Me and a friend called Maggie, a tall light skinned beautiful girl are seated in the cafeteria talking about the class we have just come from, the lecturer’s mood and how much we enjoyed the class. She the explains her respect for authority and good nature revealing her disciplined character which made me want to know more. She then explains that this character trait is a result of her upbringing, her father a raised them to obey elders and respect them since they are older and are owed the respect. She recalls an incident where her father took her to see an old relative who explained the benefits of obedience and showed her an example of a girl in the village who was disobedient and how sad her life had turned out.
By Rose Wangari 08-0779
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Anecdote: 08-1333
I sat with her on the SB stairs facing the vast savannah watching the sun kiss the starved grounds. “I didn’t like my childhood much,” she said. She spoke of her family with a deep sense of forlorn. Withdrawn. “On my first day of baby class, when all other kids where calling out mommy, I just stood there; wondering what mommy was.” That was just her first step to the realization that all she has was her. To fight, to appease, to assert, to survive-for her
Extinct by Alex Mutai (08-0788)
He sat next to me in class, calm and collected. Well, that was I though until he opened his mouth, “Churchill is not funny!” Amazed, I got to know the personality behind the appearance, I was filled with envy. At first, I though he was so self-absorbed that it border narcissism. But there he sat, he was everything I hate but he did it with some much flayer, so eloquently that it looks effortless. Anthony Gichira does not now how to sugar coat. He tells it like it is. Rare, refreshing and everything most of us wish to be. He is the remaining few of a species that is almost extinct...
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
ANECDOTE- PATRICIA NG'ETHE- 08-1297
The sun was at its zenith radiating its energy into our bodies. We were seated outside on the veranda with Teresa, whom I was interviewing. She was smiling brightly as she narrated a scuffle she had with her sister Catherine. A sunny Saturday morning in July 2010; they were preparing to attend a wedding at Hurlingham. Teresa had promised to lend Catherine a beautiful sundress for the wedding. She however did not keep her word after Catherine declined to make her breakfast that morning. Teresa decided that she would have her vengeance. Catherine ended up missing the wedding. She had no dress to wear.
ANECDOTE: BEATRICE KIMEU 08-1303
It was a cold Saturday evening at around 8pm when I was chatting with my cousins giving them a heads up on my date with the my hairdresser and what we had planned for the night .When I was fifteen maybe sixteen…no maybe fourteen actually it was when I was sixteen when I decided to my first night club. The walls were sound proof and black in colour, the lights were in different shades actually all the colours of the rainbow were represented. The music from the club was so loud that you would hear it pounding in your heart.
Everyone that entered the club was stamped as recognition to show that you paid. The stamp was placed on your left hand and when you stepped in the dance floor you could see it reflect in the different colour shades. At the corner of the club was a area that was know as “tot by tot” were drinks where in plenty.
Everyone that entered the club was stamped as recognition to show that you paid. The stamp was placed on your left hand and when you stepped in the dance floor you could see it reflect in the different colour shades. At the corner of the club was a area that was know as “tot by tot” were drinks where in plenty.
Monday, February 21, 2011
ANECDOTE: A BETTER ME 08-1003
We sat inside a scarcely populated coffee shop facing each other in town. “When I was 7 years during a holiday my 14-year-old brother started beating my 10-year-old brother on the upstairs corridor. After a while I tried to stop him but he refused so I insulted him. Instantly he turned on me, I cried hysterically. Eventually I calmed down and threatened to tell.”
“He said, ‘tell mum also what you said. When something is wrong you shouldn’t justify it. Even if I curse you shouldn’t do as I do.’ “Since then I don’t to something wrong just because others are.
“He said, ‘tell mum also what you said. When something is wrong you shouldn’t justify it. Even if I curse you shouldn’t do as I do.’ “Since then I don’t to something wrong just because others are.
Ann and Confidence-Joy Carole 08-0464
As we walked on the dirty brown squared tiles towards the corridor close to SBG03, I could not help hiding the excitement I had because I was going to interview someone I had once heard about .The trees in a nearby flowerbed slowly swayed and the wind echoed in the Sb corridors as we sat on a wooden desk to do our interviews. The first thing that anyone can notice about Ann is her confidence. She told me about an incident that made her known. It was in January, 2010 at around 4pm at off-campus when Ann confronted a man who had harassed her friend. She stood her ground; head held up high and confidently told the man to apologize for what he had done. No one could believe that a short, young lady could actually confront a mature, giant size man. Almost everyone in Daystar knows Ann’s story and they all say that Ann and confidence is one thing.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
The Club House Lounge by Alex Mutai(08-0788)
Poised at the bar, I turn around looking for a familiar face but all I saw was youth in excess - colossal consumption of alcohol. Struggling to dance made it harder to know whether they where hammered or didn’t want to miss a beat.
They wore the very best and most famous names in the fashion industry, Louis Feraud, Hugo Boss, Lalesso an endless list and they wore them beautifully- clean cuts, exact fit and clean scent filled the room.
