Reverse Culture Shock

Most people realize that when they leave their home country and explore distant new places, they will have some degree of culture shock because so many things will be different. On the other hand, few people talk about what I call “reverse culture shock” (some call it “re-entry culture...

You are Entering a Corruption-Free Zone

Here in Kenya there is frequent talk of corruption in business and especially in the government. And no wonder, because it is fairly prevalent. For example, on a recent matatu (bus) ride outside of the city, all the cars on the road had to stop for a quick police check. Well, it was quick as long as the...

Ladies’ Choice Meats

Just outside of Nairobi on Thika Road there is, in fact, a butchery called “Ladies’ Choice Meats”, complete with the expected display of raw meat in the window. This strikes me as funny for several reasons. Firstly because I find it hard to imagine that any woman would much enjoy the task...

With apologies to Cyndi…

We have been very glad recently to learn some of the more advanced grammar in our Kiswahili class, for a number of reasons. For Eric, he can finally say write some of the more complex sentences that bounce around in his head (hooray for subordinate clauses!). Ainsley is also glad that these skills finally...

Unwritten Rules of Living in Africa

For many of our friends who are either African or have spent some time on the continent, this post is not for you. You already know how the rhythm of life works here and how to live without making extra hassle or being rude to your neighbors. For others, maybe you’ll find it fascinating! We realized...

Faith-Based Furniture

Kenya is predominantly Christian (at least nominally), so countless small businesses are given religious names. One favorite I saw recently was a bus with the slogan “Father, Forgive Them”—I assume they mean the other drivers! And it seems that a majority of the churches and Christians here...