the first week of building 5 years ago….just coral rock foundation
the house almost finished the day we left 5 years ago
The house today! Even though we helped build it it is still standing!
We talked to some neighbors and took some pictures but did not really recognize anyone. We were kid of bummed at this point as we thought that maybe folks had moved. Our friend suggested we walk over to the other area where we had worked on two homes. After a sweaty walk we arrived and right away I recognized the Mama of the village sitting in a doorway. She recognized us as well and we greeted each other. I showed her the pictures we had brought and she shared that her husband; the Mzee of the village had passed away. Within minutes several more women and tons of children appeared. Three of the children I knew the moment I saw them even though they are so much older now. We showed all the children the pictures of themselves when they were only 2 or 3 and they loved seeing themselves. Two little girls I had bonded with during our trip were both there and we got to spend time with them and see their homes. I had brought banana bread muffins for everyone and after some women pulled out a mat under the shade of some trees we ate and shared stories about life over the past few years. They said they were very impressed with our Kiswahili which we would hope because last time we were there we could ask for the bathroom, more water, and say bricks please. So at least we have moved up from that :)We heard about the homes being completed, the families, who has passed away, who has moved, what brought us back, and schools for the children. They even remembered us teaching the kids duck-duck-goose or as we named it “kuku-kuku-jugo (chicken, chicken, rooster).” It was crazy to see how much is the same but also to hear about and see the community development the women in this area have spear headed. Given the cultural boundaries to women in leadership I think they are all rock stars! The hospital that was in the planning and beginning building stages when we were here is finished and now provides a much needed birthing center, care for women and children, as well as medicine and help to those living with HIV/AIDS. Although it was closed because it was Saturday they proudly took us on a tour of the outside and told us we needed to come back when it was open to see everything.
Anni and I with the women and kids today!