Kenya

Yesterday was a travel day.  Even though we only had two short flights (Bahir Dar to Addis Ababa and then to Nairobi), it seemed to take all day.  There are many more security checks and passport checks and customs checks than when flying across Canada!

We landed in Nairobi and by the time we got out of the airport it was very dark.  Thankfully our hosts, Peter and Alex, hadn't given up on us and we began the drive to the hotel, an hour from the airport.  At some point our driver was a bit lost but thanks to Google maps and a sharp eye for signs and obscure exits, he brought us safely to Brackenhurst Retreat and Conference Centre.

Wow!  It feels like we've stepped into another world.  It's a beautiful British colonial style retreat. The expansive grounds are covered with various trees and flower beds.  There are cottages spread out hither and yon, a large dining room and gathering space and many more buildings.  It's absolutely beautiful surrounded by such nature.

Today we got to see the regular Kenya.  We travelled along dusty, bumpy red dirt roads into a small village to attend church.  It was a small group but they were an enthusiastic bunch, singing and praising God with all their hearts and voices.  The pastor preached in English with translation into the local language (Kikuyu).  These people love the Lord, love to sing and before we knew it, three hours had passed!

After church we were invited for Kenyan tea with the pastor and from there out for lunch at a lovely restaurant.  The menu was barbecued goat with ugali (a cornmeal paste) irio (mashed potatoes and peas) and vegetable salad. It was delicious feast.  The kids ran off to play on the inflatable slide, trampoline and water bumper boats while we visited.  This was the get acquainted visit as a prelude to the tours we will do with them tomorrow and the next day.

View from our front porch

Dining Room

Peter from Partners Worldwide, Dave and Pastor Nicolas

Clockwise: BBQ Goat, tomato salad, ugali, irio, and french fries.