So here we are, already few days into the third and final phase. Raleigh life seems to have a clock all of its own and I’m pretty sure it goes a lot quicker than all other time pieces. The temperatures are still rising and we’re up to about 37degrees now which means the sweat levels for everyone have reached new heights along with the need to seek shade at any opportunity.
Once the tribal party was over, it was time to jump in the car and head down into Kerala to meet the Tango 6 gang at their camp for dinner. The camp was at the bottom of the Amba peak which they would be scaling the next day so they’d had plenty of time to check out the heights they were about to conquer. Lottie and Lucy cooked the group diner of soya balls and rice which I’m sure tasted better than it sounds! The next morning Georgia Z was on porridge duty which also involves the tricky task of waking up the whole team but she did it in the best possible way, by singing a song. We've spoke to them the next night and the whole team made it to the top of the peak which is fantastic.
The latest field base gossip is that Betty the calf and Eddie the egret Edwards seem to have had a bit of a spat as Eddie has been seen hanging out with Gareth the goat. I think Betty is taking it pretty hard as when I woke up yesterday morning the first thing I saw was her trying to get in to our dorm. She must have been after a shoulder to cry on, poor thing. However I was too busy chasing Harry the toad out of the shower to have time to chat.
We’re off to see two more of the teams today, so we’ll be stopping in at BD Munti to see how the toilet building is going at Charlie 2 and then dropping into the trenches to hang out with Echo 4 so we’ll being you news of them very soon. If we manage to climb out of the trench that is...
And a huge thanks again to everyone that has sponsored us for the 10k run, which is getting more and more daunting as the temperatures rise and the start time gets earlier and earlier. We’ve raised over a thousand pounds now which is incredible and everyone is so happy. So thanks, it’s really fantastic to know that you’re all supporting that work that we’re doing out here.
Anyway, enough about our sweat problems, I’ll quickly move onto the news you really want to hear which is how much everyone else is sweating... No? Ok then, well instead why don’t I update you on how Charlie 1 and Tango 6 are getting on as Naomi, our field base medic for this phase, headed out on the first loop to catch up with them.
First stop was the tropical Vellary to see Charlie 1 who are building the bio-gas units and a tribal village house. Once they’d finished the day’s work digging the mammoth hole to house the biogas dome, they headed off to a local tribal festival where there was all sorts of fun and games taking place.
It was tricky to get everyone in the same spot this time so it we weren't able to get a group photo I’m afraid but we’ll be back out to see them soon when we’ll get more photos, promise. They’re all well though and loving living with the community and getting to know the family that they’re building the unit for. They’re being spoilt with food as the family cooks for them all every day and they’re enjoying the feeling of being in a popular shampoo advert by washing in the local river every day.
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| The group at the festival. |
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| James and Laura spot something else happening over to the right - unfortunately we never found out what this was... |
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| Sheena, Anne-Romee, Louisa, Thatte, Kate, Holly and Jess look on. |
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| Festival dancing. |
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| Genevieve with her new friend. |
Once the tribal party was over, it was time to jump in the car and head down into Kerala to meet the Tango 6 gang at their camp for dinner. The camp was at the bottom of the Amba peak which they would be scaling the next day so they’d had plenty of time to check out the heights they were about to conquer. Lottie and Lucy cooked the group diner of soya balls and rice which I’m sure tasted better than it sounds! The next morning Georgia Z was on porridge duty which also involves the tricky task of waking up the whole team but she did it in the best possible way, by singing a song. We've spoke to them the next night and the whole team made it to the top of the peak which is fantastic.
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| Lottie, Eeva and Lucy cook up a trangia treat. |
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| Philip keeps the fire going to keep elephants at bay, although I reckon that lunghi would have done the trick... |
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| Catherine getting ready to set off |
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| The group getting ready to leave camp at the bottom of the Amba peak which they were climbing that day. |
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| Tango 6 about to walk up Amba. Back Row L-R - Andy, Georgia, Catherine, Georgia, Lottie, Lucy, Rachel, Danielle, Becca (PM), Ben, Eleri (PM, )Karen, Eeva (PM) Front row L-R - Philip, Alex, James, Johnson (guide), Nikil (guide), Louis. |
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| The group setting off up to the top of Amba - well done guys. |
The latest field base gossip is that Betty the calf and Eddie the egret Edwards seem to have had a bit of a spat as Eddie has been seen hanging out with Gareth the goat. I think Betty is taking it pretty hard as when I woke up yesterday morning the first thing I saw was her trying to get in to our dorm. She must have been after a shoulder to cry on, poor thing. However I was too busy chasing Harry the toad out of the shower to have time to chat.
We’re off to see two more of the teams today, so we’ll be stopping in at BD Munti to see how the toilet building is going at Charlie 2 and then dropping into the trenches to hang out with Echo 4 so we’ll being you news of them very soon. If we manage to climb out of the trench that is...
