HERE COMES THE SUN

It has been a little over a week since we stepped foot on American soil again.

No matter where we are in the world whether it be a beautifully bricked home on the mountainside,a ball field, a crammed slum in Kenya, the Capitol of the United States, the Peanut Capital of the World, a summer camp,a hard day in an office, an airplane, a late night working at the diner, an Italian palace, or a Western wilderness...

whether it be a season of revenue, health,harvest, sickness, debt, confusion, answers, death, divorce, excitement, learning, adventure, relaxation, stress, victory, adversity, or just simplicity he is there. I know this because He promises to give us a hope and a future and I saw that hope in the African people.

Auburn is taking over the world this summer!

"Look among the nations and see, wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told." Habakuk 1:5

Here's to my friends all over the map right now (Italy, Paris, England, Vail Colorado, Washington DC,Hawaii, Huntsville, Honduras, JH Ranch, Atlanta, Winn Shape, Jackson Hole, Auburn, New Hampshire, Tuscaloosa,Florida's 30-A,Dothan, Montgomery, Ireland, Australia, China, and Kanakuk to name a few).

I miss Africa. I miss my teammates and the people there. I miss the songs and the smiles and yes... even the strange toilets. I miss their simplicity and I miss this enthusiasm.

After returning it is amazing and disgusting how much I value (still) things that really don't matter.

I need wisdom of what to do next. How to help and love these people who welcomed me into their country to experience their hopes, dreams, and ambitions in the midst of extreme poverty and despair.

I don't want Africa to be a "mission trip."

Honestly.. I don't like that term anymore.

I want it to be the way that I live and the way that I think. I don't want to love on people for two weeks and then peace out. I feel called to Africa. Whether that means going, sending, living, praying, paying, or sharing I don't know yet.

They've got "soul" and I want to be a part of it!

I do know my heart is there even if I never get to physically go back. As far as we're concerned we're still there dancing with them!

my American Lit and Accounting grades right now reflect that my brain is still in another continent.

I want my life to be the mission instead of a quick getaway. Selfishly I find part of myself wishing I could go to Anthropologie or buy some cool antique furniture and the other half of me is disgusted with the American way of life. Contradicting, eh?

Please keep praying for these people and for our hearts here to melt more and more. I was asked to speak at my grandparent's church on Sunday:

A- public speaking
B- I am not really good at talking the "church" lingo cause it kinda gets on my nerves
C- I want to keep it real and be real.

Father,
May the words that leave my mouth on Sunday be yours and not mine! May the pictures, stories, and prayers bring you glory and bring hope to the "least of these."
Amen.

If you would like to learn more about Mocha Club, African Leadership, or how to donate to my trip or these organizations feel free to contact me.

I am at work right now and I love my job! It is awesome to experience what I might be doing once I graduate. We are doing a few renovations right now that are "off da chain". I am so thankful for this opportunity and I enjoy the people I get to experience. It is interesting to go from slum to elaborate kitchens with mahogany and copper! Culture shock? Yes. But...

We are ALL the same.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Snapshots

Click Thumbnail to View Pictures and Video!

Still trying to figure out how to create a photostream!

Saturday, June 12, 2010

No Longer a Mzungu

We made it home last night around ten pm! Thank you for all of the prayers and encouragement over this trip. Please continue to pray for Africa as well as our hearts here...that we will always have a burden to pray and support the people of Africa.

GET EXCITED! Pictures will be up this weekend!

Until then... I thought you all would enjoy this video. My friend Carrie Vermillion made this. Props to her for catching little children wiggling their hips... and for making it fit Beyonce's beat perfectly. These are just clips throughout the week put to the Single Ladies song.

http://www.vimeo.com/12481095

watch this!

ps... if you haven't gotten to see what our team did throughout the past two weeks... I encourage you to go back and read the old blog posts!

Thursday, June 10, 2010

antelope monkey and buffalo oh my!

what a bitter sweet day! I'm in the airport blogging from my iPod . Today we woke up very early for our safari. It was dark and rainy when we left for Nairobi national. The vans we've been using the whole trip have super powers. The roof pops up for safaris. We loved hanging out of the top. We saw a giraffe, antelope, monkey, jackal, ostrich, water buffalo. We also saw other birds and bugs. The plains were just as beautiful as I imagined. I enjoyed the gentle breeze on top on the car and hearing the birds. The adventure was also thrilling with bumpy hills that tested the strength of our vans.we didn't see anything unusual but the experience was perfect. We saw lots of poop and carefully crossed wooden bridges. We did it all... And yes we sang lion king. Afterwards we went to kizuri jewelry and then ate Chinese food again. We had a sweet time encouraging one another and praying before heading in the insane Kenya traffic to the airport. We said goodbye to our Hawaii teammates since their plane left early. Parting is sad! Aboutto board planein an hour I'd so. Sorry this is unorganized!

FOUND MY CELL PHONE

dear momma,

i found it :)

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Balancing Equations

10 am. School bell rings. Off to Chemistry class with the sophomores. Woah buddy. I forgot how terrible I am at science. After all I did score a 1 on the AP test (that's the worst if you're wondering). When class finished the kids forced the teacher out of the room and we sang songs. Rockin'.

1:00 pm. lunch. very dry corn and collard-ish greens. I ate it. I am thankful that I do not have to worry about what to eat everyday. I wanted to experience what they experience. I can't imagine that as my only meal every day.

2:00 pm. Toured their slum. That was the first time we got to walk through a slum. The dirt/mud roads were narrow and were filled with trash and animal droppings. Children were running around without pants and sometimes without shoes. We got to a point when we were near a bunch of men by the river and they strictly told us before we saw them that we COULD NOT take pictures. Once it was safe again we crossed a bridge over a muddy stream. It was not a trusty bridge. It was made of old branches. I felt like Tom Sawyer or something. Didn't fall in. YES! No water sicknesses for our team today. Thank you, Lord. Over the bridge is a hill that overlooks the whole slum. I took a picture that I will show you. Like I've said a million times.. a picture does no justice for the smell.

3ish: took pictures of the kids and printed them so they could have pictures.
3:30 ish

PLOWED in the field. Yes. With a hoe. They taught me. I had quite a few laughs. Who ever thought we would be working on a field in Africa? I am so glad we did. I eventually caught on. This was part of their curriculum. I don't know many high schoolers back at home that would work on a field for a class in pure sunshine heat&humidity. They have great attitudes and spirits.

