It is such a strange thing, leaving an emotionally draining, exhilarating, and changing experience to come home to normalcy.What do you do with a new group of memories that have no place in your every day life?
At work, my coworkers do want to know the truth of my experience. However, many customers are curious too. But, what do you say? The truth... "I was robbed by armed men; I was harrassed and scared almost my whole trip; I was left alone a good portion of my time; I met some amazing volunteers that I will never get to see again, and that makes me so sad; I miss baby Kepha and wish I could adopt him..." They don't want to know that. So, I say, "It was fine. I learned a lot." Then, they happily take their mocha or black coffee and finish their days. It's not that I resent their lack of sincerity, it that I want someone else in Grand Rapids to understand. But, they can't, and really I don't want them to. My experience is not something that I wish on others.
Yet, I feel guilty passing negative light on this trip because there were some amazing moments. I loved my host mom. She made me feel safe and loved in a place where there was no safety and maybe too much love (of my skin color).
I loved my friends, Katie, Lauren, Debbie, Emily, and Nikki. They kept me sane and happy. They were my traveling buddies, and we have a bond that no one will ever have with me again. It's an intimacy that shares no real depth.
Moraa, Moraa was my guiding light. She was an example of selflessness, faith, and happiness. She is a woman who is devastated materially and completely blessed spiritually. I am so happy to know her, and to have shared a part of her life.
Since coming home, I received word that another volunteer, Emily told her education organization about Moraa. Now, 6 of her kids are getting sent to school with new uniforms and books. They never have to worry again whether they will get to learn! Hallelujah
Thank you for following this journey with me. I've heard so many people say, "I loved your blog. I followed it like a novel." Thank you. It's nice to hear.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Friday, February 18, 2011
Safari- Coming Home
Hello. Well the trip has ended. I feel slightly like I survived Kenya instead of experiencing Kenya. I don't feel "back to normal" yet... even though I'm home in sweet Rockford, MI surrounded by all my friends. I'm sure it'll just take time and I'll adjust to modern day again.
I couldn't get on here during safari or after because we got home late on Monday (and there wasn't power Monday night) and Tuesday I spent the whole day doing some last minute shopping in Karen and getting my hair braided. It's way cute. Stop into Sbux if you want to see my braids. :)
Safari was AWESOME. It was everything I hoped it would be. Our safari guide was crazy, crude, and rude... and I loved him. He said terrible things, but they were hilarious and made me feel less scared because I was shocked all the time. We saw every animal you could think of except a leopard. My favorite were the cheetahs and elephants. The most scary were the baboons. Pics will be posted soon because a girl got sick and let my use her camera the whole weekend! So, I have great pics that I actually got to take. It was so wonderful (except for her who was sick with Malaria... egh)
The trip home was surreal... until I fainted. I got up to go to the bathroom (again) on the first plan, and I fainted. I was so excited/nervous/in shock that I was going home that I passed out. My seat partner was my little mother hen and scooped me up, kicked out some people from their seats, and made me rest for a few hours. :) I felt so loved by her... and she was a stranger. Her name was Catarina (my Oma's name) and she was from Amsterdam (my Oma's home town)... we had a bond.
Vinnie, my mom, Layna, and Heidi all met me at the airport. :) I got flowers, a trip to red robin, a milkshake, and lots of hugs/kisses.
It's good to be home.
I couldn't get on here during safari or after because we got home late on Monday (and there wasn't power Monday night) and Tuesday I spent the whole day doing some last minute shopping in Karen and getting my hair braided. It's way cute. Stop into Sbux if you want to see my braids. :)
Safari was AWESOME. It was everything I hoped it would be. Our safari guide was crazy, crude, and rude... and I loved him. He said terrible things, but they were hilarious and made me feel less scared because I was shocked all the time. We saw every animal you could think of except a leopard. My favorite were the cheetahs and elephants. The most scary were the baboons. Pics will be posted soon because a girl got sick and let my use her camera the whole weekend! So, I have great pics that I actually got to take. It was so wonderful (except for her who was sick with Malaria... egh)
The trip home was surreal... until I fainted. I got up to go to the bathroom (again) on the first plan, and I fainted. I was so excited/nervous/in shock that I was going home that I passed out. My seat partner was my little mother hen and scooped me up, kicked out some people from their seats, and made me rest for a few hours. :) I felt so loved by her... and she was a stranger. Her name was Catarina (my Oma's name) and she was from Amsterdam (my Oma's home town)... we had a bond.
Vinnie, my mom, Layna, and Heidi all met me at the airport. :) I got flowers, a trip to red robin, a milkshake, and lots of hugs/kisses.
It's good to be home.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Another Stressful Disaster
Hello Blog Followers.
Big News 1: I ate a mango and didn't break out! woohoo
Big News 2: I am leaving Kenya in 5 days.
Big News 3: I was accused of being a thief and a lier today. :(
Mombassa was such a nice relief from Nairobi. I'm back in Ngong, and even my taxi driver from the airport was like, "Be safe. They found a couple of bodies in Ngong in the last weeks." Thank you, Kenya, for bringing fear to my everyday. YET it has brought so much fun/wonderful memories/stories/people/and blessings into my life, I would never trade this trip... just parts of it. Maybe I'll write a book. ha
Anyway, Mombasa is much safer than Nairobi. We walked around at night without any problems. Not one person thought it was strange for us to be out after dark. Unlike Vampire Village Nairobi, where as soon as it's dusk you run for your homes.
I rode a motorcycle taxi like 6 times. :D It was AWESOME. My dad is going to kill me when he reads this blog, but I loved it. AND, we sat 3 to a bike. HA... if God has protected me this long, I figure a motorbike ride isn't too risky.
