One piece of hightly important information was missed to the end of this blog, of course it is that of the final epic two month Uno result. You will understand why it was missed off by Loz when you read it.
Parks - 11659 v Lozza - 15132
I think you all might agree he took quite a hiding. Never mind son enjoy the cold!
Wednesday 3 December 2008
Monday 1 December 2008
Monday 1st December
I would just like to begin, quite reluctantly, by announcing that today, the 1st of December 2008, will now be, the last EVER blog day. With my departure tomorrow; and Parksy’s world renowned laziness, it is time to draw this 3 month work of genius to a close. And what have we learnt my friends? Well, firstly, that Africa is a place unlike any we’ve both experienced. Both hot and amazingly beautiful, Sierra Leone is home to some of the most genuinely wonderful people we’ve ever met. Yet at the same time, torn apart by a rebel war which has left its mark on both the people and the country itself, we both wonder if there is a solution, complex or simple, to Sierra Leone’s many problems. On a personal level we’ve learnt something even MORE vital. The truth that......an irritating young Southern fairy lad (loz)- supporter of the godly United, CAN co-exist with that older wiser northern money Parksy from Boro – supporter of Boro.....of course.
It’s been a blast, we’ve loved it, both surreal and sensational; Sierra Leone (Take 1) has been an experience that we’ll both remember for years to come.
67 schools and countless churches visited, 3 months down, in YOUR face Dunc, Parksy and Loz over.....and out.
It’s been a blast, we’ve loved it, both surreal and sensational; Sierra Leone (Take 1) has been an experience that we’ll both remember for years to come.
67 schools and countless churches visited, 3 months down, in YOUR face Dunc, Parksy and Loz over.....and out.
Saturday 29th November
This Saturday, we’d both decided (in the usual laddish Saturday spirit) that we’d play some football. However, unfortunately, neither of us had taken into account the fact that we are, both, ridiculously lazy. We woke, tired and in no state of mind to play such a game, thoroughly hoping that Pah Jalloh wouldn’t turn up......he didn’t. After dancing (that’s a lie we were too lazy) and praising Jesus for a while due to the fact that he’d answered our hasty prayers; we set about sorting out all things technological: i.e. the blog and our vast accumulation of pictures (don’t worry you’ll all see them when we get back.) And after this it was off to CAS Travel to sort out my helicopter ticket for Tuesday, (that’s right folks, due to various financial “difficulties” i.e. bankruptcy, I’m deserting poor Parksy a week early, sorry about that, and that’s right mum, I did say helicopter.....don’t worry it’s relatively safe.....relatively...haha)
After CAS travel we sped off to Mama Sue’s for a final gritty African meal, even meeting the legendary “Big Muma” herself, before heading off to Lumli beach.....for a swim and some eagerly anticipated Frisbee action! Needless to say, after nearly 3 months it was a brilliant, yet sad occasion to be hitting Lumli for the last time. And after successfully losing a few Frisbees, due to Parksy’s erratic throwing, we were off home. Once there we decided it was only right to toast the occasion with the consumption of recently acquired pound wine. And so, in anticipation of a slightly lengthy dedication service the next day, we drank a little...then drank some more. And suddenly, everything was right in the world.
After CAS travel we sped off to Mama Sue’s for a final gritty African meal, even meeting the legendary “Big Muma” herself, before heading off to Lumli beach.....for a swim and some eagerly anticipated Frisbee action! Needless to say, after nearly 3 months it was a brilliant, yet sad occasion to be hitting Lumli for the last time. And after successfully losing a few Frisbees, due to Parksy’s erratic throwing, we were off home. Once there we decided it was only right to toast the occasion with the consumption of recently acquired pound wine. And so, in anticipation of a slightly lengthy dedication service the next day, we drank a little...then drank some more. And suddenly, everything was right in the world.
Saturday 29 November 2008
Friday 28th November
On Friday we did manage to leave early, we met at church at 7am in order for Canon to hand on some second hand clothing for the locals and then on with the journey. Our boat departed the dock at 8.30am and on we headed to Yago. On arrival we were greeted by almost the whole village after an hour there we hit the road. The journey went without a hitch, and it included a few stops for Duvui. We finally arrived back in Freetown at 6.30pm which was nice. Fatta had prepared an evening meal for us which was pleasant all that was left was to had a shower and enjoy having our own beds again. What a week and wonderful visit to a beautiful Island!
Thursday 27th November
One last job for our visit remained, that was a visit to York Island a even smaller, more remote island if you can believe that! Before we headed off we met Canon on a walk around the old folk of the Island. It was a pleasant experience visiting them in turn in their own homes, these folk where the stalwarts of the parish of old and have all spent their whole lives on Sherbro Island. As we were heading back for breakfast we were reminded that we were due to met with the Mayor at 9am and we were already late so we made a quick visit to him. When we arrived at the town hall, basically an old beaten building on the sea front we were greeted by the Mayor, two councillors and all the council staff. We then proceeded to a meeting around this surprisingly large table surrounded by 12 executive chairs, not that we were allowed to sit on them, we were on the wooden ones! The Mayor welcomed us to the Island and told us of his plan to start a process for Visa applications to visit Sherbro Island (He did add we wouldn’t need one though as we are now seasoned visitors) and also made a request for us to get power to the Island. Not sure if we will manage that but suppose if they don’t ask they don’t get. We left him and headed for breakfast and then on to the boat. Today’s boat trip was a much shorter one only a thirty minute trip. We spoke to the head on board the boat so our visit to the school wouldn’t need to be too long and on arrival went to meet with the Chief. The Chief of York Island was a lady, the first we had come across in Sierra Leone; she had inherited it from her father. After this we headed around the Island to the school and to the site were the old church use to be. It now has no roof and is in a really bad state of repair because if this they are now meeting in an old store room, that smells really bad. When we arrived back in Bonthe we had lunch and it was then time for relaxation and packing since we were leaving early the next morning. It was a really wonderful afternoon; we spent some time with our host family and then headed to catch a glimpse of a local football match, which was in honour of the RC Archbishop of Freetown and Bo’s visit to the Island. Not long after returning from the match, he appeared by our house and we quick chat before heading back for our evening meal and some more Duvui. It was then early to bed.
Wednesday 26th November
Canon Coker’s voice outside our door woke us early on Wednesday.....we were less than pleased.
We leapt out of bed and were soon walking, for there are no cars on Bonthe my friends, south to the local port to witness the morning catch! After this exercise we plodded over to the prison and radio station where we met some of the local bad-boy prisoners, one wielding a machete! A quick stop later and we’d met the local enigmatic DJ, let’s call him DJ cool, and we were off for some late breakfast. By 11 we were off on a boat trip to Manya, a local rural village to the west of Bonthe. A serene boat journey later, and a quick stop to collect some all important duvui and we were in Manya itself. And this was “really” a complete insight into African culture. A village completely isolated from Westernisation. We greeted the local chief, handing over 20 pence to grant us safe passage across his village and then set off across it to reach one of the only beaches on Sherbro Island (where Bonthe is capital.) The journey through the bush under the beating sun took its toll on Parksy’s shoulders, now without a shirt on, his red arms and white chest gave the illusion of him actually wearing a white wife-beater....he wasn’t though....just very burnt. The beach itself was idyllic, but lacking fresh water supply due to the obstruction of an offshore bar, a LOT of manky waste had collected along the water-line. Walking home, our driver, Monsieur Jalloh, leapt a mile at the sight of a snake in the bush, the rest of us being manly just looked on with interest. We spent some further time with the town chief and his coconuts, before setting sail for our temporary home at Bonthe. Once there, the day being late, we felt it was only right to take the time to talk on the Canon’s balcony and before long, some duvui, chat and duvui later and it was that dark time again, time to sleep and prepare for the trip to York Island on Thursday!
We leapt out of bed and were soon walking, for there are no cars on Bonthe my friends, south to the local port to witness the morning catch! After this exercise we plodded over to the prison and radio station where we met some of the local bad-boy prisoners, one wielding a machete! A quick stop later and we’d met the local enigmatic DJ, let’s call him DJ cool, and we were off for some late breakfast. By 11 we were off on a boat trip to Manya, a local rural village to the west of Bonthe. A serene boat journey later, and a quick stop to collect some all important duvui and we were in Manya itself. And this was “really” a complete insight into African culture. A village completely isolated from Westernisation. We greeted the local chief, handing over 20 pence to grant us safe passage across his village and then set off across it to reach one of the only beaches on Sherbro Island (where Bonthe is capital.) The journey through the bush under the beating sun took its toll on Parksy’s shoulders, now without a shirt on, his red arms and white chest gave the illusion of him actually wearing a white wife-beater....he wasn’t though....just very burnt. The beach itself was idyllic, but lacking fresh water supply due to the obstruction of an offshore bar, a LOT of manky waste had collected along the water-line. Walking home, our driver, Monsieur Jalloh, leapt a mile at the sight of a snake in the bush, the rest of us being manly just looked on with interest. We spent some further time with the town chief and his coconuts, before setting sail for our temporary home at Bonthe. Once there, the day being late, we felt it was only right to take the time to talk on the Canon’s balcony and before long, some duvui, chat and duvui later and it was that dark time again, time to sleep and prepare for the trip to York Island on Thursday!
Tuesday 25th November
Our first day in Bonthe was relaxing to say the least. After the “epic” journeying the day before, we woke late to the smell of our gloriously scabby mattress (yum,) before wandering off on our personal guided tour of the island itself. During the day we travelled the length and breadth of the island, visiting the local tourist resort in the morning (where we solved our drinking water shortage problem......we were duped into buying tap water by this local road-salesman on Monday......the swine....and he over-charged,) before spending some time working in the local Anglican Primary school. After lunch we visited the local derelict church and met some of the town elders. After this we moved onto more important matters, we HAD TO, taste the local, fabled, duvui.....
It may look slightly very like some sort of specimen at a fertility clinic, but this version of palm wine tastes magical!
After some duvui, we moved onto the Canon’s balcony for some more duvui. The latter moments of the day were spent walking to the town’s northern perimeter where we encountered an old American commercial plane wreck. Here it was, of course, necessary for us to climb into the cock-pit to take pictures of us pretending to fly the monster, very necessary we thought. After this we settled down on the Canon’s balcony once more for some more of the fabled juice before retiring to our home to spend some time with the family and kids. Night closed in, and we hit thou scabby mattress hard.
It may look slightly very like some sort of specimen at a fertility clinic, but this version of palm wine tastes magical!
After some duvui, we moved onto the Canon’s balcony for some more duvui. The latter moments of the day were spent walking to the town’s northern perimeter where we encountered an old American commercial plane wreck. Here it was, of course, necessary for us to climb into the cock-pit to take pictures of us pretending to fly the monster, very necessary we thought. After this we settled down on the Canon’s balcony once more for some more of the fabled juice before retiring to our home to spend some time with the family and kids. Night closed in, and we hit thou scabby mattress hard.
Monday 24th November
Monday was all about travelling. A huge part of the journey was on particularly poor roads so we intended to set off at 7am so we didn’t have to do any movement in the dark. Well three letters describe what happened next TIA (This is Africa), for those who have never been it simply means that anything can happen and don’t count your chickens that things will run smoothly. By the time Jalloh turned up it was 8am, then he went to collect Canon and come back to us this took us to 9am, finally we needed to collect some things before setting off, mostly things that cost money and we finally set off at 10am. Not too bad really just three hours late. Within the first hour of the journey the car seemed to be playing up but Jalloh insisted that it would make the journey there and back with no problem, since neither of us have any mechanical knowledge we trusted him. The journey took 8 and a half hours which included an hour stop at the school at Bauya, so our arrival in Yago was at 6.30pm, we then had a two hour boat trip into Bonthe. The boat trip was wonderful, the sea was calm and it was nice to be able to spread out and watch the stars. Finally on arrival in Bonthe we were escorted to a wooden shack where we believed we might be staying, we could feel the panic on each other’s faces. Fortunately we were just here for a meal before being escorted to our accommodation. The accommodation was with a family of parishioners (more will be said about them), they made us welcome then it was off to bed.
Sunday 23rd November
Sunday morning was the big day for the Diocese of Freetown, it was the ordination service. 10 candidates were due to be ordained deacon and 8 priests. After attending the rehearsal the night before – which took two hours – we were well aware that it was going to be a long service! How right we were in total we were in the church five hours fifty three minutes. There must have been over 2500 people for the service at St Georges Cathedral and in this culture the people aren’t happy if they can’t come up to the alter to receive so communion last an hour, 9 communion hymns were sung and 3 psalms chanted. It was officially the longest service either of us had ever attended!!!!! After church we had a quick chat with Canon Coker and his wife Lucy about the trip to Bonthe, and then the Bishop said we were to tell Pa to follow his car, he was taking us to a secret location for ‘something’. With the Bishop being a Grand Commander of the Order of Rokel (a Mason to those of us on the outside) we could have been going anywhere, fortunately it was to a tiny little pub (if we told you where we would have to kill you) to meet with some of his friends for a beer or two. It is the type of secret location we both rather happy with. Finally we had an appointment at 7 to meet with Canon Coker we thought to talk about the trip further but how wrong we were, his curate had just been ordained and it was to attend her party. More beer, Good times! We finally departed at 11pm with a beer in hand to get some good rest.
Saturday 22nd November
AHhhhhhhh, awake at 3am. Less than inspired by such an hour, we managed to muster the strength to reach the “Express” (oh yes, the speedy express) bus stop by 3.45, ready to magically return to Freetown as soon as possible. We were both knackered and once on board, and on the road, Parksy took no time to find some sweet sleep salvation!
By half past 8, much surprised at the speed of the journey, we were home. Absolutely exhausted we doddered around in a daze before poor Parksy had to head off at 2pm to a practice service for Sunday’s imminent ordination service, those of us who don’t favour the life of a Bishop’s Chaplain pottered about at home getting particularly angry at the speed of the internet......
By late evening, thoroughly lacking the will to live, Iain arrived home, after muttering senselessly for a while about ordination rehearsals and constant kneeling.... I sent him straight to bed.
By half past 8, much surprised at the speed of the journey, we were home. Absolutely exhausted we doddered around in a daze before poor Parksy had to head off at 2pm to a practice service for Sunday’s imminent ordination service, those of us who don’t favour the life of a Bishop’s Chaplain pottered about at home getting particularly angry at the speed of the internet......
By late evening, thoroughly lacking the will to live, Iain arrived home, after muttering senselessly for a while about ordination rehearsals and constant kneeling.... I sent him straight to bed.
Friday 21st November
Well, well, well. On Friday morning we both felt, as if by some weird twist of fate, we’d spent the night in “comfortable” accommodation worth £1.50.......and oh look at that, we had! Daru – “ simply unforgettable accommodation.”
The money was definitely worth it, yet the state of the bathroom (outside and dirty to say the least, and a tad over-run by giant spiders,) was not; thus we were both pleased to be on our way....oddly. The idea of a school at Levuma, then Biiama, and then the prospect of a brief sleepysleep in Bo with air/con, had us dreaming of a sweet return home to Freetown. And so, we were on our way!
Travelling from school to school, some official work under our belt, took us just over 4 hours, after an early start that is, yet we seemed to snap them up as if they weren’t even there! Levuma reminded us of many other schools in Sierra Leone, over-subscribed and lacking space, yet other than that it was surviving....just. And after a brief meeting with the local town elders we were off to Baiima, the only school run by a woman in Bo Diocese! Baiima was delightful, mainly, I must say, due to the fact that the school is run by a woman who has been to England. Appreciative of the link, she was accommodating, loved our presence, and even provided us with chips and tea for lunch.....just a dream really! And the school has benefitted from the link of course.....
After 2 school visits, we were on our way to our temporary home of Bo. And after a brief stop in Talia and Kenema to pick up some school packages we were off! To Bo and beyond!
By 3pm we were, slightly battered by the dodge roads, yet certainly alive and well in Bo. And with the prospect of waking at 3am to board the government bus to Freetown, we were, accompanied by some freebie beers from Kenema, on bed by 8.30.....
The money was definitely worth it, yet the state of the bathroom (outside and dirty to say the least, and a tad over-run by giant spiders,) was not; thus we were both pleased to be on our way....oddly. The idea of a school at Levuma, then Biiama, and then the prospect of a brief sleepysleep in Bo with air/con, had us dreaming of a sweet return home to Freetown. And so, we were on our way!
Travelling from school to school, some official work under our belt, took us just over 4 hours, after an early start that is, yet we seemed to snap them up as if they weren’t even there! Levuma reminded us of many other schools in Sierra Leone, over-subscribed and lacking space, yet other than that it was surviving....just. And after a brief meeting with the local town elders we were off to Baiima, the only school run by a woman in Bo Diocese! Baiima was delightful, mainly, I must say, due to the fact that the school is run by a woman who has been to England. Appreciative of the link, she was accommodating, loved our presence, and even provided us with chips and tea for lunch.....just a dream really! And the school has benefitted from the link of course.....
After 2 school visits, we were on our way to our temporary home of Bo. And after a brief stop in Talia and Kenema to pick up some school packages we were off! To Bo and beyond!
By 3pm we were, slightly battered by the dodge roads, yet certainly alive and well in Bo. And with the prospect of waking at 3am to board the government bus to Freetown, we were, accompanied by some freebie beers from Kenema, on bed by 8.30.....
