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 27 March 2011

Tales of toilets and trenches...


A few days ago it was time to see how the gang at Charlie 2 were getting on with building 15 eco-sanitation units in BD Munti. And as it turns out they’re getting on really well and are ploughing through the work fueled by the sweet chai provided by the families they're working with. Naomi and I arrived in the morning while they were still hard at work in pairs at some of the houses in the village. Book was the day leader so she took us on a tour of the village to find the team working away and here’s who we found...

Book shows Naomi and I around the houses that the group are working at in BD Munti

Before we meet up with some of the groups, we stop to chat to some of the villagers.

Field base medic, the lovely Naomi and Book from Charlie 2 with some of the villagers of BD Munti.

Becky and Guy working hard on plastering the inside of the eco-sanitation toilet with their mason.

Book and Alex

Ross and Sian at the house where they're building the toilet.

Back to work after a quick chai break.

 Then we joined them for lunch to catch up and hand out everyone’s blog messages and post that had been sent from home much to everyone's enjoyment.

The school where the group are staying.
The group have been busy teaching at the school and have one of the neatest rotas I've seen on any of the camp sites.

Guy and the lady from our project partner MYKAPS share a joke as Becky and Katy read their mail.

Binika, Becky and Katy all reading mail from home. Some more shocking than others...

Katy reading the article about her fundraising efforts in a local newspaper sent from home. Brave lady but we love her new hair.

Charlie 2 on the school volley ball pitch that they've been making the most of.
L - R Phil, Chris, Book, Sian, Celine (PM), Cat (PM), Guy, Binika, Ross, Sophie, Alex, Becky and Katy.

The group are having a lovely time in between all the hard work and everyone there is happy and well and looking forward to attending a local wedding today so hopefully we'll see photos of them in their finery very soon. They gave me some messages for you at home which are all at the bottom of this post.

I also took a trip out to see Echo 4 in Basa Pura two days ago to catch up with them over lunch after their morning shift in the trenches. There was much talk of the thunder storms and the lightening that they'd seen the night before but luckily they didn't get too wet.

They’re all enjoying the digging and the spare time in the afternoon to teach at the local school, decorate their bashas or plan their evening entertainment. While I was there Jonny and Dan were deep in thought preparing a quiz for that night. I think it’s fair to say that Jonny was deeper in thought than Dan as he was more concerned about finding out who’d eaten some of his bread.

Jonny takes a break from preparing the quiz to show us his t-shirt that they were using as a camp flag.

Echo 4's shelter, shower and long drop.

I got a tour of some of the bashas including Ellie's covered in lovely photos.



Emily and Maddy

The group down in the trench with their camp behind them.
Back row L - R Clare, Jonny, Paz, Ed, Ellie, Ameze, Emily
Front row L - R Dan (PM), Mona (PM), David, Sarah, Sunil, Maddy, Andy and Flo.

While Maddy and Flo stayed back to watch the camp, the rest of the group and I headed into Basa Pura for some chai where the group are now pretty well known so get a very warm welcome from the villagers.



Dan waits for chai as many people watch on through the window.

Emily get's a fit of the giggles with the lady who runs the chai shop.

The family that run the chai shop in Basa Pura and some of their regular customers.

Echo 4's chai crew. How we all fitted in there I will never know.
 L - R Mona (PM), David, Jonny, Ed, Dan (PM), Clare, Sunil, Paz, Clare, Ellie, Andy and Emily.
Thanks Echo 4, I had a blast and will be back to see you before the end of the phase.

Then yesterday we ventured out to see the Echo 3 gang on the riverbank at Huskurhaddi which is always a great place to visit. There was a bit of rain while we were there which was actually a welcome change from the searing heat and a chance for everyone to get those ponchos out that haven’t been used much so far. Sophie had been with us at field base for a few days due to illness but she's much better now so has joined the rest of the group back at camp which is great.

They’re continuing to dig the trenches around the camp from sunrise to lunchtime and then making the most of the reservoir in the afternoons or heading into the local village a short walk away. Due to the weather, we spent most of the time under the shelter keeping dry so photo opportunities were limited but here are a few shots of the guys in their camp...

Kannan in his basha

Rob and Nic in the background.

Rob shows us the impressive shelf he's built at the end of his basha to hold all the essentials, a huge book and a torch.
Sophie and Simone


Back row L - R Kannan, Nic, Georgi, Hugh, sam, Alice, Rob, Laura
Front row L - R Ros (PM), Chloe, Scott, Sophie, Simone and Stu (PM)
I'm back on the road tomorrow for a few days as I head south to visit Charlie 1 in Vellary and then Tango 6 at their camp so I'll bring you more news of them soon. Una also took the long trip out to see Tango 5 this week so I'll be back with some news from then in the next few days.

I wanted to update everyone on the 10k fundraising as we've already smashed the target of £1,300.00 thanks to you lot which is 'super' as they would say here in India, with the essential head wobble too of course. So as there's still a week to go until we have to actually do the run (gulp!) we're going to keep fundraising and put the additional money towards other projects that we're working on at the local school in Jayapura and towards installing a model bio-gas unit at field base. Thanks again everyone, your sponsorship really is greatly appreciated.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/raleighindia11a

Here are the messages from the teams to you at home...
  
Charlie 2
From Katy Star
To Old bloke
Practicing my cement mixing and building up my guns for when i get back!! Am a pro at throwing it at the walls and lifting bricks! Loadsa love, Mouse x x x

From Katy Star
To Mothership
Received the Bridders news, looking forward to a good read!! It’s not Mother’s day til April apparently oops! Loadsa love, Mouse x x x

From Katy Star
To Dommer
Just got some post, yay thanks! Am v muscley from lifting bricks! Love you loads x x x

From Sophie van Dorp
To Robin Petersen
Lieve lieve robin, heb net nellies blog messages gelezen en oh oh oh GAAF. Je gaat het geweldie hebben en we gaan he il veel skypen! Curacao lekker warm, lega je missen (doe ik al) Iliefde en PS: Lieve allemaal: geef het door rechts gaat voor Oranje boven. X Sophie (Soapie)

From Ross Conquest
To The Conquests
Hi, hoe you are all well. Thanks for the messages! I didn’t forget about Grandma’s B-day, wish her a happy birthday and a happy birthday to Dad for the 31st!! No news on work which is frustrating, I’ll email them once I’ve got back. Ahh hope the doggies get better. Really enjoying Charlie 2 now. Fantastic village and people./ Missing you all loads I will call you once I’ve finished Raleigh.
Love you all lots
Ross x x x