Now, to the big story of the post:
Yesterday, two of the volunteers who were also at Tabby's for holiday decided to leave early. They needed one of us to deliver 2000KSH to Tabby. They handed it to one girl, and she handed it to me. mistake: accepting it.
I put the money in my Ziploc bag inside my backpack so it wouldn't get mixed with my money, and then us girls all went to dinner at Ali Babas Cave (side note: it's in a real cave on the side of the ocean). When we returned, the money was no longer in my Ziploc bag.
In the morning, I searched every pocket, every crevice, and emptied my bag three times in order to find the money. It was nowhere!
So, I went to Tabby's to give her the money I owed her. Then, I told her what happened, and said that if she cleaned the room and found 2000 shillings it would be the lost money. She left the room for about 5 minutes, and then she came back, looked at me, and said, "You took it. You took the money, and now you need to pay me 2000 shillings." I say, "No. I'm not paying it to you. I only have enough in my possession to get a taxi to and from the airport."
Then, she left. I left too. No way was I getting locked in a room with a mad African woman. I went back to my room and searched my stuff again. Still no money. Then, Tabby came into my room, sat across from me, and calmly said, "I don't really care about the money. I care that you're lying to me." I almost slapped her. Seriously!? I said, "Tabby, I understand that you're upset. I am going to give Fadhili the money. But, I can't give you 2000KSH right now. I need to get home to Ngong."
"Fine, I'll call Fadhili right now then."
"Go ahead. I'm not a lier."
Then, I packed my bags into my awaiting taxi, talked to Fadhili, and got back in the cab. Her husband, Cosmos goes, "Give me the phone. You aren't leaving." (Please... like they could keep me.)
"Here you go." I turned to my taxi," I'm ready to leave now." The poor taxi guy looked from one of us to the other and then got in the car. Bluh. I really don't care if she thinks I stole her money... but if I had I wouldn't not have told her it was lost.
Yet, here comes the typical part: I found the money in the airport. I opened my journal to write all this down, and there it was. Hello 2000ksh. At least now I wont have to hand the woman who accused me of being a thief and a lier the money, and I wont have to take the money out of my seriously dwindling account.
That's the big news of today.
God Bless,
Leah
Big News 1: I ate a mango and didn't break out! woohoo
Big News 2: I am leaving Kenya in 5 days.
Big News 3: I was accused of being a thief and a lier today. :(
Mombassa was such a nice relief from Nairobi. I'm back in Ngong, and even my taxi driver from the airport was like, "Be safe. They found a couple of bodies in Ngong in the last weeks." Thank you, Kenya, for bringing fear to my everyday. YET it has brought so much fun/wonderful memories/stories/people/and blessings into my life, I would never trade this trip... just parts of it. Maybe I'll write a book. ha
Anyway, Mombasa is much safer than Nairobi. We walked around at night without any problems. Not one person thought it was strange for us to be out after dark. Unlike Vampire Village Nairobi, where as soon as it's dusk you run for your homes.
I rode a motorcycle taxi like 6 times. :D It was AWESOME. My dad is going to kill me when he reads this blog, but I loved it. AND, we sat 3 to a bike. HA... if God has protected me this long, I figure a motorbike ride isn't too risky.
Now, to the big story of the post:
Yesterday, two of the volunteers who were also at Tabby's for holiday decided to leave early. They needed one of us to deliver 2000KSH to Tabby. They handed it to one girl, and she handed it to me. mistake: accepting it.
I put the money in my Ziploc bag inside my backpack so it wouldn't get mixed with my money, and then us girls all went to dinner at Ali Babas Cave (side note: it's in a real cave on the side of the ocean). When we returned, the money was no longer in my Ziploc bag.
In the morning, I searched every pocket, every crevice, and emptied my bag three times in order to find the money. It was nowhere!
So, I went to Tabby's to give her the money I owed her. Then, I told her what happened, and said that if she cleaned the room and found 2000 shillings it would be the lost money. She left the room for about 5 minutes, and then she came back, looked at me, and said, "You took it. You took the money, and now you need to pay me 2000 shillings." I say, "No. I'm not paying it to you. I only have enough in my possession to get a taxi to and from the airport."
Then, she left. I left too. No way was I getting locked in a room with a mad African woman. I went back to my room and searched my stuff again. Still no money. Then, Tabby came into my room, sat across from me, and calmly said, "I don't really care about the money. I care that you're lying to me." I almost slapped her. Seriously!? I said, "Tabby, I understand that you're upset. I am going to give Fadhili the money. But, I can't give you 2000KSH right now. I need to get home to Ngong."
"Fine, I'll call Fadhili right now then."
"Go ahead. I'm not a lier."
Then, I packed my bags into my awaiting taxi, talked to Fadhili, and got back in the cab. Her husband, Cosmos goes, "Give me the phone. You aren't leaving." (Please... like they could keep me.)
"Here you go." I turned to my taxi," I'm ready to leave now." The poor taxi guy looked from one of us to the other and then got in the car. Bluh. I really don't care if she thinks I stole her money... but if I had I wouldn't not have told her it was lost.
Yet, here comes the typical part: I found the money in the airport. I opened my journal to write all this down, and there it was. Hello 2000ksh. At least now I wont have to hand the woman who accused me of being a thief and a lier the money, and I wont have to take the money out of my seriously dwindling account.
That's the big news of today.
God Bless,
Leah
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Mombasa is actually Fun!
I thought I'd update after my slightly depressing and sad post. I am actually having a lot of fun in Mombasa. It is soooo much safer than Nairobi!