Saturday 22 November 2008
Thursday 20th November
We always knew that Thursday was the first real day of travel so much so we packed our thing from Bo and expected to be in Daru 70miles east by 4 o’clock to settle for the evening. Don’t worry we made it ok! On the way to Daru we head to Blama first a nice school just of the Bo-Kenema highway. We had a good time with the head before moving on again to the school at Komende. Komende is a particularly bad school as it has no building so the four classes all meet together in the town square. It must be impossible for the children to learning but 240 of them are at least trying. Although early on in our visit to Sierra Leone we went to the Kenema Schools we thought it wrong for us to go through Kenema and not see them again. On arrival we were greeted by Mother Tucker the new Bishops wife. From here we headed to our final school of the day Talia. Talia was an impressive school since they had a problem with the roofing of the building earlier this year. They made an appeal to their link school and they now have a roofed school and a second roofed structure to their credit. From here on to Daru! You wouldn’t believe it but we found accommodation for Le8000 which is about £1.60, granted not the most beautiful place but at least it was a bed each. After going for a few beers at a local establishment we headed back to the guest house for a meal that Mr Lusini wife had made(it was the live chicken we were given the day before!!!!). While we were eating we made friends with two Liberian women called Rose and Josephine and talked about our experience in Liberia – it seems so long ago but yet so close. It was then time for bed another big day ahead!
Wednesday 19th November
We started the third day of our 5 day mission with a visit to Bayama, the former Bishops birth village. As you will know from the earlier blog he is now retiring so we set off 35mins late (African Time) with a couple of twenty gallon tubes of palm oil and a goat (yes you read that correct a goat) loaded on the vehicle and we headed first of all to his house. We quickly passed from there on to the primary school where we were met by the children doing cultural dancing. We said a few words to them and met with the head before heading on to school two at Massam Kpaka. Sadly the link with Massam Kpaka hasn’t been a strong one and we met strong appeals to assist them in the link program. After spending time in each class we again headed off to Gobaru school. This was always going to be a difficult time as we have been having a few problems with this link but we were assured by the head that he would sort this out and after eating our third meal of the day we headed home to Bo. It seem Mr Lusini the Education secretary, never goes hungry.
Tuesday 18th November
Koiva – Vandahun – Helabu
A day of contrast for the school links team in Sierra Leone. The first school that we visited, Koiva, was dilapidated to say the least! No toilet, a run-down 40 year old building, situated in the middle of nowhere. Cultural dances, a school successfully audited, a link strengthened and an address to the town chiefs later (with a Megaphone!) and we were on our way to Vanwahun. And oh the contrast between the two closely abiding schools is so severe. Benefiting from a government grant (a rare occurrence) the school has it all! Toilets, working water well, a brand new building and, even, the holy grail of educational necessities, a brand spanking new head teacher’s quarters on site. Koiva, by the way, hasn’t even got a well. Well, after a meal of rice and bush meat (who knows what! Probably eagle or something...) we were off to our final destination of Helabu. And then, the fire-works!
On arrival at Helabu, let’s just say we weren’t happy. We walked into the first classroom, to inspect the newly furnished roof (paid for by the enthusiastic link school!) and we what we found was astonishing. The classroom, populated by 20 odd children did indeed have an excellent new roof. However, the ceiling held up by rods of bamboo, was sagging heavily, and intently, over the children. Any moment, the whole structure could have collapsed, crushing the innocent children to death! And I’m NOT exaggerating. What proceeded after this was a heated, perhaps forceful conversation with the headmaster and town chiefs about the safety of their children. Parks rammed the message home with the headmaster, and I attempted to lecture the town chiefs about their responsibilities as parents in the community, and the possibility that we would remove their link if the situation wasn’t resolved. The ironies of the situation were laughable, the subject, however, was deadly serious. After the visit, we set off for home, drained by the experience and thoroughly in need of some rest.
Oh and some, pound wine. Very important that pound wine....
A day of contrast for the school links team in Sierra Leone. The first school that we visited, Koiva, was dilapidated to say the least! No toilet, a run-down 40 year old building, situated in the middle of nowhere. Cultural dances, a school successfully audited, a link strengthened and an address to the town chiefs later (with a Megaphone!) and we were on our way to Vanwahun. And oh the contrast between the two closely abiding schools is so severe. Benefiting from a government grant (a rare occurrence) the school has it all! Toilets, working water well, a brand new building and, even, the holy grail of educational necessities, a brand spanking new head teacher’s quarters on site. Koiva, by the way, hasn’t even got a well. Well, after a meal of rice and bush meat (who knows what! Probably eagle or something...) we were off to our final destination of Helabu. And then, the fire-works!
On arrival at Helabu, let’s just say we weren’t happy. We walked into the first classroom, to inspect the newly furnished roof (paid for by the enthusiastic link school!) and we what we found was astonishing. The classroom, populated by 20 odd children did indeed have an excellent new roof. However, the ceiling held up by rods of bamboo, was sagging heavily, and intently, over the children. Any moment, the whole structure could have collapsed, crushing the innocent children to death! And I’m NOT exaggerating. What proceeded after this was a heated, perhaps forceful conversation with the headmaster and town chiefs about the safety of their children. Parks rammed the message home with the headmaster, and I attempted to lecture the town chiefs about their responsibilities as parents in the community, and the possibility that we would remove their link if the situation wasn’t resolved. The ironies of the situation were laughable, the subject, however, was deadly serious. After the visit, we set off for home, drained by the experience and thoroughly in need of some rest.
Oh and some, pound wine. Very important that pound wine....
Monday 17th November
Work, work, work.....work!
As you may have guessed, with the beginning of this week, we were back on the working trail. Bo Diocese, ready or not, here we come!
Today was to be spent predominantly in Bo town itself, visiting the schools of Bo Coronation Field (a short stone’s throw from our hotel,) the elusive Bo Dambala Road, Primary and Infant Schools, before finally bombing it the provincial wonderland of Sahn.
Well, an interesting day of school visits later and we were back in the hotel.
But what, oh what happened during the day? Well I’m writing this blog slightly later than planned, due to a mixture of laziness and early nights, maybe, induced by the purchaaase of some cartons of pound wine...maybe.
Anyway, I can’t really remember. The day’s highlights included Parks’ address to the local tribal leaders at Sahn, a truly humbling experience (humbled by the presence of the elders, not Parksy’s speech....well...) The tribal chiefs were so pleased by our presence, the school link program and everything that we had to contribute, that we were both overjoyed to be there, the experience gave our mission a sudden, wonderful and different meaningful twist.
The low-light of the day was definitely the realisation that Parks hadn’t packed the camera charger, and, completely out of battery, I may have pretended to take a few photos of some of the children to make their day and week....maybe.
After a wonderful day, we settled back in the pad, 3 schools and a day down in Bo Diocese, GET IN!!!
We’d also collected quite a considerable amount of the local Palm wine, and, oddly, it was missing in the morning.
As you may have guessed, with the beginning of this week, we were back on the working trail. Bo Diocese, ready or not, here we come!
Today was to be spent predominantly in Bo town itself, visiting the schools of Bo Coronation Field (a short stone’s throw from our hotel,) the elusive Bo Dambala Road, Primary and Infant Schools, before finally bombing it the provincial wonderland of Sahn.
Well, an interesting day of school visits later and we were back in the hotel.
But what, oh what happened during the day? Well I’m writing this blog slightly later than planned, due to a mixture of laziness and early nights, maybe, induced by the purchaaase of some cartons of pound wine...maybe.
Anyway, I can’t really remember. The day’s highlights included Parks’ address to the local tribal leaders at Sahn, a truly humbling experience (humbled by the presence of the elders, not Parksy’s speech....well...) The tribal chiefs were so pleased by our presence, the school link program and everything that we had to contribute, that we were both overjoyed to be there, the experience gave our mission a sudden, wonderful and different meaningful twist.
The low-light of the day was definitely the realisation that Parks hadn’t packed the camera charger, and, completely out of battery, I may have pretended to take a few photos of some of the children to make their day and week....maybe.
After a wonderful day, we settled back in the pad, 3 schools and a day down in Bo Diocese, GET IN!!!
We’d also collected quite a considerable amount of the local Palm wine, and, oddly, it was missing in the morning.
Sunday 16th November
Sunday was the day of the enthronement of the new Bishop of Bo, Bishop Tucker. It was a wonderful service; it was an African equivalent of a family service with African hymns and songs. We both felt it was one of the best services we had been to. The Bishop also made a statement about the future which was very positive. He challenged all of the staff, clergy and lay that they must improve and he would be there to challenge them directly, a very positive statement for the link. After the service we went to Bishops court with a small gathering for a light lunch and then made our way home. As it happens we passed an establishment that was showing the Boro match. For Le500 we couldn’t resist. As we got inside we realised, that we had been charge to sit in a wicker basket, it had one solid wall and three wicker walls. As everyone will know Boro drew 1-1 with Everton, a good result for us. We finally made it back to the hotel and sat and chatted for a couple of hours. When we got into our room we both decided we weren’t that tired so we played ‘Purple Place’ on the laptop. If you haven’t played it you should. It comes free with Vista. The biggest problem is that when we tried to sleep our minds where racing with the challenges of the game. Oh I forgot to add, yes we are losers in case you ask. Unbelievable I know!
Saturday 15th November
We started with a lazy morning, so much so our friend Lozza didn’t arise until 9am and I had already made it to breakfast, had a shower and read a hundred pages of ‘The Shack’. Finally when he managed to drag himself out of bed he headed for breakfast and put his face on he and was ready just in time for our 11.30 departure for the 70th(maybe slightly questionable) birthday celebration of the now former Bishop of Bo, Bishop Sam. The celebrations started with a service which lasted 3 hours (which takes our total up to 33 hours in services). After the service had finished we were invited down to the Methodist Hall for the shindig. It was fine but for some reason we had an agenda for how to celebrate, which include 35mins of statements and toasts. Finally we wished the Bishop a very happy birthday and headed back to the accommodation for a well earned rest
Friday 14th November
Due to the fact that the Bo Diocesan vehicle is being used over the weekend, we were forced to take a break, have a kit-kat, generally mooching in the Sahara Hotel for most of the day.
After a relaxed morning spent mainly in the relative comfort of the Hotel, we took a leisurely stroll into Bo to visit every-bodies favourite seamster (not stunning Seamstress unfortunately....one can dream!) collect some money, before having some lunch worth a mighty £2 each, for 3 drinks and a full meal!
After this we spent the majority of the afternoon relaxing, thoroughly chilled and, before long, the sun was setting and the evening was drawing in. Quickly rushing out to grab some bread and meat skewers, we settled down on our Balcony in the twilight hours to reflect on our time in Sierra Leone, happily munching on our skewers as we did so.
After a relaxed morning spent mainly in the relative comfort of the Hotel, we took a leisurely stroll into Bo to visit every-bodies favourite seamster (not stunning Seamstress unfortunately....one can dream!) collect some money, before having some lunch worth a mighty £2 each, for 3 drinks and a full meal!
After this we spent the majority of the afternoon relaxing, thoroughly chilled and, before long, the sun was setting and the evening was drawing in. Quickly rushing out to grab some bread and meat skewers, we settled down on our Balcony in the twilight hours to reflect on our time in Sierra Leone, happily munching on our skewers as we did so.
Thursday 13th November
After a night in Moyamba; we were raring to hit the beaten-track and, particularly, eager to tick some schools off our extensive Bo list. Hopeful of reaching Bo before nightfall we set off, now truly in working mode, to meet Edward Luseni – Bo Diocese Educational Secretary, at Moyamba primary school. With one more onboard, the Parks and Loz train to Kangahun Primary and Secondary School left Moyamba for the last time.
After an hour or so we arrived at our destination and set to work. A brief meeting with the Head Teacher later and one package off letters in hand; we busied ourselves by going from classroom to classroom introducing ourselves to the children and teachers. However, now firmly situated in Mende speaking country, on more than one occasion, the children would stare back at us with blank misunderstanding faces. Unfortunately for Parksy, his “northern accent” was causing quite a bit of a stir when it came to speaking to the kids who, in a word, seemed quite......clueless. This combined with the fact that after a week of holiday, both of our minds, especially poor Parksy’s, had turned to quasi-vacuum like...erm......mush, meant that we were finding the going slightly tough. Fortunately, as we all know, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going,” and after a quick team meeting, and a high-five (maybe even some spirit fingers,) we rallied. And soon, via a combination off photo taking, waving, smiling, slow “clear” inspirational speeches and general acts of Parks and Loz genius......the children loved us!!
Using the same godly techniques at the next school in Mano Dasse, we were soon 3 schools down, we’d spent 4 hours on the road and, by 3pm, we were in Bo......again!
We spent the rest of the afternoon collecting 12 bags of Bo “Garri” from the local dealer for Bishop Lynch, before settling down in our favourite Bo lodgings: The Sahara Hotel.
After an hour or so we arrived at our destination and set to work. A brief meeting with the Head Teacher later and one package off letters in hand; we busied ourselves by going from classroom to classroom introducing ourselves to the children and teachers. However, now firmly situated in Mende speaking country, on more than one occasion, the children would stare back at us with blank misunderstanding faces. Unfortunately for Parksy, his “northern accent” was causing quite a bit of a stir when it came to speaking to the kids who, in a word, seemed quite......clueless. This combined with the fact that after a week of holiday, both of our minds, especially poor Parksy’s, had turned to quasi-vacuum like...erm......mush, meant that we were finding the going slightly tough. Fortunately, as we all know, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going,” and after a quick team meeting, and a high-five (maybe even some spirit fingers,) we rallied. And soon, via a combination off photo taking, waving, smiling, slow “clear” inspirational speeches and general acts of Parks and Loz genius......the children loved us!!
Using the same godly techniques at the next school in Mano Dasse, we were soon 3 schools down, we’d spent 4 hours on the road and, by 3pm, we were in Bo......again!
We spent the rest of the afternoon collecting 12 bags of Bo “Garri” from the local dealer for Bishop Lynch, before settling down in our favourite Bo lodgings: The Sahara Hotel.
Wednesday 12th November
It was about time we got back to doing some real work so we got on board the Green Machine and headed for Moyamba a school that has already been mentioned in this blog. It took us about 4 hours since the roads where bad but we finally arrive. We were greeted by all the children sitting outside and we had a lovely time. We had an opportunity to introduce ourselves which we duly did and they did some cultural dancing for us. It is great to see them as young as 5 dancing around in cultural dress. After this we headed back to the Guest House for some lunch and a relaxing afternoon. In the evening all the teachers came to share a meal with us. It was a shared plate of Cassava Leaf. It was a lovely meal; we in true English fashion used spoons while the local’s dag in with the hands. It really is a sight worth seeing.
Tuesday 11th November
Well Lakka beach on day two what a strenuous day ahead. We were going to enjoy the relaxation that was for sure. We awoke around 8 so not to waste much of the morning. Breakfast was ready waiting, good old omelette then Lozza in particular could wait to get his lounger and settle down to some old man music and his book. It really was lovely but was really hot by 11 that we had to jump in the sea to cool off – I know what you are all thinking, they are really suffering out there! You’d be right life is tough. After losing three Frisbees to the strong undercurrent of the sea we headed back to the hotel for a rest before lunch. For lunch we were eating our own catch from the night before it was fabulous (even Loz enjoyed it). I have to admit I felt it would have been a crime not to enjoy a Lobster so I, for a measly £6, I decided to partake and it was good. After lunch we were heading back to Freetown for me to have a meeting with the development board, and in normal fashion we had a flat tyre, Pa Jalloh was suggesting sabotage, since he refused to park earlier in the day. Bad times! After another 30minute breakdown we were back on track. My meeting went smoothly and after just an hour I came out feeling well happy about what had gone on. On arrival at Bishops Court we had just walked in the door and Claire and the Kids turned up. It was fun watching Loz the babysitter and Ben the youngest having a face pulling contest, of course Loz won but then he would even with his natural face! We finished the day in the Diocesan Office and a small computer fix.
Monday 11th November
On Monday, finally, after weeks of preparation, our dream of reaching the remote, beautiful, idyllic Lakka beach had become an incredible reality. Needless to say, much time was wasted with high-fives (though no time spent high fiving another man is really wasted!) we set off for Lakka with old Pah Jalloh, the legend himself, as our escort. We were off!!
Now, I don’t want to give everyone at home a false impression of Lakka, so I’ll leave much of the interesting descriptions to when we return to the cold UK. However, Ladies and Gents, it is basically, truly.....awesome. We arrived just before lunch, which gave us a perfect period of time to settle into our room, settle into a hammock, looking out across the wide glistening expanse of the Atlantic, time to chillax with a beer in one hand and a book in the other. After this we both dined on some grilled Barracuda and chips, followed by another beer or so, before we set off to relax in the sea. This was indeed holiday, the first in 2 months.
And then for the day’s finale......the fishing trip! I can’t bring myself to describe it in written word right now, so you’ll have to wait until we’re both back. Yet, highlights for me included, Parksy’s capture of two fish on one line, my capture of a sheep’s head (better, and tastier, than it sounds) and of course, Iain’s attempt to get stuck in with bailing out the water we were taking on. Seizing the bucket confidently, he filled it, measured his throw; threw it straight over his shoulder......and straight back into the boat on the other side of him.....much laughing distracted the fishing for a time to come. On the return journey, as darkness approached, looking inland at the beauty of Sierra Leone’s “fresh green breast of land” I experienced a particular Gatsbyesque moment which I’ll never forget.
We triumphantly reached the shore in darkness, two humble fishermen, catch in hand....6 fish each!
What a day!
