Here is Nala checking out her new view:
Even though she can be naughty, she is awfully cute and lovable at times...
Monday, April 30, 2012
Thankful for Our Host
We are so thankful to Gordon for hosting us so graciously, especially since we have Nala who can be challenging. It has been difficult to keep a high energy puppy in a small apartment on the 7th floor. She is used to being outside a lot and I think is getting bored here. That results in her being naughty. Here is the view from Gordon's balcony:
Here is Nala checking out her new view:
Even though she can be naughty, she is awfully cute and lovable at times...
Here is Nala checking out her new view:
Even though she can be naughty, she is awfully cute and lovable at times...
Delayed in Nairobi
Well, it's Tuesday morning as I write this and we are still in Nairobi. We arrived here Sunday night and were supposed to be in Korogwe Monday night. We have experienced a series of road blocks that have kept us here longer than expected. The first issue was with the car we hired. The owner was supposed to bring the car on Sunday night so we could leave early on Monday. Late Sunday night, he called and said he wasn't able to do bring the car that night and would bring it by 10:30 the next morning. 10:30 Kenyan time is really an hour or two later. Korogwe is 9 hours away from Nairobi plus the time at the border and if we didn't leave until 12:00 or so, we wouldn't make it to Korogwe before dark meaning we would have to stay the night in Moshi and incur hotel expenses.
Gordon quickly began working on plan B: Find another vehicle. He made a few calls and found someone with a car we could use. It was more expensive than the original car we hired, but we didn't have a choice. After some discussion, we decided we should delay our leaving by one day. That would give us time to sort out the car issue and deal with our other potential roadbolck - Nala's paperwork.
To cross the border with Nala, we need her vaccination records, a health certificate from a vet and transport documents from the Ministry of Livestock. The vaccination records were no problem. We have had that since we got her. George went to get the health certificate from the vet we used in Kisumu and he said we would have to pay $250 to get it. That is extortion and highway robbery. We of course could not afford that and wouldn't pay it if we could because that is outrageous and wrong. George then went to the Ministry of Livestock in Kisumu who told him we needed a letter from Tanzania allowing us to bring the dog. We spoke to a few people in Tanzania (including two vets) who said that letter doesn't exist. Tanzania needs the health certificate and vaccination records only. They suspected people here were just trying to get money from us. Not knowing what to do, George went back to the Ministry of Livestock who told him he would have to go to Nairobi to get the health certificate and other papers.
Our plan was to go to the Ministry of Livestock in Nairobi Monday morning when they opened, get the papers and leave from there for the border. When George got there, he was given the run around. They told him he had to get a letter from Tanzania and a health certificate from a vet. He found a vet who said the only Health Certificate he knows of is on the back of the vaccination record (which we have). He didn't have another letter to give us. However, if we wrote a letter, he would be willing to stamp it for us. So, George had to race back to where I was (at Gordon's house with Nala) so I could type a letter for the vet to stamp. Time was becoming a problem now. George had to get the letter to the vet and go back to the ministry of livestock before three. By the time he got the letter from the vet, the ministry was closed. The worst part of that is Tuesday is a Kenyan holiday and all government offices will be closed. The transport docs could not be obtained on Tuesday. It would have to be Wednesday at the earliest.
Meanwhile, the owner of the original car we hired said he couldn't get the car to us on Monday at all, but it would have to be Tuesday. We decided we can't rely on this guy and decided to go with the second guy Gordon found. The next problem: getting our money back from the first guy. We had already paid for the car and needed that money to pay for the second. We are still waiting to get the money back.
After re-evaluating our situation Monday evening, we decided we would delay until Wednesday. We met with the owner of the second car and paid a deposit. Now the plan is to get the car on Tuesday night, pack and leave the house early on Wednesday, go to the ministry of livestock when they open at 8:00 and try to get the transport docs. Once we get those, we will leave for Tanzania.
We have been talking with a vet in Tanzania (again who has never heard of what is being requested of us) who may be able to get a letter for us. I sent him the vaccination records, the health certificate and a sample letter for a vet to stamp and he is going to try to get us something today.
This whole experience has been exhausting and discouraging. However, we know the Lord has allowed these things to happen this way for a reason so we are trusting Him. For some reason we were not supposed to travel on Monday or Tuesday. We know God knows best and we, therefore, are finding peace in that.
Please pray that we will be able to get the letter from the vet in Tanzania, that the car shows up Tuesday evening, that we get our money back from the first car guy, that we get the transport docs for Nala and that we are able to leave early on Wednesday for Korogwe.
Thank you for your prayers. We know we are not alone in this.
Gordon quickly began working on plan B: Find another vehicle. He made a few calls and found someone with a car we could use. It was more expensive than the original car we hired, but we didn't have a choice. After some discussion, we decided we should delay our leaving by one day. That would give us time to sort out the car issue and deal with our other potential roadbolck - Nala's paperwork.
To cross the border with Nala, we need her vaccination records, a health certificate from a vet and transport documents from the Ministry of Livestock. The vaccination records were no problem. We have had that since we got her. George went to get the health certificate from the vet we used in Kisumu and he said we would have to pay $250 to get it. That is extortion and highway robbery. We of course could not afford that and wouldn't pay it if we could because that is outrageous and wrong. George then went to the Ministry of Livestock in Kisumu who told him we needed a letter from Tanzania allowing us to bring the dog. We spoke to a few people in Tanzania (including two vets) who said that letter doesn't exist. Tanzania needs the health certificate and vaccination records only. They suspected people here were just trying to get money from us. Not knowing what to do, George went back to the Ministry of Livestock who told him he would have to go to Nairobi to get the health certificate and other papers.
