Sara Mwende Mutua

I have been reborn as Sara Mwende Mutua!  Mwende is my Kenyan name and I am part of the Kamba tribe.  Mwende literally means, "one who much loved."  My family is incredible and I find that the days fly by and every night I am so exhausted that I sleep so soundly I dont move and wake up in the same position.  I have learned how to wash clothes like a real Kenyan and I am also taking splash baths and using the "choo" (toilet) which is outside in a dark square room.  Our home has no running water and the electricity is limited to only a few hours a day.  Even with the missing amenities that I have become so accustomed to, I find that I am exponentially more happy and alive then I even was in the states.  There is time to breathe in this world and accept things as they are instead of rushing to change every little thing.  Attached are some photos of my family and my home.  There are also a few of my fellow PCT's (Peace Corps Trainees) and of my PCS (Peace Corps Staff) including the hot language teacher Sam!

First Week In Kenya

 After a total of 30 hours of flying, terrible airplane food, crying babies, swollen legs, and a 5 mile ride in Nairobi that took 2 hours because of the horrific rush hour traffic, I have finally settled down.  Right now I am sitting in a conference hall on the compound I am staying at for the next couple of days.  The crickets are chirping outside and its about 70 degrees at 8pm.  I felt that I should up load a few photos so you could see some of the other volunteers and the hostel I am staying Enjoy!

Rachel, Cyndi, and I on our wal