A Look Back at 2013

2013 has been a huge year for us.  We've had a lot of huge changes and life events.  Its been so fun to look back at our year and reminisce about all the good times.

January: 

We found out we were pregnant!  I took this picture the day I got a positive test, at approximately 4 weeks.  

February:

We went on our honeymoon to Morocco!  We spent two weeks exploring the country from the high mountains to the desert.  It was an amazing adventure.

March:

We went to Mombasa for the second year in a row to play in FEAST and had a blast.  Missing this crew like crazy!!  Go Kisumu!

April:

We told everyone we were expecting a new addition to our family!  No it wasn't an April Fools Joke. :)

May:

We left our beloved Kenya and moved to North Carolina for Josh's next assignment.  We moved into our new home and started unpacking the endless amount of boxes.  Who knew we had that much stuff!

June:

We found out that Baby Bast was a GIRL!!  It totally changed our thinking as we were thinking boy from the beginning.  Bring on the hair bows and shoes!

July:

Photo by McConville Studio

I watched one of my best friends  marry the love of her life.  So happy to be a part of her day!

August:

We got out and explored North Carolina, visiting Wilmington and relaxing by the ocean.

September:

On the last day of this month we welcomed Mara into the world!  Our lives would never be the same.  

October: 

We went to the pumpkin patch and celebrated Mara's first official holiday, Halloween! She was Minnie Mouse.

November:

We had Mara's dedication at church and a wonderful Thanksgiving with Josh's parents.  Our first as a family of three and in the new house.

December:

Mara got to meet Santa and we celebrated Christmas together as a family of three in our own home.  We also traveled north so Mara could meet her extended family!

My Heart is Heavy

My heart is heavy with the recent events in Nairobi.  Kenya is so near and dear to Josh and I and it just tugs at me that something so terrible happened there.  Our time in Kenya was so blessed by good friends and great times that we tend to forget the hard parts of living there.  The constant awareness that something could happen at any time.  That there's just extra safety precautions you have to take.  That there are people out there that will target you just because of the color of your skin.

I know that when we lived there we would try to take these small attacks with stride.  Every lost of life is a terrible one but when it was only a grenade at a bus stop or a church, the masses didn't pay it much attention.  Didn't seem to recognize that a larger attack could be imminent.  Seemed to brush the whole issue under the table when it was quiet for awhile.  Now with over thirty hostages still held up in the mall and close to 60 dead and 125 injured suddenly it has become serious.

I am so thankful that all of our friends and colleagues have been accounted for and were not harmed in this attack.  I am praying for the families of those affected by this senseless act of violence.  I am hoping the Kenyan government, army and police force handles this situation with the utmost regard for human life and political integrity.

Keep strong, Kenya.

We're Not in Kenya Anymore

Lately I feel like we're constantly reminding ourselves that we're back in the U.S. and not in Kenya anymore. We got so used to our lives there that its been a bit of an adjustment being back.  (not that we don't love it here)  Here's a few examples that come to mind...

1. When reserving a campsite for this weekend we were shocked when the "primitive" sites were listed with having just a fire pit and pit toilets.  Wait this is primitive?!  That's normal in Kenya.  A bath house and grill who needs those when camping...

2. Multiple types of cheese...wait cheese in general.  What's this?!  Oh we're not in Kenya anymore.

3. Running to the store to just grab one thing and that thing being in there.  Insane!  I think it took me about three hours to do the first grocery store run.  Too many things to look at.  (first world problems)

4. Josh fell asleep in the car while I was driving the other day.  His response, "The roads here just bore me."  Yes there is far less to worry about on the road here.  Oh were not in Kenya anymore.

The Last Day

So this is it.  Our last day in Kenya.  Surprisingly its been somewhat calm thus far.  Buddy made it safely last night and doesn't seem too affected by the long drive from Kisumu.  We're just doing a little rearranging and repacking then headed out to where he is staying to get him ready for the long flights.

I feel a little redundant but I keep feeling like its not really happening.  That we're headed back to the states for a visit rather than for good.  I'm sure it will eventually feel real like when we sign the lease on our new place or purchase our new car but for now I am in this state of "unreality" (is that even a word?).

Tonight we will travel from Nairobi to Amsterdam and then from there head to Atlanta.  After processing through customs and immigration its only a short flight to North Carolina.  I'm praying that everything goes smoothly, not only with Buddy but for us as well.  Josh's back has been hurting him lately and well you know I'm growing another human being :-)  I'm hoping that we get good seats with lots of room to get up and move around and if any airline chooses to upgrade us well that would be even more of a blessing.

