Welcome to the official blog for Raleigh India 12I | July - August 2012



Welcome to the Official Blog for Raleigh India 12J September - December 2012.



Sunday 15 November 2009

Digging and the rain


Echo 4 in the forest

Moycey and I have just got back from visiting E4, E5 and C1 and there's been a great deal of digging going on in each group, but there's also been a fair bit of torrential rain to disrupt the proceedings. Fortunately the rain calmed down while we were there so the groups got a bit of a break from the wet and Moycey was able to get some good photos.



Pik and Avaneesh get sifting

E4 are working really hard on the ranger station and the plastering on the inside has now been completed. They've also been sifting sand for the cement through a giant, and quite flimsy, sieve and digging a hole for the septic tank.

We were treated to some fabulous food as the group decided to mark our arrival by having a cook off between two teams. One team made a couple of very impressive pizzas (they'd bought some fresh ingredients while on their day off the day before), using the facilities created by the previous Echo 4 group. I'm sure the ex Echo 4 lot will be pleased to know their oven is being put to good use! The second team made a gorgeous curry with some delicious rice and chappatis made from scratch. Although both teams' efforts were excellent, Team Curry won by a small margin after also being able to produce a pudding with left over chappatis and bananas. Ten out of ten for creativity!



Team Curry's creative efforts!

The next day we set off to Echo 5's site. The amount of rain had rendered the road too difficult for the jeep on previous days but we must have brought the sunshine as we managed to catch the group on a full day's work. They were digging a hole for the toilet block which meant soil had to be transferred from the hole to the other side of the elephant proof trench. The whole team had to set up a chain that involved some people (Ben, Charles and Holly) standing in the trench to pass the heavy buckets and then after they'd been emptied on the other side they were flung back over to the diggers, often covering everyone in the middle with mud!



Charles ready to catch the soil from Chloe



Ben and Shamnad watch the elephant

Our journey out of the forest that evening was filled with excitement as a lone bull elephant was standing by a waterhole near the road. There was no danger of being trampled so we were able to get out of the jeep and watch it for some time. Although the Echo groups see elephants fairly regularly, it makes a nice change to be able to see one so close and without any trees for it to hide behind. And it was certainly a special treat for us fieldbase staff.

That evening we were also treated to an amazing meal - a veggie version of an English breakfast - thanks to camp crafters of the day, Beth and Tony.

As it was Maddy's 19th birthday the next day they'd arranged a trip into Mysore to take a tour the silk factory, and as they left their camp, we also set off for our last group of the loop, Charlie 1.

The school in Multimoola is now covered in scaffolding - Indian-style - and the cement is drying on the roof, so while that is happening there has been lots of transporting stones and gravel, sifting sand, brick laying and unsurprisingly, lots more digging!



Luke puts the finishing touches to his mural

Luke has also put his creative talent to good use by painting one of the sides of the houses with a brilliant and colourful mural which really brightens up the village.



Charlie 1

The group's hard work was rewarded that evening as the village teacher invited us all round for pre-dinner snacks of hot plantain, boiled eggs and a selection of Indian sweets served with chai. The group were also able to catch up on some sports news as he treated us to a bit of TV! So it seems all groups are eating well and fieldbase staff are keen to get out to each group again. As that's our only loop trip this phase to the Echo groups and Charlie 1, we're hoping the trip to Charlie 2's tomorrow in Halsur will also live up to the our now very high food standards!

Here's some messages from the groups:
From Pik:

Thank you all so much for the birthday wishes (including comments on the blog, SMS and birthday card by post, I received and read them all ready.) I had a great birthday here. I am now in Team Echo 4 and working in an environmental project which we have to renovate a 101 year old house to be a ranger station. I am camping in the project site which is located in a jungle and I had chance to see wild deer just in front of me! (May go to see elephant tomorrow if it is sunny). I got my new glasses finally so everything is fine now. Oh right now I really realise that I have no chance to lose weight here even though I am working really hard today, coz I eat way too much…. Miss you all!
To gangs in Nine Lives: I can’t stop laughing when reading the birthday card, thank you so much, whoever reads this please help me to pass this message to the others and please also help me to wish Queenie having a good show.
For Sammi Concert with all my regards thanks!!!
Xxx