And a huge thanks again to everyone that has sponsored us for the 10k run, which is getting more and more daunting as the temperatures rise and the start time gets earlier and earlier. We’ve raised over a thousand pounds now which is incredible and everyone is so happy. So thanks, it’s really fantastic to know that you’re all supporting that work that we’re doing out here.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/raleighindia11a
Here are all the messages from the folks to you back home...
From Georgia Zervudachi
To Sarah and Jonathan
Thank you so much for your letter – it really made me smile to think of life at Hairlish. Finished all of suitable boy in the first three weeks when ill, it was fantastic. Tonnes of love x x x
From Georgia Zervudachi
To Jamie
I got 2 letters! Definitely made me smile lots! And Kafka – I’d just finished my last book! Have fun being funky! I’ll reply properly soon – I have to go trek now, but I am doing so with big smiles. Love Georgia
From Louisa Mohsen
To Chiara
Can’t believe you’ve only JUST written me a blog message, so slack! I received your letter, so lovely on that Cath Kidson paper, made me feel very special ha ha. Good present, you need to give me your address in Madrid mate! Can’t believe you’re going, I am DEFINITELY visiting don’t you worry! Call about Bristol by the way, shame I wasn’t there to exchange your and Lucy’s life stories ha. Miss you lots and good luck in Madrid, you’ll make a really good nanny! X x x
From Louisa Mohsen
TO Lucy and Rachel
Thanks for your messages my loves! Hope you are both well. Tomorrow I leave for my last phase so not too long until I see your faces! Lucy – Bristol sounds fab but that was mean to describe the café’s food when the only option I see here is curry! Oh and the milkshake part was in your words ‘ the cherry on the icing on the cake’!! I’m glad you were thinking of me though. Rachel, you are such a doughnut (nom!) I would have suggested asking Lucy for my address but it’s too late to send post to me now. Write me a massive email of pure golden gossip instead! Attach some photos banter too… hilair! I’ll see you in a few weeks hopefully. MISS YOU BOTH, KEEP WRITING! Xxx PS lost 3 kilos yes! Hahaha.
Here are all the messages from the folks to you back home...
From Genevieve McAreavey
To John McAreavey
Happy Birthday Daddy! I love you so much and hope you have a great day! Let me know what you get up tp. Big kiss and hugs, love Genevieve x x x x x
Happy Birthday Daddy! I love you so much and hope you have a great day! Let me know what you get up tp. Big kiss and hugs, love Genevieve x x x x x
From Jonathan Williams
To Friends and Family
Hi everyone, thanks for the messages! I’m having an absolutely amazing time out here – seen some quality places, met loads of lovely people. Did my last few days of the community project which consisted of weddings, cricket mayhem and building the village toilets – pretty fun. Hope everything is going well at home with everyone and missing you all!
To Friends and Family
Hi everyone, thanks for the messages! I’m having an absolutely amazing time out here – seen some quality places, met loads of lovely people. Did my last few days of the community project which consisted of weddings, cricket mayhem and building the village toilets – pretty fun. Hope everything is going well at home with everyone and missing you all!
Love Jonny x x x
PS I think I may be extending my stay by 2-3 weeks to visit Goa, Mumbai and Hampi so for those of you desperate to see me - sorry!
PS I think I may be extending my stay by 2-3 weeks to visit Goa, Mumbai and Hampi so for those of you desperate to see me - sorry!
From Georgi Tandy
Hey Mum, I can’t remember what I said in the last blog message. Wart’s gone again? Crazy dog...! I got your letters, the galaxy was amazing, thank you! I sent another letter so hopefully it will be there soon. The trip to London for James sounds good, he can decide everything , it’ll be cool. I would love to go away again when i get back, it’s hard work here, not a holiday! Somewhere warm? Does James want to come or not? Not long til I’m back home now yey! Am craving normality a bit. That and fish and chips! Can’t wait for our chance to do some shopping, I’ve not got a lot of Indian stuff yet except a sari which is really pretty. I’m going to bring back loads though. The house will be filled with India by April!
See you soon
Georgi x x x x x x
From Kieran Armour
To Sue A and Jan B
Hi everyone, I’m having a great time! We built 15 toilets. How is everyone at home, ok I hope. I’m now on to a trekking phase. Tell everyone I said Hi, miss you all.
Love Kieran
PS – tell mum I want a Sunday roast when I get back cos I’m sick of curry.
From Lisa Akyol
To Ma and Pa and everyone else who’s reading
Bonjour mes amis! How are you all? Hope all is ticking along nicely at home. The time flew at the community phase and we got the 15 toilets completed and I did a class at the school. We had a birthday celebration the other day and got dressed up in tribal gear which was pretty snazzy.
love and miss you all
Lisa x x x
Hey Mum, I can’t remember what I said in the last blog message. Wart’s gone again? Crazy dog...! I got your letters, the galaxy was amazing, thank you! I sent another letter so hopefully it will be there soon. The trip to London for James sounds good, he can decide everything , it’ll be cool. I would love to go away again when i get back, it’s hard work here, not a holiday! Somewhere warm? Does James want to come or not? Not long til I’m back home now yey! Am craving normality a bit. That and fish and chips! Can’t wait for our chance to do some shopping, I’ve not got a lot of Indian stuff yet except a sari which is really pretty. I’m going to bring back loads though. The house will be filled with India by April!
