San Diego Rugby 7s

San Diego was lovely.

Got to the airport late and was convinced I missed my flight. Of course there was a long line at the Southwest counter. You could sense the impatience in the line; meanwhile the workers appeared to be moving in slow motion. They seemed understaffed. But then again, that's probably why we can get cheap tickets. When I finally got to the front, I found out all the flights were running an hour late so I made it =)

Cruising down North Harbor Drive from the airport to downtown, I could see people walking around enjoying the sun. I love cities where you can actually walk around. (I think people tend to be fitter too when they can get out of their cars and walk around--the mall doesn't count.)The ocean was right there, huge ships and small sailboats were docked by the water and palm trees stood proud and tall along the roads. Too bad I didn't get a picture to share. I was asking myself, "Why don't I live here?"

Fast forward to reuniting with old friends and attending a concert Sato night with our talented Kenyan musicians performing: Nonini and the Longombas. The Djs were fabulous.The only downer was it got really cold. We were outside the city in one of those huge tents. And you know how us ladies tend to wear those cute skin-baring outfits to parties? I kept my jacket on.

Anyway, the Kenyan team made news even before they played their first game. One of the San Diego magazines was talking about how they did well even though things were rough at home. There was also a commentary about how Kenyan fans are the loudest and most enthusiastic. So true! It was great to feel the energy of the crowd and the pride we had identifying ourselves as Kenyans.

Sunday night, I saw Jua Cali perform. He had incredible energy and got the audience going. I missed the previous performances by Amani and Ida. The club was really nice, with the celebs in their vip area. Afterwards, people were taking pics with celebz and buddies. The after bash was at the tent place once again (it was still freakin' cold!). And this time, the security detail at the door were being a-holes: once you paid and entered, you had to remain inside for the rest of the night. And nobody under 21 was allowed in. Since when was age an issue with Kenyans? While I am over 21, a buddy in our group wasn't. Funny thing, it wasn't an issue the night before. Anyhow, we couldn't get past the door because of a very stubborn security person who identified us. We tried getting the organizers to help. A few tried, but I remember one dude who brushed me off by informing me he was on his way to the airport. Apparently, there was an off-duty cop or two among security. This was a faux pas on the part of the organizers--Take over djs. If this was a purely Kenyan event, then there should be Kenyans at the door controlling who gets in and out. Anyway, the rugby team came to the party and people got a chance to mingle with buddies and celebz alike before heading back to their hotels and catching a flight out of San Diego. Till next year!

Get-Away II

Just returned from the mountains. What's the point of Spring Break if you don't have a change from routine? Sometimes, you need a change of scenery. Unlike a previous trip , this one was spontaneous.(I've been accused of not being spontaneous). I took part in activities I haven't done in a long time: hiking and biking. My muscles are still aching from one of the hikes we took: it wasn't that long, approx. 3 miles--but we were going up a steep rocky mountain. I thought I was fit coz walking is part of my daily activity, but this was on another level. There were lot of families there and we'd see some small kids going up with ease--that time you're thinking "how can a kid who's 5 or 6 yrs old handle this and I can't?"

We also biked down a rocky, unpaved mountain road with multiple twists and turns. There were several times I was sure I'd fly over the handlebars. Like lots of people out there, I have a fear of heights. Now and then I have morbid thoughts. I pictured myself being thrown off the rocky cliff and dying--then people would be asking what killed me. The answer amused me: "she was mountain biking." Well, it wasn't that extreme, I just have an active imagination. I have renewed respect for outdoorsy people who hike and bike on a regular basis. The food was tasty and healthy plus we had a campfire with s'mores of course! (S'mores are toasted marshmallows smooshed between chocolate and graham crackers--they're so sweet that 1 or 2 is enough for me.) Most of the travellers were the young international crowd which is fun to hang around. You learn about culture and other ways of life and compare them to your own. I'm impressed with the travelling culture that people from other countries have: of course finances and visas determine freedom of movement. Travel seems to be a rite of passage in parts of the world, so even people who aren't super-wealthy go places. I think it's an excellent idea.


Watching: The Original Kings of Comedy (one of the few dvds I own)

Listening to: Furahiday by Nonini feat. Nameless

Leaving on a Jet Plane (II)...

home!