Well I'm not sure when I'll have internet again or the time to post but I will try to update when I can.

Goodbye Kenya!  Its been grand....Here's to a new adventure!!

And so Starts Our Journey Back

Today marks the beginning of our trip back to the states.  As I type this the sun still isn't up and we're getting ready to head to the airport to make our flight to Nairobi.  There we'll spend a few days settling things before flying back to the states.

Leaving Kisumu feels strange and we can only hope that we'll be back here some day, if only to visit.  Despite spending yesterday running around and saying good bye to friends, I feel like there is so many unfinished "to dos".  If you could, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we start this trip.

For us as we travel the long distance between Kenya and the States.

For Buddy that he makes it safely to Nairobi and isn't affected by the long travel.

For our car situation, that it gets settled without any more bumps in the road.

For everyone and everything we're leaving behind.

We'll miss you Kenya!

One Week

Are we really a week out from leaving this place?  This place that we've called home for the past three years. The time seems to only be going by faster as we get closer to our leave date.

Each time I see someone I find myself wondering if its the last.  I've found that in this kind of work you don't say good-bye, just "Till next time."  Sure there may never be a next time but saying that aloud is too sad.  The friends we've made here are some of the greatest.  I've said it before, but it takes a special type of person to live/work in Africa and we have met some of the best people here.  They have made our time in Kenya what it was whether it was on one of our many trips or just hanging by the pool on a Sunday afternoon.  I don't know what we would have done without them.

Kenya has been good to us.  It holds so many firsts for us and for our family.  Its were we met, fell in love, got engaged, married and found out we were expecting.  Its our beginning and its really sad to see that chapter in our lives close.  

I have this bittersweet feeling as we use this week to visit with friends, enjoy "last" dinners and say our good-byes.  Yes its hard.  Its always hard.  But at the same time we're ready.  We're ready for a new adventure and to take that next step in our lives.  The idea of North Carolina is exciting.  A new start and a new stage of life.

I'm sure this week will go by fast.  Time has already shown us that.  I'm just praying that we're able to soak in every second of it.  Make those final memories with friends and toast our farewell over a few last Tuskers.

Asante sana, Kenya!  For everything...

The President's Message to Kenya

In light of the upcoming elections, President Obama has released a statement to the Kenyan people urging peace and a fair vote.  I think this was really well done by the white house and hope it goes far to encourage the people of Kenya to strive toward a peaceful democracy.   

Kenyan Politics

With the US inauguration on the horizon, its made me think more about the local elections currently underway here in Kenya.  This election is a historical milestone in Kenya's history.  With the passing of the new constitution  new positions including governors and senators are being established.  The Prime Minister position is being abolished leaving a system that will somewhat resemble the US Congress.

One of the major differences with Kenya politics is the number of political parties.  Kenya is composed of approximately 50 different tribes which means there are just about as many political parties.  To top it off politicians frequently "party hop" between the multiple parties to ensure they receive a nomination.  There are many benefits to being in politics in Kenya including a massive severance and funeral package.  Furthermore, Kenyan politicians are among the highest paid in the world.  Yes that's right.  THE WORLD.

This past Thursday marked the beginning of election season as the parties held their primaries.  In true Kenyan style, ballots were delayed getting out to the election sites and many polling stations had to repeat the vote the following day.  In some areas rumors of rigged elections circulated and thus some violence broke out.

Over and over again, world leaders, church pastors and even Kenyan politicians have stressed the importance of a fair and just election.  This is the only way the horrors of the 2007 post election violence won't repeat itself.  Despite these warnings it seems that history is beginning to repeat itself.  If Kenyans are already doubting the primary, what does this mean for the real elections on March 4?

Obviously there are a whole lot of other issues at play here that I don't want to get into; the corruption, candidates who are also on trial at the Hague for crimes against humanity, the immediate resorting to violence by the general population, etc.  I'm just praying that as we get closer to the elections that Kenyans will realize that this vote will change the course of their history.  That it is vital that it is fair, just and without violence.  Despite their tribal origins they are all still Kenyans.

*Note for all my family who is now officially freaked out: Josh and I will be following the US Embassy's regulations for safety throughout the course of the election.  

New Transportation Laws

Recently the Kenyan government instituted new traffic laws and increased the fines for certain violations.  Police have been taking this seriously and cracking down on all violators.  This of course sparked not so peaceful protesting by most of the public transportation sectors.  Matatu and piki piki drivers took to the streets to protest the new laws.

