OUR KISUMU HOME
part two


Monica learned to operate a SINGER treadle sewing machine. It's a very nice feature to have when the electric is off. We use these in our native ladies sewing classes. Every week 2-3 ladies come for their classes in the carport or out at the church. Many of you women from the Amish background learned to sew on these machines, as did I. It's good for our daughters to make this heritage connection.

Outside the back kitchen door is the wash line. This area is much smaller than you think. We have enjoyed many days of BLUE Kenyan skies and the laundry dries very quickly.

We have around 75 chickens that supply eggs for all us missionaries. Miriam delivers the eggs to whomever is designated for that day.

David and Myrna gathering eggs.

Also some of you have been asking what we "eat" in Kenya. We do live in Kenya but we do not eat much like the Kenyans do. Maybe we should. It's not all rice and beans and ugali, although we enjoy that when we visit their homes. They have unique seasonings and the flavor is delicious, cooked over an open fire. OUR menu has changed very little. Most things you can buy here as in America. Most dishes have to be made from scratch which takes more time; even something like 'çream of chicken soup' has to be made. Vegetables and fruits are brought in by a native church sister every Wednesday. The tropical fruit we enjoy immensely...pineapples, mangoes, passion fruit and bananas. Because of the constant summer atmosphere, most of us have become abit leaner.

The days pass quickly in Kenya and we forget seasons are changing because there really isn't a change in seasons. We have adjusted to the routine of mission and compound life. Every Monday, the pastors have an all morning meeting. On Tuesdays we often go visiting or attend to some need. Bible Study comes every Wednedsay afternoon. On Thursday, I have sewing classes and Sam may do business or visit a church brother. Every Thursday evening, the compound meets for singing and prayer. It's the only time we gather as a group because on Sundays we have our respective churches to go to. There are occasional Sunday evening activities that we take turns hosting. On Fridays, we go visiting again. Saturdays, we try to stay at home and prepare for Sundays. This all varies abit. Sometimes the needs are more intense than other times. The work is rewarding but not easy. We didn't know we needed FBI training before coming here. We do have a connection with the "Head FBI", so our concerns can be left in His hands.

The last two weeks, a few of us have been stricken with flu and grippe, but we have recovered farily well.

Sam and Mattie Kauffman family