The Dust of Africa

The Death of Mawenzi

2010-08-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

We recieved word today that our sweet little elephant, Mawenzi, has died. She was the smallest of the babies. It was determined that she had a congenital heart defect as well as parasites that attacked her stomach. She simply could not get enough nutrition. We know her care givers are saddened by her death as provided her with such gentle and loving care. Please pray for the men who loved her and cared for her.

Mawenzi with her care-giver.

Waiting for her bottle.

Ahh, breakfast!

We will be fostering Shukuru now. Watch for details and pics of the newest baby to arrived at the orphanage.

Becki

Last Days in Kenya

2010-08-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

We didn't want to say goodbye! We met so many wonderful people who have become our forever friends! When we ALL return to Kenya they will be there waiting for us. Our last days were spent sharing meals, worship, and play!

Our family with Kenna and Riri, daughters of Ezekial and Lucy.

Lucy and I at church on our last Sunday.

Our team at church with Lucy and Ezekial.

Discover your Belovedness goes everywhere!

Chance and Mama Bear! He has decided to live with her!

Fun at Mzungu "day care" with Rachel and Allison

My turn Chance!

"I WIN" ~ an exuberant Rachel wins at Hide & Seek

House blessing for John's house and goodbye's in BulBul.

John and his daughter, Mercy and nephew Willie! The finished house.

We are home now! Our work in Kenya is not finished. Please continue to follow the blog as we will update you on future projects and trips to BulBul.

Becki and kids!

BulBul Cleanup

2010-08-03T02:25:00.000-07:00

What a project! We joined members of Karen Community Church for a "clean-up" of the BulBul streets. There are no garbage service or sanitation services in BulBul. Most garbage is thrown into the streets and set on fire. Children in the community joined us as we filled over 200 bags of garbage. It was a huge event for the KCC church and the BulBul Community!

KCC Church members gathering at the start of the cleanup

Team Mzungo ready to work.

Allison and Rachel and their kid team!

The black sludge is sewer backup in ditches. Raking and spraying for mosquitos helps to keep less buildup and stink.

Liz, from KCC, Allison and James picking up more sludge!

Chance and church elder Gitau discussing Kenya and American life.

Chance and his shovel were on "sewer" duty.

Youth and children from the community were eager to help clean their streets.

Sr Pastor Luke of KCC joined us. He was amazing to watch going to each house along the way visiting with the BulBul community.

Rachel on "rake" duty. She raked and dug up plastic so we could get it all picked up.

Rachel and her rake!

How we spent the day! Each piece of white is plastic.

We are feeling truly blessed to have become a part of the faith community at KCC. The work being done in BulBul feel just like being at Vancouver First!

See you soon,

Becki and "team mzungo"

Some Fun in the Sun

2010-08-01T09:27:00.001-07:00

In the midst of all the rewarding work we have been doing we took a few afternoons to enjoy the ocean, sand and each other!

We spent time in the Indian Ocean, on the volleyball court and dancing at the disco! It was a joy to have Jon with us at the coast for a few days. Uno became a favorite after dinner activity. We were all delighted to learn the Indian Ocean is WARM and not so delighted to be covered in seaweed!

Here are a few shots from our fun in the sun!

Getting ready to head into the ocean!

Rachel and Allison wave jumping - yes Rachel is REALLY in the ocean!

At the turtle rehabilitation center in Watamu - a highlight for Rachel!

Rachel and her sea turtle - it does not fit in her suitcase though...

Our view of the ocean!

Some good clean rugby on the beach - notice Jon's skills on the 'field'

Clean until the sister gets that ball...

Chance and Richard kayaking in the ocean

Rachel getting the party started - please note NO ONE else is dancing!

We earned the term "mzungu" that night

Jon's stellar jump serve

Chance at the net - notice the height

Allison, with perfect form!

Mom was there with us, but she was either behind the camera or deep into a good book!

All our best,

The kids in Kenya!

Our Time at the Gede Special School

2010-07-28T07:04:00.000-07:00

We were deeply touched by the 5 days we spent at The Gede Special School. The conditions in which the children live is like nothing any of us have ever experienced and would not be tolerated in America. But they live with joy, happiness and a genuine spirit. We each would like to share a bit about how we were touched.

All of us at the end of the final day.