I've ridden in a tuktuk, gone out to an Indian restaurant, spent the whole day at a resort pool (only$6!), watched my soap opera (ha), eaten icecream, gone out for a drink, and today I'm getting henna done.
There are more people here now. Today I'm spending the day with 2 different girls than yesterday and the day before. :) I love new friends.
The only sad thing is that I've forgotten my phone charger, so I can't make any more calls till I return to Nairobi on Thursday. But, that's ok. I still have email, facebook, and my blog.
I hope you're all having a fantastic week!
Leah
I've ridden in a tuktuk, gone out to an Indian restaurant, spent the whole day at a resort pool (only$6!), watched my soap opera (ha), eaten icecream, gone out for a drink, and today I'm getting henna done.
There are more people here now. Today I'm spending the day with 2 different girls than yesterday and the day before. :) I love new friends.
The only sad thing is that I've forgotten my phone charger, so I can't make any more calls till I return to Nairobi on Thursday. But, that's ok. I still have email, facebook, and my blog.
I hope you're all having a fantastic week!
Leah
Sunday, February 6, 2011
I'm in Mombasa! So starts the Holiday?
Hello Blog followers. Thank you for reading my posts. It is fun to look at how many views I get each day. January had 291 views! Amazing. :) I feel so loved.
This week was my last week at the orphanage. I need a mental breather from the sadness and the stress. So, I'm in Mombasa, which is Kenya's coast. It's lovely... well the beaches are. The rest of the city is a little ugly... just like Nairobi. Anyway... I needed to get away from Nairobi to relieve some anxiety. It's hard to walk out the door being afraid of getting mugged each moment. Mombasa isn't so bad because it's full of tourists and the people are used to seeing whites.
I haven't met my roommates yet because they had already gone to the beach when I arrived. My host mom escorted me to the beach to find them, and then she left me. No kidding. I am alone... in Kenya... again. I'm starting to think that Kenyans don't realize how scary it is to be the o-n-l-y white person on the streets, and when white= green (money) to Kenyans... it's not comfortable. Thankfully, where she left me was at a yuppy beach club full of whites. Now, I'm on my way home. Wish me luck!
God Bless,
Leah
This week was my last week at the orphanage. I need a mental breather from the sadness and the stress. So, I'm in Mombasa, which is Kenya's coast. It's lovely... well the beaches are. The rest of the city is a little ugly... just like Nairobi. Anyway... I needed to get away from Nairobi to relieve some anxiety. It's hard to walk out the door being afraid of getting mugged each moment. Mombasa isn't so bad because it's full of tourists and the people are used to seeing whites.
I haven't met my roommates yet because they had already gone to the beach when I arrived. My host mom escorted me to the beach to find them, and then she left me. No kidding. I am alone... in Kenya... again. I'm starting to think that Kenyans don't realize how scary it is to be the o-n-l-y white person on the streets, and when white= green (money) to Kenyans... it's not comfortable. Thankfully, where she left me was at a yuppy beach club full of whites. Now, I'm on my way home. Wish me luck!
God Bless,
Leah
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Encouragement
Yesterday I was feeling so discouraged. I was feeling frustrated and sensitive towards Moraa because of her financial situation. I was worried she wasn't happy with the work I've been doing because I can't hand her a wallet full of money.
I could barely go to work today. Now, I see that this is the Devil's 4th attempt to keep me away from Moraa.
Attempt 1: Robbery
Solution 1: BHBC, my friends, my community, and my family praying for me and contacting me continually with support (even when I didn't have a phone they found my host mom's cell phone ((no idea how!)) to call me).
Attempt 2: Sickness
Solution 2: A new volunteer coming and giving me medicine as well as a sensitive host mom who stopped cooking food with fiber (haha).
Attempt 3: Alergic Reaction to Mangoes
Solution 3: Medical Missionaries show up at Moraa's and provide me benedrill
Attempt 4: Feeding me subconscious lies of inadequacy
Solution 4: God speaking to me through Morra's voice. She is such an encouragement to me. I really do love her. I wish I could do everything possible for her and those kids.
Good Luck Devil, GOD is on my side. He works all things together for good for those who love him! And fyi: that's me.
Also, those of you praying for me to not be so lonely... it worked! Now, there are 4 more girls in my appt and Jack is getting kicked out! YAY! One of the girl's is working with me at the orphanage and the other girls are working at an HIV clinic in Ngong. so fun! We are all about the same age and temperament too. Such a blessing!
My last week I was hoping to spend it with the Hovings from BHBC, but they are already having visitors. I would like to see more of the country, so I think I'm going to go to Mombasa Sun- Thursday next week. Mombasa is the touristy part of Kenya, but it would be nice to see the ocean and I can still work at an orphanage or a school. :)
I also think I need an emotional break from the constant stress of this trip. Maybe a change of scenery will help me prepare to come home without tons of stress.
Thank You for All Your Support and Reading My Long Posts!
Leah
I could barely go to work today. Now, I see that this is the Devil's 4th attempt to keep me away from Moraa.
Attempt 1: Robbery
Solution 1: BHBC, my friends, my community, and my family praying for me and contacting me continually with support (even when I didn't have a phone they found my host mom's cell phone ((no idea how!)) to call me).
Attempt 2: Sickness
Solution 2: A new volunteer coming and giving me medicine as well as a sensitive host mom who stopped cooking food with fiber (haha).
Attempt 3: Alergic Reaction to Mangoes
Solution 3: Medical Missionaries show up at Moraa's and provide me benedrill
Attempt 4: Feeding me subconscious lies of inadequacy
Solution 4: God speaking to me through Morra's voice. She is such an encouragement to me. I really do love her. I wish I could do everything possible for her and those kids.
