Paul texted me at about 4 AM CST time that they had boarded from Amsterdam to return back to the States. I'm sure when Paul gets back to somewhat of a normal comprehension of time (LOL) he will be able to post some of his summarizing thoughts. He is to arrive in Atlanta at 2 PM CST.
Thanks to everyone who has prayed, called, texted, sowed, and made this trip possible. The kids and I were talking last night, and Addison was somewhat bothered. He said, "Mom, I am ashamed of myself." And I am thinking, "Oh, no! What has he done! LOL" But, he was saying, "Mom, I miss Daddy, but then I don't. That is bad!" Then Ashlyn jumped in and said, "You know, I have missed him, but there was something about knowing that God made this trip happen for Daddy and how He really wanted to go. It kind of made the time pass by. I knew he was doing something for God and for ministry and it made it easier to deal with." Addison quickly agreed. He said, "Yeah. That's what I mean." I knew exactly what they meant. Even though Paul wasn't here in body, there was such a strong feeling that he was here with us in spirit that it was extremely comforting. No one can tell me that God doesn't provide a sense of companionship and peace. We have experienced it first hand.
As the family at home, we have had such an outstanding sense of calm within our house. There is no way to describe it. Even though moments of overwhelming awareness---"He is in the wilderness in Kenya! What if.....What if..----came in, the Lord always washed us with a fresh peace. Although the enemy tried his best to get his "game" on at the homefront, God reestablished His Army of believers to stand in the gap and make war in the heavenlies. SOOOOO, having said all of that , from our heart to our amily, friends, HARVEST CENTER family, all who share a piece of our heart....you know who you are, wesend a resounding THANK YOU!
Blessings,
Paula
Friday, March 27, 2009
DAY 8 Pastor Paul's Perspective
Day 8
What a beautiful morning. When I stepped outside to get the coffee and hot chocolate left with our wake up call, it was much warmer than yesterday morning. I got dressed and headed out for the last morning game drive. The search of the day was for leopards and a rhino would be a great find. There are only about 20 rhinos in the region now and they are pretty hard to find. We saw several lions zebras, gazelles, impala’s etc… as the morning went on. The view and scenery were incredible. The clear blue sky, mountains in the background, vast nothing other than wildlife and occasionally another safari group as far as the eye could see. The morning was coming to a close and we had spotted neither a leopard or a rhino. As blessed as we have been seeing things it wouldn’t have surprised me to find a leopard and a rhino in a tree. As I realized that our time was coming to a close and we had seen neither, we were coming up on crossing the river again in the jeep. I had a thought of something else I had heard about on these excursions, but had no desire to see. As we were getting ready to cross, the thought popped in my head that just maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to see one in the distance since this was my first safari---what was I thinking. Surely it was lack of sleep. We crossed thru the river and saw some birds and the hippos downstream, but nothing else. Almost a relief now I guess. Just about over. I was up taking some scenery pics and capturing some of the view at times. I can’t remember if I was up or in my seat at the time, but suddenly Raphael, our guide, slammed on the brakes and the Jeep came to a screeching halt. I thought surely an elephant or giraffe had run across the road in front of us. NOT! A python was slowly inching its way across the road. It was at least 8 foot long w/estimations up to 10+. I wasn’t about to get out and measure it. In the midst of the screams, I got some pretty good pics and video footage. I think some of our group and guides enjoyed watching me more than they did the snake. Can’t wait to share it!!! After watching for what seemed like hours, we had to move on to get back and have breakfast, then to pack to fly back to Nairobi. Breakfast was great and we headed in to pack. We said our goodbyes and then we were driven out to the landing strip. Thank God they were flying the big plane today!!! No motion sickness. I actually slept most of the way back in to Nairobi. There the rented bus picked us up to take us back to the Kibera Kids Center. We got back there and started packing before lunch to be able to spend some time with the kids and get headed out. Before lunch, the children from the school and the free school gathered for pictures and some goodbye songs. It was sad to realize that the end was drawing near. After they finished singing and taking pictures, the kids from the free school were given candy, a rare treat for all the kids, even more so for the ones in the free school. We went in for sandwiches, chips , and banana fries. They were pretty good! After that it was back upstairs to finish packing, get the room cleaned up and “finalize” the disk. I’m sure that Paula told me to, but I 4got! Afterwards there was still some time to take some footage and pics before cleaning up to head for dinner and the flight. I went around the room with those that were upstairs and got each of them to say their names. Hopefully the video picked up some of the names better than I did. Some of the group played soccer with them, others played some other games and just visited for a while. Finally it was time to get cleaned up and packed up. Everyone met outside with luggage ready to go and the Kids Center children were all gathered there for the farewell presentation. The songs were beautiful. It was heartbreaking to realize this was our final moments with them. After they finished singing, they blew a group kiss and went through the group telling us all good bye and “love you”. It was just about toooooo much! The children then carried our luggage up the hill to load it in the van and see us off on the bus. They were all standing at the gate waving as we pulled out, our final good byes for this trip. Just outside the gate there were folks working on the apartment buildings, a group of teenage boys, playing soccer, women headed in from who knows where back to the slums balancing their load on top of their head, working gardens, etc… As we headed into Nairobi, there appeared to be hundreds of people walking back home to the slums from work. There is no way to capture all the feelings to share. We had one last meal with the Womble’s at The Java House, a somewhat Americanized establishment in Nairobi. I got a cheeseburger, fries, and milkshake as my last meal there. We headed from eating to hit the Nairobi airport. Again, an experience that is indescribable. We told Jim & Debora Womble goodbye and lost ourselves in the crowd. When I got through at the ticket counter, a nun decided to turn around and I almost knocked her down. Not a good note to leave on haha. We waited in the terminal for time to board our flight. I had to check my carry on, because the attendant was going to throw so much of it away. I told him I had already checked two and he assured me that it was no problem. I’m just praying that all 3 pieces are waiting on me in Atlanta!!! We boarded the KLM flight and they served us some kind of soup and some kind of salad for supper. Interesting. I had a few claustrophobic moments on the plane when they pulled the cart beside me and there was no room on either side of me, but I went back to sleep to dream about my date with the python and all was well.
