At least I managed to post this bit. I'll try to tackle photos from my latest adventures next week! (There are a few good ones)!
Happy Friday.
Friday, March 30, 2007
A tumultuous endeavour
As many of my blogs point out, one of the things that keeps me happiest here is volunteering with Breakthrough Sports Academy (BSA). I am so obviously proud of "my boys", and all of the work we do together. Mostly, they remind me I am a fortunate person, and that amidst all of the challenges we face, there is much fun to be had! I am inspired by these kids, & they have NO idea!
One of my dreams has been (falling alongside the goals of the greater BSA) to start up a girls BSA basketball team. The boys have been less than enthusiastic, and not one of them has recruited a sister or cousin or neighbour. I'm smiling, because they are going to have such a learning curve; the girls are coming out!!
I want to shed a little light on how challenging this commitment will be:
One of my dreams has been (falling alongside the goals of the greater BSA) to start up a girls BSA basketball team. The boys have been less than enthusiastic, and not one of them has recruited a sister or cousin or neighbour. I'm smiling, because they are going to have such a learning curve; the girls are coming out!!
I want to shed a little light on how challenging this commitment will be:
NB* I am not the full-time coach, but agreed to get the ball rolling (literally?) while on ‘leave’.
Day 1: I came to the courts with 3 female Zambian coaches (one played ball in Germany, one recently returned from Namibia after traveling with Zambia's Under 20 National team, and one is not a basketball star but is a wonderful leader). To my horror, not ONE girl came to the court to join the team. Needless to say I unloaded on the people who were recruiting, and my ultimatum was that I'm giving four days, & if no girls show interest, we have failed.
Day 2: Flip-side; I had 5 girls and I was the only coach!
Day 3: I knew I would be the only coach for the day, so I made a last minute SOS call to my friend Alinafe. Day 2 I had had a few problems with translating...my Nyanja isn't so great, & a couple of the girls didn't speak any English. Thank goodness Alinafe could help; we had our all-time high turnout- 8 girls. I never would have managed without him. (He’s also recently committed to being the Head Coach)!! Woohoo.
Day 4: I was disappointed because we dipped back down to 4 players. And I was again the only coach. Heart-wrenching note: I wanted to start a team register so I asked the girls to record their names, ages, & the name of the school they attend. Three of the four girls couldn’t write. They are aged 11-17 and my heart was broken. I still haven’t decided how we get those girls into better schools…but this is Lusaka (where they say the literacy rate is much higher than in reality- I believe).
Day 5: No one pitches...none of the 4 coaches I had recruited, and not one girl. (Granted, Alinafe did come by later…so he’s still in my good books)!
Day 6: Back up to Alinafe coaching, & 5-7 girls.
The Youth Basketball League had a meeting with all of the teams last Saturday. I thought it the perfect opportunity to introduce the wavering girl’s team to the whole league. Guess what- success! Five girls showed up, and they all became much more serious/ interested in playing. Now I'm overly optimistic & have no idea what will happen at the courts today*smile*. Though there should be 2 coaches, with me coming in after work. I'll most certainly keep you updated on our progress...I hope these girls create a space in my heart like my BSA boys have. I keep telling myself not to expect too much, or to be too optimistic because things never play out too easily here.
A friend at Right to Play donated a full kit for the girls, so now all we need are hoops...then we'll start the photo ops!!! Yeah, that’s probably the biggest feat of all- our only hoop taken down in December 2006 with the promise of a full court going up. Alas, it’s March 2007 & we’re still trying to patch the court so the hoops will come up as soon as possible. So that feat- we have two teams training for basketball without a court- we’re doing something right!!! The numbers are bound to go up once we have the full court (and of course our game will improve substantially).
With all of these struggles & frustrations, why am I so excited about the upcoming season? Must be the kids…
technical difficulties
So it seems I can no longer blog from work, I must be blocked or something (I'm grumpy because I used to go into the office early to do a few personal things, such as blog... & now I can't do it)
My plan is to still do some writing from the office & try to upload it from an Internet Cafe.
This will be attempt #1. I'm going to try to post some things that've been happening over the past couple of weeks.
Keep your fingers crossed!!!
My plan is to still do some writing from the office & try to upload it from an Internet Cafe.
This will be attempt #1. I'm going to try to post some things that've been happening over the past couple of weeks.
Keep your fingers crossed!!!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Good friends + Cheap rum = A great night!
As luck would have it, I've met a great Canadian girl here, also named Sarah. We always get the giggles during introductions because it seems to Zambians like most Canadian girls are named Sarah. (Walking down the street I am often assaulted by shouts of "Mary", "Jane" in attempts to catch my attention...but no one has yet successfully yelled out 'Sarah'. Sometimes people guess countries, I hear "America" a lot, but my favourite has to be "Russia").
