Livin' the Dream Kenya

Nate's Leaving

2009-07-05T16:50:00.004+02:00

Don't know if you have heard or not but it's time for me to move on. It's a sad time for me but the right time to go. Jeremiah, the new director, is in Maai Mahiu and we have been working to transition him to the new role. I am sad to leave. We have built a family within MM for CTC. I have another week and then leave on the 12th of July back to San Francisco. I wanted to take this time to thank all of you for following the craziness in Kenya and supporting with both words and donations. I have been constantly humbled by all your support and love THANK YOU!!!!

Yesterday, we had a going away party for me in Maai Mahiu. Everyone connected with CTC was invited. Was so amazing to see all the children, women and community come out to say goodbye. It was hard. Hard to say goodbye to so many that I love dearly and have worked with daily to make something so good in Maai Mahiu. I know that Jeremiah is going to do a fabulous job and have so much admiration for him coming back and wanting to be part of his community. For those of you who do not know. Jeremiah was the manager of the big orphanage in Maai Mahiu who Zane , our executive director, first came to know and eventually gave CTC the opportunity to come into Maai Mahiu. We built the polytechnic school at the orphanage. Shortly after that Jeremiah went to the States to get his masters. He returned some weeks ago to run CTC in Maai Mahiu. It's always been the goal of the organization to have Kenyans manage CTC in Kenya. And we are there. I leave with a goal completed and CTC in good hands.

Thank you again for all your support and following this blog. Soon it will be over and my life will move in a different direction.. I hope to see you all very soon and catch up in person!!!!!!

Sarakazi

2009-07-05T16:40:00.003+02:00

I was sent a few pics from Sarakazi from when they came to introduce the children to face painting . Thought you would like to see them. There is one with Ferny who runs the program. Also, with George hanging before his big introduction on the guitar. And finally a drawing of the clown by Beth. What a great artist!!!!! It basically looks just like him.

Medical Team

2009-07-05T13:24:00.003+02:00

We recently held the 4 annual medical mission to Maai Mahiu. The team is lead by Dr. Steve Segebrecht. This year CTC hosted 23 medical professionals (doctors, nurses and students) at the government clinic. The team was made up of specialists that included Ear Nose and Throat, Internal Medicine, Optometrist, Dentist, Pediatrics, OBGYN and a full working pharmacy. The clinic is held for 4 days. It's all free to the community and as you can imagine free medical treatment by western doctors is VERY popular. We have learned our lesson from the past. We cannot leave it open to whomever shows up. So the week before there are two days of registration. Each patient is given a color card for a specific day and medical problem. Red being Monday, Green Tues. etc... The total allowed to be seen for each clinic is decided on by the doctors before they arrive. That way we can manage both the flood of people and make sure the doctors are not overloaded. This year saw all clinics full to capacity. We even were able to register all patients in one day...no need for a second. What was interesting this year is the system is so efficient now that the doctors were actually finished early each day. In the past the doctors worked until the end of the day and still did not see all patients. Now we can add patients for the coming years.

We also invited the VCT (volunteer, counseling and testing) HIV group from Kijabe hospital. This is the same program that CTC will be running out of our office as we have now signed an agreement with the Hospital. Maai Mahiu has some of the highest HIV rates in all Kenya with over 20% but probably closer to 30%. Truck towns breed problems. The govn't places the HIV rate of all Kenya at 6%. We saw a record number this year, 350. There were some tough times with this area this year. We saw two different mothers come in with their 1 year old babies wanting to be tested. And both mother and child were positive. It breaks my heart to see young ones who will have such a hard life ahead. Also, there was a woman who came to be tested who had not left her house in two weeks because her husband had beat her so badly. She wanted the two to be tested as she suspected they had HIV, but when he found out he flipped out on her. Her face was still swollen and eyes black and blue. It was additionally sad because her test came back positive. Now she had to go home to her husband and tell him. Generally, women do not cheat on their husbands in Kenya. The men are the ones who go out and sleep with other women, come home and then give HIV to the wife. These are not the bright side of the week but knowing we did test so many gives these people the chance to get into the program and receive both counseling and ARV drugs for free. So all in all it's a win even with positive results.

Often education is the biggest need within Maai Mahiu. For the second year we had an education area where grad students worked with individuals on family planning, pre natal care and nutrition. So many of the basics in the West that we take for granted simply are not known or followed in Maai Mahiu. Washing hands, baby care, balanced diet, cooking methods etc. The grad students did a fabulous job on educating and also gaining a lot of current information that we can use for the future to design our community health programs

We also saw one baby born during the clinics. It's always amazing how when a baby is born during the week all other clinics seem to stop. No matter how seasoned the medical staff are they always see a new addition to this crazy world as a wonderful reason to stop and watch. The government officials also came to see the clinic in work and were very impressed. It's good to have the big boys on our side. Total the doctors saw 900 patients and dolled out a huge amount of prescription drugs. The pharmacy ran smoother than ever. Not overwhelmed like past years. This year they started a new policy of trying to supply de-worming medicines to entire families. This is a major medical problem for the community. One Masaai man came to get the drugs for his entire family. 24 in total. His 3 wives, himself and 20 children. Yes 20 children. I guess we in the U.S. can never complain about our big families. Can you imagine 20 children?

I wanted to take this moment to thank all the medical professionals for their hard work. I was so impressed by how tirelessly they worked. Humbled really!!!! So thank you again and look forward to all the future medical programs for CTC and Maai Mahiu in the years to come.

Garden at Ngeya UPDATE

2009-07-05T12:59:00.004+02:00

As you all know the garden at Ngeya was built and planted about a month ago. We are now seeing the garden grow and grow. It seems daily the cabbage, onions and kale are growing into fine young members of the community :) Unfortunately, still a month or more away from reaping any produce. All the vegetables will be used to supplement the children's lunch. Plus the clubs at Ngeya are managing the garden to learn hands on about farming.

The Kansas State team is now in Maai Mahiu and they have worked weeding, building sack gardens and with the help of the children, the first organic compost heap. We use a solution called EM. Basically it's a natural bacteria that you add to the layers as the heap is built. By keeping the pile moist the natural bacteria breaks down the waste into compost in a third of the time as normal composting methods. So instead of waiting 3 months it takes apprx a month for use able compost. This bacteria also creates a very healthy, clean compost that will allow for better yields and healthier produce. And it's organic :) The children had such fun with K-State learning about composting and getting hands on experience building their first pile. The children are all part of the environmental club at Ngeya and are also the ones who manage the garden on a daily basis. Rocky divided them into small groups. Each takes care of a row of the garden and a few sack gardens.

We also planted 100 more trees at Ngeya with K-State. This brings our total to 200 trees at the compound. Because of the goats we have to surround the trees with thorny bushes until they grow to a level out of reach of the pesty goats. Like our saying goes "Kill a goat, save a tree". Rocky was talking about fencing off this area and creating a mini park within the school. We will see how that goes, fencing is expensive, but it's good to hear our employees wanting big things for the community. Without the help of K-State and the children at Ngeya we could not have completed the garden, compost pile and trees. So THANK YOU!!!!

Developing World Connections at Good Shepherd

2009-06-13T10:28:00.003+02:00

Last week we saw the team of 9 from our partner DWC take part in a fun filled day of work and play at Good Shepherd. This also happened to be the day when Sarakazi was at both Malaika Kids and GS. The plan was for the team to arrive in the AM and finish two of our mini projects for CTC. First, we needed the girl's dormitory painted. We painted about a year ago and as we all know with this many children it can get dirty fast. Second, we had to finish the kitchen. Needed to put up more iron sheets, install the door and windows and finish off the roof. So the team split up into two groups. They were so FAST. By mid day they had completed both just for the arrival of Sarakazi.

The team then took part in the face painting, skits and games with the children. It's always so fun to watch the volunteers bond with the children. It's some of the most touching and rewarding work we do. Thanks DWC for making the day so great for the kids at Good Shepherd. And always thanks to Sarakazi for bring so much laughter.

Sarakazi Paints Faces for Malaika Kids

2009-06-13T10:07:00.003+02:00

Last week, CTC had the pleasure of hosting Sarakazi. They are now coming the first Wed. of every month. As most of you know, the organization supports performing artists like clowns, jugglers, acrobats etc. Basically, they come to both Malaika Kids and then Good Shepherd to spread the love and smiles. They are truly wonderful to watch. This past week was face painting day. I know these children have never seen face paint let alone had it done to them. It was so much fun to watch the children stand so still as the boys created mini masterpieces on their faces. Then as the other children saw what was painted it generally broke out in huge laughter and smiles. We even brought their mothers from Malaika Moms in to see the children. Again, they thought it was hilarious. Was a good bonding moment. The children sharing a unique experience with each other and their Moms.

We had a guest appearance from a very famous guitar player that day also. George or otherwise known as Batman!! When the guitar was pulled out all he wanted to do was play. So he quickly sat down and started strumming. As he did all the other children started singing a song they know so well to his playing. Then the ladies joined in and so did the rest of us. He was so serious but what do you expect from a young prodigy. He seemed to me a mix between Hendrix, Santana and Batman of course :)

These children love music and we are trying to support that as much as possible. One area someone out there might be interested in is I'd like to get a guitar for the kids. Let me know if you would like to donate for a guitar. I need to find out prices locally. It would be a great addition to the burgeoning band.

I have included a bunch of pictures of the day. And thanks again to Sarakazi for making the day truly fabulous. I know it worked because by the end of the day the children were truly pooped. Exhausted from a long day of fun!!!!!!

Cool Pic

2009-06-06T11:33:00.002+02:00

I thought this was a cool pic...two of the CTC volunteers, Sammy and Tony, in a sea of Ngeya students. Go boys!!!!!

Fuel Effecient Stove Installed

2009-06-06T11:00:00.004+02:00

This past week, the first fuel efficient stove was installed at Ngeya Primary School. The first goal was to build the kitchen which was complete a few weeks ago. The women who prepare the lunch daily for the students used traditional methods of large pots on top of stones. They simply fed wood under the pot to boil the corn and beans. This is extremely inefficient in the amount of wood used. Also, as we all know from camping, the fire gives off a huge amount of smoke that fills the room. The women are constantly wiping their eyes and coughing. In addition, de-forestation is a major Kenyan issue. 70% of the countries forests are gone due to the need for firewood. So reducing the use of wood at Ngeya also impacts the environment. Another bonus is the school currently spends 5000 ksh $65 a week on firewood. For any school it's a huge amount. To this government school that is SEVERLY underfunded, it nearly breaks their back monthly. So reducing the amount of fuel reducing the investment.

Our third team arrived a week ago from Kansas. One of the projects they are part of is the purchase of a very large, 500 ltr., fuel efficient stove. It has been installed and just about to be put into use. We are waiting for concrete to fully dry. I have included a few pics of the old way the women cooked and the new stove. Also, a few pictures of the kids lining up daily for food. When the whole school comes out for lunch it's impressive. Over 1200 kids waiting patiently for food. Right now they serve food outside on the ground. But the next move for us when the stove is working is to purchase large tables so all food can be served through the windows to the students. Need to get the food off the ground.

How does the stove work? First it's built with a layer of brick and covered on the inside with concrete. The outside is covered in a layer tin. This insulates almost all the heat inside the stove. If you walk up to the stove and touch the tin when it's boiling water it's cool to the touch. Wood is fed through the the square opening and the large pot sits perfectly down through the hole. This allows no heat or smoke to escape through the sides of the pot or stove. What cannot be seen from the pictures is out the back of the stove is an opening that has a large tin pipe going out the back wall. This takes a quick L bend towards the roof and the exit of the smoke is many feet above the roof. This allows an escape for the build up of smoke within the stove and eliminates any smoke in the room. No coughing or teary eyes for the cooks. A stove like this this will easily reduce wood use by 60-70%. Because it's so effecient in keeping heat in, it will boil a large pot in a fraction of the time it takes for a normal fire.

Thank you to the Kansas team for working so hard to raise money for Maai Mahiu. This stove will be a huge help to Ngeya and Kenya for that matter. Not only do we affect the local community but we help eleviate a Kenyan problem, de-forestation. Without you CTC could not have completed this project.

First Classroom Complete

2009-05-30T14:43:00.003+02:00

This entry is a continuation of the previous one. Great news!!!! The second team from our partner, Developing World Connections, completed the new classroom that was once the old kitchen. Take a look at the below picture from the previous blog. Smoky and very non hygenic... The picture included is of the pre schoolers who are now using the new classroom classroom. Thanks again DWC and the team of volunteers for the funds and VERY hard work. CTC is so proud of you.

Second Team Arrives!!!!