See you soon
Georgi x x x x x x
From Kieran Armour
To Sue A and Jan B
Hi everyone, I’m having a great time! We built 15 toilets. How is everyone at home, ok I hope. I’m now on to a trekking phase. Tell everyone I said Hi, miss you all.
Love Kieran
PS – tell mum I want a Sunday roast when I get back cos I’m sick of curry.
From Lisa Akyol
To Ma and Pa and everyone else who’s reading
Bonjour mes amis! How are you all? Hope all is ticking along nicely at home. The time flew at the community phase and we got the 15 toilets completed and I did a class at the school. We had a birthday celebration the other day and got dressed up in tribal gear which was pretty snazzy.
love and miss you all
Lisa x x x
PS – Paula, I proper live your message – I almost wet myself at that martin comment!
PPS – Colin!
PPS – Colin!
From Bryony Wilde
To friends and family
Hello all! Having an amazing time and time has flown, on to trek now eek! Last phase we built 15 loos, good going! Literally am fit for a building site now, career sorted! Thanks for all the messages everyone, so nice to hear! Liv – how’s was eggheads?!? That’s amazing! Will email you the generic message soon. What’s happening with the holiday sitch? All booked? Bangers on hour! Make sure you make yourself known when you write to me on here as I’ve spent days trying to work out who the anonymous messages are from!! Hope everything is brill with everyone! Loads of sunshine and love for all! X x x x
To friends and family
Hello all! Having an amazing time and time has flown, on to trek now eek! Last phase we built 15 loos, good going! Literally am fit for a building site now, career sorted! Thanks for all the messages everyone, so nice to hear! Liv – how’s was eggheads?!? That’s amazing! Will email you the generic message soon. What’s happening with the holiday sitch? All booked? Bangers on hour! Make sure you make yourself known when you write to me on here as I’ve spent days trying to work out who the anonymous messages are from!! Hope everything is brill with everyone! Loads of sunshine and love for all! X x x x
PS – Brother, you better write to me you slacker x News please! X
From James Bell
To Mum, Dad and Rachel
Hey everyone, we’re all having a really good time and I managed to catch some of the cricket here and the results which is good! Have decided to travel on to see more of India for about 2 weeks or so but not sure of details yet. I am thinking about you all and miss you all lots, love James x x x
From Ellie Burton
To Mum Burton, tom Smith
Hello Hello! Hope you are keeping well and that all is good in sleepyshire. Has there been any snow back home yet? It’s getting hotter here by the day as we laid bricks and plastered 8 hours a day in the last phase (something new for the CV) but thankfully there was another reservoir to cool off in and can wash any dirt/tan off! Thinking of you x x x x
From Ellie Burton
To Toby, Mai and friends
Hey guys! Hope job searching/working/studying is being ok?! I hear India is the happening place right now so get inoculated and come and see me? Also I’m planning on travelling for a bit after Raleigh now. Missing you all (naww) send me mail! xxxx
From James Bell
To Mum, Dad and Rachel
Hey everyone, we’re all having a really good time and I managed to catch some of the cricket here and the results which is good! Have decided to travel on to see more of India for about 2 weeks or so but not sure of details yet. I am thinking about you all and miss you all lots, love James x x x
From Ellie Burton
To Mum Burton, tom Smith
Hello Hello! Hope you are keeping well and that all is good in sleepyshire. Has there been any snow back home yet? It’s getting hotter here by the day as we laid bricks and plastered 8 hours a day in the last phase (something new for the CV) but thankfully there was another reservoir to cool off in and can wash any dirt/tan off! Thinking of you x x x x
From Ellie Burton
To Toby, Mai and friends
Hey guys! Hope job searching/working/studying is being ok?! I hear India is the happening place right now so get inoculated and come and see me? Also I’m planning on travelling for a bit after Raleigh now. Missing you all (naww) send me mail! xxxx
From Andy Jehring
To Mum, Dad and anyone else
To Mum, Dad and anyone else
Having a very good time out hear and please as I managed to Get ‘D’ recently. In the last phase we went to teach some kids English before picking up by tailored shirt. Starting to feel like it’s all going too fast here now. As much as I want to see everyone I am strongly considering staying on for 10 days travelling afterwards. Right, better go. Speak soon
Andy x
From Andy Jehring
To Dad, Gamie, Grandpa, Rich
Finally had time to work out that the date is and realised I missed your birthday! Glad to see Dad is continuing to cause himself pain on the Spring challenge rather than celebrating his birthday. Gamie and Grandpa - Happy 80th! Sorry I couldn’t make it and you had to put up with the rest of the family, I hope you’ll forgive me. Rich I can’t believe you’re 21, you look awful for your age! I’ve received the 2nd parcel, the sweets went down instantly and were appreciated by all the sports paper is also very popular. My body is aching thanks to the Spaldings getting me that horrible book which has inflicted pain on a few unlucky members of the group. Very excited for a 3rd parcel now, I will be crushed if it is anything less than amazing.
