Hi,
just a quick update, the internet has been a real pain recently I have had to source out another internet cafe. I promised myself that last night I would sit and write you an email but was so tired that it just didnt happen.
Last Thursday, I acquired a house guest, Mama Sweeties oldest daughter Grace who is 12. With the disruption of the clashes here in Kenya and the loss of her father etc etc, most of you know the story already..... her grades in school were not as hoped and she is attending extra holiday tuition in Nakuru, which is some way from her home. I now have Grace living with me for three weeks. She was very quiet but is now settling in well and even managing to make jokes and acting like a true 12 year old.
Moving on, let us all hiphip horray............. I had a HOT shower yesterday, well actually the story goes like this, Grace and I got home, hot, tired and very dusty and we still had water in the mains so I decided to test the showers, finding they worked I had planned on taking a shower after washing my clothes. That was the plan until I realised whilst washing my clothes that the shower in the bathroom was running.... Grace had beat me to it. Her face was a delight, a hot shower!!!! Needless to say I followed a micro second behind her, it was F A B! Catherine who is also staying at the house missed the shower though as by the time she got in from SCANN the mains had finished, but we told her how G R E A T it was !
I am expecting a volunteer to arrive sometime next week, he is someone who Yasmine from SCANN has arranged to visit and spend time at the project. That is all I know and he is down to stay with me for two weeks. All of you that were planning on visiting just to let you know, he will be my B&B guinea pig. Should be fun! At least it will be a bit of spends coming in before Christmas to put in the savings pot. If it goes well who knows the business may become multi national!
Today I spent the day sorting out new systems for SCANN for inventory and also sewing the uniforms that have gaping holes in the seams, my fingers are killing me, I really forgot how to appreciate the sewing machine while I had it. The boys are very healthy as the doctor has been attending to them in my absence with help from Anastasia one of the teachers as 'attending nurse'. Dr. Kuria was overjoyed with the additions of medical items that I managed to bring over with me, thanks to those concerned.
Friday here is a public holiday and I am planning on taking the day off, so far I am working every day and getting exhausted, not a good thing. I think all that souvenier eating in the UK has made me sluggish! Certainly not as fit as I used to be before I left here.
The weather is still hot and dry, although Monday we had some rain and managed to collect water for the parched plants. The animals are fine, although no sign of any eggs from the chickens yet, but alot of clucking!!!!
Love to you all, will spend more time next time working out what to write.
Take care and keep well.xxxxxxx
Susannah
Wednesday, 10 December 2008
Sunday, 7 December 2008
No name
Hi Guys, having so much trouble updating the 'friends list' for my emails it is driving me crazy! I hope you all get this, if not how will I know who isnt getting it??Ok here is todays email... you ready...
Good morning,
Well, after sitting in the internet yesterday and reading my welcomed emails, I began to write an email to you all, unfortunately the ‘stema’ (electricity) went off leaving me with a blank screen. I waited for the stema to come back on and then hotmail was playing up. So this morning at 7, after letting the dogs out for a run in the ‘compound’ and cooking uji (a kind of porridge, nothing like we know it) I find myself sat at the laptop composing an email to you in order to send later when in town.
As I don’t have my previous email to you I cant remember where we left off although I do remember I had a serious water problem…… or lack of. I called ‘my contact’ at the maji office and he told me he would come and look……… what struck me as amusing was that he was true to his word and the next afternoon he came and sorted the problem. They had been doing a lot of work on the pipes at the water station and it had resulted in a great deal of ‘dirt’ coming through and blocking the filter in the meter. This unblocked we now have water and pressure every other day. Today I hope to check that the large storage tank fills, this will prevent us being without water.
I have spent the week preparing card cut out decorations for the boys to paint and put up for Christmas, we leave it to the last minute as they disappear in a few days as momentos, so the later the better, same goes for the Christmas tree.
On Friday, 5th December it was John Ndolos Graduation from University. I was given one of the two tickets he had to attend and after being given directions on how to get there by matatu I was set. I got up at 6 as usual sorted the dogs, ‘bathed’, and put on a dress…… I know I don’t wear one very often, but needs must. I went with a bottle of drink, a book, some biscuits and some boiled sweets. I got into town by local matatu then went to the ‘stage’ to get the one for Egerton University. It was before 8am and already the Graduation atmosphere was alive, people selling cards and memorabilia in the street and around the matatu. It was obvious that everyone on the matatu was heading for graduation with their gowns and mortars in their bags and clean pressed suits on. The driver went like a ‘bat out of hell’ and we were all grateful to arrive in one piece after a couple of near misses on route. People on the matatu had complained that the price had been hiked for the day from 50ks to 80ks I wasn’t complaining as I was told it would probably be 100ks.
I started talking to a lad (George) on the seat beside me who had completed a Business Management course, he was very pleased but was telling me that the problem with university wasn’t doing the courses it was getting employment afterwards, I told him not to be disheartened and to take anything until he found what he was looking for, it would keep his mind busy and some money in his pocket. When I got of the matatu it struck me just how many people there were attending. The place heaved with graduates in gowns, families and friends, security was tight as they were expecting dignitaries. I walked with George as I was unable to get through on my phone to let John know I had arrived. We wound our way to the Graduation Square where I had a ticket for a seat, unfortunately, the placed was so packed that there were no seats left and standing space was like being in a tin of sardines.
