First Saturday, it's time for a road trip!

After a late start (Janek isn't sleeping too well so our nights still take a toll on us) we drove the 2 hours to the closest point on Lake Malawi, Salima/Senga bay:

 "The" guide to Malawi (of which we have 4 separate copies at the house, in various stages of use and editions) states that the only thing this place has going for it is its proximity to Lilongwe. That sounds really jaded to me, when you consider it looks like this:

 In addition to swimming in clear water and enjoying the beautiful views, I drove through FOUR police checkpoints and did not get pulled over even once. So, overall, winning! We passed by countless stands selling ripe tomatoes and bought some--Micah didn't bargain, even though it's expected here, because really, these people have nothing and 10 tomatoes were $1.60--and local crafts. There are handmade baskets galore, in all shapes and sizes, and handmade rugs woven from the same rushes or grasses from which the baskets are made. I wanted to buy them all but we didn't have space in the car so I'll have to plan better next time. If I worked for 10,000 Villages I'd be all over this stuff!

I'm sure I'll be writing many other posts about the lake, because it's close enough for a quick trip and big enough that we won't be able to explore all of it. Janek liked it!