48 hours.

My title feels like it's either a Barbara Walters Special or that show on A&E-The First 48.. Either way, that's not really what I am intending.

What I mean is: 48 hours until I depart on my journey! The closer it gets the weirder it feels. It's so funny though because the more I tell people I am going the more I learn about people who just went and loved it or people who would love to go. It's something I should have learned in my last year traveling North America, but the world is really much smaller than you think.

So a bit more about specifics.. I am traveling to Kenya to volunteer with The Nakuru, Kenya Family Project, also know as The Gabriel Learning Centre. It was started just about one year ago by this wonderful Australian woman, Susan. I haven't met Susan directly, but I was referred to her by a mutual friend, Kristy (another person I haven't met in person, but feel closely connected to as a fellow DG (Thanks again to Megan and Whitney and the Anchora for making it happen!).. it's amazing the things technology accomplishes these days and another reason the world is really so small). Anyways, the program is smaller and more personal than some of the others I entertained thoughts of traveling with.. I have asked Susan every question in the world possible and she answers me within 24 hours. But this is not really the point.. More about the program and what I will be doing 7,300 miles away...

From what I can tell The Gabriel Learning Centre is many things, but it was founded with the idea that if you teach someone to fish, they can eat fish for life. The adult school teaches women tailoring/dressmaking, as well as some English and basic math skills so they can be tailors and dressmakers- a profitable trade in the community as students must wear uniforms to attend school. There is also a nursery that cares for 20 4- and 5-year-olds who cannot afford to attend school; I believe the hope is that in 2-3 years, the program will be able to assist in funding for their education. In the meantime, this is a safe haven for them- somewhere they get at least one well-balanced meal a day and a nurturing environment. The program runs on a few volunteers and several paid staff. While I am there I am not 100% sure of my responsibilities while there. I may help teach a class, help in the nursery, take someone to a medical appointment... I will help where it is most needed, but also where I feel the most connected.

With that I will leave you all until the next time.. I may try and post once more just before I leave... Otherwise look for me sometime early next week when I have landed, explored Nakuru and settled in a bit!

L<3ve always,
Sarah Jane
a.k.a. Cella, sister, daughter, friend, Stella, niece, granddaughter and so on...

P.S. In little less than one week, I've raised over $500 to spend over there where the need is great(est). Thank you all for your help, love and support. I will be sure to keep you posted on where the funds end up. Maybe I'll start posting some pictures when I get there too! :)