I've digressed.
All I wanted to post is that we brought in Sarah's 20-something-th birthday in style! For those of you who haven't seen me in awhile, you'll be pleased to note that I haven't changed much; after a couple of drinks I still reach a shiny shade of red!
Me being goofy. As usual.
Sarah squared!
Most of the crew
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Victoria Falls via bike
Alvin & I met up with Kirstie & her brother Joel for a day of "keeping fit". It was too much fun.
Just making sure everything is in line before we start rolling.
Ain't no ride like...a stolen bike. Good ol'"ox" song stuck in my head for the whole day! And my only explanation for Kirstie is...her nickname is Jazzy*grin*
On our way to the sight (sound, smell & taste) of Mosi-ao-Tunya "The Smoke that Thunders", or thanks to David Livingstone, more famously known as one of the world's seven natural wonders- the Victoria Falls.
A piece of those Falls with Al & Joel ("Jazzy's" brother- visiting from Victoria, BC)
This is how we look AFTER the Falls. (We got drenched crossing the Knife Edge bridge, & I have to admit I behaved like a small child when I realized I could stand in the centre of a perfectly circular rainbow...or raincircle I suppose).
An attempt to balance (I think), en route to the boiling point.
A brief rest before our cycling journey back involved fending off hungry monkeys. So hungry in fact, they thought the crown would be delectable...until feeling threatened by she-primate Jazzy attacking with sandals. No monkeys were hurt. Promise.
Just making sure everything is in line before we start rolling.
Ain't no ride like...a stolen bike. Good ol'"ox" song stuck in my head for the whole day! And my only explanation for Kirstie is...her nickname is Jazzy*grin*
On our way to the sight (sound, smell & taste) of Mosi-ao-Tunya "The Smoke that Thunders", or thanks to David Livingstone, more famously known as one of the world's seven natural wonders- the Victoria Falls.
A piece of those Falls with Al & Joel ("Jazzy's" brother- visiting from Victoria, BC)
This is how we look AFTER the Falls. (We got drenched crossing the Knife Edge bridge, & I have to admit I behaved like a small child when I realized I could stand in the centre of a perfectly circular rainbow...or raincircle I suppose).
An attempt to balance (I think), en route to the boiling point.
A brief rest before our cycling journey back involved fending off hungry monkeys. So hungry in fact, they thought the crown would be delectable...until feeling threatened by she-primate Jazzy attacking with sandals. No monkeys were hurt. Promise.
The hiatus is OVER!
Hi all, sorry for being out of touch for some time. I took an abrupt two week holiday once I accepted my full-time position here in Lusaka. So much has happened I don't know where to start... the ‘holiday’ started & finished with a Canadian bang, perhaps I can go from there?!
Here is the skeleton update…photos to be added in future ‘blogs’:
- Headed off to Livingstone for a weekend of adventure with Kirstie (Canadian friend based
in Cape Town aka Jazzy). As the photos will reveal…we decided to cycle to the Victoria Falls, it was a wonderfully active day!
- Came back home & spent some time cleaning, baking, & plucking grey hairs (horrifying reality of ageing…with my 26th around the corner)
- Was able to start BSA GIRLS Basketball team (WOOHOO), I have envisioned something like this since my arrival in Lusaka 2.5 years ago. It will be a tumultuous season, of that I’m sure- and the details will have to be revealed in an upcoming blog.
- Made time to visit & putter, things I haven’t had time to do in AGES!
- My last weekend before career-dom included a visit from a good ol’ friend Kieran (know in these parts as "Mabvuto" = problems). He is here on business but we’ve managed to make time to over-indulge in food, basketball, talking and sun! It’s been a great surprise for many of us who first met Kieran when he worked here in- was it 2003-04?! The perfect reason to have a couple beers…right?!
It’s hard to believe my time off is already over, but I am excited about settling down into a new job! Photos to come…which means I’ll be in touch much more frequently now that I don’t have to scream at slooooow Internet connections in public places. Maybe that was the cause of the onset of more grey hair, hmm.
Ciao for now
Here is the skeleton update…photos to be added in future ‘blogs’:
- Headed off to Livingstone for a weekend of adventure with Kirstie (Canadian friend based
in Cape Town aka Jazzy). As the photos will reveal…we decided to cycle to the Victoria Falls, it was a wonderfully active day!
