Malawians are at it again, confounding generalities preached about them by others. They constantly amaze us with their unabashed friendliness and ingenuity. It was a young Malawian village boy who created a working lightbulb and electrical hookup from a windmill made of scratch materials he’d collected. Yes, Malawians can make a plan. Even as our first impression of the country was a bit lukewarm, the Lake casts a magic spell over its guests. We couldn’t have known without taking the time; all the more reason to settle down for a spell (in any country) and discover for Malawi for ourselves.

Everyday dealings with Malawians are such a pleasure. If we attempt any greeting in Chewa they really go crazy – instantly switching to Chewa  as if we understand more than three or four words. Sit down at the Bao board and you’ll quickly be surrounded by players advising you which move to make – natives learn to play the game as little kids. Bao is meant to be a fast-paced game so when muzungus play, with our fat fingers unaccustomed to picking up little seeds or marbles, we really slow things down. Malawians are counting six or eight moves ahead and sowing their seeds so fast you can hardly see their hands. It will take time to become confident at Bao but time is on our side.

Back in April, in Namibia, we met up with Jared and Jen Simpson from Portland Oregon. They are overlanding Africa in their awesome customized Jeep that they brought from home – nice! We touch base from time to time, and somehow managed to cross paths with them at Fat Monkeys on Monkey Bay after nearly a year. For several days we had a proper visit, sharing stories and good laughs while becoming better acquainted. A snorkel trip to the island was a blast – the beach guys do a tasty grilled fish lunch while guests relax on the sand. . . in the shade.

Jared and Jen are on their way north after many months in southern Africa and Madagascar – good stories there – and I found myself a bit envious of their route. To be on the way north with all its wonders still to be seen – yes, what a treat Jared and Jen are in store for. And although we are headed in a southernly homeward direction we are far from finished with Africa. There’s still a bit more of Malawi to explore. Becalmed on the lake with plentiful sunshine, cool breezes, and a resident monitor lizard who visits in the morning, we will be here a couple more weeks. Then we will be ready to tackle Mozambique. Meanwhile let’s play Bao.