In small clusters of a maximum of six they stood- small enough to control but large enough to lie to themselves that they have friends. Exclusive was the event that meant it was fairly crowded with some of the affluent and illustrious names in Kenya.
Energy and life fill the room, the high-end detailed ivory colored leather sofas, the curvy light fixtures the hang from the ceiling and walls. The vases that were strategically positioned in the club house lounge to bring the room together but far enough to not cramp the style. Maxwell, Dwele, Erika Badu are some of the names that featured in the playlist that set the perfect ambience- slow, rhythmic and soulful.
They wore the very best and most famous names in the fashion industry, Louis Feraud, Hugo Boss, Lalesso an endless list and they wore them beautifully- clean cuts, exact fit and clean scent filled the room.
In small clusters of a maximum of six they stood- small enough to control but large enough to lie to themselves that they have friends. Exclusive was the event that meant it was fairly crowded with some of the affluent and illustrious names in Kenya.
Energy and life fill the room, the high-end detailed ivory colored leather sofas, the curvy light fixtures the hang from the ceiling and walls. The vases that were strategically positioned in the club house lounge to bring the room together but far enough to not cramp the style. Maxwell, Dwele, Erika Badu are some of the names that featured in the playlist that set the perfect ambience- slow, rhythmic and soulful.
08-0746 Sarah Ogola
Nature: My All Time High
I constantly heard of the rocks. They always spoke of its long distance from the school compound and the dusty road that led to it, so I expected nothing spectacular as I walked towards my destination. It sure was a long distance and the road dusty but all of that occupied the back of my mind when I saw the rocks they solemnly spoke of.
I moved closer to them as the strong cooling breeze blew past me. The warm rock on which I lied massaged my stressed body. I smiled, closed my eyes as the gentle clouds above me calmed my fears, the beautiful shades of the suns’ rays consumed my heavy thoughts. I was surrounded by great serenity. One by one the spectacular stars appeared and shone over me. All was so overwhelming that I saw nothing but the moon, the stars, the fading coloured clouds and the images I had formed from them; I heard nothing but the cool breeze, nothing but His Beauty, His wonder, His love.
There I was, away from the craziness I experience every day, the faces that cause my heart to ache, the smiles I have to fake, far from reality and its forceful demands.
At the rocks I can run away from life’s actualities, I can just lie there and let nature devour my worries and effortlessly bring out my joy. I can be free, let go; love, cry, complain and my vulnerability will cost me nothing but bliss.
I constantly heard of the rocks. They always spoke of its long distance from the school compound and the dusty road that led to it, so I expected nothing spectacular as I walked towards my destination. It sure was a long distance and the road dusty but all of that occupied the back of my mind when I saw the rocks they solemnly spoke of.
I moved closer to them as the strong cooling breeze blew past me. The warm rock on which I lied massaged my stressed body. I smiled, closed my eyes as the gentle clouds above me calmed my fears, the beautiful shades of the suns’ rays consumed my heavy thoughts. I was surrounded by great serenity. One by one the spectacular stars appeared and shone over me. All was so overwhelming that I saw nothing but the moon, the stars, the fading coloured clouds and the images I had formed from them; I heard nothing but the cool breeze, nothing but His Beauty, His wonder, His love.
There I was, away from the craziness I experience every day, the faces that cause my heart to ache, the smiles I have to fake, far from reality and its forceful demands.
At the rocks I can run away from life’s actualities, I can just lie there and let nature devour my worries and effortlessly bring out my joy. I can be free, let go; love, cry, complain and my vulnerability will cost me nothing but bliss.
A HOME SECOND TO NONE by Mary Nduku(09-1244)
The first thing that meets your eyes as you enter the spectacular home is the peach tiled hallway. It is about two metres long. The walls are painted bright orange and two long paintings of Maasai women breastfeeding their young ones hang opposite of each other.
At the end of the hallway is the living room, looking very cozy.Brown well polished leather seats are neatly arranged in the room and on them are light brown puffy pillows, the type u just want to cuddle after a long day at work or at school.A huge plasma television hanging on the wall is hard to ignore.
At the centre of the living room lies a fluffy zebra-stripped carpet which is spotlessly clean.On it is a rectangular glass coffee table with a unique shape, the type you would not find in a Kenyan supermarket.There is a book on it by Steve Harvey titled 'Act like a lady, think like a man,'clearly speaking volumes about the owner of the home.
There is a fire place at the left side of the room, and right beside it is a large family portrait. Every member of the family on the portrait bears a huge smile clearly indicating that in that home,'hakuna matata.'
At the end of the hallway is the living room, looking very cozy.Brown well polished leather seats are neatly arranged in the room and on them are light brown puffy pillows, the type u just want to cuddle after a long day at work or at school.A huge plasma television hanging on the wall is hard to ignore.
At the centre of the living room lies a fluffy zebra-stripped carpet which is spotlessly clean.On it is a rectangular glass coffee table with a unique shape, the type you would not find in a Kenyan supermarket.There is a book on it by Steve Harvey titled 'Act like a lady, think like a man,'clearly speaking volumes about the owner of the home.