Allison's Reflections:

My time at the Gede Special School was filled with a mix of emotion. When we left the first day I was angry. I could not pinpoint my anger, but knew it was directed at the unfairness that exists in our world. It was sad to see the conditions in which these children live. I soon realized that the children at the school were getting a great education and being cared for by staff who genuinely loved the. The compassion and joy the students showed soon won me over and I soon connected. I particularly bonded with 2 little boys, maybe 6 and 7 years-old (Pajama Boy and Blue-Eyes) . Blue-eyes was ornery and stood out as the trouble maker in the bunch. He and I bonded over bubbles and learning to share. Pajama boy was gentel and kind, he too liked bubbles and was very good at sharing them. Both boys were very active, we spent the afternoon doing somersaults, cartwheels, wheelbarrow races and building hats out of boxes. It is pure joy to have a 7-year-old run and jump into your arms.

Additionally I had the pleasure of getting to know Benjamin, he is physically handicap but very smart. He is progressing through school right on track. From him I learned patience. You can see he has shortened limbs and does not grow like others his age. Tasks suck as walking and eating are a challenge. But he does them all with a smile and jump in his step. To watch his concentration and patience while coloring and blowing bubbles made me step back and take a deep breath. There is no reason we cannot stop and smell the roses, or enjoy the bubbles of life, every once and a while. My time at Gede Special School, and the lessons learned there, were life changing and something I will never lose sight of.

Me and my 2 boys learning their colors while coloring

Benjamin, Blue-Eyes and I blowing bubbles

Building hats out of boxes with Blue-Eyes

More bubbles with the CP kids

Rachel's Thoughts:

In planning our trip to Africa being able to go to Kupenda was one of my main highlights. I was very excited and anxious to meet the kids and see the school, but when we first entered the school and we were swarmed by smiling students just wanting to shake our hands, I instantly felt at ease and at "home." I have taken a couple years of sign-language and with most/half of the schools population being deaf I was hoping my sign-language skills would come back. They did!! Well mostly... however, American signs and African signs are different but it was easy for me to learn new signs and chat with the students. Most of my time was spend talking with students, learning their "patty-cake" games, hopscotch games, reading with a few students (mostly hearing them read to me), learning how to make pin-wheels, and lots of coloring!! It was really neat for the children to share with me the games they play and I had a blast trying to learn them. I would have to say their "patty cake" game is very hard to remember and I never really got it, but I did get the hopscotch and pin-wheels (you have to run with the pin-wheels to make them work- they are made from palm branches and a stick).

I was constantly reminded of the joy that children possess no matter where they live or their life situations. When I was at Kupenda it reassured me that becoming a teacher is the right calling for my life and being with these students helped to confirm my desire to keep working with children. America or Africa... in the end kids are all the same! They need structure, conversation, laughter, and lots of love!

Trying to learn "patty cake" but not succeeding so laughing instead!

Hop-scotch MASTER!

Relaxing after cartwheels and swinging kids around

Pinwheels!

Chance's thoughts:

"Futbol" is like the common language at Kupenda. All the kids would come running when we arrived ready to play. Kupenda is on the same site as the Gede Primary School. When we played, it was ALL kids ... deaf, hearing, and handicapped! Jon and I started a game each morning. They would play all day if their teachers would let them. I had to play barefoot! Dirt field and rocks slowed me down only the first day. The big boys were very strong and competitive. Everytime we played the same boy was the goalie! His clothes came off as soon as hit the dirt and he played in his boxers. On our last day at the school, Richard helped me talk with Nico in Swahili. Nico is an older boy who had not interacted with us all week other than to say Jambo and shake our hand. He said he wanted to play futbol. He and I took a ball to the little field and played lots of futbol! Nico scored a goal!! I think I missed out on not knowing Nico sooner.

Playing barefoot!

Jon playing soccer ~ barefooted!

Jon and I with Kupenda kids

Playtime with the little ones

Nico scores a goal!

Becki's reflections:

It was a most wonderful week at Kupenda. The kids there are survivors and have amazing stories. I think my world is rough somedays but nothing compares to what these children have endured. They are full of joy, love unconditionally, and are eager to have you be a part of their lives. I was able to connect with children I met three years ago. Rasheed smiled when he heard Ellie said Hi from the US! Nurma, the little girl in the yellow dress with only one leg, who I played dolls with, now has an artificial leg and is walking instead of hopping. I got a big hug from her.

My week was highlighted by Allison, Rachel and Chance! Everyday I saw God working through them to touch the lives of these children and allow these children to touch them.