Our plan was to go to the Ministry of Livestock in Nairobi Monday morning when they opened, get the papers and leave from there for the border. When George got there, he was given the run around. They told him he had to get a letter from Tanzania and a health certificate from a vet. He found a vet who said the only Health Certificate he knows of is on the back of the vaccination record (which we have). He didn't have another letter to give us. However, if we wrote a letter, he would be willing to stamp it for us. So, George had to race back to where I was (at Gordon's house with Nala) so I could type a letter for the vet to stamp. Time was becoming a problem now. George had to get the letter to the vet and go back to the ministry of livestock before three. By the time he got the letter from the vet, the ministry was closed. The worst part of that is Tuesday is a Kenyan holiday and all government offices will be closed. The transport docs could not be obtained on Tuesday. It would have to be Wednesday at the earliest.
Meanwhile, the owner of the original car we hired said he couldn't get the car to us on Monday at all, but it would have to be Tuesday. We decided we can't rely on this guy and decided to go with the second guy Gordon found. The next problem: getting our money back from the first guy. We had already paid for the car and needed that money to pay for the second. We are still waiting to get the money back.
After re-evaluating our situation Monday evening, we decided we would delay until Wednesday. We met with the owner of the second car and paid a deposit. Now the plan is to get the car on Tuesday night, pack and leave the house early on Wednesday, go to the ministry of livestock when they open at 8:00 and try to get the transport docs. Once we get those, we will leave for Tanzania.
We have been talking with a vet in Tanzania (again who has never heard of what is being requested of us) who may be able to get a letter for us. I sent him the vaccination records, the health certificate and a sample letter for a vet to stamp and he is going to try to get us something today.
This whole experience has been exhausting and discouraging. However, we know the Lord has allowed these things to happen this way for a reason so we are trusting Him. For some reason we were not supposed to travel on Monday or Tuesday. We know God knows best and we, therefore, are finding peace in that.
Please pray that we will be able to get the letter from the vet in Tanzania, that the car shows up Tuesday evening, that we get our money back from the first car guy, that we get the transport docs for Nala and that we are able to leave early on Wednesday for Korogwe.
Thank you for your prayers. We know we are not alone in this.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Travel Day 1 - Check
We are SO happy we made it to Nairobi tonight. There were times when we didn't think we would make it. Our journey started off a bit rocky. The rental car was supposed to arrive Saturday night around 6:00. Then we were supposed to go to George's parents' house for a good bye dinner. Unfortunately, it didn't arrive until 9:00. There was a considerable amount of stress while we waited for it. We were concerned we may have gotten scammed since we already paid for it. Even though it was late, I was happy to see it arrive.
We dashed off to Kibos where his parents live and got there around 9:45. Everyone had eaten already, but there was still plenty left for us. After we ate, all the family members gathered around to say goodbye. They each shared a personal message to George and me that was really touching. They expressed why they would miss us and what they love about us. It was a really special evening.
We got home around 11:45 and did a few last minute things before going to bed. I was bummed when the alarm went off at 4:30. I could have slept for hours longer. Once we got up, we finished up the packing and loaded up the car. Unfortunately, we were only able to get a small four door sedan and it wasn't able to fit all our bags. We had to leave some stuff there. Hopefully we'll be able to get it to Tanzania soon.
We got on the road a little later than we wanted... around 6:30. About an hour into the drive, we got a flat tire. Bummer. The nearest place to change a tire was an hour away. So we put on the spare and made it to Kericho where we bought a new tire. The other one was shredded completely and couldn't be repaired. By then we were three hours behind schedule. We hoped to get to Nairobi at 12:00 so our driver could turn around and be back in Kisumu in the early evening since the car was due back.
Around 11:45 we were back on the road. An hour later, another flat tire. It was really frustrating. The time crunch and additional money spent really caused a lot of stress (The tire costs added an additional $150 to our expenses which we weren't prepared for). Our driver got a ride to the nearest town and was able to repair this one. Praise the Lord. While we waited for him to return, we prayed and asked God to give us hope. We felt really discouraged and found it hard to continue on.
The tire was repaired quickly and we kept on going to Nairobi. Fortunately, the Lord protected us and we didn't have anymore problems with the tire. The car was swerving a bit so we had to pull over frequently to make sure we didn't have another flat. Each time we pulled over, my heart sank a bit until I got the all clear.
We finally got to Nairobi around 5:30. We hoped our driver would stay the night here, even if we had to pay for another day of the car rental, but he opted to go back. We are praying hard he makes it to Kisumu without problems.
Tonight we are staying with our good friend Gordon. He arranged for a car to take us to Tanzania in the morning. If there is space, he'll come with us. After a stressful 24 hours, we are praying for an easy day tomorrow. This will be the most challenging day. Before we leave for the border, we have to get some clearance papers for Nala. Getting that quickly may be an issue. Then we face the challenge of crossing the border with the car, Nala and our stuff. Once we get past the border, I will be able to relax.
We need your prayers tomorrow. It seems like traveling here is always difficult, but we know the Lord can send us there without problems. If problems occur, pray we handle them with wisdom and grace and that we can stay positive.
*** On a good note - Nala did really well in the car. She had been in a car only one other time. This time it was for 12 hours. Other than one episode of car sickness, she was calm and manageable.
We dashed off to Kibos where his parents live and got there around 9:45. Everyone had eaten already, but there was still plenty left for us. After we ate, all the family members gathered around to say goodbye. They each shared a personal message to George and me that was really touching. They expressed why they would miss us and what they love about us. It was a really special evening.
We got home around 11:45 and did a few last minute things before going to bed. I was bummed when the alarm went off at 4:30. I could have slept for hours longer. Once we got up, we finished up the packing and loaded up the car. Unfortunately, we were only able to get a small four door sedan and it wasn't able to fit all our bags. We had to leave some stuff there. Hopefully we'll be able to get it to Tanzania soon.
We got on the road a little later than we wanted... around 6:30. About an hour into the drive, we got a flat tire. Bummer. The nearest place to change a tire was an hour away. So we put on the spare and made it to Kericho where we bought a new tire. The other one was shredded completely and couldn't be repaired. By then we were three hours behind schedule. We hoped to get to Nairobi at 12:00 so our driver could turn around and be back in Kisumu in the early evening since the car was due back.