Frankly I don't see any issues with the new laws.  If they are enforced correctly and without corruption they could really have an impact on the overall safety of Kenya road ways.  Here's an article describing some of the upsets the country has faced due to the public transport strike.  Only in Kenya would workers strike because of better safety...

Kenyan Habits

As in every culture, there are certain habits that most individuals have.  Whether its a certain way to greet someone or a saying, everyone seems to do it from the large cities to the rural villages.  Kenya is no different.  Lately I've found that I've developed or taken on a few of these.  They aren't necessarily good or bad but may cause a few stares next time we're back in the states.

1. Shaking hands-Its really rude to not shake everyone's hand in the room here.  Everyday, every room I shake hands with EVERYONE.  Now I find myself enjoying the ritual and purposefully extending my hand even before some Kenyans.  I even feel a little weird when someone doesn't shake my hand....

2. Invading Personal Space-Kenyan's have a different idea of personal space than most Americans.  Many will literally stand right behind you or even next to you while you are in line (I always notice it most when I'm in a line).  It took me a long time to get used to this.  I just felt uncomfortable with some basically in my lap most of the time.  Now I'm right there with everyone, making sure I have secured my place in line or vehicle.  I noticed how bad I do this one when I went back to the states in July.  I got a few dirty looks from people when I was standing just a bit too close.

3. British Speak-British English and American English are just a bit different.  There is still a lot of British influence here in Kenya and the language is definitly one area affected.  We say "holiday" instead of "vacation", "Que" instead of "line", "take away" instead of "carry out", "pick" instead of "go pick up", etc.  Not to mention all the Kenyan versions of English...."kindly do this", "way forward", "assist please", etc.

4. Kenyan Time-Kenyans have an unspoken rule of "Kenyan time".  This means that you can wait up to an hour or so past the designated time set to meet up.  Josh and I tend to embrace this to a degree.  We're more the people who start to get ready to leave when we should have been there making us about 10 to 15 minutes late most days.  (Don't get me wrong, we're perfectly capable of arriving on time)  I found that as time goes on we get more lazy with this.  No one wants to wait an hour for someone to show up so you take your time getting there in order to wait less.  Personally I'm ok with this when it comes to most social situations.  I get pretty angry when this starts to apply to work.  If I schedule a meeting with you for noon, be there at noon!  My time is valuable :)

Matatus

Matatus are 14 seater passenger vans (which sometimes hold up to 25 people!) that provide the bulk of the public transportation here in Kenya.  I usually avoid these vans as safety is not really something that goes hand in hand with them but I do enjoy seeing the signage that adorns these rusting vehicles.

Along with TVs blaring the latest music video and strobe lights inside the vans, most have decals on their back and front windows.  These decals essentially act as a "name" for the rattling boxes of steel.  "Oh there goes X, again!"

Here are a few of my favorites:

Joe      I instantly thought, "Hey, Joe what do you know?"  Guess its not too unusual to name your car.

God's Answer    There's a lot of answers we can find in God's teachings but I'm pretty sure the fast speeds                              and crazy driving this van was doing is not one of them.

Its Holly  Who's Holly?  What does that even mean......

Sweet Melon I don't even know where to start here.  Since there's no melons in Kenya, there has to be some underlying message?

Virus! Yes there was an exclamation point and no I don't think I'd like to ride in this van.  What exactly would I come out with?  Influenza? Ebola?

Mama Fred  I really hope there isn't some poor soul out there that this van is named after but then again every other shop here tends to be named "Mama this" or "Mama that".

Live on the Road, Die on the Road  Although this is a reality for some matatu drivers it sad nevertheless.  It also kind of implies they have an idea of how bad they drive...kind of.

Swanky Rider Definitely would be my first choice.  Anyone else?

Holy Molly  Now I think they were going for holy moley but just had some issues with spelling.  This happens a lot.  Today I saw another matatu claiming it was "wonderul"

Gooner 4 Life  Who doesn't appreciate this reference?  The real question is do you think they really know what it means or just heard it and thought it sounded cool?

Strategic  This one just makes my head spin.  Strategic what?  Strategic swerving off of the road.  Strategic driving to not hit pedestrians.  Strategic ways of fitting a van in a space meant for a bicycle.