Hi Dad, Nat & Alice,
Got your messages, sound like you’re having a wonderful time. It’s finally stopped raining in the forest which is good! Am still having a lovely time, but am looking forward to Goa more and more! I can’t believe Alice is sitting up already, she’s going to be huge when I see her next! Can’t wait! What was the name of the town we stayed in Goa? Calangute? I’m becoming a little dubious about my lack of planning, but oh well, will just see what happens. Also got what I’ve assumed is a birthday card from you but am saving it for the 19th so thank you for that too!
Anyway love you all and see you in December
India xxx

Mum
Are you ignoring me?!
Not cool woman!
Hope you’re ok,
Love you India
Xxx

Hi Mum, Dad, Matt, Jodie, Ben & J-Dogg,
In the middle of Bandipur forest I have yet to see an elephant or tiger however I have plans to attract them to the campsite. Its been raining lots here however we finally have sun, time to get some washing done! Got stung by caterpillar of death but alls well. I also got Granny’s letter, parents you seem to be slacking in this department. Having a great time, hope you’re all well.

Matt, Jodie, Ben & James,
I’m alive and miss you a little but then the thought passes as I turn my attention to ants or butterflys.
See you in December
Love Emma xxx

From Ben
Daddio, Mumbly, Danger Dan & Monkey, Gregor, Calco, Nannybears, Colleen & Yvan, Barbara & Co, Valerie & Grandad, David & Liz
All good here – writing this from my “basha” – hand-made from bamboo, string and material. Yep, Echo 5 now. We are in Bandipur National Park digging an elephant proof trench around an anti-poaching camp. We take a jeep in everyday that takes about half an hour passing deer and occasionally elephants in the distance. Today we got out the jeep to take a good look at one a few hundred metres away. Hope you had a good birthday Dan and enjoyed Glasgow. Dad! Rowing lessons – nice one – anything to do with Colin per chance? Mum – glad the bangers and mash was tasty – we ate an Indian dish cooked by the Indian guys (Shamnad and Tony) that had the consistency of mash. Cal – internship sounds like its going well – hope so, hit me with it on my return. Greg – hope all’s good beastman.
Love to all
Ben x
PS Mum, those tiny scissors are tosh but the sarong is sterling

From James:

The Gurneys
We are having an amazing time in Mutilmoola – helping to build a school and toilet facilities for the tribal community. Some of the digging, carrying and sieving has been quite tiresome but seeing the impact we are making is really rewarding. We have also enjoyed days out to Sultan Bathery, the CTRD Trust and a tea factory. The weather has been quite moist but escapades like a massive mud fight have kept spirits high. Happy Birthday to Tom, Dad & Lucy. Thank you for your letters – I received the ones from you and granny today.
Lots of Love
James x

The Crocketts
M,D & S
Big hello from Mutilmoola! We are having an amazing time helping to build a school, which involves a lot of hole digging, sifting sand & moving bricks. The community is brilliant (especially the kids!). Hope you are all ok, miss you lots.
Love from Philipa xxx

To James
Here is your own personal blog! Got your letter today which was nice, thank you. Its been very rainy the last few days, we’ve had mud fights, hair washing sessions in the rain, our house was flooded! But luckily the rain went yesterday. The children here are adorable, I love seeing them all the time and they help us with the work which is cute. Hope you’re having enough days off, Mum said you’re working too hard.
Love you loads
Georgie Page xxxx

To Mum, Dad, Charlie & Abbie,
I got the package today which was amazing, thank you so much. Please also thank Nikki for her package and say hi to Alice & Joy and the Canadian Pages thank you. The kids here are awesome, they are always so happy and love spending time with us. Arun (10 years old) was looking at a pic of us three and thought Abbre was me! Says we are “double Georgie”! Glad Rome was great, over half way now, is going so quick.
Lots of love to you all and everyone at home who reads this.
Georgie Page xxxxx

Dear Hamiltons (and Malcolmsons!)
Thank you thank you for my package! I got very excited when I received it – all the way out here is our little village Mutilmoola. Very sad that I missed you (Liz & Dave) at fieldbase if that’s where you dropped the package off. Hope you are enjoying India. I love it. Hi to Rors, Ali & the dogs too. Looking forward to seeing you at Christmas, lots of love
Amy xx

