Arrived Home Safely Sat. July 8th, 2006

The flight was uneventful. I slept most of the way. I sat next to my brother and we did not kill each other!!! I was so tried, I do not even remember taking off in Rome. We just made our flight connection in Addis Abba. Bryan had planned to do some shopping, but had just a few minutes to do so.
We arrive in DC on time and would have gotten through customs quickly, but my brother brought a cane with him as a carryon. They took it from him in Nairobi and said they would check it through to Washington. We waited until all the luggage had come off and then we were one of the last on the plane to clear customs. He did not get his cane. I am sure he will some how end up on top! If you see him, make sure to ask him about his cane!!!
I then decided that I would stay at the airport to see if I could get an earlier flight to Florida to meet my family. I was lucky and got on a 2:00 pm flight.
I have never been so excited to see my family. Megan tackled me and Kyle just giggled and jumped in to my lap. They looked so much bigger. The tears of joy were flowing as I hugged my kids and Charley!
I have arrived home safely and pray that the rest of the team does as well.
They have all arrived home safely!!!

Saying Good-Bye Friday, July 7th, 2006

After washing off all the dust and getting good nights sleep, we were up early for another full day. We decided to go back to the Valley to say good-bye. The way we left on Wednesday was not enough closure. Everyone but my mom and dad went to the school early to say good-bye to the teachers and students. Wow was that hard. We only wanted to stay a short time. I felt like I had made some real connections with some of the teachers. I wanted to give them my address and get theirs in return. But most of all I wanted to let them know what a wonderful job they are doing and that God is working through them as they work with the children.
I was drawn back into the preschool class. I just felt called to be with the teachers and the kids. It was sad to say good-bye, but I know I will be returning soon. I promised to write and know that I will be thinking of them often. The teachers like Rose and Kathryn, who only had good things to say about us and all we are doing…touched me the most. They are giving of themselves, not only as teachers but also as role models for the children who have little. They are the ones who god had blessed and is watching over. They are the ones who are touching the lives of so many children. For them I am truly grateful and pray God continues to bless and watch over them.
After saying good-bye to Patrick, I needed a few moments by myself. It was hard to leave, but I know and hope I will be back soon to see even more improvements!
Then it was back to the Guesthouse. Three of us were leaving today and then 2 were leaving tomorrow. The rest would go to Tanzania for a week before returning home. Everyone but Bryan, Rob, Ashley and I headed to see Ester’s Family. Ester is a friend of the family who is from Naivasha (about 1.5 hours from Nairobi).
The four of us headed to do some last minute shopping and get a bit to eat. In the Market, I meet some neat people. I met Rose and Anna. I finished my shopping and had no money left. I traded my shoes and jacket away. It was fun to do some shopping. We headed back to the Guesthouse to pack up and head to the airport. We had so much luggage that Ashley and I barely fit in the back of the car. We must have hit every stoplight and traffic jam. I thought we might never reach the airport.
We did and our flight was delayed.
The flight boarded around 7:30 and we all three made it okay. We were headed home!

Pictures from the Vocational School

Our ride out to the school. What an adventure!


Mom and Dad on the Stage of My Grandmother's Building. What a View!


A Picture of the School.



Bryan and Rob working on the roof.


Mom with the goats sold by the MCC Foundation last Christmas.

