Monday, December 3, 2007

Bittersweet


Last night as Benja was dancing around with his pajama bottoms hiked up and belt cinched across his pouched-out belly pretending to be Santa Claus, he had the boys and myself laughing so hard that Siadi threw up. So much for bedtime! And I knew once again that I will miss these kids when I leave.

It does not seem possible that today is my last day here at the orphanage, but time has been quickly marching on these last few weeks, and so here we are. As I was walking with my Computer Class to the library, Josephat (love that kid) called (yelled) from Kindergarten to please come play with them—if only cloning was possible. Yes, I will miss these kids and the people here. This place has become a little haven and home in the midst of Africa.

It helps that I have 3 weeks of traveling and adventure ahead of me to ease the pain of leaving here. In fact, I’m quite excited about seeing more of this country, as well as part of Kenya. It’s to Nairobi for one week where I will be meeting up with friends, even some from California! Hiking Mt. Meru is next, then safari through Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Parks. I finish at the coast on Zanzibar island before heading back to the USA.

Today is a mix of emotions, but know it is hard to leave because my heart has grown a little more, which is really a good thing. But enough of the sappy stuff! Happy days to everyone and talk to you soon!

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thinking of you! I can't believe your time is over ... you won't soon be forgotten. You have touched those children in ways you will never know! I also know that Frank & Susan, are sooo thankful for all of your help! The saddness you feel in leaving - just shows that you have given 110% of your heart to your work there. Safe travels! - love lins

Ryan & Kari said...

Nice to read your blog. Enjoy your time in Africa. It will always stay with you. You will always appreciate things a bit more after an experience like this.

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing! Reading your stories bring a smile to the face and a tug on the heart strings. I am sure it will continue to be an experience that enriches your life and others. Thinking of you and would love to see pictures sometime! -D&M Siegel