Well, just got back from a fairly typical Saturday. I missed the gym this morning, but dad and I went out to catch up on some shopping - he needed his fix of M & S and Waitrose before going back to Algiers. We had a Pizza Express lunch - we were going to send you a picture of us over our Soho pizza, but thought that might be a bit cruel! And then back for some DIY before he gets away again. It is freezing here, so only a brisk walk with the dogs, but I am promising them a hike through Richmond Park or like tomorrow - with Rachel in tow. I am sure you really miss that. I bumped into Barbara S in Waitrose, who sends love and wanted to hear more about your trip, and I passed your blog address onto Ingrid and Karen - so you might get some more messages, or at least have some peeping toms checking out the blog. I just got your address from Dorcas - anything you want or need? It would be great to check out the postal system, eh? Love you lots.

mum

Hey guys!! hope you enjoy the blog update! im still trying to get used to this site and its all a bit puzzling.

i tried to upload photos but it was taking far too long! i will try again next week or u may have to wait until i get home! the one that did upload is of some of the boys in the home watching a movie in our room! love u all xx

Thanks so much for the update blog - it is wonderful to hear your impressions and your descriptions are great, we can almost hear the sounds, feel the push and smell the smells - well almost!

And great to talk to you today. Sorry to interupt your breakfast, but I left it as long as I could (at least I didn't wake you up). Thanks for sharing your news and please keep us updated. Miss you lots. mum

Hi Katie love , I am glad to hear from you and that you arrived safely . I imagine that Ghana is much like Nigeria . Just be very careful . I can really relate to you having to go on the bus alone , not that I ever did that but Africa is " something else ". Have you noticed that it has a smell all it's own , wait till you get to Asia , that is totally different . I love you very much and I am sure you will enjoy the whole sxperience . Gran .

Katie...

I have to admitt it is your Aunt Jen's first Blog experience. Your Dad is right, watch out for the Scorpions...all I can add, is pick up rocks away from you, so they run out the other way. I cannot wait to hear about your adventures with the children and what a wonderful enriching experience it is to be involved in being a positive impact in their lives. We are so proud of you!! Can't wait to see pictures of your adventure.

Lots of Love - Aunt Jen

Hi there Midge. Sounds like true adventures unfolding before our very eyes. I imagine the atmosphere in Ghana must be pretty good at the moment with the All Africa Cup going on. Was the game exciting? Good that Ghana got the bronze.

Have you seen anything in the way of wild life yet? Watch out for snakes and especially scorpions. We used to get lots of them in Nigeria so keep your shoues upside down at night and shake them out in the morning. ALso watch out for the babies which can get blown into washing on the line if it is windy.

Keep up the good work with letting us know what you are up to and above all enjoy yourself.

Dad

Blog #1 is fantastic! Already you're on an adventure! Can't wait to hear about the orphanage. Any kiddos in the family you're staying with??

Hey hon, thanks for the update. I have cancelled the plumber and am thinking of pulling all of the showers out of the house - #Rachel will be pleased as it will be much more environmentally friendly! Yes the first couple of days do sound like quite an adventure, the bus ride alone would have sent me over the edge - well, you certainly will learn patience! I love you lots and hope that the first week with the kids is good. Enjoy! love you - m

Katie Honey: Loved reading your blog of your first day. I'm sure that you are fascinated seeing the huge difference in the cultures it must be truly exciting. Thinking of you always.

Hi Katie, I am in total awe of you!! Have a fabulous time and I'm really looking forward to reading all about your adventures wether or not they involve sleeping with 65 year old Dutch women!

love Barbara XXX

i don't know if like facebook it is very uncool to write on your own wall- but i just wanted to thank you all for your kind messages! i miss you all terribly but am begining to setlle in
looking foward to hearing from you all! xx

I have just spoken to Katie who has arrived safe and well in Ghana. She will be spending the weekend in Kamassi and then heading out to the orphanage on Sunday. She sounds well,if a bit tired. Katie has a phone there now - +233248205125 and says she is happy to hear from people, but don't ring her from a cell phone as it will cost you and her a fortune.