Our Trip to the Vocational School, Thur. July 6th

We awoke in time for breakfast. We had gathered all of our protective gear. Today was the day we were going to visit the vocational school. The school van was to pick us up at the Guest House around 8:30. We waited until about 9:30 or 9:45 and we had not heard from the van or Patrick. We decided to hire another ride to Ngong. This is a small town about 40 minutes outside of Nairobi. We got another car. We were all feeling very tense, Patrick had told us he would meet us at Ngong at 10:00. We were to meet up with the Australian team as well. The van arrived and we all piled in. After a short stop for gas, we were on our way. Or at least that is what we had thought. The van started to stall and then would not start. We had broken down. They thought it was bad gas. Come to find out it was really that diesel had been put in by mistake. They were able to get us two other cars to take us to Ngong. The cars dropped us at Ngong and we waited. The Australians were nowhere in sight. So Mona and I decided to walk around. Mom wanted to take corn and we were just bored. We stuck out like sore thumbs. If felt different to be the minority for a change. We walked by all the little shops, the market and then saw that it had been about an hour and the Australians had arrived. They had Patrick cell phone number and he had called to say he would be late. Ian was the Choir director. He wanted some company walking to the market. He wanted to do some shopping for his family. I found him very delightful and eager to be apart of the culture. He informed us he had just been told he had a heart condition and his doctors advised him not to co0me on the trip. This worried us but we kept a watchful eye. After about another hour, Patrick pulled around the corner in a white flat bed truck. We all started cheering and waving. We must have made quite a sight! After they filled up with gas, we all loaded up. They had put a mattress in the back for the ladies. It did not matter. The dust and bumps were hard to describe. With nowhere to really hold on we were off on our adventure. The truck went up a hill and then the dirt road heade3d into the most beautiful county. It was green and lush. The mountains spread out across the horizon. I took a deep breath and felt like I was blessed for having the experience to see such a place. The road was bumpy and we had to stop to go over holes. But for the most part the trip was okay. As were neared the bottom of the valley, I s\potted a herd of Giraffe. There must have been 10 –15 of them walking among the trees. I got goose bumps. We also saw a couple of ostrich. Every village we passed, children would stop what there were doing to wave. It was a warm welcome. To me the view got more beautiful as we went along. We finally reached our spot. The vocational school is situated on top of a hill. We had to climb to the top of the hill. We had brought food for the boys, the Australians and our group. We had to carry it to the top. When we reached the top, I could see my brother on top of a building hammering and I also saw 2 other buildings. It was beautiful. I said to a lady who owned the truck and was walking with us, that I thought the view was beautiful. She told me this was one of the ugliest parts of Kenya. She told me that the West was more beautiful with the tea farms and the green plants. I tried to explain to her that the mountains were pretty in their own different way! She just smiles and kept on walking. Beauty really is in the eye of the beholder!!!
We were happy to be reunited with the men in our group. The area was so quiet. The only noise we heard was the hammer from the men. We found out that Carl had killed a poisonous green snake yesterday. Everyone seemed to be busy at work. With missing a day, I knew my brother would be determined. We set up lunch in a building that is going to be a dorm. There were three building up. Two were dorms and 1 was a classroom. The classroom was the one they were building the trusses and putting on the roof. Patrick commented how amazing the men were. He said they had accomplished in a day what usually took over a week if not two. All the supplies had made it except for a toolbox that was stolen by the Masai. There were goats being tended by two young boys. There was also a family who watched over the school. My dad showed us around. He showed us the building that my grandmother donated. It was amazing. It was to be the dining hall, meeting room and auditorium. It had a stage and the view took my breath away. I was over come with emotions. All I could do was just sit and think about the opportunities that this vocational school would provide. I thought about my grandmother and all she stood for and how much I miss her. My mom and dad stayed close to me and I appreciate that. I needed them there. There was a stage and my grandmother would have smiled to see my mom doing her signing on the stage that was made of dirt. The building will be amazing when it is finished. I was sad that it was not further along. In the mean time, we had found out that the Masai had been taking over some of the land and maybe the well. The Chief came and met with my dad. I over heard him tell him, he needed to shape up. The school would bring a lot of good to his people and they needed each other’s support. I sat for a long time in my grandmother’s building…thinking and reflecting on all the emotions I was flooded with. I am thankful I was able to be there to see what she was able to provide. I am anxious to see it in the future and what it will develop into.
My brother did not want to leave until he had finished, Robert, one of the Australians, was a huge help. He was in the building business and he jumped right in to help. The others just observed and talked with us about what they have been doing to support the school. It was getting dark and we had lots of people to get home safely. He agreed to leave at 5. We packed up all the equipment and headed for the truck. Patrick told us he wanted to stay behind and talk with the workers and tribe to work some things out. I worried about leaving him, but he seemed okay. I brought up the rear with my dad who was taking his time with his knees. To climb back down the hill was a bit of a chore. We made it back on the truck and had a bumpy ride home. We were fortunate that when we got back to Ngong, our van driver pulled up minutes later! What a blessing.
I am not sure when I think back on the sunset as we were leaving if my grandmother would have every made it to see the school. I know she would have been impressed with the layout and opportunities it would provide for the children of Mathare Valley. My grandmother was a great woman and she gave from her heart. Her gifts will impact many who may not have had much to live for. Through her kindness, young children may have a future. Through God’s grace, this school will shine and young people will succeed!

