Adventure of a Lifetime
2023 Trip Blog #3
Written by Cheri Butt
We have not even been here a week yet, and have already experienced a lifetime of adventures.
We are now on Mageta Island, oh how I love this Island! We have exciting stories to share that will be coming soon from our Team.
Our last blog was about our amazing safari. The following morning we headed to Bondo, in the safe hands of our driver and friend, Paul. Paul has been with our MCOH trips since the very first team that ventured their way across the world to do what they could to help. Paul has many Canadian friends and says hi to you all.
We arrived in Bondo Saturday afternoon. Ben, our consultant here in Kenya, graciously opened his home for us to stay with him. He had been looking forward to hosting us since 2020, and was excited to finally have us there. It was so nice to be able to relax in a home, everyone together, including Paul and random chickens who wandered in. Felt like we were at an exotic Airbnb.
Sunday we went to church, followed by a “Not Far” walk to Ben’s mother’s house. We now know we do not share the same concept of distance with Ben. A beautiful 5 kilometre walk in the midday heat with many of us in sandals, as it was “Not Far”. It was worth it to visit with Ben’s mother and Aunt. His mother said she was honoured to have us in her home. We assured her the honour was all ours.
Later that afternoon we went to the new Beyond Limitations office and farm. It was spectacular! Pictures we had seen of the progress did not do it justice. The farm is flourishing with fruit trees and crops. The office building is bright and welcoming.
We met with the Beyond Limitations Team; Peter, Sharon, Molly, Pamela and Simon (who just started last week). They are all wonderful, hardworking and very reliable. We also met with some of the Board Members who represent various areas of community. They have worked very hard to not only keep our programs going through difficult times (drought, locusts, Covid), but helping them to grow stronger.
Our Canadian and Kenyan teams have meshed beautifully. Everyone is smitten with Sydney, especially the kids. Diana is so inclusive of everyone she meets, treating them with kindness and respect, and making them feel special. Jack is instantly friends with everyone. He came equipped with a picture printing camera, bringing joy to every kid who receives one. Paul has been able to see the work we have done in Bondo, and has enjoyed being with new and old friends. Kathy and I have been rejuvenated with the progress and hard work that has been done. We are excited to see what the next two weeks brings with our amazing Team!!
