Rain Rain Go Away

I'm writing from Lilongwe, Malawi, which is surprisingly modern, and much differenty that any other African city we have been through.. It sort of feels like small U.S. college town; even went to a nice Italian restaurant last night (mushroom and bacon pizza, incase you were wondering).

The weather here is gorgeous. Sunny and probably about 90. Today is the first day in the last 2.5 weeks without rain. I (and I think most other riders are) am constantly in fear of whether or not it is going to rain. I think that waiting for the rain is worse than the actual rain itself. The biggest problem of course is drying out b/c even when it is not raining the air is so moist the clothes never dry properly and are damp. The rain has also sparked up some hostilities amongst the riders, which are so petty they are not worth writing about.

We have 29 more riding days left. Seems very doable, but I am sort of burned out. Physically my body is holding up relatively well. I am actually one of the stronger riders now, due both to me getting much much better, and also b/c many riders' bodies are deteriorating. The majority of riders over 40 are having trouble maintaining body weight, and many are just a shadow of what they were during Jan. But mentally, I'm completely exhausted. I'm numb to the scenery, and the novelty of camping everyday has faded into a pain in the ass. I'm generally fine with riding my bike for about the first 60% of each day, but the final 40% really wears me down. I'm hoping that part of the mental fatigue is due to the rain. Some riders are worn down more than me, and have already begun counting the days. My official policy is to not begin any sort of countdown until we reach Victoria Falls, but it is difficult when there are riders who tell you each day exactly how many riding days and km remain. Victoria Falls is also knows as the Africa's Adrenaline Capital, so I'll keep you posted as to what sort of crazy activities we do on our day off.

With only a third of the trip remaining, I'm also hoping that donations to Charity:Water will start pouring in!! (insert smiley emoticon). Thanks again to all who have donated (just over $3,000 so far). If you have not yet donated please consider doing so (www.gogoswami.com). I'm told that the April 9^th American Idol will have a piece on Charity:Water. Keep your eyes peeled.

Attached is a pic of me, and two of my close friends: Max (French Canadian) and Alex (German), on our rest day today.

Thanks for all the support.

Goose