I positioned myself under a tree and spent the next 3 hours scouring the crowds for John, the network still was not working and proceeded to not work for the whole day. I was beginning to feel like a freak with people stopping to stare at me and standing watching me when I caught sight of John making his was over to me, I cant say I wasn’t happy to see him, by the look on his face he was worried he wouldn’t find me too
John led the way to where he was sitting with this fellow grad students, now this was by no means and easy task, because he was in his gowns he was given lea way to accessing the square the fact that I was in tow was a problem because everyone let him squeeze through then they closed the space and I had to be pulled through as I was attached by the hand. He eventually left me at the edge of the graduates seating area under another tree. There was so much moving around and shuffling that I was soon not under the tree but in full sunshine, I had a brollie for a parasol but there were so many people it was impossible to put it up. I managed to stand for a while under the shade of a very tall Masai man in full dress who was standing beside me, that was until the sun moved round.
John had disappeared into a sea of black gowns and mortars, I stood observing the proceeding and marvelled at the number of graduates, I would estimate no less than 1000. It was a great event and when the role call was done and the celebrating began it was like festival time, the orchestra struck up and played Kenyan music and everyone sang and danced.
John found me again and we pushed our way to where he had arranged to meet his family, (his mother and 8 of his 10 siblings), in true Kenyan style theyweren’t there. He left me sitting on the grass under a tree while he went in search of them.
I was happy to sit quietly and relax reading my book, this was not to be, people came up to me asking to have their photo taken with me and their families….. I have never been celebrity status,as you will understand, and this was very weird, people then came joined me because they said I should not sit alone on this fine day……. Etc etc etc.
I was pleased to see John reappear after one and a half hours with his mother, his family still at large. John introduced his mother and whilst he went in further search of his siblings, his mother and I tried limited conversation with a lot of laughing and struggling with the language barrier.
When eventually the group was reunited it was now 4.30 we did introductions and photos and I said I would have to leave to get back to town. We all walked together towards the gates and I was ushered with the group to a white pick-up truck that was parked along with hundreds of other vehicles at the side of the road which was now a car park. Vehicles stopped, bumper to bumper in the traffic jam. A crate of soda was brought from the vehicle together with sweet buns, I can't say that I wasn’t happy at the sight, we all piled into the vehicle and I sat in the back with John and his younger brothers and sisters, I think in the end there were 9 of us in the back, we chatted and amused the kids and awaited opportunity to pull out of the parking space.
The journey back was interesting especially as John said his mother wouldn’t hear of me not going to the house for dinner. So I had been hijacked for a second time, the first was by Nick to visit his family and now John and his family. The journey to Lanet was interesting as there was so much traffic on the roads that we crawled along, I was obviously a sight-and-a-half squatting in the back of a packed pick-up, people stopped, pointed and called and waved at me. I was glad to get to the home as by now I needed the facilities and my legs and bottom were aching.
We had a lovely chicken stew and I wandered how Susanne lived with her remaining 6 children in the two roomed home.
I got home that evening exhausted but pleased that I had decided to attend, I decided to make a small photo album to celebrate the day and give it to John’s mother. The question now is what is John going to do with his Degree in Biomedical Science and Technology. He has looked into doing his Masters at Reading University but, that in itself poses problems with sponsorship to get him allowed to attend the University let alone many other issues.
Who knows what Kenya has to offer all these Graduates, lets hope it is a future.
Ok enough for now. I am fine and soon to head off to SCANN as the doctor is coming today to give the boys a talk before he holds his clinic, I know its Sunday but it is the only day during December that he is able to attend due to commitments. I have managed to light my first jiko (Stove) and cooked dinner last night, even managed to buy a packet of Crème Caramel in the supermarket so we had desert too…I am spoilt!!
It is going to be another hot day.
Love to you all,
(Kimberley hope you found the other legs to the Xmas tree and had fun with Mackenzie.
Paul-Simon and Missy hope you had a good night out and you celebrated your 6 years well.)
Take care of yourselves. I have now left Scann and am at the internet - Catherine has confirmed that my storage tank has just began filling so may manage a shower tonight, if the showers are working, it has been a while. I have my friend Mwangi the electrician on standby for a visit on Tuesday to check them over.
Susannah
Good morning,
Well, after sitting in the internet yesterday and reading my welcomed emails, I began to write an email to you all, unfortunately the ‘stema’ (electricity) went off leaving me with a blank screen. I waited for the stema to come back on and then hotmail was playing up. So this morning at 7, after letting the dogs out for a run in the ‘compound’ and cooking uji (a kind of porridge, nothing like we know it) I find myself sat at the laptop composing an email to you in order to send later when in town.
As I don’t have my previous email to you I cant remember where we left off although I do remember I had a serious water problem…… or lack of. I called ‘my contact’ at the maji office and he told me he would come and look……… what struck me as amusing was that he was true to his word and the next afternoon he came and sorted the problem. They had been doing a lot of work on the pipes at the water station and it had resulted in a great deal of ‘dirt’ coming through and blocking the filter in the meter. This unblocked we now have water and pressure every other day. Today I hope to check that the large storage tank fills, this will prevent us being without water.
I have spent the week preparing card cut out decorations for the boys to paint and put up for Christmas, we leave it to the last minute as they disappear in a few days as momentos, so the later the better, same goes for the Christmas tree.