I'm superstitious so I didn't wanna talk about it too much for fear of jinxing it (well, other reasons too). I'm finally leaving on my trip and I live in shagz (that's the countryside) so I'm not so sure how my internet access will be. Went on marathan shopping session yesterday and got help packing from my siblings. A dude at the bank was looking at my DL and was wondering if my relaz would recognize me. (Btw, the shilling has greatly appreciated in value.) I do look different now. Leafing through an old yearbook, I can see the differences. I know my ideas and views of the world have changed a lot since I left. I can hardly wait to see my parents.

Happy New Year y'all!

Breathy issues

A couple days ago, I was sitting next to a man who was reeking of onions. I glanced at sideways and saw a takeout container on his lap. An image flashed into my mind immediately: a chicken dish I had at a Turkish restaurant that should be translated into 'raw onions with chicken.' It tasted pretty good but I couldn't eat all those onions. Now, I do love the flavor of onions. They're such a basic in Kenyan cooking and other dishes from all over the world. What I have a problem with is the breath or scent they leave behind especially when consumed raw.

It's said that drinking coffee will take away onion & garlic breath but that leaves you with another problem: coffee breath. That can be dealt with by sucking on a mint or chewing gum. But anybody who has recurrent bad breath should probably get a dental check-up 'cause that's a sign of gum disease. Not funny at all. Don't know where I heard this, but going to the dentist is one of the most common fears (along with public speaking). Furthermore, basic medical insurance doesn't even cover seeing a dentist, you have to get an additional policy for that. Anyhow, once you get there, the sound of those drills headed toward your mouth is sure to put you on edge, in addition to the pain and sensitivity you may already be feeling. It takes a special team (dentist & hygienist) to make you feel at ease while they perform their skills. Which is why I'm feeling sad that my dentist is retiring. He's such an easygoing man. All the best to him as he goes on to the next stage of life.

Seems like many people are on the move. A close friend/brother figure and his girlfriend are going to Brazil (her home) for a few months. When he told me, I was thinking "I wanna go too!" And I plan to in the next few years. Sometimes, I get this feeling of being left behind. I've lived with people from different parts of the world, so many go back to their homes. I'm already making plans for all the places I want to go at the end of the month, next summer, in a couple of years, and even in 5-6 years. The world is open (visas are a whole other issue).

To Kenyan Students Headed to the U.S.

There have been several humorous and very realistic posts on what Kenyan (or Tanzanian, Ugandan) students can expect when they leave home for the West. Y'all will get more advice than you ask for. I won't attempt to be a wise guru who's figured it all out 'cause I haven't, I just want to share a few things based on real life experiences (mine and others').

1) Welcome to the land of work. We're not just talking the 9-5, with a break for tea and lunch. That may happen or not. It can be any hour of the day or night, weekend, weekday, or holiday, during extreme weather but it doesn't matter because work goes on. A lot of human labor goes into making this huge economy churn and you, too, will become a part of it. Work can do wonders for you: obviously an income, nurture skills and talents, acquire knowledge, various benefits, a professional network, friends, and life experience. Dealing with huge responsibility will come with rewards (not always monetary). But everything comes at a price. You will find that work will conflict with school, personal life, health, religion, or personal values. You'll have to figure out what you're willing to do or put up with and for how long. If you get stuck somewhere, hopefully it's temporary. Everyone has to start somewhere. Focus on the bigger goal and where you're heading. Even though it may be a minimum wage, 'unskilled' job, you will learn skills that you'll apply to your future career. Do your thing, and do it well. By the way, be careful about asking people where they work unless they volunteer the information.

2) You can do things your way, and get off the beaten path if you wish. Risky? Perhaps. You'll never know unless you try it. Many people can have the same goal, but there are different ways to get there. Choose what works for you in your own unique situation and don't take any bullshit from negative people who try to discourage you. It's your life after all.

3) It's a dangerous world. Some may already have survived traumatic experiences at home. Others have led a protected life. Everyone quickly realizes that the streets aren't paved with gold. On the contrary, some of them are filled with the poverty, desperation, and violence that characterizes the West's dominant view of the developing world. Often, you turn on the tv and listen to the horrific crimes that happen to some innocent child, woman, or man. Some days, it hits really close and you question your safety and well being. You hear the gunshots. Then you read the news report on the homicide and stare at the flashing lights and bright yellow police tape. And you may even think, "hell, that could have been me." Because, it could be. This scary thought makes one reexamine priorities and focus on survival.

