battery was cold - can you imagine a street full of children, Chris, Pat, Bernadette and I trying to push start a Nissan - unfortunately no one had a camera with them!
7/5/2005 8:08:04 PM	Eric	Some thoughts now that I have returned from two-day transfer of elder daughter to Warwick for the summer. The trip was a quite memorable experience and I am certain that the good which our visit seemed to do while we were there will last for a long time. We are already looking forward to the visit of the Malawian staff and pupils next March - so watch this space. Hopefully "Thelma and Louise" will be able to add the odd update over the next two or three weeks - good luck to them with their further work in Mzuzu.
7/4/2005 7:46:58 PM	Bernadette&Marianne	Still alive!! Survived our first night time drive. Fr. Robert was in his usual good form. When Marianne refused to eat pork he asked if she were Muslim or a member of Al Quaeda!! Managed to floor Bernadette when asked if she had met up with Ezekiel yet - not the done thing to say in Malawi and didn't even know he knew. Haven't come across any good books yet. Offered a couple in Mua but were substandard. Roll on Mzuzu!! Bernadette is only 20 away from Lou Lou's snake score so be afraid! Setting off for 5 hour drive to Mzuzu tomorrow with our Malawian tapes to listen to. Will try to post a message on Thurs to let you all konw we are safe and sound with Chris and Pat in Mzuzu!
7/4/2005 4:24:02 PM	Bernadette	Monire! Still surviving our African adventures even with 3 power cuts in 3 days! Managed to find Mua on third attempt. Eric - road maps really only useful when accompanied by road signs!! Mua was great and very interesting eventhough I had been before. There is a museum in 3 parts which show the history of the Malawian tribes and their present customs. Their coming of age ceremonies are not something I would like to experience personally. It's been really quiet without the group - we're missing them. We've only been having at most 2 beers a day would you believe. Mass in Mua reminded me of home. The children from the blind boarding school were there and the boys misbehaved all during Mass. Punishment was being pulled out by the nuns to sit with the girls while the others pointed and laughed. Children are the same everywhere. Made it safely back to Lilongwe and went to meet Fr. Robert Mwangulu who is the General Secretary of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi - big chief. He's invited us to go back for dinner tonight - our first venture out in the dark - sorry Eric another rule broken!!
7/4/2005 2:52:57 PM	Marianne	We have managed to drive to and from Mua (saw many lovely rocks) and are back at our home from home - Nellie's. also managed to drive around the town and even a spot of DVD buying. Well, we have had 3 power cuts since you left us on Friday so we are living like true Malawians - dinner by candle light and cold showers by torch light!!! You all had an easy time of it!! The power has only just come back so finally a warm shower! We will let you know when we get to Muzuz. Hope everyone has settled back at home xx
7/2/2005 8:39:47 AM	Eric	Safely arrived at Heathrow airport after long but ok flight from SA. Everyone is looking forward to seeing mums, dads, wives and random others but already the pupils have said they wish they were still in Malawi! Great trip - and one which will have a lasting impact I am sure.
7/1/2005 5:50:21 PM	Marianne	We waved goodbye to half the party today. Bernadette and I got practice driving in the Lilongwe roads - quite fun.
7/1/2005 5:50:20 PM	Marianne	We waved goodbye to half the party today. Bernadette and I got practice driving in the Lilongwe roads - quite fun.
7/1/2005 5:26:54 PM	Bernadette	We said our fond farewells at Lilongwe Airport this afternoon as 6 of our group jetted out of Malawi and back home. It was actually quite sad as the 8 of us have got on so well over the past 2 weeks and really became like a family unit. We will really miss Eric, Sheila and the 4 kids and we'll even miss the daily slaggings that Eric gave us (it was well reciprocated I can assure you!). We now have our luxury vehicle and have been buzzing about Lilongwe in it all day. Daddy Eric gave it the once over this morning, checking the spare tyre etc. On his insistence we have even bought a road map. So far so good - it has only broke down once! Tomorrow we head to Mua, the first Catholic Mission in Malawi. It was set up by the White Fathers. We will stay there for 2 nights then return to Lilongwe for 1 night before going back to Mzuzu on Tuesday. Louise - I've now reached over 2000 so I think within a couple of days I'll be reigning champion again! I'll post a message again on Mon evening.
