Kenya

I remember the first time I came to Africa 4 years ago. I was nearly tearing up when I had to return to the airport to fly back to the states for Christmas. I had fallen in love with the people, the food, the feeling of gratitude that was constant. Everyone I know who has traveled to this continents says that "Africa gets under your skin" and it is so true. As I am sitting in my apartment in the Norfolk Towers, in Nairobi, I am beginning to tear up as I pack. I am definitely not ready to go home. From a research standpoint, I have all the materials I could want and then some for my dissertation. From a personal standpoint, I love in here, not so much Nairobi, though Mediteranno is delicious, but Kenya. The landscape is beautiful and the people are amazing. In 6 weeks this place has shifted my perspective so much, made me so happy, and in many ways fixed me.

Last year, when I came out to Kenya I had just broken up with the boy. Instead of letting Kenya in and absorbing the experience, I stressed about my dissertation and crushed on a new guy. While the new guy was definitely crushable, when the field season was over, I was ready to go home. This year is the exact opposite experience. I saw old friends, made some amazing new ones; I fully experienced Kenya. I am not only going to miss my Muzungo friends who I work with or see out here, but my Kenyan friends. I am hoping I find an excuse to come back next year.

Victor, myself, Thomas, Joseph, Jared, and Joshua

Jack and Thomas playing football

Waregi F.C. game

Fisherman catching nile perch.