Last Day at the Clinic Wednesday July 5th, 2006

Our day began around 2:30 or so with Bryan coughing and having a hard time sleeping. He ended up on the bathroom floor with the shower running for the stream. The boys got up and left the room about 5:30. They were headed to the vocational school to put a roof on one of the buildings. We were all a little worried about them. The school is in the middle of nowhere. There are animals and other dangers. We sent them off well prepared. Our prayers have been about their safety. Then we all went back to sleep for a while. We got up at 7am to get ready for our day. We were all a step behind or a step slow today. Our driver picked up us at 8:30 to go to the school. They students and teachers were so excited to see us. Many said they had missed us so much and were glad we had returned. We set up for the clinic. There was an Australian team who has been supporting the school as well. They were here this week. It was nice to get to meet them and talk about the school. Two of the team members helped with the clinic, Ian and Philip. They were very helpful and very nice. It was a good day. I was able to work with the medicine and help Katherine with the records. The others worked with treating and seeing the scabies and ringworm. As the last class went through, one child complained of a sore tooth, so we gave her a toothbrush. Then every child after that also complained about a sore tooth. We had enough tooth brushed to give one to each of the last children we saw. The clinic ended early, so we had some time to visit with classrooms. We tried to stay out of the Australians way; they had been working in the classrooms. At 2 o’clock every Wednesday, the teachers have a worship service together. We were invited to attend. They sang songs, prayed, read from the Bible, and even had the Australian Preacher have a short sermon. It was really moving. The teacher's faith poured out in their songs and prayers. This time they spend together as teachers and Christians makes them stronger and gives them the strength to face the challenges of working with the children in the conditions they have. It was very powerful and meaningful for us to be a part of the experience.
Our driver had come to get us in the middle of the service. We left feeling bad for interrupting and leaving without saying good-bye. It was to be our last day at the school. I felt like it was leaving without any closure. I hope we can find time to come back.
After a short trip to Westlands to do some shopping, it was back to the guesthouse for a restful evening and getting ready for the next day.

The Polictics of Africa

In Africa nothing is ever easy and straight cut. My dad and Patrick have been to the airport 3 times to get the generator donated to the Vocational school. Today they had been given the okay it was there and should be picked up. Patrick and Dad went to the airport around 8:30am and arrived back at the guest house a little before 8:00pm. They went through arguing all day with the officials and having to get pages stamped and signed and this and that. I know it must have been a lot of red tape. A lot of the times, they just want to feel like they are important. Although there is a lot of corruption. The police as for bribes, the government is unjust, and people are treated unfairly. My dad told one of the people he was dealing with that “No Good Deed goes unpunished.” They man looked at him and then dad repeated it. Then the man finally understood and then got to work to avoid my dad. We waited all day for my dad to return. We prayed a lot and sent good vibes.
While my dad was working so hard, the rest of us went to the Masai Market. It was an experience. I decided that I wanted to talk with this one Masai woman sitting under a big yellow umbrella. I must have talked with her for 20 minutes. She told me that the men in the market were the middle men. The sold to the white people and gave then women or sellers only half the money. She told me they sometimes even abused them. I from then on only bought from the women sitting by their things. It is was so disturbing to me. The women really worked so hard and yet were getting scammed by their own people. Hard to believe!
We all got separated in the market. Finally we all go back together.
We walked to the Norfolk Hotel for samosas and a cold drink. It was so relaxing sitting in the restaurant. From there we took an old time English cab to the guest house.
At the guest house, it was just more waiting and prayer for my dad. Pamela and Prudence came to dinner. Prudence is mom’s godchild. She is such a beautiful child. Her smile lit up the room. They only stayed for short time.
My brother and the others were getting so impatient. They had really wasted a whole day of building. I felt really bad for them, but there was not a whole lot to do. I know my dad was doing all he could do and would not leave until he had the generator.
When we heard them pull in, we all went tour and cheered and cheered. It was quite a site. They then tried to decided what to do next. They decided to wait until morning to leave. We all sat around and listened to the story of the day from my dad. It so reminded me of my childhood.
All in all is was a good day. God watched over us and kept us all safe.
Hugs and kisses to Megan and Kyle! I am anxious to see you both very soon.
Love and happiness,
Bethany

A Rough Ride

Sorry No Pictures from today! I wanted to keep my camera clean.