Long, bumpy ride back. Threw clothes on that weren't sweaty. Left to go eat at Irene's. She founded the New Dawn School. She stumbled across this slum when many people from her church live there. She was trying to minister to the wealthy and then all the slum folks showed up. At first she was annoyed that they were there, but when she went to their village she found a heart and a passion for the people. She was the reason New Dawn came to become the only Secondary school in the area. She was awesome. Her obedience to the Lord's calling was inspiring and that is one of my prayers for myself. Obedience. She had authentic food and we spent time with her family. Her son is a student at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado. We really enjoyed getting to know him and he is hopefully coming to visit Cameron and I at Auburn. We all sang songs and prayed together. It was a very sweet ending to a wonderful time in ministry with Irene as well as Benson, Susan, and Victoria. Victoria (Benson's daughter) spent her whole day making bracelets for us.

Tomorrow: SAFARI!! We are leaving here at 6 am. I am not sure if I will get to blog until Friday or Saturday because we fly out tomorrow. After the safari we are going to a Kazuri bead factory that provides many jobs for single mothers. I am pumped about their handmade jewelry. Eating at the Java House tomorrow so hopefully I can bring you guys some Kenyan coffee home. Apparently it is THE best.

Bad news: No cell phone anywhere and I may have pink eye. I don't feel bad but my eyes are itchy and somewhat oozy. Sorry if that is gross. Just statin' the facts as always.

Good news: We are trying to soak up our last night here and enjoy it. I cannot describe this experience in words. I am so thankful. Also, pictures will be up by the beginning of next week hopefully :)

Swahili word:
I can't think of any but kwaheri because it means good bye . I know I have already said it, but tomorrow I am saying "kwaheri Kenya"

It is well with my soul. I have loved the people here and they said that KEnya is our second home. I believe that. I hope to return to my second home again one day and would love for some of you to experience this with me next time.

Maybe you will hear back tomorrow. If not... Friday night or Saturday!

Pray: safety, Africa, the people here, and that we will be a good representation of what we learned.

Momma: If you are reading this thank you for your relentless encouraging posts. I can't wait to see the whole family soon. If you come pick me up I will probably need you to pack me some clothes and toiletries because everything is dirty/gone. If you have room my computer and camera cord would be great. If not.. "mizuri".

Thanks everyone for all your support! Keep reading for the next week or so! There will be more exciting things to come :)

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Beverly Hills

9 am: hopped in the van(or Nascar car) and zipped through oncoming traffic, over rusty bridges, and into a part of Africa I had not yet seen before. It was miles of mansions with their own personal security guards and electrified fences. We winded through hills where majestic Spanish baroque-style homes overlooked the valleys.

And then there is a gate.

We pulled up to the gate and our driver had to converse with the security guard about why we were coming into the area. He eventually let us through but seemed skeptical.

After driving under the gate we were immediately in a slum. A slum so conveniently located to the mansions that many of them overlooked the entire slum. It was like an ant farm. It seemed as if the guard were trying to contain the slum folk in their village so they would not corrupt the beautiful neighborhood next to it.

We pulled up to New Dawn Educational Center. It is a building constructed out of old steel crates. Great craftsmanship and completely sustainable!Yeah baby, way to go with the design of the structure. INDS. Sorry.

I got to hang with the sophomores today. We got about 5 minutes each to speak about school and life in general and then they asked us questions. I told them I was studying Interior Design and Architecture since they weren't really sure what Interior Design is. They thought it was fascinating. I thought that was encouraging.

One girl asked how we keep going even though we're girls. It hit me how strong prejudice is here. They are so attentive. They soaked in everything I said.
Some people asked me about drug abuse and if it is a problem in the US, if girls who get pregnant can still do school, if people really get sex changes, what to do if people tell them they won't get to go to a university because it's too hard, and what to do if their parents get upset with them when they study or read. I am afraid I am not the best representative of the United States, but I did what I could. I really liked talking to teenagers today.

Tomorrow we're going back to the school and will also be visiting a medical clinic in the slum there. I loved the school today. The teachers were so energetic and passionate about the kids.

Oh yeah! We ate corn and beans for lunch at school. it is what the school kids eat every day. That is normally the only meal they eat. I couldn't imagine.

We ate chinese tonight. I got wonton soup. Not sure what was in it. Don't ask, don't tell... right? It was GREAT food. Hopefully we won't get sick. I ATE CHICKEN!!! The picture of Mr. Chicken in the box is gradually fading from my mind.

Can't believe the time is almost up. Several of us were already planning on climbing Kilimanjaro next year:) I wish we really could.

Thanks for reading these ridiculously long posts. I appreciate all the support I have received from friends on Facebook inboxes and family on comments. Your encouragement and excitement is inspiring. I am so thankful to have people who will read paragraphs about what I do each day. You mean so much to me!

Dear parents,
so my cell phone is missing. I have looked everywhere. I am still looking. I figured blog bad news was better than real life bad news? AHHH sorry.

swahili word of the day:
mizuri: good, it's all good.

It's all good here. Good night from Kenya! We got shirts today that say hakuna matata. Mrs. Susan picked out a map of Kenya and wrapped it in a package that said "Lorine". I thought it was so special that she thought specifically about me. She is so great and I hope to be a hostess like her one day. Example: at the restaurant we were both in the wash room and she was washing her hands when I came in. She said "Ah you still my guests." She then proceeded to clean the entire Chinese restaurant bathroom before I used it. Servant? Yes.

Peace out!

Monday, June 7, 2010

Roughin' It

Today was a hard day. Just being honest.

We arrived at Emmanuel School to meet up with some people before heading to a high school. We sipped on some Kenyan tea (tastes alot like chai tea) and then hopped back into our vans.

We drove into the heart of Kibera wher the pavement quickly dissolves into a muddy and sewage filled road. It is a road almost too narrow for one car but cars drive going in both directions.

We drove very slowly and were warned to refrain from using our cameras. If you know me you know that a little adventure makes me want to do something more, but I took their advice (for the most part) and left with only a couple pictures. None did the slums any justice. I think I would have to capture the smell, hostile stares, dogs eating out of the sewage, and men picking through a mound of trash to fully describe it. There was one point where we were on top of a hill. I glanced down and it was a sea of tin roofs.

