interlude

So this has nothing to do with the trip that I took to Italy this year. It actually has to do with a trip somebody else is in the middle of.

My baby sister is in Kenya right now. She is spending three months there learning about the community and working with the kids in a children's home and school. If I may, I will take a moment to wax nostalgic about that girl.

She is incredible. A rail-thin, super-model who dresses like a hipster, right down to her big, thick-framed glasses. Her hair is big and wavy, she's got a million-dollar smile, and she adores the fact that she is three inches taller than me. Her sketchbooks are full of various works of artistry, usually accompanied by a poetical tag. She has got a huge heart, the ability to make somebody feel like they are the most important person in the world only two seconds after they meet her, and a lot of courage. Most of the time, she is the bravest person I know.

Sometimes, like we all do, she doubts her ability to do things on her own - but she is so strong. This is my sister who packed up and moved to Africa to have a new experience, make a difference in the lives of somewhere between 100 and 150 kids, and learn something new. She was in Mexico this past year, and wants to do a trip to Central America next year with a project that has to do with providing clean water. Her plans for the long-term future are not concrete, but whatever it is, you can bet she'll be helping out. This is not a girl who is incapable. I admire her tenacity, her chutzpah, her humility, her fortitude, her willingness to serve those around her, her determination, and generally just her ability to endure.

I miss her. I miss her a whole heck of a lot. [Although I am enjoying the use of her closet while she's gone - she's got great taste!]

If you're interested in following the blog she's writing while she's away (keep in mind her access to the internet is not exactly reliable), please go to http://ameliawiens.blogspot.com/
You'll notice it's called "Harambee." This is swahili that has become Kenya's motto. It means "Let us all pull together." It's perfect for her.

Song of the Day: If You're Out There by John Legend