Ever Nearer...

Spent hours last week on-line, making reservations in Kenya and Rwanda for Mae and me. And now, it seems, all is well. We have places to stay for the entire time in both countries, places which are both reasonably priced and safe. And i'm getting more and more eager for July 3rd to arrive. Yes, that's the departure date...July 3rd, with arrival in Nairobi just after 8pm. on July 4th.

Julius awaits us in Nairobi- driver, interpreter, and friend. I can't wait to see him again and to meet his wife and four children. Don't know how we'd manage in Nairobi without him.

And in Kigali, Rwanda, we are so fortunate to be with our translator and friend, Simon (left) and our driver, Boscoe. Again, we'd be lost without these wonderful men to get us where we need to go. Then add the many grandmothers in Kibera, Mount Kenya, and Kigali, and my cup runneth over! Oh, and we can't forget the grandchildren.

As i make all of the preparations, there is a very real sense of "going home" for me...of heading back to a place where part of my heart has been dwelling since last summer- or perhaps since my first African trip in 2000 to Ghana. Africa is in my blood now- and for those of you who don't understand how this could be so, i cannot explain. Just take my word for it...it is so. Perhaps you'll come with me- via this blog- as i journey this summer, as i share experiences and photos, as i try in some small way to convey the contrasts and conundrums and dichotomies that are Africa today. You're invited! Karibu! Welcome!