Sad thing is... I was almost numb to it. I guess seeing such shocking things happen everyday made me numb. I remember the first day I was speechless. Today I carried on a conversation with my friends as if I were driving down College Street. I realized this when one of my friends pointed out how numb we've become on the way out of the slum. I'll return to that later.

Anyway... people were fingertips away from our vehicle. If they wanted they could have pulled the window open. It was somewhat frightening to be on a narrow road stuck in mud with no escape. At one point the driver got out to fix a hole in the road. That was the only second I really felt vulnerable with the car running and an unlocked driver's seat.

We are safe and protected. There was a shield around our vehicle. As close as the men came to our cars they never touched it.

The children in the area only know how to say "How are you"? If you can imagine little voices singing "how ah- yoo... how ar- yoo...how ah-yoo" (sorry folks... that's the best dialect I can do via computer). It was a relief to see many children and older women happy to see us drive through after all the stares we experienced.

We pulled up to the school. The gate opened. In the midst of the compact slum was a wide open field with three little school houses. I can fully understand why school is a refuge for them. They live in tight quarters and never get breathing room.

I played soccer. Woops... football. Let's just say Laurin vs. the Kenya World Cup Team was quite an experience. I would love to get better at this sport. It was quite funny though. At one point I blocked my friend Ian and got pegged in the shoulder with the ball.

Too bad Ian was on my team. Hey, it's the hustle that counts.

Needless to say I mysteriously disappeared into a huddle of teenage girls. That was definitely more of my element. I met a girl named Laureen. The kids pulled her to me after I told them my name was laurin. She is in 9th grade (they call it Form One). She told me she wasn't much of an "athletician" and that she loved art. I knew I liked that girl. We had more alike than I thought. Don't worry.. I got a picture with the only Laurin-ish named girl in Kenya.

I asked them about life and school and they also asked me about schools in the USA. They were fascinated and talked about how much they long to go there one day. They were beautiful in their mustard colored sweaters and their navy skirts with knee high socks.

I don't really want to write this part but I feel that it is important. A tiny boy that was probably five came up behind me and grabbed my rearend. I didn't think much of it at first because 5 year olds think everything is funny. Then I thought about where these children come from and what kind of fathers they have. Their fathers are often absent and their mothers do not show them love. Some of the children today did not know how to be held. They let their legs dangle as some of my team members picked them up. Where are the leaders? Where are the people that instill respect in their lives? It occured to me that their teachers were probably the only ones around to teach character. These teachers are incredible. They are loving and patient. They give everything they have and sacrifice a great deal to give these kids some hope.

I am so sorry I am jumping around on this blog. It's just how my brain works.

Today my teammate Christina was talking to some girls and they brought up rape. They told her that it was common to be raped because of their uniforms. You see, when they only have one uniform they have to use daily they must take it off to wash. Men see this and it leads to rape sometimes. Another girl on my team was asked if people in the US get raped and if the US had slums. WOW. Fifteen minutes after meeting us and they feel comfortable to discuss rape. Rape is a big deal. I can't emphasize that. Most of the women we've come in contact with have been raped. What if 7/10 of my friends back at home had been raped? These girls need help emotionally, medically, and socially. I have a place in my heart for the young girls (and any women) who are victims of this crime that sucks the life and innocence out of innocent people. This hit hard today. Very hard. It's not ok.

Also, many 14 and 15 year old girls last year asked the team if people in the United States also get periods. They thought it was just Africans. I am sorry this is so brutally open, but it is real. It is so real. I saw it all today. It isn't fair to you if I sugar coat the way these people are living.

I didn't know all of those details until our sharing time tonight. I still have a hard time processing it.

After spending break time with the school kids today they sang us a song and we went our separate ways. We went through the slums again to finish painting the Mercy Medical Clinic from day one. Mrs. Winnie was so glad to see us come back and finish what we promised. We left Kibera at 4:30.

Dinner: I ate a burger. Well, part of it. Hey... that's a step! WOO HOO. Go meat! Still can't get that chicken out of my head. I think when I fly into Atlanta and see the Golden Arches and Chick Fil A cow that my anxieties will mysteriously vanish.

Almost everyone had a tough day today. I think we are tired. I also think we want so badly to help but we don't know exactly how in some situations. We all need rejuvenation tonight as we go to sleep and prayers that the devastation will not grow numb to us.

I think processing is going to take weeks...even months. We have been going non stop that it is hard to soak it all in at once.

For some comic relief I did my the world's ugliest pair of pajama pants yesterday. Just picture about 4 highlighters spilling on fabric in perfect vertical lines. The front side is orange. The back is purple. Barnum and Bailey: get ready.

Thank you friends and family for your prayers and for remembering us out here. Sometimes being in a different culture is thrilling. Other times it can be lonely and hard to take in (especially after seeing this today). I wouldn't say homesick though. I feel selfish being homesick. I am only homesick to get home in order to process and spend time with the Lord to listen to where I am called and how I am to serve. I do miss everyone though and am ready to get back to the things I have taken for granted.

Not going to lie... my selfish side is really yearning for some sushi, laundry detergent, Crest whitening strips (my teeth are turning yellow-er)... not like you really wanted to know that, and familiarity.

I need to quit rambling.

Today was hard. People shouldn't have to deal with these conditions everyday. THey do though.

It would be easy for them to be full of hate and bitterness. These kids have not one ounce of bitterness in their bones.

What is most inspiring is that they move forward and trust the Lord. Every song they sing is about their faith and hope. They do not dwell in their struggles but look forward to a new day and the fact that the Lord is refining them. I don't do that. I blame God. I forget Him. I sometimes act as if I can do it all on my own. Conviction of the day.

I want to be remembered as one who is obedient. If I am called to do something or go somewhere I want to obey. When I hear that voice I want to follow it. I normally sprint the other direction.

Prayer is most important. Prayer is strong, and they need it. They desperately need it. The only way, truth,life, hope, salvation, future, forgiveness,and wisdom comes from one place.

Things already better. Things already better. When the Lord is on the throne things already better.

Thanks for listening to me when I am dancing, crying, laughing, struggling, stumbling, and rejoicing. This is a "safari" in itself. I am glad that I have felt all the above.

pray for everyone on our team. I think we have all really learned a great deal about ourselves today.

Safari=journey

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Can I get an AMEN!?!