6/30/2005 7:57:52 PM	Bernadette	Hi all! Well I've now seen all of the African big 5. After failing to see a leopard 2 years ago I thought my luck had run out yet again when with 30 mins left of our last game drive we has seen everything bar a leopard. It was a great moment! The others have missed out on a rhino as they don't have them in the Zambian Game Reserve. I saw rhino in Malawi last time. The Safari was great fun. Just what we needed after the hectic schedule last week. I can't believe I'll be waving them all off at the airport tomorrow then it's "girls on tour" as Marianne and I do a bit of travelling in our donated car. I'm looking forward to spending some time with my little kids in Mzuzu when we go back next week and catching up with old friends. We'll try and keep the log page going but it will be difficult. We will probably post messages twice a week. Thanks for all the support everyone at home has given us both before and during the trip. The messages have been great to read.
6/30/2005 7:49:50 PM	Marianne	Now we are at the end of the two weeks. All of it has been incredible. The safari was amazing - I'm sure you can tell from the pictures. It will be strange waving goodbye to Paul, Kevin, Louise, Chris, Eric and Sheila tomorrow as we all have got on well. After the airport Bernadette and myself will be ready to start our mini tour, picking up the car tomorrow from the Bishop ! The roads in Mzuzu wont know whats hit them!
6/30/2005 7:39:55 PM	Eric	Have ditched group webmaster persona so that I can write a personal note! What a fantastic trip this has been with some of the best pupils and staff I have ever had the privilege to work with. I am extremely proud of all of them. It only seems like yesterday that we set off into the unknown and here we are contemplating the journey home - the whole experience has been incredible and the diary entries and photos can't do it justice. Can't wait to see my three girls - missed all of you so much! xxxxxxxxxx PS Hope James hasn't spent too much on my wake now that we have survived the terrors of the African bush!
6/30/2005 7:32:23 PM	Sheila Taylor	Well the end is nigh. What an adventure. We saw elephants up very close and personal and a couple of leopards too. Malawi is red earth, the land of fires glowing everywhere and no real villages but scattered houses. Roads full of people going nowhere in particular but women carrying suitcases, sugar cane and shopping on their heads. Thanks for all your messages. Love to you all. See you on Saturday Andrew and Ross.
6/30/2005 6:15:57 PM	Paul Harvey	Hello everybody. How are you all? Did you all survive wothout hearing from your loved ones? We are all fine... i have managed to infect all with my cold and am only just getting better. The safari was "pure dead brilliant" you all should have come.(little evil laugh to self). Oh mum just thought you should know that i care so much for your rock that i lugged it all round Zambia!!!! Nyways just a wee shorty. Missing you all much and will be home causing havoc soon enough. Mother have aquired taste for Amarula please purchase as is cheaper in UK. Ta mucho. Love you mum and even mick. Hope you are all taking care of selves, a general one to everyone. ohh before i go could you all please put in your enttries PURE and RANDOM. 3 PARTS is an optional one. Ta much the lovable rogue Paul.
6/30/2005 5:42:25 PM	Chris	Hiya everyone. Safari was unbelievable saw lions, giraffes, leapords, buffalo and sooo many more! Looking forward to seeing you all again but don't really want to leave. The trip has seemed so short (definetly coming back). Must admit i am really looking forward to my first pizza or chippy! Bye bye for now see you at 12.30 on Saturday.
6/30/2005 5:15:35 PM	Louise	Hey John! IM FINE HOW ARE YOU! thats great news that u might be finishing!yay! did u ever hear anything about that job in Dalry? yeah ive got a little bit of a tan. We will b bk at glasgow airport at half 12 on saturday!this will be my last message as we leave to go home tomorrow. Hopefully my mum will remember to bring you but if not ill fone you when i get in ok! lv u mwah!!x x x x x
6/30/2005 5:12:18 PM	looby lou	hey people! safari was good. we are now back at Nelly's. dins is at half seven so we have got a little free time. we get back to the airport at half 12.k. anyway see you at the airport! bye bye xxx
6/30/2005 3:43:12 PM	Eric	We are now back in Lilongwe and I am about to try to do the update for the last few days with photos and diary comments – wish me luck. The journey was long, dusty and tiring and the rest have disappeared into a long, hot shower – something which was notable by its absence both in Mzuzu and on safari. Lots of love to everyone. If this is successful, then the others will enter their own diary notes later. That's all of the previously written entries now entered - ignore the date/time and use your imagination as to when they were actually written - only this last message is 'live'.
