Summer is COLD in Zambia...

I didn't think I would have to be bundled up in Africa, but turns out June and July are Coooollld here. It is winter and hard to believe y'all are lounging in the sun. It is surprisingly chilly at night, but still manages to be hot during the day. It's like fall and summer all in 24 hours. I never quite know how to dress. Things have been really busy lately. I traveled to Central Province this past week to run a half marathon. It was a marathon just to get there. A few friends and I hitched (a very common and usually safe way of transport here) from Kasama to Mpika (2 hours south) in a pick-up truck and actually hit a GOAT on the way. Yeah it was brutal, never hit anything like that in a vehicle before. It was a surprisingly small bump, but traumatic none the less. We made the rest of the trip on the back of a packed cargo truck. We, along with 20 fellow Zambian travellers, were on top of sacks of beans and other crops for the 4 hour trip. It wasn't a bad ride, though when the sun began to set we were FREEZING...the wind is merciless on those open trucks. We managed to make it from Kasama to Serenje (half way across the country) for 15,000 kwacha (about $4). Not bad. The run was a success, i did the 13 miles in 1 hour and 46 minutes, better than I expected. Unfortunately I injured my hamstring in a freak ultimate frisbee accident the next day and am in Lusaka for medical treatment now. I am getting it checked out later today, we think it might be a tear, but not sure. I am bummed because I am very active in the village and it is killing me to hobble around. I'm hoping for a quick recovery. It was a trip to roll into the traffic and development of Lusaka. I instantly missed the serenity of the Village. It is strange to see such a drastic difference of lifestyles. From bikes to cars, windy dirt roads to pavement, moonlight and stars to city lights. Hopefully I'll be able to return up north sooner than later. I'll be sure to keep you posted. All the love..Lisa