There is a fire place at the left side of the room, and right beside it is a large family portrait. Every member of the family on the portrait bears a huge smile clearly indicating that in that home,'hakuna matata.'
MY GRANDMOTHER'S BASEMENT- PATRICIA NG'ETHE-08-1297
MY GRANDMOTHER’S BASEMENT
It is my least favourite room in my grandmother’s house perhaps the most dreaded room in the house; the basement. Constructed in the early 1970s, my grandmother’s house boldly stands on the Leeward side of Mt Kenya in the outskirts of Nanyuki. The faded iron sheets that crown the house shine brightly as they reflect the sun’s rays meanwhile; beneath the main floor of the house is the sinister room.
A flight of old creaky wooden stairs lead to the creepy underground room which shadows my mind with dark and eerie thoughts. The door is brown and faded with a crack cutting diagonally through its length. The dark musty room has grey walls covered in thick layers of cobwebs and houses spiders, lizards and possibly bats. It is filled with many unused items that have been piling up since the 1970s.
A broken grand piano sits crookedly at the centre of the room covered in over twenty years of accumulated dust. Two bookshelves stand on either side of the walls filled with books dating back to the colonial period. Scattered all over the dusty unpolished floorboard, are numerous stacks of boxes containing both known and unknown items that belonged to my late grandfather. It is believed that his spirit lingers in there and that is why it has been untouched for a long time.
It is my least favourite room in my grandmother’s house perhaps the most dreaded room in the house; the basement. Constructed in the early 1970s, my grandmother’s house boldly stands on the Leeward side of Mt Kenya in the outskirts of Nanyuki. The faded iron sheets that crown the house shine brightly as they reflect the sun’s rays meanwhile; beneath the main floor of the house is the sinister room.
A flight of old creaky wooden stairs lead to the creepy underground room which shadows my mind with dark and eerie thoughts. The door is brown and faded with a crack cutting diagonally through its length. The dark musty room has grey walls covered in thick layers of cobwebs and houses spiders, lizards and possibly bats. It is filled with many unused items that have been piling up since the 1970s.
A broken grand piano sits crookedly at the centre of the room covered in over twenty years of accumulated dust. Two bookshelves stand on either side of the walls filled with books dating back to the colonial period. Scattered all over the dusty unpolished floorboard, are numerous stacks of boxes containing both known and unknown items that belonged to my late grandfather. It is believed that his spirit lingers in there and that is why it has been untouched for a long time.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Pauline Kirubi (08-1007)
I FINALLY FOUND THEM.
I was hurriedly walking down the streets when my eyes spotted it. I have always wanted something like this so I stopped and immediately bent down, took it in my hands to have a closer look. It felt very smooth and soft since it was made of velvet. It was crimson red in colour on the outside and black on the inside. Without a second thought, I took off the one I was wearing and tried it on. For sure it was my lucky day since it turned out to be a perfect fit. The vendor was shouting at the top of his voice so as to attract the attention of the passers by. I had to tap him on the shoulder and ask for the price. With a smile, I gave him the money and whispered, 'thank God I can afford it.' I took off the ones I was wearing and asked the vendor to pack them for me. Proudly I put on my new crimson red, velvet, four inch heels and kong, kong, kong,I walked away with a swing.
I FINALLY FOUND THEM.
I was hurriedly walking down the streets when my eyes spotted it. I have always wanted something like this so I stopped and immediately bent down, took it in my hands to have a closer look. It felt very smooth and soft since it was made of velvet. It was crimson red in colour on the outside and black on the inside. Without a second thought, I took off the one I was wearing and tried it on. For sure it was my lucky day since it turned out to be a perfect fit. The vendor was shouting at the top of his voice so as to attract the attention of the passers by. I had to tap him on the shoulder and ask for the price. With a smile, I gave him the money and whispered, 'thank God I can afford it.' I took off the ones I was wearing and asked the vendor to pack them for me. Proudly I put on my new crimson red, velvet, four inch heels and kong, kong, kong,I walked away with a swing.
The University with a difference
Standing on a 300 hectare piece of land, the school houses the different minds that are being nurtured to be the future servant leaders of Africa. The diversity of the students is as outstanding as the location of the school. Not so far from the ever busy and fast city life but very close to the wild, the school is surrounded by a tranquil environment that is home to some wild life such as zebras and giraffes. Complete with modern buildings and all the current technology needed for the purposes of learning, great minds are linked and great ideas are turned into a reality. Reaching out to give a helping hand are the ever vibrant faculty and staff, who are out to achieve the mission and vision of the school set forth by the management. The community around the school has been able to grow in various fields such as housing and labour. Daystar University, a university with a difference…
Descriptive story by Judy Mwendwa 09-0805
SERIOUS LADY.