2009-05-20T13:00:00.003+02:00

Our partner, Developing World Connections, is a volunteer tourism company. We work with DWC by giving their teams access to Maai Mahiu and development projects. The newest team is made up of 9 students from the University of Toronto. Many of them are journalism majors. This team is staying the longest yet for CTC, 5 weeks. This team is staying in Maai Mahiu and have come with the goal of building. All building projects this year are focused on Ngeya Primary which is the government school in MM that is severely under funded. With 2000 students and an average of 75-100 students per class you can imagine the chaos. The first team, Bodwell High School, finished a new kitchen as you have seen from previous blogs. Now the next goal is to turn the old kitchen, first picture, into what it was originally meant for, a classroom. The team is on their 3rd day of work today, Wednesday. This post will have many updates as they are here for many weeks and working on 3 distinct projects.

First, they will complete this classroom with a new concrete floor, windows, doors and blackboards. From there they'll move to the adjacent classroom and put in windows, doors and fix parts of the existing floor. Finally, they move across the school compound to finish a 3rd classroom with a concrete floor, dirt currently, windows, doors etc. In the end, they will have made 3 classrooms in good working order.

To put in a floor in Maai Mahiu is hard labour to say the least. I feel sometimes it looks more like a chain gang. There are no machines or electricity. So all the large rocks have to be pounded down to make a flat floor. All 40 bags of concrete have to be manually mixed, carried and poured. Walls have to be concrete spackeled by hand. The first two days have been A LOT of work for the team but they have stepped up. Rocky is really proud. I have included a few pics of these days and will update as things get completed. The kids at Ngeya, who are in school right now, find the visitors truly mesmorizing. It's hard for the DWC group to stay focused sometimes as the kids are hard to resist. But DWC has done a fabulous job staying on course.

Thanks to DWC and this team, there will be 3 beautiful classrooms for the students at Ngeya Primary!!!!!

Kitchen at Ngeya Primary Update

2009-05-20T12:48:00.004+02:00

I promised an update once the kitchen at Ngeya was complete. Happy to say it is!!!! I have included a few pics of the before and after. The first picture was of the old kitchen that is supposed to be a classroom. Second, is the final outside view. Third, is the inside of the completed kitchen. Last, is the kitchen mid work. This project at Ngeya Primary School was funded by Bodwell High School in Vancouver who also was our first team of 2009. The kitchen will now feed all 2000 students out of a clean, proper kitchen. As always CTC is looking for additional funds for fuel efficient stoves and will eventually need tables and the like, so if anyone is interested you know where to find me.

Thanks again Bodwell for working so hard. Rocky and Mwaniki keep using the work of your team as a benchmark for each team this summer. So you really impressed us and knowing Rocky and how hard he works, you impressed Mr. Work. Thank you again from CTC and Ngeya, we could not have done it without you.

The bath is complete :-)

2009-04-26T16:22:00.003+02:00

I have been working for some weeks now on a big bath tub for my backyard. Back in SF, we have a amazing hot tub in the back yard. Wow..... so spoiled. I used go home after a long days work and sit outside with a cigar enjoying the stars. It's actually one of my favorite memories with my Dad. We would sit outside for what seems like hours smoking cigars and well if you know my Dad listening to him and his stories. I figured why not make a poor man's hot tub. So I had Alex and his workers, build a BIG tub. It's 6'x4'x4'. Definitely bigger than the tub at home. As all projects seem to get more complicated as they proceed this was no different. The tub was easy to build but filling it was another issue. I had to install an new hot water heater. Now this sounds like a cost and it was, but I also realized the first time I tried to fill the tub that I could not see my hand just a few inches below the water line. Disgusting!!!!! The old heater was so rusted through that it simply poured out red water. I was wondering since I arrived in Kenya, why I always seemed to dirty. I'd take a shower and the water was brown at my feet with my funk. But now I realize I was actually taking a shower of rust. I don't know if this has any benefit to my skin but I am working to find that out.

I took my first bath the other night. FABULOUS!!!! Something about sitting under the African stars with my hookah pipe next to me was truly amazing. Only issue I had is that Julius, the Masai guard who watches my home every night, thought this was a great opportunity to chat. So here I am sitting in my tub, trying to relax and take in all that is a beautiful night, and Julius is sitting on the edge looking down at my naked ass and asking question after question. I like my ass and all but it did make a bit uncomfortable. Now that I think about it, maybe it's just the same as home. I had my Dad at home , now I have a Masai. So I guess who can really complain, I never knew my Dad would come back as an African :-)

Day of play for the Bodwell students

2009-04-26T16:03:00.003+02:00

This past Friday the Bodwell students spent a half day with the Malaika kids and half with the kids at Good Shepherd children's home. It was truly a magical day. At the Malaika kids the students played the various educational games and bonded through play. The Malaika kids love having people around and bond so easily to strangers. Bodwell really adapted well in the situation, making connections so easily. We also had SEP that day working with some of the children, so Bodwell had a chance to watch very experienced special needs teachers work individually with the kids.

The second part of the day was at Good Shepherd. As you have seen in the previous posts, these kids also LOVE having people visit. We spent some time playing soccer of which turned into more of an adult game than for the kids. But they don't care, they just run around following the ball and giggling. Bodwell brought a bunch of kites of which the children absolutely loved. At first there was no wind so the kids would get the kite up by running as fast as they could through an open field. It was hilarious to watch, a group of children sprinting to keep a little kite up. Then the wind picked up and it really became an enjoyment for them. Watching their kites bounce around in the air. We also brought tons of art material and the two groups spent a long hour painting and drawing. Lots of Canadian flags of which I had to bite my tongue being the proud American. But hey who cares right? The kids loved it. They also were given a tour by Jane and the kids of their dormitories. Bodwell is also a live-in school and I think the conditions truly blew them away. So much we take for granted being priviledged and when you see conditions so polar to your experience, well it's heart breaking. But it's good for everyone to see. A great perspective making each of us appreciate what we do have and enabling us to help further.

What a fun day to watch. Most of the day I spent running kids back and forth in the car from the two facilities but that was a small price to pay for each group to have a once in a life time experience. Bodwell surely has made a mark on Maai Mahiu and I am humbled to have been part it.

Garden at Ngeya

2009-04-26T15:49:00.004+02:00

The second project we have been working in tandem with the kitchen is a garden at Ngeya. It's somewhat a copy of our previous Sho Sho Shamba with many improvements. If we had known all we do now about gardening and the proper way to set up a shamba we would done various things differently. The goal of the garden is really two fold. First, we have the opportunity to add nutrients to the lunches at Ngeya. Currently, the 2000 kids get the same meal everyday. Maize and beans or called Gutheri in Kenya. It's very plain and misses many important vitamins.

The students from Bodwell have been working everyday with 10 local students. We are bringing the two countries together. So we had 20 plus hands to help with both the kitchen and garden for three days. We split the team into two groups of 10 and had them alternate between the two projects. First, we built raised beds and then laid out all the drip irrigation system. We have 13 raised beds with 3 rows each. All fed by a 5000 ltr. tank. In addition, CTC has always tried to increase the amount of trees in Maai Mahiu. De forestation is a MAJOR problem. And this garden and the Ngeya facility is a great opportunity to keep this tradition going. We purchased 100 indigenous trees. The environment club at Ngeya, Bodwell students and local students all pitched in to plant 40 trees on the boarder of the garden. Also, we planted another 60 behind one of the building, fencing it off to ensure no damage by the goats. A local saying "Kill a goat, save a tree". We are not into killing goats so fencing is our solution. These trees will be taken care of by the environment club at Ngeya, teaching them more about the importance of tree planting and the environment

Again, the students worked their butts off to make the garden ready for our first crop. Included are some pics of process. I am very excited to bring you an update in the near future of the garden FULL of vegetable. Thanks again Bodwell, you ROCK!!!!

Visitors are here!!!

2009-04-26T12:15:00.006+02:00

and experiencing the town on a daily basis they have also been doing some fabulous work. This year we are focusing all building projects at Primary School. It's a government run school of 2000 children. Each class has 75-100 per class room. Yeah, hard to believe and seeing it is even more unbelievable. CTC has it's first team who have come to MaaiMahiu for a week and a half to work and offer a lot of help to our programs. Bodwell High School from Vancouver, 10 students and 4 leaders, arrived last week. Besides being shown Maai MahiuNgeyachidrenCTC has always helped the poorest of the community, those who have everything weighted against them. The students at Ngeya are these exact individuals as it's the free schooling for those in the community with no other options for education. And to say the govn't does not adequately funded the school is a huge understatement. Over the past few months Rocky and I have sat with the head mistress at the school and looked at the biggest infrastructure needs and identified a long list. The first objective is to help the school better it's current kitchen/cooking situation. Currently, the cooks make all food in an old classroom with dirt floors, no tables and the large pots are put on stones. The cooks simply keep pushing wood under the pots to keep them going. It's not sanitary and also makes the school pay nearly 5000ksh a week, $70. This is a huge cost for a school with no money figuring the govn't pays for none of this. It all has to be donated by the already struggling families.

Bodwell has brought a good sum to finish the kitchen. The school had build four walls, no roof or any details of the kitchen, as they ran out of money. So we had the roof put on to prepare the kitchen for the students to start working. While they have been here we spent 3 days working to lay the concrete floor, finishing the walls with concrete and installing the door and windows. I have included a few pictures of the process. By the time the team comes back from it's trip to the Masai Mara this week the kitchen will be complete. We still need to purchase fuel efficient stoves (no funds found yet) to help with the high costs of wood and also try to help reduce the already de forestation that is currently happening in the Rift Valley.

Thank you Bodwell for tirelessly working and putting your hearts and bodies into the project. The kids at Ngeya will truly appreciate the kindness and as always CTC would not be able to complete these types of projects without your assistance. THANK YOU !!!!

Little Lauren in Kenya!!!

2009-04-18T13:06:00.004+02:00

Both the CTC children and I had a wonderful visit from a close friend of mine from San Francisco. Lauren came for a 10 day visit to experience Kenya and Maai Mahiu. We spent two days in MM. Because she was here for a short visit we really had to pack in as much as possible without wearing her out. 20ish hours of flying is never easy, nor is the jetlag. She brought with her two suitcases, and one was fully stocked with items for the children. 50lbs of fun....Basically, she went on a shopping spree before leaving. She brought play dough, diapers, dolls, toy cars, a parachute, crayons, markers, bubbles and the list goes on. It really was a toy store in a suitcase. I have included a few pictures with the girls and their new babies, the kids playing with the toy cars and a few with Lauren and the kids at Malaika and Good Shepherd. It was amazing to see the reaction in the girls when the dolls were pulled out. I guess all children love gifts of toys but they really seemed to fall in love with the little babies. Carrying them around, kissing them, coddling, smiling and talking softly to the dolls. None of these girls have ever had anything close to a real looking baby. AMAZING! We handed out diapers to all the families who have children that we normally change every day. Normally, the mothers take sheets and wrap them around the children and put a standard plastic shopping bag over and wrap that around to seal it. As you can imagine it does not seal that well and the sheets are not good atm opping up the mess. But the diapers that Lauren brought, good ole American quality, will surely due the trick. The Mothers were very thankful and have mentioned to me about the "blonde" girl to thank her for them again. So Lauren THANK YOU!!!!

We then went to Good Shepherd for the always overwhelming welcome as the children rush out to say hello. Beating on the car for you to open then mobbing once you set a foot on the ground. They really took to Lauren. By the end of our time at GS, they were asking me to leave her behind. They wanted her to sleep over. Even asking for us to sing a song and if we could not then I would have to leave her. I was tempted leaving her but figured Lauren might have some issues :) Nah just kidding she was always coming with me. They showed us the new seedling garden recently planted and were so proud to explain how each child has a certain part and manages that part. And they built each one in a shape: triangle, square, circle. So creative. Oh yes, I then proceeded to kick Lauren in the face with the foot of one of the boys as I twirled him around. Smearing mud on her clean face. Damn, the bull in the China shop was in full affect that day. Also, whacked her , by accident, two times as I tried to describe something, using way to much arm action. Ok all you who know me stop laughing right now. Sorry again Lauren, I try to not hurt people when they are around but most people know me on this blog and know.... well it does not always work that way. And I am the best at hurting myself :)

Anyways, I really wanted to take a moment and thank you Lauren for coming. Thank you for taking the time to fly all the way over here and bring such wonderful gifts for the children. They will never forget you and have asked about you often. It's people like you that make CTC possible. So come back soon, OK?

2009-04-14T14:28:00.002+02:00

On the 17th we had the pleasure of hosting Sarakazi again. You may have seen some blogs previously about recent visits. They are a Danish funded NGO who supports the performing arts and already works on a weekly basis in various hospitals in Nairobi with children who are sick. They have partnered with CTC to come down to Maai Mahiu from Nairobi on a monthly basis and entertain both the kids at Good Shepherd and Malaika Kids. This past visit was all about painting. The brought all the needed paints, paper, brushes etc. and let the kids go to work. The first was time at Malaika
Kids. The bottom two photos show Dan doing a very impressive painting of which he is so proud. It hangs in his room at home. And the other is of a group of children making a good ole mess. Then we went to Good Shepherd and as you can see from the photos, the boys performed various skits and puppetry of which the kids about fell over laughing. It's great to see the children at first wondering who are these new people to adoring them towards the end. Then the kids also got paint and play games for a few hours. I was really impressed with some of the paintings. Little budding artists. It's a wonderful
escape for them. All in all it was a great day of bonding and play. And of course I enjoyed it as much if not more than the children. Guess if you can't be a child at heart why be an adult at all? Thanks Sarakazi to another amazing day!!!!!!

