email from Joe to Circle Brothers

Dear Brothers

I cannot believe how time flies! This will be our second Christmas in Zimbabwe. We hope you are all keeping well despite the cold weather.

We were sorry to hear of Joe G's ill health and our thoughts and prayers are with him, Bev. and his family. We hope he and his family have an enjoyable Christmas in the comfort of their home.

Both Mukta and I would also like to extend our best wishes to all members, their good ladies and families. May you all have a blessed, joyous and happy festive season and we hope that the new year brings much joy, happiness, good health and prosperity.

We will be spending Christmas day with our relatives, whats left of them here. Unfortunanterly both Sean and Tara are not able to be with us due to their commitments at their respective Unis. They, however, keep in touch regularly - it being much easier for them to call us.They both hope to complete their respective studies by August 2012. It will of great relief to us as well as to them, as it has been a long jouney for them.

The weather in Harare has been rather hot in the last few months with intermittent showers bringing much needed relief. There continue to be difficulties, prices of basics are much more expensive compared to those in the UK. The only consolation is that everything is available, which was not the case pre 2009. On the business front there are many challenges to overcome, power supply has become worse making it essential to invest in backup power supplies. Water availability is also problemtic making boreholes essential. On the bright side there is some resurfacing of roads and filling of potholes and of course lots of sunshine and organic food. The process is slow but hopefully it will continue. The problems of the National airline have had a negative effect on the tourism business, which is the area that we are in. The Emirates airlines are due to commence operating in late January 2012, so we are all hoping that their entry will bring some comfort to the tourism sector and is certainly a boost.

There is also a great deal of uncertainty, as elections under a new constitution are due but no one is clear as to when this will happen - next year or the following!!!

We continue to be optimistic, especially when we hear of what is happening in Europe etc.

We miss all our many wonderful friends in the UK and still to remember the many enjoyable moments that we shared with members of the Circle as well as with others with great fondness.