From Becky Barnes
To friends and family
Hello all, I am really enjoying community and in a really lovely group. Thanks for all the blogs and post, it makes my day to receive it. Mum – have an amazing time in Venice – take lots of photos. Roz, I received once letter thanks gorgeous girl. Mel – congratulation – how exciting! Am so happy for you. Smoo – I cannot wait to see you again. Ruth – enjoy the last bit of travelling. Amy – your letter made me laugh out loud – it was like speaking to you. I can’t wait to catch up properly with everyone! Please could someone tell Phoebe that I fly into Malaysia on 27th for 2 nights and can contact her from 6th April. Please could someone tell Gina that I finish on 6th April and will be in Bangalore from the 6th. I would quite like to travel north but haven’t decided completely yet so need to talk.. I will be back in the UK on 30th April and can’t wait to see you all, Love you all loads
Bec x x

Echo 4 

From David Gutteridge
To Nigel
Hey Nigel, thanks for dropping me a line, always nice to hear from family over here. Glad that Cris’s party was great, really disappointed that I couldn’t be there to celebrate it with him, please give him all the best from me. Not so good about Sara but I doubt I would have been in a much better state. You will definitely have to come round for a watch when the F1 season starts all I have seen since trekking is cricket.  Glad to hear everything is good with you although I won’t be able to email you soon until I’m back home. Hope to hear from you soon.
Dave
PS Sea fishing sounds amazing, the Indian fishing I have done here is truly brutal.

From David Gutteridge
Hey Mum and Dad
Firstly I would like to thank you guys for all the blog messages you have been sending me, it’s always nice to hear news from home. Also thanks for the car packages, although I haven’t received either as yet (25/3) So far I am having an amazing time although it’s so strange to think that in 2 weeks I will be back home. Echo is amazing and despite the working hard I have so many chances to mix with the community. From teaching at the local school to gate crashing an Indian wedding. Hope to hear from you guys again soon.
PS I am more than happy to talk through my experiences with the heritage foundation when home
PPS I bet Simon is loving his holiday, I will have o think up new material for my return.
PPPS On a more boring note, can you make me an appointment for a new prescription for the 7th or 8th.
Thanks Dave x

From Emily Hodge
To Mum, Tim and Lydia
Just wondering if you are ok? Haven’t heard from you in so long. Emailed you a few weeks ago but haven’t managed to get internet again so if you replied then I haven’t read it. Can’t believe this time in 2 weeks I will be home, going to be so sad to leave here but getting excited to see you now. On Environmental phase now digging elephant trenches. So hot here, about 37 degrees the other day. Finally got ill after 7 weeks here , was horrible but a better now. Blog me if you can, would be nice to hear from you!
Love you loads, Emily x x x

From Emily Hodge
To Lorne
Just got your blog message, made me very happy to hear from you, feel like it’s bene years! On environmental phase now diggint elephant trenches but it’s so hot can only work til 11 then have the rest of the day free, it’s amazing. So crazy I’ll be home in 2 weeks but only going back for a few days from the 6th – 10th so we have to skype yes. Are you in NZ now? Miss you so so much can’t wait to speak to you, hope you’re behaving! Love you x x x x
PS haven’t bumped into BB yet!

From Martyn Parry
To Mum and Dad
All is good on Echo 4. Yes I’m up for a curry when I’m home as long as you’re paying.
See you soon, Martyn x

From Sunil Mistry
To Everyone
Hey guys, Last phase, having loads of fun! Nice to hear from all of you guys, definitely take you up on a nice cold beer when I get back Hinai! (Probably missin that the most on this phase!) Been to teach in a school which was really fun and met the kids and all the locals who all think I speak the local language! Can’t wait to see you all when i get back, wherever that is! I’m going travelling for about 2 weeks after Raleigh so you’re gonna have to wait to see me and hear my stories!
 
From Sarah Churlish
To Andrew
sorry dude, got your last message just as I was getting on the bys to Echo 4 so this is the first chance I’ve has to reply. So glad to know you’re keeping up with the blog, as you can see the white tights are gradually getting browner – very slowly. No ‘cow’ wasn’t the best I’ve got haha but the kids can’t say Sarah, it’s like Sha-rah ha ha. As for the thai pants – sorry dude guys don’t wear trousers here. I’ve been looking long and hard (mainly coz I want some) but there are none anywhere – maybe because I’m in India, Not Thailand – just a guess! I get back on the 16th now – sort out a Churlish sibling reunion in lancs yeah? It’s the ugly one’s Easter hols I think so as the middle Churlish, that’s your job. Get it sorted! Anyway, missing you lots. Can’t wait for a catch up and to show off my tan! Love you lots x x x

From Clare Lynch
To Yvette
Hey Yvette, Clare here. Am great thanks how are you? Yeah am having an amazing time, so hard but well worth it. I saw pictures of you in the CTRD book LOL al show you sometime back home. God there were so many times I wanted to go home he he, So what you been up to then? You been to fairbridge? Love from Clare x x

Echo 3

From Sophie Lethier To Dad
Happy Birthday! Hope you have a fantastic day. Lots of love, Sophie. Hope all is well.

From Simone Slagboom
To Daphne
Hi Daph! Hier alles gaed behalve dat de d and v door het hele kamp gaat. Ik heb zo veel zin om te kiezen! Ik ga de 15e naar Thailand maar super leuk dat we toch samen reizen! Nog een week en dan stuur ik je een langer bericht! Hoe is Holland? Tot shel! Xx Simone

From Scott Rae
To Andrew
Hello from the elephant trench! OMG I am loving all these posts – my group totally appreciate the celeb updates, the Justin Bieber news went down a treat. Still having a fab old time and for your information, no, I’m not loving curry any more than before. However, chai is probably the best thing in the world. Will give you guys a holler as soon as I’m back. Oh, major congrats to you all on the exam front!!! Scott x
PS – 9th April sounds awesome!
PPS – tell Ruth so sorry no time to reply and hell yes to salsa classes.