Around 11:45 we were back on the road. An hour later, another flat tire. It was really frustrating. The time crunch and additional money spent really caused a lot of stress (The tire costs added an additional $150 to our expenses which we weren't prepared for). Our driver got a ride to the nearest town and was able to repair this one. Praise the Lord. While we waited for him to return, we prayed and asked God to give us hope. We felt really discouraged and found it hard to continue on.
The tire was repaired quickly and we kept on going to Nairobi. Fortunately, the Lord protected us and we didn't have anymore problems with the tire. The car was swerving a bit so we had to pull over frequently to make sure we didn't have another flat. Each time we pulled over, my heart sank a bit until I got the all clear.
We finally got to Nairobi around 5:30. We hoped our driver would stay the night here, even if we had to pay for another day of the car rental, but he opted to go back. We are praying hard he makes it to Kisumu without problems.
Tonight we are staying with our good friend Gordon. He arranged for a car to take us to Tanzania in the morning. If there is space, he'll come with us. After a stressful 24 hours, we are praying for an easy day tomorrow. This will be the most challenging day. Before we leave for the border, we have to get some clearance papers for Nala. Getting that quickly may be an issue. Then we face the challenge of crossing the border with the car, Nala and our stuff. Once we get past the border, I will be able to relax.
We need your prayers tomorrow. It seems like traveling here is always difficult, but we know the Lord can send us there without problems. If problems occur, pray we handle them with wisdom and grace and that we can stay positive.
*** On a good note - Nala did really well in the car. She had been in a car only one other time. This time it was for 12 hours. Other than one episode of car sickness, she was calm and manageable.
Friday, April 27, 2012
April Email Update
Jambo!
Big announcement… we’re moving to Tanzania! George and I had a great time when we went there a few weeks ago. Thank you for your prayers. We have lots of praises to report:
1. We arrived safely which is a huge praise. We had some problems along the way with the buses, but were thankful to get there and back in one piece.
2. We had a wonderful time with Alan, the leader of Africa Harvest of Hope. We had lots of time to discuss the ministry and set a game plan for the future.
3. We found the perfect house! It meets our requirements and then some. We signed the rental agreement and are excited to move in. God is good.
4. Stacie has continued to have good health and a recent ultrasound reveals we are having a boy!
We really felt God leading us during our visit in Tanzania. We were able to visit the children’s home and were thrilled to find our home. It’s really cute and is just what we need. We’ll be moving to Tanzania in just two days. We’re leaving on Sunday, March 29th. Once we arrive, we’ll take some time to adjust to living in Tanzania and then ease into the ministry work. Among some of the things we’ll be doing there are mentoring and discipling the kids in the orphanage, assisting with teams coming to Korogwe, putting on various evangelism events, assisting with ministry accounting and finances, setting up a lab, working on future community projects, distributing food and supplies to widows, orphans and the needy and lots more. We are excited to get to work with this special ministry.
As we begin our transition to a new ministry and country, we need your prayers… a lot! We’ll tell you more about the ministry in the weeks to come (more info can be found on our blog: (http://www.thisisstaciesblog.blogspot.com/) , but here are a few prayer requests for what we are facing in the next couple days and weeks:
1. Safety as we drive to Tanzania. The rainy season has hit both Tanzania and Kenya which means the roads will be extra dangerous.
2. Travel logistics – that the cars and drivers we are hiring will be reliable and on time!
3. Clearance at the border – We are taking our dog, Nala, as well as our luggage and are praying there won’t be any trouble. Our Tanzania residency paperwork is in process, but not issued yet. Having that would make things easier, but we know God can get us there without them for now.
4. Smooth transition to life in Korogwe and with the pastor who currently works for the ministry there.
5. Financial Assistance – we are facing increased expenses now that we are relocating and setting up life in Tanzania. We are also praying God will provide the funds for a reliable used car. It’s very much needed.
6. Arrival of the container sent by Africa Harvest of Hope – as well as being full of food and supplies for the orphanage and others in need, it has many blessings sent from our friends and family in the US for our new house.
Thank you for your endless prayers and support. We can’t wait to see what God does in Korogwe!
Love,
The Orwas
Psalm 91:14, 15 The LORD says, "I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them.
Big announcement… we’re moving to Tanzania! George and I had a great time when we went there a few weeks ago. Thank you for your prayers. We have lots of praises to report:
1. We arrived safely which is a huge praise. We had some problems along the way with the buses, but were thankful to get there and back in one piece.
2. We had a wonderful time with Alan, the leader of Africa Harvest of Hope. We had lots of time to discuss the ministry and set a game plan for the future.
3. We found the perfect house! It meets our requirements and then some. We signed the rental agreement and are excited to move in. God is good.
4. Stacie has continued to have good health and a recent ultrasound reveals we are having a boy!
We really felt God leading us during our visit in Tanzania. We were able to visit the children’s home and were thrilled to find our home. It’s really cute and is just what we need. We’ll be moving to Tanzania in just two days. We’re leaving on Sunday, March 29th. Once we arrive, we’ll take some time to adjust to living in Tanzania and then ease into the ministry work. Among some of the things we’ll be doing there are mentoring and discipling the kids in the orphanage, assisting with teams coming to Korogwe, putting on various evangelism events, assisting with ministry accounting and finances, setting up a lab, working on future community projects, distributing food and supplies to widows, orphans and the needy and lots more. We are excited to get to work with this special ministry.
As we begin our transition to a new ministry and country, we need your prayers… a lot! We’ll tell you more about the ministry in the weeks to come (more info can be found on our blog: (http://www.thisisstaciesblog.blogspot.com/) , but here are a few prayer requests for what we are facing in the next couple days and weeks:
1. Safety as we drive to Tanzania. The rainy season has hit both Tanzania and Kenya which means the roads will be extra dangerous.
2. Travel logistics – that the cars and drivers we are hiring will be reliable and on time!
3. Clearance at the border – We are taking our dog, Nala, as well as our luggage and are praying there won’t be any trouble. Our Tanzania residency paperwork is in process, but not issued yet. Having that would make things easier, but we know God can get us there without them for now.
