Camping in Congo

This last weekend we headed off to camp at the beach north of Pointe-Noire. We had looked at a weekend away in Dolisie but there were just too many unknowns to try this with the kids. So we settled on an overnight camping trip at the beach with 3 other fab families - The Bullock's, The Cash's and The Chase's. Unfortunately Jack was a bit sick on Friday and so Tam stayed back onboard with him whilst I took Harry and Mark. We borrowed tents and much of our equipment from various sources onboard - one of the advantages of living in community!

Loaded up for one night's camping only - 4 families though.

And we are off!

We picked up 30 fresh baguettes - straight out of the oven - at a boulangerie on the way out. They were fantastic and five were eaten before we even arrived. 

Tent city, courtesy of the Academy.

Mark slept in a three man tent with Eli, Jacob and Matthew - it was squashy. Harry started off in the other three man tent with Caleb and Caroline but transferred in with me after a while.

Harry & Mark

Caleb

Just after we arrived and set up, some fishermen turned up and start fishing off the beach. They would wade out almost 50 metres to cast then bring their rods back to the beach. They were working about 3 rods each. Anyway they provided great entertainment, landing two enormous fish. One of the fisherman who was from Reunion Island but holidaying in Congo told us it was a Capitaine.

Mick cooking up a storm - chicken kebabs with peppers, onions and tomatoes

We planned the meals earlier in the week and this was almost as much fun as eating them - actually it was evan better eating them. Gretchen and Mark did a great job shopping on Friday and then Nick and Gabe did a superb job preparing. Cooking was then easy.

Gabe - prepping the kebabs

Rachel - enjoying the fruits of our labour.

Mark - contented.

Chocolate brownies for dessert.

Hey Harry, Malachi and Kezia are climbing into your cup.

Emma

  Harry said his favourite thing was playing with a double pointed stick!

Harry

On Sunday morning three more Landrovers with more families and friends from the ship including Tam and Jack came out to join us for brunch, lunch, swimming and family church. Nick led us in worship, Gabe gave a great talk and the Koontz's brought amazing snacks. 

The surf was fantastic and I am sure Mark swam for at least 5 hours. Even the little bit of rain couldn't dampen our spirits and enjoyment.

Nick leading worship.

Family church, whilst eating fresh baguettes

Family church, enjoying God's creation all around us.

Finally we headed home at about 3 pm, exhausted but revitalised.

Camping in Congo. Never imagined I'd do this. Ticked off bucket list now.