From Scott Rae
To Jen, Alan and Jamie
Hey! So nice to receive so many blog messages today. Having fun on environmental phase – manual labour totally isn’t my thing, but for my elephant friends I can compromise. Can’t believe I only have a week left! Hope Jamie’s recovered – looking forward to my welcome home cuddle. Also hope your course went well. See you very soon, Scott x

From Scott Rae
To Pam
Hi Pam! I got your letter! It was so nice to get snail mail amongst my array of blog messages! Having a great time on environmental phase – sadly, not long until it’s all over so enjoying every minute that’s left. I’ll callyou when I’m back to fill you in on my adventures. Hope you’re well. Scott x

From Scott Rae
To Mum
Hi! OK I’m on a tight time schedule so this is very brief – too many blog posts, too little time! Having an awesome time! No battery on mobile so will see you in Glasgow airport unless there’s a problem! So sorry this is brief! Scott x

From Scott Rae
To Nic
So nice to hear from you! Cannot wait to hear this gossip. Oh even reading the word pizza makes me salivate – I look forward to our evening. I have so many posts to respond to so I’m going to stop. Hope you’re well and see you very soon! Scott x

From Alice Corby
To Mum Corby
We have just received the blog. I have 7 messages from you as I think they have been brewing a while. I’m glad the 2 cuties are loving my nice white cushion. It’s getting hotter by the moment and we don’t have a lot of shade. I haven’t burnt though which is good. How did you hear about my camera? Pain in the bum but it’s fixed but it cost me! It would be nice to receive some treats but I don’t feel there is enough time now. It’s hard to know when you receive my letter and messages. Please let me know about train. I’m thinking about getting an internal flight from Goa to Delhi to save time. When I’m travelling I will call if I can. I’ll look into it. Yes I’m travelling with Sam. Blonde and tall. I told you about her before I went out I think. I will write to you again, haven’t really been feeling like writing last week but when next loop comes I will write. Please send me address as I forgot my address book. Sending lots of love. I hope your preparing my 5 course feast for just over a month’s time. Lots of love Alice x x x

From Alice Corby
To Jack Corby and Kjoersti
Thanks for writing to me finally! Ha! I think the hat is the height of fashion, yes trek was goo, really hard but did it. Knee was in a lot of pain. Hardest thing I’ve done and felt like a skank the whole time. It’s really hot here now, 38 degrees I think. It’s hard to dig and build in the heat. You can call me but it will cost so much money I expect but only at field base will be back there in 8 days and nearly the end of Raleigh, I will try and get a sim card to call you. I’m going to try and call Mum too, Send me your address and I will write to you. I went on facebook about 2 weeks ago but in England it was 4 in the morning. My camera broke so not many photos which is disappointing I can’t wait for nice food and my bed. It’s going to be so luxurious. I’m looking forward to travelling too. I will call when I can. Miss you, lots of love and hugs, Alice x x x

From Laura Bryce
To Chloe Bryce
Hey huni! Not long now until I’m home, hope you’re behaving. How come you dyed your hair black then lady? How did the dentist go? Just got mum’s letter and photos today (26.03.11) tell Joseph I said hello as I’ve only got enough time for one message. I will be home in 10 days hope the rooms tidy and you haven’t been wearing my clothes. Tell everyone I said hello and send my love.
Love you loads x x x

From Samantha Anderson
To Mum, dad, Tanya and Shelby
Hey guys, thanks for your blogs. Dad I’m glad to hear your eyes are ok! Have been worried. How did Shelby get on at Tina’s Has your cold gone yet? I’m not very well at the moment but everyone is looking after me which is lovely. Really looking forward to seeing you and excited about chilling on the patio. Love and miss you loads,. Big kisses x x x x x x x

From Sam Anderson
To Ellie Snowsill
Hey sweet, glad you’re doing a bit better and that pink is looking after you. Sorry to hear about EFJ
L What’s the new car called? Really missing you! Can’t wait to meet Bella, say hi to Jess for me – looking forward to seeing you and can’t wait ti experience your new CD player. Will ring after this phase nearly finished this phase so not long now until I’ll be back. Love you loads and miss you x x x x x

From Sam Anderson
To Dharmendra Patel
Georgi, did tell me, sorry to hear about it but glad to hear you’re still friends. I have your USB stick from Eeva and I won’t forget to bring them with me when we meet up. Now that trek is over I can see that I enjoyed it but won’t do another one! Will tell you everything when I see you. Missing you. Take care, much love Sam x x x

From Sam Anderson
To Keri
Yes Hun, too late to write me a letter now, there’s only 11 days left of expedition so only 31 days until I’m home! Tell Grahame he’s a moron! Glad you and Gary are ok. Got to keep this short so will text soon, love you x x x x

Tango 6

From Danielle Sharpe
To Jenny Hopton
Hey hun, sorry I didn’t reply sooner – I am currently trekking so makes sending messages harder! That’s okay for your present J what do you mean the earrings are getting stuck? Did you like the purse? Yeah I’ve been really busy but having a great time, I’m home so soon now! Aww bless Rhys, he has talk of a welcome home party in Lboro too! Free fest sounds amazing will be there! I can’t wait to see you! I miss you and love you lots xxx

From Ben Schroeder
To Charlotte Schroeder
Happy 21st! I know this is kinda premature but this is the last I’ll be able to contact you before the 27th. I hope your party is a banger and try not to be sad about the fact you’re nearly dead.
Love Ben x

From James Bell
To Rachel
Hey! I got your message on 19.03.11 and it was really nice to hear from you J. Go ahead with Rdg tickets hopefully people will be persuaded by Grosser. T6 is really good, everyone is having a great time hear even though the first few days were hell with the heat and terrain, but now I’m having so much fun. What was this about my arms? I hope you enjoyed Jodie’s stay over and that you are feeling better! Thinking of you lots, love James xxxx

From Georgia Brooke-Hitching
To Spencers 
Thank you so much for the birthday wishes! It’s amazing here, trekked 15km through thick Indian jungle today which was awesome, we were told to be careful of snakes and spiders but didn’t see any. Belated birthday wishes to Flora and I hope that Tom and Hannah have a great adventure in NYC! Lots of love, Georgia x

From Georgia Brooke-Hitching
To Zahra Sachedine
I’m so sorry I haven’t been in touch! It’s hard when trekking and this blog is the best I can do. Go ahead for Uganda tickets, if you’re still ok for it? As for Coulsons I haven’t been able to contact her again but I would love to help in the orphanage but I’m happy doing either, if you could pass that on I would be most grateful honey bun. We will have covered 300 m by the end of this 3 week phase by walking and cycling. It’s amazing and I can’t wait to see you! Lots of love Georgia xoxo

From Georgia Brooke-Hitching
To Maman et D
Thank you for the message, I got it! I’m now in Tango 6 and very excited about Tuesday. Going for Orphanage and Naivasha if possible. Re: Sophie – I’m happy to fly if Soph already booked it and I don’t know what else she has planned to do – and train might take too long. I’m happy either way. I think I also said we can stay in Bang because I think she wanted to see a few things there. Good luck to Matty I’ll be thinking of him! Scaling a massive mountain tomorrow – trek is amazing but probably the toughest thing I’ve done – very challenging but great! Blog is now my only contact till 3rd April – lots to tell you but I think I may have written too much already. On b-day I’ll be cycling! Rafting on Monday (our rest day) and had an elephant scare earlier, so now we’ve got  two fires going to ward them away. Send my love to bros, lots of love G xoxo miss you all.