I came to know her a year ago when she found me in a bad shape, lying down helplessly in a ditch along a street in Nairobi, with blood oozing from my nose. She took me to her house, which seemed so welcoming, a good place to be. Just before we entered the house I couldn’t help it but notice her well trimmed garden of flowers which produced a welcoming fragrance.
I have Joan for a friend. She stands tall, medium weight; she always has a well combed hair and well trimmed and manicured nails. She amazes me how she does things, just like she is doing it for the last time. Sometimes I wonder how she manages to do her assignments, chair meetings of the many committees she is involved in and make it to class in time without getting stressed up. I some times think that may be she has more than twenty four hours a day. She is this kind of a student who is always punctual in class, always attentive, submitting assignments in time, never crossing people’s paths and when you make a joke she doesn’t burst into laughter but only smiles despite how funny the joke is.
I came to know her a year ago when she found me in a bad shape, lying down helplessly in a ditch along a street in Nairobi, with blood oozing from my nose. She took me to her house, which seemed so welcoming, a good place to be. Just before we entered the house I couldn’t help it but notice her well trimmed garden of flowers which produced a welcoming fragrance.
I have Joan for a friend. She stands tall, medium weight; she always has a well combed hair and well trimmed and manicured nails. She amazes me how she does things, just like she is doing it for the last time. Sometimes I wonder how she manages to do her assignments, chair meetings of the many committees she is involved in and make it to class in time without getting stressed up. I some times think that may be she has more than twenty four hours a day. She is this kind of a student who is always punctual in class, always attentive, submitting assignments in time, never crossing people’s paths and when you make a joke she doesn’t burst into laughter but only smiles despite how funny the joke is.
Monday, February 14, 2011
The Longing:
There she sat, staring. Her eyes piercing the cold glass of the window, thick with expectation: waiting to see a posh, sleek Mercedes pull into the driveway. She waited eagerly that dreary, rainy night. She waited for the car. The one that papa drove.
Her tiny frail hand held tightly to the tattered doll. The rugged doll, one eye missing from too tight a grip of friendship. The frayed doll with a tear on its delicate French lace. And crayon markings adorning its face – a manifest of too long a spell of love. Her six year tattered, rugged, frayed nanny. The doll she liked best. The one that mama bought.
And tonight, like every other night she hugged her doll and prayed. She whispered quietly for her parents to pull up in the Mercedes. The one that papa drove. She uttered in undertones for her parents to come, tuck her safely in bed with her doll. The one that mama bought.
And tonight, just like every other night she took herself to bed. Wishing dad was there to read her that bed time story, and from mom, that goodnight kiss. Wishing she could at least dream of her parents getting home safely in the Mercedes. The one that papa bought. And she smiled – that sweet, sad smile – crept into bed, and cuddled her porcelain doll. The one that mama bought.
Her tiny frail hand held tightly to the tattered doll. The rugged doll, one eye missing from too tight a grip of friendship. The frayed doll with a tear on its delicate French lace. And crayon markings adorning its face – a manifest of too long a spell of love. Her six year tattered, rugged, frayed nanny. The doll she liked best. The one that mama bought.
And tonight, like every other night she hugged her doll and prayed. She whispered quietly for her parents to pull up in the Mercedes. The one that papa drove. She uttered in undertones for her parents to come, tuck her safely in bed with her doll. The one that mama bought.
And tonight, just like every other night she took herself to bed. Wishing dad was there to read her that bed time story, and from mom, that goodnight kiss. Wishing she could at least dream of her parents getting home safely in the Mercedes. The one that papa bought. And she smiled – that sweet, sad smile – crept into bed, and cuddled her porcelain doll. The one that mama bought.
'LETTING GO' 09-0387
Monday is boring for most people probably due to the long weekend of merrymaking. As for me it is my best day because after indulging in all kinds of foods, I visit the gym and remind myself that my health is as important as any other thing in my life.
The gym in Daystar is located near the cafeteria, opposite Grace Hostels. Outside is crowd of people who have their eyes focused on the game of pool. Inside loud music can be heard from a distance which makes it hard to miss it.
The room is four cornered with dark coloured walls. The floor is worn, dirty and has mats thrown all over.
There are two offices that are used as stores for the various games played outside the gym. In one corner is the treadmill, stair case climber and the bike. On the other end are weights of all sizes. Next to the weights is water for those who get thirsty.
We begin the daily routine of warm ups before proceeding to other exercises. Men with big muscles are busy lifting the weights in turns while the ladies are doing less strenuous exercises. The room is well ventilated as the workout routine is sweaty. The gym is a good way of relaxing and burning extra calories. The next time you pass by, join in ‘letting go’ of the extras.
SUSAN by Linda Anemba 08-1003
Susan is standing outside the white picket-fence gate of her house. Her white maisonette in a suburb estate has a designed, mahogany door. The upstairs and downstairs vertical sliding windows are open exposing plain pale-yellow curtains blowing in the wind. Her two front steps leads a cemented path to the gate dividing her carpet grass front lawn in two. Flowers have been planted on either side of the path and along the fence round the house. She has a round bird bath fountain on the right with birds splashing merrily.
