We flew from Toliara back to Tana for the weekend. Tosoa took 2 weeks off of work and together we explored the Madagascar countryside, trying to do a few things that tourists usually don't get to do.
But first we spent 2 days getting ready and hanging out in Tana. Picture 1 shows the Tana city bus station - it costs 16 cents to go from Tosoa's home outside the city to downtown, about a half hour ride. Picture 2 shows Tosoa with his parents - they are wonderful hosts and amazing people. We are very lucky to have gotten the chance to meet them and spend some quality time with them, and we are very grateful for their hospitality.
The next two pictures show what laundry day looks like here - they were taken on our way out of Tana heading back towards Antsirabe - we spent a few more days with Tosoa's aunt Farah and uncle Raymond (next post).
The wooden toy trucks being sold on the side of the road are great gifts for kids - Tosoa shared they are often given to young boys as a circumcision present. At first I wanted one, but after hearing that I quickly changed my mind.
Tosoa is also a software developer (like Caryl). In addition to his regular 9 to 5 he has started an organization that provides computers to villages called 5 CPV - 5 Computers Per Village. Right now there's only one such site that's up and running, though he has plans (and computers) for at least one more. We visited the active site and learned that the town hall is now keeping track of village business on the computers and no longer using just paper. I expressed concern about backing up data, but that will have to be worked out later.
In the same village we also visited with some brick makers who explained the process. Seems simple, but labor-intensive. They seemed pretty happy and cheerful and asked us to leave the pictures on the 5CPV computers so they could look at them later. People in Madagascar are often very excited to have their picture taken - I wish I had a way to get them their pictures. But without email or sometimes even a clear address it is pretty hard.
Caryl and Ania: All of your blog is SO interesting and unusual--I have SO many questions!!! I love that you are doing this, and I look at it much--also the map that I just learned about the last time we talked together and you told me how to use it. So now you have been away from the US for over 7 months! I really miss you !! Sending you lots of love, hugs and kisses! Mom
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