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I was up at 5am this morning. For those that know me well, I'm sure that is a shock. For some reason, it doesn't seem so bad getting up that early here.

It's been very hot. The mornings are nice, but things get pretty warm by noon and then just don't seem to cool off. At least everyone is in the same boat though--the sweaty, sleepy, move slow boat. What works for me is that because of the heat, there is no speed walking here in Zam. People walk long distances but at a slower rate. Makes sense and naturally accommodates my short legs.

So the reason for my early morning wake up was a visit to the local hospital. One of the boys that live here has a sister who was admitted into a psych ward last night. Maize is suffering from panic and anxiety break outs. The girls were each on a bed in a common ward. It smelt like urine. They gave her heavy drugs the night before and she did not wake up when we arrived. We prayed for her and just loved on her and hope that she will wake with a peaceful mind knowing that she is cared for. Her brother, Benjamin, brought her food. It was difficult.

I continue to look for transportation down to the farm. Public transport was suspended to the area because of its remoteness. Buying a car in Zam is expensive because of the import costs and the high demand. Hopefully something works itself out in soon.

Love and blessings
Natasha

Greetings from Zambia!

I've officially arrived! It was a pretty good flight, I managed to sleep (even on the floor of the Nairobi airport lol). But after the 30+ hours of travel, the last were the worst! I just couldn't wait to get out of the plane. I was on the verge of plane-ophobia and clawing my way out. But I didn't and am safely here.

I'm staying with a lovely family in town. They are so kind and friendly. I'm slowly settling in, trying to get connected and working on getting down to the community. My greatest need now is a vehicle so I can get myself around.

TIA (This is Africa) learning moments:  
~ When you can't get a smaller SIM card for your iPhone, take it to the local shop to have the normal one cut down (literally)to size.
~ A response of "yes" does not mean the person has understood you. 
~ I caught myself saying too many "sorry"'s and standing too politely in queues. If you're in any country besides Canada, put your "sorry"'s in a sac and don't be afraid to get a "little" (OMG there's my polite Canadian side still coming out lol) pushy!

Hope to see my old friends down in the village soon and provide you with new stories. The container is expected beginning to mid November. 

This is a picture of my new room. Who knew that I had to come all the way to Zambia to live like Barbie! I love it. Now, if I could only get her figure. haha.

Love and Blessings
Natasha



Off it Goes...

The container was successfully packed, lifted and sent on it's way this week. It was amazing to see how everything ended up fitting in just perfectly. We packed it in right to the door with the final pieces of furniture and bicycles. We also took some time to write some blessings and good wishes to our friends in Zambia. It will take about 65 days for it to arrive if everything goes smoothly.

Now there's only me left to pack up. I leave Toronto on Sept. 24th.