This is officially Day 9 now and I am trying to finish entering my thoughts in the airport in Amsterdam. We saw the Amsterdam sunrise. It was nice and bright! We have about a 3 hour layover, just long enough to be here and shop a little, but not enough to be able to head out for a brief tour. Our group divides here. Some are headed back to DC after a few hour layover, and some to Chicago after a longer lay over. We will be flying back into Atlanta at some point? Who even knows what day it is now? We have already gained 2 hours back and will gain the other 6 back somewhere between here, Atlanta, and the ride home to Pell City. Since the process of leaving began, (even though I think some of us considered throwing our passports out the window so we could stay), I am ready to get home, see Paula, the kids, call the rest of the family, catch up on the church family and get things back to normal. No, things will never be normal again.
As with every trip I have taken, I know that a part of me will never leave Africa, the place of the fallen zebra that will stay in my mind forever, and a BIG part will always be with the Womble’s and Kibera Children’s Center, with those who prayed for me, not to mention a part of me that I hope will go home with each of the group. Thank you Br. David Ray for continuing to tell me at Camping Conference that I needed to go. A ‘Thank you’ to all of the group for putting up w/me and a special thanks to Tyler, the 16 year old who put up with the old man snoring on the trip J. Thanks to the Baltimore Mission and Company for all of your hard work, a BIG thanks to Bishop Ronald Martin- “Big Daddy and Miss Lynda” (I felt that I already knew you through the kindred spirit of Margaret Gaines), and to the whole DelMArva Region for the impact you have made on the ministry in Kibera, not to mention Michael Ray, and then the Chicago Boys - Michael and Pastor Sam Abbott. Pastor Sam, you were much better behaved when we worked Bible Quiz together at assembly. I guess I will wrap up for now. I’ve spent more money than I needed to in Amsterdam. What a TRIP this has all been. I hope that my words have just somewhat conveyed the depth of it all. And I will close with, yes, “I needed Africa more than Africa needed me!”
What a beautiful morning. When I stepped outside to get the coffee and hot chocolate left with our wake up call, it was much warmer than yesterday morning. I got dressed and headed out for the last morning game drive. The search of the day was for leopards and a rhino would be a great find. There are only about 20 rhinos in the region now and they are pretty hard to find. We saw several lions zebras, gazelles, impala’s etc… as the morning went on. The view and scenery were incredible. The clear blue sky, mountains in the background, vast nothing other than wildlife and occasionally another safari group as far as the eye could see. The morning was coming to a close and we had spotted neither a leopard or a rhino. As blessed as we have been seeing things it wouldn’t have surprised me to find a leopard and a rhino in a tree. As I realized that our time was coming to a close and we had seen neither, we were coming up on crossing the river again in the jeep. I had a thought of something else I had heard about on these excursions, but had no desire to see. As we were getting ready to cross, the thought popped in my head that just maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to see one in the distance since this was my first safari---what was I thinking. Surely it was lack of sleep. We crossed thru the river and saw some birds and the hippos downstream, but nothing else. Almost a relief now I guess. Just about over. I was up taking some scenery pics and capturing some of the view at times. I can’t remember if I was up or in my seat at the time, but suddenly Raphael, our guide, slammed on the brakes and the Jeep came to a screeching halt. I thought surely an elephant or giraffe had run across the road in front of us. NOT! A python was slowly inching its way across the road. It was at least 8 foot long w/estimations up to 10+. I wasn’t about to get out and measure it. In the midst of the screams, I got some pretty good pics and video footage. I think some of our group and guides enjoyed watching me more than they did the snake. Can’t wait to share it!!! After watching for what seemed like hours, we had to move on to get back and have breakfast, then to pack to fly back to Nairobi. Breakfast was great and we headed in to pack. We said our goodbyes and then we were driven out to the landing strip. Thank God they were flying the big plane today!!! No motion sickness. I actually slept most of the way back in to Nairobi. There the rented bus picked us up to take us back to the Kibera Kids Center. We got back there and started packing before lunch to be able to spend some time with the kids and get headed out. Before lunch, the children from the school and the free school gathered for pictures and some goodbye songs. It was sad to realize that the end was drawing near. After they finished singing and taking pictures, the kids from the free school were given candy, a rare treat for all the kids, even more so for the ones in the free school. We went in for sandwiches, chips , and banana fries. They were pretty good! After that it was back upstairs to finish packing, get the room cleaned up and “finalize” the disk. I’m sure that Paula told me to, but I 4got! Afterwards there was still some time to take some footage and pics before cleaning up to head for dinner and the flight. I went around the room with those that were upstairs and got each of them to say their names. Hopefully the video picked up some of the names better than I did. Some of the group played soccer with them, others played some other games and just visited for a while. Finally it was time to get cleaned up and packed up. Everyone met outside with luggage ready to go and the Kids Center children were all gathered there for the farewell presentation. The songs were beautiful. It was heartbreaking to realize this was our final moments with them. After they finished singing, they blew a group kiss and went through the group telling us all good bye and “love you”. It was just about toooooo much! The children then carried our luggage up the hill to load it in the van and see us off on the bus. They were all standing at the gate waving as we pulled out, our final good byes for this trip. Just outside the gate there were folks working on the apartment buildings, a group of teenage boys, playing soccer, women headed in from who knows where back to the slums balancing their load on top of their head, working gardens, etc… As we headed into Nairobi, there appeared to be hundreds of people walking back home to the slums from work. There is no way to capture all the feelings to share. We had one last meal with the Womble’s at The Java House, a somewhat Americanized establishment in Nairobi. I got a cheeseburger, fries, and milkshake as my last meal there. We headed from eating to hit the Nairobi airport. Again, an experience that is indescribable. We told Jim & Debora Womble goodbye and lost ourselves in the crowd. When I got through at the ticket counter, a nun decided to turn around and I almost knocked her down. Not a good note to leave on haha. We waited in the terminal for time to board our flight. I had to check my carry on, because the attendant was going to throw so much of it away. I told him I had already checked two and he assured me that it was no problem. I’m just praying that all 3 pieces are waiting on me in Atlanta!!! We boarded the KLM flight and they served us some kind of soup and some kind of salad for supper. Interesting. I had a few claustrophobic moments on the plane when they pulled the cart beside me and there was no room on either side of me, but I went back to sleep to dream about my date with the python and all was well.
