Habari? (How are you?)

Mzuri (I am well.)

This Saturday morning a new friend and I went for a walk down the river and falls, then looped around the red dirt road filled with ruts and muddy puddles. The view during this walk is just one of the things I so love about living here at Tenwek—mountains, farmland, river snaking along, cows and donkeys walkin’ on the road with us, and gorgeous bright colored flowers fill my senses with wonder and my heart with thankfulness at the opportunity God’s given me to live here for a season. Children called to us “Hello-how are you?” loving to practice their English. Tenwek began in the 1930’s and has developed into a community of kind & caring people.

I woke up homesick Tuesday, but was encouraged by Scripture in Proverbs 3:5-6 talking about “Trusting in the Lord and not leaning on our own understanding,” and Christie’s listening ear and prayer for me. Also having a Bible study gathering that evening allowed me to meet, laugh and connect with new Kenyan friends who work at the hospital. It was not the kind of homesick where I wanted to be home, but rather a deep feeling of being overwhelmed by all the learning and newness in my life.

Our second week of school was great! Encouraged by many things, especially the time I called to my K-1 class: “Recess is over.” And Will cried- “Yay!!!” running for the school door! (is that normal, or am I simply blessed beyond to be teaching here?)

I have come to realize that one of the good things that will be hard for me is the coming and going, getting close then saying goodbye I’ll be doing living here at the guest house. I’ve grown to appreciate each of the individuals I interact and share daily living with here! It is amazing to hear the stories and adventures of all who travel here, and to anticipate the new arrivals!

Love and miss you all! Thanks for reading this, and encouraging me through comments or chatting or even Skype! It fills me with wonder that even in Africa I can be so in touch with my loved ones in the States.

New Swahili words:
Kipiganga-the meeting place (I love this!!!) There is a “kipiganga” near the guest house where we’ve celebrated a birthday and conducted Friday Fun scavenger hunts for the children.
Hodi- one says this upon entering a home, rather like knocking. The response is
Karibu (welcome).
Habari? (How are you?)
Mzuri (I am well.)