Boys get the goods!!!!!

2009-04-14T14:04:00.002+02:00

This past week we had a job to finish and thanks to a caring heart back in California it's done. As you might have read from the previous blog, the boys were left out at Good Shepherd. We took 6 mattresses to the girls but did not have enough money for the boys. The boy's beds were just as soiled and nasty. The boys were happy for the girls but definitely bummed. I heard recently that a good friend from St. Tim's days, Sharon Dekker-Pisani, wanted to contribute to our work here. She had come to my Mom asking how she could help. This allowed me to go in search of mattresses in Maai Mahiu immediately. I guess you ask and it will be provided. I have included some pics of us in search of the mattresses and delivery to Good Shepherd. Yes, that is me on the top bunk. After the delivery, I thought, maybe I could sleep here now? But I think the boys would be a little cramped from my long, lanky self.

When we showed up, the boys kept saying "Bless you Nathan". But really this blessing goes out to Sharon. I wanted to take a moment and thank you. It has always been contributions from the individual who have made CTC work in Maai Mahiu possible. So thank you, Sharon, from me and especially the boys of Good Shepherd.

New Mattresses for Girls at Good Shepherd

2009-03-26T13:19:00.003+02:00

Thanks for my wonderful Auntie Marianne, the girls at Good Shepherd have new beds. Six spanking new mattresses (still in the plastic). I arrived with Rocky to the normal, overwhelming charge of 23 kids yelling my nick name Muguruki "Mad Man". So fitting huh? Not to diverge. But in Kikuyu that is not a good word. When I say my nickname, which was given to me by the way, the reaction is always the same. First, people have a horrified look on their face as you would never call someone Muguruki as it means the man who is passed out on the street, literally “mad” out of his head. But I love that nickname. I am the only one called that in probably all of Kenya :)

So let’s get back to the fun stuff. When Rocky and I arrived, after the bombardment of kids saying hello, we opened the back door to the truck. The kids went nuts. Jumping around, high fives, huge smiles. They kept saying God Bless. I am sorry Auntie you could not be here in person to see it. As those blessings are for you. I included a few pics of the children with the beds. You can see the happiness. Always amazes me still how such simple improvements can make such an impact on these children. When we put the mattresses in their place the girls immediately jumped to their normal sleeping area. You can see in this pic how joyful the girls are and after I left they just stayed. Middle of the day, no reason to ever be in bed, after at least a half hour, when Rocky and I left, they were in the beds. Giggling, singing and being happy.

I returned a few days later to the same beds in the same positions. The room just looked cleaner, more homely and surely had to be way more comfortable for the girls. Next is the boys. They have the same old dirty mattresses and were pretty bummed they weren’t getting new beds when we came. All comes down to getting the money but that will come in time. For now the girls have a wonderfully clean, soft bed to sleep on so thanks again Auntie!!!!!! Love you.

2009-03-26T13:15:00.000+02:00

A Call For Your Help!!!!

2009-02-16T13:32:00.007+02:00

Hello Everyone! I need to chat with you about a few things. This is a call for assistance. The orphans at Good Shepherd desperately needed a new kitchen. I have a included a picture of what the previous kitchen looked like. I know beyond belief. So Rocky and I scrounged together enough timbers and iron sheets (some re-used) to start a new kitchen. Nothing fancy, still a dirt floor and well not even all the walls on yet but it's WAY better than what they have. I have included a picture of what Rocky and I completed this weekend. The issue is we need a few more things to complete. All very little costs but CTC does not have the money. We are so over stretched at this point.

So here is what we need for the kitchen. 9 iron sheets for the walls and roof at 800 ksh each so a total of $96. And we need to build them a kitchen table for inside so there is a place to put the basics. That will be 4000 ksh so $53. I included a picture of what the current food prep table looks like. Not pretty.

And the third huge issue are the mattresses. I have included a picture of what the children are currently sleeping on. Yeah I know..not right. We need 6 mattresses at 1500 ksh or $20 each. A total of $120 for all six. There are also some odds and ends like new pots for the fuel efficient stove and some cooking utensils. But to be really honest I want to focus. We need to first three things ASAP.

I know life is hard now for all of you. This whole economic meltdown is horrible. And my call for help is not to make you feel bad if you can't be part of this project. I completely understand. CTC has always been dependant on individuals. We have no grants or institutional financing. So when it gets hard for you it's the same for us. If anyone is interested please send me an email. CTC and I would truly appreciate any support. Thank you!!!!!

Paint, Our Best Friend

2009-02-16T13:20:00.002+02:00

Last week we finished a little upgrade. As you have seen from previous blogs recently, many of our rooms have been repainted and added a clear section to the roof. Basically, we are trying to clean up the rooms, make them lighter and brighter for the children and mothers. The last room to be finished was the Malaika Moms. They desperately needed some fresh paint and the room was really dark. It's in the back of the facility and get little sun from the sides. So we asked the ladies if they wanted us to paint the room for them and give them a day off or do it themselves. This does not surprise me anymore, they wanted to paint. So Rocky and I gave them the paint and supplies and let them go to work. You can see by the pictures the mothers worked all day to put the finishing touches on a sky blue room. And of course, in typical CTC fashion, had fun putting hand prints all over the room. I included a picture of what the room looked like before. WHAT A DIFFERENCE!!!!

A few days before Rocky and I had put a clear sheet of siding on the roof so that now the ladies have a sun roof. One of the pictures shows it really well as the light is reflecting off the wall. It also helps CTC as now there are no lights needed and reduces our electricity bill. Which in Kenya is no joke. Power is expensive here. It's amazing to see how much happier the women feel and they keep commenting on how they feel better in the room now. A friend here saw the pictures of the before and after and asked me "Ah you moved them to a bigger room?" Nope just a bit of paint and a sunroof!!!!!!

Pigs or Muslims?

2009-02-05T12:12:00.002+02:00

I know.... what an odd title for a blog. And I swear this one is light. Need a light note to cancel out the previously heavy pontification :)

So I was told the other day that the Muslim children who are coming to Good Shepherd Orphanage that we support are no longer coming for school at the facility. Rocky said they had found out about our "plans" of raising pigs as a way to help them sustain themselves and the parents freaked, immediately pulling out the children. The little cultural aspects you learn through making mistakes. Well, what is odd is we never really were planning on moving forward with pigs. And Rocky had taken it on himself to do the numbers of what it would cost to set it up and had mentioned it to Jane who takes care of the kids. (This is a good thing that Rocky takes it on himself to run with projects but this situation got out of control) We were in a pickle. We would NEVER jeopardize any children for the sake of pigs or anything else for that matter. So now we are patching the wounds. All children and families have been told there will be no swine and they are always welcome. PLEASE COME BACK!!!

It's such an interesting look into cultural awareness. Most of the children, say 90%, at the home are Christian. But we never thought of what a pig project would mean to the small group of Muslim children. I wonder if this is not a reflection of how we as people often think. We make decisions without looking at how they will influence the minority and ow we may ostracize a group when there is no need to make that division. I feel really bad for not seeing this coming and making those children not feel welcome. We are learning for sure and in the end it falls on my shoulders. I need to be more aware! But then isn't that also the tag line for CTC, BECOME AWARE ! Guess I am learning also to open my mind constantly. To look at situations from all angles. Even if for a short time it seemed we chose pigs over Muslims :)

Thugs in blue!!!

2009-02-05T11:40:00.002+02:00

Most of my blogs are light and energetic about Kenya and our programs here. But this one boarders on rage and touches on a much deeper problem within the country that foreigners and Kenyans deal with on a a daily basis. WELCOME TO KENYA!!!

On Saturday night around 10pm, I was going to meet friends in Nairobi. On my way I stopped at a store to pick up a few things. Coming out of the store was a round about, maybe 50 feet or so. Standing in front of my path was a police officer. Normally, I don't stop for police at night here. There are too many cases of officers not being what they seem and either being totally corrupt or someone pretending to be a cop. Bad news!!! But he was standing in the middle of the road and told me to pull over. Another thing in Kenya is very few cops have cars. They simply stand on the side of the road or at check points and flag people down. So I stopped and he came the window asking for my driver license. No problem, I produced it and he told me he'd stopped me for no seat belt. Now yes he was completely accurate. It's one of my pet peeves to always wear one. I just had not put it on yet and well......ok he got me no problem.

But this is where it gets VERY tricky. They don't write tickets here. They say they are going to arrest you. they want you to take them to the police station to deal with the ticket. In Kenya a no seat belt is a MINOR offense of maybe $4-5 penalty. I now know after this situation that it's illegal for police to get in your car. But he did it anyways. And so did another cop in the back seat. He told me to drive and almost immediately was asking how we were going to deal with this. Kept telling me to pull over on our way and "work it out" . I said no let's drive to the police station and they told me, let's just deal with it, only a SMALL thing. Which means, pay me money and you can get off. I know from friends that this generally costs about 1000 ksh so about $13 and it's all over, no police station. So I pulled out my wallet when stopped and produced 1000 shillings. But here's where it gets even more sticky. I had just gone to the ATM and had 5000 shilling $65 in my wallet of which he immediately saw. The police in the back told me now I was being booked for corruption and bribery since I gave them 1000 shillings even though they had brided me for it. Big fine he said. Basically, now the threats came because they wanted all the money. This went on for awhile and finally after a 1000 shilling note after another I was left with no money in my pocket. They had gutted me of everything. There was even a point when they said I had more after giving them 5000 and I had to have an ATM card. Even telling them I worked to help Kenyans they simply did not care.

They got out of the car and the one police actually asked me if we sponsored any people outside Maai Mahiu and if CTC could help his family. So they wanted all my money, which they got, and now wanted CTC assistance. Are you F... kidding me? I was so nice during this process but that was the instance where I nearly punched the guy in the face. I simply said no and kindly drove on.

purposely avoid the government officials in town because if you let them in the ask for money. They openly ask, Oh so you are developing a community center to help my So what do you do in that situation? See this is not a rare instance in Kenya. This happens ALL the time. I was just unlucky this time. Kenyans have to deal with corrupt cops daily. They have to deal with them even going as far as raping their wives, beating husbands and well you get the picture. And yes that happens, no need to keep blinders on....it's tough here. Further, this is also how the entire government acts. CTC in Maai Mahiu purposely avoids the government officials. They will ask ...So you are building a community center to help my constituents.... what is in it for me? There is no shame to corruption here. They will ask and even put it in writing. It's sad. I felt violated for sure and had a hard time not opening my rage on someone. But then I had to think. I'm an outsider and these acts of misuse and abuse of power are what's ruining this country. My run in with the police was a minor situation, though it felt absolutely horrible. I feel for Kenyans who are abused daily and live for another day. Truly admirable!!!!!!

A Day of Play!!!!

2009-01-23T12:01:00.004+02:00

This past Saturday we saw another visit by Rift Valley Academy to CTC. Last time we spent a day at Good Shepherd finishing the garden and the boys dormitory. This Sat., 7 high schoolers came down the hill to spend the morning with the Malaika Kids. This was special for both sides as normally the children at our facility don't come in on Saturday. You could see that they were a bit surprised to be there are a Sat. but still VERY excited. The RVA kids don't get that many chances, if at all, to interact with disabled children. It's always interesting to watch new people come to the facility. Generally, there's some time where they don't feel comfortable. There is something about being with adults/children with disability that really both pulls at the heart strings and also our own very personal comfort level.

It doesn't take long though to cross that barrier. Once the RVA kids realized that the children are just like all other children, full of joy, excitement and love......the wall came down. We did an introduction for the first part where the children sang the normal morning songs, recited a few bible verses and hellos. After a quick tour of the facility with an overview of who's CTC and why we work in Maai Mahiu, I divided the RVA kids into 2 groups. One spent time with the children who have cerebral palsy. The second was put into the play room with rest of the Malaika kids. Both rooms were play day really but in very different forms. It always touches my heart how attached people are to Dan, Henry, Francis (the boys with cerebral palsy). For most this is the first time they have ever had very close contact with children who are VERY restricted in all ways. The RVA kids jumped right in playing with the boys, opening hands to work on dexterity, blowing up balloons, playing games to entertain.....the kids loved it!!!!