4. Smooth transition to life in Korogwe and with the pastor who currently works for the ministry there.
5. Financial Assistance – we are facing increased expenses now that we are relocating and setting up life in Tanzania. We are also praying God will provide the funds for a reliable used car. It’s very much needed.
6. Arrival of the container sent by Africa Harvest of Hope – as well as being full of food and supplies for the orphanage and others in need, it has many blessings sent from our friends and family in the US for our new house.
Thank you for your endless prayers and support. We can’t wait to see what God does in Korogwe!
Love,
The Orwas
Psalm 91:14, 15 The LORD says, "I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
4 Days Until the Big Move
George and I will be leaving Kisumu on Monday. We have only a few days left and are feeling stressed. We are most worried about the border crossing with luggage and Nala. Our residency paperwork is still in process. Having that would make things easier. We would appreciate your prayers as we finish up last minute things here and say our goodbyes.
It's a....
BOY! George and I went for an ultrasound today and found out we are having a little boy. I was shocked. I was prepared for a girl. George is very excited!
Other than that big news, my check up today went well. I am 20 weeks now. I gained four pounds since last time, but was relieved since I thought it would be more. I'm still less than when I first got pregnant so I'm ok with it. Everything else is fine - blood pressure, baby's heart rate, etc. Over all I am feeling well. Just more and more uncomfortable as my belly grows. I better get used to it because I am only halfway there!
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Snack Time
George took a really cute picture of his niece, Adheli. Here she is ... just chillin'... munching on ugali. (Amy - I think we too would like it if we were raised on it. Now, I think it's too late for me, but my kids will like it!)
Choma Party
Yesterday, George and I went to his parent's house for a choma party. That's a Kenyan version of a barbeque. Soua is an exchange student from the US who is staying with George's family. She has been here for six weeks and has been a great addition to the family. She goes back to Nairobi on Sunday and wanted to do a choma party before leaving. Almost the whole family was there along with a few other students from the US. A goat was purchased, slaughtered and butchered for the occasion. Lunch was supposed to be at 2:00, but we didn't eat until 6:00. That is typical timing for here. While we waited for everyone to arrive, lots of cooking was done and George grilled the goat. By the time dinner was ready, we had tons of food: Pilau, goat, mashed potatoes (my contribution), chiapatti, beans, guacamole (so yummy!), chicken and more.
We all gathered in the front yard around the table to serve up. It was a nice time of good food and good company.
(George made a taco - chiapatti, goat and guac!)
We all gathered in the front yard around the table to serve up. It was a nice time of good food and good company.
(George made a taco - chiapatti, goat and guac!)
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
What's Next
On April 30th, George and I will be moving to Korogwe. Yes – that's only in 12 days. Yikes! George and I are feeling overwhelmed as there is a lot to do. The biggest thing is to find a way to get from Kisumu to Korogwe. Because of our luggage and Nala, a bus is not an option. We have to rent a car which will be very expensive. We think we will hire someone to drive us to Nairobi and then find another person to drive us to Korogwe. Car rentals cost a lot as does the fuel and driver fees. In addition to finding a car, there is a lot of other things to wrap up here before we go. Much of it will be done by George.
We really need your prayers. Please pray for us as we prepare to go to start our new life and ministry work in Korogwe, Tanzania. While I am excited to go, I am also sad to leave Kisumu. I have become comfortable here and will miss our family and friends. Change is difficult and it will take time to become accustomed to a new place. Here I know how to get around, where all the important places are (banks, grocery stores, post office, etc), who to buy fresh vegetables from that won't overcharge me, where to find a quick 30 cent lunch, etc. I know I will discover all that in Korogwe, but I will miss it here.
Things you can be praying for:
1. A cheap, safe car and driver to take us to Korogwe
2. No problems at the border – with the car, Nala or visas.
3. Wisdom as we wrap things up in Kenya for now.
4. Funds to pay for the move to Korogwe. We have a lot of expenses coming up within the next two – four weeks and are trusting God to provide
5. Good health for us during this stressful time
6. Peace as we follow God's call on our lives.
We really need your prayers. Please pray for us as we prepare to go to start our new life and ministry work in Korogwe, Tanzania. While I am excited to go, I am also sad to leave Kisumu. I have become comfortable here and will miss our family and friends. Change is difficult and it will take time to become accustomed to a new place. Here I know how to get around, where all the important places are (banks, grocery stores, post office, etc), who to buy fresh vegetables from that won't overcharge me, where to find a quick 30 cent lunch, etc. I know I will discover all that in Korogwe, but I will miss it here.
Things you can be praying for:
1. A cheap, safe car and driver to take us to Korogwe
2. No problems at the border – with the car, Nala or visas.
3. Wisdom as we wrap things up in Kenya for now.
4. Funds to pay for the move to Korogwe. We have a lot of expenses coming up within the next two – four weeks and are trusting God to provide
5. Good health for us during this stressful time
6. Peace as we follow God's call on our lives.
Back in Kisumu
On Tuesday evening, we arrived back in Kisumu. We had a nice time in Nairobi visiting with Gordon. Monday evening, his sister, Liz, came over with her son Jake. I was really happy to see them since it has been over a year and a half since I last saw them. Tuesday morning around 9:30 our bus left Nairobi. About two and a half hours into the trip, the bus pulled over and told us they were going back to follow another route. They received word a police inspection was just ahead and the bus would not pass resulting in the arrest of the driver and conductor. Why it wouldn't pass, I have no idea. Unfortunately, back tracking added an additional two hours to our trip. It was very frustrating. The alternative way has terrible roads which again lengthened the trip. The roads are very bumpy and felt like the Indiana Jones ride. It's not easy normally, but being pregnant made it especially painful. Around 6:30, we arrived in Kisumu. We were so thankful to be home. Nala was happy too. She was very excited to see us.