1 year

Its been 1 year since I arrived in Kisumu.  Its been an amazing year filled with great trips, amazing friends and too many memories to count.  Here's just a few:

1. Josh and I got engaged-Cannot wait to marry him later this year!
2. I started at CDC-Kenya-The project has had its ups and down but overall its been a great learning experience.
3. We traveled around Kenya: Aberdares, Kericho, Kerio Valley, Mara, Mombasa, Zanzibar, Kakamega, Mfangano Island, Rusinga Island, Watamu, and Nairobi.
4. Ultimate Frisbee-Our small group in Kisumu has grown so large its hard to get everyone on the field at one time.
5. Met so many new friends and unfortunately seen some of them leave-Molly, Sarah, Jenny, Julianne, Elise, Julia, Steve, Jon, Steph, Ryan, Mike, Maggie, Megan

I can't believe how fast time flies here.  It seems like yesterday I got off the plane at Kisumu airport anxiously waiting for a glimpse of Josh.  Now its a year later and so much has happened.  Here's to next year and what Kenya will bring!

Malaria Testing

Yep I know; I'm kind of a science nerd. But did you really think I was going to get a malaria test and not take a picture of it.....oh and no worries it was negative.

Yes I realize I got this test done almost a year ago now but hey at least I posted it

A Kenyan Work Permit

This story begins all the way back in April when I made the decision to come back to Kenya.  I was corresponding with CDC and trying to arrange for the most appropriate visa for my trip.  Despite my instance that a work permit was a possibility we applied for a Special Pass.  Despite talking to many about this "special pass", I still cannot figure out what was so special about it.  It did not allow me to work in Kenya, I wasn't considered a resident and it was only for three months which is the length of the typical Kenyan tourist visa. 

Quickly after my arrival, we decided it was best to apply for a Kenyan work permit.  This permit allows the holder to come and go from Kenyan as he or she pleases, gives the individual resident rates at national parks and attractions and is free to KEMRI staff!  You can't beat it right?  Well little did I know what a long and stressful process it would become.

I began filling out the paperwork in July which included an application, transcripts from my undergrad and grad school, a copy of my passport, 2 photos and a letter of support for the director of CDC.  All were relatively painless (if you don't count the 2 hours at the passport picture place because I smiled in the first shot).  Next came the KEMRI approval and with all things Kenya it took a bit of time.  A few weeks later my application was in order and on its way to the immigration office.  Here's where the headaches began...

The assured time of two months came and went.  Finally at the end of November I got word that the immigration committee was finally convening to discuss my application.  "What a relief!" I thought.  "Maybe I'll even get this before I leave for Christmas."  Ahh the optimism I had then.  The only result from that first meeting was the request for my actual diplomas rather than my transcripts.  Apparently when they ask for transcripts you are supposed to imply that they really want your certificates.  Well luckily by then I was headed back to the states and was able to scan and send the diplomas in. 

I was shocked and amazed when I received an email 2 weeks ago saying the permit had been approved.  One I didn't think anything could get done with the holidays and two I was just plain beginning to loose hope.  There are still a few things I am sorting out like my alien registration card (which takes another two months to process :) and my contract at CDC.  All in all the frustrations and stress from this process has been worth it.  Despite my rantings, the whole process would have been ten times worse if it wasn't for the dedicated CDC staff both here in Kisumu and in Nairobi who put up with my pestering and personally went down to the immigration office day after day to inquire about my visa.  I am definitely looking forward to moving on with this process and eventually completing it.  In the meantime though, that work permit in my passport feels like pure gold.


Here it is.  Proof I am legal to work in Kenya!

Hippo for dinner?

Our first day back at work was a bit eventful as we drove out of Kisumu and made our way to campus.  A crowd had gathered at the golf course, next to the lake.  As a crowd in Kenya is never a good sign we were curious as to what was going on.  Did a plane crash? Is someone hurt?  When we were right on the golf course we saw a lone hippo out of the water.  Ahhh the cause of the crowd, but what's so unusal about a hippo?  There are quite a lot in the waters surronding the lake.  Its not a new animal to the area.  After throwing some ideas around we were a bit baffled about what all the fuss was about.  Then I saw this.....www.nation.co.ke/News/Hippo...in...for.../-/index.html

Kenyans.  I mean seriously who eats hippo.  All that fat can't taste that good.  Needless to say we were quickly reminded we were not in the states anymore.  Karibu sana, Kenya!!

A Kenyan wedding

Last weekend, Josh and I attended the wedding of one of his staff members.  I've seen pictures of the Kenyan wedding ceremony but never had attended one before.  We were running late that morning so decided to instead just show up for the reception.  Little did we know that Kenyan time would take on its full meeting in this day.