From Georgia Brooke-Hitching
To Tilda MacDonald
Thank you for the tiffany birthday watch! It’s fab and goes well with my now very grubby arms. Already got that tattoo. Get drunk again for me, can’t wait to see you sometime. Love your stories honey, keep em coming they’re amazing. Miss you, lots of love Brookie.

From Georgia Brooke-Hitching
To Emily Thiede
Thank you so much for your message, I hope Edin is fun and you had a great b-day. Loving Tilda’s blog banter to you. Only four days into trek and everything’s starting to ache … by day 19 I should be a walking casualty! You’d love the views here but not many rivers as its dry season.  Talk to you soonish, lots of love Brookie xoxo

From Georgia Zervudachi
To Mum, Dad and Seamus
Well this is hardcore…….The views are incredible, and you would not believe the vertical mountains that I’m scaling – 13.5 km tomorrow woo hoop! Luckily we are singing lots to keep us going! Was the mayonnaise comment what I thought it was? Seriously?! Hope all is well – it’s definitely all good in the hood here J lots of love Georgia xxx

From Lottie Verrall
To Dad etc..
Hi, hope everyone is well and missing me lots. Ha just though I would write to tell you trek is incredible and I’m enjoying every day. Spent a whole day in a dense jungle today, was basically Jurassic Park. Yet to see a Dinosaur yet, very upsetting. Doing 13.5 km up a mountain tomorrow which scares me slightly Anyways looking forward to seeing you all in a couple of weeks. Love you Lottie xxxx

From Andrew Richardson
To All
Hi all, hope you’re all well. Now 4 days into trek, it is intense and really tough. Seen some amazing scenery and dense forests. Tomorrow will involve a very steep mountain (bag free yeah!) Then a day off rafting. Mountain biking should be good too. I’m a bit ill with a bad stomach but coping with the walks and looking after muscles. Only 2 weeks till I’m done now. Can’t wait to see Kent life again!

From Becca Hulbert
To Mum, Dad, Bean
Hello…. I’m out on trek and really really loving it. I am in my element. They are a fun group, great views, good exercise, lots of camp fires and washing in streams. I look forward to speaking to you when I get back. I love you very much xxx PS thank you so much for my walking poles Bean. Couldn’t do it without them, I think of you on every hill – can’t wait to see you. I think I’m going to come live with you for more sissa time. When I’m back! Xxx

Charlie 1

From Emily Howell
To Rachel Bradley
Hey my love, thanks so much for blogging me, this is so much easier than 20 min internet every 3 weeks! So my flight home is booked for 8 June from Bangalore to Heathrow so would like to be back in Bangalore about 6th June (not too much longer coz I don’t fancy the monsoon season! A lot of people on Raleigh are travelling until the end of April so I’d be with them till then. Goa, Mumbai, Agra, Hampi etc. Then I guess I’ll be on my own till I meet you! So would you like to do Nepal earlier? Maybe 10th or 5th of May or something? I haven’t had a chance to check flights yet so I have no idea of prices or whether I should try to get there without flying, but I could technically hang around in Delhi till I come to Nepal? Need to find out about visas and stuff. I then need to get back to Bangalore. Gonna have to find some bargains to keep my money supply going! Anyway let me know what you think x PS not sure about the whole trekking thing in Nepal as I’ve just come back from a 19 day trek, so I’m kind of all trekked out!

From Emily Howell
To Mum, Dad, Charlie, Stan
Hi all! Am now in a little village called Vellary in Kerala for community, building a biogas unit, a cowshed and a house! V happy to have got this phase, the biogas units are amazing! We’re staying ina family’s front garden and get lunch and dinner cooked for us by the family, the food is incredible! Recovered from trek now just about, feel very fit and proud of myself for doing it about 250 km walking and cycling through Kerala, even with the dreaded India illness! Am organizing some travel with Rachel so I’ll let you know my plans when I know them. Miss you loads! Haven’t heard from you in a while so hope you’re all okay? X

From Genevieve McAreavey
To John and Liz McAreavey
Heya Daddy and Mummy, was just thinking it is Thursday and you will be having Burger Thursday, wanted to let you know I was thinking about you. It was our first day working the village today. We have done so much. I’m really enjoying being here it’s such a beautiful place. We are living in tents in the front garden of one of the families’ house, so funny because people in Britain would be totally weirded out.  I’m loving the food here it’s really tasty and not too spicy. I feel like the families here really appreciate our presence, they keep on giving us snacks on our breaks and chai. They are all so welcoming and generous. Love you loads, Genevieve xx

From James Hollins
To Ian Burrows
Hello Ian, I am looking forward to playing golf when I get back hopefully the sun will be shining!! The weather here is constantly sunny and around 30 degrees every single day, I’ve got used to it though which is good. Sounds like Spring is on the way in the UK. Bell ringing sounds like it was fun, but it’s a shame about the poor conditions on the ski slopes. Everything here is going well on Charlie 1, it’s so fun, I’m helping build a house and a bio-gas unit for the family, it’s really hands on. Hope everything back home is good, see you in May for golf! James x

From James Hollins
To Sarah Hollins and Tom Wells
Hi Sarah, hope you are well in sunny Hull, I’m disappointed you never sent me a pic of sunny Hull. I’m actually used to the heat, so 40 degrees should be fine, perhaps it’s the beard!! I have recently shaved it off cause it was getting too long, but I’m growing it back, so hopefully will look gypo like you! Also say hi to Demi-god for me, unfortunately no shrines have been erected to me yet but come May there will be lol. Your diet sounds healthy as usual Tom, and I’ve tanned way too much!! Our pirate ship will be fun to finish when I get back. In face the work here will help me with finishing it when I get back. I reckon 40 degrees will be cold as well. Anyway Tom hope the cycling is coming on nicely, and that you’re keeping up with your training regime. Take care and I’ll see you in May. Lots of love, James

From James Hollins
To Mum (Suzie Hollins)
I’m sorry about our short conversation last time, I was in such a rush. Thanks so much for sorting out my flights, 17th May sounds really good. I’m going to Goa and Bangalore and other places too like Hampi. It will be fun!! I will ring you on the 3rd April. When I go into Mysore. I’m on Charlie 1 at the moment and it’s really good. We’re building a house for a man in Kerala whose house got ruined during the Monsoon. It is very humbling a the moment because he lives in a shack at the moment with his wife and 3 kids. He is always so friendly and offers us, tea, coffee and sweets. The weather is beautiful as always and we’re going on a tiger safari next week. The scenery is amazing and there are coconut trees and palm trees everywhere. Anyways thanks so much for everything, I love you lots and lots and see you in May, James x

From James Hollins
To Tom Hollins
Hi Tom, hope everything’s going ok. Sounds good that your exams are over. I hope that you are relaxing and playing on the Xbox. I will ring you on 3rd April, it was really good to hear some actual football scores. Keep me informed on the F1 I heard the first was cancelled. Love from James x