- Came back home & spent some time cleaning, baking, & plucking grey hairs (horrifying reality of ageing…with my 26th around the corner)
- Was able to start BSA GIRLS Basketball team (WOOHOO), I have envisioned something like this since my arrival in Lusaka 2.5 years ago. It will be a tumultuous season, of that I’m sure- and the details will have to be revealed in an upcoming blog.
- Made time to visit & putter, things I haven’t had time to do in AGES!
- My last weekend before career-dom included a visit from a good ol’ friend Kieran (know in these parts as "Mabvuto" = problems). He is here on business but we’ve managed to make time to over-indulge in food, basketball, talking and sun! It’s been a great surprise for many of us who first met Kieran when he worked here in- was it 2003-04?! The perfect reason to have a couple beers…right?!
It’s hard to believe my time off is already over, but I am excited about settling down into a new job! Photos to come…which means I’ll be in touch much more frequently now that I don’t have to scream at slooooow Internet connections in public places. Maybe that was the cause of the onset of more grey hair, hmm.
Ciao for now
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Last
Last: Zambian term that could mean many things depending on the situation, tone, or level of sarcasm. I couldn't think up a better way to describe the current confusion in my heart, body & mind.
I have waited months to make this announcement, & now that is comes to my moment of glory, I feel a twinge of sadness. The great news is, that after a ridiculously long interview process, I have (out of over 350 applicants) been selected for a permanent position under the Aid Section at the Canadian High Commission in Lusaka. I've waited nearly one month for the paperwork to clear- and it is now official! My title will be 'administrative assistant', however I feel like a more appropriate title would be: "development tourism officer". First I'm thrilled- it's a great step for my professional development (working for CIDA will be great on my C.V, I'm working in my field of recreational management/ international development, I get to pursue French classes once again etc etc), & personally- I will be able to plan the next couple of years with my Zambian boyfriend. I have stability, benefits, & for the first time in my life I'm kissing contract life 'good-bye'.
However I know the decision weighs heavy in the hearts of my parents, family, my friends, & especially my grandmother. In my heart, despite the people I miss daily, I'm sure this is the right decision for me. I have thrown myself whole-heartedly into Lusaka life, & I'm in no way ready to leave here. I suppose I just need everyone to know that my door will always be open, now that I know I'll be here for a while. The 'permanent' job will also provide me with the opportunity to travel home...let's plan for summer 2007!
Please, continue to keep me in the loop of all of the weddings, new babies, & events that take place from wherever you are reading this. News from home always keeps me afloat on my bad days, & connected on my good days!
I feel like somehow this is a new beginning, & I'm so excited for the opportunities that will continue flowing in my direction.
Last.
I have waited months to make this announcement, & now that is comes to my moment of glory, I feel a twinge of sadness. The great news is, that after a ridiculously long interview process, I have (out of over 350 applicants) been selected for a permanent position under the Aid Section at the Canadian High Commission in Lusaka. I've waited nearly one month for the paperwork to clear- and it is now official! My title will be 'administrative assistant', however I feel like a more appropriate title would be: "development tourism officer". First I'm thrilled- it's a great step for my professional development (working for CIDA will be great on my C.V, I'm working in my field of recreational management/ international development, I get to pursue French classes once again etc etc), & personally- I will be able to plan the next couple of years with my Zambian boyfriend. I have stability, benefits, & for the first time in my life I'm kissing contract life 'good-bye'.
However I know the decision weighs heavy in the hearts of my parents, family, my friends, & especially my grandmother. In my heart, despite the people I miss daily, I'm sure this is the right decision for me. I have thrown myself whole-heartedly into Lusaka life, & I'm in no way ready to leave here. I suppose I just need everyone to know that my door will always be open, now that I know I'll be here for a while. The 'permanent' job will also provide me with the opportunity to travel home...let's plan for summer 2007!
Please, continue to keep me in the loop of all of the weddings, new babies, & events that take place from wherever you are reading this. News from home always keeps me afloat on my bad days, & connected on my good days!
I feel like somehow this is a new beginning, & I'm so excited for the opportunities that will continue flowing in my direction.
Last.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Second Edition- Ladies Night in Lusaka
The only photo that turned out from the night...& also the only photo I didn't take!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Driving down Young Street on a Friday…
A bit of a random blog.
I was feeling so nostalgic the other day listening to some good ol’ K-OS Canadiana; and it reminded me of this young man’s impression of Canada. Let me set the context. I met Peter at the Sport for Social Change conference in Kenya. He is a part of MYSA’s (www.mysakenya.org) “Shootback” program- therefore filming and photographing the conference events. He had been invited to Vancouver for the launch of this book he was a part of publishing. The only thing he said to me was “China town”. I immediately started laughing as I recalled that notorious East Hastings is next to Vancouver’s Chinatown.
