Farewell from Joanne

Dear Friends,
The packing boxes, large rolls of bubble and tissue paper have arrived. Wooden crates are being made for the paintings and statues. By now we have moving - or "shifting," as the natives say - down to a fine art. Getting Roef's papers in order has been a major headache. I don't think a dog has ever traveled from India to Egypt before as nobody seems to know what papers are necessary. Harry flew to Mumbai last Tuesday to sort things out so here's hoping. We leave for Egypt September 27 for Harry to take on re-structuring the largest private employer in Egygt.
It has been an exciting year in Chennai. Some lows: i.e. infrastructure, electricity cuts, sights of unbelievable poverty, but especially the continuous extreme heat and humidity (average temp 38 degrees).
The highs were intoxicating - the friendliness and warmth of the people, especially the loyalty, helpfulness and fun I have had with the staff, new friends from the International Women's Association and the Overseas Women's Club. The craftwork and materials and the huge well-stocked book shops we often visited! A big downer was living in a dry state.
Bonita, our Indian dog, has gone to an orphanage we support for orphans and maltreated girls. They live on a farm hours from here with 30 cats and 8 dogs. They care for the animals and give and get lots of love which helps with the rehabilitation process. They are then trained in a vocation, i.e. embroidery.
On Saturday, we sold 60 huge potted plants, household equipment, my clocks and paintings. All proceeds went to the orphanage. It was a fun-filled day. Many thanks to all of you who contributed so generously.
It is with a large dose of sadness that I leave Chennai, but will keep all the special memories, experiences and people I have met in my India Box alongside the boxes from Africa, America, England, Turkey and Holland.
I haven't had as much as a cold year so am extremely blessed, but I am not sorry to leave the heat and humidity behind.
Take care of yourselves and think of us starting our new adventure in Egypt.
Love to you all,
Joanne
(Roef & Harry, too)

Joanne has some contacts she would like to pass along:

Loju 9840758225
an excellent carpenter

T.D. Venkatesan 9840183139
tourist guide - very knowlegable about Chennai

Ananda Stationary Stores 24412494, 24402824
97 LB Road
Adyar
art and drawing materials, floppies, inkjet cartridges, etc.