Clara's gift

It was terribly unexpected and almost had me in tears.

During the speeches yesterday at the Launch there was much thanking going on, thanks to people for coming, thanks to everyone who'd been involved, thanks to VSO and thanks to me. Its very odd being talked about when you're sat right there and that would have been enough - I was just terribly pleased we'd got the whole thing this far.


But no, The BossLady asked the Minister if he'd be so kind as to present me with a gift from the Council. It was walked up the aisle by a secretary and handed over to someone who handed it to someone else who handed it to the Honorable to give to me. It wouldn't have been proper to rip open the wrapping right there and I was a little worried about what I might find inside so waited until home time when it was just me and the OfficeMate left.


I shouldn't have been so skeptical - inside were three packages. She explained that there had been a staff meeting (which explains the mysterious disappearence of everyone the other day!) and discussion about what to get.


The croc is because its a very strong animal and it represented my place in the NMC team

The clock to remind me that its better to run on Malawi time - that way you are never late for anything!




and the bag because the picture shows that Malawian women are always busy and doing at least 3 things at once.

Incredibly thoughtful - I was quite overwhelmed.