Hi All, hope this Xmas blog finds you all well, with a full belly and satisfied smile on your face. I'm sitting in a flat on Blvd Saint Michel waiting for Emma to return from work so we can meet up with a friend for a drink. It's freezing out there!! But all the same, nice to be in Paris in winter, still lots of tourists around!

The last Cote D'Ivoire stint was fun, interesting as usual. I've moved into the Bonikro Mine to be based there as we explore close to the mine. This means a very different work environment for me, flashing lights, short-wave radios, HUGE trucks and cafeteria meals. The change of pace and work is good I think. Certainly I'm finding it new, bright and shiny! Will see how I feel after 6 months of having to show my ID card at the gate.

Working near Bonikro means I am living in the town of Oume. Nothing like Yamousoukro, it is fairly small but with most things that you need. The biggest down side is that there is not much to do after work as the facilities here are not great. And unlike Yama, the street lights aren't good enough to run by. Luckily we have satellite TV from South Africa, so get the cricket and rugby.

Have run out of inspiration at the moment for more writing, so will add some pictures and viola!!
Bonikro Mine The uniform...
Love to you all