Now, I don’t want to give everyone at home a false impression of Lakka, so I’ll leave much of the interesting descriptions to when we return to the cold UK. However, Ladies and Gents, it is basically, truly.....awesome. We arrived just before lunch, which gave us a perfect period of time to settle into our room, settle into a hammock, looking out across the wide glistening expanse of the Atlantic, time to chillax with a beer in one hand and a book in the other. After this we both dined on some grilled Barracuda and chips, followed by another beer or so, before we set off to relax in the sea. This was indeed holiday, the first in 2 months.
And then for the day’s finale......the fishing trip! I can’t bring myself to describe it in written word right now, so you’ll have to wait until we’re both back. Yet, highlights for me included, Parksy’s capture of two fish on one line, my capture of a sheep’s head (better, and tastier, than it sounds) and of course, Iain’s attempt to get stuck in with bailing out the water we were taking on. Seizing the bucket confidently, he filled it, measured his throw; threw it straight over his shoulder......and straight back into the boat on the other side of him.....much laughing distracted the fishing for a time to come. On the return journey, as darkness approached, looking inland at the beauty of Sierra Leone’s “fresh green breast of land” I experienced a particular Gatsbyesque moment which I’ll never forget.
We triumphantly reached the shore in darkness, two humble fishermen, catch in hand....6 fish each!
What a day!
Sunday 10th November
We had decided, long ago, that this Sunday, we would take one for the team, and eat up an early morning Eucharistic service. We arrived at St Philips - Patton Street, at 7.30am, geared up to take on the world. Greeted warmly by one of our favourite Canons, Canon Coker, we sat down to enjoy the service. And enjoy......we did. 1 hour and 13 recorded minutes later, the shortest African service in the history of time had finished, we emerged, triumphant, cleansed, oh so happy, and free to spend the rest of the day as we wished; we set off for home. We arrived back at the lodge within 5 minutes, and still loudly singing Lionel Richie’s – Easy Like a Sunday Morning – (well, me singing, Parksy doing his best....) we settled down on the balcony, embraced by the cool sea breeze, to muse for a time what exactly to do with the unique, lengthy day. 1 hour passed......2 hours passed..........3 hours passed, and eventually, when we would usually be emerging from a church service, inspiration was consumed by laziness....we did nothing. We were expecting one of our Sierra Leonie brothers, Ansu, to arrive at 1pm as we were throwing a little birthday shindig for him, each of us wilfully intent on consuming Fatta’s prepared dish, maybe even dabbling in an Uno game or two, who knows!
Well, after we’d presented Ansu with his dirty dirty Liverpool shirt, and sung a quick happy birthday (that’s a bit of a lie, we’re both too manly to sing it man to man) we retired to the balcony again!
Some wine was consumed, and conversation was had before we turned to the more serious business of teaching the lad to play the sweet card game.......Ansu won......I lost......enough said.
Well, after we’d presented Ansu with his dirty dirty Liverpool shirt, and sung a quick happy birthday (that’s a bit of a lie, we’re both too manly to sing it man to man) we retired to the balcony again!
Some wine was consumed, and conversation was had before we turned to the more serious business of teaching the lad to play the sweet card game.......Ansu won......I lost......enough said.
9th November
On my 60 day anniversary in Sierra Leone, we felt, in a word.....average. The night before had taken its toll and we awoke very slowly, Parksy, in particular, felt unmoveable.....how he loves to dance!
However, we were both excited (when I say both, I mean just myself) by the approaching football match between United and Arsenal and, eventually, we gathered enough strength to call for the car to pick us up, with the idea of travelling to our favourite football viewing haunt on Liverpool Street. On arrival, on what was to be an unlucky day for United (very unlucky) we realised that neither of us was in for a particularly enjoyable day. Both seated on a crate, in a narrow aisle alongside 60 Sierra Leonies, after 45 minutes of the stuffy atmosphere, fuelled by slight illness and constantly moving to view the TV screen, we called it a day at Liverpool Street and set off for the YMCA....United were 1-0 down at half time. At the YMCA, although the atmosphere was more relaxed, the day continued to have the happiness sapped from it by the powers that be....United went 2-0 down. As soon as the game ended, my head held high (wearing a sleeveless United shirt!) we left for home turf. I was less than happy, neither was Parks, though he was roused by my own displeasure briefly.....
The day passed in a gentle fashion from here on, neither of us in a particularly awesome temperament....2-1.....2-1....
However, we were both excited (when I say both, I mean just myself) by the approaching football match between United and Arsenal and, eventually, we gathered enough strength to call for the car to pick us up, with the idea of travelling to our favourite football viewing haunt on Liverpool Street. On arrival, on what was to be an unlucky day for United (very unlucky) we realised that neither of us was in for a particularly enjoyable day. Both seated on a crate, in a narrow aisle alongside 60 Sierra Leonies, after 45 minutes of the stuffy atmosphere, fuelled by slight illness and constantly moving to view the TV screen, we called it a day at Liverpool Street and set off for the YMCA....United were 1-0 down at half time. At the YMCA, although the atmosphere was more relaxed, the day continued to have the happiness sapped from it by the powers that be....United went 2-0 down. As soon as the game ended, my head held high (wearing a sleeveless United shirt!) we left for home turf. I was less than happy, neither was Parks, though he was roused by my own displeasure briefly.....
The day passed in a gentle fashion from here on, neither of us in a particularly awesome temperament....2-1.....2-1....
Friday 14 November 2008
Sat 9th November to Wed 12th November
Saturday 9th
On my 60 day anniversary in Sierra Leone, we felt, in a word.....average. The night before had taken its toll and we awoke very slowly, Parksy, in particular, felt unmoveable.....how he loves to dance!
However, we were both excited (when I say both, I mean just myself) by the approaching football match between United and Arsenal and, eventually, we gathered enough strength to call for the car to pick us up, with the idea of travelling to our favourite football viewing haunt on Liverpool Street. On arrival, on what was to be an unlucky day for United (very unlucky) we realised that neither of us was in for a particularly enjoyable day. Both seated on a crate, in a narrow aisle alongside 60 Sierra Leonies, after 45 minutes of the stuffy atmosphere, fuelled by slight illness and constantly moving to view the TV screen, we called it a day at Liverpool Street and set off for the YMCA....United were 1-0 down at half time. At the YMCA, although the atmosphere was more relaxed, the day continued to have the happiness sapped from it by the powers that be....United went 2-0 down. As soon as the game ended, my head held high (wearing a sleeveless United shirt!) we left for home turf. I was less than happy, neither was Parks, though he was roused by my own displeasure briefly.....
The day passed in a gentle fashion from here on, neither of us in a particularly awesome temperament....2-1.....2-1....
Sunday 10th
We had decided, long ago, that this Sunday, we would take one for the team, and eat up an early morning Eucharistic service. We arrived at St Philips - Patton Street, at 7.30am, geared up to take on the world. Greeted warmly by one of our favourite Canons, Canon Coker, we sat down to enjoy the service. And enjoy......we did. 1 hour and 13 recorded minutes later, the shortest African service in the history of time had finished, we emerged, triumphant, cleansed, oh so happy, and free to spend the rest of the day as we wished; we set off for home. We arrived back at the lodge within 5 minutes, and still loudly singing Lionel Richie’s – Easy Like a Sunday Morning – (well, me singing, Parksy doing his best....) we settled down on the balcony, embraced by the cool sea breeze, to muse for a time what exactly to do with the unique, lengthy day. 1 hour passed......2 hours passed..........3 hours passed, and eventually, when we would usually be emerging from a church service, inspiration was consumed by laziness....we did nothing. We were expecting one of our Sierra Leonie brothers, Ansu, to arrive at 1pm as we were throwing a little birthday shindig for him, each of us wilfully intent on consuming Fatta’s prepared dish, maybe even dabbling in an Uno game or two, who knows!
Well, after we’d presented Ansu with his dirty dirty Liverpool shirt, and sung a quick happy birthday (that’s a bit of a lie, we’re both too manly to sing it man to man) we retired to the balcony again!
Some wine was consumed, and conversation was had before we turned to the more serious business of teaching the lad to play the sweet card game.......Ansu won......I lost......enough said.
Monday 11th – LAKKA BEACH
On Monday, finally, after weeks of preparation, our dream of reaching the remote, beautiful, idyllic Lakka beach had become an incredible reality. Needless to say, much time was wasted with high-fives (though no time spent high fiving another man is really wasted!) we set off for Lakka with old Pah Jalloh, the legend himself, as our escort. We were off!!
Now, I don’t want to give everyone at home a false impression of Lakka, so I’ll leave much of the interesting descriptions to when we return to the cold UK. However, Ladies and Gents, it is basically, truly.....awesome. We arrived just before lunch, which gave us a perfect period of time to settle into our room, settle into a hammock, looking out across the wide glistening expanse of the Atlantic, time to chillax with a beer in one hand and a book in the other. After this we both dined on some grilled Barracuda and chips, followed by another beer or so, before we set off to relax in the sea. This was indeed holiday, the first in 2 months.
And then for the day’s finale......the fishing trip! I can’t bring myself to describe it in written word right now, so you’ll have to wait until we’re both back. Yet, highlights for me included, Parksy’s capture of two fish on one line, my capture of a sheep’s head (better, and tastier, than it sounds) and of course, Iain’s attempt to get stuck in with bailing out the water we were taking on. Seizing the bucket confidently, he filled it, measured his throw; threw it straight over his shoulder......and straight back into the boat on the other side of him.....much laughing distracted the fishing for a time to come. On the return journey, as darkness approached, looking inland at the beauty of Sierra Leone’s “fresh green breast of land” I experienced a particular Gatsbyesque moment which I’ll never forget.
We triumphantly reached the shore in darkness, two humble fishermen, catch in hand....6 fish each!
What a day!
Tuesday 11th November
Well Lakka beach on day two what a strenuous day ahead. We were going to enjoy the relaxation that was for sure. We awoke around 8 so not to waste much of the morning. Breakfast was ready waiting, good old omelette then Lozza in particular could wait to get his lounger and settle down to some old man music and his book. It really was lovely but was really hot by 11 that we had to jump in the sea to cool off – I know what you are all thinking, they are really suffering out there! You’d be right life is tough. After losing three Frisbees to the strong undercurrent of the sea we headed back to the hotel for a rest before lunch. For lunch we were eating our own catch from the night before it was fabulous (even Loz enjoyed it). I have to admit I felt it would have been a crime not to enjoy a Lobster so I, for a measly £6, I decided to partake and it was good. After lunch we were heading back to Freetown for me to have a meeting with the development board, and in normal fashion we had a flat tyre, Pa Jalloh was suggesting sabotage, since he refused to park earlier in the day. Bad times! After another 30minute breakdown we were back on track. My meeting went smoothly and after just an hour I came out feeling well happy about what had gone on. On arrival at Bishops Court we had just walked in the door and Claire and the Kids turned up. It was fun watching Loz the babysitter and Ben the youngest having a face pulling contest, of course Loz won but then he would even with his natural face! We finished the day in the Diocesan Office and a small computer fix.
Wednesday 12th
It was about time we got back to doing some real work so we got on board the Green Machine and headed for Moyamba a school that has already been mentioned in this blog. It took us about 4 hours since the roads where bad but we finally arrive. We were greeted by all the children sitting outside and we had a lovely time. We had an opportunity to introduce ourselves which we duly did and they did some cultural dancing for us. It is great to see them as young as 5 dancing around in cultural dress. After this we headed back to the Guest House for some lunch and a relaxing afternoon. In the evening all the teachers came to share a meal with us. It was a shared plate of Cassava Leaf. It was a lovely meal; we in true English fashion used spoons while the local’s dag in with the hands. It really is a sight worth seeing.
On my 60 day anniversary in Sierra Leone, we felt, in a word.....average. The night before had taken its toll and we awoke very slowly, Parksy, in particular, felt unmoveable.....how he loves to dance!
However, we were both excited (when I say both, I mean just myself) by the approaching football match between United and Arsenal and, eventually, we gathered enough strength to call for the car to pick us up, with the idea of travelling to our favourite football viewing haunt on Liverpool Street. On arrival, on what was to be an unlucky day for United (very unlucky) we realised that neither of us was in for a particularly enjoyable day. Both seated on a crate, in a narrow aisle alongside 60 Sierra Leonies, after 45 minutes of the stuffy atmosphere, fuelled by slight illness and constantly moving to view the TV screen, we called it a day at Liverpool Street and set off for the YMCA....United were 1-0 down at half time. At the YMCA, although the atmosphere was more relaxed, the day continued to have the happiness sapped from it by the powers that be....United went 2-0 down. As soon as the game ended, my head held high (wearing a sleeveless United shirt!) we left for home turf. I was less than happy, neither was Parks, though he was roused by my own displeasure briefly.....
The day passed in a gentle fashion from here on, neither of us in a particularly awesome temperament....2-1.....2-1....
Sunday 10th
We had decided, long ago, that this Sunday, we would take one for the team, and eat up an early morning Eucharistic service. We arrived at St Philips - Patton Street, at 7.30am, geared up to take on the world. Greeted warmly by one of our favourite Canons, Canon Coker, we sat down to enjoy the service. And enjoy......we did. 1 hour and 13 recorded minutes later, the shortest African service in the history of time had finished, we emerged, triumphant, cleansed, oh so happy, and free to spend the rest of the day as we wished; we set off for home. We arrived back at the lodge within 5 minutes, and still loudly singing Lionel Richie’s – Easy Like a Sunday Morning – (well, me singing, Parksy doing his best....) we settled down on the balcony, embraced by the cool sea breeze, to muse for a time what exactly to do with the unique, lengthy day. 1 hour passed......2 hours passed..........3 hours passed, and eventually, when we would usually be emerging from a church service, inspiration was consumed by laziness....we did nothing. We were expecting one of our Sierra Leonie brothers, Ansu, to arrive at 1pm as we were throwing a little birthday shindig for him, each of us wilfully intent on consuming Fatta’s prepared dish, maybe even dabbling in an Uno game or two, who knows!
Well, after we’d presented Ansu with his dirty dirty Liverpool shirt, and sung a quick happy birthday (that’s a bit of a lie, we’re both too manly to sing it man to man) we retired to the balcony again!
Some wine was consumed, and conversation was had before we turned to the more serious business of teaching the lad to play the sweet card game.......Ansu won......I lost......enough said.
Monday 11th – LAKKA BEACH
On Monday, finally, after weeks of preparation, our dream of reaching the remote, beautiful, idyllic Lakka beach had become an incredible reality. Needless to say, much time was wasted with high-fives (though no time spent high fiving another man is really wasted!) we set off for Lakka with old Pah Jalloh, the legend himself, as our escort. We were off!!
Now, I don’t want to give everyone at home a false impression of Lakka, so I’ll leave much of the interesting descriptions to when we return to the cold UK. However, Ladies and Gents, it is basically, truly.....awesome. We arrived just before lunch, which gave us a perfect period of time to settle into our room, settle into a hammock, looking out across the wide glistening expanse of the Atlantic, time to chillax with a beer in one hand and a book in the other. After this we both dined on some grilled Barracuda and chips, followed by another beer or so, before we set off to relax in the sea. This was indeed holiday, the first in 2 months.
And then for the day’s finale......the fishing trip! I can’t bring myself to describe it in written word right now, so you’ll have to wait until we’re both back. Yet, highlights for me included, Parksy’s capture of two fish on one line, my capture of a sheep’s head (better, and tastier, than it sounds) and of course, Iain’s attempt to get stuck in with bailing out the water we were taking on. Seizing the bucket confidently, he filled it, measured his throw; threw it straight over his shoulder......and straight back into the boat on the other side of him.....much laughing distracted the fishing for a time to come. On the return journey, as darkness approached, looking inland at the beauty of Sierra Leone’s “fresh green breast of land” I experienced a particular Gatsbyesque moment which I’ll never forget.
We triumphantly reached the shore in darkness, two humble fishermen, catch in hand....6 fish each!
What a day!
Tuesday 11th November
Well Lakka beach on day two what a strenuous day ahead. We were going to enjoy the relaxation that was for sure. We awoke around 8 so not to waste much of the morning. Breakfast was ready waiting, good old omelette then Lozza in particular could wait to get his lounger and settle down to some old man music and his book. It really was lovely but was really hot by 11 that we had to jump in the sea to cool off – I know what you are all thinking, they are really suffering out there! You’d be right life is tough. After losing three Frisbees to the strong undercurrent of the sea we headed back to the hotel for a rest before lunch. For lunch we were eating our own catch from the night before it was fabulous (even Loz enjoyed it). I have to admit I felt it would have been a crime not to enjoy a Lobster so I, for a measly £6, I decided to partake and it was good. After lunch we were heading back to Freetown for me to have a meeting with the development board, and in normal fashion we had a flat tyre, Pa Jalloh was suggesting sabotage, since he refused to park earlier in the day. Bad times! After another 30minute breakdown we were back on track. My meeting went smoothly and after just an hour I came out feeling well happy about what had gone on. On arrival at Bishops Court we had just walked in the door and Claire and the Kids turned up. It was fun watching Loz the babysitter and Ben the youngest having a face pulling contest, of course Loz won but then he would even with his natural face! We finished the day in the Diocesan Office and a small computer fix.
Wednesday 12th
It was about time we got back to doing some real work so we got on board the Green Machine and headed for Moyamba a school that has already been mentioned in this blog. It took us about 4 hours since the roads where bad but we finally arrive. We were greeted by all the children sitting outside and we had a lovely time. We had an opportunity to introduce ourselves which we duly did and they did some cultural dancing for us. It is great to see them as young as 5 dancing around in cultural dress. After this we headed back to the Guest House for some lunch and a relaxing afternoon. In the evening all the teachers came to share a meal with us. It was a shared plate of Cassava Leaf. It was a lovely meal; we in true English fashion used spoons while the local’s dag in with the hands. It really is a sight worth seeing.