Chance, speaking Swahili, engaged Nico in a simple game of Futbol. As they played, the headmaster came out to watch. She was laughing! She shared that this was the first time Nico had played futbol. She couldn't believe that he was talking to Chance and playing with him. Nico and Chance were laughing! They were guys just hanging out together.
Allison was a magnet for "blue eyes"! He waited for her to arrive and then he sent Kupenda spinning. Besides begin deaf, it appeared he had little formal education and other disabilities. By the end of the week, he was engaged not only with Allison, but with other kids. He was sharing! He was laughing! He wasn't hitting or biting. The deputy teacher called him a trouble-maker, another teacher said he just needed love, and of course Allison took him in her arms and loved him unconditionally!
Rachel's laughter spread through the school. She was like the Piped Piper... kids following her everywhere just to see her smile. Her ability to organize a classroom became apparent no matter where she was or what she was doing. She was the "Queen" of play. Everyone wanted to play with Rachel. Her energy carried over to all the kids.

God is good!

Our 10 Children at Gede School

2010-07-26T08:53:00.000-07:00

School for a child at the Gede School is year round, with 2 small breaks. They live there, learn there and eat all their meals there! The Kenyan Government provides basic needs for the school. But due to the spcial needs of these children their education takes more than provided. There is a sponsorship program set up with Kupenda for The Children that allows people to help provide financial support to meet the most basic needs of the students.

Sponsorship is $150/year for each child. We as a team decided that we could find enough friends and family to help us sponsor 10 students. If you are interested in sponsoring a child, or contributing to a sponsorship let us know!

Here are the 10 children we have agreed to sponsor:

Katana, 19, Hearing Impaired, Level 4

Said, 6, Cerebral Palsy, Nursery School

Benjiman, 11, Physically Handicapped, Level 3

Francisca, 6, Cerebral Palsy, Nursery School

Mtawali, 17, Hearing Impaired, Level 4

Stella, 13, CP and PH, Level 3

Nuru, 11, HI, Nursery Program - New student at school

George, 17, HI, Level 6

Ndemba, 14, HI, Level 1

Not Pictured: Hamza, 15, CP, Level 1

As you can see many of the older children are in a low level of school. We learned this is due to the fact that many children do not enter Gede School until they are 10 years old. Most are hidden in their villages and parents do not know where to turn.

We have been deeply touched by the children and staff at the Gede School and hope that you will join us in supporting these special children.

All the best,

Your Kenyan Team

Gede School for Children

2010-07-25T22:16:00.000-07:00

Thursday we began our work at the Gede School. We hit the school right as exams were finishing and children are getting ready head back to their families for holiday. We spent Thursday and Friday playing soccer, bubbles and race cars with the children. Most children at the school have a physical handicap, cerebral palsy or are deaf. Communication is a challenge, but the children have so much joy. We will be there Monday and Tuesday as well.

Here are some pictures from our fist few days from the school:

Mom and the bubbles!

Becki doing dishes with the girls before dinner

the big boys playing soccer

Rachel playing soccer with the littler kids

This sign at the Gede Special School

two of the boys carrying our bag of stuff

There are 10 Children at Gede Special School that we have committed to sponsoring. It is $150/child per year for school. We will have names and faces on the blog tonight!

All the best,

Allison and team!

Maasia Mara

2010-07-20T10:24:00.001-07:00

UPDATE - we have internet - here are more pictures!

Our trip was amazing, highlights include migration of the wildebeest through the Maara River, lioness' hunting, giraffes grazing, the millions of zebra and elephants playing in the water.

Pictures speak 1,000 words... so here are some of our favorites!

The vultures eating the dead wildebeest -

eating lunch with the millions of wildebeest waiting to cross the river behind us!

The Hippos - remind us to tell you what sound a hippo makes and what happens when we try to make the sound too -

A really tall giraffe crossing in front of the van

In the van at lunch - this is how we road for 11 hours...

More wildebeests...

Lioness on the perch over the bank, watching her cubs

Zebras and the Acacia (or geshia tree, according to Rachel) at sunset

The King of the Mara and his current lioness

Zebra's and Wildebeasts - there were millions

The Cape Buffalo and a bird

The Lioness hunting w/ wildebeests and zebra in the background

Lion cubs playing on the bank - we saw 11 total!

The wildebeest migration- we did see one wildebeest get snatched by a crocodile and drug under water.

One of the many beautiful elephants we saw!

Dancing with the Masia people.

Take care and lots of love!

Rachel and team

St. Martha's Celebration

2010-07-17T10:15:00.000-07:00

Today was the celebration for St. Martha's Ministry! We were honored to be invited to attend the dedication of the ministry and the land for a much needed orphanage. Although we could not travel to Kismu to see the land, we celebrated in traditional Kenyan style at a local church.