On Friday, 5th December it was John Ndolos Graduation from University. I was given one of the two tickets he had to attend and after being given directions on how to get there by matatu I was set. I got up at 6 as usual sorted the dogs, ‘bathed’, and put on a dress…… I know I don’t wear one very often, but needs must. I went with a bottle of drink, a book, some biscuits and some boiled sweets. I got into town by local matatu then went to the ‘stage’ to get the one for Egerton University. It was before 8am and already the Graduation atmosphere was alive, people selling cards and memorabilia in the street and around the matatu. It was obvious that everyone on the matatu was heading for graduation with their gowns and mortars in their bags and clean pressed suits on. The driver went like a ‘bat out of hell’ and we were all grateful to arrive in one piece after a couple of near misses on route. People on the matatu had complained that the price had been hiked for the day from 50ks to 80ks I wasn’t complaining as I was told it would probably be 100ks.
I started talking to a lad (George) on the seat beside me who had completed a Business Management course, he was very pleased but was telling me that the problem with university wasn’t doing the courses it was getting employment afterwards, I told him not to be disheartened and to take anything until he found what he was looking for, it would keep his mind busy and some money in his pocket. When I got of the matatu it struck me just how many people there were attending. The place heaved with graduates in gowns, families and friends, security was tight as they were expecting dignitaries. I walked with George as I was unable to get through on my phone to let John know I had arrived. We wound our way to the Graduation Square where I had a ticket for a seat, unfortunately, the placed was so packed that there were no seats left and standing space was like being in a tin of sardines.
I positioned myself under a tree and spent the next 3 hours scouring the crowds for John, the network still was not working and proceeded to not work for the whole day. I was beginning to feel like a freak with people stopping to stare at me and standing watching me when I caught sight of John making his was over to me, I cant say I wasn’t happy to see him, by the look on his face he was worried he wouldn’t find me too
John led the way to where he was sitting with this fellow grad students, now this was by no means and easy task, because he was in his gowns he was given lea way to accessing the square the fact that I was in tow was a problem because everyone let him squeeze through then they closed the space and I had to be pulled through as I was attached by the hand. He eventually left me at the edge of the graduates seating area under another tree. There was so much moving around and shuffling that I was soon not under the tree but in full sunshine, I had a brollie for a parasol but there were so many people it was impossible to put it up. I managed to stand for a while under the shade of a very tall Masai man in full dress who was standing beside me, that was until the sun moved round.
John had disappeared into a sea of black gowns and mortars, I stood observing the proceeding and marvelled at the number of graduates, I would estimate no less than 1000. It was a great event and when the role call was done and the celebrating began it was like festival time, the orchestra struck up and played Kenyan music and everyone sang and danced.
John found me again and we pushed our way to where he had arranged to meet his family, (his mother and 8 of his 10 siblings), in true Kenyan style theyweren’t there. He left me sitting on the grass under a tree while he went in search of them.
I was happy to sit quietly and relax reading my book, this was not to be, people came up to me asking to have their photo taken with me and their families….. I have never been celebrity status,as you will understand, and this was very weird, people then came joined me because they said I should not sit alone on this fine day……. Etc etc etc.
I was pleased to see John reappear after one and a half hours with his mother, his family still at large. John introduced his mother and whilst he went in further search of his siblings, his mother and I tried limited conversation with a lot of laughing and struggling with the language barrier.
When eventually the group was reunited it was now 4.30 we did introductions and photos and I said I would have to leave to get back to town. We all walked together towards the gates and I was ushered with the group to a white pick-up truck that was parked along with hundreds of other vehicles at the side of the road which was now a car park. Vehicles stopped, bumper to bumper in the traffic jam. A crate of soda was brought from the vehicle together with sweet buns, I can't say that I wasn’t happy at the sight, we all piled into the vehicle and I sat in the back with John and his younger brothers and sisters, I think in the end there were 9 of us in the back, we chatted and amused the kids and awaited opportunity to pull out of the parking space.
The journey back was interesting especially as John said his mother wouldn’t hear of me not going to the house for dinner. So I had been hijacked for a second time, the first was by Nick to visit his family and now John and his family. The journey to Lanet was interesting as there was so much traffic on the roads that we crawled along, I was obviously a sight-and-a-half squatting in the back of a packed pick-up, people stopped, pointed and called and waved at me. I was glad to get to the home as by now I needed the facilities and my legs and bottom were aching.
We had a lovely chicken stew and I wandered how Susanne lived with her remaining 6 children in the two roomed home.
I got home that evening exhausted but pleased that I had decided to attend, I decided to make a small photo album to celebrate the day and give it to John’s mother. The question now is what is John going to do with his Degree in Biomedical Science and Technology. He has looked into doing his Masters at Reading University but, that in itself poses problems with sponsorship to get him allowed to attend the University let alone many other issues.
Who knows what Kenya has to offer all these Graduates, lets hope it is a future.
Ok enough for now. I am fine and soon to head off to SCANN as the doctor is coming today to give the boys a talk before he holds his clinic, I know its Sunday but it is the only day during December that he is able to attend due to commitments. I have managed to light my first jiko (Stove) and cooked dinner last night, even managed to buy a packet of Crème Caramel in the supermarket so we had desert too…I am spoilt!!
It is going to be another hot day.
Love to you all,
(Kimberley hope you found the other legs to the Xmas tree and had fun with Mackenzie.