This is officially Day 9 now and I am trying to finish entering my thoughts in the airport in Amsterdam. We saw the Amsterdam sunrise. It was nice and bright! We have about a 3 hour layover, just long enough to be here and shop a little, but not enough to be able to head out for a brief tour. Our group divides here. Some are headed back to DC after a few hour layover, and some to Chicago after a longer lay over. We will be flying back into Atlanta at some point? Who even knows what day it is now? We have already gained 2 hours back and will gain the other 6 back somewhere between here, Atlanta, and the ride home to Pell City. Since the process of leaving began, (even though I think some of us considered throwing our passports out the window so we could stay), I am ready to get home, see Paula, the kids, call the rest of the family, catch up on the church family and get things back to normal. No, things will never be normal again.
As with every trip I have taken, I know that a part of me will never leave Africa, the place of the fallen zebra that will stay in my mind forever, and a BIG part will always be with the Womble’s and Kibera Children’s Center, with those who prayed for me, not to mention a part of me that I hope will go home with each of the group. Thank you Br. David Ray for continuing to tell me at Camping Conference that I needed to go. A ‘Thank you’ to all of the group for putting up w/me and a special thanks to Tyler, the 16 year old who put up with the old man snoring on the trip J. Thanks to the Baltimore Mission and Company for all of your hard work, a BIG thanks to Bishop Ronald Martin- “Big Daddy and Miss Lynda” (I felt that I already knew you through the kindred spirit of Margaret Gaines), and to the whole DelMArva Region for the impact you have made on the ministry in Kibera, not to mention Michael Ray, and then the Chicago Boys - Michael and Pastor Sam Abbott. Pastor Sam, you were much better behaved when we worked Bible Quiz together at assembly. I guess I will wrap up for now. I’ve spent more money than I needed to in Amsterdam. What a TRIP this has all been. I hope that my words have just somewhat conveyed the depth of it all. And I will close with, yes, “I needed Africa more than Africa needed me!”
JUST A NOTE
For those who have been reading the blogs from day one, if you haven't already noticed, this site archives the earlier posts. So if you are signing in for the first time or you are wanting to reread the beginning of the journey, just look at the bottom of the blog for the link to the earlier posts.
Thanks!
Paula
Thanks!
Paula
DAY 7 CONTINUED Pastor Paul's Perspective
Day 7 Part 2
PS on day 6. I won my first game of Spider Solitaire before laying down Tuesday night.
After lunch we started out to go to one of the Masia Villages. Just a short distance out one of our guys spotted some cheetahs under a tree. Our guide, Raphael drove us to them so we get some pics and video footage. Little did we know what was in store for us! The cheetahs were beautiful under the tree, but after a couple of pics they started moving toward a herd of zebras passing through. Several of the group had been so anxious to see a kill. I consider myself a lover, not a fighter, (no comments please lol), so I wasn’t really sure that was on my list of things I wanted to see for this safari. I was content. I had seen lions, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and giraffes. (Not to mention my new found animal friends including the monkeys that nearly invaded our tent and other animals that I can’t even remember their names. What more could anyone ask for? Well, I was about to get more, like it or not. The cheetahs started chasing the zebra hoping to find some good lunch. Eventually one of the zebra made a horrible mistake and pulled away from the group. (Harvest Center folks, you will hear this message eventually and if you hear it in SS b4 u hear it from me, I may send her to Africa J .) After the zebra pulled away from the group, it was singled out and doom was surely to be its new found destiny. Just hours before I had thought of the hundreds of zebra we had seen and wondered if they needed to be thinned out. Now it didn’t sound like such a good idea. The lone zebra was a much easier target now. The three cheetahs zeroed on and tripped the zebra up, pulling it down. They clawed and worked and thought they had everything under control and in the midst of shouts of “get in”, “WOW”, “I’ve never seen this before”, and “Oh No!”, “YES”, and “Run zebra RUN”, the zebra got up and I prayed that it would be able to get away. Just beyond on the hillside, some of the zebra had come back to try to lend support by sending a beckoning call, but their call soon turned into a mournful cry. As the cheetahs got the zebra down again, starting in the back, (WARNING: Graphic descriptions that may not be suited for the weak stomached and the spiritually lukewarm!) between the hind legs, they started trying to pull the intestines out. I’m not sure how many times the zebra got up, but I realized that the last stand was at hand. The zebra on the hill could be NO help now. It was TOO late. He had made a wrong choice to pull away from the group, and was now paying a dear price, life. As the cheetahs continued their death grip and the zebra continued to suffer such a violent death, a hyena appeared on the scene to run off the cheetahs and take the zebra as prey for itself, just as if it deserved it. Almost immediately the crows and cranes began to gather to await their turn. Eventually one of the guides threw rocks that ran the hyena just a little ways into the distance, leaving the zebra now to be fair game for those who had killed it. The hyena continued to try to make another stand and came back again and again and again. The amazing part of all of this is, that it is said throughout Africa that cheetahs can’t take down a zebra. National Geographic would’ve loved to be in our spot today! Finally the cheetahs slowly moved back in to reclaim their kill as the hyena looked on, (not calling for help from other hyena’s but hoping to keep it all to himself), and the cranes, and the buzzards continue to gather by what looked like hundreds by now. We had finally seen and heard enough. I’m not sure if the video captured the sound of the hide tearing or not, but it was horrible, realizing that the zebra was still alive during so much of this. If only it had stayed with the group. But it didn’t and now the food chain that God created is being witnessed at its finest. On the flip side, had the zebra not died, others may not have lived. Everyone seemed to be waiting in line to get their share. After seeing enough, we headed on to the Masai village to visit. We were welcomed by the greeters and we were greeted with a welcome dance by the Mighty Masai warriors. Dressed in colorful garments they chanted, danced and marched around us with sounds that we will probably never understand. They yell, dance, and jump and jump, to welcome their guest. Some of the bravest of the guys were invited to join them in the jump and dance. You’ll have to see the video to know who those brave men were! Then it was on the inside of the village, watching our feet/shoes every step of the way. The cattle had already been herded in for the night. There was a puppy laying in the middle of the cows, asleep on one of them. We walked around piles of branches that would soon be pulled to the openings as the gate of protection for the night. We gathered around the cattle and the women of the village greeted us w/another song and dance. After they finished it was off to tour the homes. The houses are made of stick and mud basically. The roof had sticks, mud, grass, cow manure, and a combination of things over it to make it secure. About 7 of us were stepping in to the first room of the house which was very small. As soon as the door was blocked I had to get out quickly to breathe. The quarters were way too close! I got my breath and was ok to go back in for a minute. We moved to the next room, which was very dark and we were told to sit down. I finally sat down, and again when the doorway was blocked ---WHEW-- I had to get up and change places. I got to hear a little about the home and the traditions of the Masai, but I am looking forward to looking more up when I get home. After the tour of the house, it was down to the market. The tables consisted of much the same consistency of the roof. The Masai are also facing troubling times, and they were desperate to sell, but not desperate enough to come down to some of the prices that were offered. I left with a couple of what I hope were good deals, and we were back to the Jeep to clean our shoes and head back in to the camp. On our way back we continued to see zebra, gazelles, impala’s, and a host of other friends. When we got back to the sight of the kill, the vultures had clearly taken over by this point. There was quiet a crowd of onlookers to see what was taking place. I wonder if anything is left by now? We got back to camp in time to clean up quickly for supper. Supper was moved out into the “bush” as our farewell surprise and appreciation. A fire was built for grilling. We were served; cream of pumpkin soup, salad, rice, potatoes, spinach, a chicken dish, steak and chicken from the grill and a variety of desserts. By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY Miss Lynda. Today is the official day!
