Niko Hapa

I'm here! After over 24 hours of travel, I was greeted at the St.Lawrence KSP compound in Karen, Nairobi with true Kenyan hospitality. KSP driver na rafiki wangu sana, Njau, picked me up from the airport after we discovered that the airport now has 2 completely different international arrival terminals, neither of which were there 2 years ago. We began the drive on the newly constructed bypass into Karen, catching up on the last 2 years, including being quizzed on whether or not I remembered or could tell where I was. Most of my uncertain nods granted a "no, you don't know where you are". The construction of the bypass and added airport terminals had changed the scenery, the all too familiar sounds and smells of rich spices mixed with fumes from the industrial section, confirmed that I am, in fact, back in Nairobi. Finally we turned onto the familiar gravel driveway leading to the gate into the compound, sparking another bout of nostalgia. Njau and I went into the main house, greeted by the smell of roasted chicken, sukuma wiki, githeri, tumeric, and gravy from Seth's cooking, and a huge hug from Lina. As we ate, we visited with Lina, talking about the years activities, reminiscing from KSP spring 2014, and the 40th anniversary of the Kenya Semester Program when they were able to come to the US and we were able to flip the card and show them around our home. It's moments like this that make you realize the truth behind the term "laurentian for life".

This morning I was up at 5am, I'm not really sure where my brain thinks it is, but it definitely is not on Kenyan time. After messaging home a bit more, and letting out some more excitement, I slept another hour or so, got ready for the day and went to find Sinnary, surprisingly in his office. We sat outside had a refreshing conversation about what everyone has been up to, the environment, future plans, religion, and politics over coffee and cigarettes. There are always conversations to be had, I love this place and these people.

Nothing is more liberating than travel. I am never more at ease than I am when I'm on the road, or in the air. I have already met new people, and learned a little more about the world.

One, the Alps are freaking AMAZING;

 

And Two, a smile and 'beer' are understood internationally.