Love from Andy
From Mona Shah
To Catherine Playfair
Hi Catherine, I hear your name being echoed as I walked around our beautiful BD Munti and the kids all ask after you. Thank you for your lovely note and hope you are feeling better and making great plans for the future. Take care and sending you the biggest hug ever
Mona x x x
From Alice Corby
To Mum Corby
Hi, don’t know whether you have my letter yet? How are things at home? How’s B and C? What’s Jack’s and Dad’s address? I didn’t bring address which was silly. It’s hot here. Keep writing to me, its nice hearing from someone. I liked the letter a lit, Miss you, give B and L a big kiss from me, Alice x x x
PS - please send me a parcel of goodies
From Alex Vostanis
To Vostanis family and friends and Emily
Hi! I had such a good birthday, the last group bought a big cake and we had a tribal dress costume party in the evening which was really fun! Miss a lit of you and would be great to speak to you soon. Glad to hear about kiman’s GF, not so glad about Phyllida’s, I’ll meet him when I’m back. Hope everyone is happy and well and that A-levels aren’t stressing Phyllida and Emily out. I’m still loving India but obviously miss home every now and again and especially the Premiership being so good for Arsenal! Speak soon, love to everyone Ganga, Vozzy, Big Al, Alexandros
To Dad, Gamie, Grandpa, Rich
Finally had time to work out that the date is and realised I missed your birthday! Glad to see Dad is continuing to cause himself pain on the Spring challenge rather than celebrating his birthday. Gamie and Grandpa - Happy 80th! Sorry I couldn’t make it and you had to put up with the rest of the family, I hope you’ll forgive me. Rich I can’t believe you’re 21, you look awful for your age! I’ve received the 2nd parcel, the sweets went down instantly and were appreciated by all the sports paper is also very popular. My body is aching thanks to the Spaldings getting me that horrible book which has inflicted pain on a few unlucky members of the group. Very excited for a 3rd parcel now, I will be crushed if it is anything less than amazing.
Love from Andy
From Mona Shah
To Catherine Playfair
Hi Catherine, I hear your name being echoed as I walked around our beautiful BD Munti and the kids all ask after you. Thank you for your lovely note and hope you are feeling better and making great plans for the future. Take care and sending you the biggest hug ever
Mona x x x
From Alice Corby
To Mum Corby
Hi, don’t know whether you have my letter yet? How are things at home? How’s B and C? What’s Jack’s and Dad’s address? I didn’t bring address which was silly. It’s hot here. Keep writing to me, its nice hearing from someone. I liked the letter a lit, Miss you, give B and L a big kiss from me, Alice x x x
PS - please send me a parcel of goodies
From Alex Vostanis
To Vostanis family and friends and Emily
Hi! I had such a good birthday, the last group bought a big cake and we had a tribal dress costume party in the evening which was really fun! Miss a lit of you and would be great to speak to you soon. Glad to hear about kiman’s GF, not so glad about Phyllida’s, I’ll meet him when I’m back. Hope everyone is happy and well and that A-levels aren’t stressing Phyllida and Emily out. I’m still loving India but obviously miss home every now and again and especially the Premiership being so good for Arsenal! Speak soon, love to everyone Ganga, Vozzy, Big Al, Alexandros
From Georgia Zervudachi
To Mum and Dad
I got your letter and burst into tears YAY! I’m glad you are all well, have funa t England V Scotland, we’re getting all the scores brought out on the loop! V excited. Tonnes of love to you all x x x
PS – who writes letters inside envelopes?
PPS I found religion and a husband... he he
To Mum and Dad
I got your letter and burst into tears YAY! I’m glad you are all well, have funa t England V Scotland, we’re getting all the scores brought out on the loop! V excited. Tonnes of love to you all x x x
PS – who writes letters inside envelopes?
PPS I found religion and a husband... he he
From Georgia Zervudachi
To Sarah and Jonathan
Thank you so much for your letter – it really made me smile to think of life at Hairlish. Finished all of suitable boy in the first three weeks when ill, it was fantastic. Tonnes of love x x x
From Georgia Zervudachi
To Jamie
I got 2 letters! Definitely made me smile lots! And Kafka – I’d just finished my last book! Have fun being funky! I’ll reply properly soon – I have to go trek now, but I am doing so with big smiles. Love Georgia
From Becky Barnes
To Family and friends.
Hello! I hope you are all very well and I will be online and able to catch up with you properly in 3 weeks. Thanks Monica, Mum, Pat, Roz and Ben for your letters. I am pleased I survived trek and can’t wait to tell you about it! Onto Community now – what a fab way to finish. I am in good spirits and health.
Speak soon! Lots of love, Becky xxx
From Becky Barnes
To Amy Grace Fellowes
Thank you so much for your blog message darling girl. I cannot wait to see you and love the amount you squeezed in! I am so proud of you and Smoo, well done! I think about you always and it’s hard to not be in touch but I can get online from 6th April and see you 30th April! Love you so much xxx.
