Tony and I had been discussing how we would celebrate WWC's third anniversary last week, and settled on returning to Olootepes Picnic Site. We both agreed that it was a great idea that I make an unannounced visit, as these types of trips reinforce to the staff that the "boss" can show up anytime, and "all of you must always operate WWC as if Simmie is coming tomorrow."
This morning, while I was gulping coffee, Tony picked up the children and staff and took them to Olootepes, where there is a pool, swing sets, a motorized mini train for the small ones, football, a bouncy castle and bicycles. We stopped along the way to pick up two pre-ordered cakes. I looked at the cakes laughing, and said "Tony! Pole, but it is WWC's third anniversary, not fourth." Tony was having none of this. "Hapana" he argued.
The children were all in the pool when I arrived - to much mayhem and happiness! I love surprises and particularly love sneaking up on the children. Their reactions are so sweet and predictable...just heartwarming. Everyone looks happy and healthy; some children I see a physical difference in, in just 5 weeks. This always amazes me. Clearly, our nutritional program has a solid and positive affect on the children's lives. Thomas will be taller than me by the time I return in October.
The staff are all doing great. Huge hugs and smiles all the way around. "Bernard!" I bellowed, laughing. "How long have you worked at WWC?" Always proud, Bernard announced so seriously: "Three years". We ganged up on Tony immediately - who remained in disagreement :-)
The children scampered around this 20 acre picnic site like there was no tomorrow. I love the way they understand the importance of this occasion, and reveled in talking about it.
Njeri
Catherine
Josie
Peter
Apparently, Tony was hungry. We feasted on a goat (even had left overs), chips and kachumbari - a wonderful dish of fresh tomatoes, onions and lots of parsley. Everyone had second helpings.
Penina
It was Tabitha's birthday today, as well! She turned 10. Tony and I stopped quickly so I could grab some candles for the cake - trick ones, at that! Below, you can see from the children's faces how amused they were by these candles repeatedly coming to life!
I felt very honored to get the first bite of cake, after Tabitha and I sliced it up in decent sized pieces. We managed to eat 1 full cake, and half of the other.
Grace, Eunice and Penina
It was such a happy day today - I am so thrilled that I made this trip. It will be a short one, but worth the time it took to get here. Excitement, pride and appreciation are in the air!
Three years of growth and thriving, happy children. What more could one ask for?
With much love and enormous gratitude to all of you for your support and love.
Today was one special day.
Lots of love from Watoto World Center!
Simmie and all of us at WWC
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