Isn’t that awful- this kid was horrified by the drugs, homelessness & addiction he saw in Vancouver. This is a kid who comes from one of Nairobi’s biggest slums. And Nairobi is infamous for Africa’s slum-life.
How’s that for perspective. I love awakenings like that!!
The next story is non-sequitor…but I have to share! I had a great evening yesterday as I was set for a ‘working day’ with my basketball team. (We’ve had an incredibly slow start to the 2007 season as we actually do not have a court). The agreement has been that we must patch the court, extend from the concrete into the grass line (which involves slashing the grass & turning/ leveling the soil) manually. Of course, this is not really a project suitable for a respectable mzungu woman. I find myself- as the sun is setting and emblazoning the wispy clouds across the sky- with an enormous pick-axe in hand. My commitment to the team is not only as a figurehead. I had the boys (& several older coaches) beside themselves with laughter as I swung the heavy axe to uproot the stubborn grass at my feet. I was so chuffed with myself! It was like heavy-duty gardening that I have been missing so much! I managed a small patch and felt at least a part of all of the work that was going on around me. And as we have less than a month before our league starts…we really need to make ourselves a court- keep your fingers crossed for us! Wish I had my camera...
I was feeling so nostalgic the other day listening to some good ol’ K-OS Canadiana; and it reminded me of this young man’s impression of Canada. Let me set the context. I met Peter at the Sport for Social Change conference in Kenya. He is a part of MYSA’s (www.mysakenya.org) “Shootback” program- therefore filming and photographing the conference events. He had been invited to Vancouver for the launch of this book he was a part of publishing. The only thing he said to me was “China town”. I immediately started laughing as I recalled that notorious East Hastings is next to Vancouver’s Chinatown.
Isn’t that awful- this kid was horrified by the drugs, homelessness & addiction he saw in Vancouver. This is a kid who comes from one of Nairobi’s biggest slums. And Nairobi is infamous for Africa’s slum-life.
How’s that for perspective. I love awakenings like that!!
The next story is non-sequitor…but I have to share! I had a great evening yesterday as I was set for a ‘working day’ with my basketball team. (We’ve had an incredibly slow start to the 2007 season as we actually do not have a court). The agreement has been that we must patch the court, extend from the concrete into the grass line (which involves slashing the grass & turning/ leveling the soil) manually. Of course, this is not really a project suitable for a respectable mzungu woman. I find myself- as the sun is setting and emblazoning the wispy clouds across the sky- with an enormous pick-axe in hand. My commitment to the team is not only as a figurehead. I had the boys (& several older coaches) beside themselves with laughter as I swung the heavy axe to uproot the stubborn grass at my feet. I was so chuffed with myself! It was like heavy-duty gardening that I have been missing so much! I managed a small patch and felt at least a part of all of the work that was going on around me. And as we have less than a month before our league starts…we really need to make ourselves a court- keep your fingers crossed for us! Wish I had my camera...
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
First Edition: Ladies Night Out Lusaka
For anyone who knows me...you will not be surprised to learn that I managed to get a group of gals together for out first "ladies night out". We hit up the ol' bowling lanes & had a blast. It's the first ladies night I've been to where there was NO alcohol, & no dancing!! Both absences have been requested to be top priorities for our next outing...which may be taking place this Friday- there may not be photos from that event*evil laugh*
Thought some of you might enjoy a couple photos of my life outside of basketball?!
Back row left to right: Namukolo, Vicky, Kupela, Inutu, Mildred
Me with Mildred & Inutu!
Thought some of you might enjoy a couple photos of my life outside of basketball?!
Back row left to right: Namukolo, Vicky, Kupela, Inutu, MildredFront row left to right: ME, Leah, Sarah
Me with Mildred & Inutu!
GRRR!
I have to admit, I knew it was coming- but what a pain in the BUTT! While blogging recently I'd realized Google had started recommending opening a Gmail account so that I can continue blogging. So my lovely Gmail friends sent me invitations to sign up...all so that I can keep in touch with all of you floaters in cyber space. There's just no respect for those of us who don't live in North America...it's been such a hassle. And the last thing I need is another bloody email account*giggling*
Now watch, I'll be blacklisted & so much for my blog life. Anyhoo- Happy Valentine's Day- here's me & my Valentine...yes, early this morning & I'm obviously not yet very coordinated!!!