We arrived at the church at 3:30 in the afternoon to be quickly shown to seats in the front row.  As it seemed the ceremony had just begun.  Three little girls and two boys slowly made their way down the aisle throwing confetti at every step.  I whispered to Josh, "I think this is the actual ceremony."  "No," he said, "They are just coming in for the reception."  As more and more individuals made their way down the aisle, I kept insisting that we had actually arrived to the wedding even though it was supposed to start 3 hours ago.  I claimed it was Kenyan time at its best!

Besides the late start, Kenyan weddings are not much different than American.  My only grief is the "marching" down the aisle.  To be in a Kenyan wedding is a great honor and ALL involved take their time enjoying being on parade.  The first set of children took about 15 minutes to make it down the short aisle and each person after that came slower and slower.  It seems that as you become more important in the wedding party you also get more time going down the aisle.  Now you think this would be come boring or even a little awkward for the individual marching or the audience, but alas not here.  Other Kenyans jumped out of their seats and ran into the aisle to take pictures.  Definitely no rules here!!

After an hour and a half of painstaking marching and hearing the same song over and over, the wedding party had finally made their way into the church.  What followed was a heart filled praise of the Lord.  The preacher welcomed everyone making a special note to single out Josh (we were the only non-Kenyans there) and conduct the ceremony in English for our benefit. 

After the vows were done everyone quickly ran outside and yes I mean ran!  Food and cake awaited us.  Again Josh and I were seated in the front row and quickly offered cake and soda.  We stayed for the gifts and a few of the speeches but made our exit as the speakers became more and more long winded. 

Overall it was a nice taste of the Kenyan culture.  It was great to go support Josh's staff and I think he was very honored that we came.  I'm not sure its what I would want for my wedding ceremony some day but it was interesting to get a look at what its like here.

The mosquitoes...they love me

The mosquitoes love me. I'm not sure what it is about me in particular that they find appealing or why covering myself in 34% DEET doesn't even seem to work. Despite this constant practice and actively killing 4 to 5 each night I am still covered.

What is even more interesting is all of my bites seem to be concentrated on my left side. Even the one I got last night on my eye (yes I got bit on my eyelid last night) is on the left side. Normally I would think location doesn't matter but the concentration of itchiness on my left is starting to get old. The least they could do is spread themselves out evenly across my body :)

A mosquito bite here, a mosquito bite there generally wouldn't bother me, if I was in the States. What scares me is the risk of malaria associated with them here. I'm not on any kind of antimalarial being the long duration of my trip and about a week ago I came down with a pretty high fever. In the States we would just take an antibiotic and not think twice but I was immediately taken to the lab for a malaria smear! No worries it was negative, but it was definitely interesting and a little scary to get pricked and tested. And of course being the science minded person I am I had to have a picture taken of the whole process! (Picture to come)

Karibu Kenya!

The sun rises over Lake Victoria as the boats head out to fish.

...And I'm back! I think I ended the last post with a comment or maybe it was a threat that I would return to Kenya. I made good on that June 1st landing in Nairobi after 16 hours travel (and that's just on the plane!). Luckily though I didn't have to wait long in Nairobi as I hopped an earlier flight to Kisumu than originally planned. It felt really surreal landing down in Kisumu. On one hand if felt like my time here was a lifetime ago but I also got this strange feeling as if I had never left. Needless to say it was an easy transition back into Kenyan life. I was quickly exposed to the crazy traffic, the sights and even the smells of Kisumu. I did have some intense jet lag that took about 4 days, numerous naps, and a few early mornings to get over, but 15 days into my trip I'm doing well.

A heard of hippo

This year I am working on a sentinel surveillance project with CDC/KEMRI looking at encephalitis and meningitis in the Siaya area of Western Kenya. For those of you who are unaware a sentinel surveillance project is one where health care providers report illness in their patients. There is no active searching for cases or recruitment of patients. Illness is reported as individuals present at the hospital. I will be doing all of the project coordinating and I am excited to get started. Currently things are a little slow in the office but tomorrow I am headed to the field to get a first hand look at the everyday happenings of the hospital. Hopefully this will give me a good idea as to how this surveillance study will fit into the research already done there.