Susan looks rather disillusioned despite her upright poise in a fitting, elegant, light-pink chiffon dress; straight, knee-high with shoulder length sleeves, a v-neckline and a short closed back-slit. Her mind is so far into space that she does not notice a short stubby man approaching her. “Excuse me….Ms……Excuse me” he calls cheerfully.
“Yes, can I help you?” answers Susan rather absent-minded as she turns to face him.
AN EARLY U-TURN BY TINNAH KIIO-09-0941
my sister woke me up early on Sunday morning interfering with my sweet sleep. I knelt on my bed pretending to say my morning prayers in a bid to extend my sleep. She left me behind and went ahead to have her breakfast."Where is Toto?"I heard my mother ask in a strong voice as her heavy footsteps headed towards our bedroom. Thank God this was the last time we had a fight over waking up to go to church.
She grabbed me from my bed as i shouted a loud amen to prove that i was praying but obviously she could not buy that. It was my habit anyway. After i was prepared, my sister was given our offerings but on the way i demanded for my share. She gave me five shillings of which i i used two to buy sweets. I had never liked going to church, and i didn't like my pastor. He always gave bad examples with me and never gave me gifts like other children.
I sat next to a young lady.As soon as the teacher stood, i got out my sweets."No, don't take that, children who love Jesus don't eat in church, bring them child I'll give them back to you at the end." The lady said in a low voice.I Surrendered them,"but who is Jesus?"I wondered. Within an hour the lesson was over. She carried me outside and told me very sweetly about Jesus and that he would love me if i would stop lying and eating in church. I accepted and since then life has never been the same.
She grabbed me from my bed as i shouted a loud amen to prove that i was praying but obviously she could not buy that. It was my habit anyway. After i was prepared, my sister was given our offerings but on the way i demanded for my share. She gave me five shillings of which i i used two to buy sweets. I had never liked going to church, and i didn't like my pastor. He always gave bad examples with me and never gave me gifts like other children.
I sat next to a young lady.As soon as the teacher stood, i got out my sweets."No, don't take that, children who love Jesus don't eat in church, bring them child I'll give them back to you at the end." The lady said in a low voice.I Surrendered them,"but who is Jesus?"I wondered. Within an hour the lesson was over. She carried me outside and told me very sweetly about Jesus and that he would love me if i would stop lying and eating in church. I accepted and since then life has never been the same.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
THE HYRAX 09-1209 GACHUHO MARY WANJIRU
Hyraxes have stumpy toes with hoof like nails, four toes on each front foot and three on each back foot. The longer claw like nails on the inside toes of the back feet are used for grooming and scratching. The bottoms of the feet have a rubbery texture to assist in climbing steep rock surfaces and trees. It is said to be the elephant's nearest living relative. It looks like a robust, oversized guinea pig, or a rabbit with rounded ears and no tail. Rock hyraxes are very noisy and sociable. Adults make use of at least 21 different vocal signals. The most familiar signal is a high trill, and is given in response to perceived danger. Rock hyrax calls are referred to as “songs.” Hyrax songs can provide important biological information such as size, age social status, body weight, condition, and hormonal state of the singer, as determined by measuring their song length, patterns, complexity, and frequency. The rock hyrax spends approximately 95% of its time resting. This animal is found in Daystars University Athi-river campus.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
THE MODERN WIFE.by: MARGARET WANGUI 09-1397
A new wife was being welcomed at the husband's home in the usual traditional manner. As expected she gave a speech;
"My dear family, first I wish to thank you for welcoming me to my new home and family, secondly, my being here does not mean that I have come to change your way of life and your routine, No, I will never do that, never in a million years."
"What do you mean my child?" asked the father-in-law.
"What I mean dad is………… (looking at her in-laws);
Those who used to wash the dishes must carry on washing them.
Those who used to wash your clothes and clean should carry on doing it.
Those who cooked should not stop at my account, AND, most importantly,
Those who used to go to the shamba must continue doing so!!!
"So what are you here for?!!?" enquired the mother-in-law distastefully.
The new wife turned around and started dancing off her hips infront of the whole family saying she was there to entertain their son.
Be aware of those whom you take home to your parents..You may be forever shocked.
"My dear family, first I wish to thank you for welcoming me to my new home and family, secondly, my being here does not mean that I have come to change your way of life and your routine, No, I will never do that, never in a million years."
"What do you mean my child?" asked the father-in-law.
"What I mean dad is………… (looking at her in-laws);
Those who used to wash the dishes must carry on washing them.
Those who used to wash your clothes and clean should carry on doing it.
Those who cooked should not stop at my account, AND, most importantly,
Those who used to go to the shamba must continue doing so!!!
"So what are you here for?!!?" enquired the mother-in-law distastefully.
The new wife turned around and started dancing off her hips infront of the whole family saying she was there to entertain their son.