Eunice and I became friends during my trip to Kenya in 2007. We have kept in touch through email and Lois Shaw. It was thrilling to be with Eunice and her husband Caleb. The "international visitors" were treated with great respect and honor. I was asked to speak to the widows and children. I brought greetings and prayers from all of you at Vancouver First! The ladies of St. Martha's send you blessings and thanks!

Eunice, Lois and I catching up!

Speaking to the widows and children.

The widows of St. Martha's

Talking with Kristin, who shared her story ~ An inspiration to us all!

My dream of an orphanage in Kenya is coming true! Soon the walls will go up and the children will have a safe place to live.

We leave early tomorrow morning for the Masai Mara to look for the "Big Five". No email or updates until Tuesday (maybe).

Off to bed,

Becki

Day 5 and BulBul

2010-07-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

Our last day in BulBul was one of the best. In the morning we got to visit John's house and see the finished floor. It was rewarding to see how our hard work had paid off. Even though we only spent a week with this particular community, I speak for us all when I say it felt like home.

John and James, coordinators of the BulBul Youth project.

John's extended family members with our team.

Chance and Willy in his new jersey.

Allison (and the rest of us) were invited to a meeting with the Assistant Chief of BulBul. We spent an hour talking with him about the needs and concerns of the community. Security and a medical clinic are their most important priorities. They, too, asked us many questions about the United States. I thought it was surprising when they said they "feared" muzungos! Allison nominated herself to be our spokesperson. She brought her political expertise to the meeting. We made a good impression and were invited to be a part of the BulBul community.

Our team with officials from BulBul.

After a week of work the girls felt they deserved a little me time. Our new friend Hannah had just opened Twinkle Hair Salon. Allison and Rachel were her first customers. The people who walked by stopped and stared as the mzungus were getting their hair done. While the girls were talking about hair I snuck into the back and got to be reminded what TV was like. I enjoyed a nice futbol game with our friend Joseph.

Allison, Hannah and Rachel at Twinkle Hair Salon

Later we started a friendly soccer match between Team Mzungu and the local boys. Team Mzungu consisted of Allison, myself, Paul(another mzungu) our driver Richard, our chef Mark, and several friends from BulBul. It was a good game that ended with Team Mzungu - 3 and the Locals - 4. It was hard to play because of the high elevation and the rocky field.

Team Muzungo!!

Soccer!!!

Soccer!! (yes, that is Allison playing too)

The highlight of the week for all of us was the awards presentation. Our team was asked to select the best player from each team. We had a hard time because the players were so good! We gave each winning team a trophy. The players got a new jersey and shorts! The best goalies got his very own soccer ball. Players and the community surrounded us as we tried to leave the field. They cheered for us and waved goodbye. Mom and the girls cried!

Charon, best player of the tournament receives his award.

Tonani Kesho, friends!

Chance

PS - this is Rachel's Special Friend!

Rachel and her friend Sandra (3 yrs old).

Day 4 at BulBul

2010-07-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

Today was the day we worked hard to finish our construction project! Yesterday we moved all the rocks and starting smashing the large boulders down. Today we are made sure it was level and then started adding the sand/concrete mix. Chance went into the house with the men and was allowed to use the "smasher" and other tools. Allison and I picked up some shovels to work. The men said, "My turn please." and took the shovels back. It was clear that the "men" did not want use to do this kind of work. Allison, Becki and I spend most of our time playing with kids, practicing futbol, and sometimes if we were pushy we got to shovel a little! :) Water had to be poured many times to keep the floor moist so the concrete doesn't crack. We hired some local workers to help on the project. Making concrete from sand and water is a crazy science!! In the end everyone did a great job and the floor is looking amazing!!!!!

Allison and Chance making cement - Allison got 3 scoops in and the shovel was taken.

Playing soccer with the family in their compound.

Me with my 3 scoops of the shovel.

Chance pouring water on the rocks in the house

We were able to visit two local school in the BulBul community. We went to the only public school ~ BulBul Primary ~ which has 875 students, 20 teachers and 12 classrooms. I was shocked when I heard the numbers. I asked the Deputy Head Teacher how many students were in a classroom and she said about 50 or 60! I can't even imagine teaching that many students crammed into a space about half the size of our classrooms in the states. I asked how do they keep control and she showed me the stick she uses to keep students in line. It gives me perspective and now no matter what classroom or number of kids I get in my future teaching career, there will be no complaining from me! We gave the school pencils and soccer balls. She was THRILLED because they have no money for sports programs. We were invited into the classrooms and got to meet 7th and 8th graders. In one room they all cheered when Chance introduced himself and his age because they were the same age as him! We came to realize that grades are not determined by age but if they can pass the exams.

