What a difference a day makes....

Thanks to the open generosity of our new friends we have had a weekend of complete rejuvenation.

An amazing opportunity for a glimpse into what life can be like if you live overseas permanently. This family are on their 3rd African country and I suspect it's the little things they've built up over the years that make all the difference. We are in awe at the home made jams, pickles, passion fruit lollies, waffle maker and yoghurts that are part of daily life.

Cold enough for a fire!

Mt Meru - Africa's 2nd highest peak

For us it has been a true escape from the intensities of living in amongst our Tanzanian neighbours with the incessant red dust. Here at the bottom of Mount Meru the climate is cooler. We've needed jumpers in the mornings and duvets at night. The heat of the day is far less overwhelming. The children have roamed free in the luscious gardens and the cool pool, enjoying their delightful friends' toys and pets.

It seems likely a heavenly existence but I am very aware that if you make countries like this your life, you need a home environment that lets you enjoy life as a family and not just survive.




We are particularly envious at the description of the International Baccalaureate school.....sounds like the educational ethos that we aspire to as parents but is sadly lacking in the British schooling system. 

But to have a life like this you need a salary. There is only so much volunteering you can do before the money runs out!

M has, predictably, launched himself into his surgical/educational position here with his usual enthusiasm and drive. Inevitably questioning and pushing himself and those around him to improve things beyond what anyone else would conceive. Having pushed him myself to step off the travellator of a surgical career in the UK, I have, as usual unleashed his passion in yet another direction in life. I suspect we'll be having a whole lot more to do with this continent.

The girls are going to find it hard to tear themselves away from here. Thankfully there are new medical students back in Muheza to engage us on our return. L, B & I have gratefully accepted the offer to stay on for an extra couple of  days here in Arusha before fulfilling my desire to see the Serengeti. Whether or not we'll hit the wilderbeest migration remains to be seen and I can't quite pull off my Birthday request for a hot air balloon as the minimum age for children is 7 years. Don't think I can leave B to her own devices with the game on the ground. Either way I'm feeling very self indulgent!

Ready for a little walk

Where are M and R during this time?
Well they've popped off for a bit of daddy - daughter hill walking. Along with a guide, sous-guide, cook and 7 porters. I'll leave it to R to explain - she's long overdue a post.