April 6th
The days fly by as my departure time approaches. Tomorrow I will
leave UK soil once again for another adventure in Africa.
In many ways I am ahead of schedule! My bags are packed – I have ¾
lb left for my toilet bag in one case - the other might have a
couple of ounces spare! Dilys scales weigh to ¼ pound – I hope
they are accurate! I might even have a pound or so in my hand luggage
for the bits and pieces I will find in the next few hours!
Teddy and Raymond have been scouring Monze for somewhere for me to
stay but so far have had no success. Fr. Kenan has always been most
hospitable, so I will spend, at least, the initial night or two at
the Priest's House. I have been warned that the priests have been
practising at pool so I might have some serious competition this
year.
Jennipher hasn't been very well and was referred to UTH (University
Teaching Hospital, Lusaka) for treatment. I tried to call her earlier
but the line was one way and she couldn't hear me. I have been busy
preparing the case for her to visit the UK when I return in June. Our
Liberal Democrat MP Martin Horwood has written a very good supporting
letter. My first task in Zambia will be to complete an application
for a visa with Jennipher – having obtained further supporting
letters.
Easter is a wonderful time of year. It is a time of new life here in
the UK. Blossom and flowers are brightening our world. In Zambia the
rains are coming to an end and harvest time is fast approaching. It
is a time of anticipation.
During the week I was informed that the flight schedules had been
changed. Since I could still fly out at the same time and connect at
Addis Ababa, I was relaxed about the changes. However new tickets
hadn't arrived by Friday! I seem to have one or two problems with my
e-mails at the moment – fortunately I have an alternative address
and now have new tickets.
I was interested to note that the outward journey to Ethiopia was
going to take nearly two hours longer than originally scheduled. It
appeared that we were going to make an extra stop. Checking the
flight details I was surprised that the plane is now flying to Rome!
Fortunately it then progresses to Addis! On the whole I think this
detour will prove better than an additional hour or two at Addis
airport in the early hours.
About a week ago I lost a set of keys. This evening I realised that
the small keys for the locks on my cases where on this ring. - panic
over spares have been located!
I am looking forward to being back among my friends in Zambia. It is
never easy but it can be so very rewarding. I have known many of the
people for a number of years. It is good to see that some are
progressing and making their way in life, but for many it is still a
daily struggle to provide sufficient food for the family.
So as I prepare to leave please remember me in your prayers – I
need a lot of guidance.
With love and prayers
Chris
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