Dad, Mothership & Sara B,
Hope you are all good. Its great here. I’m playing loads of cricket with the kids and learning loads about Indian culture. Letters on their way to Goftdown and Jagerslaan, hope you get them! First 20/20 today, I wonder how the boys did… my hopes aren’t high. Makhayas on fire!!! Let me know about how the trials are going & if Ferds hears anything about Middlesex.
Lots of love, can’t wait to see you all!
Tor xxx

Hej Allesammen
Elsker det stadig herude, er paa community phase. Bygger skole og leger med boernene. Massere af regn men stadig massere af sjou. Besoegte en the fabrik forleden. Haaber i har faaet mit breu fra phase 1. Jeg kan chekke internet paa mandag nok saa sender lige en mal.
Savner jer alle meget, haaber i har det godt!
KH Morten

Hi Mam
Got your letter and postcards on the loop. The photo of us all was great and all the villagers were fascinated by it. Having a great time this phase, different to the jungle, the work’s just as hard though, but just as rewarding. Time’s going so quick, can’t believe we’re half way through already. Hope everything’s ok your end and work’s fine. Marie – great to hear from you. The beards still coming along nicely and even letting the hair get longer. Work sounds stressful but at least you’ve got a nice trip to Oz coming up. Haven’t heard from Dad for a while so let him know I’m still alive when you see him. Wedding plans sound all good – looking forward to hearing all about it when I’m home.
Love to all of you.
Luke x

From Neil:
Lots of jungle love to my Dad for November 18th, happy birthday! x

48 comments:

  1. Hi Luke
    Great to hear from you, glad the letters, postcards and photos arrived safely. Got the photos of you yesterday and they were a lovely surprise! The artwork is fantastic.

    Marie and Ben were here on saturday and we've booked a 1940s coach for the wedding. Got to sit in it and it's just been renovated so it was like new (or new old!!).

    Glad you're enjoying what you are doing. I'm enjoying reading about it all!!!!

    lots and lots of love Mum xxx

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  2. Hi Victoria! It all still sounds brilliant. I'm in Philadelphia at the moment, last business trip this year. Can't wait to see you and hear about all your adventures. Love you loads Daddy xxxx

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  3. to everyone keep up the good work i think we all proud of you all

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  4. Hello Pip, looks and sounds like you're having a great time! Me matt and jim have just got back from Bailrigg, won our first two matches so far WOOO (and jim nearly scored a 40 yard screamer!). Everything is good back here at Hope Street, works still great and we haven't turned your room into a cinema/games room... yet! Hope you're okay, miss you and love you lots. Rob xxx

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  5. Hi Ben, I just typed you an update and then lost it I think before it sent so will try and remeber what I wrote. Fantastic to see some pics of you and to hear from you too. Sounds like you are working hard but having a fantastic time. Beautiful elephant! Notice you are wearing old specs in one photo, is this to protect your new ones from damage? scissors not so good then? oops. Glad to hear the homemade sarong is sterling, although thought you may have replaced it with a local silk one by now, ha! All good here. Went for a 20k bike ride this am on the newly opened path to mickle trafford and then back on country roads past the zoo. will write again soon. take care and lots of love mumbly xxxxx

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  6. philip + sarah stephenson15 November 2009 at 21:51

    At last....Chloe is not a figment of my imagination and it is good to see her throwing mud about, How amazing to see a truely wild elephant - it looks quite magical. Another letter is on it's way and I start jury service tomorrow. Looking forward to hearing all your adventures. Loads and loads of love M + D

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  7. Tor - great that you are getting to play loads of cricket! England won on Friday but lost today...but Eoin got 85 not out on Friday, had a facebook conversation with him he hoped all was well here so I told him about you being stalked by tigers!!! Just back from a Middx meeting at Lords - went well lots of plans for women and girls cricket in the offing...trials going well although we had to stop the net session early yesterday because there was too much chatting...naughty lot! just off to H-Ts for dinner letter in the post tomorrow to you...loads of love xxxx

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  8. Hi Daniel
    So excited to hear more news of how you're getting on with Echo 4. Looks hard work, hope the rain has'nt dampened your spirits. You're still smiling on the photograph but you look very muddy. Went to the O2 on Friday to see Muse and Dad ended up sat next to a real lunatic. They were really good but Dad says they are no 'elbow'. The journey there and back was horendous with the same weather conditions you seem to be experiencing.
    Dad has bought himeself a new hat for taking the dog out which Chris says makes him look like Indiana Jones. Dad has also been busy building a log cabin in the garden. Not what you think!
    England lost 1.0 to Brazil yesterday. No local football being played due to the bad weather.
    Can't wait to hear from you. Have you lost your pen?
    Can't believe you're already halfway through. Really miss you and hope you're still having a great time. Lots of people including Luke have said they're following you on the blog.
    Love you loads
    Mum, Dad & Chris