Monday, February 12, 2007
Nai-robbery...aka Nairobi, Kenya
That's right...my absence blogging was due to a trip to Nairobi. I was SO lucky to be able to attend a workshop regarding a Sports for Social Change Network, as a representative for Breakthrough Sports Academy (BSA...you know, all the photos you've seen of 'my' basketball boys).
The conference was great, however awfully intensive, so I never really had a chance to see Nairobi. But I was hanging out with some lovely young Kenyans & they referred to Nairobi as "Nai-robbery". Too appropriate as two women at the conference had their purses stolen. I, on the other hand, dropped my phone one evening without noticing. The next morning I came to the hotel begging for information (thinking there was no way I'd ever see the phone again), & lo & behold, the hotel staff returned it to me with NO airtime even missing*smile*. Wow, THAT was good karma!!
The hectic workshop put be back in touch with the International Sports for Development world, & I savoured every moment! I met some incredible people & feel all inspired once more. I'll attach photos when my camera gets returned to me & I have a moment to upload them.
I feel like there are a million stories I'm forgetting to report...I'll post them as I remember!
And thanks for all of the comments!!! Brilliant!
For now it's getting back into a routine. And drying out after getting caught in a serious rain storm...I love the weather in Lusaka!
The conference was great, however awfully intensive, so I never really had a chance to see Nairobi. But I was hanging out with some lovely young Kenyans & they referred to Nairobi as "Nai-robbery". Too appropriate as two women at the conference had their purses stolen. I, on the other hand, dropped my phone one evening without noticing. The next morning I came to the hotel begging for information (thinking there was no way I'd ever see the phone again), & lo & behold, the hotel staff returned it to me with NO airtime even missing*smile*. Wow, THAT was good karma!!
The hectic workshop put be back in touch with the International Sports for Development world, & I savoured every moment! I met some incredible people & feel all inspired once more. I'll attach photos when my camera gets returned to me & I have a moment to upload them.
I feel like there are a million stories I'm forgetting to report...I'll post them as I remember!
And thanks for all of the comments!!! Brilliant!
For now it's getting back into a routine. And drying out after getting caught in a serious rain storm...I love the weather in Lusaka!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Thanks be...
Where would I be without technologically advanced friends? I kept thinking- how come nobody leaves comments on my blog? Without even asking the question, I got the answer. I've since attempted to alter my comment settings so that any of you can leave me a comment without having to become some bizarr-o blogger yourself!
I hope that means I'll hear from more of you?! So, try again to leave a comment- & if I find one...I guess I fixed the problem? If there are no comments, I'll assume that I am truly unloved & you make up stories about reading my blog!
Technology- you win some & you lose some.
Let me get back to staring at the sky, willing the storm clouds to retreat so that I can run a training session for my boys!! Wish me luck (that's for you Luke)...or perhaps I should bank on my good karma for a sunny afternoon??
Where would I be without technologically advanced friends? I kept thinking- how come nobody leaves comments on my blog? Without even asking the question, I got the answer. I've since attempted to alter my comment settings so that any of you can leave me a comment without having to become some bizarr-o blogger yourself!
I hope that means I'll hear from more of you?! So, try again to leave a comment- & if I find one...I guess I fixed the problem? If there are no comments, I'll assume that I am truly unloved & you make up stories about reading my blog!
Technology- you win some & you lose some.
Let me get back to staring at the sky, willing the storm clouds to retreat so that I can run a training session for my boys!! Wish me luck (that's for you Luke)...or perhaps I should bank on my good karma for a sunny afternoon??
Friday, January 26, 2007
I saw a monkey on my walk to work this morning!
It's really random; it's kind of like seeing a deer or coyote in West Edmonton. Funnier still were the couple of Zambians marveling under the tree- I'm telling you, wild animals generally do not set up camp in the Capital city of African countries.
I had an equally as random dream- I dreamt I was skiing- snow skiing! I've definitely been missing the mountains...but I didn't think it was that bad. I could have understood water skiing, but the snow really threw me for a loop.
Confession: Last week/weekend I managed to watch The Gods Must be Crazy parts I & II...& all I can think about is if it rains again this weekend- I'm going to watch parts III & IV! (Did anyone know there were FOUR parts? I think I've only ever seen the first two). Brilliant.
This week I also decided I would indulge in grapes. You know, the red seedless ones. They're pretty expensive in Zed, but I thought- let me sate this craving. Time & time again I'm shocked at how much better the fruit is here than in Canada...I ate a big bunch & didn't have one bad one!
Does life get better than this? Or am I truly too easy to please?! And it's Friday again- sa-weet!!
It's really random; it's kind of like seeing a deer or coyote in West Edmonton. Funnier still were the couple of Zambians marveling under the tree- I'm telling you, wild animals generally do not set up camp in the Capital city of African countries.