From Sheena Jagjiwan
To Jemini
Hey party people how are you? I’m so glad that Maks did the abseil. Wish I was there for the that and the Bingo night. Well the hair is under control yay! I’m not digging anymore – sad times hehe, I’m building a bio-gas unit, a house and a shed. I can’t wait to come back and show you pictures and tell you stories. When you see Nacita give her my love and say hi to Remi! I can’t wait to find out baby bump’s name! Love you all Sheena x

From Sheena Jagjiwan
To Arti
Hey chick how are you? How are Sital and Roshil? What have you been up to? I’m having such a great time here, but missing you girls. What’s the gossip? What’s been happening? Hope you’re good and the family’s fine, lots of love Sheena x

From Sheena Jagjiwan
To Mum, Nita and Hema
Hey guys how are you? Hope you’re fine I’m on the last phase now, and I love it! The food is great, the family here is so nice and I’m loving it! Got bitten but it’s going down. Speak to you soon, Sheena x

From Laura Oakley
To Paula Oakley
Hey Poo, thank you for your blog message. Glad to hear from you all enjoyed my phone call! Hoping your parcels arrive soon. Out on Charlie 1 now and it’s awesome. Living in a family’s front yard in tents, eating their food, and working next door. We’re building a house, cowshed and biogas units, so lots to do. I’ve been a bit unwell again but really enjoying myself and having an awesome time. Send this message on to Mum and Dad too. Love you all, take care. Oh and don’t worry there’s a cow here I can hug! Lol! xLaurax

From Wieger van Rinkhuyzen
To M, P, D
Lieve 3, community is Fenomenaa!! Je ziet de mensen waarvoor je elke dag staat te zweten. Ze kunnen alle hulp gebruiken! De interactive us zo leuk! Ik stuur geen brieven meer, want ben in minder dan 3 weken thris! Ik kan niet wachten! Volgende loop-visit duurt even, duz zal voorlopig niet kunnen antwoorden. Heel veel liefs, ik hou van jullie, Wieger

From Richard Smith
To Anne Smith
Hey Mum, I’ve just arrived at Charlie 1, it’s amazing the team will be building a house, bio-gas and cow shed. The community are so firnedly and the energy levels of this group are amazing. Raleigh have given the Venturers full power in running the projects, which is a real challenge, and me being me took on the role of chairman haha. All is good check the blog pass it on to friends, the best phase so far! Love Richard x

From Anne-Romee Coebergh
To Familie Coebergh
Lieve allemaal, Dank jullie voor berichten, ooli een erg leuk bericht van oom Tijo! Hier is het fantastisch, helaas nog niet gezond, meer super project! Brief met meer info is onderweg, net als brieven naar B&B, Nonna en vriendinnen. We willen nien. Hoop dat alles goed gaat! Veel liefs xxx Anne-Romee

From Anne-Romee Coebergh
To Julie Coebergh
Lieve Julie, Thanx voor je bericht. Het is hier top! Youw programma lilhlet ooh goed, gerleet ervan en feest voor 2 opalle feesten die ik mis! Houd me op de hoogte over hoe alles was, liefs aan iedereen ook m’n friends, geef liet door! Dikhe xxx Anne-Romee

38 comments:

  1. To David Gutteridge (Echo4)
    Hi Dave, good to see some photos and read your message. Glad you're OK and enjoying the experience. Australian GP was today - Nigel didn't come over as it was early UK time so I watched alone. Result was
    1. Vettel 2. Hamilton 3. Petrov (!!) 4. Alonso (boo) 5. Webber 6. Button
    Not a great race (Button got a drive through penalty after tangling with Massa hence his 6th place). Schumi got a puncture 1st lap and DNF, Rosberg got taken out by Barrichelo and both DNF. Vettel was in pole and led the entire race and was about 1 sec a lap faster than the field including Webber. Next Malaysia in 2 weeks.
    All for now. All the best. Dad xx

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  2. To Georgi Tandy (Echo 3)
    Rawr then got back from st ives then and now reply, gosh =p.
    anyways st ives was awesome, spent too much money and met loads of new people from my course including more from glos so =D.
    Hope your enjoying your trench digging then and isnt too warm over there, spent all of last week at a different beech each day =p. Finish this term on the 1st and got loads of bdays to go to back home and am already out of money =p, and i think i dont have to get back to uni till the start of may btw =).
    so hope to see you soon, your back the 6th right? and hope your missing me still =) xxxxxx

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  3. To Andy Richardson Tango 6
    Hello! Don't know if you will get this but hey! So lovely to see your messages. The trek sounds amazing! Must be exhausting but I bet the views are awesome (I don't envy you the 6 am wake up call though!). Very sorry to hear you're ill, hope you feel better very soon!
    Not much happening over here, only a week left of term, yay! Had my dance show a couple of weeks ago which was awesome, now I've just got essays to look forward to, what fun!
    Hope you enjoy the rafting and biking, sounds like great fun. You must be getting very fit, Scafell will be a doddle this summer, haha! Really looking forward to seeing you soon and hearing about everything :D take care and enjoy the rest of the trek! Much love, Emma xxxxxxx

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  4. James Bell - Tango 6
    hey james, im confused as to which messages you've received from me but im just going to write you another one! im sorry you found the start of your trek a challenge but so glad you're enjoying it now! are you looking forward to your extra travelling afterwards? what are your plans for that? and how many people are joining you?? i've broken up now - cannot believe how fast this term has gone... just like you said! im at home this weekend but going to fuertaventura on tuesday, should be gurrrrd (and expensive)! and then revising to occupy me until you come home! i actually can't wait to see you! i had a dream last night that i fell asleep at the dinner table with you and your family and you just left me there until the morning!! haha how nice of you :) looking forward to hearing from you soon!!! love xxxxxx

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  5. for Lottie on T6.
    Great message thanks. Hope this third one gets through!! Course you're missed, all very jealous of the sights, people, etc, although not sure about all the hard work. Harvey says Hi and what about the tiggers? Expect it's all flashed past? See you in H'row, but talk when you're back in base. Loads of love, Papa V, Nats, and everyone.