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  9. Hello Ben - great to hear from you and Echo 5. good picture of the heffa lump - is that my trusty minolta I see in your hand?? It's a very impressive elephant trench in the pic!!
    Had a wee shower or two eh by the sound of it - should have taken your brolly!
    Now you are over half way thru I am working up a good recipe for a homecoming curry for you. Just had sunday dinner - the usual!!!!!
    Thats all for now folks
    Keep digging
    Manly hugs from Dad x

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  10. Hello James,
    It is great to catch up on what you have been doing. You have all been working so hard but as you say it is very worthwhile.
    We have been celebrating with all the family here today. It is the birthday season in our house. Thank you for all the good wishes. Make sure you enjoy yours too.We will celebrate again when you come home. Everyone sends their love and Grandma hopes her letter arrives with you soon.
    Loads of love Mx

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  11. Hi Georgie, just to let you know we're having some rain too - but not digging in it!!!! Well Teasel is! Dever just watches and sighs...youth!Charles rode all day in London (Lord Mayors Parade) in pouring rain - happily the horses behved - Charles says be wary of elephants! All well here - its marking and reports season - my own little torrentials! I love the double Abbie! hope to see your folks et all soon - so much love from Stacy

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  12. Hi Ben - Dad again - Monday morning 16/11. Forgot to say in my last message that I was pleased to read that your sarong is getting good use - just go easy on the high heels and the eye shadow in case you scare the elephants !! D xx

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  13. Jamie Green,
    It's 4am here and I recently got back from the theater (more stuff to paint). I'm about to go to sleep (thank goodness), but I just wanted to let you know that it was great to see the pictures of you, and that I love you so much. I've been listening to tons of Clapton this week, and I miss you lots. Keep having fun!
    Love,
    Ava

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  14. OMA said...
    Hallo Alain,
    Missing Jou lot!!!!
    Big kiss from OMA

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  15. Yo Charles Lockhart,
    Just seen the latest pics of you standing in a muddy trench covered in mud throwing mud around. Having majored in this activity for much of your childhood I can't believe you went 000's of miles to another country to keep it going... Haven't heard for you in a while. did you get the 3 letters we have sent so far? Grandma went home today and is on the mend at last. May send you a letter herself. Granny coming on the 18th for 3 days. Now, just in case the messages take a while to reach you, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. HAPPY BIRTHDAY NUMBER 1 SON, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU (for the 19th). NOW WRITE SOMETHING TO US...... or I will send a full recording of my impending Swarbrick Singers concert in the next letter. Thereafter, every back recording of the VV concerts, DAILY. Love Mum

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  16. Hi Holly
    So great to spot you in the photo, you're looking really well! What an enormous mud bath - a great waterproofing test for those boots. Swine flu here -lots off with it but I've managed to dodge so far. Nanna and Grandad fine and always keen for an update. I'm popping over Friday evening and I'll take your latest photo. Natalie was amazed to hear what you are up to. Dad's excited - got some new speakers for ukes - massive! Think of you loads, Lots of love MUM XXX

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  17. Hi Luke,
    Your mural is amazing, mum sent me a copy of the picture Raleigh sent her. Very impressed with the hair and beard man. It's freezing here this week so you might want to keep it!
    Marie and I are off to Australia on Wed with Steve for 2 weeks. We'll send you a postcard, hope you get it before you leave.
    I can't beleive it's more than half way through already.
    See you soon, got a Nando's on order for you!!
    Lots of love Emma xxx