BulBul Primary School

Level 7 (seventh grade) classroom at the public school.

We visited a private school just down the road. This school had 145 students, 10 teachers and 12 classrooms. We saw classrooms with only 8 or 9 students. We got to meet all the students in their classrooms. Children start going to school at 3 years old so their "Kindergarten" class consisted of 3-4 year olds!! It was fun to see all the children and they are fascinated by us Mzungus! I found when introducing myself that there are also a lot of Rachel's in Kenya! Allison and Becki found about 20 kids they are ready to take home! :)

Looking at the 3-year-old exam books.

Mama with the children at school.

Level 2 (second grade) taking exams

The final part of our day was more soccer. It was the girls day to play. We found soccer cleats passed them out to the girls. It was a frenzy!!!! Who would have thought old soccer cleats were so popular! When we got home at the end of the day we were all exhausted but full of so much warmth and joy. Each day is truly an experience!

Miss you all and sending our love!

Rachel and team!

Quick Post

2010-07-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

We have had a very busy last few days. The camera battery is dead and we are all super tired so we will write more and upload pictures tomorrow! The past week has been joyous and blessed!

We completed the floor of John's house and the soccer tournament. We celebrated the tournament with awards. It was amazing to see how many people in the community came out to support the teams!

Goodnight~

Allison and Rachel!

Day 3 at BulBul

2010-07-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

Phew ~ What a day! We worked HARD today. We laid a floor in John's house, well the first layer!

Chance and John working on the first layer of the floor.

Laying floors in BulBul has a number of steps to the process. The first step consisted of laying the big boulders on the floor ~ to do this we had to move them into the house, from the street, one by one. We then added wheelbarrow loads of smaller rocks. Chance said it was like a puzzle to get all the rocks to fit. Once they were in we added a layer of "soft rock" boulders. We took a sledge hammer to the soft rock to break up even more rocks to add to the puzzle! Tomorrow we mix and poor the concrete over the rocks to create the floor.

Rachel on top of the rock pile.

Chance and Rachel moving soft rock boulders.

Playing catch ~ trying to load the wheelbarrow

More rocks to move!

More boulders to move!

The family and community all pitched in and helped with the project. It is rewarding to see how much the community wants to help make their compounds better. John's family lives in the very small compound. Six families each have a one room "home" within the area. We have been welcomed into the compound and now feel like we are part of the family. I spent part of the morning with "mama" in her outdoor kitchen doing dishes and chatting with the women. In Kenyan culture, if you are invited into the kitchen, you have passed the test! I passed!!

A quick lunch break and we were off to the Sports Store to select trophies for the winners of the BulBul World Cup. Instead of just one we decided it would be nice to have a trophy for each age group. Back to the big soccer field for the U-16 boys match. These boys are quick and agressive players. We got to speak to the players after the game to congratulate them. Tomorrow is the girl's match. Friday is the "pick-up teams" match. Chance has been asked to play with the the U-16 boys. He is hoping he won't have to play bare-footed!

U-16 Team coached by James and John

U-16 Team coached by Daniel. Won the match

We are very tired again tonight.

Blessings from Kenya..

Becki

Day 2 at BulBul

2010-07-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

Our day started at the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. The sanctuary is attached to Naoribi National Game Park to protect and raise orphanged elephants so they can be integrated back into the natural habitat. Our adopted elephant from our first trip to Kenya ~ Limpowata ~ has grown into a curious and playful girl. She has been moved to Western Kenya to continue to be integrated into the elephant society. We had hoped to see her on our drive to the Mombassa but she is having too good a time with her new friends. We were told "foriengers trundling around the park" isn't a good idea. So of course, we have added another baby to our elephant family. Muezi is 18 months old and very sick. She was found in a well in a village. Chance's kind heart picked her so we can help nurse her back to a full and robust life. We have a time to tuck her into bed and get some one on one time with her on August 2!

Muenzi - The elephant we adopted!

Our day in BulBul was amazing. The community (other than the teenage girls) has accepted us and included us in their daily life. The kids walked through the streets meeting and greeting families. It was like a HUGE PARADE as everyone came to meet them. They visited homes and shops. A 9yr old boy who is in the BulBul project has been missing since Sunday. I was asked to go to the family home and pray with the Mother and Godmother. It was an honor to be allowed in the home and be present with the family.