Paul-Simon and Missy hope you had a good night out and you celebrated your 6 years well.)
Take care of yourselves. I have now left Scann and am at the internet - Catherine has confirmed that my storage tank has just began filling so may manage a shower tonight, if the showers are working, it has been a while. I have my friend Mwangi the electrician on standby for a visit on Tuesday to check them over.
Susannah
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
Hi there in cold UK
Hi there in cold UK,
Just to let you know we have had temperatures in the region of the 30's recently down to 24 yesterday, still nice and hot, at least now I can walk around without getting scorch marks on my feet!!!
Quick update, I am now the proud owner of two hens, one to make chicks and one for eating eggs, not sure the correct terms but that will do for now. Gibson (guard) has been busy building a hen house, must admit he has told me he is not good but he is better than any of the fundis (workmen) I had at the house. His cockerel has been showing a good deal of interest in the lovely birds!
I visited the vet recently concerning my 'hussy' dogs, we have so many dogs appearing in the garden (Compound) at night due to my dogs howling for them that I am getting no sleep. I had already enquired about having them spayed but it is costly and dangerous for the bitches, not all survive the op. I heard of an injection for dogs of the contraceptive kind. I went into a chemist (out here they deal with animals and humans!! Not to get them mixed of course!) I left with a quick discussion on the merit of inter muscular injections and the fact that it lasted 6 months, two syringes, two needles, and vials of liquid.
Needless to say I was shaking like a leaf by the time I got home with the thought that I would have to do this myself. I explained what was going to happen to Gibson and he appeared to have full confidence in me. He held the chained dog (Fatso first in case of any problems) head and shoulders between his legs looking back, I held the rump, gave it a sharp couple of slaps and whacked it in, took a bit of a shove of the needle but Fatso didn't notice a thing, forgot I had to depress the plunger too for a mo, so that had to be done slowly. That finished, Kim was next, no problem. I did however, keep checking on the dogs to make sure they were still OK during the afternoon and evening. They haven't quite stopped howling but I think they will get bored soon, maybe they are just happy to know I am home.
I have been busy at Scann, as usual nothing runs smoothly. I returned to be called in to sit in a meeting as mediator between the prefects and the staff, there had been issues brewing that needed nipping in the bud before all hell lets loose.
I have been told that I need to get a start on clipping the boys hair as no one has done them since I left, they look like real mop heads not sure if the clippers will manage. I have also been told that the pile of sewing and repairs is huge, I pointed out that would be a long slow process with no sewing machine (it walked with my other possessions for those that don't know). I am also busy sorting out things that we can do with the smaller boys to decorate the dining hall for christmas, I have managed to print off many pages of designs of angels, santas, reindeer, xmas trees ready for photocopying and enlarging on to card for them to paint. Should be fun, my son should remember the fun we had with paint last year......... nice.
The house is good, I have been out and bought a fridge as a necessity to keep food fresh as don't want to be ill again. Today I moaned at the water man who I always moan at....... I don't mind getting water every alternate day but if he is going to do that he needs to make sure the pressure on the day water is available is adequate for people to fill their storage tanks, basins, barrels, bowls, bottles, cups etc etc. I told him that the thin streak coming out of the tap was NOT acceptable for the community. A whole days filling only gives one 25 ltr tank, its useless when there is no water for the following day, we are catching overnight rain water to wash with......... Ok when it rains, no good when it doesnt. He promised he will come to the house and look at the problem tomorrow. He will probably want cake and chai too, should tell him there isn't enough water to wash the cups!!
Gibson and I managed to wash the dogs this morning with water from the roof overnight. I got soaked, using an old cup to scoop the water was such a good idea but such a slow job. I then went indoors, climbed into a basin of cold water for a 'bath', then washed my hair and then my clothes, nice combination. managed to make the water last and had some spare in the other basin for rinsing! My clothes never get that 'whiter than white' look so isn't a problem here, so long as they smell clean and the dust is washed off them.
Anyway, think it is time for me to leave you. Hope you are all happy and managing OK. Got to go or will have to sell house to pay for the emails!
Regards
Susannah
(Sorry if this is disjointed, the one I prepared and saved disappeared so this is the replacement)!
Just to let you know we have had temperatures in the region of the 30's recently down to 24 yesterday, still nice and hot, at least now I can walk around without getting scorch marks on my feet!!!
Quick update, I am now the proud owner of two hens, one to make chicks and one for eating eggs, not sure the correct terms but that will do for now. Gibson (guard) has been busy building a hen house, must admit he has told me he is not good but he is better than any of the fundis (workmen) I had at the house. His cockerel has been showing a good deal of interest in the lovely birds!
I visited the vet recently concerning my 'hussy' dogs, we have so many dogs appearing in the garden (Compound) at night due to my dogs howling for them that I am getting no sleep. I had already enquired about having them spayed but it is costly and dangerous for the bitches, not all survive the op. I heard of an injection for dogs of the contraceptive kind. I went into a chemist (out here they deal with animals and humans!! Not to get them mixed of course!) I left with a quick discussion on the merit of inter muscular injections and the fact that it lasted 6 months, two syringes, two needles, and vials of liquid.