Be aware of those whom you take home to your parents..You may be forever shocked.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
ROBBERY WITH A SMILE By Alex Mutuku 09-1153
ROBBERY WITH A SMILE
By Alex Mutuku 09-1153
With unemployment skyrocketing among the youth, the fear of being mugged is not the only reason you should think before walking out at night. The new threat to your money does not even approach with a menacingly hooded face hissing threats though clenched teeth. The new thug is friendly, even generous and will walk up to you with the smile of an angel.
This new ‘career’ has been embraced by most youths who have found that their college certificates with limping grades have no niche in the increasingly competitive job market spiced up by individuals pursuing their postgraduate studies while working. It leaves a lot to be desired when we see our young men and women who by all means trying to make ends meet engaging in this funny habit.
Making an appearance at most of the drinking joints in our major cities, you will spot these guys relaxing on different corners with several bottles and very welcoming at the spot of new entrants. It is only a fool or a stranger who can give in to their talks as they seem so persuasive with their diction of ‘sheng’ and English.
To be forewarned is to be forearmed .For men, once you are busy sipping the fruits of your hard earned labor and the drink has taken its toll, a lady with a wide suggestive smile usually makes an appearance and sings your praises of how handsome you are and how you look good on your attire. As you swim in this river of praises and your ego massaged, without your conscious they usually add some concoctions to your drink suspected to be used by surgeons to make patients undergoing surgery sedate. This gives them the right to steal your valuable goods and make a silent exit. Beware!
By Alex Mutuku 09-1153
With unemployment skyrocketing among the youth, the fear of being mugged is not the only reason you should think before walking out at night. The new threat to your money does not even approach with a menacingly hooded face hissing threats though clenched teeth. The new thug is friendly, even generous and will walk up to you with the smile of an angel.
This new ‘career’ has been embraced by most youths who have found that their college certificates with limping grades have no niche in the increasingly competitive job market spiced up by individuals pursuing their postgraduate studies while working. It leaves a lot to be desired when we see our young men and women who by all means trying to make ends meet engaging in this funny habit.
Making an appearance at most of the drinking joints in our major cities, you will spot these guys relaxing on different corners with several bottles and very welcoming at the spot of new entrants. It is only a fool or a stranger who can give in to their talks as they seem so persuasive with their diction of ‘sheng’ and English.
To be forewarned is to be forearmed .For men, once you are busy sipping the fruits of your hard earned labor and the drink has taken its toll, a lady with a wide suggestive smile usually makes an appearance and sings your praises of how handsome you are and how you look good on your attire. As you swim in this river of praises and your ego massaged, without your conscious they usually add some concoctions to your drink suspected to be used by surgeons to make patients undergoing surgery sedate. This gives them the right to steal your valuable goods and make a silent exit. Beware!
Friday, February 4, 2011
ONCE BITTEN.......BY TINNAH KIIO 09-0941
You might have found yourself asking me, "why don't you want to light the gas cooker?", or wondering,"why is she height phobic?" Here are the answers.
One Tuesday morning, at the age of four, though very young, i remember the day vividly. Mum and dad had left for work, and left me with our househelp. Although to date i thank her for helping bring me up, i also blame her for the many bad encounters that i had during those good old days.
After her normal house chores, she left with her boyfriend, mutuse, who came to visit her oftenly, i can't remember his look very well but he was usually in green suits, he looked like a game warden.Out of boredom i decided to climb a tree to cheer myself up,little did i know that there was a beehive. When i was almost at the top of the tree, i heard the buzz of bees.I had heard father tell a story of how they bit a woman to death in their home village and i could not wait for them to kill me too. I decided to come down holding the stem of the tree dear to avoid falling. The more they came closer to me the more i got scared, lost balance and unfortunately tripped and fell down with a thud.
My neighbor came to my rescue after hearing my loud cry and took me with her. She nursed my wounds and promised to cook me chapatis as an incentive to keep me quiet. She sat me beside the gas cooker as she prepared them. She gave me one to taste, i say, she was one of the sweetest i had come across then. I started forgeting my pain though my legs hurt very much when i moved them.
Tragedy did yet again strike when Mwende was removing the frying pan from the cooker. She under-estimated the heat of the pan handle and when she could not take it any longer she dropped the pan. I could not but scream as the hot oil dripped and ate my little legs.She quickly poured cold water on my legs and rushed me to the hospital where my mother worked.
I was hurriedly attended to and sedated, i left Mwende crying explaining the whole occurrence to my very furious mother,she understood Mwende's case, but Mutindi's.....she had to face the music.
One Tuesday morning, at the age of four, though very young, i remember the day vividly. Mum and dad had left for work, and left me with our househelp. Although to date i thank her for helping bring me up, i also blame her for the many bad encounters that i had during those good old days.
