Hello from a somewhat rainy Clarens......

I have arrived in Clarens! I had a difficult journey - I had to repack at the airport as I wasn't allowed to take all my luggage, and then the flights - there were 2, one to Dubai, then one to Jo'burg - were inevitably exhausting. I have decided that direct or nearly direct flights are worth the extra money. By the time I arrived in Clarens I hadn't slept for about 36 hours.

I have had a good first few days - there have been low moments though, so I'd appreciate your prayers that I settle quickly. Things here have changed a lot since I was last in Clarens. The general feel of the place is bigger - the supermarket can now actually be called that as it's had a re-vamp, and the place is crawling with tourists. The supermarket in Bethlehem now stocks a small variety of cheese, and if you're willing to pay you can even make fajitas (5GBP for 10 tortilla wraps!).

I've been taking things easy this week - I've spent a day shopping for essentials in Bethlehem like a fan and towels. Then I've spent a day working with a new project which is a small craft business doing jewelry, cards and sewing. I've been to visit the new Mapheo project which is working to provide a level of care and safety for the most vulnerable children in the community. Both of these things I feel may turn out to be projects I commit time to. I'm going to visit in the community with People of Hope tomorrow. I've also been spending some time catching up with old friends.

Something that is clearly different here this time which will take some getting used to is the lack of singles in their twenties. Last time I had a lot of people around to hang out with in the evenings and on weekends. Now it seems I'm the only one of my age group volunteering here. Everyone else is married, so it will just take some time to suss out how to socialise best.

Please pray for my living situation. Where I am is a bit of a 'stop-gap' - it's fine, but I really want my own place. I have a few options but I want to be sure I make the right decision.

Please also pray for the weather - it's rained continually since Monday evening. That's ok if you're living in a brick house and have a car, but makes life difficult for most people here. We'd like some sun!