I had an equally as random dream- I dreamt I was skiing- snow skiing! I've definitely been missing the mountains...but I didn't think it was that bad. I could have understood water skiing, but the snow really threw me for a loop.
Confession: Last week/weekend I managed to watch The Gods Must be Crazy parts I & II...& all I can think about is if it rains again this weekend- I'm going to watch parts III & IV! (Did anyone know there were FOUR parts? I think I've only ever seen the first two). Brilliant.
This week I also decided I would indulge in grapes. You know, the red seedless ones. They're pretty expensive in Zed, but I thought- let me sate this craving. Time & time again I'm shocked at how much better the fruit is here than in Canada...I ate a big bunch & didn't have one bad one!
Does life get better than this? Or am I truly too easy to please?! And it's Friday again- sa-weet!!
Monday, January 22, 2007
Rained out!
All I wanted to do this weekend was swim...but the rains forbade me that luxury. It's been cool & overcast ALL weekend, but I must confess the rain proved to be the perfect excuse to stay indoors yesterday & enjoy tea, books, & movies!! So no complaining on this end!
There's a funny story I failed to report last week though. (Well, I think it's funny & several of you may disagree since the last entry I intentioned to be humorous inspired NO comments from anyone. Come on guys- I had grasshoppers jumping out of toilet paper rolls). Well, I'll post this one despite that truth.
I was taking the dreaded bus again the other morning. As the conductor (that's the name for the young guy on every bus who takes payments from the patrons, & announces all of the stops to allow everyone to move on & off the bus) leaned over to chat with me I was nearly knocked over by the smell of the local potent beer- Chibuku Shake Shake. (Shake shake is 'opaque' beer- made with maize meal & is severely fermented...the fumes are enough to set my head spinning)*grin*. I knew I was not going to be interested in ANYthing he was saying...but he said something to the driver in Nyanja that I didn't quite understand. He hops off the bus as we are stopped at a red light (or at the robots as Zambians say) & the driver is looking MAD, saying that the light is turning green right away. The driver starts accelerating & I turn round to find out what the conductor is doing. It turns out the Chibuku ran straight through him & he was taking a PEE in the DITCH of a very busy road.
The best bit- the driver took off, he did NOT pull over to wait for the inebriated conductor, but drove me safely to my destination! I was so chuffed!! No drunken conductor to irritate me, I would love to find that driver again just because he was so cool!!
Yup, my life is fairly exciting isn't it??!!!
All I wanted to do this weekend was swim...but the rains forbade me that luxury. It's been cool & overcast ALL weekend, but I must confess the rain proved to be the perfect excuse to stay indoors yesterday & enjoy tea, books, & movies!! So no complaining on this end!
There's a funny story I failed to report last week though. (Well, I think it's funny & several of you may disagree since the last entry I intentioned to be humorous inspired NO comments from anyone. Come on guys- I had grasshoppers jumping out of toilet paper rolls). Well, I'll post this one despite that truth.
I was taking the dreaded bus again the other morning. As the conductor (that's the name for the young guy on every bus who takes payments from the patrons, & announces all of the stops to allow everyone to move on & off the bus) leaned over to chat with me I was nearly knocked over by the smell of the local potent beer- Chibuku Shake Shake. (Shake shake is 'opaque' beer- made with maize meal & is severely fermented...the fumes are enough to set my head spinning)*grin*. I knew I was not going to be interested in ANYthing he was saying...but he said something to the driver in Nyanja that I didn't quite understand. He hops off the bus as we are stopped at a red light (or at the robots as Zambians say) & the driver is looking MAD, saying that the light is turning green right away. The driver starts accelerating & I turn round to find out what the conductor is doing. It turns out the Chibuku ran straight through him & he was taking a PEE in the DITCH of a very busy road.
The best bit- the driver took off, he did NOT pull over to wait for the inebriated conductor, but drove me safely to my destination! I was so chuffed!! No drunken conductor to irritate me, I would love to find that driver again just because he was so cool!!
Yup, my life is fairly exciting isn't it??!!!
Friday, January 12, 2007
Beautiful snippets
- Tuesday after work, just as the clouds were threatening a downpour, I donned my running gear & backpack & set off jogging to Breakthrough Sports Academy. I'm back at coaching & thrilled for the opportunities 2007 will bring. As I hit the pavement I was in absolute awe. The rain that had arrived (though thankfully not in torrents) was cooling the tarmac. There were gusts of fog swirling at my feet as I made my way to BSA. I wished so badly I had carried my camera, it was a stunning scene; the light playing on the rain between the green of the trees, and the visible heat rising out from the road. When I arrived at BSA, my hair wasn't even damp from the rain...it was an odd but breathtaking experience.