Today was church at Benson's. It was great. No televisions and no upholstered pews...just a wooden structure with a communion table, wooden benches, and a microphone. The simplicity of it all was beautiful. If I closed my eyes it would have sounded like a glimpse of what Heaven might be like. Every tongue and tribe and nation singing to the same God and giving all glory to Him alone.

I think it reminded me what a church should look like and how I have had a distorted perception that churches need a rockin' band and a great speaker to be influential.

The people were singing at the top of their lungs. Some way off pitch and some in complete harmony. Nevertheless they were singing joyful songs to the Lord and were not concerned with who was listening. We danced, clapped, and attempted singing out of an old Swahili hymnal. We sang "nothing but the blood" in Swahili today. It was cool to recognize the tune. We took communion with the church and that was also very neat. The thought that these people have unconditional faith in the midst of all their circumstances is convicting. Some people on our team video taped it. I think you had to be there to fully feel the Spirit in the room as we all sang together. The video may give a hint of an idea.

I looked out the window (more like an opening in the wall) after a bug almost found its home in my ear. To my surprise I saw a group of men sitting on the other side of the fence facing the chapel. It was evident that they were trying to hear the Word of the Lord. Thanks, bug. If it weren't for you I wouldn't have seen that beautiful picture of people desperate for the Lord.

After that we ate at Susan and Benson's house in Nairobi. Their 22 year old daughter made a great meal for us (pasta,mashed potatoes, stew, veggies). Yes, I actually ate the meatballs. It was the first piece of meat I have eaten since my car ride with Mr. Chicken and my encounter with Benson's goats. That's a step. It was such a great meal.

We rushed out of their town to head back to the market next to our hotel. There are about fifty umbrellas with beads, jewelry, weapons, clothes, art, and everything else in between. What a rush! We had a buddy that we had to stick with, so Sarah and I stuck together and learned some smooth business skills. People would say "6,000 shillings." I would say "Eh.... I can only do 500." "Too low. Must come up. Since you student I work with you." "I'm sorry." As we proceeded to walk away they chased after us and gave it to us for our price. I learned to have a back bone today. Daddy you would be so proud.

If I told you the things I purchased it might ruin it. I will tell you when I give my family their gifts.

I will tell you that my favorite purchase today was a drum. I think it will come in handy at Auburn next year. Pretty stoked about it.

We just sang the Lion King sound track and they also forced me to dance some hip hop. Apparently I look really goofy. Hey, if it brings happiness to people then bring it on. Don't worry... that black mail dance video is bound to show up on Facebook. Yikes.

Tomorrow we are going back to the slums to a high school and to paint. The leaders said there was a 35 ish year old man last year that was at the high school because he yearned for an education. He wore the uniform and sat in class with all the teenagers just because he knew how much it could change his life.

Tuesday and Wednesday we will be going to a place called New Dawn. I honestly don't know what we are doing except teaching the girls and guys separately about how to be safe and how to take care of themselves.

What a whirlwind of a week! I am so glad to be here! Can I stay?

There is a 21 year old girl from Tennessee named Katie Davis that came on a mission trip to Africa recently. She never came back. She is living somewhere here by herself and has taken over ten girls under her wing. They all stay with her.

Not to worry, I am not called to this at this point in life. The thought of adoption has really been put on my heart though. I have a long time to pray about that one.

It is time for me to take action though. I am praying about what that means (money, time, talent) for me specifically. I honestly never really cared to help people in need until now. I am still disgustingly full of selfishness (just shootin' ya straight) but giving really is the only was to cure that.

I know sometimes the words I say sound depressing, but Africa is full of heart. They love with all they have (even us "muzungus" that they have never seen before). That is a lesson in itself: receive nothing and still love with everything. I don't think I have ever EVER known what this was like. I am praying that my heart of stone will melt after experiencing these people.

They need our prayers.

It is amazing how such a little can help them so much. Just a few boxes of pencils and notebooks would help Emmanuel school for a whole year. Some money towards clean water would prevent thousands of water-born illnesses from happening. Sponsoring just one child with an education or a uniform could give them the education they need to turn from the slums filled with aggression, crime, disease, and loss of hope. Just a little money towards the orphans in Kitui could provide the kids with meals so they don't have to starve for three days.

In all honestly, we need their prayers, too. They trust God will provide... and He does! Their faith is unshakable. Their prayers are genuine and meant for noone but the Lord. What a conviction directed towards Laurin Sanders today. My faith is conditional and my trust probably wouldn't pass a trust fall test most days.

Can I please be on a Kenyan's prayer list?

Word of the day:
Yesu: Jesus

Peace out, yall! (getting made fun of my the day for using the slang of yall) :) Kenyans have no idea what "yall" is. CULTURE SHOCK! :)

Have a lovely day! Night time for us

Saturday, June 5, 2010

He Sugars My Tea

"I wond-a why... I won-da why... I wond-a why Jesus is good to me. He suga-s my tea and he butta-s my bread. I wonda why Jesus is good to me. I wonda why I wonda why I wonder why satan is bad for me. He pours out my tea and he sits on my bread I wonder why satan is bad for me." -- all the kids (i tried to do it in their voice)

Today we went back into Kibera slums to Emmanuel School. The Compassion International kids come there every Saturday for school. There were around 200 kids I think. I was in a group with Catherine, Cameron, Sam, Cassidi, Blake, and Stephanie. We went to one of the classrooms to observe. The teacher had another plan. Five minutes later we stood before the class of 40 9-11 year olds teaching them all we knew about nutrition. SURPRISE! Good thing two of us took nutrition at Auburn this semester. The teacher was M.I.A. for a while. We had a break and she continued talking about a balanced diet. Sad this is, these children do not get any protein. They can't afford meat. I sat next to three giggly little girls on the front row. They were smart and attentive. They all shared a notebook to take notes in because the school doesn't have enough notebooks. These are just lined paper composition books I am talking about. They also passed out pencils and took them up when class was over.

Anyway, my little girl name Viellnic (I couldn't understand/can't spell) opened her book up. I glanced down at the first page she opened. It was a lesson on HIV/AIDS in detail. Then she flipped back. Another section on Aids. She flipped back again and there was yet another. The thought that these lessons were everyday typical classroom lectures was eye-opening. A nine year old learning how to keep themselves safe from STDs (that is normally from assault or rape)... and the thought that some of them have already acquired diseases. Wow.