We woke up early to get packed and ready for the ride home. We were going to try to see some leopards on the way home. We went in search of the leopards and saw a small family of Giraffe. We never did get to see them, but we saw lots of other game. We went across a river and the driver said the bridge was too far away. It was a little scary, but just added to the adventure. The ride home was very interesting. We were going to fast, I thought we would lift off the road or the dirt! We made it home almost an hour before the other van. Come to find out that they had been stopped by the police and were being suspected of smuggling diamonds ( the police really just wanted a bribe). The dust was so bad at times, it was coming up from the floorboard. We must have opened and closed the windows 100 times. The pot holes were not any better coming home. We made a call of nature stop on the dirt road in-between a Masai Village and a Kikuyu home. We all went into the bushes and felt very unsafe. I was not sure if a cow, goat, snake, or person might come up beside me. Needless to say, we all made it home safely. My brother and Rob went to town to an art shop. They rest of us relaxed and got settled back in our new rooms at the Guest House. Dinner was at the Carnivore. It is a tourist place that use to serve all different types of game meat. They had no choices. The exotic game we had was camel, ostrich, and crocodile. None of which were very good. I would not recommend that place to anyone. We used to be able to get a wide variety of really good meat, but no more. The best things were the sauces and the dessert (if you know Africa, you know the desserts are terrible).
I got to talk with Charley tonight and it was great to hear from them. I miss them and I am looking forward to seeing them soon.
Love and happiness,
Bethany

What an amazing day!

What an amazing day! It began rather early. Ashley is my roommate in our tent. She thought she had heard an elephant. She got out of bed at 5:30. There is a river that surrounds the camp. Many times, animals come to the river to get water. We had a hippo there all the time, we saw dikers ( like a deer) and baboons come to get water. Anyway, we got up and got going. We got to see a hot air balloon take a group out on a game hunt. Mom says when she turns 60 that is what she wants to do. Very cool! We were in the van on the look out by 6:30. The sun had not yet risen so we got to see it rise on the plains. It was amazing to watch the sun rise. Completely beautiful! We saw lots of animals. In the morning game trip we saw a herd of elephants with several small babies. They we in the bushes. We also saw giraffe on the plains. They are so easy to spot in the yellow tall grass. At about 9:30 we were taken to have a bush breakfast. We parked the car and walked for about 10 minutes out into the game park. We turned a corner and 2 tables were set up with linens and breakfast. There were several Masia with knives and a guard with a gun. There were lots of baboons who were interested in what we were doing. It was a different experience then I have ever had. The food was good and the scenery was even better. After the breakfast in the bush, we were taken on a walking safari with 2 Masai warriors. The went on foot through the bush. We found fresh droppings, but never saw any dangerous animals. We saw a lot of spiders and a crocodile on the bank. What an exhilarating experience. I was excited, scared, and a little worn out. That was a first for me.
After our walk, we went for a dip in the pool. Ashley, Patrick and I were the only ones. It was cold…colder than the Baltic sea…but it was so refreshing and really helped my back out a great deal. After our dip in the pool, I took a short nap in our tent. The sounds of the animals put me to sleep. I am not sure if it was a bird, frog or monkey that was making this calming sound. I slept so sound. Some of the group went to the Masai Village for a tour and a chance to learn more about the culture. They said they really enjoyed themselves and they were intrigued by their culture. At 4 pm they had not returned, but there were enough of us to go ahead in one van on the afternoon game drive. We saw lots more animals: 15 lions, including cubs, cheetah, zebras, and many more. It is amazing that you can be that close to the animals and they seem not to even care.
After the drive we had dinner and were entertained by the Masai dancing, singing, and jumping. It was fun to watch and see the bright red costumes. The Masai are so fascinating because they are one of the only tribes left who have held fast to the old world traditions. We hung out with Patrick and learned about his life and what young people do in their spare time. I so enjoyed getting to know Patrick better.
We went to bed in our tents. My brother decided to play tricks on Ashley and I by scratching on our tent. We laughed and laughed. Finally we went to bed to the sounds of the animals.
It is amazing how wonderful Africa is and how I am blessed to be a part of this experience.
Love to all especially Megan, Kyle, and Charley!
Love and happiness,
Bethany