6/30/2005 3:41:34 PM	Eric	Up again at 5.00 a.m. for dawn drive. Martin the driver promised that we would get to see elephants of which we had only seen one yesterday and he was as good as his word. We saw several groups as well as two lionesses up close and personal – we were only 5 yards away from two of them who were sheltering from the heat under a bush! Giraffes were another significant feature of this morning’s safari with several groups being spotted and helpfully posing for photographs! After trying unsuccessfully again for a time, we have given up on the Zambian internet connection, the connection for which appears to be permanently busy! I have e-mailed Bernard McCabe and asked him to reassure parents that no-one had been eaten/mauled/savaged and that the silence is technological rather than anything else! The highlight of the afternoon drive was undoubtedly the spotting of two leopards, thus giving Bernadette the ‘full house’ of the Big Five – elephant, lion, buffalo, rhinoceros and leopard. There are no rhino in South Luangwa (she had seen one previously in Malawi) so the rest of us are still one short! The evening finished with a ‘braii’ (barbecue) beside the camp fire – an excellent end to an excellent safari.
6/30/2005 3:41:00 PM	Eric	Having difficulty getting internet to work as Zambian phone line has been busy every time I have tried today (about 8 – 10 times in total). Going to keep trying tomorrow, however can’t do it tonight as the phone has to be powered via a car battery and the driver has disappeared for his dinner! Today’s safaris (dawn and dusk) were superb – hippos, puku, impala, lions, an elephant, crocodiles, buffalo, giraffes, water buck, baboons, monkeys, hyenas, genets, civets, zebras and lots of different species of multi-coloured birds to name but a few. The sunrise and sunset were also tremendous. The group continue to get on really well together – the pupils have been an absolute credit to themselves, their families and the school. It’s now 9.30 p.m. and everyone is already in bed – up at 6.00 a.m. again tomorrow! Elaine, glad Elton was good. Looking forward to getting home on Saturday and seeing the lot of you. Missing you xxxxx.
6/30/2005 3:40:19 PM	Sheila	Nellie’s guest house was great. The trip to the safari took ages. Tents are ideal. The camp is beside a river and it is idyllic. Last night elephants wandered through the camp at 2am – the guards were watching them but in my tent I was rather worried (understatement) at all the noises. The others slept through most of it!!!!! Only Louise and Bernadette heard it too. Safari today was unbelievable – giraffes, elephants, crocodiles, impala, warthogs, buffaloes, hippos (they are in the river just now and keep making the most awful noises) and some fabulous looking birds. Thanks for all the messages. Love to all, Sheila
6/30/2005 3:39:37 PM	Eric	Today we travelled for around 7 hours on roads, ranging from pretty poor to absolutely appalling, from Lilongwe to South Luangwa National Park where we are staying for the next 3 nights in platform tents right on the edge of the Luangwa River. The discomfort of the journey was more than made up for by the sighting of a giraffe, an elephant, two hippos (fighting!) and an antelope-type animal within the first hour of arriving. We have 5 tents together and our own eating area with chef; we also have our own guide and guards. It is now 8.00 p.m., pitch dark and 2 of our group have already gone to bed! The rest of us are sitting around an open fire, singing hymns (yes, really!) and listening to the sounds of the Zambian night – lions in the distance (the far distance, I hope), hippos and hyenas. Tomorrow (Tuesday), we set off at 6.00 a.m. for a 4-hour dawn drive – so I suspect it will not be long before the rest of us hit the sack. After the drive, I will try to get today’s messages and some photos onto the web – wish me luck! No mobile phone signals here so we are out of contact until Thursday evening when we return to Lilongwe. Thanks to everyone for keeping in touch.
6/30/2005 3:38:21 PM	Paul	Hey all. I bring a message of evening cheer to you all. As I write this little chapter I should say that the screen is being over run with beasties. Yesterday we all went to mass which was truly remarkable. The singing was out of this world in the local mass and there were about 1000 people there, a first for me. They all had a good laugh at us jingling our way towards the collection plate. We then said all of our goodbyes to all our friends and began our little trek back to the capitol. Had a stop over in the guest house which was really quite nice. This bring us now today. We all got up rather early and headed to our big beast of a range rover. Many hours later we crossed one of the strictest border crossing I have ever been across….NOT. It consisted of one little house and a small gate. After a small jaunt we reached Zambia which was also on par with Fort Knox….. Right ok have now been told that you know this bit so I will jump to now when I am sitting in front of a gorgeous fire listening to the sounds of the jungle. Missin you all so much and am thinking of you all mwah mwah and am still think of you at dawn and dusk . xxxxxxxx
6/30/2005 3:36:54 PM	Kevin	Hey everyone. Sitting by the fire looking at the stars and listening to a lion roaring somewhere. This is the life ! ! ! Dad, to answer your question I haven’t found Guinness but I did find a suitable stout substitute. LOL. We’re going on our first safari tomorrow and I can’t wait because in the few hours of light we have already seen hippos, a giraffe and an elephant. See you soon.