- I have had two candlelight dinners with my boyfriend this week. No, we are not hopeless romantics, but the power has been cut where I stay for over 12-hour periods. I'm livid...cold morning baths & legions of mosquitos buzzing through my mosquito netting all night. There buzzing is magnified because there is no electircal buzzing, but also because they are drawn to the only source of heat in the house- it's awful!
Now I'm just thrilled the sun is shining & I only work halfday fridays!!!!! Happy weekend- yours truly.
- Tuesday after work, just as the clouds were threatening a downpour, I donned my running gear & backpack & set off jogging to Breakthrough Sports Academy. I'm back at coaching & thrilled for the opportunities 2007 will bring. As I hit the pavement I was in absolute awe. The rain that had arrived (though thankfully not in torrents) was cooling the tarmac. There were gusts of fog swirling at my feet as I made my way to BSA. I wished so badly I had carried my camera, it was a stunning scene; the light playing on the rain between the green of the trees, and the visible heat rising out from the road. When I arrived at BSA, my hair wasn't even damp from the rain...it was an odd but breathtaking experience.
- I have had two candlelight dinners with my boyfriend this week. No, we are not hopeless romantics, but the power has been cut where I stay for over 12-hour periods. I'm livid...cold morning baths & legions of mosquitos buzzing through my mosquito netting all night. There buzzing is magnified because there is no electircal buzzing, but also because they are drawn to the only source of heat in the house- it's awful!
Now I'm just thrilled the sun is shining & I only work halfday fridays!!!!! Happy weekend- yours truly.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Photo heavy
Due to the demand for photographs of ME & my adventures (& my friends of course) during the festive season, I realize that I haven't told any good stories lately. (Yes, I use the word 'good' loosely). And I LOVED my brother's recent blog about being awarded employee of the week- Congrats! (Enjoy it, some organizations don't even KNOW their employees)...
Forewarning: this is embarassing. Especially for a Canadian. From Edmonton no less!
I was walking down the hall in the office, pulling my sweater tighter around my stomach & readjusting my scarf. The rainy days had brought me a chill. My boss caught up to me and said "It's amazing you know, we're in sub-Saharan Africa this time of year & the temperature is only 24 degrees celsius)." I sort of chuckle and sit down at my desk.
HOLD UP! Back home 24 degrees is shorts & tank top weather...perhaps I HAVE been here too long. NB*(But when the cold season comes round, it IS actually cold, & I got Canadian family to back that up- Thank you Marty & Carly)!!!
Due to the demand for photographs of ME & my adventures (& my friends of course) during the festive season, I realize that I haven't told any good stories lately. (Yes, I use the word 'good' loosely). And I LOVED my brother's recent blog about being awarded employee of the week- Congrats! (Enjoy it, some organizations don't even KNOW their employees)...
Forewarning: this is embarassing. Especially for a Canadian. From Edmonton no less!
I was walking down the hall in the office, pulling my sweater tighter around my stomach & readjusting my scarf. The rainy days had brought me a chill. My boss caught up to me and said "It's amazing you know, we're in sub-Saharan Africa this time of year & the temperature is only 24 degrees celsius)." I sort of chuckle and sit down at my desk.
HOLD UP! Back home 24 degrees is shorts & tank top weather...perhaps I HAVE been here too long. NB*(But when the cold season comes round, it IS actually cold, & I got Canadian family to back that up- Thank you Marty & Carly)!!!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Cute cousin...& Alvin getting the Braai started
Here are a few Christmas stragglers that I couldn't upload onto my last posting. I didn't take any photos on New Year's though we had a LOVELY pizza party! We enjoyed ringing in the New Year with good friends & yummy food...what better way? Happy 2007 to each of you! Now it's back to work...
HELLO EVERYBODY! (Just in case you forgot what I look like since it's been AGES since I've seen most of you who would bother to read this blog)!
Christmas 2006
I have to admit that I was quite nervous to attend Alvin's family gathering in Lusaka West- it was the first introduction to all of Alvin's family at one time. At least I had met most of his family in pieces before...
I quickly forgot any apprehension when I saw the familiar welcoming faces of Alvin's of cousins & siblings. Although these photos look nothing like celebrations back home I have to confess, often times, it felt like home. There was a big meal- everyone was put to work! The biggest difference was that the meat was braai'd (barbecued) & I didnt' get any oven-roasted turkey. (Turkeys were acutally banned this year in Zambia due to the threat of Avian Influenza). I was quick to forget the lack of turkey when the ladies put in the Dolly Parton/ Kenny Rogers Christmas cd. Yup, I grew up on that one mom...& I just had to giggle as the girls were singing all the words while we were peeling potatoes. How could I not feel at home?? Here are a few shots...a couple more to come soon.
