If You're Happy and You Know it!

I will have to admit that going to the Ndohivyo Special Needs School has not been one of my favorite activities while in Kenya.  I don't really know why I didn't love it when most everyone else did.  This trip I decided to just jump in and love the children without fear.  When I forgot myself, I finally understand why people enjoy coming here so much. 

The children are truly delighted to have visitors! Their smiles come quickly and light up their faces. 

 In spite of their physical and mental challenges, they radiate joy. 

 Every single time that our van would arrive, we were greeted like rock stars!

 This young girl kept picking up rocks and twigs to give to us.  Gifts for her friends! 

He had the whole camera thing figured out!  He loved making us laugh as he took our picture too. 

Isn't this a sweet face?

This little girl warmed my heart.  You wouldn't know by looking at her but she is 11 years old and only recently arrived at school.  Her many handicaps didn't stop her from smiling. 

Although practically nonverbal, she looked up at me and called me Grandma in her tribal language.  Yes, she stole my heart!

Here we are teaching the group the song, "If You're Happy and You Know It, Clap Your Hands".  They are a happy group of children, surrounded by joyful, loving, devoted, hard working teachers who make the impossible seem possible!

And here's a happy success story to make us all want to 'clap our hands'.  

Meet Mbaji who was brought to the school as a completely non-verbal, extremely low functioning 15 year old. Now six years later, he is in the vocational preparation class and can be sent into the village with a shopping list. He returns with exactly the items needed. A testament to the dedication of the staff who never give up on any student. 

I can hardly wait to go back be with them again!