After her normal house chores, she left with her boyfriend, mutuse, who came to visit her oftenly, i can't remember his look very well but he was usually in green suits, he looked like a game warden.Out of boredom i decided to climb a tree to cheer myself up,little did i know that there was a beehive. When i was almost at the top of the tree, i heard the buzz of bees.I had heard father tell a story of how they bit a woman to death in their home village and i could not wait for them to kill me too. I decided to come down holding the stem of the tree dear to avoid falling. The more they came closer to me the more i got scared, lost balance and unfortunately tripped and fell down with a thud.
My neighbor came to my rescue after hearing my loud cry and took me with her. She nursed my wounds and promised to cook me chapatis as an incentive to keep me quiet. She sat me beside the gas cooker as she prepared them. She gave me one to taste, i say, she was one of the sweetest i had come across then. I started forgeting my pain though my legs hurt very much when i moved them.
Tragedy did yet again strike when Mwende was removing the frying pan from the cooker. She under-estimated the heat of the pan handle and when she could not take it any longer she dropped the pan. I could not but scream as the hot oil dripped and ate my little legs.She quickly poured cold water on my legs and rushed me to the hospital where my mother worked.
I was hurriedly attended to and sedated, i left Mwende crying explaining the whole occurrence to my very furious mother,she understood Mwende's case, but Mutindi's.....she had to face the music.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
My Yellow Dress by Ann Debrah Wanjiku 09-0365
MY YELLOW DRESS
My favourite dress is yellow in colour. The dress and I have a one on one relationship in which we have a clear understanding as to what I expect from it. I am the master and it is the servant though I treat it with love and care for it serves me, for sure I cannot complain.
I bought it at the famous second hand market located in Adams, Toy market. Here you will get all the latest trends at a reasonable price and the name tags range from the little know Katies to the high end designers such as Marks and Spencer, H & M, Next and Dorothy Perkins. My yellow dress has no designer mark on it so I like to think of it as a fine print made from the hands of the pioneer of modern fashion trend that was started way back in England by Coco Channel.
The dress fits my body perfectly and makes me feel like a goddess. It is an off shoulder dress with a zipper on the right side. It is tight at the bustier and becomes loose as it flows down to my knees. With all the right accessories, perfect shoes, clutch bag to carry my lip gloss and phone and a sun hat, it just raises my spirits you would think am high on all the wrong things my pastor warns us about in church.
The effect this dress has on me is beyond my knowledge. I never understand how it raises my spirits and cheer me up on that day when the skies are grey, school work is taking a toll on, deadlines set are not met and disappointment after disappointment in the daily life and worst of all a friend who you wish you had to rely on but you do not have.
Till tatters do us part!
My favourite dress is yellow in colour. The dress and I have a one on one relationship in which we have a clear understanding as to what I expect from it. I am the master and it is the servant though I treat it with love and care for it serves me, for sure I cannot complain.
I bought it at the famous second hand market located in Adams, Toy market. Here you will get all the latest trends at a reasonable price and the name tags range from the little know Katies to the high end designers such as Marks and Spencer, H & M, Next and Dorothy Perkins. My yellow dress has no designer mark on it so I like to think of it as a fine print made from the hands of the pioneer of modern fashion trend that was started way back in England by Coco Channel.
The dress fits my body perfectly and makes me feel like a goddess. It is an off shoulder dress with a zipper on the right side. It is tight at the bustier and becomes loose as it flows down to my knees. With all the right accessories, perfect shoes, clutch bag to carry my lip gloss and phone and a sun hat, it just raises my spirits you would think am high on all the wrong things my pastor warns us about in church.
The effect this dress has on me is beyond my knowledge. I never understand how it raises my spirits and cheer me up on that day when the skies are grey, school work is taking a toll on, deadlines set are not met and disappointment after disappointment in the daily life and worst of all a friend who you wish you had to rely on but you do not have.
Till tatters do us part!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
SOLITUDE by Linda Anemba 08-1003
I pushed my feet into the sand and let my toes sieve through the sand. This gave me a warm feeling inside considering the difference between my wet feet and the warm sand. The sand was fine and had small crystal-like stones that were appeasing to the eye especially when they sparkled in the sun. The weather was hot and moist and had a sticky feeling.
The sky looked like a big light-blue blanket and seemed in the distance to unite with the water. The light brown sand together with the light-blue sky and the green water gave the area a beautiful splash of color.This contrasted the dark-grey tarmac and the light-grey and white buildings I was used to seeing everyday of my life.
Just staring out into the water, I felt a calmness of spirit. I seemed to have blocked out the noise of the people around me and drifted into the vastness of the water. I could feel my heartbeat steady such that if I were to be put on deathrow tomorrow, sitting at this very spot connected spiritually with nature, it would seem not important.
As the wind blew in my direction and wafted the smell of wet salt into my nose, i could feel my body temperature lower and my lungs fill with air. I closed my eyes and smiled.
The sky looked like a big light-blue blanket and seemed in the distance to unite with the water. The light brown sand together with the light-blue sky and the green water gave the area a beautiful splash of color.This contrasted the dark-grey tarmac and the light-grey and white buildings I was used to seeing everyday of my life.
