First Night~~~Mandara Huts

On the way to the first nights lodging there were so many beautiful things. From the canopy of tropical trees covered with moss, to the African Impatiens, the Bloody Lilies, and waterfalls everywhere. It was an amazing hike. Once at the Mandara Huts I once again had to check in, but not before each member of my team was there to do a round of high fives. After checking in I was given the key to hut number seven, and was soon joined by my two new Austrian friends husband and wife, Nina and Martin. Nina was the person I had asked to take a photo at the base of the Mt. Both Nina and Martin spoke very good English, and were very comfortable to be around. Being in the company of those from other nations, I learned most all speak several languages and speak them very well. Then, there was me, I was doing good to say "Jambo" hello in Swahili.

After settling into hut number seven, I simply wanted to take in some of the happenings about the Mandara Campsite. The guides and porters quarters are on the opposite side of the guest huts. It was amazing to see all the porters, cooks and guides bustling about just to ensure the clients were taken care and happy with everything. Soon one of my porters came with a basin of hot water and soap so I could wash up and get ready for afternoon TEA. I took one sip of the tea and that was enough for me. I'm no sure what type of tea it was, but it was definitely not Lipton.


After tea, Andrew, one of my porters, and I walked a short distance up to the Maundi Crater. From which you could see Tanzania on one side and Kenya on the other. What an amazing sight to see two different countries from the top of one mountain. Plus in the trees there were several "Bush Babies," a small rarely seen bush monkey. I think Andrew was more impressed with the Bush Babies than I was. Once back at the Mandara Campsite dinner was ready, but I wasn't, as my stomach was upset from the altitude. Some of the dishes at dinner I knew what they were, others I had no idea. I found the key was to take a rather small bite and try to figure it out. This is how I got my first taste of GOAT, yes goat and Cucumber soup. GROSS!!!!!! I really do not think anyone should make soup out of a cucumber. After getting both in my mouth the trick was getting it out..... The whole time I was thinking of a Big Mac & Fries, and honestly couldn't wait to get back to my hut and find a Power Bar.

Shortly, after dinner it was off to hut number seven for a restful nights sleep, yeah right! I knew the altitude makes ones urinary tract system work over time, but this was ridiculous. Every two hours I was runny to the long drop. The bad things was the long drop was a good hundred yards away and the monkeys and other wildlife were making a horrible racket. I finally learned to step outside the hut, drop my drawers and hurry back inside. The night seems long in a way, but very short in another. At 6am there was a knock on the door, it was Tea time.

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1/29/09
From Mom: Well, I made it through the first night okay. I was glad to get to the first night’s lodging or hut. I still can’t believe I am here. Saw monkeys on the way. It’s very green and thick. Oh & I have to be positive about my job. Average years pay here is $450.00 per YEAR! So, go easy on the luxuries of the 44 oz Diet Cokes. Love Ya, Mom, Lauri, and Grandma

1/29/09
From Tiffany: Awesome! I am so proud of you! You have had tons of replies to your messages. They are on your blog and mine. I told Brykn you saw monkeys and he wants to know if you have got his elephant. He says we can put it in the barn. Hang in there today! You are doing great. And, the picture was awesome. We love you!

From Sana: I love knowing you are loving your walk. Those huts are a welcome site. Africa is in every breath. May He continue to watch over your every step.