Tuesday March 11th

This is the day before we are due to travel and we have had some of the worst storms combined with exceptionally high tides.
Once again the weather seems to be telling us it is going to make it hard for us to be on time! I am meeting Annemarie in Gatwick tomorrow lunchtime and I am sure that the elements want to test us. Although now at 6.30pm the storm has abated a little the winds are still very strong! Hey ho no point worrying about it!

Wednesday 12th March

Wind still very strong but the skies are clear blue so maybe I will get blown to Gatwick faster!
No delays and departed on time. I arrived and had time for a quick cup of coffee and then Annemarie came through – this all seems a bit to good to be true………..the driver arrived spot on 4pm and the next thing we knew we were arriving at terminal 4 at Heathrow.

We spotted Russel Sims from the wheelchair company straightaway – I confess to being taken aback as he was IN a wheelchair and had ours next to him. He was sitting waiting patiently for us.
 
We offered him a cup of coffee as I really wanted to show him the Presentation that Gary Solway had shown to the Lords Taverners in order to raise funds for this special chair!

See Rasika page on the menu LEFT at the bottom!

What a nice man Russel was – I was really interested to learn that he had had a car accident in 1988 and this was what led him to form the company RGK WHEELCHAIRS – he was frustrated with what was available in the way of wheelchairs. He was really sporty and needed something sturdy and light.

Our new wheelchair was VERY smart and all liveried up with Taverner’s colours and a stitched on badge in recognition of their efforts. Annemarie took pictures and we queued to check in after goodbyes to Russel.

 

All very straightforward – we had something to eat and then boarded the flight. To my surprise it was full however we had an amazing tailwind of 4 million miles an hour and the flight to Sri Lanka seemed to whizz past even tho we had left ½ an hour late.

Thursday 13th March

The wheelchair was waiting as were our bags – has to be a record – all so quick and painless. Prasad was there to meet us and was TOTALLY surprised to see Annemarie – his face lit up like a Christmas Tree!

We arrived at the Galadari and had a quick change –we had arrived into 30 degree heat - bit of a shock to the system! So set off into FABRIC WORLD – otherwise known as the “pettah” it was CRAZY – loud- smelly and manic – with men pushing long strange shaped trolleys – to carry fabric – this way and that. We negotiated our way though the melee. First down one street – then back up it – then down it again – then down another – whoa – I am totally confused.

The pollution in down town Colombo is HORRENDOUS and how anyone lives past 30 is beyond me their lungs must be shot to pieces! Finally after some negotiation we arrived at a shop where we bought a good quantity of calico – next we had to get the material to Prasad – Annemarie and `I went in search of thread – again after a little searching we bought some white for both stitching and overlocking! We also bought some pinstripe fabric – Annemarie’s idea for REAL MAN BAGS! Or the EXECUTIVE BAG!! Surely a MUST have!! ‘This is not just a bag it’s a man bag! M&S look out!

We tuked back to the van to find it stuffed with fabric and our precious wheelchair perched on the top! Back to the hotel and a much needed drink! Wow what a day – totally mad and exhausting but VERY productive.

Over a drink our agent in Colombo told us of the pitfalls of exporting and promised to help with forms etc at the port. Everything that goes by boat will go through his hands, which is good to know! He is a good man and wants to help where he can! We will try to sort the labels tomorrow on the way down South. Snack at the bar and then write this and fall into bed in a sort of satisfied stupor!


Friday 14th March

Woke at around 6 after a reasonable night’s sleep. Breakfast and then straight off with Prasad to the label shop – except they didn’t do labels! They gave us the address of another place – they didn’t do them either………..wild goose chase comes to mind………..so we resolved to try and find them in Galle and in the mean time our man would try and see if he can get them in Colombo too. We arrived at 12.15 – record time…………………….no traffic and lovely weather too.

We unpacked had a quick bite and set off with Prasad to meet Rasika with Chaini and Indika at Rasika’s friend Manjula’s house. I asked how the `English lessons were going at which point everyone laughed………..it seems that sister Lasika will get 10/10 from Chaini and Rasika 3/10! Oops she has had to teach him the alphabet in English from scratch. Lasika has her final exams in August and then she can look for a job as a teacher. Rasika seemd very pleased with the chair and did the adjustments to the wheel spacing himself.
 

Once he was actually in the chair he realised just how manoeuvrable it was and spun around 360% on a sixpence with some delight! Chaini carefully explained to him that I must do some measurements and take some pictures of him for the Director of the clinic in the UK. He seemed happy enough and readily agreed to possibly Tuesday as a provisional date.

We popped into Manjari to price up the lovely fabric but ended up buying some more! As Annemarie says we DON’T do window shopping!

 

Next we went to Galle Fort for jewellery. Put some aside at the first shop and then went to see if Annemarie’s tie pins were ready. They are still at the stone cutters and will be ready for Tuesday. Had a quick coffee at the Galle Fort and then set off to meet the others.

Our new little factory is so close to the village and set right off the main road surrounded by the owners family on 3 sides. It is SO perfect and very clear that many hands had been employed to get the place looking so fantastic. It is all painted white, fans have been fitted, new flooring laid, a new rear door fitted and the whole area outside cleared and cleaned up. Irene and Dave have been fantastic in overseeing this. I honestly am so impressed with ALL of them. They have pulled together and got the house looking really professional.

 

It has a really lovely feeling - as soon as you walk in. All we need now is the machines – staff and presto Bags of Appeal will soon be operating………how exciting is that???

 

We went down to meet the owner – who was a lovely lady all smiley and happy. Next we went to Chaini’s house to give the fabric and start to explain about the bags/ sizes/shapes etc. We agreed to have a whole village meeting on Sunday to explain about what we want to aim for. Back to the hotel after making arrangements to meet Irene and David at their place in the morning for the trip south to get the machines. Quick drink in the bar and then Rice and Curry for dinner – just like being home again. Annemarie and I sorted through the clothes Ania and others had donated and put them into bags ready to distribute.

Saturday 15th March

We were up at 7.15 am for a swim - I did not sleep very well as I had tried to download my pictures onto the computer but did not manage it and really thought I had lost them all – got stupidly upset and stayed up till 1.30am totally knackered trying in vain to work it out. SO went to bed and didn’t sleep at all!

Never mind – onwards………breakfast and various people arrived in reception. It’s good to know the jungle drums are in good working order! Couldn’t hide here ever! Gamage came about her electricity connection, which is 58 thousand rupees! WOW I only pay 15,000 for connection usually. Kuda came to the rescue and explained to her that I could only give the same as everyone else NO more. She will get a grant from the council for 20,000 and will have to find the rest herself.

My lady came for some money for her varicose vein treatment and some ladies from another Montessori school. I explained that I was up to the hilt with projects and unable to help at this point.

We drove to Talpe and loaded the van with Chaini, Indika, Rosaro the machine expert and his friend and of course Irene and David. Set off for Martara where we managed to find the machines and spare needles, arranged for immediate delivery, paid and then drove to a couple of disappointing fabric shops and headed back to Talpe to drop off the men and Irene and David.

Annemarie, Chaini and I went to the Arpico and the place next door where we manged to get a desk and chair and some things for the kitchen. Manjari was next on the menu – stools, iron and 2 boards, kettle, tea pot and mugs. By the time we left it was HEAVING down with rain.


