We're singing in the rain...

The last few nights sleep have been fitful, as we have been awakened by the rain slamming down upon the roof, and falling in cascades upon the balcony. It rains so hard that even the inimitable guard dogs, who spend thier lives barking at intruders, residents, chickens, insects, each other, nothing, ad nauseam remain schtum. This rain is, believe it or not a blessing. Not only is incessant and pointless barking wearing on the nerves, but East Africa is currently in a severe drought. This is evidenced by much complaining that it has only been possible to work 2 days a week as there is no electricity for the other 3 working days (most electricity here is hydroelectric). The drought is so bad that the Masai have started to bring their herds of cattle into Nairobi to eat whatever vegetation is available. Apparently around 90% of the herds have died, and those that remain are heartbreakingly thin. Perversely, one gets a sense of how massive cattle actually are when the skeletons are in such stark relief. The herders walk along folornly at the side, looking very serious, but light up when we say hello. We have not yet had the heart to take a photo, but shall try in the future. Every Kenyan we talk to is overjoyed that it is raining - 'it is a blessing from God', but secretly, we cannot wait for the sun to appear.