Cousins...too cute!
Alvin & I on Christmas Eve.
I LOVED Chisanga for wearing this "Oh Canada" shirt...though he said he hadn't even thought of it until I was so happy!!
The farm itself (before all the arrivals); the crew as we're just about ready to dig in!
I have to admit that I was quite nervous to attend Alvin's family gathering in Lusaka West- it was the first introduction to all of Alvin's family at one time. At least I had met most of his family in pieces before...
I quickly forgot any apprehension when I saw the familiar welcoming faces of Alvin's of cousins & siblings. Although these photos look nothing like celebrations back home I have to confess, often times, it felt like home. There was a big meal- everyone was put to work! The biggest difference was that the meat was braai'd (barbecued) & I didnt' get any oven-roasted turkey. (Turkeys were acutally banned this year in Zambia due to the threat of Avian Influenza). I was quick to forget the lack of turkey when the ladies put in the Dolly Parton/ Kenny Rogers Christmas cd. Yup, I grew up on that one mom...& I just had to giggle as the girls were singing all the words while we were peeling potatoes. How could I not feel at home?? Here are a few shots...a couple more to come soon.
Cousins...too cute!
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Alvin & I on Christmas Eve.
I LOVED Chisanga for wearing this "Oh Canada" shirt...though he said he hadn't even thought of it until I was so happy!!
The farm itself (before all the arrivals); the crew as we're just about ready to dig in!
Monday, January 01, 2007
Back Blog
Get it- back logged blogs? Forgive me, I have my father's sense of humour.*wicked smile* I'm hoping to update my blog today...so there MAY be a couple of posts today- if all goes well with computers*fingers crossed*
I had the most horrifying experience on the way to the bus station last Saturday (Dec 23rd). Since I had a 4-day weekend, but had agreed that we would spend Christmas Day with Alvin's family, we decided to sneak out of town for Saturday & return to Lusaka on Christmas Eve. There's a farm about 45km outside of Lusaka that we thought would prove a suitable 'holiday'. We donned our bags and walked to the bus station. Just as we were approaching the station, a RAT shimmied between my legs & over my left foot and bee-lined to the busy road. The rat seemed awfully confused, and was promptly hit by a truck. I was completely shocked, I have NEVER had a rat run ON me before, no less when I'm on the move?!?! In my confusion and horror, I looked down at my foot & found rat blood. Isn't that terrible? We concluded the rat was already injured and in a panic ran over me before meeting it's fate a couple of metres away.
I considered turning around and walking home, as I was convinced this must be a bad omen. I'm happy to admit that the farm was lovely (except for a strange 3-eared donkey). The farm was packed with families & proved to be just the breath of fresh air I needed. Here are a couple shots, just because I was excited about this little adventure! Next blog- Christmas.
A noisy peacock
That 3-eared donkey I mentioned
I LOVED these massive pigs amonst heaps of scrap metal!
Get it- back logged blogs? Forgive me, I have my father's sense of humour.*wicked smile* I'm hoping to update my blog today...so there MAY be a couple of posts today- if all goes well with computers*fingers crossed*
I had the most horrifying experience on the way to the bus station last Saturday (Dec 23rd). Since I had a 4-day weekend, but had agreed that we would spend Christmas Day with Alvin's family, we decided to sneak out of town for Saturday & return to Lusaka on Christmas Eve. There's a farm about 45km outside of Lusaka that we thought would prove a suitable 'holiday'. We donned our bags and walked to the bus station. Just as we were approaching the station, a RAT shimmied between my legs & over my left foot and bee-lined to the busy road. The rat seemed awfully confused, and was promptly hit by a truck. I was completely shocked, I have NEVER had a rat run ON me before, no less when I'm on the move?!?! In my confusion and horror, I looked down at my foot & found rat blood. Isn't that terrible? We concluded the rat was already injured and in a panic ran over me before meeting it's fate a couple of metres away.
I considered turning around and walking home, as I was convinced this must be a bad omen. I'm happy to admit that the farm was lovely (except for a strange 3-eared donkey). The farm was packed with families & proved to be just the breath of fresh air I needed. Here are a couple shots, just because I was excited about this little adventure! Next blog- Christmas.
A noisy peacock
That 3-eared donkey I mentioned
I LOVED these massive pigs amonst heaps of scrap metal!
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