Day 2 Visit to Mary Martha

Monire

After our long journey, it was not surprising that we did not hear the church bells at 6a.m., however, a couple of us were awakened at some point in the night by the very heavy rain falling on the metal roof; it was torrential. We had a leisurely morning, a nice breakfast - toast, Mzuzu coffee and some cake. After breakfast, Harris and Thembeko came round to say hello and to hear news from Scotland. They were both looking well and asking fondly after their 2nd family. We look forward to seeing them again at school on Monday. Mr Paul Banda called in to welcome us back. He gave us an update on the school news. It is great there are many more students enrolled for the next session, although a few more teachers will need to found for certain subjects. Mrs Irene Jerre also arrived to say hello. Her new hairstyle means she no longer has as Stephen (nursery pupil at St. Mary's) thought "2 heads". Her hair is very short and curly. Irene is looking well and keeping much better, thank God.

We were scheduled to attend the Mary Martha Orphan Centre around 1p.m., however in true Malawian time we left some time after 2p.m. Roderick Kavuta collected us in his 4x4 and I'm pleased to report that the rain had stopped and the sun was coming out a little. Before arriving at the Orphan Centre, Roderick took us on a guided tour of his land which stretches over several areas. The land is very hilly and green although the track was very muddy and full of puddles due to the rain. Roderick grows pineapples but they will not be harvested until later in the year which was a pity for us. We stopped at the place where his first house was built. Now his son stays there. We met many members of his family including Matthew (Roderick's grandson) who is 3 years and blind.



On ariving at Mary Martha's we were given a wonderful welcome even although we said this was a "holiday" and not an official visit. Once more the children touched our hearts by their cheerfulness and friendliness on greeting us. We noticed that the colourful windmills given last year were still outside and twirling away. The new building has progressed; the walls are plastered and there is now a complete floor and small platform area. We assembled here for introductions. Once again it is overwhelming to hear how much the adults support the children and families in the surrounding area. The people give so much of their time and love to care for each other. There is so much we can learn from the people here in Malawi about remembering how to help our neighbours.

We had a wondeful afternoon with the children and adults. Today the children were delighted to receive their lollipop and we all look forward to a grand party with food and games on Saturday. Roderick and Matha kindly entertained us in their home with a treat of yams and small buns like doughnuts and of course hot Mzuzu coffee.

We returned home and after tea everyone watched the football match Spain versus Paraguay. Daphne and her family joined us for part of the evening.

Paweme

Anne, Paul, Bernadette and Celia