Thoughts from Mama Lynne

Notes from Mama Lynne:

The shelves that we ordered are now up and looking great. It helps the bathroom in both the kids and volunteers to stay organized, which is always a hard task in Africa! TIA (This is Africa)
The wall is still in progress. We often look outside to see the workers laying on the dirt and we go out there asking what are they doing and they jump to work. ha The tile in the kitchen is also done now. Rehema is so happy and is so excited because the tile has green in it and that is her favorite color!
We introduced the kids today to the game of Twister which we brought along thinking it is a good way to teach left and right and colors. It was not easy to get them to understand but they did giggle tried their best which they always do. The pictures are so cute. the days go quickly.
We usually go into town almost every day for bottled water and fresh fruit and bread. Those trips are never quick as the roads are very rough and the avtivity along the way is fascinating. We definately stand out. A couple days back Jac and I took a peke peke (moped type of bike). into town. As the driver squeezed between a car and a dola dola (bus) a guy reached out and tried to touch my hair! the driver said no worry they like to touch Mazuga's hair! Today we purchased an singer type sewing machine for Rehema touse to mend the childrens clothes and to make some new. She may also be able to make some extra shillings by mending other people's clothes as well. She was again so happy and grateful. Getting it home is a whole other story which I'll save till we get home.

Supper is usually served about 7:00 and is actually quite tasty. Lots of carbs They do their cooking outside over a small fire. They use lots of fresh tomatoes, onions and potatoes, rice and beans. A meal always includes some fruit.Tonight we had watermelon. So to say the least we won"t be loosing any weight! The children all clean up the meal,wipe down the tables and sweep the floor. then they have play time again whcih can be pretty crazy. Last night and tonight however the electricity powered by solar, ran out. It has been overcast for a couple of days, we are in the dark. So everyone is in their beds and it is only 8:30. It'll be an early morning tomorrow.
This such a simple life. Very beautiful in a way. I'm still struck by the exteme proverty yet people smile and carry on. We could all benefit from the Afican philosphy of hakunamata,(no worry). Their are a million stars out tonight.
There has been a few other volunteers here than we were aware were going to be here. It has been great meeting them and finding out what brought them here and in many instances what has brought them back as in Jac's case.
In the remaining days we have digging to do and vines yet to plant. We took a break and let our blisters heal some. Now will finish the project before we leave.
Lights here at Karim have been out for awhile(literally) it is time to read by flashlight, reflect and join the others who are resting comfortably in their new home.
Love from Africa.
Lynne and Jac