Such an personal attack against Afrikafe cannot remain unanswered. I need to pick up a glove and defend the honour of this heavenly drink. Afrikafe might have lost a battle but it has by far won the war for the hearts and minds of McKinsey consultants. Suffice it to say that after leaving a can of Afrikafe in the lunch plaza at the office, I received 4 phone calls asking me how one can order “this thing” Now, everybody drinks Afrikafe, nobody sleeps and the work effectiveness is up by 210% ) I am deliberating a career change and becoming a wholesale importer of this drink that seem to cater for untapped needs of Polish businessmen

On a serious note, before Peter gets annoyed and starts wondering “how long on earth can you make these stupid jokes about Afrikafe”, many many thanks to all of you (yes, Marlene, you too ) for making this trip so amazing and unforgettable. I do strongly believe that the fact, that we managed to bond so well over such short time and did not experience any conflict on the way, is truly remarkable.

On my end, I am back to Warsaw trying to survive 18-hour long workdays. Let me just say that, as I already wrote to Peter, I had a turnaround time of 15 minutes between getting home from the airport and setting my foot in the office (just enough to take a shower and find a clean suit). For that reason I enjoyed reading Peter’s blog and Dave’s email even more. The mere fact that I am already so nostalgic about the whole African adventure should speak for itself

Thank you all again for making this trip a success:
- Joe, for being one of few people on the face of this planet that seem to get my weird sense of humour
- Dave, for being a worthy adversary in the Afrikafe vs. Milo struggle and, again, for contributing to the Monty Pythonesque atmosphere at the dinner table
- Bob, for making summitting possible for me by lending me his green jacket and being a great conversation partner
- Robin, for showing me that true determination and perseverance pay off
- Sam, for teaching me about ‘how you do it in the army’
- Marlene, for not beating me up for my often not very subtle jokes
- Peter, for being an amazing company and all these conversation we have had in Ndarakwai over Tusker
- Gurleen, last but not least, for being herself and more
- Tusker beer, for making all of this possible

Lastly, I do hope some of you will wander in their travels to the faraway country of Poland. If you do, please visit and I will show you that Polish hospitality is famous for no reason

Of course all of you made it much more enjoyable. From the first moment when I was waiting to pick up my bag in the Kilimanjaro airport and an Indian girl named Twiggy walked up to me and asked “Are you from Texas?” I knew it was going to be a wonderful trip.

I had a great time talking with Sam on the trail and agreeing that by lagging behind we were in truth making sure everyone made it. This is what leaders do. Or my time in the “March of the Dead” line trying to make Robbin laugh with a stupid joke or grunting an apology to Marlene for punching her backpack again after following too close. When Bob picked up an obsidian stone, I had a secondary mission for a few days to find my own.

You know you are having fun when you can sit and laugh about the dumbest things like we did at the dinner table. Most of it was listening to Joe and Oskar joke about nothing with Peter throwing his two cents into the mix. These are the best of times when asked what you are laughing about and your only response is I don’t know, it is not even funny.

I loved the description of the hike from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak. Nothing has ever been as comforting as placing my forehead on my walking stick and resting every 10 steps or so. Every time I stopped, I knew I was being left behind, but each time I looked up Peter and Joe were still there resting themselves. Then laughing about it afterwards seeing others do the same and realizing that was us 15 minutes before.

Truthfully, this trek was much more difficult than I imagined. Even with that ignorance, I did not think we would all make it to the peak (including myself at times). Knowing now how tough it actually is, physically and mentally, I really am impressed with every one of you. Early in the trip Peter, Oskar, Joe and I talked about pluck or grit. All of you have it. Anyway, I just wanted to express how much fun I had and to let you know I enjoyed meeting “all ya’ll” (that is for you Marlene). I cannot help but have a smile on my face when thinking or talking about this trip.

Lastly, I would like to thank each of you for giving up your sinful and heathen-like ways by abandoning the evil that is Africafe and converting to the one true drink of Kilimanjaro, Milo. I know this sweet nectar raised your spirits and was the ultimate reason you were able to conquer the mountain.

I can say that I went for many reasons. I went looking for answers. I can honestly say that the trip changed me. There is something about Africa. My understanding prior to arrival was limited to what I had read in books, but for years, Africa had been on the forefront of my desired destinations. And to test myself and experience a climb to the rooftop of Africa was something I simply had to do. As you know all too well, an expedition like this is an ultimate test of one’s self. It sharpens you, physically, mentally and spiritually. Standing atop the summit, I was as emotional as I have been in a very long time. A true feeling of triumph rose above the exhaustion and fatigue as it only can after completing an undertaking such as this. I will never forget looking around at where we were with one arm around my Brother and saying to myself. “I did it”. Three words that I have said many times before, but never with so much emotion behind them.

It will be something I remember forever. I thank you, as you made that happen. I am certain that we will have more travels and adventures together. Until then, let’s stay in touch and I look forward to catching up with you soon.

Love Aunt Geri

Love Aunt Val,