In Tanzania, a “safari” is not only a trip to see big game animals. Its literal meaning is a “far journey”. So I returned yesterday from my “safari” to Tanga, a very old port city on the Indian Ocean. As the drive is 6 hours to Tanga, I had a lot of time to reflect on the people living in this…
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I am based at Mama Florentina’s home in Moshi, Tanzania. While Moshi is a town… soon to be a city, officially, I am told… it still has all the characteristics of a third world culture. Mama’s home is in the “best” part of town, but is conversely referred to as Shanty Town. That is a GOOD name, here. She has…
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Our group of Kilimanjaro climbers has returned to America, each to their respective states and homes. I remain in Tanzania until February 26, to follow up on details for placement of the first 25 wells. This is a time of great wonder and gratitude. Wonder at the continued unfoldment of international coöperation and sense of unity through…
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Life in Tanzania has continued to be filled with wonder. Our entire group spent two days on Safari, with an amazing number of animals seen and phởtographed. One land rover contained the film crew and the other had the rest of us playing tourists. It was really very funny to look up and see maybe…
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With a day’s rest and many stories shared, the group will now go on safari together for two days! We are being joined by the climb guide, Honest, and bringing the climb cook, Valance. We are all looking forward to time together and to the excitement of seeing and phởtographing the animals. This is a chance for…
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GREETINGS to all! It is a day of gratitude and celebration, with all of our climbers safe and back down from the mountain! We had quite an evening last night… with the mountain guides and porters joining us at Mama Florentina’s… for feasting, prayers of gratitude… and many stories of the challenges they faced and overcame.…
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We have word that we should pick up the climbers later today! We have not heard if all made it to the top, but I know that all intended to make a final push… after their day of rest. We’re all anxious and excited for their safe return… and will be celebrating with a big dinner…cooked by Matrona……
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Jambo! Word from the mountain seems positive. The group rested for 24 hours at a base camp, 17,000 feet, before they will make their final ascent, beginning this morning. This helps them to acclimatize to the thin air, as well as gives their bodies some relief from climbing. They remain in good spirits… for this final push to…
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The Kilimanjaro climbers are now above 16,500 feet and all are feeling some effect from the altitude. Sam Fell, one of the film crew, has descended after reaching 16,000 feet. It is never predictable as to who might feel the effects of the altitude, to the point of debilitating illness, and consequently forcing a descent. Sam suffered a lot,…
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We have received a message this morning from the Kilimanjaro climbers and all are doing well! They are in the 3rd day of a 6 day ascent, so almost halfway to the top now. Everyone remains positive and hopeful of reaching the top. Florentina Masawe has indicated she is tiring, but still determined. At 62 years old, she is the…
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