In the other room what started out as managed areas for games soon turned into a free for all. Have to love how planning seems to disintegrate with children. Some of the RVA kids are great at making balloon animals. Can you imagine? Our children have NEVER seen anything like a dog made out of a balloon. It soon turned into a volleyball competition to see who could keep the balloon in the air longest. Both groups, Malaika Kids and RVA, bonded in these moments of play. Nothing really to think about but letting the child run free. Pretty amazing to see :)

Oh!!!!! And George. RVA brought nail polish for the girls. Wonderful I said. But it didn't take long for the boys to notice the fun the girls were having. So George sat down and needed his nails painted. He was so proud of having Corvette red nails. And once those were done he started taking off his socks to get his toes painted. And then that started a trend. Mike was soon to follow. You can see in the picture with balloons and the children, George's fingers painted. Who says nail polish is just for girls?

I've included a few pictures of the day. As you can see the Malaika Kids really appreciated their new friends. Thank you Rift Valley Academy for picking up these children and running with them.

Making Music

2009-01-09T13:49:00.003+02:00

A funny thing happened the other day. A totally spontaneous musical ensemble. Could be considered a band by some standards. OK, let me explain. The wall toys for the Malaika kids have been used daily as the kids came back to school on Monday. You should have seen the faces when they came into the room for the first time. Excitement is an understatement. I was a bit worried as I thought they might rip them off the wall with pure OVER joy. But that didn't happen, SEP and the parents made very industrial toys. The kids gravitated, in the first week, to the noise making walls. Well, on Thurs. I heard a huge commotion as Rocky and I were trying to hold a very serious meeting (at least Rocky and I thought so) with the Malaika Moms. But no worries this is so normal. Really, it just sounded like all the kids at once going to town making as much noise as possible. Who can be irritated with that, right? So the adult meeting went on and so did the children's meeting/racket. But then I noticed about a half hour later that it sounded more like a beat. I had a break in the meeting so went to take a look. And what do I see? 5 kids have created a make shift band. No teacher was guiding them, they were left alone to play. And one child was creating a beat with a roller and wheels. The other four were either spinning shakers or squeezing squeakers. It was an actual beat. I could not believe it. Many people have said to me that disabled children really gravitate towards music. And I have seen that with our morning songs but this was truly impressive. They were looking to each other to hold the beat. Now it was no Beatles, Marley or the Stones but it's got me thinking. What can we do with this? Where can this go? I have included a few pics of the children making "glorious music". Oh by the way I should probably reference Iron Maiden as that was probably the decibel level. No soft elevator music for these children.

Also, I included a few pics of the children playing with some of the toys made by SEP and the parents of the children. One is of a matching game, the second is a ring throwing game and the last is of a memory game where you put items under the cups and children have to guess where could matching part be....always loved these game. Wait what do I mean? I played each of these with the children and my story is I beat them in every game. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. I am the king of Malaika games.........I so wish that was true :)

THANK YOU !!!

2008-12-31T11:15:00.002+02:00

Hello my friends!!!!! I wanted to make sure to send you a note before the year ends. We have gone through a lot during this past year. As 2008 is closing, I need to thank you.

Personally, so many of you have been there for me both with my own crazy life and also this wild ride called Comfort the Children. I don't think I can really write how deeply I love you and how much you mean to me. But I can try. What I feel is without you none of this is possible. I would not be the person I am today nor be able to take on these challenges if I did not have such an amazing support structure. I am a blessed, I know this. We all have hard times in our lives but with you I know I can accomplish anything. So here's to you, why the hell you even want to be my support structure, now that is the crazy part :) I try to run from myself at times so knowing you stick around is mad. Thanks for being those endless rocks in my life.

I also want to specially thank all those who over the past year have supported CTC and the projects in Kenya. Your donations and positive words of support are what have always kept us going. I am so happy to know we have added so many new CTC members to the crew and your kindness through making donations makes me personally proud to call you a friend. You never have to make any effort and that you do says so much about your love for others.

So Happy New Year my friends. I wish you were all here with me so we could throw a huge party and ring in the new year together. I will cheers you tonight and look forward to seeing you soon.

Love you!!!!!!!

New Classrooms Completed

2008-12-31T09:50:00.003+02:00

We are expanding!!!! Well, yes, sort of growing but really just improving the current classrooms for the disabled children. Basically, we are taking one of the larger rooms we currently use as a store room and turning that into a classroom. And one of the dukas (shops) next to our current office vacated recently so we took over that and converted a huge room to a classroom. The previous two classrooms were great but small. The children were cramped. Now they can spread their wings and create more havoc. CTC has not given up the smaller classrooms though. What we have done is convert one into Mama Peter's (the malaika kids cook) kitchen. Currently, she is cooking in a side little alcove on the ground. No doors and not sanitary enough for the children. We were originally limited on space so we made it work but now even Mama is moving up :) The other old classroom has been turned into our new store room.

As many of you know my Bro, Luke, is in Kenya visiting and has been a rock star. He's been helping with any task put in front of him. The big challenge for the two of us was to get the new classrooms painted and ready for the children who return on Jan. 5th. It took a few days to get it complete but with Luke's great help painting we were able to complete a few days ago. The large wall hangings you see in the pics are the same as I wrote in a recent blog. They were donated by SEP (Special Education Professionals) and made by the fathers and mothers of the children. They look fabulous now with newly painted walls. I'll be updating with pics soon of the children using the new classrooms.

Personally, completing jobs and having a visual outcome to look at really does make work here all that much more enjoyable. Every day for me seems to be another adventure and rewarding experience. To be able to work along side my brother was a blessing. And to know our work has really nothing to do with us, nor benefit us personally in any way is .........Well you know at XMAS when you get a gift it feels one way. Wonderful, sure. But to give a gift. Now that is something COMPLETELY different. To watch a loved one open a little treasure from you and see the reaction is something special There is a deep, pure loving feeling that comes from giving. And I know Luke and I surely felt this during our painting expedition. I just hope the children will enjoy the rooms as much as Luke and I did to prepare them.

Until next post............

Drip Feed Pilot Program

2008-12-16T12:17:00.003+02:00

We are off to the races!!!! After our very successful community garden in town of which you have all seen pics, the next challenge....How do we get drip feed technology into the hands of the community? Rocky and I have been working to develop a plan to roll out small, individual drip feed systems that are cheap and easy to install. We have developed a 5 row, each 17 feet long with a 5 gallon bucket to supply the water. Most of this system is sources locally in Maai Mahiu which also supports us supporting local community. We had two well wishers out of the States (you know who you are and THANK YOU) who were very excited about this program and came forward a month ago to fund the initial 10 systems. Each system costs $20 and that includes employing a local young man, John, to set the system up with the family. So we not only give access to new technology for a family but also employ young, hard working individuals from MM. One of the big issues with the town is lack of employment.

judge the progress and if it works then move forward with another 5. My hope is we have these systems installed in 50, 100....who knows maybe hundreds of families in Maai Mahiu. We will also install sack gardens eventually which work out to be $3 a garden completely installed. An very important part of this project was total family commitment. The family has to be present for the installation and help through the entire process. If they don't show up we don't install. There needs to be ownership and through the installation John can education the family on how and why the system works.

We have currently installed 3 systems with the other two being done this week. The first was to one of the HIV patients we help support with food. He has not been able to work so they are very desperate. I included a picture of a man with his children working. Truly amazing to see a person work even though he's so sick. The second two families are those of grandmothers (ShoShos) from our community garden project. They believe in our systems and constantly talk about how well the garden is progressing. For us this is great press within the community. The hope is those families surrounding the ones already with a drip system will talk and ask for the system also. I also included a photo of John our project manager. He had a long days work in the hot sun taking a well deserved rest. In the future it would be nice to know we can employ him at least part time installing systems. Who knows maybe we can turn this into a multiple employee business.....

I'll be updating pictures in the next month or two and show progress on the systems. Thank you again to the donors who have funded this project. CTC is low on funds currently so those who decide they want to adopt a program really help take off stresses. Also, many new ideas are hard to get on the budget so working outside the box is pretty quick and successful.....

What would we do without partners?

2008-12-15T15:41:00.004+02:00

What would we do without partners? Special Education Professionals (SEP) came to Maai Mahiu last week for one of their amazing toy making workshops. They hold these all over Nairobi building wall hanging, interactive toys for many facilities that take care of disabled children. Karolien, Edmond (physical therapist) and her two carpenters came with all supplies for a full day of work. They were very clear with us that they will bring the materials and expertise but we needed to supply mothers, fathers, brothers etc. who would work to make the toys. Not only did every mother participate, but so did various men from the families. We invited many but never knew who would show up. In fact, there were at times to many chefs in the toy kitchen but then we are not ever going to complain with extra help. It just goes to show the constant support shown by the community of Maai Mahiu.

The first picture is of one carpenter building feeding chairs for Danson and Francis. Both of these boys have cerebral palsy and cannot do much without the constant aid of those that look after them.. How their mothers do it on a daily basis and for an entire life is truly beyond dedication....it's sainthood really. The new chairs were built for the boys at their homes. Currently, they both have chairs at our facility just like the ones being built that were measured exactly for them. The issue is when they went home after our daycare and on the weekends there was no chair to aid. Back to laying on their backs. So SEP graciously volunteered to have home units made. I'll update with some pictures in the near future of the boys at home in the chairs. The second picture is of Francis who is in the standing aid supplied by SEP. This came last time they visited and allows these boys to look upright and work on standing muscles that have atrophied from years of inactivity. All donated by SEP!!!

The third picture is of Karolien who runs SEP and John our resident artist. One comment she made was that normally things like sewing and artistic touches are not around during a workshop but since we have all the ladies sewing just next store and John who is a great painter, it allowed for an easy day without interruption. John is putting the face on a lady who Karolien has made hair by which the children will play, putting clips and braiding to practice hand eye coordination. The fourth picture is of the men painting and working on a big domino set used by the children to practice matching and numbers. Damn I love dominos!!!!! These children have no clue what they are in for, domination :) I swear these toys are going to be used by me more than any little one. Ah well there have to upsides to it all, right?

The last picture is of my "little" (he'll hate that) bro, Luke. He joining in on the normal morning songs that start the day for the children. I was so impressed by him. He arrived from San Francisco the night before and by the time we got home and in bed it was 1AM but he was up at 7 and jumped right in. Talking about thrown into the fire head first. But he thrived. And that is so impressive. It takes people some time to feel comfortable especially around the children with disability. I think for people these children can show the weakness in human beings. And so with that we feel very insecure and awkward. But Luke did not, he bonded very quickly with them and they loved him for it. What we all realize working with these little ones is they are the same as any other child. They just have a bit more to struggle with in life. But that does not damper their spirit in any way. They are truly Malaikas .......Angels!!!!

We are retrofitting two new classrooms for the children before New Years that will be much bigger and better laid out. New paint, etc. Also, I'd like to start in the New Year employing on a part time basis a physical therapist to work with the children to improve motor skills. If anyone is interested in contributing to buying new mats for the floors, paint for the walls, additional learning material please let me know. Also, CTC has no funds to employ a physical therapist and anyone who wants to call this their baby we would be greatly appreciate. I have not done the exact numbers but it will be less than $100 a month for a therapist.

Thank you all for your constant support and please keep in touch we me. I know I am far away but I love hearing from you.

I'm Back !!!!!!

2008-12-08T11:02:00.003+02:00

Hello Everyone!!! So sorry if I have been quiet for awhile, I went home at my 6 month to visit family. Thanksgiving has never been so good....I really never felt that writing about home was all that interesting to you so I've been MIA. But I just arrived into Kenya and back to the swing of things. Today was our Monday weekly staff meeting which serves as a sounding board for the managers of projects to voice their opinions and supply updates. So many great things happening and I will be updating the blog this week with pics.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, is going to be both a sad and exciting day for me. Weird here how that seems to always be the case. First the sad part. Alison Costain, our Kenya National Director, is leaving for good. Well, I know she'll be back to visit and be part of CTC always so FOR GOOD is always relative. But she's decided to head back to Vancouver. We are going to miss her!!!! Al has been the central force over the past year who has built our facility Maai Mahiu, created so many quality projects and created a solid foundation for CTC. We could never have done what you see now as CTC without her. As an organization we are so thankful to have Al give her time and dedication for nearly a year and a half. A woman on her own in Kenya is truly inspiring, this place can be hard on people, but especially a woman. And that Al was able to get so much accomplished even against the odds is truly amazing. I have worked with her over the past 6 months and she's been a great friend and mentor. She has skills I wish to possess and hope to develop and has been truly welcoming to me. It's been fabulous sharing a house in Kabuku with her and creating so many memories!!! On a personal level I will miss her dearly and wish her all the best. I know that it's time for her to move on and she is going to be so happy teaching again. It's truly her calling! So Alison if you read this I love you and so does CTC and we appreciate all you have done for the organization. And I thank you for the great friend you have been to me. This is not the end "GIRL" so see you soon :)

And the exciting part, my bro is coming tomorrow night. I actually drop Alison at the airport and my bro arrives an hour later. All the way from good ole U.S of A. First time for him in Africa. It's going to be so special to be able to show him around and have some good adventures. The plan is to work a bunch in Maai Mahiu and then take a few trips. He's staying until just after New Years so here's to a good Dillon XMAS and New Years in Kenya. This country has no clue what it's in for .........

