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Tuesday, July 28, 2009

I made it!

I have made it to Makuyu, Kenya. Makuyu is a small town a little ways out of Nairobi. I do have internet access, but it is limited and quite slow, so please forgive me if I don't respond right away! Also, I'll add pictures to this as soon as I figure out how.

The people here are filled with loving joy. I can't count how many times I've heard "Karibu" (Welcome). Today I took a tour of the compound, and it is huge! The area where I am staying has the Sisters' House, a technical school for girls, a secondary school, and a primary school where I will be working. Then there is a Children's Home for orphans, then the Salesian Fathers have a technical school for boys, a parish and a clinic.
When I met the nursery school kids (about 3-4) I honestly felt like a celebrity. ALL of them jumped up and wanted to shake my hand. I had about ten children hanging on either arm. I was introduced and all the kids repeated (shouted) "Mees Laureen." They sang for me and it was so wonderful. They have so much love!
A couple funny things I have encountered: I knew they drove on the left side of the road, but I didn't realize that the steering wheel was on the opposite side too! Gave me a scare when I thought the driver was not paying attention.
A postulant asked me if I had ever worn a skirt before.
I was expecting a Sister to pick me up at the airport, as they told me to look for someone in a habit. However, they sent a couple young men as it was nighttime so this is safer. The young men had a sign with my name on it, but I was slightly worried that I should not go with them. It was fine, of course. They were definitely not wearing habits.
The lunch bell is ringing, more to come soon.