Tuesday, August 23, 2005

There was some benefit

This is going to sound strange, but in a way I am not too sad that the Europeans came to our country.

Yes, there was and still is the exploitation of our people and land. Yes, we were denied of our rights for generations. Yes again, terrible things that were done to us and our forebearers like my grandparents being forcibly moved from their ancenstral homes and planted in the Rift Valley. The slave trade etc etc.

But now, I cannot imagine my life without coffee, cigarettes and BLOGGING. I shudder to think what my life would have been in those old days - child bearing, co-wives,working in the shamba, carrying water from the river (tried that once and nearly broke my back!!) fendidng off raids from the Maasai and the Kambas.

What would I do without my books and the TV, movies and travelling?

Them old days are all very well and good for the romantics, but the realist in me is glad not to live in them. I am happy to be a child of the 20th century, to be a Christian. I am happy am independent and have been able to make my own choices, and to have been spared of that life.

Friday, August 12, 2005

Summer time

Thank God for sunshine, heat and SUMMER. It is not as hot as I would like (Mombasa, White Sands, the Indian Ocean !!! Sigh)

I do not have to wear a heavy sweater or coat. This rose is grateful to God for this season. This is the season where I sit in the sunshine and collect as much warmth as I can in preparation for the rains and dark clouds of the autunm.

Oh yes, I miss home very much.

Friday, August 05, 2005

Congratulations Mich PH.D

We have another PH.D. in the family. WELL DONE MICHAEL. I am SO VERY proud of you. You have worked so hard, and stayed focused despite everything.

My cottage at Bamburi Beach is getting closer to becoming a reality