Boys Dormitory FINISHED!!!

2008-10-22T23:08:00.004+02:00

This is a follow up to the recent post about our moving the boys at Good Shepherd to their own dorm. Thanks to a generous donation from a well wisher, we were able to finish the siding, paint, add a lantern to the room and metal boxes for each boy. Now they can have a place for the little bit of clothing they possess, some toiletries and such. It was such a good day!! My good friend Joe Merrell, who is out visiting, and I threw up the rest of the plywood. And as I rushed to get a paint brush, Joe worked for a few hours rolling the walls with a good color for boys, Sky Blue. There was a point when all the children came into the new dorm and you could just see the excitement on their faces. Jane, the caretaker, told us it now looked like a bedroom.....comfortable. That statement really did sum it up for me. Simple gestures of love that mean the world to these boys who have so little. Good stuff!!!!

Once we were done I brought the boys in to sit with Joe and take a few shots. I think the smile on Joe's face says it all. Again, thank you for the donation!!! You know who you are and it means the world to the boys. It's gestures like yours that make their lives easier. Asante Sana!!!!!! Oh and thanks Joe for coming out and giving your time. The boys thought you rocked!!!!! I included a picture of a drawing of Joe and I on the chalkboard. Yes that is about how we look..

Bosch Boys

2008-10-22T14:03:00.004+02:00

So here's the story. Weeks ago the windshield wipers on the Pajero broke. Motor went out. Now in the "West" getting that part and fixing it would be as easy as an appointment. But just before Joe, John and I were to leave for the trip to the Mara and go on game drives I took it to that "appointment". Which included driving around to every possible Mitsubishi dealer to find a replacement motor. I think you can already guess, never happened. Well as this is Kenya and you need to make it work, the boys did. An idea, inspiration really out of desperation. Basically, Joe and I figured we could make our own wipers. You can call us the Bosch Boys. As you can see from the pics we took a heavy twine and tied a line to each wiper. Joe held one and I held the other as he was the wingman and I drove. When it rained I would pull to the right, and Joe pulled back. Now as crazy as this sounds it actually worked. Most of the time. This all assumed Joe and I had our shit together to pay attention. If one was off the whole system seemed to fail. So really it all came down to our team. Oh and another technical problem, it was raining pretty hard on a dirt road. If you hit a big puddle made in a huge pot hole and it rushes over the windshield, the Bosch System seems to over load. We're working on that technical issue. You are more than welcome to use the new system but be warned it is patented so please reference the creaters so we don't have to send the Kenyan Secret Police :)

Masai School Classroom FINISHED!!

2008-10-22T13:49:00.003+02:00

Another rewarding day yesterday, Tuesday, as we completed the first classroom at one of the local Masai communities. This project was first started in July when the Faith and Healing team worked all day to put up the walls and start the rafters. We ran a bit over budget so had to scramble to make sure the facility was built. It has taken longer than expected but then TIK "This is Kenya". And for those of you who have been here or who even read this blog regularly know what I'm talking about. Sometimes just completing a job is the biggest reward, scrapping the time table is often necessary. I have included pictures that show the progression of the classroom. As you can see there is still the room to the left which has not been completely. Again, this is due to lack of funds. This too will happen, no time frame :)

We worked all day yesterday, well I should say the fundis (laborers) worked their asses off. As did Rocky, Joe and John. Spending most of the day on the roof finishing the rafters, securing the roof and then laying the mumbati (tin sheeting). By the end we had a big classroom that will now house a class of 25 Masai children. The community is so excited to finally not be sharing the church that is also a tin shed, with the school. To say things were cramped is an understatement. Thank you to the first team in July for coming out and working so hard to start the project. Also, thanks to the donor, no name needed, who funded this classroom. I hope soon enough to update you on the completion of the second classroom.

Joe in the Wild

2008-10-11T15:54:00.006+02:00

As many of you know a very good friend and also big supporter of CTC, Joe Merrell, is out visiting until late October. It's been really good to just hang. We spent a few days this week exposing Ghetto Joe to the wilds of Kenya, the Masai Mara. We spent two nights at this fabulous ranch/farm on the edge of the reserve. The bandas were amazing with Joe even having a bathtub that overlooked the Mara River. Damn Joe life is good :) It was a dude trip with another bud, John Mazor, Joe and I. We spent a full day on drives looking for the big five: lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino and leopard. And we did it!!!! I included a few great shots of some of the wildlife, the boys on top of the Pajero and some shots of the place we stayed. It's truly a blessing to spend time with good friends in a place in Africa that is touched by so much beauty. The trip was such a gift. The nights around the fire bullshitting, and if you know me well you know that is A LOT, were some of the best times. I really also enjoyed watching Joe see it for the first time. We saw so many Discovery shows on these places and to see them first hand blows your mind. I think there were many times Joe was left speechless.

To see these animals in the wild, it hits hard that they should never be kept in zoos. It's not right as these animals are too majestic for that crap. OK I'm going to stop writing now, I think the pictures tell the whole story. Can't wait for my bro to come in December. You get to see this too LUKE :)

CTC Open House

2008-10-11T15:27:00.003+02:00

Sorry this post is a bit late.... Have a good friend from home visiting for a few weeks and we went out to the Mara to see the animals. I'll post a blog on that subject next.

But the most important update is to highlight another great day in Maai Mahiu. A week ago today, Saturday, CTC held it's first Open Day. The plan was to invite all the stake holders from the community to show the projects and work on growing unity within the town. It went very well. I think we would have like to have more people come but there were apprx. 40 community members including several key government officials. Most importantly the MP for the district came all the way from Nairobi to be part of the day. He led very good discussions at each program site. It was wonderful to see the "top dog" appreciating our efforts.. He even pushed the Chiefs representative to give us the rights to use an acre plot in town for an additional community garden. We are not there yet in actually having funding nor the plans totally laid out but the promise is there. How amazing could it be if the town had various community gardens producing quality vegetables and employing local people? Now all we have to do is get it in writing. I have included a few photos of the MP at the garden and Malaika Moms, Malaika kids in sashes and a few random shots of the day.

Overall the day went smooth and we had various CTC volunteers along with Rocky and Ken working crowd control. Alison worked her butt off managing the day and gave a few great speeches on what can be done if we all work together. I think the vibe definitely was one of being impressed. Many people commented on how much the work is helping the community. The plan now is to work those relationships to enhance the current projects. We also need to target working with the community on cleaning up the town, drainage issues, goats eating everything and well the list goes on . But then what would development work be if there weren't more "to do" on our long list, right?

Friday of Play and BIG HELP

2008-10-05T14:05:00.004+02:00

This Friday CTC had the privilege of hosting two groups at the Malaika Kids facility. Both were there to help in very different ways and each so important. The first is called Sarakazi. They are a Dutch/Kenyan Trust who support the performing arts in Kenya. A good friend of CTC, Fernande Verwiel, brought 3 young men who are amazing clowns, artists, acrobats and really awesome with children. They entertained a group of the children with puppets, games, songs, skits and many funny performances. They really were wonderful and kept the children (and adults) laughing constantly. The children really had never seen anything like those few hours of pure hilarity and fun. I included a few pics of Mike dressed as a clown with furry glasses. A few hand puppets and the boys at their best. Also, a picture of Fernande with some of the Malaika girls. I personally wanted to thank them for taking the time to drive the hour to Maai Mahiu from Nairobi and donate precious time to the children. It was a day they will never forget and we hope to work with Sarakazi in the future. We both have the same goal, taking care of children and creating smiles as often as possible.

The second group is called SEP. They organize and train special education teachers and caretakers on how to better work with children with unique needs. They were also wonderful. Karolien, picture included, brought 3 physical therapists and special needs professionals to the facility to lend their EXPERTISE. I highlight that word because we do as best as possible but often need individuals who do this for a living, who know the best possible way to improve what we are already doing. They helped so much. Simple bits of advice like not feeding the children lying down anymore. They asked one of the care takers to lie down and try to eat and drink lying down. She choked and couldn't do it. So now all the boys who can't sit up by themselves are fed sitting up and slowly allowing them to ask for food and digest properly. They also measured the boys who lie on the floor all day for special chairs so we can have them sit up daily and be more involved. We learned that sitting allows the children to improve motor skills and become more aware of their surroundings. Also, they asked us to make sure we had tooth brushes and paste, along with tongue cleaners. Such simple things but with the children who can't brush themselves at least we can assure that they get the proper dental hygiene and this will also reduce sickness. Further, they gave us ideas on toys, interactive material and ways to improve motor skills. One little thing that Karolien did say was she was very impressed with our facility. When Alison worked so hard to set this up with the community there really was very little to model ours off. And Karolien was very impressed how happy the children were and how nice the facility was as she has seen many in Kenya. I guess they aren't that nice. Even with this compliment we realize there is so much more to do and we will do it. Anyone out there interested in helping with chairs for the kids, toothbrushes and paste, re usable cloth diapers please let us know. Thanks again SEP we really appreciate all your advice and hope to work with you in the future. You're a bunch of rock stars :)

Rift Valley Academy and Good Shepherd

2008-09-29T15:08:00.014+02:00

What a fabulous Saturday spent at the orphanage!!! A group of 12 students from the Rift Valley Academy (RVA) in Kijabe came to Good Shepherd to help finish the sack gardens, plant some additional seedlings, move the boys to the dormitory and generally have fun with the kids. We had a great introduction first of songs, skits and "hellos". Every time we do this the kids always have new song to present and this day we even had a song competition. Picture is included. Sorry RVA students, the winner was Good Shepherd. It's pretty hard to beat 18 screaming kids at the song they love the best. From there we broke RVA into three groups. One was to retrofit the old classroom to a boys dormitory. The second group worked on planting the last 3 rows of drip feed. And the last group worked on additional 4 sack gardens.

One of the pressing issues at Good Shepherd was that all 18 children from ages 3 to 12 slept in the same 6 bunk beds. Now this might not be such a big problem but it's a combination of boys and girls. And as you can imagine there have been some problems with boys and girls being well.....boys and girls. So we took a seldom used classroom and went to work. First, we put up plywood siding on the obvious gaps in the walls so that the wind did not come through. Second, we replaced 6 metal sheets on the roof with new ones to stop leaks when it rains. Lastly, some small additions like a new lock and concrete to cover big gaps in the floor. The group of 4 boys who helped did an amazing job. Working tirelessly to fit the siding, lay the concrete and get the room prepared/cleaned. I have included a pictures of the roof off and all the boys in their bunk beds. Precious!!!! Funny, the really young ones you can see on the right side of the picture were a bit scared. Trying to figure out the new digs and get their minds around the a sudden change in their home. The older boys seemed pretty excited to have a new "boys club". I think over the next few weeks they will settle in nicely and Really like the space. We did not have enough money to do this project but it was important to me. So I funded it to make sure it was done immediately. But there are still some needs. We need to finish the siding and paint the room so it looks more homely. That will come and if anyone out there is interested in helping it should not be much, not more that $100. So let me know if you feel the calling.

The second major area was to complete the drip feed systems and get even more sack gardens set up. This is a great impact to the orphanage. It increases the productivity of the garden and allows them to be more self sustained. The RVA kids had never seen this technology and were all excited to learn and jumped right in completing the job that would have taken Rocky and I many days. They did it in one.. I have included some pics of the garden as it stands now, the sack gardens and the children helping. It still amazes me how they always WANT to help. They like working along side us, learning and just being shown that someone really cares for them. Again, a huge thank you goes out to RVA. You did a great job!!!!!

And we did also have some art time and the RVA group worked with the children to make a bunch of educational photos. We tried to focus them this time on hygiene. This seems very simple but they are lessons that most of these children have never been exposed to as no one has taken the time to show them. Lessons like how to wash hands before eating, brush your teeth, wash every day and keep your area clean. Simple examples but so integral to daily life. These will also keep the children from getting sick so often and keep the facility cleaner. I included a pic of the children working at some art. I also included a picture of Cyrus. Of course once the children get markers the paper is not the only canvas. Many had drawn on their own faces. (that is not blood on his face it's red marker). We even had boys coming up to us and lifting up their shirts to show entire drawings on their bellies. So hilarious!!!!!!

Thanks again for RVA, Rocky, Ken, Mwaniki and Alison for good days work. Without you it would have never been possible.

Personal Post :)

2008-09-19T10:29:00.021+02:00

I see that my 3 posts today have all been about work. Sure I'm a part of them also but why not a bit on some of the odd things that happen to me. Well not all odd....