Needless to say I was shaking like a leaf by the time I got home with the thought that I would have to do this myself. I explained what was going to happen to Gibson and he appeared to have full confidence in me. He held the chained dog (Fatso first in case of any problems) head and shoulders between his legs looking back, I held the rump, gave it a sharp couple of slaps and whacked it in, took a bit of a shove of the needle but Fatso didn't notice a thing, forgot I had to depress the plunger too for a mo, so that had to be done slowly. That finished, Kim was next, no problem. I did however, keep checking on the dogs to make sure they were still OK during the afternoon and evening. They haven't quite stopped howling but I think they will get bored soon, maybe they are just happy to know I am home.
I have been busy at Scann, as usual nothing runs smoothly. I returned to be called in to sit in a meeting as mediator between the prefects and the staff, there had been issues brewing that needed nipping in the bud before all hell lets loose.
I have been told that I need to get a start on clipping the boys hair as no one has done them since I left, they look like real mop heads not sure if the clippers will manage. I have also been told that the pile of sewing and repairs is huge, I pointed out that would be a long slow process with no sewing machine (it walked with my other possessions for those that don't know). I am also busy sorting out things that we can do with the smaller boys to decorate the dining hall for christmas, I have managed to print off many pages of designs of angels, santas, reindeer, xmas trees ready for photocopying and enlarging on to card for them to paint. Should be fun, my son should remember the fun we had with paint last year......... nice.
The house is good, I have been out and bought a fridge as a necessity to keep food fresh as don't want to be ill again. Today I moaned at the water man who I always moan at....... I don't mind getting water every alternate day but if he is going to do that he needs to make sure the pressure on the day water is available is adequate for people to fill their storage tanks, basins, barrels, bowls, bottles, cups etc etc. I told him that the thin streak coming out of the tap was NOT acceptable for the community. A whole days filling only gives one 25 ltr tank, its useless when there is no water for the following day, we are catching overnight rain water to wash with......... Ok when it rains, no good when it doesnt. He promised he will come to the house and look at the problem tomorrow. He will probably want cake and chai too, should tell him there isn't enough water to wash the cups!!
Gibson and I managed to wash the dogs this morning with water from the roof overnight. I got soaked, using an old cup to scoop the water was such a good idea but such a slow job. I then went indoors, climbed into a basin of cold water for a 'bath', then washed my hair and then my clothes, nice combination. managed to make the water last and had some spare in the other basin for rinsing! My clothes never get that 'whiter than white' look so isn't a problem here, so long as they smell clean and the dust is washed off them.
Anyway, think it is time for me to leave you. Hope you are all happy and managing OK. Got to go or will have to sell house to pay for the emails!
Regards
Susannah
(Sorry if this is disjointed, the one I prepared and saved disappeared so this is the replacement)!
Thursday, 27 November 2008
KENYA 3 - Landed Safe
Hi Everyone,
sorry it has been a few days since I arrived and no news from me.
Been so busy sorting things out in the house and getting re accustomed. The weather here is hot and dry.... just how I like it but the shamba and plants are suffering and now we only get water alternate days, and no pressure either.
Believe me or not but I woke up at 6am (as usual in Kenya) I had a cuppa and went back to bed after playing with the dogs. I sat for 3/4 hr and wrote a nice long email to you all and saved it on my memory stick. Nick came to pick me up to go to town to get a ......... wait for it........... F R I D G E........ and in the haste of locking up I left the memory stick at home. You will have to wait for another day..... maybe tomorrow...... who knows ..... this is Kenya after all!
Just needed to let you all know I am OK. Have taken this week to sort things out before going to SCANN, I know once I get back in the swing I won' t have time for getting house things replaced so decided to get that done first.
Love to you all.
Take care and thanks for the emails of good wishes at this difficult time
sorry it has been a few days since I arrived and no news from me.
Been so busy sorting things out in the house and getting re accustomed. The weather here is hot and dry.... just how I like it but the shamba and plants are suffering and now we only get water alternate days, and no pressure either.
Believe me or not but I woke up at 6am (as usual in Kenya) I had a cuppa and went back to bed after playing with the dogs. I sat for 3/4 hr and wrote a nice long email to you all and saved it on my memory stick. Nick came to pick me up to go to town to get a ......... wait for it........... F R I D G E........ and in the haste of locking up I left the memory stick at home. You will have to wait for another day..... maybe tomorrow...... who knows ..... this is Kenya after all!
Just needed to let you all know I am OK. Have taken this week to sort things out before going to SCANN, I know once I get back in the swing I won' t have time for getting house things replaced so decided to get that done first.
Love to you all.
Take care and thanks for the emails of good wishes at this difficult time
Saturday, 22 November 2008
Return with Trepidation - 'belated'
Hi Everyone,
I won’t say that my return to Kenya was filled with joy and excitement more with worry as I was not sure how I would react to returning after the house had been broken into and with new guard on site.
I shouldn’t have worried, I was met at the airport by Nick (my friendly taxi driver) Catherine (who had been staying at the house and a teacher at SCANN) and Anastasia (another teacher at SCANN). They had left Nakuru at 3am to make sure they arrived in time and didn’t get caught in any traffic, my plane had been delayed before I left and Kimberley (my daughter) had sent Nick a message to let him know. Unfortunately, immigration was so slow and so many people argued when they arrived at the desk that it was a long and painful process. It is far easier to do in the UK before you leave but as I wasn’t sure when I was coming back it made the process difficult, so I paid the price and patiently waited with my 50 USD!