Good Luck Devil, GOD is on my side. He works all things together for good for those who love him! And fyi: that's me.
Also, those of you praying for me to not be so lonely... it worked! Now, there are 4 more girls in my appt and Jack is getting kicked out! YAY! One of the girl's is working with me at the orphanage and the other girls are working at an HIV clinic in Ngong. so fun! We are all about the same age and temperament too. Such a blessing!
My last week I was hoping to spend it with the Hovings from BHBC, but they are already having visitors. I would like to see more of the country, so I think I'm going to go to Mombasa Sun- Thursday next week. Mombasa is the touristy part of Kenya, but it would be nice to see the ocean and I can still work at an orphanage or a school. :)
I also think I need an emotional break from the constant stress of this trip. Maybe a change of scenery will help me prepare to come home without tons of stress.
Thank You for All Your Support and Reading My Long Posts!
Leah
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Drained
I think it's starting to catch up with me: the emotional stress of this trip so far.
I feel exhausted, and I'm losing my patience with Moraa. She is still so wonderful in regards to her example of a great Christian woman, but since last week she has been asking me for money constantly each day. One of the previous volunteers, Debbie, loaded 2 taxis full of food and toiletries last week. Now, Moraa is making me feel like I should do the same. It's starting to be stressful, because I came to help and love on the kids. I cannot be a benefactor because I'm poor too!
Oh well. Two new girls are coming today so I hope that will take some of the pressure off of me.
I am off to eat lunch and then take a nap. :)
God Bless,
Leah
I feel exhausted, and I'm losing my patience with Moraa. She is still so wonderful in regards to her example of a great Christian woman, but since last week she has been asking me for money constantly each day. One of the previous volunteers, Debbie, loaded 2 taxis full of food and toiletries last week. Now, Moraa is making me feel like I should do the same. It's starting to be stressful, because I came to help and love on the kids. I cannot be a benefactor because I'm poor too!
Oh well. Two new girls are coming today so I hope that will take some of the pressure off of me.
I am off to eat lunch and then take a nap. :)
God Bless,
Leah
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Hazards in Kijabe
Jambo!
This weekend has been a respite for sure. I was able to spend it with the Hazards in Kijabe at their school, Rift Valley Academy. It feels like a mini America / a summer camp because it's a huge gated campus. There are white people everywhere. haha. I actually was able to sit on the porch in the dark without any fear. It's amazing. I have a big bed, warm shower, normal food (pizza, coffee cake, popcorn, coffee!), and English speaking hosts. I don't even feel like I'm in Kenya anymore.
I am leaving tomorrow back to Nairobi, and then back on the bus to Ngong. I feel so refreshed. When I get to Nairobi, I'm hoping my two friends will meet me so we can make weekend plans. We may go rock climbing! Hear that Layna? I may climb rocks somewhere you haven't. ha. ;)
I hope you are all having a nice weekend as well.
God Bless,
Leah
This weekend has been a respite for sure. I was able to spend it with the Hazards in Kijabe at their school, Rift Valley Academy. It feels like a mini America / a summer camp because it's a huge gated campus. There are white people everywhere. haha. I actually was able to sit on the porch in the dark without any fear. It's amazing. I have a big bed, warm shower, normal food (pizza, coffee cake, popcorn, coffee!), and English speaking hosts. I don't even feel like I'm in Kenya anymore.
I am leaving tomorrow back to Nairobi, and then back on the bus to Ngong. I feel so refreshed. When I get to Nairobi, I'm hoping my two friends will meet me so we can make weekend plans. We may go rock climbing! Hear that Layna? I may climb rocks somewhere you haven't. ha. ;)
I hope you are all having a nice weekend as well.
God Bless,
Leah
Friday, January 28, 2011
Sick Chicks
Jambo! Sa-Sa, Mambo, and all that Swahili talk...
Debbie has left. We had a good time together. Yesterday we went to the Giraffe Center together after volunteering. I got kissed my a Giraffe! Debbie took a picture, so hopefully she emails it to me, and then I can show you all how brave I am.
I fed them for so long; I think Debbie was getting bored. :) They are so majestic and beautiful. We listened to a talk about the three different kinds in Kenya. The ones in the center are the endangered species. I wish I could remember now what they are called, but they were awesome!
I also did a little shopping. There are so many women who make things that I had to swipe some gifts. :) I would tell you what I purchased, but they are for a few of you.
Now, onto some important news:
Moraa's chickens are SO sick. They have some kind of bird disease that makes them ring their own necks! No joke, they twist their heads until they strangle themselves or can't see where they're walking and then fall over and get trampled. It's terrible.
She's asking for some financial support, and I'm passing the request onto you all. She is a little strange about giving out her account number, but she has an account at Western Union. She said that if you know her name and location (Ngong or Nairobi) you can wire money into her account. I'm not sure how much she needs, but these people barely have enough to eat each day, so anything is appreciated. Her full name is Martha Moraa Bosire.
If you can't support her financially, any prayer support would be wonderful. It means so much to know people are praying for you, and I know she would love it.
I am alone this weekend. I was supposed to spend some time with some missionaries whom Blythfield supports, but they are sick. :( I may still get to see them Saturday because by then everyone will have been "sickly" for 48 hrs and no longer contagious. So, I may be with the Hazards from Saturday- Monday, but it is all up in the air.
I miss you all and am SO thankful for your support!
Leah
Debbie has left. We had a good time together. Yesterday we went to the Giraffe Center together after volunteering. I got kissed my a Giraffe! Debbie took a picture, so hopefully she emails it to me, and then I can show you all how brave I am.