Off on Safari

We were up at 6:30 to get packed and ready to leave on safari. We all got packed and to the breakfast table by 7:30. The vans arrived at 7:30 and we were all ready to go when Pamela and Patrick were no where to be found. We called and their car had broken down. They were getting a taxi to bring them right away. It was a little before nine before they arrived at the guest house. We all loaded into the vans. One with the young people and the other van was the old one. Yes, I was still able to get into the young van. We headed out of town. We made some stops along the way. We stopped at an overlook of the Rift Valley. It was over cast and raining today so we did not get see very much of the Rift Valley. The trip out to Fig Tree Camp took about 6 hours on some of the worst roads you could imagine. There were mile long sections of the road left unpaved because they ran out of money. Pot holes that would eat you up. At times it was better to drive on the side of the road then on the road. The dust was so bad and we were all covered by the time we reached camp. Our Driver was named Kamal. He was a different Kamal then we know from the guest house. He was very funny and informative as we were driving. He was so impressed with Rob’s GPS device. We keep track of the altitude and plotted our direction and coordinates. It was pretty cool. On the road to the camp we saw zebra, giraffe, gazelle, ostrich, and impala. All before we got into the game park. We saw them on the side of the road. It was pretty cool. There are not as many zebras as we had seen before. Lots of Masai were herding their cattle and now goats. Their red clothes make them easy to see.
We arrived at the camp 3 hours late. We did some off roading on the way. To enter the camp you have to cross a bridge. The camp is surrounded by a small river. The camp was amazing. We were escorted to lunch and then to our tented rooms. When we walked to our room, it faced the river. Right in front of our room was a Hippo in the water. It raised its head to look around as I was looking. Simply amazing. The rooms were fantastic. They are tents in the front with a porch overlooking the river. There are two beds with lights, tables, and closets. Attached to the tent by a door is a big private bath with a big shower and bathroom with running water. This is much better then our MASH experience. After we put our stuff away we were off on our first game drive. The tops of the vans pop up so you can look out. Very cool! We saw lots of animals. Gazelle, water buffalo, topi, impala, zebra, wart hog, and even several lions. Two lions, a female and male, had just finished eating their kill for the day. The half eaten animal was still laying beside them. Then we also saw a mommy lion and her 3 cubs playing by the water. It was really cool. We were able to get really close. Then we went in search of an acacia tree, the tree of life, to photograph. The other drivers thought we were crazy for driving around to take pictures of a tree. Mom and Rob wanted to use it on the Mercy Care Center Web page.
It was an exciting time and the game park, Masai Mara was so beautiful. With the wind in my hair and the animals running beside, I felt so at home. All the memories of my childhood safari’s came rushing back.
After the Safari, it was shower and dinner. Then we all sat by the camp fire pit and talked. I really am enjoying getting to know Patrick’s wife, Pamela. We decided it would be early to bed, because we will get up and start on our second game drive at 6:20am.
It was a great day and I enjoyed the people I was with very much. I thought a lot about how much Megan and Kyle would love to see all the animals and to see all the different things. I hope to be able to show them to them soon. Not until they are a little bit older.
Love and happiness,
Bethany

A Day to Reflect

Today we went to the school early to set up for the clinic. My dad and Patrick went to the airport early this morning. When they got there they found out the generater was not even in the country. They promised it by Monday. We will see!!
We began the clinic with the “baby class” or preschool. They were so afraid that some were crying and others were just shaking. I found myself holding them around their bellies to reassure them it was okay. I tickled them and spoke to them in Swahili, to try to relax them. I found myself in tears most of the day. The children were covered with scabes and ring worm. Some had malnutrution. One little boy named Andrew, looked as if his leg might be broken. His shin was bludging out and had an open wound. We saw almost 150 students in 5 hours. There was Sarah with scabes covering her head, Frances with ear infection and eye problems, Andy with ring worm, a student with Malaria, and the list goes on and on. It was overwhelming and at times I had to step outside and take a break. Each child was given worm medicine, a pencil, and a blessing by a team member. As I walked around outside later, one child who had ear drops and cotton put in and was given a toothbruch because her teeth were needing attention, was glowing and the center of attention for all her classmates.
I had taken a break and a preschool teacher came running up to me to set up a time I would come to her class. I told her I would come at 1:30. She was honored I was coming.
At 1:30 I went to the Preschool class. I was welcomed by the students. They sang songs for me about the villages and where they live. The teacher asked if she could teach a lesson on colors. She used homemade posters to review colors using numbers sewn on platic in different colors. The 1 was red, the 2 was black, etc. I was so impressed with how eager the students were to participate in the class. They sang a lot of sond during the lesson. The teacher later explained that she did this to get there attention. I then watched another preschool teacher work with the students on domestic animals. They were making animal soiunds of cows, goats, cats, dogs, etc. It was so impressive. I thanked them for them allowing me to watch and praised them for all their hard work and dedication to the students.
I then went back to the clinic for a while. A young made came through the clinic that had been beaten by his family. He had scare marks and fresh marks all over him. Your heart just breaks. In a world filled with so much these children have so little. I think I have learned to be more appreciative of things and to show love and kindness when possible. I think living in the US thsi is difficult to do. There are so may who will take advantage of you. I need to find a way to live my life with good intent.
In a time for youth, when they should be enjoying fun and laughter…they are suffering hunger and ill living conditions. I wish there was more I could do… No one should live as these poor children are living!

I was fortunate to be invited to watch a 3rd grade math class. The teacher showed me the marks of her students for this session of school. They were very impressive. She was very proud. I bragged and bragged on her and all her hard work. I took a picture of her and her class. She was so pleased!