I love the reflection in the water

As far as any adventures go, I haven't really ventured out of Kisumu quite yet. I've spent the last few weeks visiting with old friends and settling in. I did however take an early morning boat ride to watch the sunrise on Lake Victoria. This was something I didn't get the opportunity to do last summer and it was a nice relaxing way to spend my first few days here. We saw a bunch of birds each more colorful than the next, got a little too close to a pack of hippo for comfort, and even spotted a monkey in the trees. Below are a few pics of that morning!

The group

My favorite things Kenya 1 & 2-The final post

This is my final post. Its sad as it feels by ending this blog my trip is coming to an end in some way. Yes I realize I have already been back in the U.S. 15 days but I've been putting this off in the hopes of extending the experience. So here it is my number 1 and 2....

1. Friends/Family

I say friends and family because that's what they were. They were my home away from home for three months. The experience wouldn't have been the same if they weren't there. I know it is these people who made the trip unbelievable. We traveled together and bonded over all the mishaps along the way. I always used to wonder what it was about summer experiences that were unforgettable; the warm weather, the exotic locations, the reasons for traveling? Its the people. The people can make or break the experience and I was blessed on this trip to meet and spend time with some of the best people I've ever met. When I think back on Kenya its these people who are attached to the memories. They are undoubtedly what I will and what I do miss the most.

As I am sitting here writing (and starting to cry) I am trying to pinpoint some of my favorite memories and its hard. There are so many moments, so many nights, so many jokes that its difficult to pick just one. Like the adventures I think I'm going to highlight some of my favorite memories from this summer.

Max-You were here for so short but I don't think the summer would have been the same without you there. You single handily got us started on our weekend trips and I don't think we stopped to sleep until you left. I mean how many trips did we fit into the 5 week time? Not to mention the week where we went out EVERY night in order to fully celebrate you leaving and raided Kayla's pantry to make dinner. You were the only other CDCer and we had many good chats on the way to work every morning of course while the matatu van was swerving dangerously around the road. My favorite memory by far though has to be when you and Richie got the 'great' idea of running after the wildebeest. Maybe not the smartest of ideas but made for an entertaining video. Here's where I'd congratulate you for winning our asshole card tournament but wait you didn't win did you el presidente...I think that title was stolen from you at the last minute. Did I say stolen? I meant rightly deserved.

At the top after our first trip, to Hell's Gate.

Emily-First I have to say how grateful I am to you. I'm not sure I would have gotten to know as many people as I did without you to do the introductions. I am so grateful that that day our car was late and I was able to tour Walter Reed. Also very glad you spoke up at the mention of Michigan!! You were our guide. There are times that I look back and wonder if we could have gotten through it or gotten through it as smoothly without your Swahili skills or Kenya experience. You really showed us the ropes. I think by far my favorite memory or memories is all the dancing. Especially to Waka Waka....I think we definitely lived this one up. Or you know my favorite memory could be the baked goods that seemed to constantly be coming out of your house. I mean do I listen to my head or my stomach? I think the best part of the summer for us is it doesn't have to end. I always wonder at how small the world is when you think about the people you meet across the world. I mean were 45 minutes apart!! Craziness....I can only say until we see each other again because I know with this distance we will!

Richie-Where do I even start? I think my favorite memories of you this summer mainly revolve around the crazy things that came out of your mouth and tusker. And I think you wouldn't have it any other way. Some of my favorites: "That's deadly." Said over and over again in relation to just about every 'cool' thing we did over the course of the summer. "Jen, we need you to come here now." I go running in what seems to be an emergency but turns out to be a birthday cake with many candles waiting for me. "Let's extend our trips." One night after a few too many tuskers we all decided that it may be necessary to stay a bit longer in Kenya. REALLY glad this happened! "I'm going to have one more." I can't even begin to count the number of times I heard this one. Looking back on it I think it was your instance for one more tusker that turned nights into memories and friends into family. (Yes I realize that was a little cheesy) I know that at times you probably got sick of being the only one with testosterone at the table but Richie it wouldn't have been the same if you hadn't been there. I can only say that I cannot wait you make it here to the states or I to Ireland. Whichever comes first and YES I will be taking you up on that offer to stay at your gaff. As Rachel was our witness you can't back out of it now!
Its been grand.