6/30/2005 3:35:24 PM	Chris	Hiya it’s me. We are in Zambia in the safari camp. Went on safari this morning from 6am till 10am, saw a giraffe, lion, deery things, zebra, elephant and buffalo and much more! It was amazing. The tents are pretty cool as well as we have actual beds and bedside tables. Going on a night safari tonight really looking forward to it. Tell Martyn really well done on passing his exams. Bye bye xxxxx
6/30/2005 3:34:29 PM	Louise	Hey everyone! I’m having great fun sitting in front of a camp fire singing songs! We can hear the sound of hippos behind us - amazing! Tomorrow, we have to get up at 5am - shocking! We stayed at Nelly’s guest house last night. It was good because there were comfy beds and hot showers! Hey to Michael, Kate, Av and Ally, Mum, Dad, Patrick and John. The camp site is cool - there is a clean pool and it is right next to the Luangwa river; we have already seen hippos, giraffe and some kind of other thing that looks like a deer. Anyway I better go everyone else needs to type messages! Bye bye bye x x x
6/26/2005 9:52:37 PM	sheila	Having a great time. Kids are brilliant , never a bad word from us all. Staying at a luxury - well it has enough hot water for us all - guest house. Cannot wait until the safari tomorrow. Tell Aunti Fi the toothbrushes were the ideal gift. Missing you all. Agnes, Morag, Bernard and Gillian thanks for the messages. I have found a new refreshment called Amarula - like Baileys - purely medicinal. Love to Ross and Andrew - I'll be home soon.
6/26/2005 9:47:06 PM	Chris	in Nelly's guest house going on safari tomorrow realyy excited probably last message till i get home ps. tell mum not to worry i'm fine!
6/26/2005 1:04:10 AM	IJD	Do not expect a Sunday evening update, as telecoms are complicated for one night. Also, do not expect more than a very few photos next week, as I do not expect the safari group to be able to be on-line as many minutes as I have been at the home of Fr Ryan here in Mzuzu. Must get to bed. Will pack while the staff and pupils are at the English Mass. Will go to the colourful Chitumbuka service. Then a final quick bit of borehole business, and a bite of lunch, and the webmaster will disappear into cyberspace, leaving things to the lion-hunters.
6/26/2005 1:03:40 AM	Ian and Bobby	The President condemned a bullock to death as duty required (see photo), but he was absolved of blame because this act provided food for the whole village plus our group (except one pupil, initials CB). Boreholes have been examined, and Billy please release rest of funds due (see separate email). Attended induction dinner of Mzuzu Rotary’s new lady President this evening (we’re typing post midnight again), at which Bobby’s Black Label went into the auction and raised 5,500 kwachas. Thanks for supporting messages, Eric, Geraldine, Jim and others. Bobby’s also had a beer with the Bish. Rotary-wise, this has been an intensive week of the ideal blend of fellowship and service.
6/26/2005 1:00:30 AM	IJD	All the happy Malawi faces on the photos are genuine, the enjoyment of our group is real, but the logbook may not reflect what we know is also real – the maize which withered in the fields earlier in the year (see photos) - the mention of HIV/Aids everywhere in the media, in the clinic names, and in the teaching – the fast birth rate and high death rate making a gap which makes recovery more difficult – the many orphan centres – the tobacco trade suffering as lifestyles become healthier – the areas where firewood cutting leads to erosion – the textile manufacturers becoming importers as cheaper clothes come in. They appreciate help which does not lead to dependency, but encourages new attitudes and new skills. Quoting the Very Rev. speaking at the induction dinner tonight, they know that charities and NGOs must support Malawi for the sake of humanity, and that their government must settle down, attack the problems, and minimise corruption, and that they are facing a political and food crisis, and that their country needs all our prayers.
