Super Jimmy and other Christmas Hero's

Hello All,

Well I'm sitting here at the internet cafe in Chintheche while Marc is doing the ward round at the hospital and I thought I's post a Christmas Blog to you all.

Last week was a busy one as the Pre-school's finished last Friday so I was busy with the Co-ordinator Jimmy (otherwise known as Super Jimmy) making the final rounds before Christmas. I even managed to get Marc to come with us on Friday to join in with the little ones which always put a smile on anyone's face. After they got over the initial shock of having another Mzungu at their school it was all smiles. (Remember the last time he saw the little ones he was giving measles jabs to them - so you can understand their slight apprehension.)

Patrick, Marc and I also put on a little Xmas party for the Mazembe Community English Group. We made little banana cup cakes with bright pink icing and they had a great time. When we arrived there were signs on the blackboard one saying "Highly apriciation for the Blessings Party". We were touched. He sang lots of songs and had lots of little treats and we even did the 'dokey dokey' again. Marc loved it! He often doesn't get to do the fun things in the community as he has a 'real job' at the clinic and hospital, so we made him come to the party to join in. The ladies did a Chilimika which is their traditions singing and dancing and had made up a song especially for Patrick and I. "Ama Lachael and Ada Patlick", (remember they can't say their r's!) We were truly touched.

Last Wednesday Marc and I went on a field trip to Dwambazi to visit Mr Kaipa and his farm. Marc, the ever 'keen bean' student farmer, wanted to learn as much as possible about his new found hobby. We had a lovely day out and were even provided with a spectacular lunch. I tagged along too, but learned very quickly not to trust when Mr Kaipa said 'It's not far. Very close, very close." I'm sure we walked for about 10kms! But it really was a great day out.

We had a very quiet weekend and intend to have a quiet one tomorrow. There are 4 of us for Xmas and Harry is coming to cook our meal (he wouldn't have it any other way!). We are having champagne breakfast (thanks Dan and Tansy for the Moet), so don't feel too bad for us. It will be a lovely day in paradise where we'll eat until we feel uncomfortable and then have an afternoon nap. Not too different to home really!

Love to you all at Xmas/ Hanukkah and I hope you enjoy your time with your families. Love Rach (and Marc) xx

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