Great fun trying to get the van up the slope at the workshop – even tho we were ALL leaning forward – it was disappointly NO GO – still Prasad gave the engine on his van a good work out! Move over Andy Priaulx!


 We walked into a hive of activity as Rosaro was gamely putting the benches together – rather him than me – it was all so complicated. He has worked at a garment factory and so knows all the workings very well – we are so lucky! We left him to it and went out into the rain again. Irene and David passed over all the bags they had been storing at home and we set off for the Lighthouse for a well earned massage. It was lovely and I nearly floated away in relaxation.

Back to the hotel and Nilanthie came to see us with her lovely little boy! He is SO cute. Annemarie brought out all the pressies we had for her – she was delighted. I explained about the meeting in the village tomorrow and she readily agreed to come and speak to the villagers about the new venture. She will meet us tomorrow at 1.30pm and we will show her the way.

Sunday 16th March

Swim first thing.

Damith arrived so I asked him to quote for a chicken coop and chickens for Induwathi and the ground floor of the Montessori. Disna came to ask for a spice grinder – I told her to go and get a quote.

 Prasad came at 8.30 and we set off for Deepa’s house – arrived at 9.10 and no one was there. Soon Sandamali and her mum arrived followed closely by Deepa, Nuwan and the little girls. They have not moved in – they are waiting for me to be at the `opening ceremony’ ! We had a cup of tea and soon took to the road again to collect Rasika from his friend Manjula’s house. We saw several different houses and bits of land. First was a house on the road, which I instantly disliked. It was damp, grotty, in bad repair and was 10 lac £5,000 ish. I just got a really bad feeling about the place. Annemarie did’nt like it either and it went to the very bottom of our list! And we hadn’t even started. Next was a semi finished house – it needed windows and doors and plaster but felt good and was nice and spacious inside. The exterior garden was ideal too with good flat space. This was set a little way from the main road and it seemed that Rasika had his mind set on a shop actually on the main road. A/M and I suggested that we might think of a tuk tuk that had been adapted for a disabled driver. Strangely he did not seem to jump at this in the way BOTH of us expected. He had driven one before the accident albeit without a permit. The next was a house RIGHT next to the railway line and given that Rasika had his accident on the track it certainly did NOT do anything for me! It was large, in bad condition and down a bumpy track. Price 12 ½ lac, prices are going up as we speak! Not value for money at all!
We told Rasika to have a chat with Lasika and Manjula over night and see if they could come up with some sort of idea of what would be practical and useful. We went to Irene and David’s so I could do the measurement and photography of Rasika’s limbs. As I suspected he was very supple and his hips were very mobile. What could have been very embarrassing for him was all over very quickly and with the minimum of fuss. All caught on film by Sunil. I paid Sunil to do this for me. All we needed was a record of Rasika’s mobility. It was about 3 mins long and the great thing is that it does not need to be edited.

Took the boys back and met Chaini who wanted more cash to get some more essentials.

Collected Nilanthie from the bus stand in Galle and drove to the village to find the assembled crowd waiting. I spoke to them to tell them of our plans to set up a sewing workshop and employ a few people from the village and that we hoped to expand in time. I told them that our Charity would not benefit from this and that any profit from the business would benefit the village for general projects – the most important being the drains. Nilanthie translated and also explained to them all that were it not for Chaini we would not be there at all.
I asked Nilanthie to ask them to ask us questions if they wanted to – various members stood up and proceeded to thank us all for the school bags, food parcels – one lady even said she was still using her tea from Christmas! They were keen to tell us that they appreciated Chaini’s help to them all. They all seem very sweet and then commenced some vigorous hand shaking.

One lady then arrived with a tray of tea.

Next we left for the workshop to find all the women sitting at their machines testing them out. Rosaro was still there and helping to show the ladies how to use them.

We dropped A/M back to the hotel and Nilanthie home and Prasad and I went to see Sandamali and her family. She was very teary and explained that as prices had gone up so much the shop was very empty as people were being very careful with their shopping. She asked me if I could get her a good job. Father is still doing labouring and there is not much money coming into the house. Mahesh is unable to work as he is so unfit. I advised Sandamali to try for back office in the hotels. We managed to buy a clock on the way back – it is important for an Opening ceremony to have a new clock!

Monday 17th March

Early start, at 7.30 so no swim.

Factory opening today! Stopped at the Lighthouse for an upmarket pee stop on the way. Arrived at the Workshop just as everyone had gathered. The monks were there – the one from the village and also the big cheese from the local Temple – bless him he had a cold and there was a lot of snorting and blowing of his nose throughout the chanting. Irene commented at the end that it was lovely that they went to so much trouble – but all on a shoe-string. We were all presented with beautiful


 flowers
on entering the building and then I had to cut the ribbon into the sewing room.

The monks started the ceremony and I encouraged a beautiful little girl to come and sit with me. She must have been around 3 years old. She knew all the words and chanted along with the rest. When it was over the monks blessed the string and we all had the ‘string bracelet’ that is so customary here. Next was tea and a local sweet delicacy for the ceremonial breakfast. All done and we set to, to try and work out all the designs and start the girls making up patterns.

 

There was a lovely lad from the next village who was doing the cutting for us – he has a job lined up in Colombo as I had asked Chaini to offer him the position (the lady who was given the job did not show up) He said that he would help us when ever he could and would teach Indika about the machines. He was VERY good value and we would have been very stuck without him!

 

Irene, David and Indika took off in the van to get some necessary items and Annemarie and I went thro all the patterns with Chaini. We are making a pattern book of bags so all the girls will know which is which and also each one will be made in Calico as a sample to work from. The room was a hive of industry and everyone seemed to be pulling

 together.

The cupboard for Chaini’s office arrived and very soon the place will be ship shape! The cutting machine was making a very satisfactory buzzing noise and the lad was cutting huge piles of callico!. I explained that we must make use of all the scraps – they can be made into little purses and jewellery containers too.

All the girls had got together and told Chaini that they did not want to take 1 hour for lunch but only ½ an hour as they were so happy that we are helping them! Wow….. I can’t believe that …………..that is SO refreshing! What a lovely start.

Went to the Fort for lunch with Irene and David and they showed us somewhere new – we all had a toastie and yummy chilled coffee.

Suitably refreshed we headed for the internet café – said goodbye to Irene and David and I had 10 CD’s made up with the various logo’s on. Met Indika and went to the screen printers. He will do a sample for us to check at 10am tomorrow. Next we went into a fabric shop where we had ALL 300 staff in attendance! We bought some beautiful fabric and got great discount on the basis that we would be back if they treated us well. They told us that the shop had 11 feet of water in it after `tsunami’.

On the way back we saw some lads playing cricket on some waste ground - Annemarie had spotted them the day before – we stopped and gave them some bats – ‘thank you for your overwhelming help for Sri Lanka cricket’ was the response! AAHHH.

 

We stopped at Boossa beach side where we found Christie and a gaggle of men erecting a large tree trunk – he is trying to build a little restaurant. His uncle has given him some land and he has all his mates helping for free.! Raj was there with a digger too! Good on him – just hope he can make it work.

Namali and Nilmini were there to say hello when we got back to the hotel and also Susila with her electricity application form.