Christmas in April
Alan brought us a suitcase full of supplies from the US. Some things we needed and had requested (like toiletries, bug spray, sunscreen, thermometers etc) and other things were fun blessings from home. I received a bunch of really cute maternity clothes. I immediately began to wear them during the trip. We also received adorable baby stuff like clothes, blankets, toys and more. Even Nala got gifts (bones, a collar and a dog tag). George and I had so much fun going through the suitcase. It was like Christmas. It is so special to get things from home. Thank you to everyone who made that happen. We felt so loved!
Dinner at Lulu's
On our last night in Korogwe, Lulu invited us over to her house for dinner. It was a nice way to end our stay there. Lulu was very hospitable.
Once we had drunk soda, she took us on a short hike to where she wants to build her house. Her father gave her a piece of land on top of a hill. The view is beautiful.
It overlooks all of Korogwe. Alan (Lulu's son, not the adult!) was very excited that night and ran all over the place.
After a bit, we walked back to her place where she set up dinner. She out did herself and put out quite a spread: samosas, spaghetti, chicken, soup, chiapatti, rice, fruit and more. It was really nice. Later in the evening, her parents came over to meet us. Her dad promised to slaughter a goat for us when we return (which is a big honor). We had a great time visiting with Lulu and her neighbors. The funniest part of the evening was when little Alan ran out of the house and shouted to his friend “come see the white people!” It cracked me up.
Once we had drunk soda, she took us on a short hike to where she wants to build her house. Her father gave her a piece of land on top of a hill. The view is beautiful.
It overlooks all of Korogwe. Alan (Lulu's son, not the adult!) was very excited that night and ran all over the place.
After a bit, we walked back to her place where she set up dinner. She out did herself and put out quite a spread: samosas, spaghetti, chicken, soup, chiapatti, rice, fruit and more. It was really nice. Later in the evening, her parents came over to meet us. Her dad promised to slaughter a goat for us when we return (which is a big honor). We had a great time visiting with Lulu and her neighbors. The funniest part of the evening was when little Alan ran out of the house and shouted to his friend “come see the white people!” It cracked me up.
Monday, April 16, 2012
In Nairobi
Sunday morning George and I left Tanzania. At 11:30, we took a small bus from Moshi to Arusha and then got on a bus with Kampala Coach heading to Nairobi. Our ride was going well at first. We got through the border easily, but had to wait over an hour because one of the passengers had been arrested for overstaying her visa. Somehow she was released and we got on our way again. 30 minutes later we had a flat tire that took about an hour to change. Finally we reached Nairobi around 8:30pm. Waiting to pick us up was our good friend, Gordon. We were really happy to see him. He took us to his place where we visited and ate dinner.
We were going to go back to Kisumu on Monday morning, but Gordon convinced us to stay an extra day. This morning (Monday), George and I went to check on my residency papers. Apparently nothing had been done. :( They were supposed to request his passport file from Kisumu, but never did. We were told the person who collected our paperwork didn't care to do that - which means it wasn't worth his time since we didn't brie him. We spoke to a couple people who promised to request the file and start the process. We'll see...
After we finished there, we went to Gordon's office for a bit before proceeding to my favorite place for lunch... JAVA. I haven't eaten a meal there in over a year. It was fabulous. I had the best burger ever. And a shake of course.
Tomorrow morning at 9:00 we'll be going back to Kisumu. After all the traveling, we are tired and anxious to be home.
We were going to go back to Kisumu on Monday morning, but Gordon convinced us to stay an extra day. This morning (Monday), George and I went to check on my residency papers. Apparently nothing had been done. :( They were supposed to request his passport file from Kisumu, but never did. We were told the person who collected our paperwork didn't care to do that - which means it wasn't worth his time since we didn't brie him. We spoke to a couple people who promised to request the file and start the process. We'll see...
After we finished there, we went to Gordon's office for a bit before proceeding to my favorite place for lunch... JAVA. I haven't eaten a meal there in over a year. It was fabulous. I had the best burger ever. And a shake of course.
Tomorrow morning at 9:00 we'll be going back to Kisumu. After all the traveling, we are tired and anxious to be home.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Heading Home
Friday morning we left Korogwe. Our bus ride was going well until the bus was involved in an accident. George and I were in the back row of the bus and heard a loud bang all of a sudden. I thought it was a blown tire, but sadly it was another car. Apparently a car on the other side of the road lost control and began swerving all over the road. Our bus driver saw it and slowed down. The car hit the back of our bus and careened off the road, down and embankment, rolling several times. The cause seemed to be a flat tire. George and Alan walked down to the car and were saddened by what they saw. All four people in the car were severely injured. It seemed like a couple of them wouldn't make it. Their Toyota Land Cruiser was totaled. Some passerbys took the passengers of the car to the nearest hospital (in Korogwe which was an hour away) and we stayed until the police arrived. About 40 minutes later we were back on the road, praying for the injured and thanking the Lord no one on the bus was injured. It could have been a lot worse. We'll never know what happened to those people, but we pray they somehow made it.
We arrived in Moshi around 3:30 and booked rooms at the Lutheran Hostel. Then George arranged for our bus tickets to Nairobi. We leave Sunday at 11:00am. We'll arrive in Nairobi in the evening and head to Kisumu Monday morning. We hope to check on my residency paperwork in Nairobi before our bus leaves. Alan's plan leaves at 8:45 Sunday evening. Please pray for us as we travel back home.
We arrived in Moshi around 3:30 and booked rooms at the Lutheran Hostel. Then George arranged for our bus tickets to Nairobi. We leave Sunday at 11:00am. We'll arrive in Nairobi in the evening and head to Kisumu Monday morning. We hope to check on my residency paperwork in Nairobi before our bus leaves. Alan's plan leaves at 8:45 Sunday evening. Please pray for us as we travel back home.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Samosas and Soup
This is a samosa. They are amazing! They make them so well in Tanzania. I can't get enough of them. They're like a wonton or an egg roll Inside there are vegetables or meat. My favorites are the meat ones. Lulu is going to teach me how to make them.