Saturday 9th November to Wednesday 12th November
Saturday 9th
On my 60 day anniversary in Sierra Leone, we felt, in a word.....average. The night before had taken its toll and we awoke very slowly, Parksy, in particular, felt unmoveable.....how he loves to dance!
However, we were both excited (when I say both, I mean just myself) by the approaching football match between United and Arsenal and, eventually, we gathered enough strength to call for the car to pick us up, with the idea of travelling to our favourite football viewing haunt on Liverpool Street. On arrival, on what was to be an unlucky day for United (very unlucky) we realised that neither of us was in for a particularly enjoyable day. Both seated on a crate, in a narrow aisle alongside 60 Sierra Leonies, after 45 minutes of the stuffy atmosphere, fuelled by slight illness and constantly moving to view the TV screen, we called it a day at Liverpool Street and set off for the YMCA....United were 1-0 down at half time. At the YMCA, although the atmosphere was more relaxed, the day continued to have the happiness sapped from it by the powers that be....United went 2-0 down. As soon as the game ended, my head held high (wearing a sleeveless United shirt!) we left for home turf. I was less than happy, neither was Parks, though he was roused by my own displeasure briefly.....
The day passed in a gentle fashion from here on, neither of us in a particularly awesome temperament....2-1.....2-1....
Sunday 10th
We had decided, long ago, that this Sunday, we would take one for the team, and eat up an early morning Eucharistic service. We arrived at St Philips - Patton Street, at 7.30am, geared up to take on the world. Greeted warmly by one of our favourite Canons, Canon Coker, we sat down to enjoy the service. And enjoy......we did. 1 hour and 13 recorded minutes later, the shortest African service in the history of time had finished, we emerged, triumphant, cleansed, oh so happy, and free to spend the rest of the day as we wished; we set off for home. We arrived back at the lodge within 5 minutes, and still loudly singing Lionel Richie’s – Easy Like a Sunday Morning – (well, me singing, Parksy doing his best....) we settled down on the balcony, embraced by the cool sea breeze, to muse for a time what exactly to do with the unique, lengthy day. 1 hour passed......2 hours passed..........3 hours passed, and eventually, when we would usually be emerging from a church service, inspiration was consumed by laziness....we did nothing. We were expecting one of our Sierra Leonie brothers, Ansu, to arrive at 1pm as we were throwing a little birthday shindig for him, each of us wilfully intent on consuming Fatta’s prepared dish, maybe even dabbling in an Uno game or two, who knows!
Well, after we’d presented Ansu with his dirty dirty Liverpool shirt, and sung a quick happy birthday (that’s a bit of a lie, we’re both too manly to sing it man to man) we retired to the balcony again!
Some wine was consumed, and conversation was had before we turned to the more serious business of teaching the lad to play the sweet card game.......Ansu won......I lost......enough said.
Monday 11th – LAKKA BEACH
On Monday, finally, after weeks of preparation, our dream of reaching the remote, beautiful, idyllic Lakka beach had become an incredible reality. Needless to say, much time was wasted with high-fives (though no time spent high fiving another man is really wasted!) we set off for Lakka with old Pah Jalloh, the legend himself, as our escort. We were off!!
Now, I don’t want to give everyone at home a false impression of Lakka, so I’ll leave much of the interesting descriptions to when we return to the cold UK. However, Ladies and Gents, it is basically, truly.....awesome. We arrived just before lunch, which gave us a perfect period of time to settle into our room, settle into a hammock, looking out across the wide glistening expanse of the Atlantic, time to chillax with a beer in one hand and a book in the other. After this we both dined on some grilled Barracuda and chips, followed by another beer or so, before we set off to relax in the sea. This was indeed holiday, the first in 2 months.
And then for the day’s finale......the fishing trip! I can’t bring myself to describe it in written word right now, so you’ll have to wait until we’re both back. Yet, highlights for me included, Parksy’s capture of two fish on one line, my capture of a sheep’s head (better, and tastier, than it sounds) and of course, Iain’s attempt to get stuck in with bailing out the water we were taking on. Seizing the bucket confidently, he filled it, measured his throw; threw it straight over his shoulder......and straight back into the boat on the other side of him.....much laughing distracted the fishing for a time to come. On the return journey, as darkness approached, looking inland at the beauty of Sierra Leone’s “fresh green breast of land” I experienced a particular Gatsbyesque moment which I’ll never forget.
We triumphantly reached the shore in darkness, two humble fishermen, catch in hand....6 fish each!
What a day!
Tuesday 11th November
Well Lakka beach on day two what a strenuous day ahead. We were going to enjoy the relaxation that was for sure. We awoke around 8 so not to waste much of the morning. Breakfast was ready waiting, good old omelette then Lozza in particular could wait to get his lounger and settle down to some old man music and his book. It really was lovely but was really hot by 11 that we had to jump in the sea to cool off – I know what you are all thinking, they are really suffering out there! You’d be right life is tough. After losing three Frisbees to the strong undercurrent of the sea we headed back to the hotel for a rest before lunch. For lunch we were eating our own catch from the night before it was fabulous (even Loz enjoyed it). I have to admit I felt it would have been a crime not to enjoy a Lobster so I, for a measly £6, I decided to partake and it was good. After lunch we were heading back to Freetown for me to have a meeting with the development board, and in normal fashion we had a flat tyre, Pa Jalloh was suggesting sabotage, since he refused to park earlier in the day. Bad times! After another 30minute breakdown we were back on track. My meeting went smoothly and after just an hour I came out feeling well happy about what had gone on. On arrival at Bishops Court we had just walked in the door and Claire and the Kids turned up. It was fun watching Loz the babysitter and Ben the youngest having a face pulling contest, of course Loz won but then he would even with his natural face! We finished the day in the Diocesan Office and a small computer fix.
Wednesday 12th
It was about time we got back to doing some real work so we got on board the Green Machine and headed for Moyamba a school that has already been mentioned in this blog. It took us about 4 hours since the roads where bad but we finally arrive. We were greeted by all the children sitting outside and we had a lovely time. We had an opportunity to introduce ourselves which we duly did and they did some cultural dancing for us. It is great to see them as young as 5 dancing around in cultural dress. After this we headed back to the Guest House for some lunch and a relaxing afternoon. In the evening all the teachers came to share a meal with us. It was a shared plate of Cassava Leaf. It was a lovely meal; we in true English fashion used spoons while the local’s dag in with the hands. It really is a sight worth seeing.
On my 60 day anniversary in Sierra Leone, we felt, in a word.....average. The night before had taken its toll and we awoke very slowly, Parksy, in particular, felt unmoveable.....how he loves to dance!
However, we were both excited (when I say both, I mean just myself) by the approaching football match between United and Arsenal and, eventually, we gathered enough strength to call for the car to pick us up, with the idea of travelling to our favourite football viewing haunt on Liverpool Street. On arrival, on what was to be an unlucky day for United (very unlucky) we realised that neither of us was in for a particularly enjoyable day. Both seated on a crate, in a narrow aisle alongside 60 Sierra Leonies, after 45 minutes of the stuffy atmosphere, fuelled by slight illness and constantly moving to view the TV screen, we called it a day at Liverpool Street and set off for the YMCA....United were 1-0 down at half time. At the YMCA, although the atmosphere was more relaxed, the day continued to have the happiness sapped from it by the powers that be....United went 2-0 down. As soon as the game ended, my head held high (wearing a sleeveless United shirt!) we left for home turf. I was less than happy, neither was Parks, though he was roused by my own displeasure briefly.....
The day passed in a gentle fashion from here on, neither of us in a particularly awesome temperament....2-1.....2-1....
Sunday 10th
We had decided, long ago, that this Sunday, we would take one for the team, and eat up an early morning Eucharistic service. We arrived at St Philips - Patton Street, at 7.30am, geared up to take on the world. Greeted warmly by one of our favourite Canons, Canon Coker, we sat down to enjoy the service. And enjoy......we did. 1 hour and 13 recorded minutes later, the shortest African service in the history of time had finished, we emerged, triumphant, cleansed, oh so happy, and free to spend the rest of the day as we wished; we set off for home. We arrived back at the lodge within 5 minutes, and still loudly singing Lionel Richie’s – Easy Like a Sunday Morning – (well, me singing, Parksy doing his best....) we settled down on the balcony, embraced by the cool sea breeze, to muse for a time what exactly to do with the unique, lengthy day. 1 hour passed......2 hours passed..........3 hours passed, and eventually, when we would usually be emerging from a church service, inspiration was consumed by laziness....we did nothing. We were expecting one of our Sierra Leonie brothers, Ansu, to arrive at 1pm as we were throwing a little birthday shindig for him, each of us wilfully intent on consuming Fatta’s prepared dish, maybe even dabbling in an Uno game or two, who knows!
Well, after we’d presented Ansu with his dirty dirty Liverpool shirt, and sung a quick happy birthday (that’s a bit of a lie, we’re both too manly to sing it man to man) we retired to the balcony again!
Some wine was consumed, and conversation was had before we turned to the more serious business of teaching the lad to play the sweet card game.......Ansu won......I lost......enough said.
Monday 11th – LAKKA BEACH
On Monday, finally, after weeks of preparation, our dream of reaching the remote, beautiful, idyllic Lakka beach had become an incredible reality. Needless to say, much time was wasted with high-fives (though no time spent high fiving another man is really wasted!) we set off for Lakka with old Pah Jalloh, the legend himself, as our escort. We were off!!
Now, I don’t want to give everyone at home a false impression of Lakka, so I’ll leave much of the interesting descriptions to when we return to the cold UK. However, Ladies and Gents, it is basically, truly.....awesome. We arrived just before lunch, which gave us a perfect period of time to settle into our room, settle into a hammock, looking out across the wide glistening expanse of the Atlantic, time to chillax with a beer in one hand and a book in the other. After this we both dined on some grilled Barracuda and chips, followed by another beer or so, before we set off to relax in the sea. This was indeed holiday, the first in 2 months.
And then for the day’s finale......the fishing trip! I can’t bring myself to describe it in written word right now, so you’ll have to wait until we’re both back. Yet, highlights for me included, Parksy’s capture of two fish on one line, my capture of a sheep’s head (better, and tastier, than it sounds) and of course, Iain’s attempt to get stuck in with bailing out the water we were taking on. Seizing the bucket confidently, he filled it, measured his throw; threw it straight over his shoulder......and straight back into the boat on the other side of him.....much laughing distracted the fishing for a time to come. On the return journey, as darkness approached, looking inland at the beauty of Sierra Leone’s “fresh green breast of land” I experienced a particular Gatsbyesque moment which I’ll never forget.
We triumphantly reached the shore in darkness, two humble fishermen, catch in hand....6 fish each!
What a day!
Tuesday 11th November
Well Lakka beach on day two what a strenuous day ahead. We were going to enjoy the relaxation that was for sure. We awoke around 8 so not to waste much of the morning. Breakfast was ready waiting, good old omelette then Lozza in particular could wait to get his lounger and settle down to some old man music and his book. It really was lovely but was really hot by 11 that we had to jump in the sea to cool off – I know what you are all thinking, they are really suffering out there! You’d be right life is tough. After losing three Frisbees to the strong undercurrent of the sea we headed back to the hotel for a rest before lunch. For lunch we were eating our own catch from the night before it was fabulous (even Loz enjoyed it). I have to admit I felt it would have been a crime not to enjoy a Lobster so I, for a measly £6, I decided to partake and it was good. After lunch we were heading back to Freetown for me to have a meeting with the development board, and in normal fashion we had a flat tyre, Pa Jalloh was suggesting sabotage, since he refused to park earlier in the day. Bad times! After another 30minute breakdown we were back on track. My meeting went smoothly and after just an hour I came out feeling well happy about what had gone on. On arrival at Bishops Court we had just walked in the door and Claire and the Kids turned up. It was fun watching Loz the babysitter and Ben the youngest having a face pulling contest, of course Loz won but then he would even with his natural face! We finished the day in the Diocesan Office and a small computer fix.
Wednesday 12th
It was about time we got back to doing some real work so we got on board the Green Machine and headed for Moyamba a school that has already been mentioned in this blog. It took us about 4 hours since the roads where bad but we finally arrive. We were greeted by all the children sitting outside and we had a lovely time. We had an opportunity to introduce ourselves which we duly did and they did some cultural dancing for us. It is great to see them as young as 5 dancing around in cultural dress. After this we headed back to the Guest House for some lunch and a relaxing afternoon. In the evening all the teachers came to share a meal with us. It was a shared plate of Cassava Leaf. It was a lovely meal; we in true English fashion used spoons while the local’s dag in with the hands. It really is a sight worth seeing.
Tuesday 11 November 2008
5th, 6th, 7th November
Wednesday 5th November
I can’t believe I am already writing blogs for November, the time has flown by but there you go! We are of course still in the middle of our days off and the plan for Wednesday was to go off to Kent beach with Claire, Ronnie and the family, unfortunately little Ben was pretty sick so they decided not to go but since we had it in mind we thought we might as well enjoy it. We got Pa Jalloh to come and collect us around 10am and we set off. When I arrived I was amazed. It is a stunning unspoilt beach; the truth is in most countries it would have been used as the local tourist area. We swam in the sea for a couple of hours then went on a walk up the beach to the next bay. Another unspoilt beach this one we had completely to ourselves it felt really bizarre. We sat there for a while reading until the sun got to hot, then we headed back to the car. On arrival back at the house we noticed just how much sun we had caught, we were both pretty red. The new in joke involves us being the ‘red man’ instead of the ‘white man’ we were originally, the locals think it is hilarious.
Thursday 6th
Thursday morning we started the day in the office doing bit and pieces of work until the electricity went off, this is because Comium which is the telephone company who supply the ‘light’ where having a problem with their generator (Such a problem it is Saturday when I am writing this and it is still down). So to elevate the pain of not having so much to do we went over to seafarers for lunch and that turned into us having a couple of beers too. A pretty quiet day all in all!
Friday 7th
Friday morning we spent doing a couple of necessary jobs like collecting money from Western Union. This was fantastic as we were both getting towards the end of our supply. I think the girl at the counter must have had a bit of a thing for our Lozza as she forgot to do all the security procedures with him, sweet really! We then went off to do abit of shopping both at the supermarket and in the markets. We finally bought some of the football shirts we had seen, I got an AC Milan shirt since you won’t believe it but they don’t have Boro shirts here. We finished our morning at Mamasu restaurant.
We headed back to the house after lunch to get ready for our night out- it takes Loz ages to put his face on. To assist in getting up for the night we put on a few tunes and had a beer or two, then we ran out of beer so we had to move on to the wine. I have a feeling this is where it all started to go wrong for Loz! We left the house at 8ish and headed to D’s Bezzar for a drink. As we arrive the DJ came running over to talk about football as he always does and then continue to shout out that each song he played was for the Boro fan in the establishment. Good fun really! We then headed up to Wilberforce to meet with Phina and the illusive Stephen (the boyfriend). Of course she is a girl so we were stood around waiting for twenty minutes which seems fairly standard. We then moved onto the Officers Mess this is a club set up for all army folk to meet and relax, it was fantastic and cheap. We were introduced to some of the captains and commanders, which led to pretty interesting conversation. We had taken Fatta and Joseph with us and bless they looked so out of place almost scared but they got into the swing of things. Next was to Dumas a locals bar in Lumley, essentially it is someone’s house but with a tiny structure in front of the entrance which serves beer. By this time Loz had already had got to the point where he was feeling the pace. He was struggling to stay awake but wanted to power through to see the club ‘Old skool’ On arrival at the club we all jumped out and Loz said that we couldn’t do it and needed a 20min nap then he would be in. After an hour I got worried and went out to see if all was ok. I suppose it was as he was sleeping like a baby in the back of the car and Mansaray the driver asleep in the front. When he finally roused he said that we should continue in the club and he would join us when he was ready. Of course it never happened he was completely done in (abit of work still needed before Uni I think) and continued to sleep by the time I persuaded Phina and Stephen to go home, we got to the car to find Mansaray asleep in the driver’s seat, Joseph sleeping in the passenger seat, Loz asleep in the back and Fatta asleep in the other back seat. I think we might have worn them out. Bless! The best part was the journey home because we got down Kissy Rd in just two minutes but not that surprising it was 4am.
I can’t believe I am already writing blogs for November, the time has flown by but there you go! We are of course still in the middle of our days off and the plan for Wednesday was to go off to Kent beach with Claire, Ronnie and the family, unfortunately little Ben was pretty sick so they decided not to go but since we had it in mind we thought we might as well enjoy it. We got Pa Jalloh to come and collect us around 10am and we set off. When I arrived I was amazed. It is a stunning unspoilt beach; the truth is in most countries it would have been used as the local tourist area. We swam in the sea for a couple of hours then went on a walk up the beach to the next bay. Another unspoilt beach this one we had completely to ourselves it felt really bizarre. We sat there for a while reading until the sun got to hot, then we headed back to the car. On arrival back at the house we noticed just how much sun we had caught, we were both pretty red. The new in joke involves us being the ‘red man’ instead of the ‘white man’ we were originally, the locals think it is hilarious.
Thursday 6th
Thursday morning we started the day in the office doing bit and pieces of work until the electricity went off, this is because Comium which is the telephone company who supply the ‘light’ where having a problem with their generator (Such a problem it is Saturday when I am writing this and it is still down). So to elevate the pain of not having so much to do we went over to seafarers for lunch and that turned into us having a couple of beers too. A pretty quiet day all in all!