4) Although there are many grim details and stresses in life, it is essential to have a heart and retain some faith in humanity. Because when you're down and almost out, the least likely person could step up and do something for you even though they don't owe you a damn thing. And in turn, you will get the chance to do something for somebody. It may seem insignificant, but you may never know how deeply you impact a life.

Get-Away

In a few hours, I'll be leaving for the weekend. I'm not even done packing yet. It's not some romantic mountain cabin get-away (I wish!), it's a school thing. Another speech tournament. I can hardly wait for it to be over. Sad to say that I don't really care much for anything except my grade in the class. The advantage of being perceived as dumb is that people don't expect much of you. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, these people think I could be good at this. I'm just tired and have other things on my mind. I'm thinking about the extra work hours I'll miss and I'm always on the move so it drives me crazy when there's too much downtime but not much entertainment/activity. It's not that I can't relax, but I'd rather relax at home or in certain settings. Maybe I am a control freak 'cause I've been accused of not being spontaneous. Oh well...Wish I already had a Macbook (on my wishlist) so I could carry it with me. Hope everyone out there will have a more fun weekend than mine.

Da Vinci, Bad drivers, & the Cocktail Within

This past weekend, I had a great trip out of town: saw old buddies, ate a lot, drank plenty, and had a wonderful time socializing. Enjoyed the sunny west coast weather and the sights. On my way there, I sat next to a pleasant older couple. After chatting briefly with the gentleman, I saw 'Angels and Demons' by Dan Brown in his hand. I asked if he'd read 'The Da Vinci Code.' He had but wasn't enthusiastic about its portrayal of secret societies. The he showed me his Mason ring. There are so many myths surrounding them but I won't get into that. I do know for a fact that they are very wealthy and run children's hospitals (Shriners) which give free care--but the kids have to meet certain criteria. This has to be one of the most widely read books around the world. It has sparked off genuine interest in religious history, art, Europe, the Knights Templar, secret rituals, Leonardo da Vinci, and Jesus. Lots of other books on the subject have since been published, and there are tours that highlight the museums and churches mentioned. The movie had better be good!

My rant of the day: bad drivers! When I get into a car and somebody is going to drive me somewhere, I don't ask for their DL or where they learned to drive. I assume the person knows the basics, but there are times I have to break the silent passenger code and interfere for safety reasons. I was riding with a dude today whose driving made me so nervous that I will never get into his car again. Slowing down while crossing an intersection, running a red light when there were other cars coming, chilling at a 4-way stop for too long, parking and blocking cars, the list goes on. I felt like yelling, "Are you blind!" I was very relieved to get to my destination. I don't want to die in a car accident, that's scary.

As time goes by, do we grow up into different people with new personalities or are we born with multiple ones that take turns dominating? Seriously, are there times you find yourself doing or saying something is just not you? You're thinking, the old me would never do this, but it makes perfect sense right now! Although we may all have the classic Jekyll/Hyde aspect, I think we're made up of a more complex blend. Like a cocktail: it can be sweet or sour, icy, fizzy, colorful or clear, strong or watered down, and may have extras (olives, cherries, lime, mint...) that make it memorable.

Leavin' on a jet plane

One of my closest friends is leaving the country and going back home. I am going to miss her a lot. We've been through a lot together: from high school years to college in a foreign country. Being roommates in college was such a fun experience! At first, I worried that we'd fight and the tensions would ruin the relationship. However, it worked out great, we complemented each other very well. One of the things I miss most are the late night talks that began in high school: the lights were out, everyone was comfortable in pjs and tucked into bed, and the vibe was flowing. No topic was sacred: crushes/boyfriends, anal teachers, our health, politics, NASA, sciencific research, secret cultural practices, religion, world travel, and home. I'm happy for her because it means she's closer to realizing her dreams, but I'm sad for myself because it feels like my world won't be such a friendly place after all. Once in a while, when someone close to me undergoes a major change, I get the feeling that I'm being left behind. One of the hard things about getting older is realizing that a certain phase of your life is over: you get to keep the memories and the odd picture or two. You realize that everyone has a different calling and that can lead you in different directions, geographically and otherwise.

