If you knew my husband's family background, you would realize Kenya is not an unusual choice of destination. Michael and his sister spent their formative years living in Kenya. At the age of 37, his most prominent title besides being an electrical engineer remains to be “Missionary Kid.” Michael's parents, Don and Thelma Steeves, have been working as missionaries in Kijabe, Kenya for the last 35 years through an organization called African Inland Mission. They both work at a Christian school known as the Rift Valley Academy.

Most people assume we have little contact with my in-laws because of the distance between us. They also think how dreadful it must be to have your children's grandparents living so far away. My in-laws have managed to come to New Brunswick approximately every 2 years since their grandchildren have been born. Let's just say that when my in-laws decide to visit, they come with a bit of a whirlwind!! I can so clearly visualize them getting off the plane at the Saint John airport. Every time they do, it is like a Deja Vu. They always manage to have a bit of a skip to their walk as they approach the doors of the airport terminal. There is no doubt in my mind, they are anticipating seeing their grandchildren. Reality of their long visit hits me when I spot their infinite amount of luggage. Oh yeah, they are not just staying for supper... they are moving in for weeks at a time! Thank goodness I love them dearly. Personal space is more easily shared in loving situations.

In August of 2002, Don and Thelma plan to retire and head back to New Brunswick. Their rapidly approaching retirement has forced us to squeeze our big family trip to Kenya sooner than first anticipated. Retirement for them must be much more than leaving 2 jobs behind. They are leaving a close community of friends, a different culture and lifestyle, and a country they grew to love. It was only evident in their last visit they are coming into terms with leaving Kenya. Grandchildren seem to be one good way of making the transition easier.

My connections to Africa began earlier than meeting my husband. While enrolled at the University of New Brunswick, my biggest love was the Arts courses. Anthropology held my biggest interest. During my university years, I was able to squeeze in a course on African cultures. Later, I managed to move in with a “missionary kid” from Kenya. One evening, I asked her if she would like to attend a special event at the University of New Brunswick known as “Africa Night”. She told me she had plans but informed me that another MK from Kenya was looking for a partner for this event. I contemplated whether to call this person or go alone. I decided I would prefer to have another “body” to come with me. Little did I know this other body would turn out to be my future husband!

Ten years ago, I had an opportunity to visit Kenya with Michael. Before our trip out, I had seen various photos, slides, and read a bit of information on this country. Kenya is filled with various cultures, numerous landscapes, and different wildlife. How could such diversity exist in such close proximity? It was only after I arrived there that I could start to understand how some of the puzzle fit together. Only then could I begin to appreciate all the wonders this country had to offer.

The most significant factor regarding our second trip to Kenya is that we have the opportunity to take our children with us. Our two children are looking forward to visiting their grandparents, experiencing the airplane ride, and are excited about going on a safari. Our precocious 6-year-old daughter, Julianne, seems to have a realistic view of what to expect. She has absorbed enough adventure stories from her father regarding growing up in Kenya that she has traveled there several times in mind and spirit. I can visualize her bouncing in the parked Land Rover, being somewhat fearful of the animals yet having enough spark to fire questions at dear old Dad. Our 3 year old son, Evan, has a more of an adventurous spirit. By using his natural climbing abilities, he would think nothing of visiting a wild troop of baboons in a baobab tree. He could certainly have a real Tarzan experience! Little do we know what will intrigue them on our travels!

After getting 4 immunization shots, completing passports, gathering visas, getting a life supply of pharmaceutical items, doing some early Christmas shopping, and listening to some African music, WE ARE READY!!! Several friends have asked whether the unstable world issues are making us uneasy. Even though I have my moments, I am making a conscious effort to adopt a carefree “Hakuna Matata” attitude. So far, so good. Michael is calm as usual. Being an MK and having traveled a fair bit has given him the gift of seeing world issues in a broader perspective than my own. I have concluded life is a bit of a gamble, regardless of the world's present turmoil. In all probability, the poor road conditions in Kenya along with its aggressive drivers will to do us in long before any act of terrorism. Hakuna Matata!!!

Now, it is time for our “Survivor Africa” vacation!!!