Yesterday the Bloemfontein Hikers Club pitched their tents on our hilltop. It was quite an experience - we had worked hard the last few days to get everything ready in time and to get the villagers to understand the importance of treating guests properly. In the end it all worked out well - two people out of the group decided spontaneously to stay in the village instead of pitching their tent, because a lady of the village committee had invited them into her house. She must have made a good host, for the guests were happy and pleased the next morning. The campers on the hilltop got to try out our newly installed hot shower, which was quite an eperience, for the boiler is not all too easy to operate, and Aidan and I had to assist for the first few showers. I suppose we must find a way to make this easier - in the long run, it just won't do. But for now it was ok, and the hikers were delighted to find a hot shower in the middle of the Wild Coast. We spent the night chatting at the fire (around the newly built fireplace, Johann and Mike did a good job!) and it was great having people here and getting to know them and hear their stories.
Babalwa is polishing the newly built fireplace
village women bring firewood for the guests
the campers settle in
the Bloemfontein Hikers Club at Sobonana Lodge
Mike seems to enjoy his stay here too, he is happily getting involved into the project and everything we're doing. It's great to have someone here who is so enthusiastic and willing to work! Babalwa also seems to be getting used to her job and enjoying her position. When the campers left, she was the one who organized the car to carry their luggage to the next stop, and we just handed her the money for the driver and let her deal with all the rest. Aaaah it's great to hand over some of the responsibilities. :-)
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