To Amy Grace Fellowes
Thank you so much for your blog message darling girl. I cannot wait to see you and love the amount you squeezed in! I am so proud of you and Smoo, well done! I think about you always and it’s hard to not be in touch but I can get online from 6th April and see you 30th April! Love you so much xxx.
From Robert Nolan
To Peter and Vicki Nolan
Hello! Having a great time; visited field base after finishing an amazing community project! I won’t explain what I’ve done as I haven’t the time, the space or the energy. I can tell you all the details when I get back. Off to work on environmental project and looking forward to building bashers and tents with bamboo. Is it possible in your next blog message to tell me Kathryn’s address in Tanzania? Obviously I need this in the next week. Hope you had fun in Canada, Love Rob
From Scott Rae
To Marjorie Rae
Visited field base and just had changeover. Trek was amazing - I’ve just sent another letter with all the details. The environmental phase is next and I’m really excited. Hope you’re both enjoying your hols. Won’t be long until I’m back (please have lots of Heat ready for my return – I’m craving it!). Happy Mother’s Day in advance! Scott xx
From Scott Rae
To Jamie Boyd
Hello little one! So nice to receive a blog message from a 6 month old. You’re developing at some speed! I can’t believe you have a tooth – that’s so exciting! I’ve just done trekking and now I’m on environmental. Won’t be long until I visit you – can’t wait! Keep eating your solids and wish Mummy a Happy Mother’s Day! Uncle Scott xx
From Andrew Richardson
To All
Now I’m in my 7th weeks out here and I am tanning fast and powering hard. Finished the elephant trenches and got used to the 6 am wake up and midday naps. Also found some time to teach English to the kids (unfortunately this natural talent does not run in the blood). I’m trekking now J. The lakes will feel easy next trip. Then I will be back within 4 weeks. Looking forward to seeing you all!
From Katy Star
To Abibob
Bob! Thanks for the blogs! Was so lovely to receive two after having none from any of you guys, but I understand all the same we are all the same: disorganized forgetful. In fact have the other Bobs noticed I’m gone?! Have just completed an epic trek… was everything I thought it would be and more. It will haunt my dreams for the rest of my life. But now it’s over, done, finto. Off to build some eco-snitation units now, aka compost bogs! Can’t believe hoq quickly time has flown by… Am gonne be back in 6ish weeks, mental! Hope you had the most awesome time in Sri-Lanka, are keeping upbeat and looking forward to the summer – flowers are blooing (apparently!), the birds are singing (both here and there) and life is full of dreams and love and whatever you want it to be J Keep smiling mate, eating jelly and being ridiculous! Love you loads x x x x x
PS get the other bobs to blog me!
PS get the other bobs to blog me!
From Katy Star
To Janio Moo
Braaaaain! Thnx for the blog, about bleddy time! Am going to plan our trip of joy – will involve sun, jelly and curry! EXCITEDS! Love you moo xxx Yes!
PS Are we there yet?
To Janio Moo
Braaaaain! Thnx for the blog, about bleddy time! Am going to plan our trip of joy – will involve sun, jelly and curry! EXCITEDS! Love you moo xxx Yes!
PS Are we there yet?
From Katy Star
To Aunty Sue
To Aunty Sue
Thank you so much for the blog message, kept me powering on through trek which is over now thank goodness! Off to build toilets now and play with millions of small Indian children hurrah! Have sent a postcard so you’ll probably receive it in about 4 years! Hope all is good ala Brids, and the spring bulbs are blooming beautifully! Loads of love, Katy x x x
From Katy Star
To Dommer
Dommer! Home in 6 weeks! (Prob) Hope I have a semi-tan by then, as am just dirty at the mo! Keep practicing cooking for me! Love you loads xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Jelly
From Katy Star
To Mothership
Happy Mother’s day! For last Sunday? or this Sunday? Where am I?!.... Anyway, I love you loads! Xxxxx
PS Coach holiday this summer?!
From Katy Star
To Old bloke
Ate 8 (!) crème eggs in 3 days!! Best parcel ever, thanks Daddio! Sadly you can’t send any more after now as may not receive it L off to build some toilets now – how is your plot loo?! Hot looks,,, very unique! Am building up muscles for the grand design! Love you loads xxx
PS Jebs smells
To Dommer
Dommer! Home in 6 weeks! (Prob) Hope I have a semi-tan by then, as am just dirty at the mo! Keep practicing cooking for me! Love you loads xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Jelly
From Katy Star
To Mothership
Happy Mother’s day! For last Sunday? or this Sunday? Where am I?!.... Anyway, I love you loads! Xxxxx
PS Coach holiday this summer?!