We had a break. It was similar to recess. Cameron was a hit with the bubbles. Bill almost got tackled while bringing balloons outside. I am normally one of the ones who runs around and partakes in these activities. Today for me was not a dance party. The little girl I sat next to in class stuck with me and never let go of my arm. She leaned on me for and hour as we walked around. Eventually two little girls fell asleep on my lap in the middle of recess on the middle of the field.

That was sweet to me but very sad. They never see their parents. They walk home from school to a 10x10 tin/mud/wood hut. They are packed together in the slums where they can hear everything their neighbors are doing. The slum houses are priced differently. Some have sewage running through them and those are cheaper. The ones closest to the tall electric wired fence are the most well-off(if well off exists).

Let me just describe once again how dangerous this place is. We are not to take pictures, walk around, wear any jewelry or bags, and we have to leave at 4:30. We are in the good part. They won't even let us into the heart of Kibera. People we pass in the van stare at us. Some with a smile but many with a look of disgust and hatred. It is sometimes frightening.

What's even more frightening is the fact that some of the two year olds at school today were going to walk home alone and sit at home alone. You wouldn't even want your 16 year old son to be alone in this place.

The kids in Kibera are different from Kitui. Kibera feels like inner city whereas Kitui is just the middle of the country. The attitudes reflected this. The kids were more aggressive and demanding. After all, they must be aggressive to survive.

On a happy note our class brought down the house with their singing and dance moves. I caught a bit on video. Boy can they sing! We sang "happy today", "mambo sawa", "he sugars my tea" "this little light of mine," and some that were pure kiswahili. I loved it. THey are so spirited and sing with all their hearts. I honestly feel that music,dancing, and education are their relief and comfort.

Reagan is a 20 year old Kenyan who grew up an orphan. He helped us translate and interact in the classroom. You wouldn't believe how strong his spirit is. He is always smiling. When I first met him he said,"My name is Reagan. Like Ronald Reagan. Your President who served from 1981 to 1989." That was embarrassing. He knows more about Ronald Reagan than a US citizen from birth. He was funny and loved the children. They love him back. I was very impressed with his spirit.

I took a nap today. YES! I love naps. When I woke up it was time for dinner. Pizza! We loved sitting around laughing together. Later I learned some dance moves from my Canadian friend. Failed miserably. That was caught on video. It is bound to back fire as black mail.

To Cameron's family: We have decided she is the next Disney princess and we love her so much.

To my family: Miss you. Love you. Thanks for all the posts friends and family have sent. They have been so encouraging. I don't know how to respond back though.

Tomorrow we are going to Benson's church. Can't wait to hear the acapella gospel music.

We are going to a market after that to bargain some cool authentic African crafts.

Well folks, my eyes are heavy and I am going to bed. Thanks for reading!

But wait! One more thing!! Kenyan kids LOVE sunglasses. They took mine and tried them on. The other kids would come look to see their reflection because it gave them bug eyes. If I ever return here (which I want to) I am packing a suitcase full of sunglasses and balloons.

We donated the rest of the unused art supplies to the teachers today. They were blown away. They couldn't believe that they have more supplies. I wish I could have seen their faces! If you had seen the classroom supplies it would make sense. They had NOTHING.

I have no swahili words that I can manage to spell. So here are some funny sayings they say:

"Can you manage"
"Mind your head" while getting out of the car
"to let" to rent an apartment
"how are you" when they have nothing else in english to say.. but many of them do not know how to respond when you answer.
Their accents are wonderful. Still trying to master it before you see us at ATL airport.

Pray for these kids, their teachers, and that they will get support and love they need to get out of the slum!

Pray for us,too.

Loving every minute of this!! So happy to be here.

Off to the mosquito nets I go. I have great roommates (Cameron and Sarah) and it has been fun living with them!

Friday, June 4, 2010

Dancing with a Kenyan

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Well, it wasn't exactly a tribal dance or anything.

It was with a teeny tiny girl from a nursery in here blue school uniform.

"da-da-da-da clap. da-da-da-da clap." And the beat went on for about thirty minutes.

She was rockin' that beat and I was trying to keep up.

Today we went to Emmanuel School, a vocational school that Mocha Club supports. They had classes for catering, fashion, computers, beauty, and nursery to name a few. I chose to do to fashion and design to get in touch with my long lost artistic side. I got to tie die (Kenyans say tie and die) a piece of canvas. I made it say "hope for Kenya." One lady's said "Obama." If you didn't know this... his family is from Kenya and all the Kenyans get excited all over again about him whenever they learn that we are from the States. Anyways... it was really wonderful seeing the women learning to sew clothing. Ian, a guy on our trip, got stuck going to beauty school. Two hours later he leaves beauty school with a set of extensions and corn rows in his hair.

The significance of this is the location. We were in the middle of the Kibera slum as I have talked about a few times before. A man named Raphael explained a little more to us today. He said that it is absolutely unsafe after 8pm there and that any of us would be lucky to survive a night. Many children acquire STDS at a young age. Many teens have lost hope and wonder if God really cares. Mocha Club, Ellie's Run for Africa, and African Leadership teamed together to build this school because education is the only practical way to get out of the slums. I met Naomi, a 30 yr old who works at the school, and she told me her story about the struggles of growing up in Kibera. In 2007 there were post-election riots. It was brutal to the point where they do not tell us much detail about it. All we really know is that as whites we would have never been safe 3 short years ago.

Many people are turning to Islam for their faith here. It is growing quickly in Kibera.

Addition from yesterday:

I looked at my journal last night after blogging and on the first page I wrote Jeremiah 33:3 back in March. Wednesday while on the bus Mrs. Susan (our African mommy) out of the blue said, "Call to me and I will answer you and will show you great and hidden things that you did not know."

I thought it was really cool that right next to my "pray for Kenya" page in my journal was that verse... and then months later while in Kenya the Lord reminded me of that verse through her.

Also...things from Kitui still weigh heavy on my heart. If you didn't read yesterday\s blog I hope you can manage some time to read a novel :)

But really, those three days were life changing.

Today was a ray of sunshine. Dancing with those little children and later enhoying some tea outside our hotel was relaxing and peaceful.