After the meal I spent a little time walking, looking at the handiwork of a sky filled with stars. Finally had to come in and start packing a few things up for tomorrow. We have the early morning game run at 6:30, back for breakfast and final purchases and packing, and zip our tents and head to the landing strip. After landing we are back to Kibera briefly to spend some final moments with the kids, get packed and loaded, and headed to the airport to stand in line and wait and wait and wait. I know that everything at home is in great shape, but I am sure looking forward to seeing some folks.
PS on day 6. I won my first game of Spider Solitaire before laying down Tuesday night.
After lunch we started out to go to one of the Masia Villages. Just a short distance out one of our guys spotted some cheetahs under a tree. Our guide, Raphael drove us to them so we get some pics and video footage. Little did we know what was in store for us! The cheetahs were beautiful under the tree, but after a couple of pics they started moving toward a herd of zebras passing through. Several of the group had been so anxious to see a kill. I consider myself a lover, not a fighter, (no comments please lol), so I wasn’t really sure that was on my list of things I wanted to see for this safari. I was content. I had seen lions, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and giraffes. (Not to mention my new found animal friends including the monkeys that nearly invaded our tent and other animals that I can’t even remember their names. What more could anyone ask for? Well, I was about to get more, like it or not. The cheetahs started chasing the zebra hoping to find some good lunch. Eventually one of the zebra made a horrible mistake and pulled away from the group. (Harvest Center folks, you will hear this message eventually and if you hear it in SS b4 u hear it from me, I may send her to Africa J .) After the zebra pulled away from the group, it was singled out and doom was surely to be its new found destiny. Just hours before I had thought of the hundreds of zebra we had seen and wondered if they needed to be thinned out. Now it didn’t sound like such a good idea. The lone zebra was a much easier target now. The three cheetahs zeroed on and tripped the zebra up, pulling it down. They clawed and worked and thought they had everything under control and in the midst of shouts of “get in”, “WOW”, “I’ve never seen this before”, and “Oh No!”, “YES”, and “Run zebra RUN”, the zebra got up and I prayed that it would be able to get away. Just beyond on the hillside, some of the zebra had come back to try to lend support by sending a beckoning call, but their call soon turned into a mournful cry. As the cheetahs got the zebra down again, starting in the back, (WARNING: Graphic descriptions that may not be suited for the weak stomached and the spiritually lukewarm!) between the hind legs, they started trying to pull the intestines out. I’m not sure how many times the zebra got up, but I realized that the last stand was at hand. The zebra on the hill could be NO help now. It was TOO late. He had made a wrong choice to pull away from the group, and was now paying a dear price, life. As the cheetahs continued their death grip and the zebra continued to suffer such a violent death, a hyena appeared on the scene to run off the cheetahs and take the zebra as prey for itself, just as if it deserved it. Almost immediately the crows and cranes began to gather to await their turn. Eventually one of the guides threw rocks that ran the hyena just a little ways into the distance, leaving the zebra now to be fair game for those who had killed it. The hyena continued to try to make another stand and came back again and again and again. The amazing part of all of this is, that it is said throughout Africa that cheetahs can’t take down a zebra. National Geographic would’ve loved to be in our spot today! Finally the cheetahs slowly moved back in to reclaim their kill as the hyena looked on, (not calling for help from other hyena’s but hoping to keep it all to himself), and the cranes, and the buzzards continue to gather by what looked like hundreds by now. We had finally seen and heard enough. I’m not sure if the video captured the sound of the hide tearing or not, but it was horrible, realizing that the zebra was still alive during so much of this. If only it had stayed with the group. But it didn’t and now the food chain that God created is being witnessed at its finest. On the flip side, had the zebra not died, others may not have lived. Everyone seemed to be waiting in line to get their share. After seeing enough, we headed on to the Masai village to visit. We were welcomed by the greeters and we were greeted with a welcome dance by the Mighty Masai warriors. Dressed in colorful garments they chanted, danced and marched around us with sounds that we will probably never understand. They yell, dance, and jump and jump, to welcome their guest. Some of the bravest of the guys were invited to join them in the jump and dance. You’ll have to see the video to know who those brave men were! Then it was on the inside of the village, watching our feet/shoes every step of the way. The cattle had already been herded in for the night. There was a puppy laying in the middle of the cows, asleep on one of them. We walked around piles of branches that would soon be pulled to the openings as the gate of protection for the night. We gathered around the cattle and the women of the village greeted us w/another song and dance. After they finished it was off to tour the homes. The houses are made of stick and mud basically. The roof had sticks, mud, grass, cow manure, and a combination of things over it to make it secure. About 7 of us were stepping in to the first room of the house which was very small. As soon as the door was blocked I had to get out quickly to breathe. The quarters were way too close! I got my breath and was ok to go back in for a minute. We moved to the next room, which was very dark and we were told to sit down. I finally sat down, and again when the doorway was blocked ---WHEW-- I had to get up and change places. I got to hear a little about the home and the traditions of the Masai, but I am looking forward to looking more up when I get home. After the tour of the house, it was down to the market. The tables consisted of much the same consistency of the roof. The Masai are also facing troubling times, and they were desperate to sell, but not desperate enough to come down to some of the prices that were offered. I left with a couple of what I hope were good deals, and we were back to the Jeep to clean our shoes and head back in to the camp. On our way back we continued to see zebra, gazelles, impala’s, and a host of other friends. When we got back to the sight of the kill, the vultures had clearly taken over by this point. There was quiet a crowd of onlookers to see what was taking place. I wonder if anything is left by now? We got back to camp in time to clean up quickly for supper. Supper was moved out into the “bush” as our farewell surprise and appreciation. A fire was built for grilling. We were served; cream of pumpkin soup, salad, rice, potatoes, spinach, a chicken dish, steak and chicken from the grill and a variety of desserts. By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY Miss Lynda. Today is the official day!
