And the Rains Came...

October is generally acknowledged as the hottest month in Zambia, with the transition from the hot and dry season to the hot and wet season usually beginning in November. While still warm and humid, the rains periodically cool things off a bit, increased cloud cover tempers the sun’s intensity, and breezes accompanying storms provide a welcome respite from the heat. As if on cue, the first week in November brought gathering clouds, some swirling winds, occasional lightning and thunder, and scattered showers. (These phenomena also tend to be accompanied by power outages and water supply cut-offs, but that’s another story.)

Late Wednesday night (actually early Thursday morning) was absolutely still, when lightning flashed, thunder rumbled, winds picked up, and the initial raindrops on the roof soon sounded as though Somerset Maugham’s “Rain” had come to life. Actually, the precipitation was fairly brief, and probably not nearly as intense as it seemed based upon the noise emanating from the corrugated metal roof. At least the puddles were relatively few the next morning, and no water appeared to have dripped through the small holes in the roof. In any case, the dust was settled for a few hours, and the earth had a distinctly moist aroma. While the rains cannot yet be considered to have officially arrived, the signs are beginning, and farmers are starting their preparations for another growing season. 

Sarah (right) & other organizers of braai

On Sunday afternoon, a welcome “braai” was generously provided for new VSO volunteers in the Eastern Province. This was a great opportunity to see compatriots who also arrived in October, compare experiences to date, and meet other VSO volunteers as well as a variety of people from different organizations. The gathering took place at “VSO House” in Chipata, which features lovely grounds with huge trees. Chipata, the provincial capital and largest city, is about a two-hour drive east from Petauke. Special thanks to the VSO Volunteer Committee and especially Sarah Washington (the Volunteer Committee Eastern Province representative), Rosie and Frances (VSO volunteers residing at the site), and others who helped organize the event or otherwise contributed.     

November 8 marked World Town Planning Day, and completion of one month in Zambia (and three weeks in Petauke).