Well… here I am in the airport…. My last day in Kenya was spent waking up very early to catch a matatu (public transportation, with the escort of a generous HEART staff) to Kenyatta National Hospital, where I had the opportunity to watch a couple more surgeries (including a surgery where they removed the thyroid glands and a gastrointestinal surgery). You know… typical day in Kenya. After watching the surgeries, I went to class with a friend who is a medical student at University of Nairobi. That was fun. J I returned to finish packing my things, lead one last devotion for the HEART staff, and say my “Tutaonana”s (“See you later”s).
After numerous trips to the airport to pick up and drop off interns, it’s hard to believe it is finally my turn to return to the States. Where did the past three months go? I have been so busy that I don’t even know where to begin recounting all of my experiences and adventures.
It’s not the best feeling—going back to the States. Don’t get me wrong… I am absolutely stoked to see my family—my parents, my brother, my sister-in-law, my NEWBORN NEPHEW (so exciting!!!), my “sister” Susan, even my cat…but saying goodbye has always been so hard—and full of tears. As I said goodbye to the staff I was saying farewell to my Kenyan family.
My heart is definitely still pounded into the dirt of Kenya—and I am convinced will always be. I have even been told by Kenyans that I have African blood. J I will very much miss this place I consider home.
The fact that even though this summer had its challenges but I still anxiously await the day I return makes me wonder what God’s long term plan is for me in respect to Kenya… Last year I was in Kenya two months…This year three months…what will next year be? It makes me excited to think about it. J
Thanks to all who have been a huge support to me—through prayers, financially, thoughts, encouraging words—whether I know it or not. It means the world to me.
I look forward to seeing many of you soon to share stories of how God stretched me (like taffy!) this past summer.
My theme for this summer: “Faith through the Refining Fire” (1 Peter 1:3-9)
All my love and gratitude…