6/25/2005 11:46:35 PM	Eric	Just back from full day trip to Galamala village (2 hours south of Mzuzu) where the Rotary Club were officially presenting the village chiefs with their boreholes and we were presenting them with a water pump to help them to irrigate their crops and overcome the impact of the current famine and future famines. The whole bullock slaughtering thing went OK – I think the blood will come out of my shirt although I am not sure if it the bullock’s blood or Bobby Campbell’s (only joking, Maureen!). Also went to meet Bishop Zuza who has the world’s worst taste in shirts and the world’s most infectious laugh. We presented him with a quaich as a memento of our visit. Elaine & girls – sorry about the whole texting thing – it seems that it is just random whether yours get here (haven’t had one since I heard about Lynsey’s exams and Kirsty’s summer accommodation – well done, Lyns and go, Kirst!). Hope you enjoy Elton John tomorrow. Lots of love and miss you xxxxxxxxx. Colin & James – thanks for the messages – I nearly feel wanted! To everyone at school – you have absolutely no idea how much your generosity and support means to everyone here – the whole St Peter’s community is absolutely over the proverbial moon with everything that has been done for them by St Michael’s. No time for any more at the moment. Must dash off and have a cold shower (no other option here!) before we take the Head teacher and Chair of the School Committee, among others, for a meal to thank them for their hospitality during our week here. Tomorrow it’s English Mass at 7.00 a.m. and then the Chitambuka Mass at 10.00 a.m. – in the afternoon we head off for Lilongwe before hitting the safari trail on Monday. Wish us luck and I hope that we can access the internet while we are in Zambia otherwise the daily diary will come to an abrupt end. However, Ian D assures us that all will be well . . . .! WEBMASTER IJD ADDS: The system just needs a phone socket, and it's all tested, so it's up to them next.
6/25/2005 11:43:24 PM	Bernadette	Hi folks! This has been an amazing but totally hectic week. I’m really proud of the way the whole group have dealt with everything that has been thrown at them, and relished it as well. The people here have given us a welcome which is reserved for kings and heads of state so Eric has really lived up to his new name of “the big Head”. Even “St. Bernadetta” has to play second fiddle to him! Yesterday I met up with my friends, the stall holders, at Nkhata Bay. They all remembered me straight away, probably due to my mean haggling skills. I managed to negotiate great prices for everyone and freebies for myself! Today we went to Naz’s home village and I met his parents for the first time, which was quite emotional. I can recommend being full of bull though for some of the party that is nothing unusual! Heading out to the Mzuzu Hotel now for dinner and a couple of beers – well it is Saturday night!!
6/25/2005 11:42:21 PM	Chris	Went to the village today. Did meet the bull but didn't eat it. Tell mum if she is panicking then Don’t read any of Pauls messages. Bye for now! xxxx
6/25/2005 11:41:31 PM	Paul	Hello once again my avid followers!!! Today I meet a chief for the first time, and he wore a suit. We all went to the village where Father Naz comes from and met the folks, they were lovely but he made his mum sit on the ground. Ohh this is a good time to mention I now know how to cook dog, so if any unwelcome guests were/are in my bed I know what to do….. We are now, as everyone else has probably said, on our way to meet the bishop of Mzuzu, Malawi time. There is a beautiful sun set accompanying us on our journey tee hee and we just passed a make-shift golf course. I would say we are all well but I have infected most of the group with a cold…. Sorry. Apart from that things are good and tonight is our last night in Mzuzu so will make the most of it by sampling local cuisine. Missing everyone and hope that you are all well, mwah xxxxxxxxx
6/25/2005 11:37:58 PM	Marianne	Bernard, have used up 3 tapes in a week, so will have plenty of video footage not to mention photographs. Constantly on the go, the day seem to go in very quickly – every day is so different from the other – new sights, sounds and places. The Living Water night sounds good, will hear all about that when get back. Going to meet the Bishop of Mzuzu on route back from the village borehole.
6/25/2005 11:37:18 PM	Sheila	So far we’ve seen chickens, goats, bulls (before and after slaughter), mice, yaks, mosquitoes, rats, lizards and wonderful butterflies. Love reading all your messages, keep them coming. Going at a hectic pace here. Was at the borehole village today – really fascinating. Love to you all especially Andrew and Ross xxxxx
6/25/2005 11:36:42 PM	Louise	Hey john! Tried to write a message last night but for some reason it didn’t work. What have you been doing while im away! I bet your having a great time at work! hahahahahaha! we leave tomorrow to go to Lilongwe and we are staying in Nelly’s guest house for one night before we go on safari. I will look for a phone once we arrive ok! Send one back once you get this kk! bye bye bye x x x x
6/25/2005 11:35:47 PM	Louise	Hey! For some reason the message I wrote last night got lost so I’m writing another one. We are just on our way home from visiting the boreholes. I passed on the whole bull’s liver and heart. YUCK! Nkhata bay was brilliant yesterday! We were in lake Malawi on a raft! The sun was shining! Bought presents for everyone! Ask pat if he would prefer vodka instead of a wooden thing. Hey Michael and Kate! How is school?
