Excitement at the Academy!

Another busy day at the school. I spent most of it with Ruth photographing the children. We made it through the nursery, pre-unit (preschool) and class 1. Some of the children were very shy while others not so much! One child had been picked up in the trash pile in Nairobi and he was very shy and never looked me or Ruth in the eye. He’s only been here a couple of months so we are praying that he will open up and feel comfortable here. When he first came the only thing he wanted to do was leave, but as Ruth said, God was faithful to keep him here and get food and shelter and love.
Here are the teacher’s latrines. Pauline told me that at home they prefer the latrine instead of the flush toilet! They are used to it and prefer it! No, I haven’t tried it ---- yet! Ruth gave me a tour of her home (remember she lives at the school). She was so excited and thrilled to show me her home and welcomed me to take pictures. This one is of her sitting area, her she entertains some of the children after school when they need counseling (she has a certificate in counseling and was so proud to show me it!) The next picture is of her kitchen where she has a small cook stove. And the next is of her bedroom and to the right is a small bathroom. But don’t get the wrong idea – no running water, no toilet or shower. She washes and baths out of basins. She even mentioned that she was happy to show people where she lives so that others will know where she lives and how. She is such a humble woman that she puts me to shame every time I talk with her! I pray that I may learn from her! Thank you Father for introducing us so that we can become friends and family!
I felt bad though when I went outside during recess after lunch. I went out with my video camera and was mobbed! That wasn’t the bad part, it was when the kids started pushing each other to get to the camera and kids were falling down and getting stepped on. So I took my camera back inside and just went out myself. That really wasn’t much better because the bold ones were grabbing my hands and touching my arms (I’m not sure if they were interested in the color or the jiggly arms!) But then Mr. Mwinde (he helps at the school) came out and helped me a bit by calming them down and having them sing me a song. But it continued to get a little rough with the little ones so I think I may have to visit the classes individually in order not to create a riot! They are so precious and I thank God for this magnificent opportunity to show Christ’s love to them.