Zambian Kwacha

On a collection excursion at Green Lake last Tuesday, I was given money from Africa as well as 4 bucks from a rad little group who had just returned from Zambia the day before. I'm told the Kwacha's worth about 4 cents, but we'll take every bit! If I were the scrapbooking type, these 100 Kwacha would make the cut without question.

New Total: $311.55! Most of that has come through the Paypal link (keep spreading the word!), but I've had several people hand me dollars in person as well. Also note the new target of: $1465.40 (we now have the exact ticket amount). That leaves only 1153.85 people to give a dollar!

I've been enjoying seeing how many different places the money comes from too. Though most has come from Seattle, a donation came from Hawaii and Chicago a few days ago, and today one from North Carolina, for instance.

I've decided that Green Lake isn't the best place to share my story and ask for bucks.... everyone is too decked-out in exercise suits and swimming garb to carry wallets. I need to be more strategic. I'm thinking banks.

A co-worker suggested I try scrapping the personal connection method and instead make a general announcement of my story the next time I'm on the bus to all passengers within ear-shot. I told him I'd do it by the end of the week. I'll keep you posted.

Funny story of the last few days: Rob, one of my housemates said he'd eat a fly that we found in our fridge if another housemate, Kevin, gave 10 bucks toward the Getting Melissa To Thailand cause. Kevin was so grossed out at Rob's determination, and so frightened that Rob would actually eat the insect that Kevin ended up paying 10 bucks for Rob NOT to eat the fly.

Melissa and I are also planning to have a Boys verses Girls contest. Come Autumn when we are both in Seattle again, we will each gather two friends and hit the same mall to see which gender can draw the most money. Lingering middle school chants tell me boys rule, girls drool... but honestly I feel nervous.