Village living- a few lessons

• Malawi has scorpions, and yes- they do come inside.
• Plastic bags make great fire starters.
• If a local tells you 'that plant is itchy- don't touch it' believe them. It is the most intense itch, borderline panic pain you've ever felt in your life.
• If you're sharing a snack, don't wander off. They won't save any for you.
• If you suspect it's the chief- trust your instinct.
• The market only sells dried fish, tomatoes and greens. get used to it.
• Greens run out by about 9 am.
• Saving outside-of-pot-washing as an 'every few days job' is counter productive. The black stuff is baked on thicker, it takes longer, hurts your hands and you end up hating the job even more (is that possible?). Plus no-one will help you.
• Be careful saying you want to learn how to 'do everything'. You may get recruited into 5.30 am water pump sweeping/ scrubbing or all day firewood collecting excursions.
• You don't get tough sitting around all day doing nothing.
• People are really willing to help if you're humble enough to ask for it.
• Pot lids are usually really hot.