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  6. To James Hollins (Charlie 1)
    Hi Jimmo,
    I have sent you photos from sunny hull! I posted you a letter and post cards a few weeks ago, can't quite remember when but hopefully they'll get to you before you toddle off on your own!
    Tom's got a new job as a music producer in Hull, so obviously he'll be a big-shot by the time you get back haha! He's also having to cycle to work every day, so is actually getting some training in! His bike will also soon be workable in more than one gear soon so he'll have no excuses soon!
    In other exciting news..I have got a fringe, however it may well have grown out by the time that you get back! You miss so much exciting stuff!haha.
    Are you in training for the 10km run? Or do you not need to be with all the work that you're doing and you'll come back even fitter than you left!?
    Tis nice to hear from you anyway, I miss you! Its mother's day a week today on the 3rd of April so try to send mother some sort of message! But never fear her favourite child (me) is still here to get her a present that I can pretend is from you too haha.
    Have fun on your tiger safari! It must be nice to know that what you're doing has a massive positive impact on other people's lives. Be careful when you go off on your own as well!
    Was F1 today (not that I watched it)..but Vettel won followed by Hamilton and Petrov who is apparently the first Russian to be on podium..exciting stuff.
    Lots and lots of love Sarah xxxxx

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  7. To Jess Gibbons
    Hello again, we here from face book that you have deli belly hope its gone soon, the sun is shining here and its quite warm lets hope it lasts. Christine has just sold her flat so she will probable be moving in soon so there goes your bedroom, but I thought you could move your stuff when you get back ?. Your Dad is still o.k. he goes back to the hospital on the 7th and he has an appointment with the stroke doctor on the 12th and I go back for my eye on the 14th so April is a make or break month. Any way everybody is well and looking forward to you getting home, what do you want for dinner ?. lots of love Mum x

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  8. to KATY STAR

    Hi Bob.
    Don't mind me, just been looking at the new photos - HURRAH! There are actually ones of you this time! Surprised to see how white you are still looking, but very lovely to see real pictures of you and SO nice to see you smiling and jumping on people and looking like you are having fun. I'm really impressed actually with how practical you must be becoming, you will have to teach me and we can be labourers together at the Old Blokes Site.
    Anyway, really I am procrastinating because I'm meant to be writing a personal statement for university apps so I shall get back to work!
    Love you mate
    MortBOB
    xxxxx

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  9. Dave PM Charlie 1
    Hey you, hows it going? It alls looks fabulous on the blog and I'm looking forward to spending about 3 weeks when you get back looking through all the photos I expect you've taken!
    Its been a busy week here and Tuesday I did my poster presentation followed by an academic review with my personal tutor who's got to be the most ignorant person i've ever met.........could have done with a hug that day I can tell you! Fortunately the rest of the week improved. The weather has been beautiful and Sophie and I did a walk at the beach on Friday and she dipped her toes in the sea but I decided against it when I saw the look of shock on her face!! Nicky and I went for a 6 mile walk this morning starting at the Horton Inn and ended up there for a great roast followed by chocolate pudding.....looooovely :) I even mowed the lawn when I got home so I'm feeling very virtuous.
    Well I hope you enjoy the final part of the phase and I guess there will be some celebrating to do before it all comes to an end (will the shirt be making an appearance??)
    Take care and I miss you
    Love Karen x

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  10. To Wieger van Rinkhuyzen, Charlie 1

    Lieve Wieger,
    Vandaag eindelijk weer eens een update en een blog-berichtje van jou. Geweldig dat je zo geniet van Community project. We kunnen het bijna niet geloven dat je over anderhalve week thuis bent, het is zelfs voor ons heel snel gegaan. Zijn razend benieuwd naar alle verhalen. Begrijp dat je schoon weer in het vliegtuig stapt, dus dat scheelt! Dit weekend is zomertijd ingegaan, dus nu een uur minder tijdverschil met jou. Zag in ander blog-bericht dat jullie op tijger-safari gaan? Inmiddels wellicht al gebeurd. We worden regelmatig aangesproken door allerlei mensen die willen weten hoe het met je gaat en wat ervaringen zijn. Denk dat het leuk is als je straks een soort verslag maakt en aan al jouw "sponsors" brengt. Ruik je je eigen bedje al? Wij zijn druk bezig met laatste loodjes om alles netjes te maken na schilder. Dinsdag wordt vloerbedekking op trap gelegd en dan moet alles klaar zijn. Lieve schat, geniet nog van de laatste loodjes!! We kijken uit naar volgende week. Heel veel liefs, Mam

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  11. Hi Richard Charlie 1
    I thought you would like this phase the best. Looking forward to seeing you and hearing all about it. Your train home is booked for 12th April. Loving the blog and I have passed it to your friends and posted every photograph with you in it. Messages on Facebook but I dont think they have been able to use the blog, but this old codger can. I have been busy painting and gardening now that the snow has gone. See you soon. Let me know when you are at James' love Mum xxx

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  12. James Hollins (Charlie 1)

    Hi James, great to hear from you! I just got your message today (27/3). Sounds like you are doing really worthwhile projects in India! Georgie got her new car last week, it's awesome, really fast. Though we are having to drive it nicely to break it in! The F1 today was won by vettel, Hamilton 2nd, pretty good race, though nothing too exciting this time. Man Utd are vs Chelsea in Champions League. Real Madrid v Tottenham. I have 2 more weeks of study before Easter, then 1 month off.

    Are you going to go travelling afterwards with Raleigh people? You'll have to come down to Bristol when you get back for a bit then we can go out, xbox etc. Hope your week is going well! Talk soon xxx

    Tom

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  13. To Scott Rae Echo4
    This may well be the last blog before you retuen assuming it actually gets to you.
    We had a great holiday, very restful, didn't do a lot other than laze about and read.
    Just got back in time to head to Hampden for the League Cup Final - Rangers 2 - Celtic 1.
    Weather here good this week so out on the golf course enjoying it, golf reasonable and back holding up well.
    Not sure who all will be at the airport but we will look forward to seeing you then.
    Dad

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  14. to sheena jagjiwan on charlie 1

    hey brillant that you're loving things!! we're all good.....can't beleive time is going so quick...just let you know we're going to sharon on sunday 10th and booked you too..but you can cancel when you get back if you don't want it...
    ...anyway see you later
    mum says she loves you
    mum & nita

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  15. To Katy Star Charlie 2
    Hi Katy good to see those muscles growing and the hair as well. Looks like you are having more fun on this job than the trek,sorry ,maybe you have blanked that from your mind! We have had some lovely sunshine this week and Joanna is now 30! She is still in shock I think! We had a lovley day on tues both taking the day off. We went to WB and walked along the beach to the Hive and had a crab sandwich and although it cost £8.15 it was very yummy. Shocking really as imagine what that would buy in India. We walked back across the cliff and had to wade the river at freshwater,that was cold! In the evening we went to the George at WB, whoops shouldn't admit to that! Joanna drank a bit too much but that's what you do I suppose. The film festival leaflets are out but it wont be the same without you. Enjoy your last week,bet you are looking forward to seeing Jane. Lots of love and take care.xxxxx