Friday 7th
Friday morning we spent doing a couple of necessary jobs like collecting money from Western Union. This was fantastic as we were both getting towards the end of our supply. I think the girl at the counter must have had a bit of a thing for our Lozza as she forgot to do all the security procedures with him, sweet really! We then went off to do abit of shopping both at the supermarket and in the markets. We finally bought some of the football shirts we had seen, I got an AC Milan shirt since you won’t believe it but they don’t have Boro shirts here. We finished our morning at Mamasu restaurant.
We headed back to the house after lunch to get ready for our night out- it takes Loz ages to put his face on. To assist in getting up for the night we put on a few tunes and had a beer or two, then we ran out of beer so we had to move on to the wine. I have a feeling this is where it all started to go wrong for Loz! We left the house at 8ish and headed to D’s Bezzar for a drink. As we arrive the DJ came running over to talk about football as he always does and then continue to shout out that each song he played was for the Boro fan in the establishment. Good fun really! We then headed up to Wilberforce to meet with Phina and the illusive Stephen (the boyfriend). Of course she is a girl so we were stood around waiting for twenty minutes which seems fairly standard. We then moved onto the Officers Mess this is a club set up for all army folk to meet and relax, it was fantastic and cheap. We were introduced to some of the captains and commanders, which led to pretty interesting conversation. We had taken Fatta and Joseph with us and bless they looked so out of place almost scared but they got into the swing of things. Next was to Dumas a locals bar in Lumley, essentially it is someone’s house but with a tiny structure in front of the entrance which serves beer. By this time Loz had already had got to the point where he was feeling the pace. He was struggling to stay awake but wanted to power through to see the club ‘Old skool’ On arrival at the club we all jumped out and Loz said that we couldn’t do it and needed a 20min nap then he would be in. After an hour I got worried and went out to see if all was ok. I suppose it was as he was sleeping like a baby in the back of the car and Mansaray the driver asleep in the front. When he finally roused he said that we should continue in the club and he would join us when he was ready. Of course it never happened he was completely done in (abit of work still needed before Uni I think) and continued to sleep by the time I persuaded Phina and Stephen to go home, we got to the car to find Mansaray asleep in the driver’s seat, Joseph sleeping in the passenger seat, Loz asleep in the back and Fatta asleep in the other back seat. I think we might have worn them out. Bless! The best part was the journey home because we got down Kissy Rd in just two minutes but not that surprising it was 4am.
Thursday 6 November 2008
Monday November 3rd - Tuesday November 4th
Monday 3rd
I'm afraid everyone that Monday was, without a doubt, one of our most testing days in Sierra Leone so far.
We awoke earlier than we'd planned due to the intense heat in this stifling African climate, and proceeded to gently wander over to the diocesan office to begin some light work. Some serious light work later (i.e. i printed off some songs and planned my visit to the orphange the next day, and Parks caught up on his auditing masterpiece) and an early lunch seemed quite necessary. Some African food was consumed and some beer also, then some more beer. 6 hours and a few beers later (Parks, by the way, having met the Bishop's own personal supplier of beer had been forced to by a ridiculously cheap crate; this i hope explains our beer drinking predicament, anyway) an early dinner seemed quite necessary.
Some how, the evening, like a beer thief in the darkness, had crept up on us. Thus, we settled back (with a beer or three) to indulge in our familiar evening ritual of uno thoroughly exhausted by the events of the day.
Tuesday 4th
Tuesday began....slowly. Lazy Iain, on this rarest of occasions, was permitted to lie in bed whilst I set off for the Orphange at Kissy. On arrival, I was treated like a king returning from the battlefield ( as we always are,) as the children gathered together smiling, shouting and singing their songs of welcome loudly! I spent the morning, guitar in hand (reminding myself how my distinctly average i'd become,) teaching the children various songs which I was delighted to hear through the windows as I left for home later. The children were quick to pick up the songs, so I asked them to copy them down so they could learn them for next time. Anyway, it was a great morning, spent singing and dancing (the dancing competition was a highlight!) and I was sad to leave the kids, as potentially, it may be the last time I see them all.
Once home, Parksy and I switched places as he raced off to Annie Walsh and Holy Trinity Schools whilst I finished another book. Iain's visit to Annie Walsh was particularly successful as he was introduced to the new head teacher, meeting with her for half and hour or so.
We spent the afternoon at our local haunt, the Seafarers, enjoying the company of Claire and her kids. Claire is the ex-CMS treasurer and her stories of her time in Sierra Leone, before, during and after the war, are dramatic and torrid to say the least.
I'm afraid everyone that Monday was, without a doubt, one of our most testing days in Sierra Leone so far.
We awoke earlier than we'd planned due to the intense heat in this stifling African climate, and proceeded to gently wander over to the diocesan office to begin some light work. Some serious light work later (i.e. i printed off some songs and planned my visit to the orphange the next day, and Parks caught up on his auditing masterpiece) and an early lunch seemed quite necessary. Some African food was consumed and some beer also, then some more beer. 6 hours and a few beers later (Parks, by the way, having met the Bishop's own personal supplier of beer had been forced to by a ridiculously cheap crate; this i hope explains our beer drinking predicament, anyway) an early dinner seemed quite necessary.
Some how, the evening, like a beer thief in the darkness, had crept up on us. Thus, we settled back (with a beer or three) to indulge in our familiar evening ritual of uno thoroughly exhausted by the events of the day.
Tuesday 4th
Tuesday began....slowly. Lazy Iain, on this rarest of occasions, was permitted to lie in bed whilst I set off for the Orphange at Kissy. On arrival, I was treated like a king returning from the battlefield ( as we always are,) as the children gathered together smiling, shouting and singing their songs of welcome loudly! I spent the morning, guitar in hand (reminding myself how my distinctly average i'd become,) teaching the children various songs which I was delighted to hear through the windows as I left for home later. The children were quick to pick up the songs, so I asked them to copy them down so they could learn them for next time. Anyway, it was a great morning, spent singing and dancing (the dancing competition was a highlight!) and I was sad to leave the kids, as potentially, it may be the last time I see them all.
Once home, Parksy and I switched places as he raced off to Annie Walsh and Holy Trinity Schools whilst I finished another book. Iain's visit to Annie Walsh was particularly successful as he was introduced to the new head teacher, meeting with her for half and hour or so.
We spent the afternoon at our local haunt, the Seafarers, enjoying the company of Claire and her kids. Claire is the ex-CMS treasurer and her stories of her time in Sierra Leone, before, during and after the war, are dramatic and torrid to say the least.
Monday 3 November 2008
Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd November
As we entered into the third calander month of our time in Sierra Leone we were both feeling pretty happy with what we had achieved so far. The week coming however as you may already of read was a week for catching up on paperwork and having some well earned rest. Saturday started exactly that way for one of us, not mentioning any names but one of us may have been able to sleep in till 10am. The other one of us had a message from the Bishop at 7.45am to go to his house for a quick chat about the weekend coming and to try on a new alb, since Mark took his back accidentially. Its not like the one of us who had to go is jealous or anything but he definately feels the other is a lazy boy!
We then spent some time talking over what to do this week. We decided that I would continue with some of the report writing while Loz (you may now know who is who in the above senario) was going to spend sometime in the orphanage at Kissy. We would finish with a two day holiday to Lakka a beautiful unspoilt beach just off the south coast of Freetown. You may already have read about that two. We intend on spending some time sunbathing and then going out fishing with one of the locals. Making you jealous yet??
Anyway back to saturday, we had asked Fatta to do the cooking for our evening meal. He made a wonderful african stew (I think you would have loved it Dunc I'm being taught how to cook it so that I can make a batch for your folks) The afternoon involved a short trip to the diocesan office to do alittle work and check on the internet. Later I had to go off for a confirmation service while Lozza relaxed on the balcony. The service at All Saints, Kissy Road was lovely with 19 candidates and I was back home to enjoy the evening meal with two beers(a gift from the parish), I was so generous I even gave Loz one.
On Sunday we went off to Bishop Crowther Memorial Church, it was an Africana Sunday service, this meant that all the hymns and sermon was in Kreol, amazingly we understood most of it which is a good sign, if only we had the confidence to speak more of it. During the service we were welcomed and then I was able to present a computer (I have photos Big man) a gift that the church really apprieciated. Lozza read one of the lessons, fortunately for him this was in English.
After the sevice we headed back for a quick change and then we went to meet the West Wittering group. They were due to leave their hotel at 3pm in time to board the ferry, we got to spend half an hour with them and then they left, they should be back in England by now. It just happened that the hotel was right on Lumley beach, so after much deliberation as you can imagine(about two seconds) we decided to have a little dip. We took two frisbys with us, thinking they float we were chucking them round in the sea. We soon discovered they didn't float. The first went down very quickly the second lasted maybe 20minutes. Sadly we then had nothing. We continued spending time in the sea just enjoying relaxing and about 40minutes later Loz yelled the loudest cry ever, I thought 'oh no he has been bitten', not so out of the water popped the young man with one of the frisbys a miricule some might call it! Eventually we lost it and finally decided enough was enough and headed home, first calling at the supermarket for supplies and finishing the evening on the balcony with a game of Uno, what a remarkable change in events.
We then spent some time talking over what to do this week. We decided that I would continue with some of the report writing while Loz (you may now know who is who in the above senario) was going to spend sometime in the orphanage at Kissy. We would finish with a two day holiday to Lakka a beautiful unspoilt beach just off the south coast of Freetown. You may already have read about that two. We intend on spending some time sunbathing and then going out fishing with one of the locals. Making you jealous yet??
Anyway back to saturday, we had asked Fatta to do the cooking for our evening meal. He made a wonderful african stew (I think you would have loved it Dunc I'm being taught how to cook it so that I can make a batch for your folks) The afternoon involved a short trip to the diocesan office to do alittle work and check on the internet. Later I had to go off for a confirmation service while Lozza relaxed on the balcony. The service at All Saints, Kissy Road was lovely with 19 candidates and I was back home to enjoy the evening meal with two beers(a gift from the parish), I was so generous I even gave Loz one.
On Sunday we went off to Bishop Crowther Memorial Church, it was an Africana Sunday service, this meant that all the hymns and sermon was in Kreol, amazingly we understood most of it which is a good sign, if only we had the confidence to speak more of it. During the service we were welcomed and then I was able to present a computer (I have photos Big man) a gift that the church really apprieciated. Lozza read one of the lessons, fortunately for him this was in English.
After the sevice we headed back for a quick change and then we went to meet the West Wittering group. They were due to leave their hotel at 3pm in time to board the ferry, we got to spend half an hour with them and then they left, they should be back in England by now. It just happened that the hotel was right on Lumley beach, so after much deliberation as you can imagine(about two seconds) we decided to have a little dip. We took two frisbys with us, thinking they float we were chucking them round in the sea. We soon discovered they didn't float. The first went down very quickly the second lasted maybe 20minutes. Sadly we then had nothing. We continued spending time in the sea just enjoying relaxing and about 40minutes later Loz yelled the loudest cry ever, I thought 'oh no he has been bitten', not so out of the water popped the young man with one of the frisbys a miricule some might call it! Eventually we lost it and finally decided enough was enough and headed home, first calling at the supermarket for supplies and finishing the evening on the balcony with a game of Uno, what a remarkable change in events.
Thursday 30th and Friday 31st October
Thursday 30th
We awoke to the sound of the alarm at 3.30am.....less than happy. However, with a bus to catch, and the thought of Freetown ahead of us; we were out of the “Sahara” hotel door by 4am. After a short walk through the darkened streets of Bo we reached the bus and clambered aboard. By the grace of god, the seats we’d reserved were, in fact, still reserved and we soon collapsed at the front of the very cramped bus. Surprisingly the journey was uneventful. We weren’t hassled, weren’t bothered, and we reached our beloved Freetown by 10.30am. The highlight of the journey for me was my inspirational decision to swap seats with Parksy before we left Bo. In true African fashion, the woman sitting opposite Iain had four or so roosters in a plastic bag. At day break, the cocks crowed, we both experienced that one. Yet throughout the journey, the bag and its contents smelled absolutely rank. I was by a window with a constant supply of sweet fresh air, Parksy on the other hand, wasn’t.
Absolutely shattered by the journey we set about settling back into casa de Parks before Mark, fresh from his two day holiday at Lakka beach, rustled up a Cameroonian delicacy for dinner. Awesome!
Friday 31st
Official school work won’t begin again until our trip to Bo in 10 days, so I’m afraid, you’ll all have to prepare yourselves for some blogging which primarily involves relaxing, chillaxing, and pre-dominantly hitting the beach Parks and Loz style. Control all jealousy please!
Friday morning was a relaxed one (surprise surprise) and we spent it at home, sorting out the lodge and preparing for Mark’s departure after lunch. Once we’d said our goodbyes to Mark, for the second time in a month, myself and Parksy set off on a stroll across Freetown to meet Katie – an American NGO banker who we’d met a few days earlier in Bo. We indulged ourselves with a few beers over lunch at Cafe de la Rose, one of our Freetown haunts, before Katie arrived at 1pm. A wonderful meal was had, good company, good HOT food, and most importantly a good amount of beer consumed in true “British style” by myself and Parks. Katie had a diet coke. Katie if you read this, we both hope you arrived back to London safely.
After a few more beers, a long walk home, a deep and meaningful discussion about the problems in Sierra Leone (inspired by my “failure of democracy” theory) and, of course, some Uno, and we were both in need of a long, long sleep to catch up on those hours missed two nights previously.
We awoke to the sound of the alarm at 3.30am.....less than happy. However, with a bus to catch, and the thought of Freetown ahead of us; we were out of the “Sahara” hotel door by 4am. After a short walk through the darkened streets of Bo we reached the bus and clambered aboard. By the grace of god, the seats we’d reserved were, in fact, still reserved and we soon collapsed at the front of the very cramped bus. Surprisingly the journey was uneventful. We weren’t hassled, weren’t bothered, and we reached our beloved Freetown by 10.30am. The highlight of the journey for me was my inspirational decision to swap seats with Parksy before we left Bo. In true African fashion, the woman sitting opposite Iain had four or so roosters in a plastic bag. At day break, the cocks crowed, we both experienced that one. Yet throughout the journey, the bag and its contents smelled absolutely rank. I was by a window with a constant supply of sweet fresh air, Parksy on the other hand, wasn’t.
Absolutely shattered by the journey we set about settling back into casa de Parks before Mark, fresh from his two day holiday at Lakka beach, rustled up a Cameroonian delicacy for dinner. Awesome!
Friday 31st
Official school work won’t begin again until our trip to Bo in 10 days, so I’m afraid, you’ll all have to prepare yourselves for some blogging which primarily involves relaxing, chillaxing, and pre-dominantly hitting the beach Parks and Loz style. Control all jealousy please!
Friday morning was a relaxed one (surprise surprise) and we spent it at home, sorting out the lodge and preparing for Mark’s departure after lunch. Once we’d said our goodbyes to Mark, for the second time in a month, myself and Parksy set off on a stroll across Freetown to meet Katie – an American NGO banker who we’d met a few days earlier in Bo. We indulged ourselves with a few beers over lunch at Cafe de la Rose, one of our Freetown haunts, before Katie arrived at 1pm. A wonderful meal was had, good company, good HOT food, and most importantly a good amount of beer consumed in true “British style” by myself and Parks. Katie had a diet coke. Katie if you read this, we both hope you arrived back to London safely.
After a few more beers, a long walk home, a deep and meaningful discussion about the problems in Sierra Leone (inspired by my “failure of democracy” theory) and, of course, some Uno, and we were both in need of a long, long sleep to catch up on those hours missed two nights previously.
Thursday 30 October 2008
A crazy week in Freetown then Bo – 22nd till 30th October
This is just a brief outline of the things we have done and achieved over the last 9 days. I’m really sorry to those of you who enjoy the humour and constant banter but since we are now so far behind we can’t be bothered, so there!!!!
Wednesday 22nd
We were with HT school and first visited the orphanage. HT gave a mountain of presents and was fantastic to see such big smiles
We then called at the Bishop Crowther Nursery and finished the morning at the train museum. You have never seen anything like it. Three carriages and one engine! That is a museum, brilliant!!!
The afternoon was greeted with lunch at Seafarers, the wonderful Eunice on fire as ever with the cooking. Myself and Mark went for a meeting with the development team and Lozza took care of Holy Trinity. Nice Boy!
Thursday 23rd
While some of us worked hard taking the HT school to Schlenker, a school in the province, two of the group, Loz and Mark went on a jolly first to set up the link with Aberdeen, they are due to be joint to Wivelsfield and then off to Kent beach. It must have been really hard work. I can’t complain really, we were welcomed at Schlenker with food, then played volleyball (we got beat bad), then we watched a cultural dance show – which was fantastic and finally we ate again.
We all finished the day with the wonderful Canon Coker’s and his wife Lucy. Another fine meal and then off to bed, it had been a long day!
Friday 24th
Again we started the day with HT. Today was the foundation day at Bishop Johnson their link school. Our job was just to be present but HT teachers and students had to make a statement, they did this very well. Then it was time for us to leave them. Myself, Loz and Mark joined Bishop Julius in the trip to Bo. In classic style we stopped on route for us – in the bishops words – to loosen our throats- two beers did this nicely! We should have realize this would happen when there was a cooler the size of a coffin in the boot of the car. It was full of Star Beer for the English and Heineken for the Sierra Leonean’s. We arrived at the Hotel around 5ish. It was a newly built complex which was maybe the best hotel we have stayed in, good job since we were there for 6 nights.