Spoke to Miss Kamila from the Mahamaya school and she will come and see me Wednesday at 8am. Went for a curry at Home Grown with Sunil and he told us about his financial predicament. Apparently he did not renew his visa after I had given him 15,000rps, of my own money, towards it at Christmas but instead blew it. His air ticket had run out of time and he had not called to change it.

Tuesday 18th March

Damith came first thing with the quote from the school – I told him it was too much and what I would pay for it. Told him to go away and think about it. We agreed a price for a fence around Induwathi’s house and also for a chicken coop and 6 chickens. He will start today. Went into Galle in search of buttons – no luck! Met Indika at the screen printers and Mahinda had done a fab job on the Specsavers Logo.
 

We agreed that he would complete 200 by tomorrow at 11.30 and we would bring more bags for him to start – he said they will not be ready till Saturday as there are 2 holidays Thursday/Friday. Typical – just my luck! Never mind we are doing ok so far!

Gave Indika a new phone as he will need one! Sent Indika shopping for more things Chaini needs and Annemarie and I went shopping on the Fort.

We went to a shop Annemarie had found at Christmas – had a funny time bargaining with them. I managed to get a beautiful pendant and matching ring! They are stunning, and both of us agreed we were very drawn to them! Next we called at Millenium for Annemarie to see her order but he had made tie pins with a slide bar and not a brooch pin – they were beautiful but not what she wanted – still I bought them instead! Next to collect from the other jewellery shop.

Chaini called periodically for reassurance that she was doing the right thing! She sent Indika to us with 2 samples – one of the man bag and the other the 3Dshopper. We made minor adjustments and he zoomed off back to Walahanduwa. It was meant to be that Annemarie bought them that bike at Christmas!

We had a quick lunch and the headed back to Hikkaduwa. On the way through the village we stopped at the Coconut Shop. Found some lovely fabric and asked them to make me a bag – it will be the sample for our very own Monkey Bag – minor adjustments will be made by us!

To the supermarket to make up 4 food parcels.

First was Premedasa – he was at the hotel waiting for us for 3 hours! Bless him he has no money and is clearly starving – lost even more weight if that is possible! What to do?? Told him to go home quick and then we would call with some food. Actually gave him food and some money for kerosene, courtesy of Kit an Penny Stevens He showed us all his tablets for high blood pressure – but he still has a smile on his face bless him!

Next was Nilmini – the council have made a new road going around the swamp which is great as when the monsoon comes they do not have to wade through mud. Next to Nimal – also on the new road and saw the daughter looking much perkier and slimmer. She was different all together. I asked to see her school books – they were very neat and with good marks too! We gave them some clothes and a cuddly toy for the daughter! Much laughter ensued! That is great as I was worried that the daughter would switch off all together. Next across the swap to Lerathana who looked pregnant again! Not for definite but looked suspiciously like it! The baby was really sweet and Annemarie gave some clothes and toys from Vicky in Jersey. Baby LOVED the fabric train and got stuck in straight away chewing and dribbling nicely!

 

Straight off to Mahathun’s where Dilmini was waiting in the road for us. He has a job on a concrete lorry that delivers to the south East coast. He is a little scared, because of Tamil Tiger activity in the area, so stays in the truck. The truck then brings back rice. Odd combination!

 

Next we went to Disna’s to take the pressies from Rob! Pasidu was very pleased and I read out the letter for Prasad to translate to them. He seemed really thrilled and both he and Tharushi listened carefully and loved the photos Rob had printed into the letter.

 

Pasidu’s top was very smart and Tharushi had a very colourful blue dress that fitted a treat. The fence is finished and they are happy. Disna would like a grinding machine but the prices are very high and without sponsorship I cannot commit at the moment. We managed to do some ‘UN SHOPPING’ as Annemarie calls it – this is when we GIVE out things we have bought! We gave some shoes, clothes and toys for the little cousins.

Chaini called to tell us that the lawyer – otherwise known at `Mr Long Name’ called to say the company has been registered and we can collect the papers from him on Monday!

He has the most wonderful name : - Jothirathna Kadirahettiarachchi - try saying that when you’ve had a few – or even when you haven’t !!

Back to the Hotel and Annemarie checked her phone which is at the bottom of her bag. After a call she discovered that poor Kerry, her daughter, had been admitted to hospital yesterday with suspected appendicitis – always when one is away from home ! After another call later when she spoke to Kerry it seems that she will be released today. Phew – lucky she seems to have a great boyfriend who has given support!

Wednesday 19th March

Swim first thing. Miss Kamila came to the hotel at 8am

 

so I gave her the presents from Miss MacDonald at Ladies College. She seemed very pleased and told me that the school was due to move next month. She asked if I could provide some decorations for the new office. I told her that I could not from the Charity but if she wanted to write to Ladies College I would take the letter for her.

We stopped at the bike shop to order 3 bikes and then called into the family with the child with Kinky Hair Syndrome’ for those who do not know it is the most TERRIBLE illness. I first met this child 15months ago. He is now 4 and is so thin he looks like he will snap. His chest is caved in and breath comes in rasping stabs – he is abnormally long and thin. He was on the bed on his back with both arms out to the side – he cannot move and has NO motor skills at all. The sight was devastating and I found myself fighting for breath…………….he is so young and has no quality of life or ANY prospect of getting better. The poor parents, it must be all consuming for them! They asked if I could help to build a shower that was private with a shelf so they could lay him down to wash. They have a relative who will do the work free and just needs the tools and materials. I told them to get a quote and call me as soon as possible.

Onwards to the Montessori and the more positive sight of young children full of life and laughter. The little mites are so cute – there is

 

a whole new intake and it was strange not seeing the little ones I had become so attached to. Little singing session for us with much swinging of hips on the part of the girls and the boys doing what boys do best – messing about! We managed to wind them up to a wild hysteria and then we left! They must curse us when we go. Still brightens up the day a little – and that’s just for us!

Prasad had gone to get the men for the bikes and we duly gave 2 out to a labourer and a carpenter. I told the carpenter that I may call on him for

 some work soon!

Next we drove to Galle to meet Indika at the screen printers _ he was not there and the shop was shut ! oh dear……..Indika arrived a few minutes later to tell us the man could not produce the Specsavers printing until 2.30pm hey ho Sri Lanka time……again.

We went to the Workshop to find a hive of industry. It was also very chaotic so Annemarie and I set to and tidied up. We cleared all the rubbish and made some temporary tables for the fabric that was already cut up. Once the mess was cleared things settled down a little – poor Chaini she had obviously been up long hours – she is taking the whole thing very seriously but I am a little concerned that she will make herself ill!

All the while this was going on Annmarie’s shoes were lunch for a little ratbag of a dog! They were NEW and her favourites too! Prasad casually informed us as we discovered the terrible crime that ‘oh yes the dog ate them’ ha ha. Annemarie was not amused…………strange it did not go for mine………………maybe not………….they are old and knackered!

 We were both feeling a bit crabby so went for a very late lunch which included chips and chocolate……………..not comfort food or anything! Felt MUCH better after that.

Went to Millenium man’s shop to see Annemarie’s stock pin. VERY lovely it was – beautiful Amethyst stone set between 4 quartz stones on a silver bar. Great success! She ordered 4 more and he gave us each a beautiful quartz stone as a present!

We went to Arpico for chairs another table and some bigger bins for the girls finished work. Drove back to Walahanduwa with all the bits and bobs to find EVERYONE working like Trojans.