Hazen, Jon and Chance on the walk through BulBul

Bubbles were a big hit for the kids not playing soccer.

Rachel and James talking about Kenyan life

World Cup BulBul began. Today's game was the younger boys. Most played barefoot! We worked hard on the field but it was still covered in rocks and garbage! The community came out to watch. Everyone cheers for everyone! I couldn't help but do some coaching from the sidelines. I am not sure anyone knew what I was saying! The BulBul World Cup is the highlight of our work with the youth!

All of us with Daniel's team before the game

All of us with James' team before the game

John giving instruction to younger children

Jon and Chance playing soccer with young children

Mom, Rachel and James coaching, while Ezekial keeps the line clear

To Nani Kasho

Becki and kiddos!

PS - We enjoyed drive up today!

Kenyan Drive-up - roasted corn on the side of the road

Day 1 at BulBul

2010-07-12T21:49:00.001-07:00

Monday began with a pleasant surprise, Jon Shaw met us for breakfast at NEGST and joined us for the first full day in BulBul. We spent the first part of the day 'mowing' grass on the small soccer field. You can see that 'mowing' means rakes and machetes. After a brief lunch we headed to the big field and began to create the field we will use for the tournament. We lined the field with lime chalk and painted the goal posts. The field is just about Wold Cup regulation size.

We are working with 2 young men in BulBul who are trying to start a community center and outlets for the children and youth. There is a wide-spread drug and alcohol culture in BulBul that is an easy trap for young boys and girls to fall into. We saw a number of examples of that yesterday and it just continued to motivate our work.

We also went to the Community Art Project that James and John are starting. It is an after-school program that does tutoring and art projects for youth in BulBul. They operate with very little in a small one room shack with no electricity. But it provides a safe and productive place for children to come in the afternoon and evening. Rachel and Chance will be supporting their art projects with supplies and energy (as mom and Allison have no artistic talent).

Mom and Ezekiel working hard on the field.

Soccer with one of the young children and a few older boys.

Rachel and the kids, learning to rake.

Rachel and Allison getting ready to 'mow'

Chance 'mowing' the grass

raking trash and brush into piles on the small field

Ezekiel, Chance and Daniel taking a quick break for some air guitar.

the big field before we began chalking and painting

The group lining the field

Allison and the young boy from BulBul who stepped up to help.

Everyone who worked on the field, after we finished

Jon, Daniel, Chance and John walking to the Youth Art Project.

The Youth Art Project in BulBul

Daniel, Hazera, James and John in the classroom

Pictures

2010-07-11T22:35:00.000-07:00

Here are a few picture from meeting with our BulBul team and graduation. The internet is SLOW and won't let us upload anymore... we will try again tonight!

Boesch Bul

2010-07-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

We have had another wonderful day of Kenyan hospitality and friendship. Our morning started not as early as yesterday as are adjusting quickly to the time difference. We worshiped at Karen Community Church this morning. The music was amazing.... a combination of Swahili, contemporary and good old hymns. To see Chance worshiping in such a joyful way ~ singing and clapping and dancing ~ warmed his Mama's heart. Rachel and Allison had no problem dancing and singing!

The sermon this morning was part of a series designed to prepare the congregation for their 40 Days of Community. The focus has been on what harms rather than builds up a community. Ask us to tell you the feather pillow story! Our team was introduced and Allison represented Vancouver First well as she shared our upcoming mission work with Bul Bul.

Of course the highlight of the day for me was to see friends from Boni Land ~ Lucy and Ezekiel and their girls! Tears were flowing and none of us could stop talking. What a wonderful friendship we have built. Thankful for Facebook and email as we can talk on a daily basis!

Rachel made a new friend! A gorgeous little girl ~ Sandra ~ snuggled up to her and would not let go. Each time Rachel would move, Sandra would hold her dress and reach for her hand. Soon all the cousins were part of Rachel's circle. Where Rachel went the children went!!! We will see Sandra and more cousins in Bul Bul this week.

Tomorrow morning we start our work in Bul Bul. We will help finish the "building" of the soccer field to get ready for our camp. We will also be working on a construction project to replace the floor of John and Mary's home that was washed away in a recent flood. I am off to purchase cement in the morning while Chance builds the frame for the floor.

Tonight it is World Cup. We have been invited to watch the game (beginning at 9:30 pm here) with students who are on campus. The kids have made many friends and don't stand out quite so much!

No pictures tonight! Internet is slow and camera battery is low.

We are thinking of you this evening as you are in worship as I write!

Blessing to you all....

Becki and kiddos!