From Katy Star
To Old bloke
Ate 8 (!) crème eggs in 3 days!! Best parcel ever, thanks Daddio! Sadly you can’t send any more after now as may not receive it L off to build some toilets now – how is your plot loo?! Hot looks,,, very unique! Am building up muscles for the grand design! Love you loads xxx
PS Jebs smells
From Sarah Churlish
To John Churlish
Hey broseph, brilliant to hear from you. I’m missing your ugly little face but it’s ok because there’s loads of really ugly toads here so I can just pretend they’re you. Yeah I’m working on the white tights issue., my arms are pretty brown, not normal brown but just brown for me. Let me know how the capturing goes ha ha I can just image you two running around in the dark with rope, bin bags and kitchen knives haha. But yeah, go easy on him, no loud noises. Wow a choreographed barber shop – you are just too cool, make sure you get a video. How come it’s in the DSU? You may be cook but you’re not that cool. I’ll get Rochie to bring his mates and abuse your little dance haha. Missing you loads, hope home is cool, lots of love ‘Stuart the cowagous one’ x x x x
From Sarah Churlish
To Bex
It’s so good to hear from you! Yeah the blog messages are really nice to get. Yeah the work is hard but really rewarding, like I actually knew the family we were building the biogas unit for. They cooked our meals every day, we lived on their doorstep and we played with the kids every day. I’m back at field base at the moment for changeover and I’m heading off to the environmental phase next so digging elephant trenches for 18 days. And YES!! I’d come to Vietnam and the rest of Asia – I’m broke but we’ll work it out ha ha! Your travels sound amazing, wish I could have done it with you. I reckon you’d love it here, except all the Raleigh rules ha ah. So when will you be back in the UK, mid April? Will I get to see you at all before you disappear again? Also as if you’ve named your itinerary!!! Oh Bex I miss you! Wishing you were here too. Trying to plan my trip after and I need your organisation! I’ll try and blog back soon, love you x x x x x
PS keep having an awesome time and have 5 beers for me ha ha!
Hey broseph, brilliant to hear from you. I’m missing your ugly little face but it’s ok because there’s loads of really ugly toads here so I can just pretend they’re you. Yeah I’m working on the white tights issue., my arms are pretty brown, not normal brown but just brown for me. Let me know how the capturing goes ha ha I can just image you two running around in the dark with rope, bin bags and kitchen knives haha. But yeah, go easy on him, no loud noises. Wow a choreographed barber shop – you are just too cool, make sure you get a video. How come it’s in the DSU? You may be cook but you’re not that cool. I’ll get Rochie to bring his mates and abuse your little dance haha. Missing you loads, hope home is cool, lots of love ‘Stuart the cowagous one’ x x x x
From Sarah Churlish
To Bex
It’s so good to hear from you! Yeah the blog messages are really nice to get. Yeah the work is hard but really rewarding, like I actually knew the family we were building the biogas unit for. They cooked our meals every day, we lived on their doorstep and we played with the kids every day. I’m back at field base at the moment for changeover and I’m heading off to the environmental phase next so digging elephant trenches for 18 days. And YES!! I’d come to Vietnam and the rest of Asia – I’m broke but we’ll work it out ha ha! Your travels sound amazing, wish I could have done it with you. I reckon you’d love it here, except all the Raleigh rules ha ah. So when will you be back in the UK, mid April? Will I get to see you at all before you disappear again? Also as if you’ve named your itinerary!!! Oh Bex I miss you! Wishing you were here too. Trying to plan my trip after and I need your organisation! I’ll try and blog back soon, love you x x x x x
PS keep having an awesome time and have 5 beers for me ha ha!
From Sarah Churlish
To Mum and Dad
To Mum and Dad
It’s goot to hear what you’ve been up to at home. I can’t even imagine snow at the moment – it’s baking hot here and getting hotter, not actually burnt yet but I’m developing the t-shirt tan nicely! Charlie 1 was really good. It was amazing to be so close to the people we were building the houses and biogas units for. It makes it so real and even more rewarding. Off to Echo 4 now so I’ll be digging elephant trenches and putting solar fencing up so hopefully I’ll spot an elephant. Yeah it’s a shame about the tigers but they’re notoriously hard to spot in the south so we didn’t expect much really. There was a sign inside the bus saying ‘Animal sightings are purely luck’ so there we go. The food was amazing in the community but now it’s back to trekking food so rice bags and noodles… yum! Looking forward to the fry-ups! Speak to you all soon x x x x
From Sarah Churlish
To Laura Botteley
Hey, not sure if you still check this but thanks for my card/letter/essay ha ha, it’s brilliant to hear from you!! I’ll write one back so you’ll get it eventually. Good luck with the job hunt, don’t lose faith. Missing you, lots of love, Sarah x x x
From Elliott Leishman
To Mum and Dad
From Sarah Churlish
To Laura Botteley
Hey, not sure if you still check this but thanks for my card/letter/essay ha ha, it’s brilliant to hear from you!! I’ll write one back so you’ll get it eventually. Good luck with the job hunt, don’t lose faith. Missing you, lots of love, Sarah x x x
From Elliott Leishman
To Mum and Dad
Hey, just got the package, thanks so much, will come in handy for trek. Thanks for the awesome letters mum you made me laugh lots and dad got me all emotional. Appreciating even more just how good parents you guys are, I’ll say happy mother’s day now to the best mum in the world, sorry to not get you a card or pressie but haven’t been able to, I will make sure I make it up to you when I get back. Dad, don’t worry about that picture of me looking sad, it was because I felt rubbish at that moment, I’ve been having a great time and will send another letter soon. Mum, could you do me a massive favour, it’s Andy’s birthday soon, could you please ring his mum or Kieran’s mum to pass on a happy birthday messageand that I miss him lots. Thanks and talk soon, Elliott.