 

We checked quality and made decisions to tweak designs, checked invoices, gave Chaini help with working out day rates – overtime- `poya `day pay etc. All are keen to work over the holiday period.

Left at 7pm with a bag full of bags.

Hotel to see Damith and give him some money to start the school building - then Rice and Curry and bed! Heaven……………………………………………………………………Exhausted………………zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Thursday 20th March

Swim and then Disna was here to see me after breakfast. She didn’t look too good and told me she had terrible toothache. We discussed the spice grinder and I told her I would look at the one she had found in Galle next time I am there.

ATM for some cash and then to meet Sarath at the bike shop. He is a 40 year old labourer.

Supermarket for food parcels – then on to Gamage – it was all very tidy outside.
Ishara was at Montessori at a concert. I have told Gamage that I will give her 15,000 for the electric just like all the others. Her bill is 53,000 and has 20,000 promised from someone else. She seems to think I will make up the difference but I have told her it would not be fair on all the others as if theirs is more they make up the difference.

Next was Erish – this house was spotless too – like a new pin. Gave Jayanthie and Gunedassa the money for the water connection. This is instead of a well. They cannot have a well as they are too close to a swamp which has waste leeching from the tip up the road – so mains water is the only option. The only clean well is far down the road. Gave Jayanthie vitamins from Healthspan, Erish had some books and Dad some shorts and teeshirts.

 

They are a lovely little family and always so grateful for any LITTLE thing you do for them.

Gearde was next, Rangani has not had the baby yet and was a little wheezy. She told us that she is to be admitted on Monday to the maternity hospital – there was some confusion as to when she will actually have the Cesear section.

 

I gave her my number and asked her husband to call me when she has it. Rasmi and Huryani where there FULL of smiles which was nice as they were all a bit sick at Christmas. Gave Rangani the inhalers from the Rohais Pharmacy. Huryani has started big school and looked so proud when her mum told us. She is a little cutey and her big sister is truly

 beautiful.

Next visit was the Charles family – all but Dad were there – he was working – good on him. We gave them an assortment of toys books and shoes. Vitamins for Mum.

I collected my ‘monkey’ bag from the Coconut Shop and she was making a second one so I bought that too! Matching purse as well. Lime green and iridescent purple – really eye catching!

Next we managed to find the fabric shop where the owner has a loom and makes all his own fabric. Bingo this could be great for us! He had some beautiful stuff and we bought several pieces. He showed us the loom working – he was in the middle of a striking orange and pink piece.

Hotel for lunch where Dave and Irene joined us – Irene loves the tea shop in Hikkaduwa and was stocking up before their return to Spain. Supermarket for more food.

Drove past the Government fabric factory but it was closed. We will go next week.

Called at the mini Montessori by the train track but the Principal was not there – we left some gifts and said we would call back next week. She had taken the children to the zoo! I hate to think what that is like!

Next to Chandana’s with a food parcel. Oldest sister had the baby on the 1st March and called her Malathi – result we have a girl baby – most of the clothes we have are for girls and all my families so far have had BOYS! We will go and see her next week – as the house is so bad she is staying at her husband’s family house in Ambalangoda. They have knocked down the old house and rebuilt a timber one but it has caused trouble with the land owner – he lets them stay there free at the moment. He wants them out and he has even taken father to court! We must find land urgently for them and then it would not be such a problem.

 Supermarket for a food parcel for Rani – the blind lady. The roof is leaking – apparently Kuda had helped with the electrics. The granny was so sweet and nearly moved to tears of gratitude! Kept saying ‘Good morning and good night’ bless her.

Phoned Guernsey Freight and Mark Savident said he had had the quote from shippers! The Boss had made the decision we wanted to hear – they WILL ship the first 1,000kilos FREE! I am delighted – this will make a huge difference to us in terms of setting this project up properly! WOW it is such good news they are prepared to donate that to us! Thank you GUYS!

Dinner at the Imperial Hotel – lovely food – Annemarie’s fav – shame about the tablecloths tho! The drinks are Very generous and the state of the tablecloths pales into insignificance after just ONE drink! Early night – heaven!

Friday 21st March

Early swim and then down to Workshop for a session on freighting issues, fabric matching for colours and planning for making bags in different styles. We will also talked about making bottle bags and scarves out of the chiffon material we have bought too.

Irene and David made the decision to bring their cat ‘Noisy’ and the kittens to go on the pay roll as Company Cat and kitties! (They are going back to Spain for a while) They will buy a plastic cage to get her used to the area and hopefully Chaini’s Dad will nurture them and they will see off the roof rats!

Gave Chaini some Petty cash money so she can get zips and any other emergencies. We agreed that the girls would have breakfast on us as they were starting work at 7am! Their choice to cover Public Holiday i.e. Sinhala New Year which has come on us very soon after the start. Next year it will all be different!

Irene and David left as they were having a friend, Nigel O ‘Shea, from Sri Lankan airways for tea and they said they would ask him if we could take more luggage back with us this time!

Lunch and a quick dip into the Government shop for a few scarves in lovely colours.

Prasad took us to collect Rasika and Manjula.

We drove down to between Unawatuna and Talpe to see 3 different pieces of land – the first was great but at 55,000 rupees a perch is was way beyond my budget – we pay 30,000 rupees max! The owner was collected and I tried my BEST to get him to drop the price based on the fact that we were all helping Rasika! He was having none of it and told us that he owned 180 perch as his wife’s dowry! What a mean man…………….I asked him if he would consider selling it for 40,000rupees and that was after he had dropped to 51,000 rupees – he thought he was doing us an enormous favour……….what a skinflint! Did’nt like him.

 We had seen 2 other pieces of land that were next to swamps and I MEAN swamps! They smelt bad and as soon as the monsoon rains come they will all flood badly! He is very greedy and thinks he can get this ridiculous price! Dream on is all I can say! Bought the boys some fish on the way back and I gave Manjula a little cash for being so helpful.

 Back to the hotel – to find it heaving with locals all here for a party tonight.

We went to Prasad’s for dinner.

Took the lap top and showed the children (all 6 of them) the pictures I had on file of Prasad. The 4 year old boy was a wonderful source of entertainment giving a running commentary about Uncle Prasad – interspersed with gales of laughter.

 

It was very good value and he kept us all laughing for most of the evening. He did a very good impression of Prasad on a piece of gym equipment – even lying on the floor to demonstrate in full. The littlest girl was completely enthralled with all the pictures.

Had a yummy meal and then gave all the children the M &M’s in a bowl –they were really cute.

Then the last 6 glow sticks left over from last time.

Great fun – will have to put the AC on extra speedy to cut out the noise of the party tonight!

Saturday 22nd March

Early swim cold but looks like it will be a lovely day. Straight to the Internet café – Annemarie photocopied all the receipts for the workshop and I emailed the bag logo to Colombo for the label printing. Emailed Gary to ask him to do some new letterheads with Bags of Appeal as Chaini needs them for the invoices for shipping.

Collected Mr Chandana and went to see several pieces of land. The first I really liked and it was 20 perches for 40,000 per perch – we had the idea that Rasika could have a house here too. Lovely area but Chandana senior did not look too impressed. Next was a beautiful piece in a cinnamon field – owned by a company and very cheap at 3 lacs – the downside is that it is a little far from everywhere – back of Pinkanda. Next was a 17 perch piece for 425,ooo – again lovely – too big – however we have asked the sister of the owner whether she will sell only 10 of the 17 perch to us and if not maybe we could buy the whole piece and eventually build 2 houses on the site – one for the sister, husband and new baby and one for the rest of the girls and Dad.