Saturday 25th
Saturday was a lazy lazy day. We even started it with Uno in bed(that is when you know you haven’t achieved much). We met with a group from West Wittering for lunch (they are the group who paid for the building of a school in Bo) and we finished with an evening meal in Madame Woki’s. The meal was with the West African Bishops. It was great to see the Bishop of Liberia and Mother Hart again, and to see the others of our link dioceses of Cameroon, Gambia and Guinea. There were also 4 Bishops from Ghana including the Archbishop. An interesting experience!
Sunday 26th
Sunday was the big day for the Diocese of Bo, it was today that Canon Tucker was to be consecrated the 3rd Bishop of Bo. The service was a great success. It lasted just 5 hours (Duncan bet your sad you missed out!) and I had the pleasure of pledging £500 on behalf of the diocese of Chichester even after £500 was already pledged, I just hope we can find it. Our next move was to the Bishops House for lunch. A gathering of all the local clergy and partners of the diocese! We had a well deserved rest in the afternoon and finished our day with our final meal with the Bishops, before they headed off to their relative countries.
(Loz’s blog)
Monday 27th
After Sunday’s service the entire entourage from Freetown were in need of a relaxing day. We woke wearily after the excitement of Sunday’s service and proceeded to head into the Bo Market. We visited the claustrophobic market, weaving in between various buildings, before heading to the local seamstress, or rather, seemster, witnessing his command of the home-made loom.
From lunch onwards, we opened the Bishop’s coffin and proceeded to drink the contents. As the day of consumption continued many fell by the wayside. First Mark (in desperate need of a nap,) then Parks (once again portraying his girly drinking skills.) I, powered through the drinking pain with the bishop, thus restoring British drinking pride. The day came to a close as we all sat in deep discussion with the Bishop of Freetown, discussing topics as deep as Politics and as light as Iain’s stomach…literally.
Tuesday 28th
We spent the morning at the Diocesan Office organizing our impending visit of the schools in Bo Diocese. We came to the conclusion that we would spend time in Bo from November 12th to 23rd (take note everyone….we’ll have very average internet possibilities!)
With the work done for the day, we settled back to battle it out back at the hotel on the Uno field. 1 hour later after much fierce fighting, it appeared that I would dominate the day of Uno, but then, out of no-where, it happened! Parks hit me! First a plus 2, then a plus four, then a skip ago, then a plus two, then finally, with a wry, demonic smile, he hit me again with a final, brutal, plus four. My score 228 – a new Uno world record – for a variety of reasons, I felt sick….
Anyway, after a busy morning at the office and a terrible afternoon at the cards table, we walked into town to buy some street food for dinner. My spirits were raised, and Parksy continued to gloat about his triumph, he told me last month and I quote “I’m a bad loser, and a bad winner…” I still have NO idea what he was on about.
Wednesday 29th
We were up early to attend the grand opening of the first ever Anglican Junior Secondary school in Bo Diocese, which was greatly funded by the Village of West Wittering in Sussex. In firm mood that we are now Sierra Leonie’s we set off on a walk to the school. On arrival events began. 6 hours later, a mixture of a brief dedication, a traditional libation and an exciting cultural show saw to the fact that we had a thoroughly enjoyable day! Definite highlight was the school drama group’s own Cinderella inspired production! After a long and hot day we booked our bus return to Freetown leaving at 4am in the morning….yes you heard right, 4am! Before heading back to the hotel to get an early night!
Wednesday 22nd
We were with HT school and first visited the orphanage. HT gave a mountain of presents and was fantastic to see such big smiles
We then called at the Bishop Crowther Nursery and finished the morning at the train museum. You have never seen anything like it. Three carriages and one engine! That is a museum, brilliant!!!
The afternoon was greeted with lunch at Seafarers, the wonderful Eunice on fire as ever with the cooking. Myself and Mark went for a meeting with the development team and Lozza took care of Holy Trinity. Nice Boy!
Thursday 23rd
While some of us worked hard taking the HT school to Schlenker, a school in the province, two of the group, Loz and Mark went on a jolly first to set up the link with Aberdeen, they are due to be joint to Wivelsfield and then off to Kent beach. It must have been really hard work. I can’t complain really, we were welcomed at Schlenker with food, then played volleyball (we got beat bad), then we watched a cultural dance show – which was fantastic and finally we ate again.
We all finished the day with the wonderful Canon Coker’s and his wife Lucy. Another fine meal and then off to bed, it had been a long day!
Friday 24th
Again we started the day with HT. Today was the foundation day at Bishop Johnson their link school. Our job was just to be present but HT teachers and students had to make a statement, they did this very well. Then it was time for us to leave them. Myself, Loz and Mark joined Bishop Julius in the trip to Bo. In classic style we stopped on route for us – in the bishops words – to loosen our throats- two beers did this nicely! We should have realize this would happen when there was a cooler the size of a coffin in the boot of the car. It was full of Star Beer for the English and Heineken for the Sierra Leonean’s. We arrived at the Hotel around 5ish. It was a newly built complex which was maybe the best hotel we have stayed in, good job since we were there for 6 nights.
Saturday 25th
Saturday was a lazy lazy day. We even started it with Uno in bed(that is when you know you haven’t achieved much). We met with a group from West Wittering for lunch (they are the group who paid for the building of a school in Bo) and we finished with an evening meal in Madame Woki’s. The meal was with the West African Bishops. It was great to see the Bishop of Liberia and Mother Hart again, and to see the others of our link dioceses of Cameroon, Gambia and Guinea. There were also 4 Bishops from Ghana including the Archbishop. An interesting experience!
Sunday 26th
Sunday was the big day for the Diocese of Bo, it was today that Canon Tucker was to be consecrated the 3rd Bishop of Bo. The service was a great success. It lasted just 5 hours (Duncan bet your sad you missed out!) and I had the pleasure of pledging £500 on behalf of the diocese of Chichester even after £500 was already pledged, I just hope we can find it. Our next move was to the Bishops House for lunch. A gathering of all the local clergy and partners of the diocese! We had a well deserved rest in the afternoon and finished our day with our final meal with the Bishops, before they headed off to their relative countries.
(Loz’s blog)
Monday 27th
After Sunday’s service the entire entourage from Freetown were in need of a relaxing day. We woke wearily after the excitement of Sunday’s service and proceeded to head into the Bo Market. We visited the claustrophobic market, weaving in between various buildings, before heading to the local seamstress, or rather, seemster, witnessing his command of the home-made loom.
From lunch onwards, we opened the Bishop’s coffin and proceeded to drink the contents. As the day of consumption continued many fell by the wayside. First Mark (in desperate need of a nap,) then Parks (once again portraying his girly drinking skills.) I, powered through the drinking pain with the bishop, thus restoring British drinking pride. The day came to a close as we all sat in deep discussion with the Bishop of Freetown, discussing topics as deep as Politics and as light as Iain’s stomach…literally.
Tuesday 28th
We spent the morning at the Diocesan Office organizing our impending visit of the schools in Bo Diocese. We came to the conclusion that we would spend time in Bo from November 12th to 23rd (take note everyone….we’ll have very average internet possibilities!)
With the work done for the day, we settled back to battle it out back at the hotel on the Uno field. 1 hour later after much fierce fighting, it appeared that I would dominate the day of Uno, but then, out of no-where, it happened! Parks hit me! First a plus 2, then a plus four, then a skip ago, then a plus two, then finally, with a wry, demonic smile, he hit me again with a final, brutal, plus four. My score 228 – a new Uno world record – for a variety of reasons, I felt sick….
Anyway, after a busy morning at the office and a terrible afternoon at the cards table, we walked into town to buy some street food for dinner. My spirits were raised, and Parksy continued to gloat about his triumph, he told me last month and I quote “I’m a bad loser, and a bad winner…” I still have NO idea what he was on about.
Wednesday 29th
We were up early to attend the grand opening of the first ever Anglican Junior Secondary school in Bo Diocese, which was greatly funded by the Village of West Wittering in Sussex. In firm mood that we are now Sierra Leonie’s we set off on a walk to the school. On arrival events began. 6 hours later, a mixture of a brief dedication, a traditional libation and an exciting cultural show saw to the fact that we had a thoroughly enjoyable day! Definite highlight was the school drama group’s own Cinderella inspired production! After a long and hot day we booked our bus return to Freetown leaving at 4am in the morning….yes you heard right, 4am! Before heading back to the hotel to get an early night!
20th and 21st October
20th – October
And so our lives have become completely consumed by the visit of Holy Trinity School, Crawley, to our beautiful Sierra Leone. After greeting the new arrivals on Sunday night, Iain drove to meet the team at their hotel (hotel 5/10,) located in Kissy. I, on the other hand, took a trip into the centre of Freetown to confront the rude and obnoxious Immigrations Officer who Master Parks had vented his anger upon the day before. Parksy, in contrast, spent the morning helping the Holy T teachers to budget and organize their trip ahead. When I arrived at hotel 5/10 such was my story of daring and intrigue, that no-one, let alone myself, could believe it! To cut a long and irritating story short, I spent a lot of time arguing with the egotistic Officer and a lot of time waiting around. He wanted a bribe and I, politely, confirmed I was having none of it....we eventually came to the conclusion that I’d have to come back the next day for our passports, by this time, they would have gone through the huuuuge and lengthy process of being stamped!
Iain spent his afternoon with the school as they attempted to register at the British High Commission, they were, also unsuccessful! However, we then experienced a sudden change in fortune during our visit to the Special Court of Sierra Leone. The visit was extremely interesting as we all had the chance to expand our knowledge of the history behind Sierra Leone’s conflict (probably boring to some, but since I’m a future history undergraduate I found it quality......and I know Parksy did as well, so, at least some of us were paying attention.) The court was established to put on trial all of the leaders of various armed forces, and the charges range greatly, however the underlying theme is that of brutal atrocities – crimes against humanity. I could meander on about the visit all day, but instead I shall just say that our knowledge of the history behind the rebel incursion is now greater than most of the Sierra Leonie people. After dropping off the HT gang, we set off for home.
21st
Tuesday.
My morning was another glorious one. An hour trapped in the stuffy immigrations office before, finally, receiving our stamped passports. By this time, I was growing so impatient and ready to kill that it was impossible to even smile as I received the passports. Then, a short time organizing Mark’s helicopter ticket at CAS travel, before heading for home, much relieved. Iain spent his morning with Holy Trinity as they prepared to meet the Bishop and their link school Bishop Johnson Memorial. Apparently the morning was a success as HT were greeted warmly by BJM, and extremely pleased by the presence of the Bishop.
We all enjoyed a lunch at the Seafarers of Jalloph rice (usually for special occasions,) and our favourite cook Unis was particularly pleased by the appearance of myself and Iain. Just so you know Dunc, since you’ve deserted us, you’re no longer Unis’ favourite......I’m not even sure if she remembers your name...or Iain’s even....
After lunch I arranged to meet Iain and the Holy Trinity team at the Chimpanzee sanctuary, up in the hills of Regent by 4pm. Parks spent the beginning of his afternoon by escorting the school back to their hotel so that they could get changed and “freshen up.” As it turned out I didn’t end up leaving the compound until 3pm, and worrying that I wouldn’t be allowed into the sanctuary after 4pm, I told old Pah Jalloh to “drive like the wind!” Well well.....not such a good idea as it turned out. You see, Old Pah Jalloh may be young at heart, but looks to be at least 90 years old, and it’s safe to say I think that his decision making skills have faded away over the years.....dramatically. The highlight of the journey was certainly his attempt to overtake 4 vehicles on an uphill stretch, just before a sharp bend in the road. Unfortunately, as we sailed passed the 2nd car we were greeted warmly by the sweet sound of various horns honking up ahead. Before I even had the chance to contemplate putting on my seatbelt, incidentally the car didn’t have one, Pah (with a shout and various cursings in Kreole) had slammed on the breaks sending both of us careering forwards. By 4pm, a little shaky, I reached the sanctuary, and it seemed Iain had also had an interesting journey; he on the other hand, was bleeding badly. After the teary eyed lad had recovered, I managed to decipher that one of the Holy Trinity kids had lent forwards during their Poddah poddah ride, crushing Iain against the seat in front. Anyway, once the leader of the Holy Trinity team had given Iain a plaster to put on his pinky finger, we set off on a tour of the sanctuary. Unfortunately for Iain his painful adventures of the day were not yet over! Blissfully observing the chimpanzees as they played and fed, Iain was struck viciously by a pebble right the head. One of the Chimpanzee’s, clearly threatened by Iain’s manly nature (obvious to all!) had hurled a pebble at poor Parksy’s head. Iain managed to catch the next stone thus taunting the chimp, however the first throw had left its mark on the man from Middlesbrough and, I’m afraid everyone, he may never recover.
After a classic time at the sanctuary, I set off to collect Mark from the heliport, taking the time to fill him in on the experiences of the last 2 weeks.
And so our lives have become completely consumed by the visit of Holy Trinity School, Crawley, to our beautiful Sierra Leone. After greeting the new arrivals on Sunday night, Iain drove to meet the team at their hotel (hotel 5/10,) located in Kissy. I, on the other hand, took a trip into the centre of Freetown to confront the rude and obnoxious Immigrations Officer who Master Parks had vented his anger upon the day before. Parksy, in contrast, spent the morning helping the Holy T teachers to budget and organize their trip ahead. When I arrived at hotel 5/10 such was my story of daring and intrigue, that no-one, let alone myself, could believe it! To cut a long and irritating story short, I spent a lot of time arguing with the egotistic Officer and a lot of time waiting around. He wanted a bribe and I, politely, confirmed I was having none of it....we eventually came to the conclusion that I’d have to come back the next day for our passports, by this time, they would have gone through the huuuuge and lengthy process of being stamped!
Iain spent his afternoon with the school as they attempted to register at the British High Commission, they were, also unsuccessful! However, we then experienced a sudden change in fortune during our visit to the Special Court of Sierra Leone. The visit was extremely interesting as we all had the chance to expand our knowledge of the history behind Sierra Leone’s conflict (probably boring to some, but since I’m a future history undergraduate I found it quality......and I know Parksy did as well, so, at least some of us were paying attention.) The court was established to put on trial all of the leaders of various armed forces, and the charges range greatly, however the underlying theme is that of brutal atrocities – crimes against humanity. I could meander on about the visit all day, but instead I shall just say that our knowledge of the history behind the rebel incursion is now greater than most of the Sierra Leonie people. After dropping off the HT gang, we set off for home.
21st
Tuesday.
My morning was another glorious one. An hour trapped in the stuffy immigrations office before, finally, receiving our stamped passports. By this time, I was growing so impatient and ready to kill that it was impossible to even smile as I received the passports. Then, a short time organizing Mark’s helicopter ticket at CAS travel, before heading for home, much relieved. Iain spent his morning with Holy Trinity as they prepared to meet the Bishop and their link school Bishop Johnson Memorial. Apparently the morning was a success as HT were greeted warmly by BJM, and extremely pleased by the presence of the Bishop.
We all enjoyed a lunch at the Seafarers of Jalloph rice (usually for special occasions,) and our favourite cook Unis was particularly pleased by the appearance of myself and Iain. Just so you know Dunc, since you’ve deserted us, you’re no longer Unis’ favourite......I’m not even sure if she remembers your name...or Iain’s even....
After lunch I arranged to meet Iain and the Holy Trinity team at the Chimpanzee sanctuary, up in the hills of Regent by 4pm. Parks spent the beginning of his afternoon by escorting the school back to their hotel so that they could get changed and “freshen up.” As it turned out I didn’t end up leaving the compound until 3pm, and worrying that I wouldn’t be allowed into the sanctuary after 4pm, I told old Pah Jalloh to “drive like the wind!” Well well.....not such a good idea as it turned out. You see, Old Pah Jalloh may be young at heart, but looks to be at least 90 years old, and it’s safe to say I think that his decision making skills have faded away over the years.....dramatically. The highlight of the journey was certainly his attempt to overtake 4 vehicles on an uphill stretch, just before a sharp bend in the road. Unfortunately, as we sailed passed the 2nd car we were greeted warmly by the sweet sound of various horns honking up ahead. Before I even had the chance to contemplate putting on my seatbelt, incidentally the car didn’t have one, Pah (with a shout and various cursings in Kreole) had slammed on the breaks sending both of us careering forwards. By 4pm, a little shaky, I reached the sanctuary, and it seemed Iain had also had an interesting journey; he on the other hand, was bleeding badly. After the teary eyed lad had recovered, I managed to decipher that one of the Holy Trinity kids had lent forwards during their Poddah poddah ride, crushing Iain against the seat in front. Anyway, once the leader of the Holy Trinity team had given Iain a plaster to put on his pinky finger, we set off on a tour of the sanctuary. Unfortunately for Iain his painful adventures of the day were not yet over! Blissfully observing the chimpanzees as they played and fed, Iain was struck viciously by a pebble right the head. One of the Chimpanzee’s, clearly threatened by Iain’s manly nature (obvious to all!) had hurled a pebble at poor Parksy’s head. Iain managed to catch the next stone thus taunting the chimp, however the first throw had left its mark on the man from Middlesbrough and, I’m afraid everyone, he may never recover.
After a classic time at the sanctuary, I set off to collect Mark from the heliport, taking the time to fill him in on the experiences of the last 2 weeks.
