Braving the Volcano

As the title of this week's post indicates, a volcano was braved.  It sounds more exciting than it is in reality.  Timothy, his friend Landon and I took a hike up Mount Longonot which is an extinct volcano about 15 miles from here.  We have climbed it in the past and reported on it.  However, the twist to our excursion this time was that at only 2 KM up the 8 KM hike, I slipped and twisted my ankle.  Ouch!  So, the big challenge, after resting a few minutes and trying to decide what to do next (either go home or hike up the rest of the way on a sprained ankle) was to determine the importance of climbing that volcano.  I ultimately decided that since I would not have desired the boys to climb it without any adult supervision, I would do the "Dad Sacrificial Thing" and finish the climb.  The whole way down (which was more challenging than up) was trying to decide on how Jullie would answer my decision.  I decided that her response was going to be "that was pretty stupid". 

I am glad to say that I know my wife very well.  Her response when Timothy told her what happened was "well that was pretty stupid".  Timothy and I did a high five!!  Meanwhile, I am back to walking after 4 days and will probably be able to run in another 3-4 weeks.

Timothy and Landon looking over the Great Rift Valley

Timothy and Landon

Jim and Timothy after the long (and painful) hike down

Jullie is away this weekend as she helps Rift Valley Academy escort the high school band members around Nairobi for concerts at various places.  This is an outreach opportunity for the band to not only show their musical talent at other schools but also bring the Gospel to others in a slightly different way. 

Since Jullie is there, I will give the weekly update.  Jullie and I have now got our hands completely filled.  She is now helping RVA build the new "arts and crafts" building.  The contractor for that project has mobilized and they are about ready to commence excavation.  Pictures of that project will be added to the Kijabe Projects Page soon. 

She also informed you of a new project that we are working on together at Upendo Village.  This is an HIV/AIDS outreach that is operated through the Assumption Sisters of Nairobi.  A Catholic order.  We have provided our recommended main contractor to the US board and now are awaiting their decision.  With GOD's help, we will break ground on that project by July.



Upendo Village Administrative Building in the Foreground

 

The Bethany Kid's Children's Center continues to move forward.  I have updated the Kijabe Projects page but here is a link to a youtube video showing the progress over the last 9 months of building.

Time Lapsed Movie of the BKCC

Blessings to all this week. 
Jim

Remember: John 10:10
I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.