While we had Dad in the van we asked him to show us where his eldest daughter was living with the new baby. It was very close by and in no time we were there. It was a VERY simple house sitting in the MIDDLE of a large swamp. The baby was TINY but very sweet and fast asleep on

 the bed.

We asked father why she had come here and he told us ‘because there are better facilities here’ - oh my word – better? Well better than the shack they are living in but not SO much better. It really makes you realise again and again how we take so much for granted.

This family are delightful and clearly love having the baby but they are busting out with their own family of mum, dad, granny, 2 sisters and husbands and 2 children! Gave some gifts to as many as we could – unshopping – again – very satisfying! And gave lots of bits for the new baby too. The little cousin was around 4 and we gave him a cricket bat – he was THRILLED and gripped it tightly flailing it around! The tennis ball will soon be in the swamp! I give it around 5 mins max!

After a drink of King Coconut we left and returned to the hotel for a breather.

The sun was shining so I took the opportunity to have an hour on a sun bed and a swim in the pool. Lovely.

Prasad came at 2.30 and we left for the supermarket.

Popped into the bike shop but no joy we need 5 girly bikes! Bought 2 food parcels and set off for Chandrika. Nisanthala and Sharnika came belting down the path – obviously heard the van engine! Gave a few clothes and some sweeties too. The new husband had done a GREAT job with the garden. It is all neat – clear of rubbish, and the veggies are all fenced off. They have put a water tank on top of the loo with a tap – brilliant – showed some initiative. She showed us the chickens – there

 are now 40! Result.
 

Several baby chicks – 3 roosters etc. I am really pleased as I was a little worried about the new husband but he has proved his worth.

Next we went to see Kumari and Thushara – they were ½ way down the path as we arrived! Maybe Prasad needs to get a new van to throw people off the scent! They all seem to know the engine noise! Lovely lovely, as usual and desperate for us to stay longer.

Said our goodbyes and left to collect Nilanthie. Stopped on the way at a welding shop to explain the type of shelving we need for the workshop. Drove to the muddy house and Nilanthie worked out, with the family, where all the boundaries are! They have started to build a very small 2 roomed house which I have agreed to finish. The access is a nightmare – down a very small track – no truck for Damith. Nilanthie was brilliant at explaining that the well would not have clean water EVER as long as it was situated next to the toilet.

 

We will have to investigate a pump well I think. I will get Damith to go and do a quote for me.

Met Sunil at Blue Note and I told him that I could not help him any further as he had let his ticket and visa expire with out changing or renewing them. He was not too happy and I left.

Sunday 23rd March

Early swim and then Prasad arrived at 9am. Annemarie went to do a food parcel while I printed the Bags of Appeal letter heads out for Chaini.

Went to the ATM and then off to Pooja’s to deliver the parcel. She looked very healthy and bounded out to see me putting her arms around me and saying ‘hello mummy’! ahh she looks SO well and happy. Looked at her and her brother’s school books – Raj told us he was going to get a job in a bigger fishing boat next month.

Next visit was the workshop and we found a totally calm atmosphere. Everything was clean and tidy and the girls were twiddling their thumbs as the power had been down for 2 hours – it went off yesterday too so we decided go to and see about a generator when we go into Galle as if this is a regular occurrence then we will be very stuck. Annemarie suggested that maybe the girls could do some hand sewing if the power went off again (we have some delicate fabric and we thought the girls would rather hand sew it as it would be difficult to machine work ) – this produced gales of laughter with Chaini doubled over – it seems we will have to wait till next year as the girls do not know how to hand sew!! They all found it highly amusing! As we were speaking the power came back on and it was all systems go again.

 

We left them to it and departed for Galle where we managed to get a plastic box shelf for the kitchen, a set of scales so we can weigh our suitcases and then we can give it to Indika to rig up a hook and sling so they can weigh the boxes for freighting. We also managed to get a Z bed frame for Chaini’s dad, the night watch man at the workshop, so he will be off the floor at night.

Met Irene and Dave at the Lighthouse where I was treating them to the Sunday Buffet to say thank you for ALL their hard work behind the scenes before I arrived. They have been truly fantastic and we definitely would not be at the stage we are without them! Lunch was good and then we sat out on the terrace and put the world to rights! They are returning to Spain on Tuesday and will not be back until the last week of August or thereabouts……….unless I can persuade them to come back before! I’ll have to work on that!

Annemarie and I had a very quick dip in the pool – for which the pool boy wanted to charge us 500rps! I told him we were having a spa treatment…..we wasn’t impressed but we didn’t pay! So cheeky - the day rate to use the pool is 1,5000!!! I couldn’t believe it! We had our massage and emerged relaxed and happy…….bliss
You don’t realise how much tension builds until after the massage is over! The level of work is pretty constant with long days and many hours bumping around in the van on bad roads, which plays havoc with backs and necks. Just an hour of massage is like a magic cure!

On the way back Prasad told us that the woman in Batapola who owned the land we want for Chandana’s family will not split the 17 perch however she is willing to drop the price. We agreed and asked if she could bring the deed to the hotel early tomorrow morning. We won’t hold our breath until Nilanthie has looked at the title! Been here before and been disappointed…..so watch this space.

Daya was waiting at the hotel and greeted us with a cuddle and beaming smile.

She looked really well and told me that Charini is 3 months pregnant with baby number 2! Being very morning sick…….poor thing……..I can sympathise! I gave her some more Glucosamine and bought a few pictures from her. She said that she had had some business in the last few days so she was happy. She is staying the night in the shop with her daughter tonight.

Monday 24th March

Another beautiful day today – the sea is calm and the sky blue. They say that the weather changes on Poya Day and up to now that does seem to be true. It was Poya last Friday and we had lots of rain – but since then the weather has changed and is hotter and calmer.

After breakfast the land owner for the land the Chandana family would like arrived with the deed and a friend who speaks English. Also in reception was the father of the little boy who is so sick with Kinky Hair Syndrome – he had the quote for the bathroom. I had asked him to get his brother in law to let us know how much the items were for the shower. It was all in Singhalla and the total was VERY expensive. I told him I would get it translated and let him know. I think that because they have a good quality house built for them after the Tsunami (which was right) I think they have gone for a top quality bathroom – I would be able to build nearly ½ a house with the amount they want. I am sure we can work something out but the price is definitely more than I can go to.

Next we went to the little school, Pathana, that I pass so often. It is indeed very poor and has absolutely no facilities at all. The male Principal P.Y Saman Pryantha was not there but the staff (who are all women) were only too willing to tell us everything about the school.

 

There are 89 students registered, 59 boys and 30 girls, but on looking on the register only an average of 60 attend each day. This is typical of a school that takes students from very poor families.

We managed after some encouragement to gather all the students and teachers too for a picture. Once we had taken a couple they got brave and all wanted a picture taken! There were some very cute, filthy dirty giggling little girls right at the front – irresistible!