6/24/2005 11:58:39 PM	Ian, Louise & Bobby	Ian, Louise & Bobby didn’t reach Nkhata Bay. Ian taught an extra tutorial to a keen pupil. Louise delivered extra books to Lunyangwa Primary. Bobby called on Sister Leontine at the Arts and Craft Centre. We three then visited a superbly decorated oratory in another organisation’s Community Building, then lunched in a Mzuzu restaurant, then had a meeting with the Director of Cadecom who organise the boreholes, then called in on a local science supplies agent, then reached Mzuzu shops at 3 pm, three days later than the rest of our group. Bobby has found a second wife, and Ian and Louise have postponed the Lake visit till 2007. After dinner with friends, we returned to let the other staff escape from the pupils, but they have all collapsed in bedrooms, so no friendly card games, just Ian the I.T. man preparing the day’s ten photos for the web. Can’t get Internet from here, so will put them on when we get back to where we’re staying. When does I.T. lose its attraction? – when uploading stuff at 12.30-12.45 am before the usual 6.00 am alarm clock. But it’s clear you’re all enjoying the comments and photos, so I don’t mind in the slightest – just apologies for posting an entry twice and spelling Lynsey wrongly after a week of constant activity. *** It is impressive just how much is being done, in quantity and in quality by so many NGOs tackling so many aspects of the health, water and education needs of the people of this country. What St Michael’s has and is doing at St Peter’s is tremendous and what Rotary’s science equipment is something which would not usually attract funding where there are so many other pressing needs. Off to bed, off to a village an hour and a half away tomorrow. Gonani (Good night) IJD
6/24/2005 11:45:03 PM	staff	Here are the messages the staff asked to be posted as they dashed out of the door for their one unsupervised evening away from the weans. Eric says: Received only one text. Two nights in England. Well done, Lindsay. Will text soon. Marianne says: Congratulations on your exam results, Stephen. Have a great grad ball. Bernadette says: Too busy having fun to write. Out of sight, out of mind. Sheila says: Hope the play went well, Ross. Love to you and Andrew.
6/24/2005 11:44:18 PM	Paul	Hello all my little followers and welcome to another instalment in the big Malawi House. Hope that you are all well and fighting fit. After contracting and healthy dose of the cold I can finally report that I have finally, after 2 days, infected the rest of the group . We were all at the orphanage last night and it was really quite amazing to see all the savannah rats. This morning we presented the equipment to St Peter’s but they particularly liked the brush teeths!!! They also got told about the return visit which caused a great deal of mumbling. Today we had a day of rest and went to Nkata Bay on Lake Malawi, called lake Nyasa meaning lake lake, but anyways got a few things even a gift for the dog so I can be absolved for any responsibility for the next year or so. We got a chance to see the expert haggler, Bernie, at work!!! We went up to a little village and most definitely did not look at the lake, go near the lake, take a step closer to it, decide to hop on a dug out canoe, fall in, go for a swim, ride on the back of a pick-up or even consider completely ignoring the risk assessment. But we are all ok so no needless worrying and please when we get back, to the mums of Chris and Louise, please make my death quick.
6/24/2005 11:43:35 PM	Kevin	Hey everyone, just a quick hello. I’m just trying to get all my stuff back into my case for safari, and lacking mum’s magic touch failing miserably. Went to the goodbye assembly and Nakata Bay today to relax. As the last few days have been hectic. Anyway, have to go and I’ll see you all soon, Kevin.