Saturday and Winter in Kenya

2010-07-09T22:25:00.000-07:00

Good Morning... it is Saturday morning in Kenya and we have all been up for HOURS! We are 10 hours ahead of Vancouver. Lois kept us very busy to keep us awake yesterday. But, we were all very tired and fell asleep way tooooooooo early! Today, we have to take a nap so we can stay up later!

It is winter! So cold this morning (at 4 am Newark time) that Allison and Chance built a fire in our "cottage" fireplace. All four of us huddled around the fire to get warm. Sun is out now and the kids have walked to Karen town. They have about a mile walk down Nyong road into the center (where all the roads meet) of Karen. They are joining in the culture and making friends easily. Chance has been instructed how to get a taxi and get them back home if need be. No worries... the road is safe!

Becki

We Arrived!

2010-07-09T07:16:00.001-07:00

Just before take-off from PDX!

We made it after too many hours in airplanes and airports (I think 27 in total) and airplane seats are not comfortable to sleep in! Although, Chance seemed to figure it out okay ;).

NEGST is stunning. The grounds are beautiful and the people are wonderful. Kijji Guest House on the campus is what we will be calling home for the next month. Warm today! Cold last night ~ extra blankets needed and we will be building a fire tonight in our room.

Today (Friday, out first day) we traveled to the Masi Market and bartered for some wonderful things. It was a bit overwhelming, especially after everyone learns your brother is Chance and who your mom is - we clearing are not good at blending in! Rachel learned quickly how to barter and made a few very good deals!!

We then went to the giraffe sanctuary for a visit. We got kisses by many giraffes, they are much like Toby and Chloe kisses - lots of slobber! After giraffes we enjoyed tea at Karen Blixen's House and Tea Garden. It was beautiful, relaxing and place you could sit all day with a book!

Tomorrow is graduation at NEGST. We will be treated to an all day celebration of music, dance, and food in true Kenyan style.

All the best - Allison and team

We Leave Tomorrow!

2010-07-06T19:31:00.000-07:00

We have been busy the last few days packing, repacking and packing more! We think we made it all fit! 12 bags full of soccer balls, clothes, shoes, school supplies and a few pair of clean underwear. As the departure nears, the excitement levels rise. Here are a few shots from deflating soccer balls and packing!

On the plane early tomorrow morning, hope to update from Amsterdam. I am sure the pictures of us 'schlepping' through PDX will be priceless!

Just A Week Away

2010-06-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

Our departure is just a week away! Oh, my there is so much to do before next Wednesday morning!

World Cup hype is everywhere in Africa. We are hearing from our friends in Nairobi how much excitement is in the air.... everyone is playing soccer! I just can't leave without thanking the many of you who have supported this trip. Your gifts of soccer balls and clothes will make a HUGE difference in the lives of the children in Kiberia. We will be purchasing and "building" soccer goals for the Bul Bul mission project that is linked to the Karen Community Church. Where are the Ocean Park Builders and Team DRIP guys when I need them? I am sure glad Jerry Hutchins taught me to use a drill!

A big thank you to Kristi Bowen for her help and to Tursi's Eastside Soccer for their generous donation of soccer jerseys, balls, and pumps! Each child who particpates in "soccer" school will recieve a jersey!

Game on,

Becki

Just a few weeks away. . .

2010-06-22T06:58:00.000-07:00

We are just a few weeks away from the beginning of our trip to Kenya. Our plans are almost finalized ~ we have learned to work on Kenyan time ~ and most projects are in place.
Kenya is not all about the elephants and giraffes although we will have time to visit the baby elephant the Vancouver First youth adopted in 2008. Our baby is almost 3 years old. He plays a good game of soccer and we will get some soccer time with him as well as being able to tuck him in at night! The Giraffe sanctuary is in the community of Karen where we will be staying so we will have some play time with these gentle giants. Kissing giraffes is just like getting puppy kisses!

The real work will be in Kiberia, the largest slum area in Kenya, that is home to 2 million people. Children are everywhere in Kiberia. It is estimated that 5000 are "street orphans" moving from hut to hut, neighbor to neighbor, for food and shelter. Our projects will be working in the Bul Bul area with the Karen Community Church outreach team. World Cup has brought its excitement to Kiberia so our team will be leading a Soccer Camp in Vacation Bible School fashion... music, crafts, games and SOCCER! A huge thanks to all of you who have provided us with soccer balls. We are still collecting!! The children who attend the Bul Bul projects know we are coming and are "building a soccer field". Building means digging rocks out of a small patch of patch of ground with their hands.

