Introductions

We realise that we have been remiss in not introducing you to the cast here in Nairobi. So here goes…

Four households, all alike in dignity, in fair Karen where we have our house.

Firstly, Anssi and Marja Simojoki, indomitable Finns who have been here for 20 odd years. They are the parents of our curate Tapani, and so our original African contact. Marja works for the Finnish embassy here, whilst Anssi runs the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Our companions on our trip to Mombasa, they are a kind, welcoming and amusing couple, who have introduced us to the Nairobi Orchestra and the pleasure of saunas. They are going back to Finland this week, and will be sorely missed.

Next, the May family, consisting of James (Dad, an American who thinks crisps are chips, and chips fries – ‘dogs eat biscuits’), Tiina (Mum, another Finn, aka Tiin according to her residents permit), Maggie (8, princess), Tristan (7, future chameleon hunter), Sarai (6, explorer), Sophie (3, a little monkey, literally) and Jonas (1, dribbles a lot). Number 6 is on the way. Our fellow adventurers at the Nairobi National Park, the kids are always ready for a game of ‘cops and robbers’.

Then comes Sabina and her family of two girls. Sabina is the house manager here in the compound, and keeps everything running very smoothly. If we come back fat, it is her fault, as she organises the food. Jo is currently giving Janet piano lessons in her 'spare' time. (Photo to follow shortly).

The other flat in the compound is occupied by some Africn Evangelical Enterprise workers. We have little contact with them, apart from Yvonne, a lively and fun girl of 8, who joins in the games of cops and robbers.

However, the LHF is a hub of activity with many colourful characters dropping in for a day or two, adding to the daily excitement. These characters I am sure will drop in and out of the stories which we tell. But special mention must go to Carine the Congolese. She has already appeared in our blog and I am sure will be a feature in the future.