I fed them for so long; I think Debbie was getting bored. :) They are so majestic and beautiful. We listened to a talk about the three different kinds in Kenya. The ones in the center are the endangered species. I wish I could remember now what they are called, but they were awesome!
I also did a little shopping. There are so many women who make things that I had to swipe some gifts. :) I would tell you what I purchased, but they are for a few of you.
Now, onto some important news:
Moraa's chickens are SO sick. They have some kind of bird disease that makes them ring their own necks! No joke, they twist their heads until they strangle themselves or can't see where they're walking and then fall over and get trampled. It's terrible.
She's asking for some financial support, and I'm passing the request onto you all. She is a little strange about giving out her account number, but she has an account at Western Union. She said that if you know her name and location (Ngong or Nairobi) you can wire money into her account. I'm not sure how much she needs, but these people barely have enough to eat each day, so anything is appreciated. Her full name is Martha Moraa Bosire.
If you can't support her financially, any prayer support would be wonderful. It means so much to know people are praying for you, and I know she would love it.
I am alone this weekend. I was supposed to spend some time with some missionaries whom Blythfield supports, but they are sick. :( I may still get to see them Saturday because by then everyone will have been "sickly" for 48 hrs and no longer contagious. So, I may be with the Hazards from Saturday- Monday, but it is all up in the air.
I miss you all and am SO thankful for your support!
Leah
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Mom, Mom, Mom
This week has been quite eventful even though it's only Wednesday. I feel like everyday is an adventure!
News of the Moment: I'm alergic to Mangos! (random) I've developed this crazy rash on my face. It looks like scales. Good thing I'm alone here in Kenya, otherwise you all may not be my friends anymore. (it's not that bad, but it's pretty ugly)
The medical missionaries came to Faraja Orphanage on Monday and when the nurse looked at my face she said I was alergic to sunscreen. But, I knew that wasn't true because the outbreak is only around my mouth. So, another nurse looked at me and said, "You look like my husband! He's alergic to mangos, do you react poorly to poison ivy?"
"Yes, really badly," I told her.
She told me the skin in mangos is simular to poison ivy. Strange.
Monday I helped Morra set up her budget. She doesn't know how to use excel, and I went to business school. Excel is like my second language.
Also, on Monday another girl volunteer came to Naomi's house! She's only staying till Thursday night, but it's been nice having another girl around. She's from Canada. I have met more Canadians in Kenya than I ever did at home! My two friends who live in Nairobi are from Canada too, and the two other volunteers who got robbed with me are from Canada. Alright fellow Americans, time to get adventurous... I need some suport over here.
Another girl came on Tuesday as well, but she is leaving for Massai on Friday for three weeks. She's from Australia and is so sweet. :)
Tuesday I spent about 3 hours on the bus! Rush hour in Nairobi is INSANE and boring. I left Ngong for Nairobi at 2, arrived in Nairobi city center at 4:30 (after a 45 min wait for the other girl coming with me and one bus change). Then we left Nairobi city center at 5, and I did not get to Ngong until 7:15! That was with only a 10 min break between busses to see my Canadian friends. They waited for me :) All this was so I could pay for my Safari with a credit card. bleh Without trafic the trip should take 45 min both ways... max.
News of the Moment: I'm alergic to Mangos! (random) I've developed this crazy rash on my face. It looks like scales. Good thing I'm alone here in Kenya, otherwise you all may not be my friends anymore. (it's not that bad, but it's pretty ugly)
The medical missionaries came to Faraja Orphanage on Monday and when the nurse looked at my face she said I was alergic to sunscreen. But, I knew that wasn't true because the outbreak is only around my mouth. So, another nurse looked at me and said, "You look like my husband! He's alergic to mangos, do you react poorly to poison ivy?"
"Yes, really badly," I told her.
She told me the skin in mangos is simular to poison ivy. Strange.
Monday I helped Morra set up her budget. She doesn't know how to use excel, and I went to business school. Excel is like my second language.
Also, on Monday another girl volunteer came to Naomi's house! She's only staying till Thursday night, but it's been nice having another girl around. She's from Canada. I have met more Canadians in Kenya than I ever did at home! My two friends who live in Nairobi are from Canada too, and the two other volunteers who got robbed with me are from Canada. Alright fellow Americans, time to get adventurous... I need some suport over here.
Another girl came on Tuesday as well, but she is leaving for Massai on Friday for three weeks. She's from Australia and is so sweet. :)
Tuesday I spent about 3 hours on the bus! Rush hour in Nairobi is INSANE and boring. I left Ngong for Nairobi at 2, arrived in Nairobi city center at 4:30 (after a 45 min wait for the other girl coming with me and one bus change). Then we left Nairobi city center at 5, and I did not get to Ngong until 7:15! That was with only a 10 min break between busses to see my Canadian friends. They waited for me :) All this was so I could pay for my Safari with a credit card. bleh Without trafic the trip should take 45 min both ways... max.
Now, we get to the title of this post.
Mother Morra is SO wonderful. She is becoming more of a blessing into my life than I feel I may be to hers.
Mother Morra is SO wonderful. She is becoming more of a blessing into my life than I feel I may be to hers.
Today, Kepha (the baby... he's 18 months) kept saying, "Mom?" and Morra would say, "hum?" and then he'd say, "Mom?"; "Hum?" "Mom!?" "Hum, Kepha?" and this went on for at least 15 minutes. I was about the wig out. I wanted to yell, "Kepha! Go do something!"