First, what a damn good fish. Yes, this picture mainly is about me catching a whopper and bragging :) Isn't that what men do? Actually, it was a great fishing story. I was invited to go to a lake on one of big coffee plantations by Sven. One of my new fishing buds. Well the day was really good for everyone else. We were four in the boat, Sven, his dad Jan, cousin Kim and I. They were catching fish like mad, nothing for me. Well really I was enjoying my cigars and chatting with the group. Ok Ok that is my justification for not catching fish. You caught me!!! But an hour or so before sunset Kim, Sven and I went out for some last attempts at hooking the big one. They kept telling me how amazing these lakes were when they used to fish them. Well, the two were a bit tired of fishing so I stood up to throw out my fly. It was beautiful. Sun was setting, birds were out in force and the water was glass. We worked this cove for awhile and on a cast out to a little inlet.

BAM!!!!!!!!

This big bass slammed a saltwater fly of all things. What a great fight, under the boat, back to his home, but finally it was time. Time to take a picture and let him go. Ahhhh what a way to end a day. And my first real fish in Kenya. Life is good!!!!!!! Thanks Verwiels for an amazing day on the lake.

Second, is a picture of my new head dress. Yes well as I a now formally a Masaai and need to go hunt lions it's only proper I have a proper head dress. Nah, really I bought it for my wall. It's made of ostrich feathers. But of course I needed to try it on with Julius's, our Masaai watch mans, Rungu to make it authentic. Really I just like an idiot and it was a good laugh for Julius, Alison and Amber. But what the hell, this is what you do when you have nothing better to do.

Lastly, I sunk a boat. This picture says it all. Nah not really I did not sink the boat. Well not totally. I was at the coast and well......I'll leave it at that........ Another "Nathanism"

Good Shepherd Garden

2008-09-19T10:29:00.017+02:00

This is day of updates for me.. Whheeewww my fingers are a typing machine!!!!

Recently, we did some work on the garden at the orphanage, Good Shepherd, CTC supports. The garden where they were trying to grow vegetables really was not successful. So Rocky, John and I spent a few days ripping it out and installing a 40 row drip feed system. Planting various types of vegetables and will eventually finish 5 sack gardens. One of the goals of this garden is to educate the children about agriculture. So yesterday was their first day of "agriculture class" as they call it. By they way, the children are so excited to add another subject. I surely wasn't in school.

Rocky was awesome yesterday. I have included a picture of him with VERY attentive kids as he showed what is planted, the way the drip system works and what needs to be done to take care of it. They surprised me how attentive and involved they were through the class. The children range from 3 to 13 roughly and that is tough to keep them clued in. But Rocky did a great job. Once the basic overview was given, we went outside and broke them into 3 teams equal of big and small kids. They were given a few minutes in separate sections of the yard to pick a name for their group. And what do they each come back with? Animal names. They could have picked anything, but they all picked a Kenyan animal. So we now introduce the Monkeys, Rhinos and Elephants. We then went to the garden and showed them visually how the system works and what each plant looks like. Each group is responsible for 11 rows. Once a week they are to take a little time as a group to weed, make sure the drip holes are aligned with the plant and make sure all is well in their section. We took an hour or so also to weed out the garden and show them how it's done. Even the little ones were so excited to get dirty. I've included a picture of some weeding action. Aren't they precious?

Rocky goes back today for some additional work and education. The plan is to eventually also teach them about sack gardens, composting, conservation and water usage. I really think this is going to work. First, the garden will significantly improve the nutrition of the children with minimal water, and it will teach the children about agriculture and being responsible. What a great program!!!!

Malaika "Angel" Kids Update

2008-09-19T10:29:00.013+02:00

Hello Everyone!!! There is no greater program for CTC than Malaika Kids. For you who do not know is the handicap children's day care. There have been so many developments and I wanted to highlight a few. Just some feel good stories and some smiles from the kids.

My little buddy Dan!!! He's the one with the huge smile, and really that is all he does. SMILE!! He has very little motor skills and cannot speak, stand, sit or eat on his own. But he is the light of the program. He is pretty proud in that picture. Dan learned how to hold his hands in his pockets recently. He was so excited to show me yesterday, laughing and moving his hands to prove to me he can do it. I mean what else can anyone ask for but having pride in simple accomplishments.

I also included a picture of Benson in his new chair. The little chair was simple treat that not only helps Benson improve motor skills but also feel good about himself. Benson grew up not getting off the floor much also. He is severely mentally impaired which tended to hinder his motor skills. Before coming to the program his Mom could keep him in a room and he would not get up. Now that is not the case. He can nearly walk home on his own now. Of course we don't let him :) He also dances now. Every morning the children have a sing along and who is the leader, Benson. He kind of does a hop, spin dance that is very much his own. I recently brought a few small chairs that were donated by a Kenyan family, the Verwiels. They also donated the desks I will talk about in a sec. THANK YOU!!!! Well, Benson LOVES his chair as you can see. He will now sit in the chair all day, sometimes randomly getting up to hop around. It really helps him to feel more mobile and not be in the same position on the floor all day.

The last picture is the older children in their NEW DESKS!! Before they would hunch over on small tables to do their class work. I installed them early this week and when they arrived for class that morning it was as if they had just woke up on XMAS morning to new toys. George, who is in the photo, was hopping around, dancing really, laughing about his new seat. I think for the first time they really felt like they were in school with proper desks. Again, such simple improvement but mean so much to these children. It's wonderful to see parts of life that were basically unattainable to them, achievable. These 5 children, Mike is missing from pic he was sick that day, are now reciting poems, learning to write and read. Numbers, addition all the good stuff about school. So exciting to watch.

Sho Sho Garden September

2008-09-19T10:29:00.010+02:00

I wanted to supply a quick update on the demonstration garden run by the grandmothers. A week or so ago Maai Mahiu received an abnormal rainfall in one day, even hail. Yes hail!!! Which was truly a site for the local town as many had never seen golf ball size ice cubes hitting the metal roofs. That all being said, and though it sounds exotic, it was far from. Since the town has no real drainage system, runoff simply does just that, run off. The soil is often so hard packet that there's also very little sponge action. So guess what? The town is at a slant and what of all things lies at the bottom, yes the Sho Sho garden. The rain was so hard and runoff so strong that it even washed two young girls away. Thankfully they were rescued and are doing fine.

When I arrived the next day the garden was a mess. Stacks of garbage and all the drip feed systems all over the place. I was very worried that we were going to lose all we invested. But never fear the Grandmothers took over and within a day or so it was cleaned up. I wish I had took pictures of the "garbage day" but what I do have pictures I took just yesterday. As you can see the garden looks even better than ever with more crops planted, sack gardens going crazy and the drip feed systems producing tomatoes, onions, spinach and kale. Take a look at the pictures from the previous post as it gives a good comparison to less than a month of additional growth. Good job Gramdmas, always knew they had it in them. Also, included is a picture of the two donkeys and cart that were donated by the Kansas State team. Little business for the Grandmas and guaranteed water to the garden.

Drip Feed Systems Paying Off

2008-08-08T21:29:00.007+02:00

Hello everyone.... I feel like I have not written in so long. I have to be honest Alison, John, Amber and I took a few days on the coast for some relaxation from the craziness we call the teams. What an amazing couple of months and sad to see them leave and excited to get back to work on the projects. Speaking of projects, I wanted to show some progress in the ShoSho Shamba. You might remember it was started from a land donation by a local friend and started with the K-State professors along with the wonderful Grandmothers of the community. Well, take a look at those photos they show the growth of the first drip feed system in two months. So exciting knowing the creative technology brought by a team is showing such great success. The various vegetables are definitely grown much quicker and fuller than those we have planted using traditional methods. It just goes to prove that we can with minimal investment increase yields and decrease water usage. I know this might all sound so boring, agriculture mumbo jumbo, but this really is a key technology we can roll out to the community. Improving nutrition for families is top on our list along with reducing the need to purchase crops on the general market. Who know? If a family had a big enough plot they could even sell from this system.

I also included the sack gardens and the one that looks the fullest was also built and planted as a team of Grandmas and Professors. I swear I don't know who taught who more. These simple sack gardens not only reduce water usage but allow for many plants to be grown on a very minimal footprint. The plants you see here are Sakuma Weeke, a main green that is eaten during most meals. It grows up on a stalk and the family can pick the leaves needed and the plant just keeps growing more. This way you don't kill the plant but use it over and over to feed the family. The plan is to have 20 or so sack garden to demonstrate the successes.

The last picture is good old Rocky holding court with the ShoShos.... There was a disagreement of whether CTC owned and controlled the garden or did the Grandmas. Rocky very eloquently told them that it's their to take and run with . Theirs to manage and reap the benefits. CTC is simply here to fund certain aspects if needed but more so be a helpful hand. They really appreciated that CTC is trying to not only give them opportunity, but also teaching them skills. I a always in such admiration for these women. They are the basis for the community, completely loyal, honest and so hard working. Most will kick my ass in any work. Might even in a fair fight. They are tough woman and it humbles me to be able to work along side them. It's a treat.

Sorry for the delay on writing to you all. I'm back on the horse and ready to ride into some adventures and share what I see. I've loved hearing from you so please keep you notes coming. I miss you all and wish you were here. Let me know if you ever want to come to Kenya. Would love to see you.

Doctors to the Rescue

2008-07-22T17:36:00.009+02:00

My day started as all normal days might start back in the the States, picked up a donkey cart. The picture is of the Pajero, my daily driver when she works, and the cart on top. I swear the community of Maai Mahiu really must think us mzungus (foreigners) are a weird bunch. Driving all day around the town in a big SUV with a hand plastered on all sides and a huge donkey cart on the rack. I got more odd looks today then ever. I think we honestly make it harder for ourselves sometimes :)

The doctors from Kansas arrived a few days ago and today was their second day seeing patients. We arranged for an average of 150 to be seen every day for 4 days. It's been a pleasurable, managed chaos, if that's possible. The pre-organization has paid off, thanks to Doctor Steve and Alison!!! The doctors are amazing, seeing patient after patient from 8:30 to 5 with no rest and short lunches.....Have to admire their dedication to helping others. I have always wished I had the stomach to be a doctor. I know if it had been in my cards my services could have been used all over the world. But back to the day. The only dentist in the group, I learned actually new my uncle Mike from the Air Force. He's been a rock star who lost count yesterday with well over 100 teeth pulled. Yeah that's right one after the other and even pulled 11 out of one 40 somethings hurting mouth. There really is no other option as there are no x-ray machines, drills and specialized operating machines so it's pull them. If they are bad they come out. The locals eat a lot of processed sugar, drink lots of tea with sugar and don't really brush or floss. So you can imagine the teeth and many of these have lived with rotted teeth for years. I hate a small tooth ache and back home get it fixed immediately......never would I settle for years.

We had a brilliant surprise today. A woman came in VERY pregnant and ready to give birth. There was little time and the doc and nurses jumped to action delivery a beautiful, tiny baby girl, Theresa. How adorable she was wrapped in a make shift blanket. She truly was the toast of the clinic today. This government clinic does not generally deliver a lot of babies as they charge 1200 shillings ($200) which is often too costly for a poor family. So they use mid-wives, which made our treat that much sweeter. And on the same subject but a sadder note I was part of a still birth. See it really is just a perfect example of how fast things change here. I know reading about beautiful Theresa and then I bust a quick hard left on you is startling but really that is how it is daily here. When you least expect it, IT happens.

Actually, I was leaving to go show part of the team the disabled kids day care and the ShoSho Shamba. As we pulled out a matatu, a van basically with bench seats used for local transportation, pulled next to the Pajero. Out jumped various people asking for help. It was very confusing but it took a very short time for us to get the picture of BABY. Out rushed the OBGYN doc and nurses and the woman was definitely full of baby and having a baby NOW. And it wasn't 30 seconds but they had her laid down on the bench seat in the matatu and out popped a tiny little baby. We found out later it was 7 months old. Almost instantly the look on the doctor's face said it all. It was still birth. Sorry if I use "it" to be honest I never found out if the baby was a boy or girl. It was a hard fact of life to see in person. Of course we all know things like this happen, it's part of life. But seeing it in person, going in with the baby and watching the doc clean her/him up was tough. The baby looked like a baby and seemed to me to be able to live on it's own. And it made it very real and extremely sad. The look on the mother's face said it all. She knew that the baby had passed. I have not really come to terms with this event and it might take some time.

Rare Flawless Day

2008-07-17T19:43:00.002+02:00

Now not to sound negative but here in Kenya for a day to go smoothly with even some welcomed surprises is pretty rare. So I welcomed today with open arms, well more realized when I arrived home how wonderful was this Thursday. So the day started out early, pick up good old Rocky at the junction of Kabuku at 8. Well that started before the pick up with Zane arriving to tow the Pajero to the road to have enough speed to "pop" the clutch and get the damn thing started. Actually, I shouldn't talk about the beast that way. I have come to terms with the inevitability of this car causing issues, I'm at peace with her (don't tell Al I called her a her, she thinks it's a guy). But then I have my own connection with the female auto.