Rachel-Again where do I start? There isn't a single memory (ok so that's a bit of an exaggeration but there isn't many) that I have of Kenya that doesn't include you. Whether it was our bikes breaking down in Hell's Gate, telling you to stop 'sleep-texting' on Mt. Elgon, going to see Twilight in Nairobi, visiting the tourist market in Kisumu so much that they know our names, attempting to make a pie from scratch, or splitting a delicious dessert at the Laughing Buddha, I'm never going to forget it. One of my favorite memories has to be our attempt to make make up a song in the Mara. "Masai, Masai Mara....Mara" (said to the tune of Money, Money, Money) So we got this brilliant idea that we should one make up a song about the Mara and two we should do a music video. We got as far as this line and stopped....yeah you can see why. Needless to say there isn't one distinct time that stands out to me more than the other whether we were convincing Richie it was time to go home, shopping, walking around the city, or just hanging out. More so I am thankful that I was able to find a great friend in you. I'm going to hold you to the promise to return in May. The coast, Kisumu, the works! I am already saving!!

Josh- Can I say where do I start for a third time? I feel over the past three months I was in Kenya the memories I have that include you are to numerous to count. Upon trying to decide on a favorite is where I get stuck. My first thought goes to Mt. Elgon and the struggle (or what seemed to be) to get up and down the mountain. Sure I trusted your new car and sure I trusted your driving but that whole falling off the side of the mountain was always there in my mind. I'm just glad I wasn't seated up front because I probably would have driven you crazy with my 'minor' freak outs and bouts of hiding in my hoodie. My second thought goes to a certain wedding crashing event that may or may not have happened :-) (depending on who is reading this right now) I don't think I've ever enjoyed rocking out to YMCA and Michael Jackson as much as I did that night. Think if we would have stayed there any longer we would have started making friends out there on the dance floor. When I look back on the summer, I think I also have a lot to thank you for. The simple things: the rides (unfortunately you were the only one with a car) and the big things: allowing me to wait out the referendum at your house and then move in for the remainder of my trip. I think (or I hope) I managed to take care of the place while you were away. I mean it was still standing when you got back! Most of all though, Josh, thank you for being a part of my summer and more so for continuing to stay in touch. And get ready, Rachel and I are coming back!!




My last night in Kisumu out at the Laughing Buddah.


All in all I miss you guys tons. The three months in Kenya were some of the best of my life. Until we meet again! (if I knew how to say that in Swahili it would make this post even cooler!)

2. The CDC

When I started this summer I already had preconceived notions on how my summer experience was going to go. I had found this amazing opportunity abroad and was ready to get started. As with any international experience things are bound to change and sure enough my project was switched about a month into my trip. It ended up being for the better as I had the opportunity to basically run my own project. I started from the beginning stages learning what I could from already established surveillance programs, hiring staff, running training sessions and eventually collecting data. It was really a great experience to have because it allowed me to follow a project from the start to the implication. It also gave me the opportunity to get hands on experience in project management. Both good resume builders!

On a less serious note, working at CDC summer was a dream come true. I learned way more in my three months in Kenya than my entire first year in grad school. It made me see that sometimes you don't realize how much you know until you put it in practice. Coming over I felt so unprepared for what awaited to me and was honestly surprised by the knowledge that I had and how I was able to translate that into my work.

It was not only my experiences at the CDC that shaped my summer but more so the people who worked there. I had the privilege of working with some of the country's leading minds in influenza, malaria, statistics, and enterics. It was an honor to collaborate with them and share ideas. I know that as my career moves forward I can turn to these people for advice, support, and assistance. When you think of CDC your mind honestly recalls the research and ignores the inter workings of the organization. It is these people that I will remember most because of the experiences and memories we formed.

Rachel- My supervisor, my friend, my go to, my second mom, my support. Its hard to pinpoint what I will remember most or more so what I will miss the most. You brought me through the initial hard times and were always there with a piece of advice. I will always remember your assistance with the mess that was finding me a place to live and all the times we moved me around the city. I loved meeting your family and your kids. I will treasure those moments with them. As a mentor you taught me the inner workings at CDC. Who to go to when you wanted something done, how to be an effective leader, how to ask for help when you need it. I was so grateful for these lessons and also appreciated you turning to me for help as well. I knew leaving would be hard but I didn't expect saying goodbye would be as difficult as it was. I know we will always stay in touch and will meet again soon.

Chege-My driver, the giver of marriage advice, and the best at subtle jokes. I already miss heading out to the field everyday. My best memories are when we decided that work just wasn't necessary that day and headed into town or when you insisted that I needed to marry a Kenyan in order to stay longer. I am so thankful that you were always our driver and honestly looked forward to the hour drive to and from the field that was filled with jokes, snide remarks, and rantings.