After the meal I spent a little time walking, looking at the handiwork of a sky filled with stars. Finally had to come in and start packing a few things up for tomorrow. We have the early morning game run at 6:30, back for breakfast and final purchases and packing, and zip our tents and head to the landing strip. After landing we are back to Kibera briefly to spend some final moments with the kids, get packed and loaded, and headed to the airport to stand in line and wait and wait and wait. I know that everything at home is in great shape, but I am sure looking forward to seeing some folks.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
DAY 7 Partial Pastor Paul's Perspective
Day 7
And on the 7th day God rested, but we didn’t. We wanted to take advantage of every opportunity we had. Our wake up call came about 5:50 as hot chocolate & cookies were left on the porch of our tent. I did a quick hair wet down, tooth brushing and we headed for the 6:30 game drive. We saw elephants quickly into the drive followed by hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, lions in a drove just waking up playfully, and then we saw it, the biggest of all right in front of us, 2 mother elephants, each with 2 babies. Phenomenal!
We continued to see impalas, gazelles, and multiple other animals and birds. We came in for breakfast about 8:30, a good meal consisting of juices, fruit, omelets, crepes/pancakes, bacon, sausage, and cheeses. Got a text from Paula during breakfast that she was headed back in to the house after she and the praise team doing the music at The River, Guntersville COG. We went back out after breakfast and saw the river lined with hippos, hills full of zebra, gazelles, wart hogs, and impalas. We were able to get out of the jeep at one point near the river. The river was filled w/hippos and a couple of crocodiles were close by. I was doing pretty good until someone grabbed my leg! I know I probably screamed like a girl. I will have to edit that portion of video. I’m just thankful that it was a sanctified moment. I think we had a very productive morning and mid morning drive. We came back in for lunch; salads, soup, grilled steak & chicken, stir fry veggies, fried potatoes & rice. Everything was good. I know I am gaining weight on this trip. Not good! Gonna try to get this sent out if I can get the internet stick and will finish day 7 hopefully tonite. For the afternoon drive we are heading to a Masai Village. They are the tribe that owns the area that we are now in. I’m looking forward to experiencing some more of the culture.
To Be Continued:
And on the 7th day God rested, but we didn’t. We wanted to take advantage of every opportunity we had. Our wake up call came about 5:50 as hot chocolate & cookies were left on the porch of our tent. I did a quick hair wet down, tooth brushing and we headed for the 6:30 game drive. We saw elephants quickly into the drive followed by hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, lions in a drove just waking up playfully, and then we saw it, the biggest of all right in front of us, 2 mother elephants, each with 2 babies. Phenomenal!
We continued to see impalas, gazelles, and multiple other animals and birds. We came in for breakfast about 8:30, a good meal consisting of juices, fruit, omelets, crepes/pancakes, bacon, sausage, and cheeses. Got a text from Paula during breakfast that she was headed back in to the house after she and the praise team doing the music at The River, Guntersville COG. We went back out after breakfast and saw the river lined with hippos, hills full of zebra, gazelles, wart hogs, and impalas. We were able to get out of the jeep at one point near the river. The river was filled w/hippos and a couple of crocodiles were close by. I was doing pretty good until someone grabbed my leg! I know I probably screamed like a girl. I will have to edit that portion of video. I’m just thankful that it was a sanctified moment. I think we had a very productive morning and mid morning drive. We came back in for lunch; salads, soup, grilled steak & chicken, stir fry veggies, fried potatoes & rice. Everything was good. I know I am gaining weight on this trip. Not good! Gonna try to get this sent out if I can get the internet stick and will finish day 7 hopefully tonite. For the afternoon drive we are heading to a Masai Village. They are the tribe that owns the area that we are now in. I’m looking forward to experiencing some more of the culture.
To Be Continued:
DAY 6 Pastor Paul's Perspective
Day 6 (incomplete version)
After finally getting to sleep around 2:30 am, after being so wound up after the service AND trying to copy pictures from the camera to the laptop, I got up about 7:20 am to finish packing and get ready for the flight to the Safari. I finished, grabbed a bite of breakfast and we headed to the airport. NOT Nairobi International, but a small airport not far from us, that specializes in Safari drop offs. We had a short delay as they had to split the group up, and then we were on to the plane. An 18 seater if my memory is correct. We flew at an altitude of 10,000 feet. WOW! After take off, looking down, we could see everything. Amazingly not too far from us there were large estates with swimming pools, huge yards, etc… Then everything started to look like doll houses, then we never went any higher and I starting feeling not so great! Some air in the face and closing my eyes helped, but I was sure thankful when we finally landed in the middle of big field about 45 minutes later. We were greeted by The Intrepid Safari Company (got a killer deal btw from what I understand) and zebras. The equator sun was scorching hot. Thank God for Sunscreen 50, that I protested about (oops, hope Paula doesn’t read this)! (By the way, did I tell you how proud I am of Harvest Center’s kids for rocking at State Jr. Talent last Saturday? GO HC!!!) On the 20 - 30 minute jeep ride to our “TENTS” , we saw what appeared to be millions of wild animals! Will have to continue this part when I can get the pics, video and interpreter. When we arrived we were greeted with juice and then I learned to play some African rock/hole game (mancala)? It’s GREAT! After the whole group arrived, we were treated to a lunch buffet. Excellent food. Then we made our way to our tents. You’ll just have to see to believe. Never dreamed I’d be sleeping in a tent in Kenya, Africa, near the Tanzania border!
