We had a fabulous catch up with the girls, I haven't seen them for about 2.5 years I think. They are off to the Lower Zambezi this weekend and unfortunately it is full so we can't tag along, but no worries we have been asked to house and dog sit their house which will be good.

They also tell us about Garth (a guide ex Zim who I know) has just had 2 trips cancelled so is free and may want to put together our Zambia trip for us and be our guide - a bit like Clint in Bots. We also hear that it is Sue's birthday on 01 July so have been included in the preparations - she always arranges her own 'surprise birthday' no one else knows until the day what we are all doing! Kinda cool really.

We get back to the backpackers and are staying in Hippo room - quite appropriate as we have both put on weight! Have a good sleep and next morning I arrange for Garth to come and meet with us to discuss our plans for Zambia. Also we have to try and get the car fixed. The spare tyres on front of the trailer make it far too heavy - thats why we almost ripped off the bumper in Botswana, so we have transferred them onto the roof of the car. Only problem is that they weigh 44kgs each and have now managed to rip the side of the car where the frame is attached!! It is never ending with all the little things having to be fixed, but I guess at least it is only little things!!!

Sue has seen Dehyd and he is very excited about seeing me - so next week there will be a braai with Dehyd, Claire and the 3 kids and Mark, Sarah and the 2 kids and not sure who else will have to wait and see - will be great to catch up with them all.

Garth arrives and yes I do know him from Vic Falls, nice guy and I think Martin will get on well with him as well. It's all very well having a guide with you for weeks, but not good if you don't like him and visa versa. We discuss our plans and what we would like to see and do and also ask him to add in anything that he thinks is worth seeing. Like Clint he is very excited as we are so flexible and are not really restricted by time - its so awesome to see guides really excited about putting together a trip which gives them a chance to show off their countries properly - the passion is amazing!

Garth tells us about a guy down the road who should be able to help out with the car, so Martin goes to see him. Mike Lottering and he should be able to repair somehow next week. We have to drop it off with him on Monday. Fingers crossed that he can come up with a plan that will stop this from happening again.

Will carry on soon xxx