Settling In

Thanks to so many who have sent thoughts, prayers, and money for Cathy and her family.  You recall that after Cathy's home was broken into, her family moved the very next day because of fear that the robbers would come back (they had a key).  Cathy lived in a very unsafe neighbourhood for 2 weeks while they looked for a new place.  On March 1, Cathy, Ken, and Rickie moved to a much more secure home.  I gave Cathy my camera to take some pictures to share with you.

 Like their other home, this one has one room for living, sleeping, eating.  Cathy has been able to purchase a few things to re-establish her home.  She also received several donations of basic items -- sheets, blankets, pots, utensils.

What is wonderful about this new home is that they now have their own toilet!!  With running water!!  Cathy is so excited about this and she giggled like crazy when she told me that she even has a shower now.  Imagine!

There is a small area, shared with other people in the village, where Rickie can safely play.  One concern that still remains is that Cathy does not have child care for Rickie in this new home.  At the old home she left Rickie with a neighbour when she went to work.  She now has to make new arrangements.  There is a pre-school nearby that will accept Rickie (age 2) beginning in May.  This stilll leaves some time without a good arrangement.

One of the saddest things for me was that Cathy's water filter was stolen.  But we were able to use a donation from kind friends to buy her a replacement.  Cathy was so grateful for this new stainless steel filter.

One downside is that this home is a bit further away from their work.  Cathy and Ken now have to take two matatu (20 minutes driving).  But it seems this is a small price to pay for a beautiful new home in a safe area.