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  16. Katy Stocker Charlie 2
    Hi Honey
    It was lovely to see photos of you on the blog looking very fit and well. I am glad you are working on your muscles for building and your cement throwing techniques,they will be very useful when the 'big dig' starts!
    I have given the parcel to Jane to bring out which has also got a long letter in it written this morning in Costas! She wants to contact you about possibly returning home with you as her plans have changed after India.
    All is very good here, lots of sunshine at the mo, everything up at the plot is very dry. The rain is waiting until the build starts!
    Dom says the kittoons are HUGE, you won't recognise them.
    Looking forward to seeing you. Love you loads. Dad xxxxxx

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  17. To Laura Oakley, Charlie 1

    Hey Loo, just read your Blog message, ta muchous for that!!! Glad you have a cow to hug, I stroked Toffee today! The bunny kind. Yes, I have been to observe Alfie in his natural habitat and can confirm he is also a high wire there. Went for a stroll in the New Forest - so close to their house! Saw ponies and cows :)couldn't hug them without a trip to A&E, so didn't. Dad moo'ed really loudly at the cows, you could hear it resonate an echo across the land. The cows didn't reply nor did they even look up form their grazing....however, a bird replied, we think it was a pheasant! Was very funny, every time Dad moo'ed the pheasant replied! Even at his age dad can still attract a bird! Albeit the feathered kind.

    Gate crashed the film set of The Only Way Is Essex last night, well, felt like it, we had vip into a Bedford Place dive and totally felt stupid as we we're in fancy dress and the bar/club has a no fancy dress policy! Yeah exactly! In vip area all the girls looked the same; bodycon skimming the very top of thigh, massive matted air extensions, eyes that make panda markings look small, bare legs and fake tan to the hilt, so much slap that their faces looked muddy....trouble is we were Pink Ladies and my friend was Sandra Dee in a yellow below the knee yellow summer dress and blonde wig....we had to laugh! All the Tangoed Clones looked at us horrified that we had the gall to embark on their haunt! To top it off the place stank of cheese! We came to the conclusion it was the smell of fake tan melting under the bare foot sweaty soles in 9inch sky scraper shoe boots. We're thinking of hanging up our partying shoes and joining the knittng quore of WI :) But then again!??? maybe just one more week. Don't come back to this sad fabric life,everywhere here is hideous, stay in India where people are humble and a pleasure to engage with. If I could I would! However, pop-back for a little while as we all miss you! Love always Poo xxx

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  18. To David Gutteridge Echo 4
    Great to get your blog and see photo's of where you are. You look so brown in the photo's it must be very hot. Glad your having such a great time. I will book the appointment for you. Dad is going to send a message about the Grand Prix and I've warned your brother to expect retribution. 100 arrested over march vandalism but no other changes in the news
    Thinking of you
    Mum

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  19. Sarah Churlish (Echo 4) - LO Princess Caught the blog this morning before starting work so good to see you again. A lot of the blog chatter was about the lightning storm so it must have been awesome. I will try and write agin this week before you leave Raleigh and head off further afield. Not a lot happening here, I'm travelling around, your mams flapping around and john is been in the same position on the sette as when you left in January. He occasionally moves to put his plate on the floor. I have a good video of him in his barbershop quartet at a concert the other night. I would put it on you tube if I could figure out how to do it. Anyway he is still pretty much a girl (beat him at arm wrestling twice). I had lunch with andy the other day which was good, I was on the way back from Liverpool which was also good, he seems to be doing ok, working hard, playing hard etc etc. He is planning a trip home soon I believe, hopefully to cover me and you mam when we are both away. We decided if we leave john on his own he will starve, the dogs will starve and the cat would move into carol's. A Facebook party and you are going to miss it. I will try and fire off a letter before you leave Raleigh. Take care for now princess, love you loads. D xxxxxx

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  20. To Florine Boer - Echo 4

    Floo!
    De Health Business Week begint over 1,5 uur al dus stress en paniek alom. Nee hoor, het gaat helemaal goed komen. Alles staat strak en we hebben ons mooiste pakkie aan;)De meeste ouders komen en we kijken nu al uit naar de mooie borrel achteraf!
    Hoe is het daar? Leuk wel die foto in een loopgraf.
    Ook Goudkoorts is inmiddels begonnnen, morgen het eerste grote feest. Moeilijk veel zin in!
    Nou meid nog een paar dagen knallen en je zit alweer in Nederland, ik ben benieuwd hoe je het vindt met al die luxe weer!

    Liefs,
    Matthijs

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  21. Jeanette Burton28 March 2011 at 19:28

    To Ellie Burton : Tango 5

    Hyah sweetheart.

    Hope you are well and enjoying the last stages of the trek. Got your facebook email today, and will send my response to you for when you get back to the big city.
    It's good to know that you could actually remember where the elephant sanctuary was, and that the scenery so far has not failed to impress.
    We have now put the clock forward in the UK, which means longer days and hopefully the promise of better weather to follow. Although saying that the last 5 or so days here have been quite warm,(no comparisson to what you are experiencing in India), with people wearing t- shirts, and I have even allowed Chris in work to have the window open plus the heating turned off!!
    Apparently one of the driest March's on record, so watch out for the hosepipe bans.....!!!

    Speak soon

    lots of love

    Mum.xxxxxxxxxx

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  22. mum dad tanya shelby28 March 2011 at 19:45

    samantha anderson echo 3
    just got your blog, hope your feeling better you didn`t say what was wrong still sunny but still a bit cold not shorts weather, your travelling with alice lottie who else,not long now this last bit seems to off gone quick, miss you loads lots of love & kisses xxxxxxxxxxxx

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  23. to sean cullinane charlie 1
    hi ya sean how ya doing bet your still having the same weather,hope your still having a great time,the weather here has been sunshining a bit chilly this morning then warmed up later everybody asked how you were told them your having a great time,everybody back home is ok i'll keep sending messages for now xx

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  24. To James Hollins Charlie 1
    Hi James hope all is going well with the house building,at least you will be able to put it on your cv and maybe get a job on a building site!!
    Thanks for your blog we have all received them and love to hear your news and what you are up to. Going on a tiger safari, we are all very envious and hope you see some! take a picture if you do. Looking forward to our next call on Sunday. Take care and enjoy yourself. Lots and lots of love. Mum xxxxxx

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  25. To Florine Boer - Echo 4

    Flooo!
    De opening was super mooi en de borrel ook:)
    Net even lekker uit eten geweest met de commissie en het bestuur. Was dolletjes.
    Morgen naar een inhousedag van een consultancy bedrijf uit de zorgsector, ben zeer benieuwd.
    ZO te zien blijft het chill weer daar in verweggiestan.

    xx Matthijs

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  26. To Georgia Zervudachi Tango 6

    I hope it's all going well and that it's not too hot.
    I miss You very much.
    Love, Jamie.

