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I realize this is a day or so early but we have visitors coming (they're flying over Guinea right now) but I wanted to write some thoughts before they arrive... I went for a run this morning around Gaborone and couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we have had these past 4 + months. As we approach the year 2008, I thought it would be a good thing to reflect on some of the highlights of our life here. This is mainly for myself, not for you.. I just wanted to list them, because my mind is like a steel trap.... If I don't do it now, I'll forget it...
- Our arrival in Botswana, stepping off the plane and onto the runway, as people stared at us through a chain link fence, we were so excited, scared, overjoyed that we made it... then walking into the airport to see all of our bags had arrived safely... The place was so quiet, clear and cool, felt like we had just stepped onto the surface of Mars.
- Waiting for everything, learning how to live and be patient "Africa time"
- seeing the kids adjust, never complaining and rolling with the punches
- How our attitude has changed dramatically within the past few months, overcoming culture shock and settling in...this had alot to do with the arrival of the car and our friend Celeste.
- Meeting the people in Gabane and the wait staff in every single place that we've stayed in that pick up our kids, want to have keep them or marry them in 30 years (Jude)
- the women and men here who constantly tellinng us that we are 'rich' because of the fact that we have 5 kids... They tell us we are blessed and that we should be thankful for our large family.. Puts things in perspective considering the state of affairs here.
- The sunsets, the light and the overall atmosphere of this place
- seeing Michelle at work and realizing in person why we came in the first place... even though this place is wonderful, the reality is sad and seeing her doing her work and a clinic full of sick children that are awaiting treatment which will help them live normal lives, made the time, money and effort that it took us to get here all worth while.
- The drakensburg mountains.
- Jude and franny walking, talking and playing with each other.
- And of course our families, who we hope will miss us dearly this holiday.. we'll miss you too and be thinking of you.
- Lizards,lizards, lizards and no snakes.... yet
- Our guards Steven and James saying hellos to us each and every time they see us, despite the fact that they work every day, for peanuts
- Jacob and Kate's school... awesome
- Maura's friend "bubby" whoever the hell that is..
- The ability of the women here to carry anything and everything on their head, from piles of sticks, clothes, sacks of maize, etc., while having a baby strapped to their back, and carrying other bags in their hands.... I have to get a photo of that.... Hats off.
- Receiving packages from home , email and THANK GOD FOR INSTANT MESSAGING!!!
- Windhoek Lager, Windhoek Lager and Windhoek Lager(especially during the months of September and October...... well and November and December too..
A friend of mine asked if I could find any local music to give them.. Well on Sunday mornings, they play traditional Botswana music for a few hours and then follow it up with a great jazz show.... No "breakfast with the beatles" here.... Anyway, I was able to tape some of the show, and plan to do so every so often.. The music is cool and really gives me a sense that we are no where near home.. Here's the link.... there's no pictures, just sound. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktUbmYmq1PE
Merry christmas and much love to all.