6/24/2005 11:42:27 PM	Chris	Hiya Everyone. Went to Nkhata Bay today it was amazing bought soooo many things. Went to Mary Martha orphanage yesterday it was the hardest part so far they seemed so desperate for anything we could offer. Hey Jenn (from everyone) - thanks for sending us a message it was nice to hear from you. Used three cameras already so I’ll show you them all when I get back so much to say I have written a diary so I can remember it all! Thanks for sending me a message Isobel sorry I missed the AGM thanks for the teddy my dad told me about it. I will come and show you all my photos when I get back. Hey Holly missing you loads. Tell Connor and Erin I said hi. Having a fabulous time (may even get a tan) So finally Pawemi (goodbye) everyone see you soon! PS from Webmaster: I think Louise did a message before this but didn’t save it right. IJD
6/23/2005 9:29:01 PM	Mr D	It's taking quite a time, even clicking fast through this and that, to update photos and things, and the dial-up connection means that ten even edited photos take 15 minutes on the line even before cutting and pasting messages written off-line, and checking your messages to us. So, expect the number of photos to be absolute max 10 a day, and perhaps falling a bit even below that. Cheers, all. The whole trip is proving extremely useful as well as enjoyable. IJD. PS Nice messages, specially yours, Alix. IJD
6/23/2005 9:24:35 PM	General Thurs Report	The second day of lessons, with the three Rotarians off to lunch at the Mzuzu Hotel. Afternoon saw a farewell assembly from St Peter’s, with us getting individual thank-you gifts, plus beer and chicken, and the pupils getting juice and buns. (Message to Andy H. – Bobby had a green beer.) Then off (late, being Malawi time) to the Mary Martha Orphan Centre in the countryside outside Mzuzu, with many speeches, and no time left to play games with the orphans before nightfall, plus a local-style buffet meal. Weather pleasantly warm but not hot, after initial rain during periods 1 and 2. Still haven’t found any mozzies.
6/23/2005 9:22:57 PM	Bernadette	Hi all, I’m having a wonderful time. It’s great to see all my Malawian friends again although we haven’t managed to catch up with Rodwin and Wisdom yet. The whole group are having a fantastical time joining in at everything and we are having a great laugh as well. My body is smelling great too!!! Bernadette
6/23/2005 9:21:56 PM	Paul	Hey ho my avid followers!! All is well Had yet another truly amazing day. WE all went to orphanage and gave gifts to the kids tee hee they laughed. Still working on the rock…. Hope all is well. Saying hi to all specially Gran and granddad and of course my little Phil xxxxx. Ohh meet Leo’s cousins ta ta ta
6/23/2005 9:20:58 PM	Marianne	Monire (Hello), Arrived safely and so eventually did my luggage – lived like a true Malawian for 3 days with NO clothes, borrowing items from everyone (including a tee - shirt from Eric) can you imagine me in Sheila’s clothes!! I have taught 8 times in the school, what an eye opener, no chalk, 3 pupils to a desk and limited lighting. Today we visited a Mary Martha Orphan Care Centre. The children were overjoyed to receive 2 penny sweets, a Happy Meal toy, and a pencil. It was humbling to say the least. Bernard – The DVD is on route and plenty of worksheets left on desk!!! Mum – Congratulations on passing your SQH – I knew you could do it – we are all saying well done!! Bye
6/23/2005 9:19:32 PM	Mr Allan	Monire. Muli uli mose? (Greetings. How are you all?) Just a brief note from the Big Head (as I was described by one of the teachers today – no comments please!). This is a fabulous experience. Have taught 8 classes over the past 2 days – yes, I still remembered how to – starting at 7.30 a.m. in classrooms with 3 kids to a desk and chairs being shared etc. I am also totally speeched out – everywhere we go and everyone we meet wants a speech; today I spoke at a full school assembly and to all the orphans and staff at Mary Martha Orphan Care, none of whom speak English which makes the task ever so slightly difficult. However, everyone is so grateful to us which is a bit humbling considering how little we can do for them. Have been told that my time is up so have to go!
6/23/2005 9:18:47 PM	Louise	Hey Michael and Kate! Hope you had fun at the fire station. No we do not sleep in tents but we will next week. It has been very exciting so far! Been at school and met lots of new people. We saw Malawians dressed up and dancing with spears!very good! We are going to Nkhata Bay tomorrow! Write back soon bubi!! Hey mum and dad! Having fun! School was ok kinda weird! We Nkhata Bay tomorrow. Shopping!yay! anyway there is a que so I better go! Bye xx
6/23/2005 9:17:43 PM	Chris	Hiya (monire) this place is amazing as I said yesterday we had a welcome ceremony we were danced into the hall. We were told that this was the way they greet presidents and kings it was actually a little overwhelming! Anyway gotta go bye bye (Pawemi).