I bought a ticket to visit my buddy and say goodbye, but I just found out she'll leave sooner than planned so I won't see her at all. How messed up is that? A minor detail: I have a nonrefundable ticket. So I'm going anyway! It's alright coz I'll get to visit other buddies in that area and I could use a getaway. So, I will also be leavin' on a jet plane....

Icy Texan roads and the best places

I was in Texas recently visiting my sis and cousin who go to school there. First of all, I am so grateful to make it back safely; I believe that God is watching out for our well-being. (But does it mean that if something bad happens to you that God isn't watching out for you? Does it mean that it's your fault? What if it isn't?) The weather was horrible the weekend I was there: no offense to y'all that live there but I couldn't deal with the huge swings in the daily temp. One day it's in the 70s-80s, then it suddenly drops to 30s-40s. Then again, it is winter so what the hell did I expect? The roads were icy and when we went out on Sato night, we saw at least 10 car accidents if not more. There were cops and firemen on the freeways as well as ambulances. As we were passing, it seemed so unreal...kinda like in the movies when there's some disaster going on and you see all these people who've been hurt. At that point you are praying, "Please God keep us safe." If you've been in an accident before, you start having flashbacks. You start to think, 'what if...?' But then you quickly stop thinking coz you'll get so freaked out. When you finally get to your destination, you sigh with relief. Anyhow, spending time on a college campus took me back into the past. I think when you're an undergrad, it's nice to live on campus so you're close to all your classes. Yes, we all bitch about living in the dorms and eating in the cafeteria. But once you move out on your own you realize how convenient it is. Commuting can be stressful as many of us find out the hard way. Road rage is very real--I switch personalities when I'm behind the wheel (as many of my passengers have witnessed, he he..) It's nice to live where you work or study whenever possible. But it can't always be done so you compromise or maybe you move.
Talking about moving, there's this website www.bestplaces.net so if you live in the U.S. or Canada you can go on it and check out the stats for different cities. You get to pick your preferences (big or small city, crime level, education of the residents, transport, healthcare, arts and cultural activities...) and in the end it shows you your ideal city to live in. I went on it and guess what? In the end the best place for me was the city I already live in! I really love this city and all it has to offer. It's far from perfect, but it's the right place for me now. Every time I come back into town from somewhere else, I get this wonderful feeling; my heart skips a beat. Living in the city is so stimuating; you are surrounded by sights and sounds and there are endless possibilities. I've lived in shagz for most of my life so for all you veteran city dwellers, be patient with me! I'm one of those confused people you would run into on a Nairobi street, clutching my hand bag tightly and scrutinising the signs and people around me with a bewildered expression. I used to live there when I was very young so I remember my primary school, peroz workplace, Kenyatta market, and our estate in South C. Most of the other times I was in Nairobi, I was getting chauffered to specific locations (it's not that glamorous: by school bus, relaz, etc). Of course I've pandad mathreez. Anyhow, I'm hungry right now, I'm about to kula some nyama and vegez so I'm signing off. Then off for some weekend entertainment!

LA Rugby and old friends

So, I'm packing for a weekend trip to sunny L.A. The Rugby 7s are taking place this weekend and the Kenyan team is there to proudly represent us. Let me confess how little I know about the actual game--I just know when they've scored and of course the whole tackling thing. I don't know much else. Blame it on not attending a school with a rugby team, or spending too much time indoors reading, whatever! But who can resist the sight of young, muscular, toned male bodies running back and forth a grassy field? It takes a lot of strength, speed, and skill. Word is there are kenyan celebz in town who will be performing. Hot shows for sure! But what I'm really looking forward to is seeing some old friends. You know those buddies that knew you way back in the day: y'all did homework together, confided in each other about your crushes, and your worries on relationships, crazy teachers, stressful jobs, religion, hairdos, clothes...etc. And as life goes on, one person moves north, another goes south, while the rest remain. You call each other a lot in the beginning, e-mails of course. Then we all get caught up with work/school and one day you wake up and realize it's been ___yrs since I saw my good friends. We know that as time goes by, changes happen. I know I've changed alot of my views. I know some friends who've undergone major changes (like joining the military). There's always a fear that changes will drive you apart. It's great to have a history together, but we all need to have new memories and experiences together. So that's when you meet and spend time together...One thing for sure, I'll miss my bed. I just love sleeping in my big, comfortable bed and everyone who's slept in it agrees with me. Time for bed!