There is no PE teacher so the children have no formal games session however the boys love to play cricket and have no equipment. We gave them all the remaining bats from the van, about 10 or so, and they fell upon them! Next thing we knew there was wild thrashing of tennis balls on the very basic ground in the middle of the school. The school is government funded! And was not Tsunami affected. It takes many students from the nearby orphanage - Baranasooryia Boys home. Currently there are 15 attending. There are also other orphans and many who have only either a mother or father.

 

They had been given 2 computers last month but they have no Internet connection. So much for the Government promise that all schools would be connected to the internet by the end of 2006!

This seems the ideal sort of place for the Guernsey Youth Cricket to be involved with. I hope they are interested as both Annemarie and I were very drawn to the place. The schools on the coast line have received so much aid now and these little schools just a couple of kilometers inside have nothing and are really struggling just to have the basic stuff never mind anything extra!

It seems the power is off again at the work shop so we are going to try and find a generator in Galle today. I will try and find out about something in Colombo too to compare prices. Rosaro says we need a 5kw one. Into Galle to discover they are very expensive – minimun £500 – wow that is going to dig into my budget! But we simply cannot afford to have the power cut off on a regular basis.

We called at the sports shop so we could get some stuff for the little school – we bought, well Annemarie wanted to pay, 2 footballs, 2 basketballs and a net, 3 badminton sets, and 10 tennis balls – can’t wait to see their faces!

We bought some antibiotics and some milk powder for the poor lady who had come to the hotel with her little baby – very undernourished. Next was the stationary shop for some supplies for the school, paper, crayons, and a world map as when we tried to show them where we are from they produced a knackered old thing that was falling apart. We also bought parcel tape and the tape applicator and an accounts book for Chaini. Also got a couple of dictionaries for Rasika.

Next was a quest for new cardboard boxes – very hard to find and all the ones we were shown were old food ones! Eventually we discovered the Ceylon Tobacco shop – old fag boxes! Oh dear, still they were sturdy and clean so I bought 31! They were 20 rupees but I managed the deal of the day 18 rupees each!! Whoo hoo – still as they say every rupee counts – especially if I have to get a generator!

Annemarie spotted a shop that said Freight forwarders so I went to see them – they pointed me to another of their branches down main street – bingo – this is the place. They told me that a truck would be 15,000rupees to deliver to the Port of Colombo and that it would take 20 tonnes! And the same price for just one tonne! The man said he would get me a quote for a smaller truck.

We were REALLY hot and sweaty by now – it was all very manic – we stopped for a snack while Prasad delivered the boxes, z bed and shelves to the workshop.

He collected Chaini and collected us to take us to the Lawyer – Mr Long name – Jothirathna Kadirahettiarachchi ………we met Irene and David and all trooped up to the office – Court Row in Galle Fort is ever so slightly different to our very own Court Row in Guernsey.

 

Mr Long name arrived after a short while and we crammed into his tissue box sized office!

Annemarie stayed outside in the searing heat and we took the temperature of the AC up by at least 10degrees! He was very helpful but because of the holiday weekend could not produce the forms we need! He will let us know as soon as they are available.

We all pile out into the dusty hot road and fell into the most wonderful gallery that renovates old furniture. There were some amazing trunks and cupboards – so tempting! We even discussed Annemarie getting one and filling it with bags! You could get thousands into it! Shipping was very cheap…….watch this space!

Nigel replied to my text to say he would try to get us extra baggage allowance on Sri Lankan…….good on him. Lots of action in Colombo on labels, boxes, generators, delivery of fabric to Galle etc. Thread is a little hard to find the right colours.

We took Chaini to look at fire extinguishers and also to get her a new top in Rich Look. Indika came to collect her and also pick up from Mahinda some more screen printed items.

Back to Hikkaduwa and a drink in the bar. We got chatting to Darshana who told us all about passports and visas which was very useful. I know I did it all with Daya but I have forgotten everything! Brain, what little there is left, has seized up.

Malanie called in to see me and ask if we would go and see some land for Nalamie – we agreed Wednesday morning at 9am.

We went for dinner at Refresh for a change from Rice and Curry. Funny I had rice again! Must be Sri Lankan! Back to the hotel and bed exhausted again!

Tuesday 25th March

Gamage arrived to tell me that she had already got 20,000 towards the electric – Kuda told me that Siri had given her 20,000 too – I told her I would give Kuda the 13,500 for the balance. A little lady arrived and Darshana translated for me – she had lost her house in Tsunami – I told her I would go and look at her circumstances in May when I came back.


 Prasad arrived at 9am and we went straight to the Kalupe school for a little concert they had done for us. It was outside under the trees, which was nice. Very sweet and VERY funny Annemarie said it was funny how there are always 2 – 3 girls who shine out as they are so confident and push themselves to the front when it comes to the dancing. We had a lovely time watching them enjoying themselves. While the girls were dancing there were a couple of boys having a full on wrestling match – all very good natured of course. Disna showed us her arm and wrist – very swollen – she has Rheumatoid Arthritis – looks really sore and her hand really shook when she showed us – poor thing. I told her I would give her some Glucosamine and she must take it everyday.

 

I also told her it would not be a cure but MAY help a little after about 3-6 months. Next we dropped into the NEW school to see Damith and the men – at last we have some progress – I am so aware that this project has been very slow to get going – however we have lift off, and there were at least 10 men all working hard. Great to see it started. Asked Damith to quote to mend the roof at Rani’s house – he said it would only take an hour or 2 and he would do it himself this afternoon. Also quote for the ½ built house but that the school was to take priority.

Popped into the bike shop but the new selection had not arrived yet!

Straight onto the Pathana School and met the male Headteacher.

 

The women had filled him in about us. We gave the sports gear we had bought and also crayons and paper. hopefully that will give them a little lift until I see if I can get them some support from home.

 

Bank was the next stop to change some dollars for Annemarie and to get a statement and cash for me.

Hotel next, to collect some clothes as we are planning a stopover down south in Marissa tonight. We have to be in Galle tomorrow and Marissa is the same distance the other side and we fancied a look down there as it always has good write ups in the travel books.

We popped in the jewellery shop and then had a very quick bite to eat. On to Manjula’s house to have a chat to Rasika about whether the family would be happy in Hikkaduwa. I am concerned that they will ALL be happy to live there. It was discussed and Rasika said that his mother was unwell and wanted to stop work and Lasika was nearly at the end of he studies in Matara. He has friends in Hikkaduwa and assured us that the family had discussed the move and were all happy. We asked about passports and he told us that he already had one. RESULT! We asked why and he replied that he got it just before his accident as he was planning to go and work in Dubai – great for us but also sad for him as his opportunity was snatched away from him in a cruel twist of fate.


Next we drove to Walahanduwa to find busy, busy people again! I asked Chaini to get one of the girls making some different items for me to take home on Friday – scarves, purses and evening bags etc. I think they will be pleased to do some thing other than calico! Very hot in the van as it seems the AC is leaking gas. We even resorted to opening the windows but the traffic fumes in Galle grab you by the throat after a while!

Drove to Marissa and to the Palace Hotel which looked promising but the cabanas were perched on top of a very steep hill with no access to the lovely beach below – all felt a little weird so we went back down to look at the Paradise Beach Hotel – the beach was gorgeous but the hotel was very grotty. We were not a little disappointed and decided to head back up north and stop at the Fortress in Koggala. I had heard a lot about it and thought it would be far too expensive. We arrived in darkness and walked through the HUGE wooden gates into a haven of calm and tranquillity. It was beautiful – and far too expensive………so just had a look at a lovely room and then opted for a cocktail………………lovely lovely but not for me when doing this work. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to have a holiday in Sri Lanka in a boutique hotel ……..you will not be disappointed……….the swimming pool even had tiny little blue lights in it like stars twinkling at the bottom. Beautiful.