Swahili word of the week:
Sawa: It's ok
Asanti Sana: Thank you very much
Karibu: welcome

ps. We have been lookin' like a fool with our Swahili. Sometimes we hear giggles as people walk off. bring it. It is all part of the fun

pss. Toilets in Kenya have a mind of their own

psss. I have never had more rice in my entire life.

I LOVE AFRICA!!!!!!

That's all I have for today. Yesterday was so intense that we all needed a bit of rejuvenation.

"Things already better. Things already better. When the Lord is on the throne things already better." This is a song the orphans sang yesterday in Kitui. Don't ask me to do the accent. I have been informed that my accent sounds Chinese. It'll get better.

Family: I found "Soul Sanders." He was the boy on the hill in the last post. The one who is raised by a nineteen year old.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Off the Beaten Path

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JAMBO JAMBO JAMBO!

So it's been a couple days since I have updated on my experiences. It's because we journeyed three/four hours away on a dirt road where there is nothing. No running water. No showers. No electricity. No air.

On the other hand... there IS Coca-Cola. Beautiful faces. Singing. Dancing. Home- cookin'. I can't wait to tell you about our adventure to Kitui.

It all began as we hopped onto 3 vans and headed outside the city limits. One second I saw tall buildings and the next second I saw a camel with water jugs strapped to either side.

We arrived safely... but we don't know how :) A few bumpy rides (potholes, rocks, trees) and quite a few window visits from people selling vegetables made for a great adventure.

The second we got there the children were singing on the side of the road and the grandparents greeted us with warm hugs. "I am happy today. so happy. In Jesus name i am happy..... theplace to be happy is here. The time to be happy is now. The way to be happy is to make someone happy and to bring a little Heaven down here."

I will never be able to explain to you that moment... but it was incredible. The grandparents are often the caretakers of these children who have lost both parents (mainly to AIDS). Stick with me because I am going to get to that part.

That day we got to enjoy their spirits. We brought balloons. It was the most beautiful thing to see a rainbow of balloons in the air as the children played with sheer joy on their faces. One little girl came and sat in my lap for about 45 min. She looked at her hands as she played with my hands. She knew we were different colors and it took a second for her to process. After all, us "muzungas" are aliens. Many have never seen whites. She then looked up and smiled. That taught be so much to see her smiling at our differences. That day we got to listen to the grandparents about their struggles providing for many grandchildren without any income and with many health issues. For example: one single handedly caring for six grandchildren, one with a serious goiter, and one woman who just took in a child for a while because the child had ABSOLUTELY no family member left.

I spent the night at the home of a family there. Six girls and I really enjoyed the cultural experience and hospitality of a real African family. We washed the vegetables outside from their own garden. We ate their own chickens that they raised and killed for us (BLEHHH... I have had a hard time eating meat this week). We went to the restroom in outhouses where a tiny hole in the cement goes down so far it echoes. Sorry I am just being honest. We washed off with a bucket of water. Their homestead had many crops and many rows of maize. The maize (corn) at night sounded eerie just like the movies. But hey, in the morning it sure tasted good.

They were so great to welcome us into their home. Susan was our "mom" and she kept feeding us rice until we almost exploded. It reminded me of a Greek woman. Four of us stayed in a room together. One got very sick at night, one talked in her sleep, and I had a dream that someone was climbing into my bed. Very interesting night to say the least!! The rooster woke us up bright and early. That really is their alarm clock. We woke up and ate maize grown on their homestead like I was just telling you. It was raw and ORGANIC (daddy... that was for you). IT WAS AWESOME!

Typical meals included rice, beans, chicken, potatoes, and an orange. You would not believe the amount the kids ate. It was funny at first but then heartbreaking as we remembered that this may be their only meal for a while.

DISCLAIMER: the rest of this message is not easy to type, and I honestly hope it isn't to read. I hope that these words will not just be stories but will encourage those reading to pray and take action.

Day one in Kitui:

I learned that many orphans, especially girls, have been victims of rape and molestation by family members. Mrs. Susan said she knew of four at the moment that had faced this before but others have in the past. 4 is a huge number considering none are older than 14 and there are only about 30 kids there. Also, in Kibera (the first slum from last post) about 50% of children are sexually assaulted.

On a lighter note I have never seen such joyous faces singing to the Lord. Their innocence and loving spirits will never leave my mind. Their faith is so huge. Why is mine so small when I am provided two loving parents and supportive family members, food without a worry, a home, health, and protection. Those are just the basics. It made me realize that those verses are true about how difficult it is for those who are rich to inherit the Kingdom. America... We are ALL rich.

I cannot wait to show you all pictures! They are the most beautiful people you will ever see.

Day Two:

ARTS AND CRAFTS! They loved every minute of it. Face painting, masks, tambourines, painting, and paper airplanes all made for many giggles. I was a face painter. I gave the children a mirror to see their faces. They were captivated by their faces. I honestly do not know if they have seen themselves many times before. One boy looked at the pictures I brought of family and friends. I got a picture of him looking at a picture of my brother and 3 of his friends at a basball game. It hit home that this little boy has never seen a baseball bat and has never had a daddy to take him outside to play catch.

We ate lunch with the kids and after that we split into groups to travel to some homes of the orphans. Let me explain. We were not in an orphanage but moreso a daycare/counseling/school for them. They have caretakers but the caretakers are not their parents.

The first few homes we went to were friends, aunts, and grandmothers who were the caretakers. The next was a very old grandmother who could hardly walk much less care for a young boy alone. She had nothing but a mud hut. She still offered us all the oranges she had. WOW... would I offer up everything I had to complete strangers while starving? What a servant and woman of faith.

As we were on the way we came across a little market to grab cokes. We all got one and so did our kids. I only had a sip because I am not a big coke drinker like my mom. I looked next to me and the boy had guzzled his. I then handed him mine and he tried to get me to pour it into his bottle. Fail. Then I tried to hand it to him again. As we pulled up to his homestead he finally took it and poured it down his throat. That was probably all he had the rest of the evening besides corn.

This last home we visited made this whole trip worth it. Let me describe it as best I can. It may be long winded. Sorry :)

We pull up on the side of the road and walk down a dirt path. We began walking and noticed we were accumulating a group of small children following behind us. Eventually twenty children were walking behind me. They were giggling just like the munchkins on the Wizard of Oz. My friend Mike turned around and shouted "boo!" At first they had the look of terror as they leaped over eachother and into the bushes. Then the laughing continued and they followed us again. About a mile passed and we arrived at a small dirt structure on top of a hill. I looked down and there were about five children sitting on a mat resting in the shade. This was the boys' home. I asked where the caretaker was and the leader said that he was at school. "How old is he?" I asked. "The caretaker is nineteen." He said.