One strange thing I have enjoyed a lot lately is tomato soup. Strange for me because I have never had it before... ever. It must be a pregnancy thing.
It's Official
We have a house! George signed the rental agreement last night. I am so excited to move into our first home together.
(Here is George with two of our new neighbors!)
Please be praying for us as we now have to find a way to drive down here with Nala. We need to find a safe, reliable way that is also cheap. Because of Nala, we can't take a bus and need to find a private car. Pray for George as he makes those arrangements. Also pray that the minor repairs on the home are finished before we arrive May 1st.
(Here is George with two of our new neighbors!)
Please be praying for us as we now have to find a way to drive down here with Nala. We need to find a safe, reliable way that is also cheap. Because of Nala, we can't take a bus and need to find a private car. Pray for George as he makes those arrangements. Also pray that the minor repairs on the home are finished before we arrive May 1st.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
YIKES!!!!
Korogwe is located in the Usambara mountain range. I was recently informed that there are some of the most deadliest snakes in the world living here. Black and green mambas, cobras, etc. HELP!!!
Up the Mountain
This morning Alan, George and I headed up the mountain to the children’s home. It was a beautiful, but HOT day. Other than going a little slow and taking a few water breaks, I did pretty well on the hike for being pregnant (If I do say so myself!).
(We went up the short cut. It saves a lot of time, but is very steep.)
(The view is gorgeous. Pictures don't do it justice.)
When we got to the house, we caught some of the kids as they were eating their breakfast. They only were there for a few minutes before leaving for school. It was great to see them again.
Our visit this time was short, but we'll be able to go back soon once we move here.
(We went up the short cut. It saves a lot of time, but is very steep.)
(The view is gorgeous. Pictures don't do it justice.)
When we got to the house, we caught some of the kids as they were eating their breakfast. They only were there for a few minutes before leaving for school. It was great to see them again.
Our visit this time was short, but we'll be able to go back soon once we move here.
House Hunting
Yesterday George went looking for a house with Lulu. Lulu was married to Frank, Herbert's son. Sadly Frank died last December. George and I came to visit shortly after it happened. Lulu was very helpful with house hunting. In fact, she found a house that is as close to being perfect for us as we will find here.
Here is the front of the house.
It has three bedrooms (which is more than we were hoping for) and three bathrooms. Two include toilets! Its located near the center market, but is still far enough away to feel some privacy. The only downside of the place is that it doesn't have a fence. After we move in, we'll work on putting one up. The owner of the house has some repairs to do (mostly with the plumbing) before we move, but other than that the place looks great. There are four coconut palm trees, a mango tree and an orange tree in the front yard.
(With Lulu)
George is working with the owners to come up with a rental agreement. Hopefully we'll get that settled before we go and we'll have a house to come back to in May! Praise the Lord!
*** Funny Story - While George was house hunting, Alan and I walked to the market. Apparently while we were walking, a lizard ran in front of me and the timing was perfect (well not for the lizard) and as I took the next step, I smashed it's head. What was funny was that I had no idea - until Alan mentioned it later in the day. Thank goodness I didn't see it, I would have freaked out. It wasn't a tiny one either. It was 8 inches or so. I guess it was pretty nasty - there was blood and it was thrashing around. Ooops!
Here is the front of the house.
It has three bedrooms (which is more than we were hoping for) and three bathrooms. Two include toilets! Its located near the center market, but is still far enough away to feel some privacy. The only downside of the place is that it doesn't have a fence. After we move in, we'll work on putting one up. The owner of the house has some repairs to do (mostly with the plumbing) before we move, but other than that the place looks great. There are four coconut palm trees, a mango tree and an orange tree in the front yard.
(With Lulu)
George is working with the owners to come up with a rental agreement. Hopefully we'll get that settled before we go and we'll have a house to come back to in May! Praise the Lord!
*** Funny Story - While George was house hunting, Alan and I walked to the market. Apparently while we were walking, a lizard ran in front of me and the timing was perfect (well not for the lizard) and as I took the next step, I smashed it's head. What was funny was that I had no idea - until Alan mentioned it later in the day. Thank goodness I didn't see it, I would have freaked out. It wasn't a tiny one either. It was 8 inches or so. I guess it was pretty nasty - there was blood and it was thrashing around. Ooops!
Arrival in Korogwe
Leaving Moshi on the Dar Express bus was wonderful. In the past we have taken other buses that are packed full of people. The seats are tiny and I always end up having some sort of breakdown. Alan had taken the Dar Express before and we were thrilled to learn about them. This bus had comfortable seats, was not over packed with people and made very few stops. Instead of taking 5-6 hours, the trip only took 4.
When we arrived in Korogwe, it was pouring rain. The bus dropped us off at a bus stop that we have eaten at a couple times before. They make this amazing BBQ meat. They serve it in a tray along with fries. It's my favorite meal here
Once the rained stopped, we took a taxi to our hotel, The While Parrot. It's a great place. The rooms are nice and clean. And the food is yummy too.
When we arrived in Korogwe, it was pouring rain. The bus dropped us off at a bus stop that we have eaten at a couple times before. They make this amazing BBQ meat. They serve it in a tray along with fries. It's my favorite meal here
Once the rained stopped, we took a taxi to our hotel, The While Parrot. It's a great place. The rooms are nice and clean. And the food is yummy too.
Moshi Photos
I have a few spare moments and am trying to catch up on blogging. Here are a couple photos from our time in Moshi. Moshi is at the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro and is a very green and beautiful city.
Here is a view of the street from a deli we ate lunch at.
Here is George and Alan at the Italian restaurant where we had awesome pizza.
On Sunday it was Easter. It was bittersweet. Although we could celebrate privately, it was the first Easter I haven't been at church. We had hoped to go to a service in the morning, but our bus left too early. Someone sent a treat from home, though, which was fun. PEEPS! (Mom... was that you? I know you love them)
Here is a view of the street from a deli we ate lunch at.
Here is George and Alan at the Italian restaurant where we had awesome pizza.
