That epic Mountain, and the backdrop for my new home, Mt. Kilimanjaro never ceases to amaze me. I didn't see Kili my first few days here, mainly because of overcast weather, but partly because I wasn't sure which direction to look. People buzz around oblivious to it in the morning, and I stand at the roadside waiting to catch the dala dala (mini bus) to work and gaze in awe of Kili each morning. I'm set to read the Snows of Kilimanjaro next. It was really comforting to find a Hemingway collection in my Dad's things as I packed up to move here...

I feel at home. I moved in to my new place, so fortunate to have found a house that is so "me". Aside from the fact I snagged the perfect size home with a great location for a great price, there is an avocado and lime tree on the property. Bliss! (Photos to come in the next post once I get a chance to decorate.)

The weekend saw the official start of the rainy season with a long thunderstorm. Good thing I can view Kili now, as she'll surely disappear in the clouds for the next few months. The weekend also saw the Kilimanjaro International Marathon. Impressive, inspiring and exhausting just to watch, the pros, the Amani kids, the disabled and the tourists all took to the streets, which oddly enough, weren't closed to traffic or pedestrians. Talk about a free for all. I'm not a runner, but I'm definitely in for the 5k next year!

I'm feeling positive and light. I love my job and the kids there, love my new house and love getting to know the town and people in Moshi. I don't love the insects here, but I can appreciate how bizarre and beautiful some of them look. I just prefer to see them outside...

View while waiting for the dala dala

Walking in to work!

Kili Intl Marathon

Some cute observers watching the finish at the stadium

Start/Finish