I finally arrived in Kenya to join the girls last week. I’ve been so excited to catch up on everything … and there was a lot! Oh and by the way… I realized it’s winter here haha! I started journaling to make sure I didn’t miss anything on this journey; then I realized my whole LIFE is a journey and adventure… God is always working not just in Kenya; there is always something to be documented, always something worth remembering and meditating on!

On my first day, I shadowed Charles in the slums. The poverty struck me, but I also noticed the remarkable architecture and intricate design… every little piece fit perfectly, an image of everything held together in the palm of God’s hands. I was awed by the beauty… the people’s faces and clothes were beautiful. Did they see it, I wonder? Did they see what the father saw when He looked at them, or do they feel shame, worthlessness, poverty, and disgust? I wanted to tell each person how beautiful and valuable they are!

We spent the remainder of the week working in the clinic. We asked a lot of questions and tried to learn how to best implement Sana. After observing and hearing what the doctor and staff recommended, we tried to address problems that arose and to work through potential obstacles in order to optimize care to the people of Marurui. We designed several new mHealth modules that we are hoping will greatly facilitate using the technology and healthcare delivery. We also tried to address the pharmacy inventory, a filing system, patient records, and other logistics that would make the clinic run more smoothly.

Things have been challenging but good… it’s also been funny to see God’s sense of humor. The past few days we’ve had some surprises… poor Sam got punked the most. She was in the shower one night and the water completely cut off; although frazzled by the unexpected circumstances, she was a trooper and shrugged it off till the next day’s shower. Half way through the next shower, however, the community lights went out. It was the type of darkness that didn’t allow you to see your hand in front of you. Hahaha! At least the water stayed on we joked! God’s been making us malleable, teaching us a lot, and humbling us to do his work. He’s also highlighted several of the blessings we take for granted on a daily basis.

We’ve had some adventures in the city of Nairobi too. We went shopping and came so close to watching Olympic Trials! The Kenyans chose their Olympic Champions Saturday… including David R., the world record holder in the 800m. As a runner myself, I went nuts at the idea of having the chance to watch this race. It would’ve been quite an experience, but it’s still a blessing to know we were only a few kilometers away when it was happening.

Sunday we went to Africa Transformation Missions (ATM) church and worshiped the Lord on a top floor in a building in Nairobi. It felt like we were in the heavens as the birds flew past the windows and the sunshine exploded through the room. Beautiful voices in multiple languages rang out! After church we went to meet with Pastor John. Along the ride to rift valley, we saw monkeys and a variety of animals, sink holes that had been created since March, and beautiful valleys and mountains. We got to hear the story about Kathy’s house and how it rescues vulnerable populations such as orphans and widows, especially those affected by HIV/AIDS. Kathy’s house also trains young boys in soccer, and from what we hear, their team has been having a winning streak and is one of the best. The project also has cows and a farm that will hopefully allow this project to be self-sustained. During our visit, we actually got to enjoy some fresh milk with our coffee from one of the cows. Quite delicious! (Like the fresh eggs from the chickens at the PFC house that we enjoyed this morning)!

Today we went to Tree House, an orphanage that cares for 34 children. When we arrived, the children sang us a song and afterwards we all danced and played together.  Outside, we saw the sack garden with kale, a nutritious and fast growing plant that satisfies the children’s diet and taste. We also played soccer with the children and the staff. After speaking with the staff, we are hoping to collaborate and finalize a food security plan for the children.

God will continue to do great things this week and your prayers are greatly needed and appreciated. Thank you for your continued support! Mungu akubariki (God bless you)!!!

Sandy :)