We were leaving for the guest house when they decided they wanted to finish the desks they had started. They had made 8 desks and 8 benches in on day. It was neatto see the students jump in and want to learn what to do. They were almost fighting to get a chance to use the sand paper. The chour came back and the did very well in the competition. They qualified 10 different songs or groups to go to national! It was very good.
The German Doctors gave them a brand new guitar.
Very tried and well worn we headed for the guest house to order pizza. Yes, you can even have pizza delievered in Kenya. It was not Papa’s but it was outstanding! Then tonight, we are packing up and gearing up for our safari tomorrow. We leave at 8am to go out to Masai Mara for 2 nights and 3 days. We are staying in tents, but mom assures me they are better then MASH!!!! We hope to do a night Safari, but at least we will do 2 full days of safari. I hope to see lions, zebras, cheetahs and much much more. I will not be able to post for several days. I will keep track of our travels ands post on Monday when we return.
A big special kiss for Megan and Kyle! (And you too Charley!!!)
Hugs and laughter,
Bethany

The Real Africa

We began our day by having our van get two flat tires. We were to leave the Guest house at 9:30, but the van did not show up until 11:00. We went to the school to get things organized for the clinic on Friday. I walked around and met some more teachers. They were very welcoming and the students were so excited to see me and welcome me into their classroom. The wood was delivered to build the desk. The students were so excited. We tried to use the electric saw, but had no luck. My dad had gone out to the airport to get the generator we had shipped before we left. He had no luck getting it. They gave him the run around which is so typical of Kenya. I tried to help with getting electricity to the saw. In the mean time, the older boys helped to saw by hand. It wore my brother and Kenny, the builder in our group. Once the supplies were in place for the clinic, we headed to the city market for some shopping. It is an experience to go to the city market. We were about 9 in our group at the time. I spoke a little Swahili, just enough to make the merchants willing to bargain with me. It was fun for the first few minutes and then I just started to help the others. I think over all we got some good deal. We saw a rat get kicked and killed while we were in the market. Charley, I think the meat market must have been at its worst the day we took you there. It was bad but not to the degree you saw it. The flowers were there some but not as many as before. The other members of our team seemed to enjoy the trip. We headed home to get ready for dinner. We were going out to Mom’s favorite Indianrestaurantt to celebrateCarll’s birthday. The meal was wonderful and we had such a good time. Kamau, our taxi driver, went with us to dinner. He still remembers when we climbed the mountain 6 years ago. He is married and has a 3 year old son.
In Africa, you go with the flow. Plans change and you have to make do. Today all of our plans changes and we were at the mercy of the locals. No need to hurry and no need to worry...it is out of our control. This is the real Africa and the reason my dad loves it here!
I talked to my family for the first time tonight. You forget how important it is to hear your loved ones voices. Megan said hello and Kyle said, “Come See me!”. It was good to hear all were doing well and helping out dad! Thank you Megan for all your help!
Tomorrow will be an intense day of seeing each child in the clinic.
Hugs and happiness!
Bethany

Music and Giraffe

Today we were honored to be able to attend the regional Music Competition for Kenya. Mercy Care School has a choir that will perform in 6 categories. We had brought old Candy Striper uniforms from VA Baptist Hospital, that had been donated. They were a pink color. They actually looked very good. The students thought they looked “Smart” ( they word for good or spiffy). The children were so excited to see us. When we first arrived, some of the students we had meet yesterday, came over to greet us. It was a long day of listening to choir after choir. There was native dances and music that was explained to me though one of the teachers, Kathryn. Some of the men in our group went to buy supplies for the Vocational school. They said they would be back in 1 hour, they showed up almost 5 hours later. I think it was just African time. Everything here runs slower and there seems to be no deadlines. We were offer tea by the choral organization. We were honored but it felt uncomfortable to be having tea with all the other adults not being offered anything. There was a crowd of about 50 or 60 adults.
The children sang so well. Their voices were like angels and they harmonized better then any other group. Out of the 6 categories, Mercy Care Center placed first in 4 of the 6!!!!! To see the children’s faces when Kathryn, a teacher, told them was so emotional. They were one of the only private schools to be in the competition and they won more than any other school. The children were so proud of themselves as were all of us! They really did an outstanding job. I video taped them, and I hope to pull their voices off to use in other places. What a unique experience!
I have really made a friend in Kathryn. She and I got along so well all day. She was sad to see me leave at the end of the day. It was a good opportunity to meet some more students. Francis, a very tall young man, would be perfect for a basketball player. Sherri, a young girl with a smile to die for, was bubbling with joy. Jacob, the choir director, was so impressive with the members of the choir. Every one wanted to shake our hand and you would often catch young girls staring at us. When you catch their eye, they would begin to giggle. It was different to be the center of attention.
In the afternoon, we went to the Giraffe center. I can remember when it was just a few people there and now it is a complete tourist area. We did get to feed the giraffe and pet them. Some of the crazier people in our group, got a giraffe kiss! Megan you would have loved the giraffe. Their tongues are long and feel like rubber. Kyle would have loved the wart hogs with their tusks.
I tried to call home today and was sad when I reached an answering machine at home and on Charley’s cell. I guess I wanted to hear their voices. I miss you all and hope to talk with you later tonight.
Tomorrow is one of our groups birthday. We are planning to take him to my mom’s favorite Indian restaurant. Yes Charley, we will ask for yogurt to cool our mouths.
I am enjoying myself and feeling selfish for all the time I have for myself. I am enjoying getting to know the students at the school and the children.
Our van driver has been taking us on adventures. We were almost in 2 major wreaks today. We cheered when we made it home.
I am enjoying getting to know all the members of our team. We are having lots of laughs and good stories.
Love and happiness,
Bethany

