As we drive down the long dusty dirt road, the excitement within me intensifies the further down the road we drive and the closer we get to arriving at our destination. Thus far I have only heard of the land and have yet to experience it for myself with my own eyes. As we turn the corner, Joe says “Are you ready?” and I know it’s about to be shown to me. The first thing I see is the guard’s tower, standing tall, strong and protective. We have arrived!

Being involved with this orphanage for the last year 18 months, I have seen the photos of ground breaking, the foundation being laid down, the walls going up. None of these photos prepared me for the specter of seeing it all first hand.

Before continuing, there is something to be said for these workers. The way they work is extraordinary - most of it very hard physical labor, and always with smiles. It is good to know our project is helping support the local workers who are desperate for and deserving of the work.

My eyes first take in the huge front section of the orphanage. As we walk around the various rooms, Joe gives a running commentary of what each (currently empty) room will house. I can just imagine the library with the window view into the green countryside.

The mess hall is large enough to accommodate 40 children. One day over the main door into this room, there will be a fabulous painting or inspiring quotation – the space is just perfect to show case something grand and meaningful for the children to view every day.

Next stop; up the staircase to the second floor. Yes there is actually a second floor now and this will house the volunteers who will want to come to stay at The Lords House of Hope. The two rooms will allow for 2-4 volunteers at a time.

Continuing the tour in the orphanage, we arrive at the second building, where there are the bedrooms for the staff and children. The girls will be on the 2^nd floor and the boys on the bottom level. I think the girls have the better deal in this situation – from the top floor you can see so far down the green rolling hills. I know so much inspirations and creativity will be born to these children just by looking out the window and seeing the gorgeousness that surrounds them every day.

My favorite part of the entire orphanage is the second story balcony which overlooks a river (it’s down there somewhere). The scripture comes to mind, “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10). It is here that I close my eyes and think of what this orphanage will be like when it’s completed and the children are moved in. It is here that I conjure up all the dreams in my head of children feeling loved and supported and living in a place so far removed from the dirt, hustle and bustle and poverty that is Kibera.

Written by Kristy Anderson (02^nd January 2011).