To name a few, between the ride from the landing strip and the afternoon safari, we have seen zebras, crocodile, hippo, birds (can’t remember names), gazelles, impalas , to fus? , buffalo, bush babies, lions, (one group saw a lion in a tree! I still wonder if they pulled that pic off the internet lol), giraffes and a host of friends. I am hearing something howling now and not sure that I even want to know what it is!!! Our electricity is on from 5am-4pm, and 6pm-midnight. I am thankful for the wind up radio and flash light! We have hot water from 5:30-8am & 5:30-8pm.
Supper was good, we saw a Masai native dance that I didn’t get on video. I was hoping they would sing Happy Birthday to Lynda Martin and join all the others who have, as she gets ready to celebrate tomorrow. Listening to the crickets chirp, frogs do what they do, and whatever other creatures are outside our tent doing what they do?
Gonna try to get in bed before lights out (brings back memories from camp- maybe we just need to pull the plug and be sure its lights out ha ha). Will complete this soon I hope. And congrats to Sam & Tori on the new baby girl! Can’t wait to see and hold her!
After finally getting to sleep around 2:30 am, after being so wound up after the service AND trying to copy pictures from the camera to the laptop, I got up about 7:20 am to finish packing and get ready for the flight to the Safari. I finished, grabbed a bite of breakfast and we headed to the airport. NOT Nairobi International, but a small airport not far from us, that specializes in Safari drop offs. We had a short delay as they had to split the group up, and then we were on to the plane. An 18 seater if my memory is correct. We flew at an altitude of 10,000 feet. WOW! After take off, looking down, we could see everything. Amazingly not too far from us there were large estates with swimming pools, huge yards, etc… Then everything started to look like doll houses, then we never went any higher and I starting feeling not so great! Some air in the face and closing my eyes helped, but I was sure thankful when we finally landed in the middle of big field about 45 minutes later. We were greeted by The Intrepid Safari Company (got a killer deal btw from what I understand) and zebras. The equator sun was scorching hot. Thank God for Sunscreen 50, that I protested about (oops, hope Paula doesn’t read this)! (By the way, did I tell you how proud I am of Harvest Center’s kids for rocking at State Jr. Talent last Saturday? GO HC!!!) On the 20 - 30 minute jeep ride to our “TENTS” , we saw what appeared to be millions of wild animals! Will have to continue this part when I can get the pics, video and interpreter. When we arrived we were greeted with juice and then I learned to play some African rock/hole game (mancala)? It’s GREAT! After the whole group arrived, we were treated to a lunch buffet. Excellent food. Then we made our way to our tents. You’ll just have to see to believe. Never dreamed I’d be sleeping in a tent in Kenya, Africa, near the Tanzania border!
To name a few, between the ride from the landing strip and the afternoon safari, we have seen zebras, crocodile, hippo, birds (can’t remember names), gazelles, impalas , to fus? , buffalo, bush babies, lions, (one group saw a lion in a tree! I still wonder if they pulled that pic off the internet lol), giraffes and a host of friends. I am hearing something howling now and not sure that I even want to know what it is!!! Our electricity is on from 5am-4pm, and 6pm-midnight. I am thankful for the wind up radio and flash light! We have hot water from 5:30-8am & 5:30-8pm.
Supper was good, we saw a Masai native dance that I didn’t get on video. I was hoping they would sing Happy Birthday to Lynda Martin and join all the others who have, as she gets ready to celebrate tomorrow. Listening to the crickets chirp, frogs do what they do, and whatever other creatures are outside our tent doing what they do?
Gonna try to get in bed before lights out (brings back memories from camp- maybe we just need to pull the plug and be sure its lights out ha ha). Will complete this soon I hope. And congrats to Sam & Tori on the new baby girl! Can’t wait to see and hold her!
Day 5 REVISED Pastor Paul's Perspective
Day 5 (As complete as possible)
Got to talk to Paula and the kids early. We had a day to sleep in, but it was pleasant waking up early to talk them just after they got in from church. Early for me, Late for them.
I went back to bed and when the alarm went off played the snooze game until it quit playing. I won & went back to sleep. I woke up late, just minutes before we were supposed to leave to walk thru the slums. I got ready as quickly as I got and grabbed a bite of peanut butter so I could take my malaria tablet and Aleve. (Back and nerve have done exceptionally well on the trip).
Walked thru Kibera slums: Indescribable; One of the first houses we came to was occupied by church members. I was very humbled as we walked into the two room mud hut, the rooms separated by a sheet. While we were visiting in this home part of the group was visiting next door and having prayer for a lady. We had a prayer and sang a song of blessing before we stepped out. We walked through part of the area and then went in and prayed for one of the church members mothers who has aids. She had also had sugery recently on her stomach and had fallen against the speakers at the church on Saturday when the chaos broke out. She had a sparkle in her eyes and was so appreciative of the visit and prayer. We continued our journey through the slums, discreetly taking pictures along the way, not wanting to invade the privacy of those who live there. There is no possible way to describe the poverty of the area. Sewage runs freely, there is little or no electricity, no running water and the access to water is now far away for the part of the slum that we were walking in. There were children playing in the dirt, in the water, everywhere. The average age of the residents is 12 years old. Aids, incest, disease, and violence are rampant in the area. There were areas that were almost impassible due to the narrow passage ways, steep hills, sand and rocks, and sewage flowing in the area. Outhouses were scattered, but only consisted of a small hut type structure with a hole dug in the floor. There were pits dug next to the doors of the homes for building fires to cook. Several had clothing, washed by hand, hanging on the clothes lines. We passed a few shops featuring items such as soft drinks, bananas, and collards (sukuma). Again words and not even pictures can do justice to the living conditions of these people. To me, the walk back seemed much longer, awakened to a fresh awareness of the great needs of the area. When we got back we were told to take off our shoes and they would have them cleaned for us by some of the workers and students, another humbling experience.