From Binika Liu
Hey hunny, just got your message – (anders) ha ha, I miss yous all! Hope uz haven’t forgotten me?!? I’ve only got like 3 ½ weeks left so it’s flown by like I said. I’m loving every minute – the first part was fab – trekking and mountain biking for three weeks, your ideal holiday anders! Just been doing elephant trench digging and solar fences – was sooo hot – that’s how I’ve got my tan! LOL, don’t know if it’s going to last. Hope everyone is well and a get together is a must when I get back. Any goss I’ve missed out on then> I’e seen you got a job> What you doing then missy? Miss ya, Binika x x x x
PS – Your inspirational quotes have definitely come in handy! Missed home more than I thought, then I read Mel’s - if you notice this notice – say no to drugs, creased thinking about it! I’m sure you look lush as usual with your brunette hair now.
Hey hunny, just got your message – (anders) ha ha, I miss yous all! Hope uz haven’t forgotten me?!? I’ve only got like 3 ½ weeks left so it’s flown by like I said. I’m loving every minute – the first part was fab – trekking and mountain biking for three weeks, your ideal holiday anders! Just been doing elephant trench digging and solar fences – was sooo hot – that’s how I’ve got my tan! LOL, don’t know if it’s going to last. Hope everyone is well and a get together is a must when I get back. Any goss I’ve missed out on then> I’e seen you got a job> What you doing then missy? Miss ya, Binika x x x x
PS – Your inspirational quotes have definitely come in handy! Missed home more than I thought, then I read Mel’s - if you notice this notice – say no to drugs, creased thinking about it! I’m sure you look lush as usual with your brunette hair now.
From Clare Evans
To Penny Evans
Hey Mum! Received your message in the last phase, wish Grandad a very happy birthday from me! I can’t wait to see Molly again. I may have to come back earlier than planned due to financial reasons so I might come home and chill for a week after the 7th April. Really looking forward to trek even if it’s daunting! Send my love to everyone, especially the animals, Love Clare x x x
To Penny Evans
Hey Mum! Received your message in the last phase, wish Grandad a very happy birthday from me! I can’t wait to see Molly again. I may have to come back earlier than planned due to financial reasons so I might come home and chill for a week after the 7th April. Really looking forward to trek even if it’s daunting! Send my love to everyone, especially the animals, Love Clare x x x
From Danielle Sharpe
To Samijo Hewlett
Hey, that’s ok, I love getting any type of mail, post or blog messages, it’s such a good feeling! I got a lovely package from my sister with chocolate, crisps, mints and haribo – like a dream come true! I miss the simple things so much… running water, a fridge, being clean! I’m rocking a great dirt tan that rubs off every night!! Ha ha so I actually need a holiday after this! Plus I’ve been quite ill over the last week, I recovered and then came down with it again, not fun! I did get your letter and energy tables, thank you soo much! I have sent you another letter so hopefully you’ll get it soon. It’s weird knowing I’ve been away from home for so long and I do miss everyone a lot, but I’m home soon so we’ll have to arrange to so something – I think I said in my letter a night in with a takeaway, wine and photos! I hope everything is ok at home. I’m trekking for my final phase so I’ll be in need of a chill out and pamper once I’m hope ha ha book is in at the spa! I miss you lots and can’t wait to see you!! X x x
To Samijo Hewlett
Hey, that’s ok, I love getting any type of mail, post or blog messages, it’s such a good feeling! I got a lovely package from my sister with chocolate, crisps, mints and haribo – like a dream come true! I miss the simple things so much… running water, a fridge, being clean! I’m rocking a great dirt tan that rubs off every night!! Ha ha so I actually need a holiday after this! Plus I’ve been quite ill over the last week, I recovered and then came down with it again, not fun! I did get your letter and energy tables, thank you soo much! I have sent you another letter so hopefully you’ll get it soon. It’s weird knowing I’ve been away from home for so long and I do miss everyone a lot, but I’m home soon so we’ll have to arrange to so something – I think I said in my letter a night in with a takeaway, wine and photos! I hope everything is ok at home. I’m trekking for my final phase so I’ll be in need of a chill out and pamper once I’m hope ha ha book is in at the spa! I miss you lots and can’t wait to see you!! X x x
From Florine Boer
To Anke Vershoen
Hi anke, ik vill je alvast heel erg feliciteren met je verjoordag oonkomende zaterdag. Ik hoop dat je nag wat famille boer ontvangt op je verjaardag gezien de helft het land ult is. Ik kom snel een keer met een vriendinnetje of met mama in Vlissingen lugeren als het mag xxx Flo veel liefs ook aon piet natulrlijk
To Anke Vershoen