Rhoda-The go to girl, the keeper of my passport, and the one who will always brighten your day. Rhoda was always the one I went to when I needed a pick me up. There was never a moment or day that she wasn't smiling and no matter the question she always seemed to have an answer. I jokingly refer to her as the 'boss'.

Ruttoh-I don't have any funny name for him or any smart remarks. Ruttoh is a character in and of himself. He was the go to man for any kind of supplies and even though I probably was in his office everyday he never turned me away. He was my teacher of Kenya names for things and always reminded me that it wasn't a binder but a box file. I will always be grateful to him for helping me find my first place and buying me that beer!

There are so many others that I would love to mention but then this post would just go on and on forever. CDC was my home away from home for the three months I was in Kenya. The people there opened their arms and sometimes homes to me. Given the chance I would go back in a heart beat and Kayla did say, "Come back in May....Bring your own money!"

Favorite things Kenya

This is me bawling because I couldn't speak after they had all talked.

I told you I was finishing this post and here's 3 and 4....

3. My Field Staff

I miss them. I truly do. Its been only a week since I've seen them but I miss going out to the field daily and seeing their smiling faces. Our staff consisted of 8 nurses, 3 pharmacy staff, 3 health facility recorders, and 2 quality control personnel. I can honestly say all were open and welcoming. I was able to get to know each and everyone of them. Probably one of the hardest nights for me in Kenya was the night I took them all out to eat. We were finally able to sit down as a team instead of the three collective units and talk. I don't think I have ever laughed and cried so much. I was touched when everyone took turns standing and saying something about me. By the end I couldn't even form sentences to thank everyone enough. These people came into my life for a snapshot and there isn't words to describe what they did to change it. They taught me how to lead not only as a team leader but as a boss. I learned how to best communicate and get things done. I mean sometimes this took a little finesse but I figured it out. I couldn't have asked to be place with a better group of people. I know that I will continue to keep in touch with them and when I return to Kenya (Yes I AM going back) they will be the first ones I call to be on my team.

The entire team!

4. The adventures

Although I was based in Kisumu the best parts of my trip were by far the 'adventures' I took. I call them adventures because for the most part they were unplanned and by the seat of our pants so to speak. We went to game parks and the big cities, climbed mountains and hiked the rain forest. Kenya is a country that offers very diverse wildlife, terrain, and things to do. I made it a point to soak up as much as possible in my limited time there. Looking back its hard to claim one trip was my favorite over another. I loved all of them for their uniqueness, the unexpected surprises, and the people who came along. I think the best way to do this is to just focus instead on my favorite moment of each trip....

Lake Naviasha: I think my favorite moment here was hiking Hell's Gate gorge. The terrain was beautiful but difficult. I loved the guides witty comments on the orgin of the name of the gorge and his insistence that this was an "easy" hike. Some honorable mention moments of this trip include the sunrise boat ride on the lake and just sitting all evening in the great bar/restaurant at the campsite. This was my first trip and thus holds a special place in my heart. I think it was the trip that got us started!

Kakamega Forest: This one is easy. My favorite moment of this trip was watching the US vs. Ghana world cup match at a family's home in the middle of the rain forest. It was my 23rd birthday and a man graciously invited us into his home. I watched the US loose to Ghana sitting in a small hut with the man's son sitting on my lap. At least he was happy Ghana won!!

Mt. Elgon: This one is a toss up. I feel so much went "wrong" on this trip that its hard to pinpoint a great moment. Although there were so many mishaps the memories that came from them were great. Lets see....oh when we got stuck on the way up the mountain, or in general just getting up the mountain in one piece. Big thanks to Josh for that one! The hike itself was beautiful but rough. Oh and the downpour we got stuck in on the way back down....The caves were spectacular minus the threat of Ebola and the river that was the road on the way back to Kisumu brings back great memories as well. This was a trip of mishaps that just turned into "can you believe that happened?"

Nairobi: Here I think the best part was the shopping and boy did we shop. I think Rachel and I hit almost every shop in Nairobi in our short three days there. We got souvenirs and clothes to take back to Kisumu. The food was good too although I think my judgement was clouded as I was CRAVING American food pretty badly at this point.

Masai Mara: I'm going to lump this trip into one. The whole thing was my favorite moment. We saw too many animals, lion kills, Masai men, Japanese tourists, and wheat fields to pin down one memory. The beauty of this trip lies in its uniqueness. I know I can always go back and it will be different. Different animals, different issues that arise and the best part is it will always be amazing. The Mara is Kenya.

My top 1 and 2 to come soom!!! I'd do it now but I think I'd start crying....