Pictures Our First Day!

These are pictures of the students with their new t-shirts.

First Visit to the Mathare Valley

I slept like a rock. I took a muscle relaxer before bed and I think I moved two times.
French toast for breakfast and the van arrived to pick us up. We took all 450 t-shirts today to give out to the students. With just one van, we each had to hold a bag full of shirts. We were fearful the van might not make to the school. We made a pit stop because the driver had never been to the school. The driver thought we knew the directions. We waited on Patrick the headmaster for some time but decided to try to find it ourselves. We made it successfully. As you enter the valley, there were piles and piles of trash. It took your breath away. The valley seemed to have improved. There were many more people and seemed to be more business. We rounded the corner and you could here children yelling and cheering. When we pulled into the parking lot, the children surrounded the van and were all clapping and cheering. It was too much for me to handle. My emotions got the best of me and I broke into tears. The smiles on the children's faces and the joy to see us were overwhelming. As we got out of the van, children began to shake our hands and smile saying, "How are you?" "How are you?"
The school looked good. They had added another building since I was there in 1999. We went into the school. At every classroom, we were welcomeunisonnisom by the students. Smiles and bright eyes followed us as walked back to a classroom they had cleared out just for us. The inside of the school looked good, the floor needed some work and some desks needed repair. We will see what we can do on Thursday with those situations.
We walked through the classrooms and just moved about the school observing.
I watched a young Male teacher whose name I don't remember, teach a math lesson on scale when creating graphs. It was so exciting to see him teach and to see his style of teaching. Students were eagar to answer his questions and asked intelligent questions of him. He also tald me about the Master Schedule. This is where they plan the students day and week, so they receive all the instruction they need.
At 12:00 they had lunch. I placed myself in a 2 level classroom Most of the students were about 9 or 10 years old. I was asked by the teacher if I wanted to feed the children. What a treat. The students were feed a large portion of a mixture of beans, corn, rice, potato and veg. I was so impressed with the portions I was instructed to give. I talked with the teacher, Kathryn. I found it amazing to hear about her view of the school and what she has endured. She told me about the students and they lives and the conditions they live in. I felt it a real privilege to be a part of this daily routine. I asked if I could visit her class later in the week. She was pleased I had asked.
From there I went to a the new Preschool building. I had not been in this building before. There were 3 classrooms. The first one was taught by Peter. A young man from North East Keyna. He was impressed I had been teaching for so long. The students were just eating lunch, so I did not get to see them working. Peter asked if I was a football ( Soccer) fan. I told him that I had been watching some of the World Cup, but that my husband was the real sports nut!
In the second classroom, there was so little light. After talking with Peter, I will see if we can hang a floresent light to help the students see better. This was Janets classroom. She was in town taking so studies on Specail Education. Janet was there in 1999, and I remembered her face easily.
From there I went to the Preschool class and talked with the teachers. They were so wonderful with the students and you could tell in their actions and body language, they loved them all. I meet Brian in this classroom. He was sitting in the front row and took to me right away. We all gotr up to go and get in line for their T-Shirts. Brian, held my hand and walked with me outside. I helped the students put on the shirts and then Brian found me again. He was holding my hand, when his teacher came over to tell me about the young boy. She said he was an orphan who lived with an aunt. He was the smallest student they had at the school. I have included his picture. His face will be in my memory for ever!
The students then put on the t-shirts for a school picture. The excitement they showed over a new shirt blew me away. Once they had gotten their shirt they were just glowing.
I meet several more students, Marcie, Lacy, Agnus ( who wants to be a doctor). They sang for us and the older students performed a well thought out dance. They asked Patrick if they could do a dance for us.
After the dance, we went and toured the valley and saw several familes homes of students who go to Mercy Care Center. The valley is stiil poor and there is still trash and sewer every where. But I do think there has been improvement. There were lots of young children running around who were greeting us with, “How are you?”. The homes have improved some, most are now made of bricks and not just out of must and sticks. The roofs are all time and some are in need.

