Wish you were here #5

[your name here], I saw the zebra again!

This time, I was digging potatoes in a small garden the villagers have cleared in the forest when I heard the noise. The other ladies were on the far side of the garden, and there in the forest not three metres away was the zebra, watching me. It took a step closer; it did too. Then it turned and looked over its shoulder, as if waiting for me. I dropped my hoe. But the ladies called to me at that moment, and the zebra was lost among the red-tipped boughs of the forest.

I suppose these little excitements are nothing compared to the goings on at home. I wonder what you're doing, and how you are. I wonder it often.

Alida x

Wish you were here #6

Wish you were here #4

Dear [your name here],

Are you well? I hope so. Today I went fishing with the old man at the river. He set me up and left me there to go hunting. They eat the orange squirrels that skitter around the forest here. I'd just caught and killed a fish when there was a noise in the leaves on the far river bank. It was a zebra with a brushy mane, but it had gentle eyes like a horse. It stood watching me, and I it, until the old man reappeared not with squirrel but with a purple bird he'd killed with his poison darts. Then the zebra was gone -- there was nothing among the trees.

I long for news of you and wish I had a return address for this place. I think the old couple know; they throw their mail on the fire, often unopened, and there is no chance for me to search the place. No one visits or leaves the village, but I long to see you again. I long for home.

As always,
Alida xo

Wish you were here #5

Wish you were here #3

Dear [your name here],

I don't know if you're getting these postcards. I know I sound paranoid, but the people in this village sort of won't let me leave. I think the old couple stole my guide book. There are no phones and any time I try to ask about a bus or moving on, people shrug or get distracted or mime elaborate excuses. The river shown overleaf runs through this town. It really is as pretty as the picture. This is the only postcard they sell in the shop, and they supposedly post the mail for everyone here. I hope this reaches you. Some days the forest seems soft and silent, but other times the trees seem to be closing in. Particularly at night.

I don't want you to worry about me, though. I'm fine, really, and I hope you are too. How's [your partner's name here] going? I trust you're both well.

I'll write when I can.
Alida x

Wish you were here #4

Wish you were here #2

Dear [your name here],

The gentleman pictured overleaf looks a lot like the man I asked for directions on a deserted road today. I'd left town early and became lost; I didn't speak his language but, with gestures and pointing and drawings in the dust, he gave me directions. At dusk I came to a small village in a forest. I don't think they get many visitors here: everyone turned to look at me in the square. An old lady took me to her house, where I'm staying the night with her and her husband. They're watching me write this card to you. I don't know what the name of the town is, because no one speaks English. I hope to be back on course tomorrow.

I hope you're well and getting some sunshine.

Missing you,
Alida

Wish you were here #3