Monday 20 October 2008
Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October
Saturday started with a bang at the door. Mr Jalloh had sent Pa Jalloh to collect us for football practice. Yeah you read that right football practice. We jumped out of bed through on some sports clothing grabbed some bread and we were on our way. A feeling of excitement and nervousness was on both of our faces as we were getting close to Wellington, the village where Mr Jalloh lived. We had talked about playing for a while now but never really thought it would happen. We first went to Mr Jalloh’s house and were given football boots to wear. Mine a classic pair of bright orange J’s and Loz’s a pair of size 8 adidas, funny since he is a 10 and a half. We then proceeded to the pitch, I say pitch it was really just an open space that had goals at either end. It had cleared by the lads and community centre team but was still mostly dirt and rock.
As we got out of the car there was a huge buzz around the place mostly because two white weaklings had come to compete with these muscular black boys. They were all called together and told that they weren’t allowed to ‘drop us’ there words not ours. We tried to laugh it off but were quite relieved inside (The ground would have meant much pain). The game started and after watching the first half an hour we could see the skill these boys possessed was a good standard. I was called over first to go on the pitch. I replaced a boy called Goochie, he had missed a penalty so that gave me heart. I started ok and so Lozza was on, he was on the opposing side. I knew he was on because his first act was to come over and kick me. Thanks mate!!! The game continued at a quick pace with end to end attacks then in one glorious minute the first white man ever to score for FC Rald took place. A wonderful first touch out of the feet then a placed shot in the bottom right hand corner, what a goal! The crowd erupted in conversation; they couldn’t believe what they had just witnessed. The game finally finished with a 9-8 victory to my boys in blue. Get in there! We had a wonderful morning and finished with lunch at Mr Jalloh’s. His wife had made his favourite foofoo(yes Hen that is what I said) and CrinCrin.
After heading back to the ranch we wnet to watch the football I won’t go into details, good team won yadda yadda, and poor Boro where robbed of a sure victory.
We finished the day going to a local priest’s house, The Revd Canon J Coker. They have recently been to England and where very keen to talk through some of our cultural differences. We had a lovely night talking, eating and drinking. It was just as we were thinking of leaving that the heavens opened. They kindly walked us back with umbrellas and it was off to bed for us.
Sunday morning we were due to go to a church called St Matthais, Lakka. I had heard that the place had an unspoilt beach so asked if the Bishop would allow us to see it in case we wanted to come back at the end of our trip.
It was a confirmation service, with 11 candidates for confirmation. It was a lovely little church packed to the rafters. The sermon was even given in Creol(the local language) and we understood most of it, pretty good for just five weeks here! We then headed to the beach to a hotel that a parishioner owns. It was probably in the most glorious setting we have both ever seen. There is no question we will be back. We negotiated a good price and were promised a fishing trip out in the Atlantic, you will hear about this again. Dunc sorry you didn’t get to see it mate!!!! They also fed us with fish caught earlier that morning and Jallof rice. Good for me as Loz still doesn’t like fish so I got two. In the usual fashion we were given plenty of beer, I think 6 each when we left. Good times! As we headed back to Bishops court Lozza came up with one of those pearling comments. He asked the Bishop, if Phina, his daughter was ok after the death of her batt, as this is what he had read in a text from her. Sadly what he didn’t notice was batt was for battery not bat as he had assumed. He is too embarrassed to speak at the current moment. Classic! We are now at the house relaxing before heading to meet the group from Holy Trinity, Crawley. They are due at 9ish so we will look forward to that.
As we got out of the car there was a huge buzz around the place mostly because two white weaklings had come to compete with these muscular black boys. They were all called together and told that they weren’t allowed to ‘drop us’ there words not ours. We tried to laugh it off but were quite relieved inside (The ground would have meant much pain). The game started and after watching the first half an hour we could see the skill these boys possessed was a good standard. I was called over first to go on the pitch. I replaced a boy called Goochie, he had missed a penalty so that gave me heart. I started ok and so Lozza was on, he was on the opposing side. I knew he was on because his first act was to come over and kick me. Thanks mate!!! The game continued at a quick pace with end to end attacks then in one glorious minute the first white man ever to score for FC Rald took place. A wonderful first touch out of the feet then a placed shot in the bottom right hand corner, what a goal! The crowd erupted in conversation; they couldn’t believe what they had just witnessed. The game finally finished with a 9-8 victory to my boys in blue. Get in there! We had a wonderful morning and finished with lunch at Mr Jalloh’s. His wife had made his favourite foofoo(yes Hen that is what I said) and CrinCrin.
After heading back to the ranch we wnet to watch the football I won’t go into details, good team won yadda yadda, and poor Boro where robbed of a sure victory.
We finished the day going to a local priest’s house, The Revd Canon J Coker. They have recently been to England and where very keen to talk through some of our cultural differences. We had a lovely night talking, eating and drinking. It was just as we were thinking of leaving that the heavens opened. They kindly walked us back with umbrellas and it was off to bed for us.
Sunday morning we were due to go to a church called St Matthais, Lakka. I had heard that the place had an unspoilt beach so asked if the Bishop would allow us to see it in case we wanted to come back at the end of our trip.
It was a confirmation service, with 11 candidates for confirmation. It was a lovely little church packed to the rafters. The sermon was even given in Creol(the local language) and we understood most of it, pretty good for just five weeks here! We then headed to the beach to a hotel that a parishioner owns. It was probably in the most glorious setting we have both ever seen. There is no question we will be back. We negotiated a good price and were promised a fishing trip out in the Atlantic, you will hear about this again. Dunc sorry you didn’t get to see it mate!!!! They also fed us with fish caught earlier that morning and Jallof rice. Good for me as Loz still doesn’t like fish so I got two. In the usual fashion we were given plenty of beer, I think 6 each when we left. Good times! As we headed back to Bishops court Lozza came up with one of those pearling comments. He asked the Bishop, if Phina, his daughter was ok after the death of her batt, as this is what he had read in a text from her. Sadly what he didn’t notice was batt was for battery not bat as he had assumed. He is too embarrassed to speak at the current moment. Classic! We are now at the house relaxing before heading to meet the group from Holy Trinity, Crawley. They are due at 9ish so we will look forward to that.
Friday 17th October
On Friday we continued to knuckle down to some school links work. We visited 11 schools starting off with two schools at Christchurch, where both head teachers were extremely welcoming and accommodating. We then continued on to St George’s Cathedral schools (made up of 5 schools) before finishing with St John’s Brookfield, both infant, and junior. The 1st set of schools is unfortunately located beneath a local church in what, I am sure, was meant originally to be the church hall. However, it is now made up of 10+ classrooms all poorly divided spilling noise and distraction onto each “separate” teaching environment. St John’s Brookfield is a similar set up, with many classes occupying a large hall. This of course is not ideal for any form of schooling. However, even with such bustle, noise and distraction here there is a strong sense of community and closeness surrounding these schools, which I am sure, is provided by living and working in such close quarters. Such communities give these schools great appeal to any school in England seeking a link to a school in Sierra Leone.
After a horrendously busy 3 days on the roll both myself, and Parksy were completely and utterly wrecked! We had planned an evening out with the Bishop’s daughter - Phina, yet fortunately the rain......how dare it!.......forced us to collapse into bed, thoroughly in need of a long night of rest. Just in case Master Parks forgets to mention it, Middlesbrough lost 5-0 today against Chelsea. Watching the match in the Seafarers and wearing his Borough shirt proudly, Parks held his head high as goal after goal by-passed the poor Borough keeper. Undoubtedly, it was difficult for Parks to take such an emotional battering. I tried to comfort him by mentioning that – “on the plus side mate, Beletti is in my fantasy football team, he scored, and kept a clean sheet eh?” Hearing this remark, Parks wandered upstairs and locked his bedroom door firmly........5 minutes later he emerged, eyes blood-shot and watery......he’d been crying the whole time.
After a horrendously busy 3 days on the roll both myself, and Parksy were completely and utterly wrecked! We had planned an evening out with the Bishop’s daughter - Phina, yet fortunately the rain......how dare it!.......forced us to collapse into bed, thoroughly in need of a long night of rest. Just in case Master Parks forgets to mention it, Middlesbrough lost 5-0 today against Chelsea. Watching the match in the Seafarers and wearing his Borough shirt proudly, Parks held his head high as goal after goal by-passed the poor Borough keeper. Undoubtedly, it was difficult for Parks to take such an emotional battering. I tried to comfort him by mentioning that – “on the plus side mate, Beletti is in my fantasy football team, he scored, and kept a clean sheet eh?” Hearing this remark, Parks wandered upstairs and locked his bedroom door firmly........5 minutes later he emerged, eyes blood-shot and watery......he’d been crying the whole time.
Thursday 16th October
After a busy working day on Wednesday, when the alarm rang at 6am the next day, neither myself, nor Parksy were particularly pleased. However, being the two stallions that we are, we mustered up all of our energy and prepared ourselves for a long trip inland to Makeni – Northern Sierra Leone. Midway through our breakfast of bread and various sweet sweet spreads; we opened our door to the 1st of our companions for the day – Rev Collier. Reverend Collier believes that he is in charge of most of the schools in the Port Loko district, and had taken it upon himself to take us around some of the schools in, and around, Makeni (not in Port Loko) – such a considerate man! At 7am Pah Jalloh arrived in the vehicle with two further guests for the day, the Diocesan Secretary (Rev Edmondson) and Rev Wright, the Chairman of the Diocesan Board of Anglican education. By 10am we had reached the first of the day’s schools - at Rogbere Junction. The school is located, as the name suggests, at the meeting place of various roads. Furthermore, an adjoining road to, and from Freetown, being well surfaced does suggest a perfect location for an international link between schools. However, although the school is in desperate need, with many children studying beneath the trees in makeshift (open-air) classrooms, it is unlikely that the school will obtain a link with a school in the Diocese of Chichester. Unfortunately, we have quickly learned that without an enthused Principle in Sierra Leone, a link with an English school will prove to be near impossible. In this case, the Principle is just temporary, holding the position until a suitable long-term replacement is chosen.
Much concerned by the lack of facilities at Rogbere we continued inland to Makeni. The school, linked with St Margaret’s - Angmering, has a promising future. The classrooms are not overcrowded, as is the case with many of the schools in Sierra Leone, and nearly all of the children have a seat, and a desk to accompany it. However, one concern that both myself and Iain had towards the schools, was the way in which the 5 year old pupils entered their classrooms. After acquiring a grappling hook and climbing rope from the local rock climber, each child proceeded to haul their way up the massive step outside. Joking aside, the half a metre step was a ridiculous site to behold, causing both myself and Iain to hold our breaths as each child attempted to climb back down.
After a brief lunchy of crackers......and more crackers, we set off for the last school of the day located at Masheka. The school is newly formed and in desperate need of attention. With nothing but a well providing water, and a building to house the kids, this project we believe will be an exciting development project for a school in the Diocese of Chichester. Unfortunately, the school was destroyed during the rebel incursion, however, it was once attended by the President of Sierra Leone and hopefully this will provide a platform for its return to prominence.
The day was extremely long, tiring and productive, and once we reached Freetown we were both in serious need of some shut eye!
Much concerned by the lack of facilities at Rogbere we continued inland to Makeni. The school, linked with St Margaret’s - Angmering, has a promising future. The classrooms are not overcrowded, as is the case with many of the schools in Sierra Leone, and nearly all of the children have a seat, and a desk to accompany it. However, one concern that both myself and Iain had towards the schools, was the way in which the 5 year old pupils entered their classrooms. After acquiring a grappling hook and climbing rope from the local rock climber, each child proceeded to haul their way up the massive step outside. Joking aside, the half a metre step was a ridiculous site to behold, causing both myself and Iain to hold our breaths as each child attempted to climb back down.
After a brief lunchy of crackers......and more crackers, we set off for the last school of the day located at Masheka. The school is newly formed and in desperate need of attention. With nothing but a well providing water, and a building to house the kids, this project we believe will be an exciting development project for a school in the Diocese of Chichester. Unfortunately, the school was destroyed during the rebel incursion, however, it was once attended by the President of Sierra Leone and hopefully this will provide a platform for its return to prominence.
The day was extremely long, tiring and productive, and once we reached Freetown we were both in serious need of some shut eye!
Friday 17 October 2008
Tuesday 14th and Wednesday 15th October
Tuesday started with a few little jobs to do. Mostly we aimed to get the all the details for the trip from Holy Trinity, Crawley sorted. It seems this was achieved easier than I thought. With one call to the Hotel 5.10 by the Bishop and a trip to the airport transfer office in town we were set. A very happy and easy solution! We then continued to finish off some small parts of admin, I won’t bore you with the details. Then the important part of the day arrived and we were off to the beach. We took the ball and within minutes of arrival we were playing a game of piggy in the middle with two local kids Ali and Antony. They were nice boys and didn’t speak much English. I reckon the older of the boys had the making of a good footballer(he must have megged Loz about 30 times, needless to say he cried alot when we got home!!)
A few days ago we went out asking the prices for some large fans and a mattress for the house. So while we were at the beach we asked Fatta to go off and get the African price. When he rang to inform us the prices, everything was now three times cheaper so we sent him off to get them. He also bought us a new toilet seat (after Dunc broke the old one in two days of arrival), praise the Lord now no painful sitting positions.
We spent three hours just relaxing at the beach. I was hoping the tan would be good by now but not to worry, Loz’s nose is so bright it makes up for both of us. Good times!!
Wednesday was a big day. We were going to visit three of the main schools in town. Holy Trinity, St Philips and Bishop Crowther. By the end of the visits, we looked absolutely shattered. That was probably because we were and are. We have just settled down with a glass of something strong and the hope that the England match might be on at the seafarers. Come on the lads.
A few days ago we went out asking the prices for some large fans and a mattress for the house. So while we were at the beach we asked Fatta to go off and get the African price. When he rang to inform us the prices, everything was now three times cheaper so we sent him off to get them. He also bought us a new toilet seat (after Dunc broke the old one in two days of arrival), praise the Lord now no painful sitting positions.
We spent three hours just relaxing at the beach. I was hoping the tan would be good by now but not to worry, Loz’s nose is so bright it makes up for both of us. Good times!!
Wednesday was a big day. We were going to visit three of the main schools in town. Holy Trinity, St Philips and Bishop Crowther. By the end of the visits, we looked absolutely shattered. That was probably because we were and are. We have just settled down with a glass of something strong and the hope that the England match might be on at the seafarers. Come on the lads.
Tuesday 14 October 2008
Sunday 12th and Monday 13th
And so it had arrived - our 5th Sunday in Western Africa.
Iain and I awoke with a church service and a day of rest ahead of us. The rain greeted us outside our door and we jogged excitedly over to the Diocesan office to find out from Bishop Lynch where we'd be heading today. After much heated debate, i.e the Bishop decided it was a good idea for us to walk to Holy Trinity, we set off on our merry way as both the rain and our spirits had eased dramatically.
However........
On arrival at Holy Trinity we realised that today's service whould be Matins and an extended celebration of the Holy Trinity Choir's vocal ability.
3 and a half hours, several million hymns and an exuberant sermon later, two unrecognizably haggard figures emerged from Holy Trinity. One, a veteran of the church - feeling bewildered and lost, the other, only a young man - feeling dazed, confused and without a doubt, speechless . Take note Duncan - if you spent Sunday doing anything other than worshiping for 3 and a half hours.......bad bad things are bound to happen to you.
Anyway, after the service these two lost individuals marched with purpose to Cafe de la Rose, much in need, of steak and chips! 3o minutes later they arrived.......it was closed. Needless to say, the younger of the group was less than happy that Iain had suggested such an extravagent plan for lunch. The road home was long, tiring and the conversation muted.....
Parks and Loz arrived back at home and the purchaaase of two loaves of bread had majorly raised spirits. Then something amazing and wonderful happend. Mr Iain Steven Francis Parks, out of nowhere, decided to set up a table tennis court across our dining room table, a mixture of string, a towel, two chairs and our beach bats thus paved the way for an awesome hour of entertainment. Neither, Loz nor Iain could have contemplated such a turn around of events, yet the decision to erect that net across our table was in one word - genius!
Monday 13th
Back to work. We spent the early hours of the morning with the intent of mapping out our journey plan for the next 2 months. With the map before us and the list of schools in Iain's hand it soon became clear this would be much harder than we had originally anticipated. Many of the villages and towns across Sierra Leone have identical names meaning that although we knew which Diocese they were located in, we had no idea if some of the schools were in the North or in the South of Sierra Leone, or both?! Change of plan. We spent the remainder of the morning in the Diocesan office speaking to the Chairman of the Education Board and the Bishop of Freetown. This proved to be a storming success. We established how, and when we would be travelling to each school, including a 10 day trip to Bo from the 10th - 20th of November, and various excursions around the rural schools in the Freetown Diocese. Much of our time in October will now be taken up with various visits to Sierra Leone by firstly, a school group from Holy Trinity - Crawley, then secondly, a church group from West Wittering. Our role in these visits will be that of co-ordinators and alot of work has gone in, particularly by Iain prior to Holy Trinity's arrival, to ensure that thier time in Africa is spent wisely and runs as smoothly as possible.
After this busy morning of preparation, we found time to relax and contemplate the month's work ahead with a few beers on our balcony.
Iain and I awoke with a church service and a day of rest ahead of us. The rain greeted us outside our door and we jogged excitedly over to the Diocesan office to find out from Bishop Lynch where we'd be heading today. After much heated debate, i.e the Bishop decided it was a good idea for us to walk to Holy Trinity, we set off on our merry way as both the rain and our spirits had eased dramatically.
However........