I guess when you leave a place in such need, you wonder if what little you are doing is making a difference. Then Patrick spoke to the whole group and thanked us for coming and bring more hope and supplies. He said our visits give the students something to look forward to and the teachers the encouragement they need.

Tommorw we will observe a Music Cometition the choir is competeing in and also take part in the schools Sports Day!
I am tried and my mind is racing trying to come to grips with all I saw today and all the ideas I have for how to make more of a difference.
I miss my family and want them to know how grateful I am for them allowing me to have this experience. Hugs and kisses to them.
Love and happiness,
Bethany

Arrived in Nairobi

I am only going to post a short bit on our arrival. I was working last night and went to post and my internet connection shut off. I lost my writing.
We arrived safely.
There were no animals running down the run way like we say the last time we landed.
We claimed all of our bags and made it through customs without openning a single bag. This was a miricle and almost never happens.
The city was green and clean compared to 6 years ago. The Guest House was just a wonderful and relaxing as I remembered.
Patrick, the headmaster of the school, came to have tea. He was sad to hear I was alone and seens Charley his best and hope all will go well with the children. I know that I don't have to worry about the kids, because Charley is watching over them. I am truely grateful.
We sorted the t-shirts and got unpacked and rested. I think I might have hurt my back, so I plan to take it easy.
Hugs and kisses to Megan and Kyle.
Love and happiness,
Bethany

Addis Ababa

We were shuttled through Addis Ababa to the Wabe Hotel. The hotel had the smallest elevators. It would only hold a few at a time and was a scary ride. We all had our own room with a balcony. Dinner was served and then it was off to bed. Addis Ababa is a big city. I was surprised at the poverty and how dirty the city was. The mountains that surrounded the city were beautiful. The people had the most beautiful faces. I young boy kept trying to sell me something on the bus. His smile would have brighten even the saddest person. He was living such a poor life and yet his smile was so bright and big it would have lit up the city. His face lingers even to day in my mind.
Our flight today is only 1 and half hours to Nairobi. It was a short flight and I got an bulk head seat...Lots of leg room.
I was feeling a little run down today. I guess 16 hours on a plane will have that effect. I an anxious to get to Kenya. I am anxious to see the school and see the children.
I tried to post and check e-mail. It took almost 10 minutes to load the Yahoo homepage. I will not complain about dial up service any more. The service was slower here.

Departed Safely

We left DC on time. All the bags were checked and we all boarded the plane on time, despite my brothers last minute things to do. It still did not feel real. I was on my way to Africa. I was leaving my family for 2 weeks. When I called to check on the kids, Megan was in tears. I did not want the kids at the airport, because I knew it would be too hard on me and them as well. Charley was great! He helped us unload the 12 large bags filled with supplies for the School. Then he left us to take care of Megan & Kyle. He always seems to know what to do to make the situation easier for me. Mom and I waited at the airport as slowly all the other members of our team arrived. As each bag left the pile, I felt more and more relief. The bags were so big, each weighing about 70 pounds each. We all still had carry on's and large purses!!!
It was a great feeling on relaxation to get all of us on the plane. I really missed Charley when we took off. I needed his hand to reassure me that it would all be okay and the flight would be safe. I closed my eyes and thought of him. The flight was 9 hours. We were feed 2 big meals and several small snack. We had to stop in Rome to refuel. We were on the ground about an hour. No one was allowed off the plane. After we refueled, we were off to Addis Ababa, about a 6 hour flight. I watched 3 movies and slept quite a bit during the 2 flights!
I thought a lot about my life and all the changes I have have had in the past few weeks. It was the first time I had really had a chance to sit down and think about all that has happened to my family and I. I thought about how lucky I was to have so many people who care so much for my family and me. Just wanted you all to know, I might be half way around the globe, but I am thinking of you all and smiling.
We arrived safely and made it to the hotel in Addis Ababa! What a long day! Kisses and hugs to Megan and Kyle!
Love and Happiness!
Bethany