I am starting to feel quite hopeful about my immediate future. On Friday, I received a phone call from AGS – the shipping company – declaring that my container had just arrived in Malawi! I was shocked, especially considering the fact that I spoke to this same company the week prior, when they informed me that my container wasn’t expected in Lilongwe until mid-October or November. Despite several people telling me that the clearing process in customs may take many more weeks, the news filled me with a sense of hope and marked yet another turning point in my life in Lilongwe.

And I have decided if Andy does not receive his passport within the next few weeks, I will return to the states in October (post COP and after an Electronic Data Systems workshop in Lusaka). My whole being feels at peace knowing that I will see Andy one way or another. Hopefully, our reunion will take place here in Malawi. We will have some resolution next week when Andy returns to Houston. If the Venezuelan consulate can guarantee that his passport will be ready in a matter of weeks, we will wait. However, if they give him the standard, ‘one month’ or some other story, I will purchase my plane ticket that very same day!

On another note, I spent an amazing long weekend at the Lake. Tim, Emily and I headed back to Senga Bay, only this time we stayed at Cool Runnings (love the Jamaican namesake), a lovely lodge with extremely basic dormitory-style rooms, yet beautiful grounds and an amazing restaurant. What’s nice about Cool Runnings is that it’s nested in the heart of the village. I literally entertained myself for hours just walking up and down the beach taking photos! I truly feel in my element when I’m snapping away and interacting with locals – that’s when I also feel most alive!

Tim was able to get in on the Regatta action and was part of Cool Running’s crew, while Emily and I walked through the heart of ‘town’ and over to Safari Beach Lodge – which also provides an entry point to my favorite fishing beach! I’ve been there so many times that the children (and adults) all recognize me. I can’t stress enough how fabulous and friendly all the Malawians are…I am constantly greeted with huge smiles and beaming eyes!

I’d love to hear from all of you. Please write and let me know what you’re up to!

Much love,
Amy