Our friends from Boni land, Lucy and Ezekiel will be working us at Bul Bul mission project. Asked what we could bring from the US for their two girls.. the answer SHOES!!! We get to go shoe shopping before we leave!!! The world of Facebook has given us the opportunity to stay connected. We were able to celebrate Kenna's 9th birthday via FB!!

The widows and orphans of St. Martha's ministry also live in Kiberia. Our work will be with the children who are unable to attend school. Without a uniform you cannot attend school even in Kiberia. Some children attend only half day because they share their uniform with other children in their extended family. The widows make beautiful beaded jewelry. We will learn their trade and continue our project from 2008 to help with marketing their crafts.

The adventure continues as we DRIVE from Nairobi to Malindi ~ a small town on the Indian Ocean ~ for our next project. The drive is 222 miles on Kenyan roads and on Kenyan time! What might take a few hours could take all day! We will arrive at Kupenda for the Children for a week or two of work with deaf and handicapped children. Kupenda is the only school in Kenya for deaf students ~ using ASL ~ for teaching. Allison will be teaching and working with these students. Handicapped children in Kenya are often removed/isolated from their villages. These children board at Kuppenda. Rachel and Chance will be working in the classrooms. I am hoping to hold more babies!

Another DRIVE back to Nairobi and we will finish our stay at Amani Ju ~ a shelter for women with AIDS ~ very similiar to a DV shelter in the states. Women from all over Kenya (and Africa) come here for education, skills training, and support. I am hoping we will be able to work side by side with these wonderful women to learn some of their crafts.

Our time in Kenya will be a life-changing trip.. for Rachel, Allison and Chance... my life has already changed! More updates as we get closer to our departure! We will have internet access (no phones) and you can follow our trip with daily updates.

Becki

TICKETS!

2010-03-30T17:21:00.000-07:00

One step closer

flights are confirmed and tickets are purchased!

We depart on July 7th from Portland and arrive in Nairobi on July 8th at 7:25 pm. Very brief layovers in Newark and Amsterdam.

Working on final plans and travel for our stay in Kenya..... playing with elephant orphans and giraffes; a camp out in Masai Mara game park, some golf ..... all for fun!

The real work .... providing an after school (and school for those who don't attend) in Kiberia with St. Martha's orphans, a meeting with officials of Kiberia and Nairobi government, dedication of St Martha's land, worship at KCC (Karen Community Church), medical team work with Bul Bul (an outreach of KCC) in Kiberia, and much more!

Excited to have you share in our mission....

Becki & companions

Dreams do come true . . .

2010-03-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

Dreams do come true....

Two years ago, I had the privilege to travel to Kenya with the Youth Mission Team from Vancouver First United Methodist Church. I fell in love with the people, the land, and the culture. I promised to return one day and build an orphanage and women's center that would serve the Widows and orphans of Kibera.

Eunice, director of St. Martha's Ministry shared the following in an email last fall:

"St Martha's Ministry has acquired 3 hectare piece of land worth ksh.450,000 at the south part of Nyanza near Migori town, one hectare has been donated free, so the Ministry is to buy the two. St Martha's has paid a deposit of ksh.120,000. The money used in paying the deposit was from Becki of 1st United Methodist Church in Washington State through the sale of jewelry. The land was acquired in that area because it's climate and the area is also fertile for agricultural specially a cash crop which is planned for sustainability.

The land has now been purchased.

My family, Allison, Chance and I, along with our family friend, Rachel will travel to Kenya in July to be a part of the celebration and dedication of the land. It is an honor to represent our church as we bless the land and turn the soil to begin the next phase of the project.

You can journey with us by keeping us in your prayers as we finalize plans for our trip.

You can help support our work in Kenya as we provide a day program for orphans who are unable to attend school. Help us to collect the following items:

pencils, stickers, color crayons & colored pencils, coloring books

small toys and games ~ cars, cards, dolls

soccer balls & ball pumps

individually wrapped candy ~ no chocolate

children's t-shirts (used is fine)

children's sandals ~ light weight

With the help of Vancouver First, we were able to provide underwear as part of their school uniforms. We sent 600 pair in January to St Martha's for distribution.

I am excited to return to Kenya! I will see my friends Eunice, Richard, Mama Bear, Lucy and Ezekiel and introduce them to my family. We will worship at Karen Community Church and share in their ministry in Bul Bul. We will spend time with our adopted baby at the Elephant Orphanage.

We are excited that you will be with us on this adventure ~

Becki and her traveling companions.