Jambo, greetings from Kenya,

Today we had the opportunity to tour Rift Valley Academy (RVA). It is an international boarding school for missionary kids and a few locals. They currently educate roughly 450 children. Our own Dr. Dixon was a graduate a few moons ago. We were all highly impressed with the facilities, especially the student dorms. We all agree that Messiah needs to up their game for how much we are paying. An aspect of the school that we found interesting was that all staff live off of donations and support from their network in their home countries.

A fun ritual we got to experience was the daily chai time. This is the time when students and faculty are given a break from their academics to drink tea and socialize. I (Melanie) would thrive during this time of chai and socialization if I attended school there. There is also a tree in the middle of campus where seniors can leave their mugs for their favorite time of the day. Again, Messiah should incorporate this into our daily routine. During our time at RVA, we experienced an intruder lockdown drill which made us realize that there is the potential for evil anywhere in the world. Some of us will be returning to RVA in a few days to job shadow in various capacities.

In the afternoon, we had free time and a few of us had the chance to make traditional chapatis with the wonderful ladies in the kitchen. They were very patient in teaching us and taking us step by step through the process that is effortless for them. We then had the opportunity to make chai with them, which again was fun and effortless for them. I (Matthew) will certainly be attempting to recreate our lessons, no promises though.

We had another run-in with the wildlife, this time baboons. They decided to have a party on the roof, and Sarah saved the day for her roommates when she heroically closed the window in her room.

Other then this, it was a restful afternoon and evening at the Moffat guest house. We are looking forward to a busy day tomorrow!

Kwaheri!

By Matthew and Melanie