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  18. FOR MORTEN
    Hej kære søde gode yndlingsmellemstesøn brevskriver Morten !! SÅ fik vi endelig dit brev, vi var i sommerhuset og hente post igår og der lå det, hvor blev jeg dog glad og hvor var det dog et pragtfuldt brev. Og rigtigt dejligt at få et dybere indtryk af, hvordan du har det, hvad du laver og hvilke tanker du gør dig om det hele. Jeg kan ikke engang begynde at kommentere på det hele, og ej heller forestille mig, hvordan verden ser ud med dine øjne lige nu, men det lyder bare så intenst og spændende altsammen. Og rigtigt fedt at I kommunikerer så godt indbyrdes i gruppen! Og tak for din mail, som du sendte imorges, dejligt at få en "updated" hilsen. Jeg har sendt dig et lille brev til og nu ser jeg lige her på bloggen, at folk modtager PAKKER, selvom Raleigh udtrykkeligt har sagt, at familien ikke skal sende pakker, da Raleigh hverken kan afhente eller fortolde dem. Spørg dem lige, om det. Jeg ville elske at sende dig en pakke, men har holdt mig tilbage pga deres "forbud". Så det er altså ikke modvilje fra vores side at der ikke flyver skumbananer ind over junglen!!!!! Dit næste brev skal du bare sende til Holte, da vi forhåbentligt bor der om 7-9 dage (ja, det trækker lidt ud endnu, æv...) - vi henter nok ikke post i sommerhuset den næste tid. Ellers ikke så meget nyt herfra, har været sammen med Tina idag, hun har lige fået nyt job og var meget glad. Onsdag skal jeg med Anette til Sverige på indkøb, that's a new. Har set "A Christmas Carol" med Anders i lørdags, hyggeligt med lidt opvarmning til december :-) Ellers ikke så meget nyt, savner dig og tæller dagene til du kommer hjem (så din frisure på fotoet, er du ved at lægge an til dreadlocks, he-he...?) 1000 kys og kram mor (og hundeslik fra Niki, som logrer lige ved siden af mig og beder mig hilse og sige, at nu skal du altså snart komme hjem, nu må det være nok med det føjteri rundt blandt elefanter, aber og papegøjer!!!!)

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  19. Dear India - Echo 4

    Thanks for the message darling. Glad to hear you're 'enjoying' yourself! Looks like great fun... But, we can understand why you're looking forward to those beautiful Goan beaches(Uturda and Ashwem by the way). The town was Candolim, and then Calangute (where we had Xmas lunch was just in Calangute). Do you want any help with accommodation in Goa? We'd be happy to do some 'stuff' for you and send some ideas with phone numbers (including Pravin's!); we could book something in Bangalore and first few nights in Candolim (the place that Mark stayed in?). What are you doing about train travel?

    We're going to Cornwall from 13th to 17th December, Max says he'd like to come, do you fancy joining for a few days? Gran is back home and doing fine.

    Alice misses her big sister and can't wait to see you - same goes for us!

    Lots of love, Dad, Nat and Alice.xxxx

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  20. To Morten Jacobsen,

    Hej Morten, også en tak fra min side for dit fine brev. Det var rigtig godt at læse om, hvordan du har det og at du har det så fint, bliver jeg kun gladere af. Dog kommer jeg også til at savne dig mere, når jeg læser om dine oplevelser, men ikke kan høre din stemme eller se dit glade ansigt, så jeg er glad for at du ikke valgte at blive i Indien et helt år!!
    Her går det meget godt. Vi har fået dagligdagen til at gå meget godt her i Ubberød, men glæder os naturligvis til at flytte ind i løbet af næste uge. Jeg har gang i flere spændende projekter i øjeblikket og har i hvert fald meget nemmere ved at komme i kontakt med de rigtige personer her, i forhold til Rom.
    Jeg beklager at du modtog nyheden omkring vores tur til Argentina i små bidder, men det var nok fordi Martin sætte dig på kopi af en mail, hvor han skrev om turen. Mor har også skrevet til dig om det og vi har jo haft den plan i en del år, om at komme derned og besøge fa. Tylor m.v. Da ingen af jer har kritiske eksamer, som ligger lige for, så tog vi beslutningen om at det skulle være i år. Det er så også en slags fødselsdagsgave til mor, idet hun gerne ville ud og rejse med hele familien.
    Baseret på forslag fra Pato fandt vi billetter, der var til at betale. Det betyder godt nok at vi flyver fra London d. 27/12 til Toronto, Canada og derfra til Santiago, for så at ankomme i Buenos Aires ca. 24 timer senere!! Tid til en film eller to tænker jeg :-)))
    Vi er så i BA til 3/1, hvor vi bor hos Taylors, men kan vælge at være lige så aktive, som vi vil. Ines er også hjemme i denne periode og har vist en veninde på besøg fra hendes Uni i UK. Du må derfor indstille dig på at nyde Nytåret med skønheder fra Argentina i stedet for tilsvarende fra Rom!! Turen d. 3/1 går til det nordøstlige Argentina, som er op mod Andes bjergene og den sydligste det af det gamle Inka rige, som dækkede Peru og Bolivia også. Det skulle være et fantastisk sted og som du kunne se, så er der lagt lidt adventure ind i programmet, som vi forventer at du og Martin efterhånden er eksperter på. Mor og specielt jeg skal til at tage os sammen og se at komme i bare noglelunde form inden det går løs på mountain bikes mv. På vejen tilbage stopper vi op ved Foz Iguazu, så vi også får set dette underværk. Efter en enkelt overnatning i BA er det tilbage til Europa via Canada, så vi skulle være tilbage i DK 12/1.
    Jeg håber ikke det bliver for meget for dig, efter alle dine oplevelser i Indien (og Central Amerika!!!!), men når Vordingborg er næste stop, skal du nok komme ned på jorden igen ;)
    Jeg håber vi får et opkald fra dig snarest, idet det ville være så godt at høre din stemme igen. I mellemtiden, må du fortsat nyde dit ophold og jeg glæder mig til at høre, hvordan du har oplevet det social projekt i Charlie 1.
    Knus Far