Then, Morra turns to me and says,
Then, Morra turns to me and says,
"Do you think this is how Jesus feels. We are always calling to him, 'Jesus, I am hurt. Jesus, I am tired. Jesus, I love you. Jesus, send me a husband.' but he never gets tired of us. He will always listen to us. This is why I cannot be mad at this baby, because my Jesus will never tire of me."
Then, she bent back over and kept washing clothes. I was so touched. I almost started crying. What a wonderful reminder, blessing, and woman. I Love Her.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Church
Yesterday I braved Kenya's public transportation alone! I was hoping to have a friend go into Nairobi with me, but it didn't happen. No one was actually home when I woke up.
I walked to the open air market where the buses all gather. I knew I had to take bus 111, but they all look different and none have numbers. One guy grabbed my arm and said, "Bus 111?" I said, "Yes," and climbed on, but it felt nerve raking, so I got off. I hopped on another bus. It felt better not to get shoved onto a bus. I rode the 30 min ride into Nairobi. It was fun. :) When I reached my stop, the conductor guy said, "You're OK now." haha. He must have sensed how nervous I was.
After my adventure in Nairobi purchasing a thermos (to replace the one I broke at the orphanage), water, soap, and fixing my cell phone, I hopped back onto a bus. I felt so brave to travel by myself after what had happened last weekend. My dad didn't want me to travel alone, but it is different here. Everyone takes the bus or matatu. They are 14 passenger vans that drive CRAZY! I avoid those.
That afternoon, I went to visit the orphanage. No one was there. So strange since usually there are 34 children running around. They all go to church on Saturday.
This morning I went to church again. It was such a blessing. I love African church services. They love and depend on the Lord so much that you can't help feeling uplifted. I want to love like them. :)
After church, Jack and I went shopping in the market. It's our day to cook. Vince sent me some recipes to follow. :) Thank goodness because I am the lamest cook ever...We are making spaghetti.
God Bless, Leah
I walked to the open air market where the buses all gather. I knew I had to take bus 111, but they all look different and none have numbers. One guy grabbed my arm and said, "Bus 111?" I said, "Yes," and climbed on, but it felt nerve raking, so I got off. I hopped on another bus. It felt better not to get shoved onto a bus. I rode the 30 min ride into Nairobi. It was fun. :) When I reached my stop, the conductor guy said, "You're OK now." haha. He must have sensed how nervous I was.
After my adventure in Nairobi purchasing a thermos (to replace the one I broke at the orphanage), water, soap, and fixing my cell phone, I hopped back onto a bus. I felt so brave to travel by myself after what had happened last weekend. My dad didn't want me to travel alone, but it is different here. Everyone takes the bus or matatu. They are 14 passenger vans that drive CRAZY! I avoid those.
That afternoon, I went to visit the orphanage. No one was there. So strange since usually there are 34 children running around. They all go to church on Saturday.
This morning I went to church again. It was such a blessing. I love African church services. They love and depend on the Lord so much that you can't help feeling uplifted. I want to love like them. :)
After church, Jack and I went shopping in the market. It's our day to cook. Vince sent me some recipes to follow. :) Thank goodness because I am the lamest cook ever...We are making spaghetti.
God Bless, Leah
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Weekend Off
Hey All!
Well, it's been one week in Kenya and so far so pretty exciting things have happend. ;)
As Deb Shelhaas put it, "now you can cross being robbed in a foreign country off your bucket list." hahaha. SO true. My recomendation is that if it's on YOUR bucket list... just say you did and dont do it. :)
Sat: Robbed
Sun: I experienced my first African penticostal church. IT WAS AMAZING! They danced, sang loudly, screamed into microphones the truth of God's love and providence. It was a sermon I really needed to hear after the night previous. After church we went to the police station (again) to give our statements (again) and recieve our abstracts... which I proceeded to lose after 2 hours in my posession. My brain was basically useless for 48hrs after the attack.
Mon: Embassy day with Rhianna (another girl who was robbed). First we went to the US Embassy, but it was closed for Martin Luther King Day. UGH! Seriously!? Starbucks isn't closed that day... shouldn't the US EMBASSY be open? But it turned out ok because the taxi driver and I had to spend 5 hours in the Canadian Embassy parking lot to wait for Rhianna. We took naps, read magazines, smelled flowers, discussed Obama (people in Kenya love that he's Kenyan. Everyone asks, "Do you think I look like Obama?" hahaha).
Also, that night Heidi, Deb, and my mom called to tell me to stay. SO, another awesome God moment: If the embassy had been open, I would have changed my flight already to leave. I wouldn't have been able to stay.
Tue: Went to Nairobi to buy a cell phone. First day at work placement. It was mainly a tour day. I met Madame Morra and the kids. Most of the kids are HIV+ and are pretty sickly. If you'd like to pray for them, they could use it.
Wed: First day of work. HARD WORK. It took about 6 hours to wash dishes, wash Kepha (the baby), sweep and mop the house, and start lunch. ThIs is because there is no elecricity or running water. Everything is such a process.
Thur: Another day of work, but it seemed to go better. I was sick however after work because Morra fed me way too much. She was proud of having food, and wanted to spoil her guest. Little does she know I eat like a 1st grader....barely.
Fri: Woke up still sick. The bathroom has become my best friend in Kenya. (yes I know... tmi) So, I didn't go back to work that day, and instead crawled back into bed till 2pm after being sick for 3 hours. At night, I ran some errands and went to the market with Naomi (my host mom) and Jamima (her sister). It was fun. I got 3 mangos for the equivalent of $.80! I also got to call all my best friends and family. It was great.