On Sunday it was Easter. It was bittersweet. Although we could celebrate privately, it was the first Easter I haven't been at church. We had hoped to go to a service in the morning, but our bus left too early. Someone sent a treat from home, though, which was fun. PEEPS! (Mom... was that you? I know you love them)
Pregnancy Photo
Some of you have been asking for an updated of photo of me pregnant. Here you go. 18 ½ weeks along. Alan brought a suitcase full of stuff from home and in it were maternity clothes. I am so thankful for them! Pregnancy jeans with the flexible front panel are the best invention. Now I can no longer suck in my gut, but I don’t feel so bad with the maternity clothes. They're so fun!!!
Monday, April 9, 2012
In Korogwe
We are in Korogwe now. We had a nice bus ride and found it warm and rainy. George is looking for a house today. Please keep us in your prayers! I'll write more and post pictures soon.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Day in Moshi
Today we had a really nice day with Alan in Moshi. We picked him up at the airport last night and have enjoyed our time with him. We got to talk about a lot of ministry items and are very excited about what God is going to do in Korogwe. We also were able to walk around Moshi a bit and ate yummy food. Tonight for dinner we had amazing pizza! Tomorrow morning we leave for Korogwe in the morning. We bought tickets with the Dar Express which is a bus company Alan has used many times before. I am so happy to have found them because they don't over crowd the buses which has led to difficulty for me in the past. It is such an answer to prayer!
Next post will be from Korogwe!
Next post will be from Korogwe!
Friday, April 6, 2012
Made it to Moshi
Praise the Lord, George and I made it to Moshi, Tanzania. We had a nightmare of a journey, but are so thankful God brought us here. Our internet time is limited so I'll do a longer post with more details as soon as I can.
Tonight we pick up Alan at the airport and will proceed to Korogwe on Sunday. Please keep praying as we are feeling some spiritual warfare going on.
Tonight we pick up Alan at the airport and will proceed to Korogwe on Sunday. Please keep praying as we are feeling some spiritual warfare going on.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Traveling Light
George has transformed me. Against my will, I have become a light(er) packer. My friends will be shocked at this. I am a notorious over packer. My theory is, you never know what will happen so why not be prepared for everything? Also, I don't like deciding what to wear ahead of time so I always brought many options. When my friends and I went to London for one week, I had a big suitcase stuffed to the brim along with an overstuffed carry on. My haul included 12 pairs of shoes! Overkill? Yes. But I was ok with that.
Men however bring one change of clothes and they are good to go. Mike, didn't you say all you need is a towel and a bathing suit? My dear husband sees that it's wiser to travel light and makes me trim my load. Partly because no matter how much I say I will carry my own bags, he knows he'll end up helping me.
For our 12 day trip to Tanzania, all our clothes fit into one backpack! George's backpack is a Mary Poppins bag and fit much more that I thought it could. I thought I would need my back pack plus a small suitcase. He was convinced we could make all our stuff fit into our two back packs. He worked his magic and got all our clothes into his bag. I did a good job at limiting my choices. I just had to breath and remind myself that we can do laundry there. Then, my bag has the computer, toiletries, travel documents, books and other random items for traveling.
Here is a picture of George's Mary Poppins bag. I can't believe all we have is two back packs!!! Who knew traveling could be done this way?!
Men however bring one change of clothes and they are good to go. Mike, didn't you say all you need is a towel and a bathing suit? My dear husband sees that it's wiser to travel light and makes me trim my load. Partly because no matter how much I say I will carry my own bags, he knows he'll end up helping me.
For our 12 day trip to Tanzania, all our clothes fit into one backpack! George's backpack is a Mary Poppins bag and fit much more that I thought it could. I thought I would need my back pack plus a small suitcase. He was convinced we could make all our stuff fit into our two back packs. He worked his magic and got all our clothes into his bag. I did a good job at limiting my choices. I just had to breath and remind myself that we can do laundry there. Then, my bag has the computer, toiletries, travel documents, books and other random items for traveling.
Here is a picture of George's Mary Poppins bag. I can't believe all we have is two back packs!!! Who knew traveling could be done this way?!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Pray for Safe Travels
George and I are leaving tonight for Tanzania. We'll leave at 10:00pm from Kisumu and switch buses in Nairobi around 6:00am tomorrow. Then we'll arrive in Moshi sometime in the afternoon which is where we will meet Alan Friday evening before proceeding to Korogwe on Sunday. Things you can pray for are:
1. Alan as he travels from the US
2. Safety on the bus
3. George as he arranges for the hotel and bus tickets to Korogwe once we are in Moshi.
4. A house for us to rent would be found in Korogwe
5. Wisdom and favor from the Lord as we discuss the ministry with Alan and Herbert.
I don't know if we'll have internet access while we are gone. If we do, I'll post updates and answer emails as time allows.
Thanks for your prayers!
1. Alan as he travels from the US
2. Safety on the bus
3. George as he arranges for the hotel and bus tickets to Korogwe once we are in Moshi.
4. A house for us to rent would be found in Korogwe
5. Wisdom and favor from the Lord as we discuss the ministry with Alan and Herbert.
I don't know if we'll have internet access while we are gone. If we do, I'll post updates and answer emails as time allows.
Thanks for your prayers!
Monday, April 2, 2012
Kericho
Early Sunday morning, George and I headed to Kericho to visit the hospital he used to work at. George wanted me to re-do the labs so he could double check the results. George still has full privileges at the hospital so he is able to run the tests himself. Plus, I could have the ultrasound done there. After a two hour, bumpy matatu ride we arrived at the hospital. It was neat to meet all his old co-workers. He is very much loved there by everyone and they were happy to meet me as well. Within an hour, the labs and ultrasound were done. The labs confirmed an infection and the ultrasounds showed everything was fine with the baby. One of George's doctor friends saw us and again prescribed an antibiotic. I was relieved to know the baby was ok and anxious to start the medicine so I could get better.