OK let's get back to the day. Picked up Rocky to drive an hour or so to pick up a fuel efficient stove for Good Shepherd Orphanage, need to get those fuel costs down. Well the funny part of the morning was because the car will not start on it's own, I could not turn "her" off. So basically each stop I left the car running. That ended up being pretty hilarious as it took a solid 20 minutes of waiting until the stove pick up was complete. From there Big Rock and I went to the plastic company who are making custom boxes for us to use in the garden. Upon arriving there and having a very productive discussion with the manager, car still on running out in the parking lot, I told him how we needed to run. A car was still running and I needed to get to the Mitsubishi dealer to get it looked at. The manager had the best news ever. The mechanics across the road, who's his good friend, knew a lot about Pajeros and he'd make a call to get them to help. And then another great surprise. The guys at this shop actually were up front, quick and very knowledgeable. Not to say that there aren't good mechanics in Kenya but I had yet to meet any. The boys took a short time to take out the starter and just happened to have an extra in the back. They popped it in and FINALLY a car that starts as it should. And it cost at least a fourth of what it would have cost going to the dealer.

EUREKA!!!! I swear the simple pleasures sometimes.

And then I got more stupendous (never used that word before) news, as if this was not enough. The son of the owner knew exactly where to get a Sheesha/Hooka (basically an Arabic pipe)...Yeah I know to many that may seem like a silly Eureka but I have been looking and when most were not that great and still cost 200-300 bucks here, well this was another EUREKA!!! Rocky took a nap in the car (he calls it a siesta) never knew he had Spanish in him :) Was able to bargain a smokin' deal on a beautiful Sheesha and tons of apple smokes to go along. Came back tonight and sat outside, lit the smoke and listened to Bob Marley watching the sun come down. There was something about having a day that was productive, surprising and all around enjoyable. Oh and to boot Rocky and I had a fabulous lunch of roasted goat. I know that must just make so many of your mouths water......NOT!!

Community Through Touch

2008-07-09T18:03:00.014+02:00

The second team currently working in Maai Mahiu as many of you have read from the previous post. They're great, 18 total....3 men and 15 women... They have all been full of joy and excitement, open to all the challenges Kenya throws at them. Yesterday was a day of manicures and pedicures for the community in the hopes of providing free pampering for those who were interested. Most women in the town have never had any sort of love heaped on them through beauty. Funny how something we accept so easily can be so foreign to others. We honestly didn't know how it would be received or who would show up. A smaller group within the larger CTC team ran this day including the following 5 team members. Cindi and Nicole gave manicures. Barry, Jennifer and Abbey gave pedicures. There various CTC volunteers whisked warm water back and forth, translated when needed and all around supported the day with awesome dedication.

A constant flow of CTC local volunteers, grandmothers and other community women streamed in through out the day. The CTC gals tirelessly loved on 24 women for a very long 8 hour shift. It was truly amazing to watch the bond that developed between the CTC team and the community. So many smiles and deep conversations. The vision was that through touch and giving of one self a bond could be developed. And it was! Many of the grandmothers at first were reluctant of the whole process but once their feet were placed in the warm bucket of water, Enya playing in the background (I know only in a make-shift spa would Enya be OK), they accepted openly. At the beginning the ShoShos (grandmas) were against having their hands done. They figured they were going to go to the gardens the next day and what use was there in pretty hands and ruining them. But I gave my best beauty tips and explained that a day of beauty is worth everything. Like I know anything about a woman's beauty routine but there was no way I was going to let them slip from having a truly pleasurable experience. By the end of the day the ladies all walked around showing each other their feet and hands...full of smile and colorful nails.

The deep connection happened during the sessions. Each CTC team member had a volunteer from the community (those you see in red in the pictures) to translate should there be any confusion. The conversations I overheard were truly moving and uplifting. They talked about everything from children to the trials of life, from how to keep thier hands beautiful to what was hard about living in Maai Mahiu. Some even sang songs and everyone laughed A LOT. I tried to ask every woman who was receiving a pedi/mani if they had ever had one done. Not one, yes that is correct, out of 24 not one had ever had this pleasure. And each when I asked do you like it, said Musuri Sana (Very Much).... To watch the endless massages, sugar scrubs and delicate soothing was truly a gift.

I have to admit I was actually a bit jealous. Jealous that everyone was enjoying themselves so much. They were giving to each other what is the most basic but often times forgotten gift, love. I wanted some :) But then this was not a day for me, it was a day for community through touch. I was blessed to just be present.

Attack of the "Not so Killer" Termites

2008-07-05T14:51:00.005+02:00

Last night was July 4th. Happy Independence Day !!!! The new team from the states arrived a few days ago and we had a small party last night to celebrate those damn colonies kicking out the Brits. Well, not if you ask the Brits but then the history books are always a bit slanted, right?.... During a lovely dinner with rain falling, we were suddenly bombarded by a swarm of dollar coin sized, flying termites. Pretty hilarious to watch the different reactions from pure terror to delight from the party crowd. Guess the little bugs are signaled by a strong rain to take flight and move into new territories. Sorry to all wooden structures in the area, you were under attack along with our little CTC crew. And then someone threw out a "Hey I'll pay anyone 1000 shillings (around 18 bucks) to eat a termite. Yeah these are the bright ideas we get when away from home and in the mood to challenge our eating habits :) So of course I jumped up, grabbed a bug and well yeah you get the point. To be really honest they don't taste like much, expected a sour nasty taste but its was like eating nothing. Well it did squish and was a bit odd but oh well. Well, I have yet to collect my mullah but that was no matter as my eating then laid the gauntlet for two of the girls to also jump in and have a try. The video and pictures are truly something and sorry have not downloaded any, my connection is slow today. But I think you all can imagine a bit......

Shorty after the employees entered the outside seating area to a Kenyan Christian song blaring. Dancing in a sort of congo line with a leader of torches and behind him a cake. Not just any cake but an American flag cake...... How cool was that? Everyone instantly jumped up clapping and joining the congo. For a whole song the team danced around the table and truly some of the happiest colonists I have ever seen. From there we all sang the Star Spangled Banner. Yeah pretty corny I know but there was something about a group of near strangers joining together to remember our independence that really was moving. Liz and Zane decided to follow that with a little cake in your face bonding moment. Then of course what is a independence celebration without a limbo competition. Who the hell knows how that started or really who won. I think it was a tie between Molly and Tyler. Good show you two!!!!!

So what started out with a small dinner ended up in a bug eating, congo dancing, cake in your face, limbo competition night. How perfect and totally right can an independence day be? Happy Birthday America!!!!!

Without women, what would a man do?

2008-06-25T12:28:00.002+02:00

There's a song by Bob Marley , No Woman No Cry. This can be true but over the past few days I've seen how for me it does not apply. My good friend, work bud and roommate, Alison, reinforced that Nathan needs women generally to save his skin :) So I returned home the other day with a car that has been a pain for CTC for awhile now. But I have both financially and emotionally taken the project under my wing. I am committed to making this beautiful beast work for us. I had noticed upon returning home after a long time with the mechanic (a pain for a whole other blog) the central instrument lights had gone out. Basically, my entire ride home I had no clue the engine temperature, which on Pajeros (car make) can be very dangerous due to over heating. And I could not use my blinkers or read any of the various panel instruments. OK so I was sure that it had to be the work that the electrician had recently done on the panel. I was searching playing with wires, being an idiot thinking if I shake wires it will solve a problem. Such a Nathanism.....For those of you who really know me that is an obvious statement. So after 20 minutes of me floundering, Al walks up and casually says "Could you have blown a fuse?".. I gave her one of those Nathan looks like "Are you F... kidding me?" And if you know me well you get that also..... And yes take a wild guess, the damn fuse for the entire instrument panel had blown. Now let me at least save some face and say it was due to a short in the work in the electrician's work........OK I'll stop no need to save face right?

Then it got better I was looking all around the house for my driving license that made me avoid check points all day so not to have to pay a bribe. Yes, westerners, that is what happens here. Sorry to say.....Well I looked and looked, was really frustrated, thought I had searched everywhere. Al then says "Did you check your day planner?" Which happened to be sitting on the dining table of where I had searched "around" many times. And of course, yes you are getting the point, it was right there in the first page.

As I think now there are various other examples already of being "saved" recently. And I don't mean the religious kind. I've realized over and over that though good old Bob may have had a point No Woman No Cry, for me I'd be lost without them. Right now I know that my Mom, every girl I ever dated, Aunts, Grandma and the Shoreview Crew (especially the woman) are smiling and nodding. Saying to themselves "Yeah duh Nathan". But at least I realize it, isn't that worth something?

Sad Day in Maai Mahiu

2008-06-17T20:51:00.005+02:00

What started out as a very productive day turned fast into a somber, reflective and shocking afternoon. This will last for months. Today Faith, CTC's dedicated manager of the Handicap Children's Day Care and all around amazing woman passed away. It all started yesterday for Alison and I. Faith was not feeling well for some days but nothing serious, or so it seemed. She has had a history of chest problems and physical disabilities. She's fought through hard obstacles in life including Polio at a young age and as she grew older developed a curvature of the spine. With all of this she fought every day for those who were handicap both mentally and physically. She was a bright light with a smile and a warm hug daily.

To get back to what happened. basically she was getting sick over the past week. But on Sunday in Monday she started to get really sick. She had decided on Sunday to just wait until Mon. to get to the hospital. In hind sight she should have never waited. When Al and I first got the call on Monday she was on her way to Naivasha Hospital which freaked Al out as it's not known as the best. So we had her come back to the CTC office and we took her in the truck up to Kijabe (private hospital) immediately. What I saw when she could barely climb into the truck was a devastated woman. She could barely breathe. The best way to describe it is if you have ever been punched in the gut and can't breathe, well that was her constant breathing. It was painful to watch, she was basically gasping constantly, she was drowning. The ride up on the bumpy, damn road was also unbearable to watch. Every lurch seemed to shorten her breath and create a look of desperate panic. Once we got to the hospital I had to lift her out of the truck and place her in a wheel chair, she could not move. We rushed her into the emergency, making a great noise for immediate help. The Kenyan doctors do the absolute best they can, but are so overloaded with patients most get lost in a sea of need. I again had to pick her up off the chair and into a gurney. It tore my heart out because even my lifting and placing the best I could manage obviously put a severe strain and a look of pain and fear ripping through her face. Trying my best to comfort her "Breathe Faith, slow Faith, please breathe." Now I see my words of encouragement were on deaf ears, I don't even know if she heard me. She was struggling to live.

We waited and waited outside and finally a nurse came out and asked if I'd help wheel her to the radiation room. I remember thinking "Sure, no problem." And at the same moment thinking "Wait why are you asking me, where are the hospital people" But it was another example of being under staffed. Ken and I rolled her down various long hallways with perhaps 50 or more Kenyans who were waiting for some time for a doctor just gawking. Little did they know at that time, nor did I, that they were gawking at someone who was not going to make it. Again, in the radiologists area, I picked her up and put Faith on the bed. By this time her eyes were rolling back in her head....... I realize now maybe this is too much detail but it's a bit therapeutic for me. But I'll stop as I don't want to relive it in public, for Faith.

At that point when we left Faith the doctors thought it was pnemonia, which it was. Severe pnemonia. So flash to today Al and I are in a meeting at the office and one of the other ladies who works with the children, Jane, came by and told us she had just heard, Faith had passed. Basically, as we later learned from going and speaking with the hospital, Faith had rebounded a bit overnight but woke to a severe reaction and passed at 10 AM ..........

Upon hearing the news, I walked to the edge of our office and looked up towards the grand mountains in front of me, the Rift Valley. Don't really know what I was looking for at first but then realized I was looking at Kijabe, the place she left us. Just naturally felt right. I really fought every ounce of my being not to break down on the spot. I was in shock. After meeting the family and spending time with them, and this might sound strange, odd, whatever...... I felt blessed. That in her time of need I was able to carry her. I was able to be with her and shoulder the burden in the smallest way I knew how. Feeling blessed does not make it better, though. It does not bring her back for her 3 sons and 1 daughter. I guess it just gives me some solace that I was there for her.

So to Faith, thank you for all you have done for the community of Maai Mahiu. Thank you for your love for your children and constant light you shown on all of us. I don't know where you have gone, but in the place I hope you are happy with no pain. We will miss you Faith and love you from the bottom of our hearts. And Dad, wherever you are, can you please go over to Faith and say hello. Give her one of those huge bear hugs you're known for and help her get comfortable. She might need a friend. Oh and tell her.......well you will know what to say. Love you both!!!!

P.S. I have included two photos of Faith. One helping as she always did, she's in red. And the other with the Mother's of the Handicap Children. She's in the middle, so small so grand.