Today: I've lost my bank card and driver's license. I checked my account and there is no suspicious activity. I have to all the bank today (if heidi or mom read this... could you call for me?). I need to ask for another card sent to me (the office or the embassy).
I am also headed into Nairobi to get my phone fixed, because I can't recieve calls for some reason. Annoying. I also am going to go shopping a little. Then, I'm visiting Morra so she knows I'm OK. I'm going to teach Naomi and Jamima SKIPBO today. :)
Thanks for all your support!
Leah
Well, it's been one week in Kenya and so far so pretty exciting things have happend. ;)
As Deb Shelhaas put it, "now you can cross being robbed in a foreign country off your bucket list." hahaha. SO true. My recomendation is that if it's on YOUR bucket list... just say you did and dont do it. :)
Sat: Robbed
Sun: I experienced my first African penticostal church. IT WAS AMAZING! They danced, sang loudly, screamed into microphones the truth of God's love and providence. It was a sermon I really needed to hear after the night previous. After church we went to the police station (again) to give our statements (again) and recieve our abstracts... which I proceeded to lose after 2 hours in my posession. My brain was basically useless for 48hrs after the attack.
Mon: Embassy day with Rhianna (another girl who was robbed). First we went to the US Embassy, but it was closed for Martin Luther King Day. UGH! Seriously!? Starbucks isn't closed that day... shouldn't the US EMBASSY be open? But it turned out ok because the taxi driver and I had to spend 5 hours in the Canadian Embassy parking lot to wait for Rhianna. We took naps, read magazines, smelled flowers, discussed Obama (people in Kenya love that he's Kenyan. Everyone asks, "Do you think I look like Obama?" hahaha).
Also, that night Heidi, Deb, and my mom called to tell me to stay. SO, another awesome God moment: If the embassy had been open, I would have changed my flight already to leave. I wouldn't have been able to stay.
Tue: Went to Nairobi to buy a cell phone. First day at work placement. It was mainly a tour day. I met Madame Morra and the kids. Most of the kids are HIV+ and are pretty sickly. If you'd like to pray for them, they could use it.
Wed: First day of work. HARD WORK. It took about 6 hours to wash dishes, wash Kepha (the baby), sweep and mop the house, and start lunch. ThIs is because there is no elecricity or running water. Everything is such a process.
Thur: Another day of work, but it seemed to go better. I was sick however after work because Morra fed me way too much. She was proud of having food, and wanted to spoil her guest. Little does she know I eat like a 1st grader....barely.
Fri: Woke up still sick. The bathroom has become my best friend in Kenya. (yes I know... tmi) So, I didn't go back to work that day, and instead crawled back into bed till 2pm after being sick for 3 hours. At night, I ran some errands and went to the market with Naomi (my host mom) and Jamima (her sister). It was fun. I got 3 mangos for the equivalent of $.80! I also got to call all my best friends and family. It was great.
Today: I've lost my bank card and driver's license. I checked my account and there is no suspicious activity. I have to all the bank today (if heidi or mom read this... could you call for me?). I need to ask for another card sent to me (the office or the embassy).
I am also headed into Nairobi to get my phone fixed, because I can't recieve calls for some reason. Annoying. I also am going to go shopping a little. Then, I'm visiting Morra so she knows I'm OK. I'm going to teach Naomi and Jamima SKIPBO today. :)
Thanks for all your support!
Leah
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Attacked
I just found a cyber cafe... it's actually across from my house! haha. I am staying with a host mom named, Naomi. She is so nice and sweet. Her English is great. I may be spending my last week with the missionaries from my church, however.
I really love my placement. I work in an orphanage house run by only one woman named, Momma Morra. She takes care of 34 children with no electricity, water, or income other than selling eggs and chickens. I know I am helping her a lot. She is such a wonderful lady. Except she feeds me too much compared to the kids and now I am having a sick stomache. I tell her, "just a little please," and she gives me a double portion.
Here are the details of the attack that happened my first 24hours in Kenya:
Me, two other volunteers, and a Fadhili worker were the last group waiting to go to our placements. Were in a gated and gaurded compound, but a car came in and the thugs followed. I didn't see how many there were, but the other girls said there were about 6-7 and two had guns. I just noticed a group of people coming from the street yelling, "get down. get down!" I thought there was trouble on the street so I ran to the wall. I man came and shoved me while grabbing my cross chain from my neck onto the ground. Thankfully, I fell on a pillow, otherwise I may have been badly hurt.
I lay face down for what seemed like forever. I heard people yelling and crying, but my mind was strangely blank. I didn't pray; I didn't think; I didn't know really what was going on. A man came and grabbed my legs. He said, "lay like this." I knew what he meant and flipped over. He patted my pockets, but all I had in them was eye drops. He grabbed them and then put the bottle back into my pocket. (I guess it was too borring to steal).
Then, I heard a car drive away and a lot of hands and feet above me. I seriously just layed staring at the sky and noticed how blue it was. It was strange. I felt so calm, until they left. Then I started crying.
People from the street came rushing in saying, "Polli, Polli, Sorry, Sorry," They felt so bad.
To make a very long ending short: the police stopped the car and reteaved our bags. The theives got away with all our cash and electronics, and my glasses! (strange thing to steal). We still have our credit cards and passports.
It is very strange. I am a celebrity in Ngong. People want to shake my hand, and everyone says, "Jambo, Hello, Mzungu (white person....haha. It's my new name)."
My phone does not recieve calls for some reason. I am going back into Nairobi on Saturday with my roommate, Jack to get it fixed, hopefully. SIde note: we thought my roommate Jack was doing drugs because he's never home and spends the nights away, but he is training with Kenyan athletes. Funny.
