So it has been a month since I've left Kenya. Technology is a wonderful thing and I have been able to speak with Omari on a bi-weekly basis (it's quick though because I'm paying about $5/min). Facebook updates and messages have kept me in touch with other volunteers and to hear good news from Faraja.
There have been a range of emotions that have come over me throughout the past month. I've been angry, at the Kenyan government and the wastefulness of Americans. I've been upset that I couldn't do more or couldn't be there for some landmarks for Faraja (Kefa's first words, piped water being placed, a hike up to the wind turbines). There is something consistently calling me back as I try to get myself grounded in the states.
To say that words and pictures can't describe the experience I've had is very, very true. Though there are many people that I have spoken with, there is always the afterthought that I missed something; a story, a moment, a person.
Did I accomplish everything that I put into one of my earliest posts? Yes and no. But, I'm not really concerned about it. To have been in Kenya for over a month, travel from the highlands to the coast, in all methods of travel, was beautiful. The conversations, meals, images were all memorable.
Do I think I'll return? I hope so. I would like to go back to Faraja to see the children older. They may not remember me, but I will definitely remember them.
I am thankful for meeting so many wonderful people on my journeys through Kenya and hope to remain in touch as time goes by in the short and long term. Before I close off on my final post I'd like to leave you with two items:
1. The Faraja Kuku Project - We are almost 100% funded. Please consider a donation. (link)
You'll get plenty of detail on what we've been able to accomplish so far.
2. BootsforAfrica.org - On my last weekend in Ngong we ran into a couple who spend their 2009 honeymoon in Kenya and chose to volunteer in 2010. Being from the UK, and being Wigan Athletic supporters (English Premier League), they brought donations of what us Americans would easily call soccer cleats. I'm running a donation drive through the Monroe-Woodbury soccer teams. If you, or someone you know, would like to donate used cleats please contact me for further details.
3. Some favorite photos
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| Alex and Michael |
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| Amy walking to bible school |
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| My "square" |
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| Michael and Morra |