Nineteen years old taking care of about five children. Let me add that two of these children were no more than a year old. Kilu, the boy we dropped off, was responsible for providing food for them. He was about nine. These children are being raised by a teenager. They were malnourished and sitting there all alone. I wanted to take all of my clothes off of my back and wrap them in something. I also wanted to bring them all home.

Leaving that home was the hardest thing I have ever had to do in my life. Part of my heart is still on that hill. I want so badly to find a way to help that family specifically.

Do not let that story be a story. Let that sink in. What if we were nineteen and responsible for tiny children, school, providing food, and just surviving in general. These people need our prayers first and foremost. They also need food, families, and education.

On a lighter note our little munchkins followed us back to the car. I got a great video of them singing. Did I mention they love cameras?

We hopped in the van and heard a chicken screaching at a home next to us. A few minutes pass and Jemima is carrying the chicken in the car. That chicken was in a box... for a second. It got so flustered that it busted out of the box and gave us a death stare. I thought I was going to be attacked by a chicken. It was absolutely hilarious...especially the fact that we were bringing the live chicken back for our dinner. I did not eat chicken that night. I think I like the idea of frozen chicken instead of fresh chicken now. :) :)

We got back today after 5 hours of bumpy roads. I tried beet root juice today. Not my cup of tea. We just got back from dinner. I ate a quesadilla. WOO HOO for Americanized Mexican in Kenya.

I got a little sick to my stomach today, but the meds are doing just fine. We are using mosquto nets in our hotel. It looks like we are on a honeymoon or something.

I am so thankful for all of your prayers. Thanks for reading this! I know it is long, but every detail was important.

Tomorrow we are going back to Kibera. We will visit a vocational school there. When we were there the other day we were right next to a raid. Apparently a boy brought the Korran (spelling?? ... Muslim book) to school. The teacher was upset about that and made him hit it seven times. Then the Islamic community in the area came and it caused an uproar. We thought it was a game of soccer, but we were wrong. That isn't to scare you but it is just showing you that this place is really intense.

I prayed for adventure and for something to hit my stubborn heart hard enough for me to feel,pray, and take action for these people. Prayers answered.

What a wonderful experience. The people I am here with are so funny but also relatable. We have laughed and cried together so much already. I am loving this. Every minute counts.

Until tomorrow!!!

Monday, May 31, 2010

a whole new world

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Last night did not feel like Africa. It felt like a new place. A big city in a land I had never known. A land where giraffe roam in the mornings near the airport and serengeti trees line the streets. A land where gasoline is $1.22 in US money and a place where being white was an absolute minority. Even though this was all new... it did not feel like the Africa I had always heard about.

Until this morning.

A short 5 minutes away from Nairobi "city in the sun"... a prominent and industrial metropolitan area that is the biggest city in most of East Africa... was a slum called Kibera. We loaded up the vans and piled in. Immediately the city ended. No tall buildings. No gas stations. No business people. No construction. No running water. No electricity. We were in the slums.

I am not trying to be dramatic or emotional. This is all purely true.

Tears filled my eyes as we entered the slums. The trash is piled along the side of the streets. Every bit of their trash.. even toxic.. is thrown on the street. Chickens are in the trash. Later those will probably be cooked and eaten. Sewage is on either side of the road. There is no running water. Women carry large jugs on their head about the size of a gatorade cooler for a football game. Children roam the streets alone. Many school children walk together hand in hand, but some children sat alone on the side of the road. Military men stand outside with machine guns. The houses are 10 ft. by 10 ft. and house about 5 people. About 100 people have to share the same outhouse.

At first you think it is just one row of tin shacks with little markets inside of them. Vegetables, shoes, hanging dead animals for meat, drinks, and clothing are sold in the markets. Then you look up.

The shacks go back for atleast a mile. Thousands of people living in this. I am in complete and total shock.

As our vans drove past the school children on the way to park we heard them say "muzunga". That is what they call white people. Our vans parked. Immediately we saw the children sprinting around the corner. They helped us out of the car and gave us huge hugs. Their joy and hope in the midst of devastation brings me chills... and I will never forget that moment.

We painted a medical clinic today. It was for a nurse winnie that Mocha Club supports. She said her typical day treatments were malaria, typhoid, mumps, septic wounds,diharrea, fever, and cuts. Can you imagine? Just a typical nurse's clinic that only treats the school children deals with these deadly diseases daily. We painted her clinic blue. That bright color seemed to enlighten us all and symbolized hope for these children.

We left to eat lunch. We ate at a really nice restaurant called Java House. It was really interesting to switch from slum to that within then minutes. I met missionaries who are building a village for AIDS orphans in Tanzania. I really feel like that would be something I would love to do some day. They have only built 3 of the thirty cottages of their village.

I saw a woman wearing TOMS shoes today.

I also heard the intercom for the Islamic believers to pray towards Mecca. I heard a man leading a prayer for the Muslims in Kibera.

WHAT A DAY... and it is only 6:00 day one. I am thankful, inspired, and grateful. I am disgusted with myself to be honest.

IF MY PARENTS ARE READING THIS: My email inbox is full so I cannot send out emails. I wanted to send you some but it would take forever to delete. I love you so much. Thank you for encouraging me and giving me this experience. I am learning so much more than I ever thought I would. I hope that one day our whole family can experience this together. It is changing my view of the world and it is only the start. I miss you. Love you. Thank you! Please call tiffany if you need me.

Keep checking in!!!!

Word:
"mizunga" (unsure of spelling) white people
lion= simba
kwaheri= good bye

prayers: that this will not be an experience. That this will bring me to my knees and change me.

For Benson, our leader. He is taking us into Kitui tomorrow. It is about 3 hours away. We will be with the orphans there.

For the people of Kibera. That the children will be provided with the education and health they need to get out of the slums,

THANKS!

Sunday, May 30, 2010

leaving on a jet plane... JAMBO KENYA

WE ARE HERE SAFE AND SOUND! Hallelujah. The whole gang is here at our hotel about to go to bed for the night. Here it is eleven pm.. you guys just got out of church!

