We are safe in Nairobi.

Dear Friends –

Little did I know when I started the idea of the blog that I would need it for communication. But here we are. Funny how the Lord puts these things in our heads sometimes! We will use the blog to update you on how we are doing during this stressful time here in Kenya.

The election in Kenya was held December 27th. The current President was announced the winner, and immediately sworn in. The results are in question with allegations of vote-rigging on both sides. There have been incidents of violence in some areas of Nairobi as well as Western Kenya and some of the Coastal areas.

We were out of the country on a family vacation. We had the feeling things would be rough, and we made the decision to be away. We were scheduled to return December 29th, but changed plans due to the scheduled announcement of results. We eventually returned January 1st. Things were calm when we returned to Nairobi – in a spooky sort of way. If you know Nairobi and can imagine driving through the city without traffic, you know what I mean.

We had stocked up with some supplies before we left to be on the safe side. We were able to get out some today and stock up on a few more things. Some stores have reportedly had empty shelves but were able to restock today. Petrol (gasoline) is hard to find, but we were able to find diesel and fill one of our cars. Horace went out once this morning and was able to further stock up, so that we have enough food to last for quite a while. Fortunately, by mid-afternoon, the shelves seemed re-supplied on some things.

Please be aware that most of what we are experiencing is inconvenience. We are able to stay put for the most part and not venture too far from home, but we feel no immediate danger in our home. Our Kenyan friends are not all so fortunate. Many are living in fear. While this may not be true in all areas of Kenya, there is real reason for some of them to fear just by virtue of the people group they were born into. It has become evident here in the past week that tribalism is here, and it is rearing its ugly head.

Prayers would be in order especially for tomorrow (Thursday, January 3). The opposition party has scheduled a demonstration in the City Center. While they are saying they wish it to be peaceful, the government has announced that this march will be illegal if it is held. None of us are quite sure what will happen. We prayed this morning that the Lord would touch all of those involved and turn the tide of violence towards peace. We also prayed that all would seek the Lord in all of their actions and decisions.

We will write more as we know it. For now, be assured that we feel safe in our home. We feel blessed to know about people that have been praying for us and for all of Kenya. Please continue to pray for us, but continue to pray for all the people of Kenya. It has been a peaceful place to live, and there is so much beauty in this land and in these people. As with any emergency situation, you can imagine the rumors can run rampant. Please pray that all in this country will be able to discern fact from fiction and make the best choices for their families and their circumstances.

Peace and Blessings from our family to yours,

Anne