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  21. For John Emmerson
    Hi Honey, love your picture. A couple of letters on the way. dad has sent an envelope with the telegraph sport pages for you to catch up with Adam. I sent a couple of quid to keep you going.
    All well here..have new pink car with fluffy pink seats. Snoopy still mainly obsessed with chicken, Chey well. Penny improving..more about that in my letter. Keep well and safe, we all miss you. Love from Mum

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  22. Hello Christina,

    Not much to report on from home. G will be here at the weekend - finished in Cardiff - we will be able to give him fresh bread, having mastered the art of bread making.We hope you have escaped the worst of the monsoons, the other groups have had it fairly damp!!! More letters on the way so keep up the good work. Enjoy the companionship and the experience. Izzy sends lots and lots of love and kisses and misses you, as do we all.
    All our love Mum and Dad and Auntie Mary, Linford and Evie xxxxxxx

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  23. HI Charles Lockhart,
    Mum again, just to add that Uncle William's internet is down so they all want me to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY! to you too for 19th. So does Grandma and most of Walgrave. Granny may have time to send you a message personally. If not, ditto from her. NOW SEND ONE BACK OR THE CONCERT RECORDINGS ARE IN THE POST....

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  24. chris braggs
    wow good work and see you got into the worthing herald with a nice picture i must of bought the shop outta papers lol. oh well going to get one framed we so proud of you, libby sends her love as well. told her about paper and bought her a copy of one as well. not got my letter from you. when you send it. also everyone says hi here is the list. mum ben. jasmine, sam. summer, ocean, laura, grace n luke. libby. john, all bens family, say hi auntie dot, rosie libs wifey, lol. and adam archer, had john over the other night, he ok.well been shopping, and running around as per usual. starting to copy you in your cooking. cant wait to see you. love mum and family. love you. xxxxxxxxxxxxx

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  25. For Anthony (Charlie 1): Hiya Ant. Lovely to see your photo on the blog. Looks like your having a great time and working hard. Jake is living with a family in Nicaragua at the moment and laying a new pipeline. He's having a ball (apart from having rice and beans for brekkie lunch and tea!He's back in Costa Rica next week so will update his facebook an leave you a message. Am very proud of the pair of you.... cant believe you both did it!All that fundraising was worthwhile. Lots of love and take care Ant and keep smiling in the photos so we know your ok!!

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  26. Hey Pik, great to hear you from the blog and happy to see your photos. You didn't look thinner at all :P Add oil to your work. We all supporting you and looking forward to your back!
    Great to know that you received the card finally. I was so scared it was lost on the way of posting.
    Anyway, enjoy your days~ :)
    Raka

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  27. To Charles Lockhart
    Only one day to go, only one day to go. Only one day before your 19th, Only one day to go.
    The CD's are being strapped onto the elephant as I write, and will be waved off in the direction of Karnataka if you don't write on or soon after your birthday. Love Mum. PS next stage - the Old Tyme Music Hall videos.