By the time I got out there was only a handful of suitcases on the carousel and there were three very worried but happy faces waiting for me, they thought I had got lost or missed the plane.
After the hugs and jubilant jigging about we went outside, it was brilliant sunshine and very warm…….. you remember that don’t you…… ahhhhh sunshine and warmth!
The drive other than from the airport to Nakuru was smooth and traffic free so I managed (after a lot of conversation) to drift into a more comfortable sleep than on the plane.
My arrival at the house was boisterous, Kim and Fatso (the dogs) were howling when they heard my voice outside the gates and then they went mad when I entered the compound, it was a lovely greeting. The only remaining puka (Puka No 1 was less excited, it took her two days before she would acknowledge me and that was after giving her her cat treats daily. She now sits on my lap and purrs a lot. Puka No 2 disappeared after the break-in and hasn’t been seen since. All the puppies are now re-homed and I am assured they are well.
The new guard Gibson seems OK, but then so was Dominic! He now lives in the guard house with his wife, and three boys (one a babe in arms). Not sure how they all manage to squeeze in there but they seem very happy. It takes a bit of getting used to having small children and a baby crying at the house but they mostly get on with their own thing. I understand Nicks thinking; with a family staying here it means that if Gibson has to leave the compound at least there are still people on the property and visa versa. We will see how it goes.
Gibson is a hard worker he has planted flowers all round the place that he has collected and bought on his travels, the place looks lovely and he has planted the shamba with onions, cabbage, spinach and pumpkin (Squash). They have added an animal into the pot a cockerel that his mother-in-law bought them, nice and noisy at 6am but it manages OK with the dogs and cat and wanders around as if it owns the place.
The house is fine, Catherine has enforced a rule that the guard and his family are not permitted in the house unless asked to come in for a purpose. This means that they are totally self sufficient the house can be locked and left without worry that they need something from the house. The kitchen looks strange, there are gaps where the cooker and fridge used to sit, and the bunk beds stand in the guest room looking bear without the new mattresses and bedding.
My room was untouched and I had to unscrew the lock on the wooden door to release the lock and then we used a crow bar to break the padlock on the security door to get in. The room was untouched other than a coating of dust lying over everything, I am glad I had the foresight to cover everything with sheets and off cuts of material before I left, although am kicking myself for taking the quilts and blankets out to give to Catherine for airing!
I spent the rest of the day, wet dusting, sweeping and cleaning my room, a little difficult as we were out of water, apparently we are now on alternate day water supply….. reminds me I must go and chat to my friend the water man! Nick dashed off as he was having friends visiting him in the afternoon but Catherine and Anastasia stayed around as support.
The clothes that Kimberley had sorted out for Catherine were well received and we were treated to a cup of chai and a fashion show as reward. Everything fitted so well that they could have been made for her, Catherine was so pleased. I managed to find a few bits for Anastasia too, the dogs were happy with their bones that were bought for them and we play daily with the rope toys from my brother. I gave Nick before he left me, a compilation DVD of Disney movies for his boys and a paper lamp shade (he saw mine that I bought on my last return home trip and indicated that he liked it). Even Puka No 1 was happy to receive the cat treats she was bought.
I crawled into bed early that night, with a sheet and a blanket I found that I had stored in the bedding trunk in my bedroom!!!!! (I would like to say I slept like a baby) but the dogs were unsettled with my arrival and getting used to the sounds of the night again took a few nights.
On Monday, I received a call to tell me that my friend Ailsa had arrived in Nairobi with her Virgin Air-hostess friend Jayne. They were on a very short visit provided by Jayne through Virgin at a very good price…….she told me to get in touch next time I need tickets and she would see what she could do!!!! I like Jayne.
Monday and Tuesday were spent running round with Ailsa and Jayne, we had beer and Nyama Choma (roast meat) at Veronicas place (Garden Villa) on Monday after spending the day running round town. We then spent Tuesday visiting Mama Sweetie and the children, we went to see how her project was going as they are building a children’s home on Mama Sweeties property with support from Ailsa’s father and a lot of fund raising.
When we returned home from The Sweeties, we dropped off Ailsa and Jayne and Nick took me shopping, something that I had not yet done. I bought mugs, glasses and an electric kettle (something I had not had before but needed). I bought provisions and cleaning materials, looked at the price of cookers and a fridge and went home. I sorted out the things and washed in a bucket…… yep cold water!! Nick went back and collected Ailsa and Jayne and took them for a quick visit with his family before returning to pick up Catherine and myself, we all headed out the Lotus Garden Chinese restaurant for dinner, a special treat before they left. After a huge meal we then headed back to Garden Villa to have a drink with Veronica… Jayne was given two complimentary bottles of champagne from her friends, so they decided to share them with us. Unfortunately, the first bottle went off like a canon and scared the customers and also drenched Jayne and myself…. What a waste!
I enjoyed Ailsa’s and Jayne’s company on those first few days which were a little strained. Everyone we met kept apologising to me for my situation, obviously word of my plight had got around. Many people were very upset to know what had happened as they know how hard I work for no reward and the benefit of others.
Ailsa and Jayne spent Wednesday running round sourcing provisions, photographing and pricing them ready for when they need to buy at a later date for Mama Sweeties project. I spent the day at home pottering round, sorting my clothes and paper work, re familiarising myself with ‘home’ and playing with the dogs. Gibson in the afternoon came to me saying he had found a greetings card left a the gate that afternoon.