6/23/2005 9:16:19 PM	Sheila	Hello to everyone. This is absolutely amazing. We have been teaching at the school for the last two days – you’ve no idea - no chalk, no electricity, water coming in when it is raining and classes of 68. Everyone is just so friendly and helpful. We have hot water for the shower – well for the first two people. We were at the orphanage today – that would break your heart. Love to Andrew and Ross, missing you both and hope you are well. Hope mum and Fiona are reading the computer too. It has been so good to hear all your messages and we dash to read them every night. Paweemi (Bye) Sheila
6/23/2005 9:15:20 PM	Kevin	Hey everyone. I am having at great time. We are being treated like celebrities and it feels so weird. Was at school today and yesterday and it was interesting doing subjects like agriculture. There was a concert yesterday and there were Malawians dressed up with spears and shields and they walked us in following a procession reserved for kings and heads of state. Anyway, talk to you soon and hope you had a nice time in Rome. Bye, Kevin
6/22/2005 10:09:23 PM	Louise	Hey mummy!hahaha!we had a great day today. Went to school, then we played netball, had a brilliant welcoming concert. The Malawians sung loads of songs and we did the gay gordons and sung marie’s wedding. Tonight me Chris, Paul and Kevin visited a girl from schools house. We looked at photos and then travelled back to the house on the back of a pick up truck and learned the Malawian national anthem. It was great! By the way Marianne got her case back!bye bye pawemi!(goodbye)
6/22/2005 10:08:46 PM	Chris	Hiya really short note to say this place is fabulous and I am writing a diary so wil tell you all when I get home.
6/22/2005 10:08:10 PM	Paul	Hey ho all you little scamps! I am having an ab fab time. Was greeted by a unbelievable chorus of girls. We meet all the primary schools and they had a good laugh at me, nothing changes. I was at school today and had a blast. I had to start with three Malawian teachers…ekk. We were officially welcomed with a dance reserved for Kings and Presidents. Tried to join in…… After we went to a girl form schools house who had a brother named Paul and saw a Guineafowl. Emm will try and find a stone and well done Phil miss you much.
6/22/2005 10:07:29 PM	Ian and Bobby	The Rotary project meetings have gone superbly well. On Tuesday Bobby, Ian and Louise were shown around the university facilities, seeing the needs at first hand, after which there was a special meeting in their boardroom, with several key heads of department, at which we discussed, for over an hour, what particular targets the next stage of the project could try to meet, including initiating assistance between the St Peter’s Secondary and Mzuzu University, which has an unusually strong element of community outreach. On Wednesday afternoon, the three of us had over an hour of discussion with the main science teacher, Mr Mughogho, on the details of the science equipment. The science equipment will dynamically improve the education, as pupils will for the first time have practical lessons and for the first time move to a different room for one of their subjects. The three of us look forward to tomorrow’s Rotary lunchtime meeting.
6/22/2005 10:06:49 PM	General Wed Report	Wednesday saw all the pupils in all classes, and Scottish teachers taking four classes each – the pupils have nine 40-min periods sitting twoor three to a desk in rooms with no lighting and no glass in the windows, mostly sitting still. Last period today was a sports period. After that was a grand welcoming concert where there was lots of Malawi music and dancing, followed by a presentation to our group of a beautiful bowl and picture, followed by our group doing a Scottish song and dance, much to their delight – the Scottish music went down a treat. Bobby refereed a school football practice match, and recommends a number of possible signings of Kilmarnock.
6/21/2005 8:58:38 PM	Ian	After 34 hours between Ayrshire and Mzuzu, we just crashed to bed on Monday evening. Tuesday has been busy, and the first chance to get stuff on has been this evening (Tuesday), unless some of the group tried the Internet place in town. The pictures tell the story for the moment. We are noting lots of experiences in notebooks. We are being welcomed, we are enjoying every minute, and both St Michaels and Rotary are discussing next stage planning with the people living in what they rightly call ‘the warm heart of Africa’. THANKS for all the messages, just picked up on our first Internet access (Tues. eve). Will pass them to the group tomorrow morning at school (St Peter's!)
6/19/2005 2:32:42 PM	lou and crew	Hey we're going to malawi! o and then going to the safari! Hey from everyone - munching our last sweets before we leave !!
6/19/2005 2:26:05 PM	Ian & Bobby	Just letting Shirley & Margaret know that we haven't taken long to find Internet, and are now in the departure lounge at Gate 23 at Glasgow (2.25 pm). Cheers, Ian
4/27/2005 7:48:00 PM	IJD	Louise C. has tested out the messages from family section, so we know that greetings can be received over the miles using our web pages. We can then use this page to say thanks for your message. Pawemi ('bye' in chitumbuka)
4/23/2005 9:06:41 PM	IJD	The group had an overnight session at Smithstone House on April 22/23. We learned some Chitumbuka words, we heard about Malawi education, government, etc, we discussed what photos and clothes to take, and what to expect, we decided what songs we would have ready, and what dances (including a demonstration Reel of the 51st), and we had a Malawi style meal prepared by Bernadette. All very enjoyable - and useful.

 

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