From Heather, our Executive Director:
Met Toni at 8:00 am at Lambert and off we went on Continental to Houston. Wish the signage at the Houston airport was as friendly as the people. Two very nice TSA workers who were off-duty helped direct us on the transit-train, and a kind young man heading home to his family in Dubai helped us load our bags onto two carts, one of which seemed to be possessed, not wanting to steer whether pushed or pulled. After 3 false turns we found the British Airways counter. Toni and I have 4 bags to check, each weighing in at 46-50 pounds, two hefty carry ons, and two fully stocked backpacks. Toni resisted the urge to tell curious and less encumbered onlooking travelers that we packed lightly for a weekend trip.
Checked in with British Airways, met Elizabeth Arnoldy Pomerenke, and caught up with my fabulous friend who now resides in Houston, Maureen Favo. Our flight from Houston to London was a mere 8 hours. With a 4 hour layover in Heathrow, we then embarked on our second 8 hour flight, this one to Nairobi. This flight was affected by the British Airways strike, and the captain’s announcement including an introduction of the smashing cabin crew, and please be kind to them, they include first officers and others who are having their first experience as flight attendants. I have to say, the attitude was indeed smashing, and they kept us hydrated and well served throughout the flight. Arrived in Nairobi on schedule, and gathered our bags, went through passport control, and met Susan of Jamii Bora, who with a driver delivered us to Saverberg Retreat House. This is where we are leaving Father Joseph’s luggage, which we sherpa’d on behalf of Sister Paulette. Our own bags we lugged up to our rooms on the fourth floor. Hit the hay by 11:30. It’s midnight now that I’m settled in, and the driver will be back at 5:15 tomorrow morning to return us to the airport in time for our 8:00 am flight to Entebbe.
First impressions: Nairobi is busy, humming, even late at night, and seems sprawling. The passport officials and baggage claim attendants were friendly. Susan could not have been more warm and welcoming. Somewhere in all this Friday turned into Saturday. I was so tired it took Toni to realize I was trying to open room 12 with key 13. But a horizontal bed is sweet.
Give an Alternative Gift this year
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