Hi anke, ik vill je alvast heel erg feliciteren met je verjoordag oonkomende zaterdag. Ik hoop dat je nag wat famille boer ontvangt op je verjaardag gezien de helft het land ult is. Ik kom snel een keer met een vriendinnetje of met mama in Vlissingen lugeren als het mag xxx Flo veel liefs ook aon piet natulrlijk
From Florine Boer
To Matthijs
Hi Lieve Matthijs
Je bent al opgemerkt alu ea opvallent voak aenwezige blogger door al mijn famille gewoon omdat je die blug niet begrijpt haha. Hoe is het doer op laurie? De trek is niet zo erg als ie dacht en red het prima zo het is ool zo super mooi hier ech genieten! liefs Flo xxx
To Matthijs
Hi Lieve Matthijs
Je bent al opgemerkt alu ea opvallent voak aenwezige blogger door al mijn famille gewoon omdat je die blug niet begrijpt haha. Hoe is het doer op laurie? De trek is niet zo erg als ie dacht en red het prima zo het is ool zo super mooi hier ech genieten! liefs Flo xxx
From Louisa Mohsen
To Chiara
Can’t believe you’ve only JUST written me a blog message, so slack! I received your letter, so lovely on that Cath Kidson paper, made me feel very special ha ha. Good present, you need to give me your address in Madrid mate! Can’t believe you’re going, I am DEFINITELY visiting don’t you worry! Call about Bristol by the way, shame I wasn’t there to exchange your and Lucy’s life stories ha. Miss you lots and good luck in Madrid, you’ll make a really good nanny! X x x
From Louisa Mohsen
TO Lucy and Rachel
Thanks for your messages my loves! Hope you are both well. Tomorrow I leave for my last phase so not too long until I see your faces! Lucy – Bristol sounds fab but that was mean to describe the café’s food when the only option I see here is curry! Oh and the milkshake part was in your words ‘ the cherry on the icing on the cake’!! I’m glad you were thinking of me though. Rachel, you are such a doughnut (nom!) I would have suggested asking Lucy for my address but it’s too late to send post to me now. Write me a massive email of pure golden gossip instead! Attach some photos banter too… hilair! I’ll see you in a few weeks hopefully. MISS YOU BOTH, KEEP WRITING! Xxx PS lost 3 kilos yes! Hahaha.
From Louisa Mohsen
To Vincent
Thanks for your message, trekking was challenging but I’m so glad I did it. I’m embarking on a new adventure tomorrow, I’m going to be working with some tribal families and building them a toilet, I’m on my last phase already, it’s all gone so quickly! Hope wedding prep is going well, love to you all! X xx
To Vincent
Thanks for your message, trekking was challenging but I’m so glad I did it. I’m embarking on a new adventure tomorrow, I’m going to be working with some tribal families and building them a toilet, I’m on my last phase already, it’s all gone so quickly! Hope wedding prep is going well, love to you all! X xx
From Louisa Mohsen
To Aunty Geraldine
To Aunty Geraldine
I received your letter yesterday and it made my day! Not to worry, I have recovered from being ill and feel like my energy has been renewed after trekking!! Yes, LOVED dressing in the sari on Echo, surreal experience! They kept trying to put bracelets on us too but most of our wrists are too big! They’re so petite here. I leave for my community phase tomorrow so will write back to you then and fill you in on my experience of trek (nothing like I expected!) and community. I’m in the middle of reading Robby’s ‘The Killer inside me’ at the moment. Hope Ales gives you a great mother’s day, talk soon x x x
From Louisa Mohsen
To Mum
Thanks for your regular blogs and the package! I sent you a card and a very long letter today, I was in a massive rush so please excuse the mess! I tried to cram in as much as possible. I will write again when I settle in on my next phase. I couldn’t send my mother’s day present to you from field base so ignore what I said in the card/letter. I can hopefully send it on my next phase. I’m happy you miss my cooking... I miss my cooking too! I’m excited for my next phase, have great PMs and looking forward to meeting the tribal families and eating their food. I recommend you read the book ‘White tiger@ if you want to know what life is like here, it’s a very popular read. Wish Nan a happy birthday from me and that I’ll be thinking of her. Miss you lots too, not long now! X x x
Ps – hope the coffee morning went well!
To Mum
Thanks for your regular blogs and the package! I sent you a card and a very long letter today, I was in a massive rush so please excuse the mess! I tried to cram in as much as possible. I will write again when I settle in on my next phase. I couldn’t send my mother’s day present to you from field base so ignore what I said in the card/letter. I can hopefully send it on my next phase. I’m happy you miss my cooking... I miss my cooking too! I’m excited for my next phase, have great PMs and looking forward to meeting the tribal families and eating their food. I recommend you read the book ‘White tiger@ if you want to know what life is like here, it’s a very popular read. Wish Nan a happy birthday from me and that I’ll be thinking of her. Miss you lots too, not long now! X x x
Ps – hope the coffee morning went well!