It was a bit strange but here they give cards for most things, it was a ‘sympathy’ card, it had been dated 3rd Aug and it had written inside …..
Sorry for what happened, that’s part of life and some of these things are unavoidable, so take heart and be strong.
Unfortunately, they didn’t sign it so I have no idea who it is from. They obviously wrote it before and kept hold of it as I was away, now hearing I was back decided to leave it.
Many people have suggested that I move to Milimani but I have worked so much on my house to make it home, some things were meant to be, so for now I am staying.
As you will note from above I haven’t been to SCANN yet, I decided that I would sort myself out and settle before getting back into the swing, I have sent messages to the boys to let them know I will be with them soon.
Love to all,
Susannah
I won’t say that my return to Kenya was filled with joy and excitement more with worry as I was not sure how I would react to returning after the house had been broken into and with new guard on site.
I shouldn’t have worried, I was met at the airport by Nick (my friendly taxi driver) Catherine (who had been staying at the house and a teacher at SCANN) and Anastasia (another teacher at SCANN). They had left Nakuru at 3am to make sure they arrived in time and didn’t get caught in any traffic, my plane had been delayed before I left and Kimberley (my daughter) had sent Nick a message to let him know. Unfortunately, immigration was so slow and so many people argued when they arrived at the desk that it was a long and painful process. It is far easier to do in the UK before you leave but as I wasn’t sure when I was coming back it made the process difficult, so I paid the price and patiently waited with my 50 USD!
By the time I got out there was only a handful of suitcases on the carousel and there were three very worried but happy faces waiting for me, they thought I had got lost or missed the plane.
After the hugs and jubilant jigging about we went outside, it was brilliant sunshine and very warm…….. you remember that don’t you…… ahhhhh sunshine and warmth!
The drive other than from the airport to Nakuru was smooth and traffic free so I managed (after a lot of conversation) to drift into a more comfortable sleep than on the plane.
My arrival at the house was boisterous, Kim and Fatso (the dogs) were howling when they heard my voice outside the gates and then they went mad when I entered the compound, it was a lovely greeting. The only remaining puka (Puka No 1 was less excited, it took her two days before she would acknowledge me and that was after giving her her cat treats daily. She now sits on my lap and purrs a lot. Puka No 2 disappeared after the break-in and hasn’t been seen since. All the puppies are now re-homed and I am assured they are well.
The new guard Gibson seems OK, but then so was Dominic! He now lives in the guard house with his wife, and three boys (one a babe in arms). Not sure how they all manage to squeeze in there but they seem very happy. It takes a bit of getting used to having small children and a baby crying at the house but they mostly get on with their own thing. I understand Nicks thinking; with a family staying here it means that if Gibson has to leave the compound at least there are still people on the property and visa versa. We will see how it goes.
Gibson is a hard worker he has planted flowers all round the place that he has collected and bought on his travels, the place looks lovely and he has planted the shamba with onions, cabbage, spinach and pumpkin (Squash). They have added an animal into the pot a cockerel that his mother-in-law bought them, nice and noisy at 6am but it manages OK with the dogs and cat and wanders around as if it owns the place.
The house is fine, Catherine has enforced a rule that the guard and his family are not permitted in the house unless asked to come in for a purpose. This means that they are totally self sufficient the house can be locked and left without worry that they need something from the house. The kitchen looks strange, there are gaps where the cooker and fridge used to sit, and the bunk beds stand in the guest room looking bear without the new mattresses and bedding.
My room was untouched and I had to unscrew the lock on the wooden door to release the lock and then we used a crow bar to break the padlock on the security door to get in. The room was untouched other than a coating of dust lying over everything, I am glad I had the foresight to cover everything with sheets and off cuts of material before I left, although am kicking myself for taking the quilts and blankets out to give to Catherine for airing!
I spent the rest of the day, wet dusting, sweeping and cleaning my room, a little difficult as we were out of water, apparently we are now on alternate day water supply….. reminds me I must go and chat to my friend the water man! Nick dashed off as he was having friends visiting him in the afternoon but Catherine and Anastasia stayed around as support.
The clothes that Kimberley had sorted out for Catherine were well received and we were treated to a cup of chai and a fashion show as reward. Everything fitted so well that they could have been made for her, Catherine was so pleased. I managed to find a few bits for Anastasia too, the dogs were happy with their bones that were bought for them and we play daily with the rope toys from my brother. I gave Nick before he left me, a compilation DVD of Disney movies for his boys and a paper lamp shade (he saw mine that I bought on my last return home trip and indicated that he liked it). Even Puka No 1 was happy to receive the cat treats she was bought.
I crawled into bed early that night, with a sheet and a blanket I found that I had stored in the bedding trunk in my bedroom!!!!! (I would like to say I slept like a baby) but the dogs were unsettled with my arrival and getting used to the sounds of the night again took a few nights.
On Monday, I received a call to tell me that my friend Ailsa had arrived in Nairobi with her Virgin Air-hostess friend Jayne. They were on a very short visit provided by Jayne through Virgin at a very good price…….she told me to get in touch next time I need tickets and she would see what she could do!!!! I like Jayne.