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  28. Hi Charlie Boy(Lockhart). I am up here for a day or 2 with Mum and Dad. Hope you have received some of my letters. I will keep writing anyway. We are going to celebrate the great day tomorrow with a bottle of champagne and I wish you a very very happy birthday. I wonder where you'll be for your 20th? Love Gran

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  29. To Charles Lockhart
    Happy 19th Birthday from Andrew, Joanna, Hugh, Ellne, Willima and Bud. Love the photograph of you in a trench.
    Andrew

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  30. To Charles Lockhart

    19 tomorrow; we and granny will be raising a glass.

    Have a fantastic day. The music Hall DVD's are already packed. I can't hold off your mother much longer!!!
    Much love DAD

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  31. Hi India,

    I'm not ignoring you just didn't know you were reading this all the time. Happy happy birthday. Sounds like you're having a fantastic time. Vicky looks all sorted and is collecting stuff for you. Love you and miss you lots.

    Mum
    xxxx

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  32. To India,
    HAPPY BIRTHDAY DARLING!!!
    Glad you got the card, we thought it was very appropriate!!! Ha Ha,
    Hope you have a great day it will be a birthday to remember!!
    Lots of love, Dad, Nat and Alice xxxxx

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  33. Emma - The echo 4 Group!
    Well hello we'v finaly found you! We'r missing you lot and lot! your adventures sound amazin, you look very dirty though, a good bath can sort that out! Green Bean would love a bath! We went samd boarding the other day was proper cool we went up a sand dune, and it was massive, we flow down. Beans fell off on the last go was so funny watching her rolling down a sand dune. we have sent you some prezzies, it your christmas prezzie early. Not joking!
    Anywho we hope you have an nice weather and will see you soon
    Be Safe
    Love Matt and GreenBean
    xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

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  34. To Charles Lockhart
    Its today!!!!!!!!
    Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday To You.
    Happy Birthday Dear CHAAARRRLLLSSSSSSSS, Happy Birthday To you.
    Love from everyone

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  35. chris braggs hello hope all ok. missing you like crazy still not got my letter from you hopefully get one soon. we all ok. love mum ben and family xxxxxxx

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  36. Hi Luke
    Just to let you know the girls are well on their way to Oz via Hong Kong (something to do with flight availability!).

    Heard on the radio this morning that Jenson is set to join Lewis at McLaren next year. The move is something to do with Brawn being run by mercedes and they wouldn't pay Jenson what he deserved as World Champion.

    It's Children in Need tomorrow and we're having a non uniform day to raise money. Gary Barlow arranged a concert at the Albert Hall in London last week and it's on telly tonight so I've got my curry ready for the oven and having a lazy night glued to the box!

    Hope you enjoy your last few days in the village, lots and lots of love Mum xx

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  37. To Emma - The Echo 4 Group!
    Well hello there its been awhile! We read what you been up to sounds wicked its been raining here to lots as well! Maybe its the same cloud! Hope your having fun and it cant be that long untill its your next phase! We'v send you a christmas presents but relise you'l be at home for christmas..! Not to worry! See you soon Love you...

    Matt

    XXX

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  38. Hi Beth,

    We thought it was about time we tried this blogging lark on the computermebob - we thought it might be difficult for wrinklies like us. Guess what? It's simples *****!

    We keep an eye on the blog to check on your progress - still trying to work out what goes into a vegetarian version of a full English!

    You should have had 3 letters by now. Looking forward to hearing what project you are allocated to next. Hope you will enjoy it as much as the first two stages.

    Looking forward to seeing you in just under 4 weeks (!!!) and having a mahousive slide show.

    Lots of love, hugs & kisses,

    xxx

    Rilla & Odin

    PS Did you catch any heffalumps?

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  39. Hi Holly
    Thinking of you. Hope the rain storms have stopped. The lights have just appeared on Christmas trees fixed above The George - reminder of your birthday meal last year!! Wondering if you've received any post yet - sent 3 letters and dad's sent some too. Love you, Mum xxx

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  40. Nicky!
    Check you out in your sari! you look fab! Things are all well at home. Mummy and I are just getting ready to go to lunch at the white horse and truffles is in a bad mood cus mummy hasnt washed his bowl today!!
    Only have 2 weeks left at Hollister thank goodness so if you want anything get your orders in now... I also get 30% off at Abercrombie now too! I'm looking forward to having some time off and Mummy and I have booked to go to Paris for the weekend. On wednesday I have a telephone interview for an internship in China which if I get (fingers crossed I dont want to jinx it I'll be off in Jan for two months! Very exciting times potentially!!
    Im missing having you here to chat to! Think it's going to get worst in the lead up to xmas! Hope you're feeling back to normal and that you're enjoying it out there, it sounds incredible from reading the blog!