We drove back up to Hikkaduwa and had rice and curry! YUMMY. Annemarie is showing signs of a very strange rash – she has several large lumps behind her ears and lots of smaller lumps on her arms………hope it is not going to develop into something horrid! She took a second Zirtek just in case. Then bed………………….night!

 Wednesday 26th March

The rash has developed during the night and now covers all her upper body – trying to think what we have done different and there does not appear to be anything obvious. I asked Bandara to call the Dr – who is supposed to come at 7.30 in about 20 mins. He arrived at about 7.45 with the standard nurse in tow. He seemed very nice and gave Annemarie a good examination – took her blood pressure and listened to her lungs. He said that it was an allergic reaction to too many bites on her upper body. Poor thing it is very itchy. He offered a steroid injection or tablets – she opted for the tabs. She can also take the Zirtek once a day and he prescribed some antibiotics in case she took the top of any of the lumps and they became infected. The nurse trotted off to the car and came back with the prescription! Now that’s what you call service! He thinks a couple of days and she will be fine again.

Malanie and Namalie were in reception so we went on a bit of a wild goose chase after land – but not knowing the boundaries and prices was a little frustrating. We took them to see the Cinnamon land which they seemed to like. We went into Gonnapinewalla and Malanie went into a shop where she knows the owner to ask about generator prices – they were scary! Next we dropped the girls and gave them money for a tuk and we drove to Chandana’s to let them know to be at the lawyer’s office tonight at 5pm.

Next I called at the `mini Montessori’ as we have named it! A little one had just been sick and was being sluiced under the tap. They did a little dance for me and we discussed what they needed. They really want English story books and wooden puzzles with lift out handles.

 

Promised that if it was not this time it would be in May! All very cute and cuddly little things.

Next I took the Glucosimine to Disna at Kalupe to find the children practising a song for the NEW YEAR concert!

Called into the family with the sick little boy. I had been given a quotation from the uncle for the materials for the new bathroom. It was a little scary and I explained that I could not spend the equal of ¼ of a house on a shower room! The uncle will come back with another quote.

Next to see Gunedassa and explain about the job I have for him painting Rani’s house. They were out. We drove to Gonnapinewalla and met Jayanthie (his wife) and little Erish on the road coming home from school. Her little face lit up when she saw us. Prasad explained to her about the job and she seemed really pleased.

Called Damith after we had bought the bikes to ask him to deliver to the Jungle shop girlies and the railway family’s girls too. Annemarie is buying Hemalatha’s 2 and Richard and Sarah Searle the railway family’s.

Back to the hotel to see how Annemarie is – still itchy but looks a `little ‘ better. Had a quick snack and then off to the ATM which was not playing ball and would only give me the minimum amount! Very irritating.

Took the paint and brushes to Rani’s and only daughter and granny were there. I gave a little pressie to their next door neighbour, Asanka, who is a room boy from the Coral Sands – he seems to have taken her under his wing a little. Next was the veg market to buy fruit and veggies for Susila Delivered them and she and Wasani were both there.

 


Wasani was wearing a very clean new dress and looked so sweet. She says the well water has settled and they now drink it.

Next onto the de Silva sisters – only the older one was there and was so excited to see me.

I spotted some lads in a huddle – opened the boot and took out one cricket bat – then `I got mobbed – did some serious unshopping!

Next was Nilanthie’s office and everyone arrived on time to sign the deed for the transfer to the Peris family.

 

None of them had their ID cards so they will have to show Nilanthie tomorrow. We were discussing who should be on the deed and decided each family member - `dad piped up that he would not go on it, just the girls, but we decided that all should have equal rights. The land owner seemed to be a very nice man. Malanie bought in the deed for some land so Nilanthie will check title for me before I go further. She told me that she had spoken to Chaini about the Contracts for the staff. She will finish it by tomorrow.

Next I went to Miss Kamala’s for tea – well coffee actually and very nice it was too. We discussed the money that had come from Ladies College and it seems they will buy 30 pairs of shoes and some jackets for their New Year concert. We talked about how good it would be to be in the new school building – it is costing 5 million rupees for the 1st phase

 alone!

We had dinner in Annemarie’s room and she seemed a little perkier which is good. Don’t like to think of her unwell – it is not nice when you are away from home. All the staff here are mortified that she is unwell so we are getting very good room service! I think I can feel a headache coming on……….. Early start tomorrow……………..6.25pm house opening! Ouch. Better hit the sack NOW!

Thursday 27th March

Rudely awakened by my alarm at 5.15am. Quick shower and change and into the van. As we headed inside at Rathgama to Deepa and Shelton’s new house, there was a strange kind of calm with the sunrise painting its red streaks through the coconut trees and the dewey mist over the paddy fields it was a beautiful scene. The calm before the hustle and bustle of the normal day.

Arrived to find the family’s worldly goods strewn outside the house.

 

The radio was BLASTING out a song which on asking why it was so loud at that time in the morning, I was told it is good luck and brings luck to all the family – that and burst your ear drums into the bargain. I persuaded them to turn it down just a little!!


There was much activity as the family all did their bit to prepare. The auspicious moment arrived at 25 minutes past 6 and the family trooped in with the water pitcher, a figure of Buddha, a ceremonial oil lamp. All but the water were put into the table and the family then prayed at the

 table too.

We had the breakfast of bananas, oilcakes, red rice etc and then I made my excuses and left.

Popped into Daya’s daughter’s shop on the way home to find Charini, Daya and one of her daughters there with the little boy – except he has grown so much now! They all looked well and chatted away.

Back to the hotel and found Annemarie having breakfast. The spots seemed to have multiplied in the night and are now further down her legs. We were trying to decide what to do and decided to call Dr Ragu the skin specialist in Galle. She could not see us until the afternoon at the earliest so Kuda said he would try and arrange it for us to be channelled with out actually going there (he has a sister working there) don’t want Annemarie queuing in all that heat! Poor thing the blisters are arriving on her face now.

We drove to get furniture to the usual place but all the things were either too expensive or out of stock. Went to a place in Dordanduwa and managed to get a side board and a double mattress that’s all!

Back to the hotel where I had a swim and Annemarie a little cool down before the hot afternoon journey into Galle. Chaini called to say that Mr `long name – the lawyer - wanted us in his office at 1.30pm.

He had all the papers – we are now an incorporated company – WHOO HOO – so exciting!

We showed him the sample bags – Nilanthie called in while this was going on so she too could have a look. They liked what they saw! While he was explaining all the papers Annemarie when to see Millenium man to collect her stock pins. He asked her about our bags – great that means we must follow that up! We went to the Board of Export Development to see Prasad Daluwatta – he was a very nice man and extremely impressed with our quality! He has given the stamp of approval and the form we need for Colombo to gain the all important ‘tin number’ – we need this for export!

