So, I've been doing some scrapbooking--finally putting together my pictures of our trip to Madagascar. I seem to have to be in the mood for scrapbooking but thanks to my dear friend, who inspired me, I am proud to say I completed two scrapbooks today. It took a few weeks, but I'm finished, for now. I figured it's been almost two years since our trip that it was time.
Actually, I've enjoyed reminiscing the "good times" we had while there in September/October, 2008. As I was thining back, I made a list of the highlights of our adventure. I must say our week in Tamatave and Mahambo was the most exciting time of those two months. We were on the Indian Ocean, which was a delight, and spent time with a wonderful family--directors of the YWAM base, where we stayed. Their daughter, Sharone, was a "hit" with all of us. Quite the entertainer, kept us ROTFL. (rolling on the floor laughing) Victor and Douce were quite hospitable--allowing us to stay in the dorms for the week. They live with their two young children, Douce's brother and two nephews. They invited us to dinner each evening and had breakfast available in the early mornings before they began their busy day. Douce and Victor are the directors of YWAM Tamatave. The base is also an NGO with Mercy Ministries. They set up health clinics in villages in surrounding areas. Douce and Victor also host visiting teams from other countries including their own and do a lot of teaching.
On this stop, we traveled by bicycle pousse-pousse (similar to a rickshaw but with a bicycle attached to the front) or we walked. Walking on the beach for a mile or two was a great workout.
Staying in Mahambo for a weekend was a real treat. Though there was no electricity, except for a couple of hours each night, and it rained most of the time, we still had an amazing time. We got caught on the beach in the rain, and while trying to duck under a tree to keep dry, we also had to watch out for the cebu that were coming our way. Then, there was the floating bridge that was partially underwater. If you knew my fear of bridges, you'd realize that having to disembark the bus to walk across without falling in the river.
Here is my list of highlights and I'll add a few pictures. (I have another blog that has more stories and pictures of Madagascar, but these things have been "On My Mind".
Planete restaurant where we found “Mondo Burgers” and fries
The American Cookie Shop with some delicious brownies
Our visit with Mamy in downtown Tana
Enjoying the kids in Itaosy--so full of laughter and energy
Fun with Sam and Rivo and their boys Aaron and Anthony, playing a Madagascar (the movie) card game
Lake Ambatofotsy with the children coming out of the woods, and our day there with Henintsoa’s family and the DTS students
Our meals with Henintsoa’s family and a trip to the Tsimbazaza Zoo
My 60th birthday week spent at the beach in Tamatave and Mahambo was probably the top highlight. Time spent with Victor, Douce, Sharone, Ariel and the rest of the family. Wading in the Indian Ocean. Walking for miles along the beach.
Mahambo was most amazing. Wish we could have stayed longer.
We got to witness a Vodiondry (engagement party), a wedding, a funeral procession and “turning of the bones” celebration.
Meeting the street children and hanging out with mothers on the street, distributing clothes I had collected for a few years
Well, that's what's been "On My Mind" for the past few weeks as I've sorted through photos, scrapbooked and rejournaled my original journal of our trip to Madagascar.
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