Sundown on the Athi Plains

Sundown on the Athi Plains

This weekend we traveled out of Nairobi to meet with our friends, and team mates, Tim and Diane Bannister. They live in a thatched roof cottage on large farm set upon the Athi plains, about a hours drive outside of Nairobi.

Tim and Diane have coordinated short term missions in Kenya for Canadian Baptist Ministries (CBM) since we joined the mission together in 2006. For anyone who has come to volunteer in Kenya with CBM over the past four years, you have no doubt had the joy of spending time with the Bannisters and likely visiting their beautiful home and the nearby Acacia Camp. Prior to joining CBM, Tim and Diane served for 20 years with Africa Inland Mission where they worked with Rift Valley Academy, a international christian boarding school for missionary children in Kijabe, Kenya.

As we begin our new role with Guardians of Hope, the Bannisters help will be invaluable -- not only with facilitating short term volunteers, but in their cultural experience and development perspective. We are so thankful for the blessing of team and the joy of camaraderie as we journey forward.

Ava having a cuddle and a chat with our "uncle" Tim

Our children had a great time riding their bicycles as wildebeest and gazelles watched on from the distance. Of course, you can't cycle long in Kenya before the countless thorns puncture at least one tire -- Oh well, it was fun while it lasted!

Sunset over the Athi Plains

A lone male Masai Ostrich watching us as we headed back to Nairobi

When we arrived home, we were delighted to see that Henry and Reese have adjusted well to our new puppy, Hermione. Henry is very protective of her and Reese has without a doubt adopted her as her own.

Hermione hanging out with Reese and Henry