We have all arrived safely at the weekend pitstop. Everyone physically and emotionally drained but ready to crack on with another week. Couple of days rest should sort everyone out.
We are currently in St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal on the edge of a game reserve. The Health and safety/Welfare of the service users has taken another twist - the sign directly outside the hotel warns of Snakes, Monkeys, Crocs and Hippo's.
All now have 'Staying away from Hippo's' support plans with associated risk assessments - the risk being death by Hippo munching on you.
Service users are missing the site already and indeed Princess - almost every hour someone will pose the question 'I wonder what Princess is doing now' - Admiring her new home no doubt.
We observed another house very close to the site that appeared unoccupied - this is due to the family requiring to slaughter either a goat or a cow as a move-in Zulu ritual - we are not sure if Princess will insist on this ritual before moving the family. Should a cow or goat not be available for Princess we have offered Shaun as a suitable replacement.
Matt, Alex and Sam have had our first 10 minutes together (All service Users are in vision) - Although Matt seems to recognise the soles of the trainers sticking out of that Crocs mouth - We have just managed to stop and reflect on the effort, committment and dedication shown by each and every service user - Alex said that she has never been on an expedition with a group of young people who have been so dedicated, shown such spirt and gelled together so well.
Matt said that his arms are about to fall off. Some of the gang has other aches and pains - but instead of complaining - everyone is proud of their pain - in respect of what the pain achieved - amazing.
Alex Matt and I are really looking forward to leading the next part of the trip which includes painting and cleaning up a school in Shongweni.
4.30am start tomorrow - and they think the door knock was loud last week......
Budgie Smuggler has a couple of rest days to top up his tan.
Sam, should all else fail in the world of SH then please consider a career in writing! Your blogs are moving, informative & funny! I find myself thinking "wonder how Princess is enjoying her new home". I'm sure she is as happy as I am proud.
ReplyDeletePlease don't get eaten anyone.....enjoy next week as much as this past one! Don't forget to send time of arrival & flight number....I need a fix of Heathrow! :)
With that many creatures poised to bite things off I would seriously think about warning Shaun off the Budgie Smugglers!:>)
ReplyDeleteGlad you've all arrived safely! One amazing week down and no doubt one more equally amazing week to go........
Congratulations to everyone - fantastic achievement. Enjoy your couple of days recharging batteries and see another side of this amazing country.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to hearing the next enstallment.
David E
A huge congratulations to you all for the house build! I am sure that you will never be forgotten by Princess and everyone you meet! Hope you continue to have the adventure of a lifetime. NCHA are proud of you!!
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