One of the things that often surprises people when I describe these trips is how hard we work. Training days are typically at least 12 hours of work time - about 9 hours of training in a hot, stuffy room, with more time for debrief, prep, and various leadership tasks in the evening. We also often train on Saturdays when we do two weeks of training, because it enables us to wrap up sooner and let the participants head home to their families. And, of course, there are project meetings and other responsibilities. So, when a "rest day" presents itself, we tend to take advantage!
Perhaps all of that is to rationalize these photos! When in Kenya, you really HAVE to safari, of course! Especially when you're located just minutes from 8,000 sq mi of wilderness national parks! While seeing a great diversity of wildlife (I counted at least 16 species of mammals alone) in a beautiful natural setting was a dream come true, the best part was the people. We piled nine into the World Vision Land Cruiser (we paid for the gas, in case you're a donor!), including 6 Kenyans, 1 Ethiopian, and just 2 mzungus (we of the paler persuasion), and everyone had a blast. We had a picnic lunch that was packed by our "family" at the guest house, although we ate it close to the truck in case any wildlife was looking for a meal as well - and I don't mean our sandwiches. We returned hot and tired, but jubilant, and mentally refreshed for the chiefs training the next day. The only question was whether or not I should show these pictures to Cindy! But I've promised her a return trip, now that I've done the recon - and have so many friends who can't wait to meet her!
Well, that about wraps it up for this trip. As of now, I have no definite plans for the next, although I am hoping to return to Ethiopia later this year or early in 2012. And I've learned my lesson about assuming that my plans are God's plans. Thanks again for all your prayers and support, and I hope to be telling you of a new adventure sometime soon!
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