Our first week

Our first week in Africa has been and gone, and here we are attempting to post our first entry on our blog. We've had a great time so far, beginning with a smooth flight from Heathrow (-5 degrees C). The children have been thoroughly enjoying the new experiences - the only downside has been Caleb getting an infection that led to a few bad nights and some painful sessions getting him to have his banana flavoured antibiotics (and you know how much he hates bananas...)

New Sights and Sounds

We quickly settled into our one-room accomodation at 'Gracia Resort', a comfortable guesthouse a short walk from the SIM office. We found ourselves sleeping four to a large double bed, something we would rather not have to repeat - in a Tukel or otherwise!

We soon became familiar with mosquito nets, sinks without plugs, pancakes for breakfast, the local 'Ya Ya' shopping centre and its various nice cafes, the walk to the office, local sweet 'shop' and beautiful blue skies.

SIM-Sudan Conference

Just as we were settling in it was time to set off for the SIM-Sudan annual conference, at Brakenhurst Conference Centre, Limuru. After a hot and dusty drive in three cramped mini-buses the team arrived at the venue, which was stunningly beautiful and with fantastic facilities.

We enjoyed 4 days of getting to know the 76 strong team, good food (a real treat for the majority of the team, just back from Sudan!) and fun and games in the sun.

We were given a generously sized bungalow (possibly to make up for our hotel room!) and the children made themselves right at home. They did really well getting to know lots of new people, but enjoyed their times at home with mum and dad and their rucksac each of toys.

The highlight for Bethanie was eating in and then climbing on the highest high-chairs you have ever seen. For Caleb it may have been playing cars with his new friends Isaac & Evan.

For Justin & Deborah it was listening as each of the adults took 10 minutes to tell the story of what God had been doing in their lives, particularly in the last year. We also enjoyed teaching sessions on John 15 from a previous SIM-Sudan director. The reports from each of the 6 bases were really helpful for getting a feel for the different work people are involved in and some of the challenges and joys.

All too soon it was Sunday afternoon and time to get back on the buses and return to Nairobi - we could have done with a couple more days to get to know everyone!