I can't believe that I've been gone for 5 weeks and have only 5 weeks left -only 4 in Africa! It's unbelievable. It was sad this morning since two of my best friends left, but they went to Seattle, so I know I'll see them soon. This weekend has been very low key, other than the fact that 15 new people arrived. It seems very strange to be the vetran- but nice since I have time to sleep, nap and plan lessons. The new people seem nice but it is a lot of work to meet tons of new people and I'm sure they are overwhelmed so we retreat to our rooms alot. I have 2 new roomates who seem very friendly.

I have to say I am tired of staying here. This was my second weekend in a row where I didn't do any tours or anything and I need to get away. We still haven't done the walking safari but it is planned for this weekend. And then hopefully horseback riding at the base of kili next weekend. Woot!! I'm making musical instruments for my new students today with Ali. We're makig shakers and tambourine with beans and bottle caps. I hope it works!!!

On friday I did home visits to 3 of my students. They all lived in the vicinity but all lived in very different styles of houses. It was very cool to see them, but kind of sad to think that we live in this house and compound that must be like a masion next to their hut for 7 people. It's their reality but it's strange to think about.

I'm hoping to go back to the orphange soon- I think today I'm gonna go out and play with the kids -it's been a while and I have energy now. Other than that things are good. Not much has happened. I went to town today with the new people and the art market -I love it there. Everytime I go I get something new- it's all made by the people who sell it so I like the directness of the money exchange. Plus I know get to ask questions and know the history of the work and the person.

Anyways, I should go now- I want to be social and I have some safari stuff to plan. Ps: Mama Lilian says it's snake season now so we have to keep our eyes peeled- they are ALL posionous no matter what colour. I don't know if that's true but I asked my teacher and she agreed so I think I will stay away from them. I really hope to post a picture or two soon. Enjoy your weather and I'll continue to enjoy the heat and sunshine (not to rub it in or anything!)

Love ya!
-Laura

written by  Laura Collins on October 19, 2008 from Moshi, Tanzania
from the travel blog: My Adventure in Tanzania
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Heya veteran,

We miss you here, but I'm glad to hear you're still enjoying your stay. I'm sure once you get to know the new volunteers, you'll all "klick" just as much as you did with the volunteers who had to leave. Good luck for your plans next weekend --- I hope they work out!!

Love, Sandra

P.S. Don't get poisoned by those snakes!

written by  Sandra B on October 19, 2008

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Jambo dada!
More home visits, that's cool. Is that something that is just part of the school structure in Tanzania? Or is it part of your program, getting to see how the locals live? If it's part of school what's the purpose? I'm imagining parent-teacher conferences at school here and trying to compare them.

So you are a regular at the art market! I'm expecting kubwa art now.

Love,
Amy

P.S. Don't get bitten!

written by  Amy on October 19, 2008

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yea, i agree with amy's advice....DON'T GET BITTEN :S
but take a picture of the snake if u can ;) hehe

that's SO crazy...it's already been halfway...?!?!?! 3 months seemed so long before you left but now that ur in the middle everything's passed by so fast...

written by  shannon on October 21, 2008

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Hi Laura

Sorry I haven't commented before now but we have all been following your blog entries and get excited when there is a new one - it must be so amazing to experience such a different culture and way of life! Can't wait to see your photos when you get back to London. Watch out for snakes! Love from us all Gill x

written by  Gill Laver on October 24, 2008

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iam glad you visited Tanzania ..its a wondrful place i stay at.

written by  ciero on November 15, 2012

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