On arrival at Holy Trinity we realised that today's service whould be Matins and an extended celebration of the Holy Trinity Choir's vocal ability.
3 and a half hours, several million hymns and an exuberant sermon later, two unrecognizably haggard figures emerged from Holy Trinity. One, a veteran of the church - feeling bewildered and lost, the other, only a young man - feeling dazed, confused and without a doubt, speechless . Take note Duncan - if you spent Sunday doing anything other than worshiping for 3 and a half hours.......bad bad things are bound to happen to you.
Anyway, after the service these two lost individuals marched with purpose to Cafe de la Rose, much in need, of steak and chips! 3o minutes later they arrived.......it was closed. Needless to say, the younger of the group was less than happy that Iain had suggested such an extravagent plan for lunch. The road home was long, tiring and the conversation muted.....
Parks and Loz arrived back at home and the purchaaase of two loaves of bread had majorly raised spirits. Then something amazing and wonderful happend. Mr Iain Steven Francis Parks, out of nowhere, decided to set up a table tennis court across our dining room table, a mixture of string, a towel, two chairs and our beach bats thus paved the way for an awesome hour of entertainment. Neither, Loz nor Iain could have contemplated such a turn around of events, yet the decision to erect that net across our table was in one word - genius!
Monday 13th
Back to work. We spent the early hours of the morning with the intent of mapping out our journey plan for the next 2 months. With the map before us and the list of schools in Iain's hand it soon became clear this would be much harder than we had originally anticipated. Many of the villages and towns across Sierra Leone have identical names meaning that although we knew which Diocese they were located in, we had no idea if some of the schools were in the North or in the South of Sierra Leone, or both?! Change of plan. We spent the remainder of the morning in the Diocesan office speaking to the Chairman of the Education Board and the Bishop of Freetown. This proved to be a storming success. We established how, and when we would be travelling to each school, including a 10 day trip to Bo from the 10th - 20th of November, and various excursions around the rural schools in the Freetown Diocese. Much of our time in October will now be taken up with various visits to Sierra Leone by firstly, a school group from Holy Trinity - Crawley, then secondly, a church group from West Wittering. Our role in these visits will be that of co-ordinators and alot of work has gone in, particularly by Iain prior to Holy Trinity's arrival, to ensure that thier time in Africa is spent wisely and runs as smoothly as possible.
After this busy morning of preparation, we found time to relax and contemplate the month's work ahead with a few beers on our balcony.
Sunday 12 October 2008
Friday 10th + Saturday 11th October
We made an executive decision that since it was Duncans last day we would change the rule on Blog writing. It would become two days together otherwise we would be contantly writing it with only two of us left. So here goes with the first of the two day episodes.
As i have already said Friday was the day that Dunc was to leave and the job was to get across the water to the airport. We decided to take him over as he was scared about doing it alone, blest his girly heart. We got up fairly early and intended on checking Dunc in for the second part of the flight from Brussels to Manchester as they can't do it in Freetown airport which is a right pain in the bum. Anyhow I left the big fella to do it the next thing we had was abit of huffing and puffing over the "stupid printer" not printing all the pages. Dunc was really keen to get home by now mostly to see the love of his life (barry the cat) and of course to see Kerri. Not only that the lucky bugger had Colleen preparing a feast for him on arrival.
After achieving the first goal the second was to get on the Ferry. We had sent Par Jalloh off to get the car onboard and Mr Jalloh was going to get us there for 11 as the boat was about to leave. He was a touch later than we hoped but no big issue we made it just on time.
Our time in Lungi was simple we would visit the primary school there as Duncs last official visit and then go to the airport to try the food before sending him on his way. We had a great time at the school and a fantastic burger and chips at the airport. Then he departed. Then there were two!!!!!!!!!
Our final act was to come back over to Freetown, we were told that the Ferry left at 4pm. It was a lie we didn't leave till ten past five so we didn't arrived home till 7ish. The evening wasspent finishing the vodka and red bull and playing the all important UNO.
On saturday we had a lovely day a late morning and a bit of a doss! Then we headed off to Liverpool street to watch the England match, this is quick becoming one of our favourite haunts. We will be back to watch Chelsea and the mighty Boro next week. A great result for the England boys finishing 5-1. Well played lads. Then we went to sleep good times!!!
As i have already said Friday was the day that Dunc was to leave and the job was to get across the water to the airport. We decided to take him over as he was scared about doing it alone, blest his girly heart. We got up fairly early and intended on checking Dunc in for the second part of the flight from Brussels to Manchester as they can't do it in Freetown airport which is a right pain in the bum. Anyhow I left the big fella to do it the next thing we had was abit of huffing and puffing over the "stupid printer" not printing all the pages. Dunc was really keen to get home by now mostly to see the love of his life (barry the cat) and of course to see Kerri. Not only that the lucky bugger had Colleen preparing a feast for him on arrival.
After achieving the first goal the second was to get on the Ferry. We had sent Par Jalloh off to get the car onboard and Mr Jalloh was going to get us there for 11 as the boat was about to leave. He was a touch later than we hoped but no big issue we made it just on time.
Our time in Lungi was simple we would visit the primary school there as Duncs last official visit and then go to the airport to try the food before sending him on his way. We had a great time at the school and a fantastic burger and chips at the airport. Then he departed. Then there were two!!!!!!!!!
Our final act was to come back over to Freetown, we were told that the Ferry left at 4pm. It was a lie we didn't leave till ten past five so we didn't arrived home till 7ish. The evening wasspent finishing the vodka and red bull and playing the all important UNO.
On saturday we had a lovely day a late morning and a bit of a doss! Then we headed off to Liverpool street to watch the England match, this is quick becoming one of our favourite haunts. We will be back to watch Chelsea and the mighty Boro next week. A great result for the England boys finishing 5-1. Well played lads. Then we went to sleep good times!!!
Friday 10 October 2008
Thursday 9th October
Today was all about chilling out on Dunc’s last full day. We headed off on a walk across Freetown to soak up the atmosphere. We were heading to “The Big Market” so Dunc could buy some presents (Look, I can’t buy for everybody so don’t expect anything and you won’t be disappointed). It was a very successful trip and was good fun bartering even with some of the more aggressive sellers. We walked back via Victoria Park where there is another Market. On the way back Dunc and Loz stopped off at Holy Trinity School as Iain had a meeting with the bishop so headed off with Fatta. It was on the walk back from the school that I saw the most horrific thing in Sierra Leone since we’ve been here. It was in the middle of the street and was in full view of thousands of people. How a Sierra Leonean can wear a Warrington Wolves {Spit Spit} shirt I will never know! In the following aftermath Duncan managed to head butt a road sign (ouch! I blame the wire fan).
We went to the Seafarer’s to sample Eunice’s food for the last time, but it turns out Dunc and Loz don’t like Bitter Leaf and Foo Foo. Foo Foo is like something you would plaster walls with. With the afternoon free we went down to Lumley Beach for the last time for Dunc. With some sunbathing, jumping into waves, and some head tennis (new record of 17) we headed back.
In the evening, Parks cooked a slap up meal of pasta which was enjoyed with some red wine. We then had some Vodka and in time honoured tradition the last game of Uno on the balcony with us all there.
Dunc’s Final Thought:
Although this blog is all about the fun we’ve had and the stupid stuff we’ve done, we have been to 21 schools, 40ish churches, 2 cathedrals and 3 diocesan offices. I sincerely hope that the work we’ve done so far has been beneficial to the Sierra Leonie’s both now and in the future and the work that I’ve done personally will be of help to both Parks and IDWAL with the future projects that they run.
Parks and Loz are here for another 2 months and I know they will continue the hard work and effort they have put in so far. The blog will also be continuing (although obviously not as funny or as well written).
Take care of yourselves and each other (except that bloody wire fan!)
We went to the Seafarer’s to sample Eunice’s food for the last time, but it turns out Dunc and Loz don’t like Bitter Leaf and Foo Foo. Foo Foo is like something you would plaster walls with. With the afternoon free we went down to Lumley Beach for the last time for Dunc. With some sunbathing, jumping into waves, and some head tennis (new record of 17) we headed back.
In the evening, Parks cooked a slap up meal of pasta which was enjoyed with some red wine. We then had some Vodka and in time honoured tradition the last game of Uno on the balcony with us all there.
Dunc’s Final Thought:
Although this blog is all about the fun we’ve had and the stupid stuff we’ve done, we have been to 21 schools, 40ish churches, 2 cathedrals and 3 diocesan offices. I sincerely hope that the work we’ve done so far has been beneficial to the Sierra Leonie’s both now and in the future and the work that I’ve done personally will be of help to both Parks and IDWAL with the future projects that they run.
Parks and Loz are here for another 2 months and I know they will continue the hard work and effort they have put in so far. The blog will also be continuing (although obviously not as funny or as well written).
Take care of yourselves and each other (except that bloody wire fan!)
Wednesday 8th October
Today started with abit of a late morning as I was waiting to have a conversation with Mr Jalloh about the use of a vehicle. It got to 10am and just we were about to give up he turned up. Said if we could wait five minutes and we could have par Jalloh in the brown machine. We took him up on the offer!
When we headed up to the Cathedral, Duncan tried to get the information that they would like him to put on the website. The funny thing is he hasn’t done a website for about 6 years! We then added antivirus’ to their computers and off we went. Next on the list of jobs was to call at Western Union for Loz, all would have been fine but as I got out of the car I lost my shorts, Bad times!
Lunch was next on the agenda, back to Mamasu’ for Chicken and Pork along with a star beer of course!
We then called at the YMCA for a money change a stupid photo opportunity. I’m sure you will all see it eventually. Then on to the orphanage. We had a wonderful visit there, we were welcomed by Henry and Binta the directors and met with all the children. I then explained that the purpose of the visit was to give them some money donated by Arif, one of Dunc’s colleagues. They were over the moon to receive it, it will go towards the daily costs of the orphanage! Dunc then presented them with the t shirts donated by CIC. Our final part of the visit was to go and view their land that they are trying to build a new orphanage on. It will cost them another £12,000 to finish the project but the money doesn’t come easily!
What a fantastic and emotional day!
When we headed up to the Cathedral, Duncan tried to get the information that they would like him to put on the website. The funny thing is he hasn’t done a website for about 6 years! We then added antivirus’ to their computers and off we went. Next on the list of jobs was to call at Western Union for Loz, all would have been fine but as I got out of the car I lost my shorts, Bad times!
Lunch was next on the agenda, back to Mamasu’ for Chicken and Pork along with a star beer of course!
We then called at the YMCA for a money change a stupid photo opportunity. I’m sure you will all see it eventually. Then on to the orphanage. We had a wonderful visit there, we were welcomed by Henry and Binta the directors and met with all the children. I then explained that the purpose of the visit was to give them some money donated by Arif, one of Dunc’s colleagues. They were over the moon to receive it, it will go towards the daily costs of the orphanage! Dunc then presented them with the t shirts donated by CIC. Our final part of the visit was to go and view their land that they are trying to build a new orphanage on. It will cost them another £12,000 to finish the project but the money doesn’t come easily!
What a fantastic and emotional day!
Wednesday 8 October 2008
Tuesday 7th October
There were two things on the agenda for today, Duncan to work on the machines in the Bishop’s office and to visit Bishop Johnson’s Memorial School. We spent the morning in the office with Parks and Loz doing some reports, or more likely, messing around on the internet (just kidding chaps) and Duncan working on the machine’s there (no one ever wants to use antivirus over here!).
While some antivirus was downloading (the download speeds in Sierra Leone are slightly better than the old dial up) we went for lunch over at the seafarer’s. Eunice had prepared us some green stuff and rice, it was surprisingly pleasant. It also had some chicken and fish in. Certainly not bad for 80p!
After lunch we went over to Bishop Johnson Memorial School. It is just the other side of the seafarer’s so we decided not to take the car for the 30 seconds walk, doing our bit for the environment! They have a visit from Holy Trinity School in Sussex beginning on Sunday so that was the main point of discussion. Twelve 16-18 year olds will be visiting Freetown for 10 days and by the sounds of things they have a pretty busy agenda. This visit has been happening for the past 5 years and there is a very good link between the schools, as some students are travelling in the opposite direction in 2010. Duncan took a look at the 3 machines built in 1824 and possibilities for the future and we headed back to the office.
In the office Duncan completed his work on the machines and they all carried on with their report and the compulsory checking of emails and the stock markets. Around 7 it was dark so we headed back to the house for some food and a few games of Uno before having a very early night.
While some antivirus was downloading (the download speeds in Sierra Leone are slightly better than the old dial up) we went for lunch over at the seafarer’s. Eunice had prepared us some green stuff and rice, it was surprisingly pleasant. It also had some chicken and fish in. Certainly not bad for 80p!
After lunch we went over to Bishop Johnson Memorial School. It is just the other side of the seafarer’s so we decided not to take the car for the 30 seconds walk, doing our bit for the environment! They have a visit from Holy Trinity School in Sussex beginning on Sunday so that was the main point of discussion. Twelve 16-18 year olds will be visiting Freetown for 10 days and by the sounds of things they have a pretty busy agenda. This visit has been happening for the past 5 years and there is a very good link between the schools, as some students are travelling in the opposite direction in 2010. Duncan took a look at the 3 machines built in 1824 and possibilities for the future and we headed back to the office.
In the office Duncan completed his work on the machines and they all carried on with their report and the compulsory checking of emails and the stock markets. Around 7 it was dark so we headed back to the house for some food and a few games of Uno before having a very early night.
Monday 6th October
This morning we were all up and out of bed at 6am, expecting Mr Jalloh to arrive at 7am to whisk us off inland to Port Loko. We were all considerably miffed with the prospect of this early hour, yet decided it wouldn’t be so bad as long as “The Jalloh” rolled up on time......he didn’t. We were finally on the road at 8am with the prospect of a long day of work ahead of us.
The roads between our compound in Freetown and Port Loko, varied from brilliantly paved to excessively pot-holed and off the beaten track. We eventually arrived at 10.15, warmly greeted at Schlenker Secondary School by the Principle- Mr Kamara. We soon departed on a tour of the school grounds and were all thoroughly impressed by the facilities erected, especially with the destruction caused by the war clearly visible around every corner. After this, Duncan soon settled himself into the Computer suite whilst Iain and Laurence set off to visit the local Primary School in the Jalloh-mobile. On the way to the Primary School, we managed to fit in a bonus visit to the local Pre-school where the very young children went from being intimidated by the presence of the “Pumuie”(White Man) to completely enthralled by Laurence’s ability to take photos of them before showing them the, smiling and waving, end product. Chaos ensued as each child hurled his or her self in front of the camera as each little one cried out –“Snap me, Snap me!” After Iain had carried out the necessary auditing work, we continued on to the Primary School. The delightful, yet unfortunately blind, headmaster extended to us a fond welcome before explaining how a cheque for £140 had been impossible to cash (they do live in the middle of nowhere!) After we’d resolved the situation we toured the small school, witnessing the proposed site for the construction of a new school hall. The auditory work complete, we quickly rushed over to the local Medical Centre to applaud the work done there before embarking on the return journey to pick us everyone’s favourite I.T expert. We experienced a flat tyre on the way, yet eventually returned to Schlenker via the Principle’s own car.
On arrival Duncan filled us in on the fact that a virus had hit 4 of the 6 computers available at the school. Dunc had fixed one computer and installed the school’s printer but there was little we could do to rescue the other machines. We shared lunch with the Principle and Vice-Principle before spending a time in the computer suite to see if there was anything we could do. Unfortunately the machines seemed beyond repair and after Duncan had written a report we set off for home- Freetown. We arrived home just gone 4.30pm, with the rest of the evening to wind down after the long journey and the long day’s work had worn us all out.
The roads between our compound in Freetown and Port Loko, varied from brilliantly paved to excessively pot-holed and off the beaten track. We eventually arrived at 10.15, warmly greeted at Schlenker Secondary School by the Principle- Mr Kamara. We soon departed on a tour of the school grounds and were all thoroughly impressed by the facilities erected, especially with the destruction caused by the war clearly visible around every corner. After this, Duncan soon settled himself into the Computer suite whilst Iain and Laurence set off to visit the local Primary School in the Jalloh-mobile. On the way to the Primary School, we managed to fit in a bonus visit to the local Pre-school where the very young children went from being intimidated by the presence of the “Pumuie”(White Man) to completely enthralled by Laurence’s ability to take photos of them before showing them the, smiling and waving, end product. Chaos ensued as each child hurled his or her self in front of the camera as each little one cried out –“Snap me, Snap me!” After Iain had carried out the necessary auditing work, we continued on to the Primary School. The delightful, yet unfortunately blind, headmaster extended to us a fond welcome before explaining how a cheque for £140 had been impossible to cash (they do live in the middle of nowhere!) After we’d resolved the situation we toured the small school, witnessing the proposed site for the construction of a new school hall. The auditory work complete, we quickly rushed over to the local Medical Centre to applaud the work done there before embarking on the return journey to pick us everyone’s favourite I.T expert. We experienced a flat tyre on the way, yet eventually returned to Schlenker via the Principle’s own car.
On arrival Duncan filled us in on the fact that a virus had hit 4 of the 6 computers available at the school. Dunc had fixed one computer and installed the school’s printer but there was little we could do to rescue the other machines. We shared lunch with the Principle and Vice-Principle before spending a time in the computer suite to see if there was anything we could do. Unfortunately the machines seemed beyond repair and after Duncan had written a report we set off for home- Freetown. We arrived home just gone 4.30pm, with the rest of the evening to wind down after the long journey and the long day’s work had worn us all out.
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