God Bless,
Leah
P.S. Thank you for all the prayers. They have helped a lot. I know.
I really love my placement. I work in an orphanage house run by only one woman named, Momma Morra. She takes care of 34 children with no electricity, water, or income other than selling eggs and chickens. I know I am helping her a lot. She is such a wonderful lady. Except she feeds me too much compared to the kids and now I am having a sick stomache. I tell her, "just a little please," and she gives me a double portion.
Here are the details of the attack that happened my first 24hours in Kenya:
Me, two other volunteers, and a Fadhili worker were the last group waiting to go to our placements. Were in a gated and gaurded compound, but a car came in and the thugs followed. I didn't see how many there were, but the other girls said there were about 6-7 and two had guns. I just noticed a group of people coming from the street yelling, "get down. get down!" I thought there was trouble on the street so I ran to the wall. I man came and shoved me while grabbing my cross chain from my neck onto the ground. Thankfully, I fell on a pillow, otherwise I may have been badly hurt.
I lay face down for what seemed like forever. I heard people yelling and crying, but my mind was strangely blank. I didn't pray; I didn't think; I didn't know really what was going on. A man came and grabbed my legs. He said, "lay like this." I knew what he meant and flipped over. He patted my pockets, but all I had in them was eye drops. He grabbed them and then put the bottle back into my pocket. (I guess it was too borring to steal).
Then, I heard a car drive away and a lot of hands and feet above me. I seriously just layed staring at the sky and noticed how blue it was. It was strange. I felt so calm, until they left. Then I started crying.
People from the street came rushing in saying, "Polli, Polli, Sorry, Sorry," They felt so bad.
To make a very long ending short: the police stopped the car and reteaved our bags. The theives got away with all our cash and electronics, and my glasses! (strange thing to steal). We still have our credit cards and passports.
It is very strange. I am a celebrity in Ngong. People want to shake my hand, and everyone says, "Jambo, Hello, Mzungu (white person....haha. It's my new name)."
My phone does not recieve calls for some reason. I am going back into Nairobi on Saturday with my roommate, Jack to get it fixed, hopefully. SIde note: we thought my roommate Jack was doing drugs because he's never home and spends the nights away, but he is training with Kenyan athletes. Funny.
God Bless,
Leah
P.S. Thank you for all the prayers. They have helped a lot. I know.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
In 48 Hours I Will Be On My Way!
It's finally here. The moment that I have wanted for a year now. Since last winter when I read the book, A Long Way Gone, I have known Africa has wanted me. Ishmael Beah (the author of A Long Way Gone) came to GVSU to speak, and his words cemented my longing to love the children left family-less by AIDS, war, and culture. His story and the stories of other orphans all over the world has broken my heart.
Every child deserves a family; if I can't provide the family, then I want to pour as much love, for as long as I can, into their souls.
All there is to say is, THANK YOU! Without all the support of my family, friends, and coworkers this trip would not be possible. God gave me the desire, you provided the funds and prayer support. Words can not explain how right the trip feels, and I am completely blessed to have so many people behind me. Thank you.
Total, you have raised $2,809. This money covers my flight, vaccines, travel insurance, water and laundry while in Nairobi, visa, and volunteer fee. Also, Starbucks workers and customers have filled my extra suitcase full of cloths and craft supplies!
While I am not sure about my internet acess while in Kenya, I have been assured I can update this regularly. Check back weekly for photos, stories, and perhaps video. I will be looking for your comments. :)
God Bless.
Every child deserves a family; if I can't provide the family, then I want to pour as much love, for as long as I can, into their souls.
All there is to say is, THANK YOU! Without all the support of my family, friends, and coworkers this trip would not be possible. God gave me the desire, you provided the funds and prayer support. Words can not explain how right the trip feels, and I am completely blessed to have so many people behind me. Thank you.
Total, you have raised $2,809. This money covers my flight, vaccines, travel insurance, water and laundry while in Nairobi, visa, and volunteer fee. Also, Starbucks workers and customers have filled my extra suitcase full of cloths and craft supplies!
While I am not sure about my internet acess while in Kenya, I have been assured I can update this regularly. Check back weekly for photos, stories, and perhaps video. I will be looking for your comments. :)
God Bless.
Monday, January 3, 2011
10 Days Till Kenya!!!
So in 10 days I will be on a plane to KENYA! Yay. I'm getting so excited.
Today I am shopping for little things: sunscreen, bug spray, over-the-counter meds, stickers for the kids...
I also am buying my insurance today. I don't know why I keep putting it off; I think maybe because it's boring. :)
Thank you for all the people who are praying! God has continued to bless this trip through more donations (more than I think I need... but he knows more than me) and people who have tips for me because they've been to Kenya. I hadn't realized it was a popular place to be if you're from GR, but it seems to be.
The extra donation money is in my saving account to spend on the kids or any extra expenses that show up. I'm excited to have extra so I can get craft supplies, games, or maybe shoes for the orphans.
I love these kids, and I haven't even met them. I can't wait to go!!!
Today I am shopping for little things: sunscreen, bug spray, over-the-counter meds, stickers for the kids...
I also am buying my insurance today. I don't know why I keep putting it off; I think maybe because it's boring. :)
Thank you for all the people who are praying! God has continued to bless this trip through more donations (more than I think I need... but he knows more than me) and people who have tips for me because they've been to Kenya. I hadn't realized it was a popular place to be if you're from GR, but it seems to be.
The extra donation money is in my saving account to spend on the kids or any extra expenses that show up. I'm excited to have extra so I can get craft supplies, games, or maybe shoes for the orphans.
I love these kids, and I haven't even met them. I can't wait to go!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)