Last night the power came on, after 5 grueling days! Wow did we celebrate. We ran baths, showers, turned on ever light (just because we hadn’t ever seen the house completely lit up; just day light, candles and flahslights.) and charged up our cameras, computer, school-loaned cell phone, etc. It’s really amazing how much we take for granted in the states. Even something as simple as a flushing toilet is a luxury. We really rely on the generator (provided we have fuel on hand ) to run the pump to the bore hole for the water tank. Muncipal water is out when municipal power is out. FUN!
So we went to a flea market near our home and bought a few things like batiiks and some wicker stuff. Also a couple pirated dvds for the kids. ; )Then we went with the new teachers out to a little place in the country (about 20 minute drive) for a lovely brunch and watched Sable and Zebras as we ate. Wow. And then, a little further out to a place called Domboshawa for a hike up to the top of this huge whale-shaped rock teetering on another huge rock. Very beautiful. I’ll send pics eventually. ; )
Today we’re at school for inservice, so it’s time I actually got to work!
May 6, 2007
Hi Theresa and Jeff,
So glad to hear you made it safely and uneventfully! I’m looking forward to hearing more about your adventures and seeing your photos.
Hmmm, maybe you can think of the power outages, outrageous exchange rates, and other inconveniences as “family character-building opportunities.” Nothing a girl born in Idaho can’t handle, that’s for sure!
Love and miss you, Janis
May 6, 2007
Hi everyone,
Since this blank comment keeps popping up, I guess I had better fill it with something. We all enjoy your blog so much and we’re glad you seem to be adjusting so well, in spite of the power outages and the money rates. I can imagine the kids are getting anxious for school to start and make new friends. It will be interesting to see how soon they will start speaking in foreign tongues. You may even pick up a little French or German or Zimbabwean yourselves. Anyway, I love you, miss you and happy for you all at the same time. Does that mean I”m multi-tasking?
Mom (Grandma)
May 6, 2007
Hi Theresa and family,
Thanks for sharing your adventures with everyone ! Who else do I know that gets to dine with zebras? I’m looking forward to seeing your pictures too.
Take care,
Ellena
May 6, 2007
Hi peoples. Glad are all doing well despite some inconveniences which I am sure will soon be a way of life. I hope the kids and kitties made the trip okay. How are the zebras?
We love reading your blog and being up to date on your adventures. We all have to live vicariously.
Love you all,
Heather
May 6, 2007
Dear Jeff, Terry, Mary and Bryce,
We love hearing from you. We will live vicariouly through you all. Watching zebras while you eat, fabulous.
We are off today to Cottage Grove for our annual MG Rendezvous. It is always a good time. Week after next we will be at Mercer Lake for two weeks. We wish you could’ve come and enjoyed our new place before you left. Next summer for sure.
Have a wonderful first day of school. Looking forward to you next entry. Hopefully some pictures soon.
Love,
Debbie and family
May 7, 2007
Don’t want to be a bother, but can you fly back real quick to dust and vacuum my condo.
Thanks.
This must be your brother.
May 7, 2007
Theresa,
On behalf of your extended Hallinan family I send our love to you and yours. I think of you often and I can’t believe all that you have experienced so far. Continue on your journey and be assured we are watching the countdown until you return. Have the time of your life!
Have a GREAT first day of school (all of you).
CAC (& all the HAL staff)
May 7, 2007
Welcome to Zimbabwe! I am glad that it all seems like a fun adventure - especially for the kids. May the novelty of hit and miss power, occasionally running water, and quick runs to the generator never wear off! Glad you’all are safe. We’ll make you smart on posting pictures soon!
May 7, 2007
This blog is a wonder! What a great way to be reassured about your safety, included in your fabulous adventures, and directed in our prayers for you. We are so blessed to be the ones fortunate enough to stay in the Chateau Cumpston NW here on Southslope Way. Louis’ friends are vying for invitations for overnights; Bandit loves his walks in the new neighborhood and thinks Copper’s kennel is just great. Penelope, the Queen of King Snakes has been much petted and adored since you left. She wishes we would move our 2 rat sisters, Cookies and Cream, into Louis’ room with her but they are quite content in the guest room. (Haven’t had guests stay there yet to see what the reaction will be to sharing a room with rodents. Will have to make “Ratatouille” mandatory viewing for overnighters!)
I found a “Hello Kitty” bracelet of Mary’s and have been using it as an extra rosary, saying prayers for you all using its pretty pink beads. It’s the Mary connection. So, hugs from us added to the zillion of good thoughts coming your way from the U.S.
May 8, 2007
Hi, Everyone!
We’re glad you made it safely! Sounds like you are all adjusting just fine and making new friends. Not a surprise. Glad you were able to explore a little before jumping into work!!
Thank you for entering updates so quickly!
Sandie