well, here is a post I wrote a few weeks ago and forgot to post...
I can't seem to move the photos- so its pictures first!
An elephant kiss, Liwonde National Park
The view from the front verandah of our chalet at Nkhata Bay (no zoom used)
My colleague and I at a more formally structured Agriculture lesson about farm planningSo, Where have I been? well, for one- I've been forced to think about leaving and all that it entails. Finishing up well, it turns out, takes a lot of time and energy! So far I've sent 23.5 kgs back to Australia (books!!) in other peoples luggage, 3/4 packed the house, written a huge 'to do' list, started telling people I'm leaving soon, endured several 'we don't want you to leave' speeches and am trying to wrap my head around how I'm gonna face so many painful 'good byes'.
(Addendum- I've now said good bye to most of my groups and packing is still a work in progress)I've also had 3 friends from Australia visiting the last few weeks, which took us on a tour of the country- from Nkata Bay to Blantyre, from the idyllic lake shores at Cape Maclear to lengthy village meetings in the back blocks of Machinga. Have you ever thought about what you would show people of your life if you wanted to give them an overview? hmm. not sure we quite achieved that, but I gave it a shot and had a great time seeing some of Malawi's highlights along the way!
And...I've finally got an 'official' hobby. you guessed it- photography :) I've joined an online group that advises and critiques, discusses techniques and has online competitions (which is where a fair chunk of ususal 'blogging' internet time and energy has gone). But its FUN! :) learning new stuff, keeping an eye out for 'the perfect shot', debating the strengths and weaknesses of different angles etc. the downside is that I've discovered I'm actually less likely to reach for the camera because I know the lighting isn't right etc. :(
(Addendum- I haven't had much time for this the last few weeks. that's the good thing about this hobby- it can wait :)