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  27. To Georgi Tandy, echo 3
    Hi darling, hope the digging is going well.... there will be so many things you can help with when you get home. You are looking great in the photos, but very skinny!! You haven't said if you've been ill at all, but maybe it's all the hard work! It's a week till you're home, but you have the run before that, what fun.I think we are all coming to the airport to meet you..in my car. James has had his interview and been successful, so he is sooo relieved! There is no news really,but you do have a new 2nd cousin, Toby. Can't wait to see you. All my love Mum. J says Hi! xxx

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  28. Bryony Wilde, Tango 5, from Ruth29 March 2011 at 14:25

    Hi Bryony,
    By the time you get this you'll have finished the trek. I think you're probably on the final and most difficult stage now, as I write!!!!It all looks amazing !!!!!You seem to have been away for ages!!! Enjoy the next few weeks, wherever you go!!! Have fun,stay safe...and we'll catch up when you get back. Lots of love, Ruth xxxxxx

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  29. Nancy Richardson29 March 2011 at 16:03

    To Andrew Richardson Tango 6

    Hi Andrew
    Great to read your latest blog. Hope the stomach has settled down now and you can enjoy the rest of the trek . Biking and rafting - wow, lucky you! Hope you've got lots of pictures. Everyone else is well here and so looking forward to your return. Will has a new baby - another boy! Have a wonderful time in your last week.

    So proud of you and sending you lots of love from us all.
    Mum

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  30. Hi flo echo 4
    Happy birthday
    Wat een bijzonder moment, je bent jarig echter ver weg van ons , en al is het hier nog 29 maart voor jou is het al de 30 e dus ben je een jaar ouder.
    Je tweelingbroer in borneo en wij thuis in Heemstede
    We missen je wel en zien uit naar je thuiskomst zijn de dagen aan het aftellen.
    Hoop dat je toch een leuke dag hebt en je wat beter voelt
    Papa en mama

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  31. Sian Hilton - Charlie 2

    Hey hey! Cannot believe your home in about a week.. gone so quick! Pictures look good, all this grafting, your gonna be a machine! All is well here, plenty of goss but no doubt stevie will get there first.. (Hi Stevie!) Got another new job ha, tell u more when your back. Take care and, well, ill see you soon!

    Nick x

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  32. To: Georgia Zervudachi, Tango 6

    Wow Georgia: am so impressed with your trekking exploits. It sounds really quite special. I am looking forward very much to hearing about it all in detail on your return.
    I am going skiing with Didier Cuche on Friday: so I shall let you know how that went when you are next in touch.
    I like the idea of you going up the mountains singing to keep all the spirits up.
    With all our Love,

    Dad
    XXX

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  33. To Florine, echo 4

    He lieve flo,
    GEFELICITEEEEEEEEERDD!!!!
    Hoe is het met je? Heb je het nog steeds zo naar je zin?
    Hier is inmiddels goudkoorts losgebarsten.Het begon zondag met fruhshoppen waar maar liefst 2 van mijn en 2 van jouw clubgenootjes aanwezig waren. Schrale opkomst dus haha. Maar goed wel een goed excuus op te zuipen en donuts en soesjes als ontbijt te eten. Maandag hadden we met de club meegedaan aan de rally en dat was echt hilarisch. We kwamen overal te laat aan, hebben de lunch en de finish gemist en zijn wel honderd keer verkeerd gereden. Maar het was wel echt geweldig!! En gister was vinzzent op lauri haha hij heeft wel drie keer de dromendans gezongen wat een baas!!
    Ik hoop dat jij het ook nog steeds heel fijn hebt en dat de laatste loodjes meevallen.
    Heel veel plezier nog.
    Dikke kus
    Tanne

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  34. To Becky Barnes Charlie 2
    so good to hear news of you and see the photos - I love the one of you reading the letter (from Amy I think)! I bet you have enjoyed going into the school and I'm very impressed that you are doing plastering!
    I've loved Venice and got back late last night. Did all the main sights and mostly the weather was warm and sunny. Will pass your message on to Liz to give to Phoebe tomorrow and will also see Maria tomorrow so will ask her to give your message to Gina.
    Will soon be able to talk to you!
    sending loads of love
    Mum xxxxxxxxxxx

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  35. Hello Alice Corby from a a very over cast southampton, B & L came to greet me as I got home and are now out to play. I have been for a walk at Copythorne nursery and yes I bought some plants for the plot/garden, yes well, I have been good up until now , I am sure you will keep me in check when you are back . I have just spoken to Barrie, re train travel...this is what he suggests if you have access to the internet look up www.seat61.com/india it shows you all the info get and AC2 although I did read AC3 is ok! but you do need to book, you can also look at www,indiarail.in no good just turning up for a long journey anyway, just noticed we could have booked this end, anyway I am sure you will be returning to field base any day now and have mixed feelings about leaving new friends and the start of yet another adventure. I hope this helps Lots of love from Greenways Mum XX

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  36. Panos Vostanis2 April 2011 at 00:08

    Alexander Vostanis - Tango 6
    Panathinaikos knocked Barcelona out of the basketball champions league, and playing in the final four! The atmosphere for the cricket final must be fantastic, I hope you watch it and India win. Going to Athens next week to see γιαγια for a few days. Enjoy the next part of the trip. xxx dad

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  37. To Scott Rae (Echo3)

    Hi Scott
    Less than a week to go now! Bet you're looking forward to some good old home cooking! Spent a lovely day in Lanark yesterday with your mum, Jen and Jamie. He is so cute - full of smiles and gurgles! You'll see a huge difference in him when you get back.

    If you're running in the 10k race on Tuesday, good luck with it. Hope it's not too unbearably hot. I'll be amazed if this message gets to you as I've not been very successful at all at posting comments. So here goes! I'll keep my fingers crossed that you get it. Speak to you soon. Love, Pam.

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  38. To Becky Barnes Charlie 2
    This is to send lot of love from Carol and Mel (Judge), Carol and Amy, Maria and me!! We had a great evening last night playing Cranium Wow and we were going to write this last night but the silly internet wouldn't work!! All loved to see the photos of you and can't wait to see you in person. We had a lot of laughs playing Cranium as you can imagine! We will have a return match of with you and Gina soon! It's Mothering Sunday tomorrow so I'll be opening your card and Carol brought me flowers which was a lovely thought.

    Liz has sent a message to Phoebe to say you plan to come on 27th and will be in touch after 6th. Maria texted Gina last night to say you will be in Bangalore on 6th and will be in touch then.

    When I see the pictures of all the things you build etc I think it's really amazing what you all do. What a fantastic crowd you are!

    Anyway here's sending lots of love from me and from all your fans who were here last night!
    Mum xxxxxxxxxxx

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