Troubles in Kenya

My heart has been so heavy this past month. It's taken much energy for me to write a blog message. It was a year ago that I was celebrating Christmas with the children. My emotions over this past month have felt bittersweet. I am absolutely happy to be back in my country. I'm happy to be with my family, my friends and my little furry friends. I'm elated that Jason has a new band and made a new album. I had a wonderful Christmas and New Year with my family and friends. But I think about the kids at Terry's Orphanage every day. I truly believe that I miss them more now than when I left Kenya. I think about all the suffering that others endure on a daily, hourly, and moment by moment basis. I'm counting the days I'll be able to return to see their bright faces (I'm hoping to return for a few weeks during our summer-maybe July or August). And if it's not enough that a developing country like Kenya has suffering, it's been exasperated by the violence from the most recent political events.

Today's news reads: January 3, 2008

"This warden message is being issued to alert American citizens in Kenya to an ongoing political rally. The rally is being organized by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and is attracting large crowds and a significant police presence in and around Uhuru Park in central Nairobi. The rally is disrupting transportation and commerce. Currently, the main thoroughfare to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is blocked and not passable. Similar rallies and other large-scale gatherings may also occur in other cities throughout Kenya."

Leah wrote me on January 2, 2008. She said, "My darling, we miss you too. Right now Kenya is at war, I have sneaked to the office to read mail, the best thing for now would be to send me a text. My number is still the same. We are all safe for now but we dont know what will happen tomorrow. I love you my darling. Leah."

And my friend Wanja wrote to me this morning, saying "Thanks renee for your concern. I am fine and safe but am worried. our country is no longer the good country.No going to downtown no nothing. banks are closed, food stores etc. soon people are going to die of hunger...sad....talk to you later. wanja"

As a memory, I'd like to show a picture of my dear friend Wanja that visited her fiance & her family (and me) in November. And a couple of other pictures to remind us all of the children in Africa.

Much love to you all.