Here is a brief summary of our travels:

Friday--rode with the parents to Atlanta. Had an awesome meal at Fogo de Chao. I am so thankful for their support and enthusiasm about this opportunity.

Saturday--flew to DC. Sat with Cameron for four hours while waiting to check our bags in for British Airways. We got to choose seats. Our plane was a 747 400 so it was a double decker. Ofcourse I asked for usptairs. The man looked at me and basically said there was no way possible unless I was ready to fork out $10,000 one way. Nevertheless we took regular seats in the back. When we met up with our team at the gate we all hopped in the massive plane to realize we were the majority of the passengers... and there are only twenty of us! I took a whole row of five seats to myself and slept across them. The flight attendants (mark and andrew from Scotland) hung out with us and showed us card tricks. It kept the 6 hr flight interesting. Hey... this British Airway strike helped us out... each of us had our own row!
--we arrived 6:30 this morning (London time). In London I bought some strange ginger detox juice and some other juice that had no "nasties"... no chemicals. WOOHOO organic.

Sunday-- Flew out to Nairobi around 10:40. Got here 9:40 pm Kenya time. Customs and everything went very well. We hopped in our bus and rode through town with our driver named Felix. He took us to grab PIZZA. First African meal... cheese pizza. The people here are so hospitable and eager to love on us. Cameron met the most wonderful Kenyan women on the plane. They taught her all about culture and language. She is my roommate so she will teach me tonight. War Eagle. We are staying at a lovely place called "gracia house" and we have mosquito net canopies. I am pretty stoked about those. a- because they look awesome b- there are MASSIVE mosquitos.

Tomorrow we will be up and running around 8. We will be in Nairobi tomorrow and then the slums the next few days. If you don't see any posts for a few days... don't give up on us!!

Swahili words:
twiga-- giraffe
asanti--thank you

prayers: to break us

Thursday, May 27, 2010

planes, trains, and automobiles

So you know how I was telling you about the British Airways strike? They figured it out for us! GOD IS GOOD!

This was what Cameron and I were going to have to do:

drive to Atlanta, fly to DC, get a taxi from Dulles airport in DC to the Reagan in DC,fly to JFK in NYC, fly to London, and then fly to Nairobi.

The thought of two college girls navigating through 5 airports and the Capitol of the USA in one day alone would have been an exhilarating and most likely hilarious adventure. Lots of laughter, lots of food, lots of "how do you get to terminal a", and lots of hustlin' to baggage claim.

I am a little sad that we don't get to laugh about this travel experience, but a shorter flight time is rockin'.

Now we just go straight to DC to London (hoping to sneak out of airport to say hi to Big Ben and sing a Beatles song). What a blessing! We will arrive in Nairobi May 30. There's no tellin' how many peanut bags and ginger ale cans will be emptied by then. For some reason ginger ale is better on an airplane.

I am sitting in my grandparents house after a big day of packing. They have been so great to help out. My mom is driving up here and my dad is already working in the Ham, so my parents and I will leave tomorrow for Atlanta.

I am attempting to make headbands that Amanda Claire taught me how to do so I can wear some and give some to the girls. AC, praying for your summer at Winnshape!

Swahli words (i forgot on the last post)
1. Jambo= hello
2. Hakuna Matata= No Problem ("it's a problem free... philosophy..." get it?)

Prayers: There is a woman who runs a school/day care for orphans in Kitui. I do not know her name yet, but I will get back with you. She has selflessly given and poured into these children. It's on my heart to lift her up today!

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

T- 3 DAYS!

Friday we're driving up to Atlanta (camilla... FOOD) and Saturday is the BIG day.

ONE problem: British Airways went on strike! We are praying and trusting that they can figure this out.. We are supposed to board that airline to London. If something doesn't work out they will probably re-route us.

Watch the video I posted from the other day! It is incredible.

This is a brief summary of what we'll be doing exactly:
Day 1-3ish: Driving 3 hours to a slum in Kitui. There we will be working at an orphanage. The conditions in this area are harsh. The sewage lines the streets and homes are scraps stuck together of various materials. Many children have lost parents due to disease, and many are suffering from disease also.

Day 3ish-6ish: Traveling back to Nairobi to a slum called Kibera. There we will be working with a vocational school. This teaches older kids and adults how to master certain trades so that they can provide an income for their family. Sunday we will go to church with them.

Day 7ish- the end: We will be with a high school. There is a bead and jewelry place nearby that provide many jobs for the women. I cannot wait to see (and purchase) their handmade jewelry. We will also be talking with girls about hygiene and how to protect themselves better since the AIDS epidemic is highly prevalent there.

Last day: SAFARI!

Nothing else is really new. I started my job today, but I don't really start working until I return from Kenya. I LOVE MY JOB!

Zac is begging me to adopt a 16 year old boy from Kenya so he can have a brother that can go to school with him when we move to Birmingham. He was going to nickname him "Soul." Didn't sound like a bad idea to me.

Thank you friends for all of your encouraging messages and texts. I Love you! What a blessing you are.

ps..Laurel,Anna,Morgan, and Laura Langley start their adventure today to Jackson Hole. Enjoy the journey!

Again... WATCH THE VIDEO!! (scroll down to last post)

Monday, May 24, 2010

"pre-gaming"

Down to the final stretch and about to burst with excitement!

We ran around town this week gathering the last minute things I needed for the trip (art supplies for the schools and orphanages, clothes that are appropriate for their culture, and...... pepto bismol... lots of it) :) I felt bad for my family and Nick as we swarmed through the Walmart aisles.

As we were shopping at walmart my mom and grandmother were in the food section looking for snacks. They kept urging me to get FiberOne and Nutrigrain bars. I quickly responded, "I'm going to Africa... I don't think I will need any fiber." Sorry.. maybe that is t.m.i

Every week we have had a teleconference with our team members. It's rather strange that we have never seen each other before. I guess that'll be interesting finding everyone in the airport. But hey... it adds to the adventure! Bring it.

May 29th. I can't help but dance in circles around the kitchen because in one week we will experience joyous souls dancing with hope in the midst of famine, disease, and poverty. Humbling? absolutely.

Swahili word of the day: Rafiki=Friend

Prayers: Safe and smooth travels

Africa Trip from mike lewis on Vimeo.

Monday, April 12, 2010

In the beginning...