Next was the bank and after some discussion we opened a joint bank account in Chaini ‘s and my name. The cheque book will be ready tomorrow. We decided to head back to see Millenium man as we had Chaini in the van – I wanted to introduce her to him. He was well impressed with the Specsavers bag and wants local prices. I have told him I will let him know as soon as we have worked it out. He thought there would be serious local interest in our products. We nipped to the Galle Fort for a coffee and slice of cake as neither Annemarie or I had lunch as we were not hungry.

Next we shot over to the Ruhunu Hospital as we had an appointment for Annemarie at 4pm. We discovered that Dr Ragu was not coming till 5pm. We waited in the cool van and at 4.55pm went back upstairs to find the room heaving. As we turned to leave, as if by magic – we turned almost into Dr Ragu – what a stoke of luck – we followed closely in her wake and squeezed in the door before anyone could even notice. She was lovely and confirmed that it was almost certainly an allergic reaction to bites – phew – relief, as I know Annemarie has been worried about it being something catching. She gave some better medicine – stronger so hopefully it will subside over night.

Back to the hotel and a drink before a light dinner in the bar. Kuda joined us and told us some more tales of his Tsunami experiences – brings you back down to earth when you hear these heart wrenching stories. We have NO conception of what they have been through - the scars will lie with them forever. There are tales of bravery and tales interwoven with guilty feelings. Those who ran compare themselves to those who stayed to help. How can we criticise any of it as we do not know how we would react in those terrible moments. All so very sad.

Nilanthie arrived and she bought with her the draft contracts for the girls for my approval. She has done wonders and is such a fantastic find for us. She obviously loves to help us – but she is very generous with her time also. I told her that I want to market in Colombo also – she says she knows someone important in Barefoot and also another store in the city. I mentioned I would like to see the MD of ODEL too. She said that she would come with me to meet them in May! Result……..we really need to target the local market too!

Hope Annemarie is better tomorrow – very miserable for her but she coped really well today in the van with all the to-ing and fro-ing!

Big day tomorrow – lots of loose ends to tie up before we leave! 10.30pm so better hit the sack now – especially after my early start to day – don’t know where the hours go………………

Friday 28th March

Annemarie much better this morning which is a relief – it has not gone but is a little less inflamed although still itchy.

Straight to the bank for my new cheque book and then to Rani’s house to see what Gunedassa had done in the way of painting and clearing. The house had had a lick of white inside and out and looked a little better and not quite so dingy.

 

The rubbish was still around and I asked Prasad to tell the daughter how important it was for them all to be in a cleaner environment. Whether that will sink in remains to be seen!

Internet was next to photocopy more receipts for Chaini

Next we managed to see the Government fabric factory – what a surprise we got – there were 3 women – one working a cronic old loom and 2 just not doing much at all really, there were 3 old singer machines. I was expecting a hive of industry and buzzing machines!

 

There were 3 0r 4 old knackered looms – that set me thinking……….dangerous………..what if we bought an old one and had it renovated…………and then we could make our own fabric too!! Maybe later…….whoa girl…….! Watch this space.

They told us of another place in Rathgama so we went hot foot down there too. Annemarie and I were like kiddies in a sweetie shop – they had beautiful fabrics and lots of it too.

 

We bought a lovely selection and drove on to the Maternity Hospital to go and see if we could get in to see Rangani and her new baby with Annemarie muttering darkly that it better be a boy as we had one bag of lovely bits for a baby boy and if it was a girl……………..mutter………..well we will just hope! Prasad did not think we would be allowed in as it was not visiting hours but I thought we would give it a go. Well we found ward 30 and there were around 16 beds crammed into a tiny room – there was about 1 foot between each bed and was hot and smelly. We spotted poor Rangani – tired and obviously in pain from the op but smiling when she spotted us. The baby was – guess what – a boy – phew otherwise I would not have heard the end of it! LITTLE dinky thing – he was so tiny and delicate.

 

AAHH guaranteed to make us all go gooey! We didn’t stay long but handed over the bag of clothes which I am sure will be treasured! Told her I would see her in May. They do not name the babies for sometimes 3 months as in tradition the name must be chosen according to the Horoscope and the Monk is needed to guide that process.

Drove in Galle and found the place heaving with youngsters. There was a cricket match between 2 very strong schools - Richmond and Mahinda. The kids were putting up posters and banners everywhere.

 We had a snack at The Oriental Hotel and one of the staff showed us one of the bedrooms – beautiful understated elegance! They had been full as there was a wedding party taking over the place. The couple got married in the next door Dutch Church and had the rest of the celebration in the Hotel.

Next to the Commercial Bank to collect the new cheque book for Bags of Appeal.
Next to Manjari to get Passidu and his little sister pressies from Rob. Annemarie bought some puzzles and story books for the Mini
Montessori.
Next we went to the Workshop as we needed to do various jobs. We packed bags into my grip bags – weighed them. Worked out how many boxes would be packed onto a pallet. Our Colombo agent came with more thread and supplies that Chaini needed. The heat was immense and I was aware of the time slipping away – still we manged to take the last few bags that were in production while we were there. We had 200 bags for Specsavers , 100 each for Alliance and Co-op and 30 for

 Creasey’s.

Bags packed and we said our goodbyes – the tears flowed from Chaini and I am sure she is feeling that she will be so alone without us physically there however I have EVERY confidence in her and her clear ability. She will not be alone as Nilanthie, Mr Long Name and our Colombo agent have all said they will support her wherever they can.

We popped to see Disna only to discover that she had gone to the hotel to see us! Gave the children their gifts from Rob
 

and then on to the Jungle shop - only Marshika was there and she was VERY thrilled with her bike from Annemarie


 

We arrived back at the hotel to a reception of Malanie and Namalie and Disna and Tharushi. Malanie said that Namalie’s husband had hit her this morning and she was frightened. Disna offered for them to stay with her – which showed a true generous spirit. I am unable to do anything else at the moment and will try and resolve things in May.

 Next Nilanthie called with the contracts for the girls and Chaini and Indika for me to approve and sign.

We did all that and then I went up to pack. It seemed such a daunting task as so much space had been taken up by the bags. I had 90 kilos in weight and if nigel has struggled to get us more allowance I could be looking at a big excess baggage bill! I seemed to get hotter and hotter – even with the AC but time was rushing by and before I knew it it was 8.40 and I had not even had a shower. We were due to leave at 9pm ……aaarrgghh - hopped into the shower and nearly scaled myself – NO COLD WATER. Oh well – I will just have to smell. Manage to wash of sorts and flew downstairs to pay the bill.

 

Annemarie seemed so cool and calm which was just as well as I was so het up! Once in the van and I started to cool down…………………….half way up to Colombo and the rain and lightening started with a vengence. Poor Prasad having to drive in that.

Made it to the airport in a little over 3 hours Pretty good considering. Checked in and had time for a quick cuppa in the lounge before being called to go through on time. The plane left on time and we were soon winging our way back to London.

What a trip – firstly I must thank Irene and David for doing so much behind the scenes work before I arrived, in finding the building – overseeing the repairs, decoration, and electrics – their support is vitally important and I know that Chaini adores them both.

Huge thanks also to go to Annemarie as without her I defiantly would not have this project so far advanced – her ideas and work ethic is so similar to mine its scary – but she brings a whole different dimension to problems and has great ideas into the bargain – a real case of 2 heads are better than one! I have problems with my one! I really hope we can get Guernsey to adopt this project and push it ahead to create a successful happy workforce who will deliver quality items and provide for their own futures and help their own village folk into the bargain.