When we got back we spent some time talking and defragging and then it was lunch time on the Womble’s patio. A nice breeze was blowing as we set down to the meal that had been prepared for us: Fruit salad, (mango, paw paw, pineapple), Sukuma (Collards) & Ugali, Potatoes, Fried Chicken. The meal was wonderful! After we ate we prepared to take the rented bus into town to do some shopping at one of the markets. One of the best flea markets in Nairobi is only open now on the weekends. We arrived at the market and were immediately meet by peddlers with the best deals in town. My only concern was that their trinkets were probably made in China. The market was filled with shops of all kinds and every owner tried to coerce us into their establishments. There were just about any kind of native items that you can imagine; hand made dolls, pottery, carvings, linen accessories, knives, jewelry, etc… Our time was somewhat limited so we had to hurry through to try to make a few purchases. Of course every shop keeper assured us they had the best deals. There was a lot of “bargaining” going on and I don’t think I had an offer refused when I told them to forget it, that was all I could pay, and started to walk away. We finally boarded the bus at 4:30 instead of 4 and headed back to Kibera. About 4:50 the bus went dead in the middle of the road still in downtown Nairobi. Eventually someone had to push us off in reverse. It was an experience sitting still in the middle of Nairobi 5pm rush traffic. We were thankful to finally be back on the road. After returning to the Kids Center, we started setting up for “Christmas in March” for the kids. It was amazing to see all the items that had been brought for the kids and for the school. Even more amazing was the joy on their faces as they got to come through by grades and load their bags. I have never seen kids so excited about receiving items such as tooth brushes, flip
flops, pencils, pens, notebooks, candy, nail polish, matchbox cars, hair clips, skirts, etc… There were also supplies for the school; paper, pens, first aid supplies, lotions, creams, soap, toothpaste. After all the gifts were presented to the children as they passed through in an orderly line, they were presented with their new uniforms, supplies by donations from the DelMArVA region. The Martins’ had also raised money through their region to buy 2 new lawnmowers, 2 new industrial dryers for the rainy season, and other supplies needed by the Womble’s and the school. The children and the Womble’s were so grateful for the much needed items and the things that may not have been necessities, but brought so much joy to the orphans. The orphans stories are heartbreaking! There is Immaculate who woke up one morning and told the people that she was staying with that “she had to go to her people”. She was 3 maybe 4 at the time. After being there for services she left, but Debra Womble sent someone to find her, to bring her back “to her people”. They couldn’t find any relatives for her, only the people that she occasionally spent the night with. So many of their lives are filled with no living family members, sexual abuse such as rape, incest, others were sold out for prostitution before they were five years old. To hear some of their stories, and then see the glow on their faces makes it even more special. Gideon, the minister of music, was also presented with a saxophone, a trumpet, and a flute. After all the presentations, we went downstairs for a supper of spaghetti and lunch leftovers. Immediately following supper, the kids had planned a surprise birthday party for Sis. Lynda Martin, First Lady of the COG Delmarva (Administrative Bishop’s wife). They had decorated the room with streamers, balloons, Happy Birthday streamers, and BIG cards that they had made for her. When she came in and they yelled surprise, the school band played and followed with a festive time of celebration. You’ll have to see the video to capture the celebratory spirit of the evening. When that began to die down, the kids were all given Coca Cola and cookies, compliments of the Martin’s. Again, to see the looks on the faces and the grateful hearts for things that our children take so far granted! The biggest surprise and blessing of the evening was yet to come, and it wasn’t in what was being given to the kids and the Womble’s. It was what they were giving back to us. The group was called to the front to sit on the benches that they spread across the front of the room. Then they began to tell how thankful they were for all that had been done for them, and they wanted to do something for us. Realizing that they had little or no resources to present us with gifts, I was NOT prepared for what was about to take place! The Womble’s, the staff, and the children gathered in a circle around us and began to pray for each of us. Some prayed in Swahili, some in perfect English, some in broken English, some in tongues (and amazingly it’s not so hard to tell the difference J ) . It was more humbling than you can ever imagine without experiencing it, to hear these children pray for each of us. Time and time again I heard heart wrenching prayers of “Father bless Pastor Paul and his wife and his“fam a lee”, thank you for sending them to us. Bless them with health, with strength, keep them from the hand of the “een e mee”. The prayers went on and on as others continued to pray for each of us. They didn’t just say prayers over us, the children PRAYED and cried out to God on our behalf. Not just a short obligatory prayer, but prayers with such passion and tears crying out to God for us. I can’t remember a time in my life when I have ever been any more broken. I have never understood the words in the old hymn, “for such a worm as I”, but I felt that low or lower, and so unworthy of the love that these children were pouring back to us. When many finished praying for us, maybe 45 minutes later? Who knows? Time didn’t matter any more at that point; they gathered around the walls and continued to pray and intercede, some with groanings that could not be uttered. I wondered how God could love me in my selfishness so many times, when they were giving all that they had! May God help our children and adults to learn to pray with the same fervency. As the praying began so settle down, the voices began to sing, “One more time” (will have to share more words later) (the computer screen has gotten blurry for some reason, must be this Kenyan Power LOL). I just wanted to get in the floor and sink as low as I could go and thank God for all His blessings in spite of my unworthiness. As for me, I know I can never be the same after that night!!!When we finally gathered some composure back, the Mission Baltimore kids (one of those Kayla, was born in Clanton, attended Oneonta Worship Center COG, and is now children’s pastor in Maryland!) continued with Kids Krusade. During that time I went back to the room to pack for the early morning flight to the Safari.
Got to talk to Paula and the kids early. We had a day to sleep in, but it was pleasant waking up early to talk them just after they got in from church. Early for me, Late for them.
I went back to bed and when the alarm went off played the snooze game until it quit playing. I won & went back to sleep. I woke up late, just minutes before we were supposed to leave to walk thru the slums. I got ready as quickly as I got and grabbed a bite of peanut butter so I could take my malaria tablet and Aleve. (Back and nerve have done exceptionally well on the trip).
Walked thru Kibera slums: Indescribable; One of the first houses we came to was occupied by church members. I was very humbled as we walked into the two room mud hut, the rooms separated by a sheet. While we were visiting in this home part of the group was visiting next door and having prayer for a lady. We had a prayer and sang a song of blessing before we stepped out. We walked through part of the area and then went in and prayed for one of the church members mothers who has aids. She had also had sugery recently on her stomach and had fallen against the speakers at the church on Saturday when the chaos broke out. She had a sparkle in her eyes and was so appreciative of the visit and prayer. We continued our journey through the slums, discreetly taking pictures along the way, not wanting to invade the privacy of those who live there. There is no possible way to describe the poverty of the area. Sewage runs freely, there is little or no electricity, no running water and the access to water is now far away for the part of the slum that we were walking in. There were children playing in the dirt, in the water, everywhere. The average age of the residents is 12 years old. Aids, incest, disease, and violence are rampant in the area. There were areas that were almost impassible due to the narrow passage ways, steep hills, sand and rocks, and sewage flowing in the area. Outhouses were scattered, but only consisted of a small hut type structure with a hole dug in the floor. There were pits dug next to the doors of the homes for building fires to cook. Several had clothing, washed by hand, hanging on the clothes lines. We passed a few shops featuring items such as soft drinks, bananas, and collards (sukuma). Again words and not even pictures can do justice to the living conditions of these people. To me, the walk back seemed much longer, awakened to a fresh awareness of the great needs of the area. When we got back we were told to take off our shoes and they would have them cleaned for us by some of the workers and students, another humbling experience.