    Lots of love Anita xxx

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  41. india! its vicky! im sat with your mum we just got all your stuff together and im ready to get the plane now! your mum has been worrying me about all sorts but dont worry i put her straight and said we will be too drunk to remember anyway! your mum has all my flight details as well so get in touch with her if you dont have them anymore in your room you had my flight written down with jet airways but its not its british airways. Will see you there then friend! love you lots xxxx

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  42. Dear Emma,
    I can see you are keeping up well.
    Hope the heat is not too bad. Looking forward to all your stories you have to tell when I talk to you again.
    Enjoy.
    Lots of love, Silvia

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  43. Page
    Dear Georgie, I keep posting blogs but never see them come up, I hope you are getting them. We have had rain this weekend, as the paper descibed it 'of biblical proportions', 12" in 24 hours up in Cumbria, dreadful floods, lots of bridges washed away and a lot of people homeless, not nice!
    This is your birthday week so I hope you are doing something pleasant and are not too deep in mud. Hope you have a really great day and even if my blogs are not getting through I hope the letters and card have done.
    I spent the w/e in Birmingham helping Carla at one of her shows, it was really hard work! we left the hotel at 6.45 a.m. and got back at 7p.m. and she had forgotten to take a chair!!!I'm getting too old for standing that length of time even if Ben does think I run on Duracell batteries!
    Mum is keeping us up to date on all your goings on but can't wait to hear all about it from you, time is going so fast now it wont be long before you are home so make the most of your last 3 weeks.
    Lots of love, Gran and granddad.xxxx

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  44. Hey Luke,
    Good to see a pic of you looking like you've done some hard graft. HAHA.
    Not much to inform you with as your mum keeps on top of things quite well. But I saw some football results this morning and one caught my eye that you might find funny. Wigan 1 Tottenham 9!!! Was Tottenham 1 - 0 Wigan at half time too.
    Defoe scored 5 of them... Bit of trivia for you. They are the first team in a premier league fixture to score 9 in a single mach since 1995, that team being "scum" against Ipswich.
    Hope to hear from you soon and see some more pics of the fine work you are all doing.

    All the best,

    Neil

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  45. Hi Amy we are in Nelpura near Alleppy and heading off to Cochin tomorrow for our last 2 days. We have ahd a fabulous time , and are also looking forward to hearing all your news.Hope the parcel from Uk arrived ok. Lotsoflove from us 4 in S India, Mum

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  46. To Georgie Page
    Happy birthday from all in Canada. We are all fine. Graham has been working hard. He was in Houston last week "On Business" (sounds impressive!) and goes back there next week. Derek is studying away at the University of Waterloo. Weather here mild and pleasant. None of this English rain!! We do need some snow for Christmas though.

    Love JJG&D ("the Canadian Pages")

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  47. Hey Georgie, how are you? I like the Sari - do you get to keep it? I am off to newcastle this weekend for a wild weekend with Davies and Han to see Lucy for her Birthday. I'm sure there will be some stories! Anyway my wonderful sister I am thinking of you all the time. Hope you're having lots of fun and can't wait to see you though it will be brief. Lots of love Katie xxxxxxxxx

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  48. Hi Tina
    IT'S THE CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN!!!!!!!
    Good morning, it's -4 degrees outside and the garden looks beautiful, the heavy frost makes it look like a winter wonderland, okay I'm getting a little carried away but you know what I'm like and it really does look pretty.
    I hope you've got my advent calender, it took me ages to make . I phoned Neil last night to wish him a happy birthday for today, said he'd got your letter. We received another letter from you yesterday, it sounds like your having a wonderful time.
    I've removed your bed out of your bedroom, thought you would like to sleep on the floor and added a few insects to keep you company....., this way you will feel like your still in India.
    Got to get ready for work now so have a good day and I'll be in touch soon.
    love, love love ya MUM, DAD AND ALL XXXXX

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