Every day we are closer to Zambia. We read incessantly, surf the web for hours, gleaning any aspect from the words, pictures and videos. Batteries are charged. Bags are loosely packed with clothing, with anything blue weeded out of the stacks. (We hear that tsetse flies like blue.) Soccer balls and pumps are ordered – I pick them up next week.

With the wonders of electronic communications, we are in touch with some of our hosts along the way: what can we bring? Are there local schools or clinics you support? How can we help? Of course, not all contacts are altruistic: can we go fishing? Can we go walking with your guides? Just giving our hosts some information (or warning!) about our interests for our upcoming visit.

A scent on a breeze, we are anxious to catch the essence of Zambia. We can’t wait to be on our way!