When we got back we spent some time talking and defragging and then it was lunch time on the Womble’s patio. A nice breeze was blowing as we set down to the meal that had been prepared for us: Fruit salad, (mango, paw paw, pineapple), Sukuma (Collards) & Ugali, Potatoes, Fried Chicken. The meal was wonderful! After we ate we prepared to take the rented bus into town to do some shopping at one of the markets. One of the best flea markets in Nairobi is only open now on the weekends. We arrived at the market and were immediately meet by peddlers with the best deals in town. My only concern was that their trinkets were probably made in China. The market was filled with shops of all kinds and every owner tried to coerce us into their establishments. There were just about any kind of native items that you can imagine; hand made dolls, pottery, carvings, linen accessories, knives, jewelry, etc… Our time was somewhat limited so we had to hurry through to try to make a few purchases. Of course every shop keeper assured us they had the best deals. There was a lot of “bargaining” going on and I don’t think I had an offer refused when I told them to forget it, that was all I could pay, and started to walk away. We finally boarded the bus at 4:30 instead of 4 and headed back to Kibera. About 4:50 the bus went dead in the middle of the road still in downtown Nairobi. Eventually someone had to push us off in reverse. It was an experience sitting still in the middle of Nairobi 5pm rush traffic. We were thankful to finally be back on the road. After returning to the Kids Center, we started setting up for “Christmas in March” for the kids. It was amazing to see all the items that had been brought for the kids and for the school. Even more amazing was the joy on their faces as they got to come through by grades and load their bags. I have never seen kids so excited about receiving items such as tooth brushes, flip
flops, pencils, pens, notebooks, candy, nail polish, matchbox cars, hair clips, skirts, etc… There were also supplies for the school; paper, pens, first aid supplies, lotions, creams, soap, toothpaste. After all the gifts were presented to the children as they passed through in an orderly line, they were presented with their new uniforms, supplies by donations from the DelMArVA region. The Martins’ had also raised money through their region to buy 2 new lawnmowers, 2 new industrial dryers for the rainy season, and other supplies needed by the Womble’s and the school. The children and the Womble’s were so grateful for the much needed items and the things that may not have been necessities, but brought so much joy to the orphans. The orphans stories are heartbreaking! There is Immaculate who woke up one morning and told the people that she was staying with that “she had to go to her people”. She was 3 maybe 4 at the time. After being there for services she left, but Debra Womble sent someone to find her, to bring her back “to her people”. They couldn’t find any relatives for her, only the people that she occasionally spent the night with. So many of their lives are filled with no living family members, sexual abuse such as rape, incest, others were sold out for prostitution before they were five years old. To hear some of their stories, and then see the glow on their faces makes it even more special. Gideon, the minister of music, was also presented with a saxophone, a trumpet, and a flute. After all the presentations, we went downstairs for a supper of spaghetti and lunch leftovers. Immediately following supper, the kids had planned a surprise birthday party for Sis. Lynda Martin, First Lady of the COG Delmarva (Administrative Bishop’s wife). They had decorated the room with streamers, balloons, Happy Birthday streamers, and BIG cards that they had made for her. When she came in and they yelled surprise, the school band played and followed with a festive time of celebration. You’ll have to see the video to capture the celebratory spirit of the evening. When that began to die down, the kids were all given Coca Cola and cookies, compliments of the Martin’s. Again, to see the looks on the faces and the grateful hearts for things that our children take so far granted! The biggest surprise and blessing of the evening was yet to come, and it wasn’t in what was being given to the kids and the Womble’s. It was what they were giving back to us. The group was called to the front to sit on the benches that they spread across the front of the room. Then they began to tell how thankful they were for all that had been done for them, and they wanted to do something for us. Realizing that they had little or no resources to present us with gifts, I was NOT prepared for what was about to take place! The Womble’s, the staff, and the children gathered in a circle around us and began to pray for each of us. Some prayed in Swahili, some in perfect English, some in broken English, some in tongues (and amazingly it’s not so hard to tell the difference J ) . It was more humbling than you can ever imagine without experiencing it, to hear these children pray for each of us. Time and time again I heard heart wrenching prayers of “Father bless Pastor Paul and his wife and his“fam a lee”, thank you for sending them to us. Bless them with health, with strength, keep them from the hand of the “een e mee”. The prayers went on and on as others continued to pray for each of us. They didn’t just say prayers over us, the children PRAYED and cried out to God on our behalf. Not just a short obligatory prayer, but prayers with such passion and tears crying out to God for us. I can’t remember a time in my life when I have ever been any more broken. I have never understood the words in the old hymn, “for such a worm as I”, but I felt that low or lower, and so unworthy of the love that these children were pouring back to us. When many finished praying for us, maybe 45 minutes later? Who knows? Time didn’t matter any more at that point; they gathered around the walls and continued to pray and intercede, some with groanings that could not be uttered. I wondered how God could love me in my selfishness so many times, when they were giving all that they had! May God help our children and adults to learn to pray with the same fervency. As the praying began so settle down, the voices began to sing, “One more time” (will have to share more words later) (the computer screen has gotten blurry for some reason, must be this Kenyan Power LOL). I just wanted to get in the floor and sink as low as I could go and thank God for all His blessings in spite of my unworthiness. As for me, I know I can never be the same after that night!!!When we finally gathered some composure back, the Mission Baltimore kids (one of those Kayla, was born in Clanton, attended Oneonta Worship Center COG, and is now children’s pastor in Maryland!) continued with Kids Krusade. During that time I went back to the room to pack for the early morning flight to the Safari.
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