After we were done at the hospital, we visited with Lydia and Benard, two of George's friends who work at the hospital. Both attended our wedding – Lydia as a guest and Benard as a groomsmen. While at Lydia's apartment, she gave us oranges and mangos. When we decided to go to lunch, Lydia went to her room to get ready. Then we heard her cry that monkeys were in her kitchen. I thought she was kidding. She wasn't!!!! I didn't know that there are a lot of monkeys in Kericho. A mom and baby snuck in her kitchen to help themselves to the rest of the mango! Once they grabbed their loot, they ran to an adjacent roof where we got to watch them. They were adorable! I was really bummed I didn't have my camera. A few minutes later, we saw a few more monkeys being chased out of a pharmacy. One of them had taken some medicine! So funny!
After having lunch with Lydia and Benard, George and I headed back to Kisumu. Fortunately, this matatu didn't have many stops on the way and only took an hour and half to arrive. Now that I have the medicine I need, I will try to rest and hopefully feel better just in time to go to Tanzania on Wednesday.
After we were done at the hospital, we visited with Lydia and Benard, two of George's friends who work at the hospital. Both attended our wedding – Lydia as a guest and Benard as a groomsmen. While at Lydia's apartment, she gave us oranges and mangos. When we decided to go to lunch, Lydia went to her room to get ready. Then we heard her cry that monkeys were in her kitchen. I thought she was kidding. She wasn't!!!! I didn't know that there are a lot of monkeys in Kericho. A mom and baby snuck in her kitchen to help themselves to the rest of the mango! Once they grabbed their loot, they ran to an adjacent roof where we got to watch them. They were adorable! I was really bummed I didn't have my camera. A few minutes later, we saw a few more monkeys being chased out of a pharmacy. One of them had taken some medicine! So funny!
After having lunch with Lydia and Benard, George and I headed back to Kisumu. Fortunately, this matatu didn't have many stops on the way and only took an hour and half to arrive. Now that I have the medicine I need, I will try to rest and hopefully feel better just in time to go to Tanzania on Wednesday.
A Kenyan Emergency Room
Ever wonder what a hospital ER is like in Kenya? Well, it's in many ways like one in the US – lots of waiting. On Saturday evening I decided to go get checked out after a couple days of abdominal pain. I wasn't sure if it was just normal pregnancy pain (as the uterus and muscles expand) or if there was something wrong. Since it was consistent for two days, I thought I should go and make sure everything is ok. When I arrived, a nice employee told me where to go. First I had to grab a number and wait for the triage nurse to see me. Once she called my number, she took my vital signs and inquired why I was there. Then she told me to wait outside while my chart was made. Next I was called up to the cashier's counter. One HUGE difference between Kenya and the US is every service in Kenya is pre-paid for. And I mean EVERYTHING. If you are admitted as an in-patient, you have to buy everything the nurses or doctors will use – saline solution, needles, tape, medicine, etc.
I had to pay to consultation fee (about $8.00) before I could be seen. Once that was paid for, I waited to be called back by the doctor. It was a busy evening so the nurse told me the wait would be long. As a frequent visitor to emergency rooms in the US, I am used to waiting and expected no less/ About two hours later, it was my turn. The doctor was very nice and thorough. He suspected a muscle strain, but wanted me to do labs and an ultrasound to be sure. Next stop, the cashier's counter to pay for my labs (about $6.00). Then off to the lab to drop off my sample. Since I had to wait an hour for the results, I went to pay for the ultrasound. Here is where I hit my first snag. They don't have someone there 24 hours to do ultrasounds. I was shocked. I spoke to the nurse and she told me a doctor is on call for emergencies. Since I had been in pain for two days, I really wanted to do the ultrasound that evening to make sure the baby was ok and for peace of mind. She said she would call the doctor to see if he would come in. His response – No. I admit, I was annoyed. Who wants to be told your problem is not important enough to be checked tonight? There was nothing I could do so I just sat down and waited for the lab results. After an hour, George picked them up and we waited again to see the doctor. Not long after, we were called back. She said there was evidence of an infection somewhere so antibiotics were prescribed and I was told to come back on Sunday to do the ultrasound.
Overall time in the ER – 3 ½ hours. Close to an average US ER visit. The staff was nice and the place was very clean. My only complaint was not being able to get the ultrasound that night. This is one place we are considering for the delivery and it makes me uneasy knowing there isn't someone there to do ultrasounds around the clock. What if there is a complication? Oh well. That's where we place our trust in the Lord.
I had to pay to consultation fee (about $8.00) before I could be seen. Once that was paid for, I waited to be called back by the doctor. It was a busy evening so the nurse told me the wait would be long. As a frequent visitor to emergency rooms in the US, I am used to waiting and expected no less/ About two hours later, it was my turn. The doctor was very nice and thorough. He suspected a muscle strain, but wanted me to do labs and an ultrasound to be sure. Next stop, the cashier's counter to pay for my labs (about $6.00). Then off to the lab to drop off my sample. Since I had to wait an hour for the results, I went to pay for the ultrasound. Here is where I hit my first snag. They don't have someone there 24 hours to do ultrasounds. I was shocked. I spoke to the nurse and she told me a doctor is on call for emergencies. Since I had been in pain for two days, I really wanted to do the ultrasound that evening to make sure the baby was ok and for peace of mind. She said she would call the doctor to see if he would come in. His response – No. I admit, I was annoyed. Who wants to be told your problem is not important enough to be checked tonight? There was nothing I could do so I just sat down and waited for the lab results. After an hour, George picked them up and we waited again to see the doctor. Not long after, we were called back. She said there was evidence of an infection somewhere so antibiotics were prescribed and I was told to come back on Sunday to do the ultrasound.
Overall time in the ER – 3 ½ hours. Close to an average US ER visit. The staff was nice and the place was very clean. My only complaint was not being able to get the ultrasound that night. This is one place we are considering for the delivery and it makes me uneasy knowing there isn't someone there to do ultrasounds around the clock. What if there is a complication? Oh well. That's where we place our trust in the Lord.
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