Nairobi is Not Kigali

We made it to Nairobi and to our hotel at about 10pm last night.  After a short sleep, we got up at 5:15am to arrive at the IOM (International Organization for Migration) medical office at 7am.  We were there until 4:45pm and our actual time to see a medical professional (including nurse and doctor) was maybe 5 minutes.  The good news is that the waiting room was outside, so we had nice fresh air for most of the day and we were with other families from our agency who are very fun to be around.  We are trying to absorb everything with an attitude of gratitude.  While waiting an entire day in an office is not ideal, we are grateful to have all of that time to hold Josiane in our arms and build friendships with some great people.  We are in Africa...how could we possibly have a bad day?!?

Driving in from the airport last night, we saw some interesting sights.  First, there were trees in the median of the highway filled with huge white birds.  We couldn't see details, as it was dark.  Shortly after, we saw HUGE vultures hanging out in different trees with large bats hanging from some of the branches.  I'm not sure I would have wanted to see them in the light.

Nairobi reminds me a lot of New York City.  It is busy with traffic, both vehicle and pedestrian.  It has a gritty feel to it and seems like a city with much to discover.  We are staying in City Center at the Nairobi Safari Club Hotel.  It is near many shops of all kinds, a large supermarket (the Nakumatt, which was also in Kigali), and restaurants.  The University of Nairobi is right around the corner.

Tonight, we attended a birthday party!  One of the little boys turned 3 today.  It was so much fun to celebrate with him and his parents, who are first-timers.  Pure joy!

Tomorrow, our medical papers should arrive at the US Embassy early in the morning, in time for our mid-morning appointment.  We will find out when we are to arrive home after tomorrow's appointment, as they will give us a date when Josiane's visa will be ready.