Misty Sunday Morning

2008-06-15T09:04:00.004+02:00

Am I living in England or Kenya? Waking this morning to rain, heavy fog and cold sure did remind me of the UK in October not Kabuku in June. That being said the "cabin" Alison and I share is at 3500 ft elevation and was one of main spots the original English colonists settled due to it's resemblance to their temperate homeland. I guess that is why they call the entire area the Highlands. I'm sitting here by a very warm fire with Kramer, Alison's brown lab, for company (picture included), looking out on a fabulous garden Simon the gardener has diligently been toiling for a few months now (pic included). We have various vegetables and herbs that are due at any time for the eaten'. There are potatoes, cabbage, spinach, onions, beets, carrots, tomatoes and zucchinis. The garden is ringed by sunflowers who have full glowing flowers except for today. I think this English Sunday has mad them a bit sad. Withering, hiding from the rain and cold. Right now as I look out the window it's lightly raining with a slight breeze. So happy I am bonding with Kramer right now and not outside :-)

I've been master mining some plans that I have been trying to talk Al and Simon into over the past week or so. Chickens, yes chickens. We have been eating tons of eggs every morning and since we now have a professional farm, well O.K. small garden, we need livestock. Two dogs do not count. Didn't mention Oscar but he is a whole other blog unto himself. Tried to talk Al into other animals like Llamas (don't have them in Kenya), pigs (we have no clue how to raise them), rabbits (prob. would not eat them) and ostriches (threw that in at the end but we figure it would probably stomp Oscar). So chickens are the ticket. I included a picture of the eventual "plot" for coop. This is all assuming the gardener and Al agree......

It's pretty amazing how different the energy is being in Nairobi or Maai Mahiu to Kabuku. Kabuku is green, rural and peaceful. The most noise comes from Oscar or Kramer barking at nothing. Or rather Kramer sitting for a long time staring at the zucchini barking. He has an infatuation with eating the green vegetable lately and since the fence is up around the garden he is more frustrated than ever. Ah the life of a dog.

I think I am actually going to buck this rainy Sunday and venture out for a bit of a Rocky moment. Yes it's crazy, go for a run. I mean really the rain will not wither me like the sunflowers and I can deal with a bit of a soggy road. OK, reality is I might be back in 10 minutes but hey I gave it a try, right?

Day on top of a Landcruiser

2008-06-11T22:29:00.003+02:00

What a day!!! Some of the simple pleasures here in Kenya seem to make a day. Today was the last for the Kansas State team and the plan was to visit the Masai to measure out the foundation for a school CTC is building when the second summer team arrives in early July. The ride is a good hour south of Maai Mahiu toward Tanzania and the Masai Mara. We were already overloaded with people, 10, in the SUV so it was time to jump on the roof rack. Sorry Mom if your reading this :) But what a treat. The Mara where we were headed is filled with acacia trees, zebras, impalas and spring bucks. The Masai are herdsmen so there are also constant herds of goat, sheep and cattle along our drive. Often the boys herding are young, maybe 10-15 yrs. What trust the elders have in these young men, since to a Masai a head of cattle is often more valuable than human life. Here I am cruising along on the top of a land cruiser through some of the most picturesque land I've ever seen. Wind in my non hair and dust in my eyes actually made for a perfect Wednesday. There was a point on the ride when a herd of zebra zoomed by due to the speed of the truck and I thought "Holy shit I'm in Africa and those are zebra"..... One of those out of body experiences through which Kenya living expresses itself. Every so often we'd pass one of those young herds boys and they'd peer in the distance. A look of amazement "Look at the crazy Mazungo (white man) on the TOP of a truck".... To locals why would a Mazungo ever ride on the top when that is for those who have been pushed out do to lack of space. And there I was throwing up a big wave and a smile. The reaction was always the same..... A arm shot up with an excited wave back and an instant look of joy. I guess we really are just the same in the end. Happy to see each other even if one is herding and the other is being free. Both free I guess. The worst part of the trip was when I had to give up the ride due to police on the road who surely would have asked for a bribe as we were clearly breaking the law with a Mazungo on the roof. Ah well to another day of Landcruiser surfing.

ShoSho's Shamba (Grandma's Garden)

2008-06-06T15:11:00.013+02:00

Almost my the entire yesterday, Thurs., was spent at a plot of land in town donated to CTC by Paula Meyer. CTC is using the area to build and maintain a demonstration garden. As an organization we realize that our strength is in empowering members of the local community. To accomplish this with the demonstration garden, CTC formed a group comprised of grandmothers (criteria: they had to be taking care of a disabled person and/or a person suffering from HIV/AIDS)

There are several objectives for this piece of land which measure apprx. 100'x50'. The first goal is to to increase the nutrition for the families of these Grandmothers (ShoShos). Often, the individuals of a family are malnourished. The second, is to teach the women, many of whom have never planted more that maize and beans, more productive and sustainable farming. This week a group from Kansas State has been working with the ShoShos to implement a drip feed irigation system and composting process. Lack of water is a serious problem in Maai Mahiu the drip feed system will water crops with minimal resource since it targets the plant individually, not over watering. (A picture is included). The final goal is to demonstrate to the local community more productive systems/processes for farming.

One of the local volunteers, Rocky, (picture included with Herschel from Kansas State) manages the program for CTC and has done a wonderful job. It's amazing to see how local community members step up to positions of leadership and drive projects with such maturity.. Without him this garden would not be possible. He has various plans with the ShoShos to expand the drip feed system, implement a composting routine, build a shade/greenhouse area, introduce Grow Boxes and educate the ShoShos. We hope to grow all the vegetables needed for daily family nutrition along with possibly growing money making plants such as flowers, seedlings and trees. After watching the ShoShos in action, I am a believer. They jumped right in the first day and cleared the land of debris in record time, jumped to plowing out an area for the first drip system and were extremely engaged in the eduction discussions. When we were working the land and there was not enough equipment they worked diligienty with their hands without a fuss. Digging and raking away without tools....

Saturday is the local Maai Mahiu celebration of World Environment Day. The plan is to hold workshops where the K State team, Rocky and the ShoShos will demonstrate the drip irrigation system, proper organic composting and plant additional seedlings. The plan is then to grow the garden and reap the rewards......ShoSho Shamba (Grandma's Garden).

Good Shepherd Children's Home

2008-06-01T16:33:00.004+02:00

This post is a day late, sorry. I was waiting for pictures to update the blog. Yesterday, Saturday, was spent in Maai Mahiu and a significant time at the Good Shepherd Children's Home (Orphanage). The home is in a horrible state and has been forgotten by both the govn't and outside aid. There are 18 children who call the home home with one adult, Jane as the care taker. To describe Jane is a saint is an understatement. It amazes me still how local Kenyans step up and burden massive loads for the community. She has independently taken on the cause, as she puts it "I have been called to serve and protect these children". She's the farmer, Mom, school teacher and all around provider for a band of beautiful young ones. Many were street children before coming to the home and others are simply orphans. As bad as the conditions are currently there is actually a waiting list for children, but she simply does not have any more room nor funds. So those children sleep on the streets of Maai Mahiu and every day come for food. I included a picture of where all the 18 children sleep. There are not enough beds for everyone so they simply pile next to one another. Before CTC, the children were sleeping on old foam mattresses with no covers.

Jane runs a few classrooms at the home. Simply because the orphans cannot afford regular school with uniforms and fees. There are no supplies what so ever so Jane uses wheat sacks as wall hangings. She writes on them the alphabets, pictures and lessons. Those attending the school are broken down into 18 children of 3-6 yrs, 4 children of 7-10 yrs. and 6 children from 10-12 yrs. In addition to no funding the children are malnourished. I have included a picture of the daily meal for the children. Many look younger than they actually are due to poor nutrition. There is no water source available so they use rain run-off. They simply cannot afford to purchase water which is the main source for most of Maai Mahiu residents. The toilet that all children use daily is nearly to the top. I don't have a picture of the drop toilet but when I looked in the hole it was maybe 3 feet from the top. The holes are generally dug 40ft. so you can imagine. A new toilet needs to be dug ASAP.

The Plan: This orphanage is in dire need and is an urgent CTC project. But it's a new project and we are currently researching various ways to fund (it's not in CTC budget currently) and properly improve facilities. First, we need to create an assessment of how much the orphanage will cost to run. Right now, it costs Jane $110 a month for rent and food (of which it's not adequate). We need to get an exact figure to properly fun this facility. Also, a team of professors from Kansas State Univ. will be at the home this week. Their expertise is agriculture and nutrition. The plan is for them to analyse the productivity and recommend improvements for the 1 acre plot to grow food. We need to make Good Shepherd more self-sufficient. This group also has nutritionists who will work to recommend a proper "local"diet so that the children are adequately fed. Lastly , we need to look at the costs of improving the toilet, living quarters, food preparation area etc.

Alison and I will be running these efforts over the next few months. For now the funds come out of our pockets. If any of you are interested in getting involved with this project please let me know. CTC simply cannot do this on our own and we need your contributions. Any assistance directly goes to help these children. We need all the help we can get :)

I miss you all and thanks for taking the time to stay in touch.......

Handicap Children Program

2008-05-30T20:00:00.004+02:00

Most of today was spent in Maai Mahiu checking in on various CTC (Comfort the Children) projects. One of the key 4 month old projects is the Handicap Children Day Care. Alison Costain, in country director for CTC, noticed months ago that there were many children with mental and some significant physical impairment. Often, the children were left at home with pressure put on their mothers, grandmothers and sometimes far less to look out for them. She designed a program that months later is showing great success. There are 17 children looked after in 2 play/school rooms with 3 "volunteer" teachers/aids who look after the children and work with them to improve mental and motors skills. The two rooms are divided based on age and disability. Often, those that cannot speak have also physical disabilities including a few that cannot stand on their own power. Upon entering the first room I was silenced. Humbled to a point of tears welling. These little ones were bright lights. Many had huge smiles!!!! Peacefully playing with learning puzzle games.

The two teachers, Jane and Nancy, described how just 4 months ago there were children who could not stand. For example, little Suzanne, preciously adorable. Upon arrival she could not walk but through hard work is now up with a walker. I could see the joy in her face having the mobility as she sort of shuffled, strolled over to me to put her hand out to shake my hand. "Sasa" (hello) I said and she replied "Fit" (Hello).......And then there was George. I am no doctor but he obviously has down syndrome and when he came in, Nancy explained, did not relate well to the other children. He constantly started fights and hit others. And over the past few months she described how he now rarely causes disturbances. This is mostly because the women work with him patiently and the program surrounds hims with other children on a regular basis. And last there was Danson, who has severe motor skills and mental impairments. Talk about a blessing!!!! Though he cannot get off the floor by himself and is permanently dependant on care takers, the moment you step in the room he constantly shines with the the biggest smile. It really brightens up the room. He can't talk but the smile is enough.

Currently, there is a waiting list for children to attend and CTC is limited by space and cash. Today we were made aware that there are two more rooms available just behind the existing school that we could use to grow the program. This is an exciting possibility and will cost us $80 a month for two rooms, $50 for a volunteer stipend a month and if we add 10 more children it will cost $80 to feed all 10 for a month. So total it will cost $210 per month to increase by 10 children. For most of us a days wage could cover a month of care taking these children. Time to become aware and make a difference :)

Perfect day for a blog

2008-05-29T18:12:00.001+02:00

What a day to start my first blog ever! May 29th is the anniversary of my "pops" passing. I know that might sound heavy and it is a bit. But I feel lighter than expected. I'm sitting in my new nyumba (home) in Kenya. I finished the big move this week. And I feel extremely blessed to be allowed the chance to come work for Comfort the Children in Kenya and that I even had a father who was so inspirational. Without his guidance, love and free-spirit all this would not be possible. Some people say, and I have been proved to believe, that those close to us who have passed speak to us in tiny little ways. From the beginning for me it's been hawks. Yeah I know kind of odd. They have been around many times during the past few years especially when I have thought a lot and deeply about pops. Yesterday, I was sitting in the yard in front of the home, my first real day settled. Above me on the tallest tree a screech kept drawing my attention. And yes what could it be but a huge African hawk. And above it gliding were two others. And then today Alison, my roomie, were driving around Nairobi and I there was a hawk flying between two buildings. And of course I have been thinking tons about my dad. Hmmmm!!!

So here it is......he's with me. I know this. And for that I am grateful. The past 3 years have not been all that easy. But the ups and downs have been a learning experience. Not one I wish on anyone but meaningful just the same. I used to think that when people would say "There is not a day that goes by I don't think of someone" they were over dramatizing. Well I have learned they're right on. There can be nothing or something that draws my attention to my father. Reminds me of his huge bear hugs, intense love, total pride in me and his adoration for his family. Luke, Mom and I were and I guess still are lucky. For we have his legacy and each other. Even if it was too short, pops taught me the true meaning of .........Livin' the Dream

And so that is why today is fitting and the title of my blog in Kenya is of the same title.....