Monday and Tuesday were spent running round with Ailsa and Jayne, we had beer and Nyama Choma (roast meat) at Veronicas place (Garden Villa) on Monday after spending the day running round town. We then spent Tuesday visiting Mama Sweetie and the children, we went to see how her project was going as they are building a children’s home on Mama Sweeties property with support from Ailsa’s father and a lot of fund raising.
When we returned home from The Sweeties, we dropped off Ailsa and Jayne and Nick took me shopping, something that I had not yet done. I bought mugs, glasses and an electric kettle (something I had not had before but needed). I bought provisions and cleaning materials, looked at the price of cookers and a fridge and went home. I sorted out the things and washed in a bucket…… yep cold water!! Nick went back and collected Ailsa and Jayne and took them for a quick visit with his family before returning to pick up Catherine and myself, we all headed out the Lotus Garden Chinese restaurant for dinner, a special treat before they left. After a huge meal we then headed back to Garden Villa to have a drink with Veronica… Jayne was given two complimentary bottles of champagne from her friends, so they decided to share them with us. Unfortunately, the first bottle went off like a canon and scared the customers and also drenched Jayne and myself…. What a waste!
I enjoyed Ailsa’s and Jayne’s company on those first few days which were a little strained. Everyone we met kept apologising to me for my situation, obviously word of my plight had got around. Many people were very upset to know what had happened as they know how hard I work for no reward and the benefit of others.
Ailsa and Jayne spent Wednesday running round sourcing provisions, photographing and pricing them ready for when they need to buy at a later date for Mama Sweeties project. I spent the day at home pottering round, sorting my clothes and paper work, re familiarising myself with ‘home’ and playing with the dogs. Gibson in the afternoon came to me saying he had found a greetings card left a the gate that afternoon.
It was a bit strange but here they give cards for most things, it was a ‘sympathy’ card, it had been dated 3rd Aug and it had written inside …..
Sorry for what happened, that’s part of life and some of these things are unavoidable, so take heart and be strong.
Unfortunately, they didn’t sign it so I have no idea who it is from. They obviously wrote it before and kept hold of it as I was away, now hearing I was back decided to leave it.
Many people have suggested that I move to Milimani but I have worked so much on my house to make it home, some things were meant to be, so for now I am staying.
As you will note from above I haven’t been to SCANN yet, I decided that I would sort myself out and settle before getting back into the swing, I have sent messages to the boys to let them know I will be with them soon.
Love to all,
Susannah
Bye for now
Hi Everyone,
just a quick email to let you all know I am heading back to Kenya, I fly out this evening and won't be back until August 2009.
If any of you want removing from my list of 'friends' who get my updates please let me know.If you want to stay on be ready for another 'block buster' Kenyan Adventure part 3!
First part will be 'Susannah's Place return to the scene of the crime!'
Take care of yourselves, sorry I haven't got round to seeing you all, work was top priority this time.... needed the pennies.
A huge THANK YOU to Linda Corby for all her help with the medical items.....and selling of the jewellery, love you loads but you know that anyway.
Hugs all round, especially to the Family
Love
Susannah
just a quick email to let you all know I am heading back to Kenya, I fly out this evening and won't be back until August 2009.
If any of you want removing from my list of 'friends' who get my updates please let me know.If you want to stay on be ready for another 'block buster' Kenyan Adventure part 3!
First part will be 'Susannah's Place return to the scene of the crime!'
Take care of yourselves, sorry I haven't got round to seeing you all, work was top priority this time.... needed the pennies.
A huge THANK YOU to Linda Corby for all her help with the medical items.....and selling of the jewellery, love you loads but you know that anyway.
Hugs all round, especially to the Family
Love
Susannah
Friday, 15 August 2008
Photos on My Space
Hi Everyone,
hope you are all well, I am still in the UK but thought I would let you know that I have been uploading photos from Kenya on 'My Space' . http://cid-12ff4e8b2cf9e368.spaces.live.com/
I am hoping this will work if not let me know. I know so many of you are wanting to see photos and I have not got any developed or have time or the means to get round to see you all.
I have had my first temp assignment which was all of two days...... they really know how to use me!! Finances are not what I had hoped as I needed to work these three months to make my trip worth while. To let you know, as I can't remember if I have sent out a message telling you all, my house in Kenya was broken into the week after I came to the UK, most of the items that were able to be removed from my house were so it has been a costly trip.
I am planning on heading back in October with the view to opening the house as a small B&B in order to get some pennies in to cover running costs. Anyone interested in visiting or passing the word round, I am working on web site and flyer's.
Love to you all,
Susannah
hope you are all well, I am still in the UK but thought I would let you know that I have been uploading photos from Kenya on 'My Space' . http://cid-12ff4e8b2cf9e368.spaces.live.com/
I am hoping this will work if not let me know. I know so many of you are wanting to see photos and I have not got any developed or have time or the means to get round to see you all.
I have had my first temp assignment which was all of two days...... they really know how to use me!! Finances are not what I had hoped as I needed to work these three months to make my trip worth while. To let you know, as I can't remember if I have sent out a message telling you all, my house in Kenya was broken into the week after I came to the UK, most of the items that were able to be removed from my house were so it has been a costly trip.
I am planning on heading back in October with the view to opening the house as a small B&B in order to get some pennies in to cover running costs. Anyone interested in visiting or passing the word round, I am working on web site and flyer's.
Love to you all,
Susannah
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