Life Facts According to Kenna

Jambo!!

Kenya has been quite the experience! Everyday I am learning so much about life, love, relationships, the world, and myself. So I thought instead f doing a long post like I usually do, I would do some facts that I have learned. These are proven facts. And by proven I really mean they probably are true...at least some of them.

1) Laughter is the strongest medicine. The youth at the centre have been through more than I could ever imagine. However, they are so loving and kind. I am pretty sure they are like this because of their amazing sense of humor. I have heard some indescribable stories while in Kenya, but the individual is always so excited about life and ready for whatever. They are able to appreciate life. Whenever life gets   to be too much, they simply fix it with medicine.

2) Just because a vehicle says it sits a certain number of people it really can fit triple that number. A matatu (big van that is like a bus/taxi) typically has fourteen seats and twenty-five people. Okay, I maybe exaggerating a little, but not very much. If we are going out of town the matatu will have the correct number of people. However, if we are going into town or back to the centre, they pile that sucker up. It is totally okay if an old man is in your lap or if you end up holding someone's baby while you are sitting someone's lap who is sitting on a piece of wood between two seats.

3) Avocados fix anything. Really enhances your meal.

4) Just because something has dirt on it does not mean you can't wear it. My definition of clean has changed. Things are never really get all the way clean. For instance wearing clothes for several days in a row is now my norm. Washing your socks and then still having red on them is not a big deal. Deodorant is not really common. (Hot showers are also not really common). Dirt is always in our room and sometimes even follows me into my bed. I wouldn't have it any other way now. (I feel kind of bad for my roommates next year now).

5) Kenya has the best drinks ever. American soda is awful compared to their Coke, Sprite, and Fanta Orange (not to be confused with Orange Fanta- it is different) And if you know me you know I hate Coke...but I drink it all the time here. Awkward, I know. Their tea is amazing! They have great milkshakes, fresh juice, and SO much more.

6) Kenyan football is great than American soccer. Also, if you ever go to a football game in Kenya and walk in with a jersey on right after you purchase it expect a standing ovation (yes, I walked back to my seat and at least 200 people were standing up clapping and cheering because of my newest addition to my wardrobe).

7) Americans can not dance. I am sorry, we just can't. My dancing has been defined as "mzungu style". (Mzungu means white person in Swahili). Clubs here would put any American club to shame because of Kenyans' ability to dance.

8) Fruit for 5 shillings is the best thing since sliced bread.

9) When you set on a time to leave or meet, just add 45 minutes to that time and that is when you are actually leaving or meeting.

10) Mega beds- every house should have one. In the female room we added a bed to the two beds that were already in the room to make one giant bed. Three beds barely fit in the room, so they are all touching. I love it! I am always right next to two of my newest closest friends.

11) Live life to the fullest. Do not be afraid of new things, that is when you start missing out.

12) Embrace the awkwardness. It is fine. Whatever happens, live it up. Laugh about it later.