Just staring out into the water, I felt a calmness of spirit. I seemed to have blocked out the noise of the people around me and drifted into the vastness of the water. I could feel my heartbeat steady such that if I were to be put on deathrow tomorrow, sitting at this very spot connected spiritually with nature, it would seem not important.
As the wind blew in my direction and wafted the smell of wet salt into my nose, i could feel my body temperature lower and my lungs fill with air. I closed my eyes and smiled.
campus hostel by Judy Mwendwa-09-0805
In my first semester in campus I stayed in campus hostels not because it was a pleasant environment but because I didn’t know anywhere else and besides, my parents wanted me within the campus gates all the time; I was still a baby according to them but I felt like a complete grown up, leave alone a young adult. I was taken to the room where I was supposed to be sleeping and to my surprise I found four beds. I thought I was the only person who was going to reside there but no, it was only a wishful thinking. The cube was five by six meters; it seemed so congested such that you could only make a turn to collide with one of the roommates. It was poorly ventilated and at night, it was disaster when everyone was asleep and it’s clear from your biology that when someone is asleep the muscles relax and the repercussions are predictable. With the small window closed to keep away hungry mosquitoes, the air could get so stuffy such that I was only left gasping for air since the others were used to the environment. I had to device a crafty way of changing rooms and so I explained to my parents how bad the environment was and of course I had to make the explanation convincing. I explained that the environment was not conducive for my studies and that it made me sickly all the time. I added that it would be a double loss if I continued surviving there because my performance would continue depreciating and they could end up paying hospital bills and my school fees at the same time. Seeing that it would be a double tragedy, my parents granted me my wish, I didn’t know I was that convincing until then!
Patricia Ng'ethe (08-1297)
MY FIRST VISIT TO A FIVE STAR HOTEL
When I was a kid I had always wanted to visit and stay at a five star hotel, unfortunately, I had never had the opportunity, let alone the means to realize this. So when I turned fifteen and my mother finally allowed me to go on a trip to Tanzania with my cousins, an incident that I consider to be a complete miracle to this day, I was ecstatic. We had an opportunity to stay at the Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge, a well known five star hotel in Tanzania.
The visit to the lodge was quite unforgettable. I remember the hotel compound had one of the most striking green carpeted lawns centred by a glorious cascading fountain. The different species of trees and the birds, with beautiful bright colours, made the garden look all the more outstanding. I stood in my tracks just to take in the magnificent scenery; I could hear the birds singing sweet melodies that made me feel so warm inside. I made my way to the reception whose pathway consisted of shiny marble and sandstone rocks, with lilies, and scented poppies on either side of the path.
At the reception area were comfortable chaise longue sets which, I assumed, were meant for guests to relax. As we approached the reception desk, my eyes met with the deep set eyes of a gentleman who sat behind the desk. He immediately rose to his feet, flashing a smile at us, and with his deep baritone voice said, “Welcome to Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge...” That’s all it took for me to fall in love with that hotel.
MY FIRST VISIT TO A FIVE STAR HOTEL
When I was a kid I had always wanted to visit and stay at a five star hotel, unfortunately, I had never had the opportunity, let alone the means to realize this. So when I turned fifteen and my mother finally allowed me to go on a trip to Tanzania with my cousins, an incident that I consider to be a complete miracle to this day, I was ecstatic. We had an opportunity to stay at the Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge, a well known five star hotel in Tanzania.
The visit to the lodge was quite unforgettable. I remember the hotel compound had one of the most striking green carpeted lawns centred by a glorious cascading fountain. The different species of trees and the birds, with beautiful bright colours, made the garden look all the more outstanding. I stood in my tracks just to take in the magnificent scenery; I could hear the birds singing sweet melodies that made me feel so warm inside. I made my way to the reception whose pathway consisted of shiny marble and sandstone rocks, with lilies, and scented poppies on either side of the path.
At the reception area were comfortable chaise longue sets which, I assumed, were meant for guests to relax. As we approached the reception desk, my eyes met with the deep set eyes of a gentleman who sat behind the desk. He immediately rose to his feet, flashing a smile at us, and with his deep baritone voice said, “Welcome to Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge...” That’s all it took for me to fall in love with that hotel.
Mary Nduku Mutunga (09-1244)
It was during the festive season and I had gone to see my aunt who lives upcountry. When I arrived, I was welcomed warmly and ushered into the living room.I was fatigued and could not wait to rest so I rushed to a sofa nearby.I was about to heap myself on the sofa when I heard an unusual sound.Surprised at the sound,I decided to look because as they say, you should look before you leap.
What I saw made me scream my lungs out. There it lay on the sofa, brown in color, slithery and about a meter long.It's scary eyes were staring right at me with its tongue out and it looked like it was preparing to make me its next meal.For a moment I seemed confused but when I came to my senses, I ran towards the door as fast as my feable legs could carry me.
My cousin Musa and the shamba boy armed themselves in no time and went to deal with it. At first it seemed like it was going to overpower them as I could hear them screaming but they managed to kill it. Musa held it with a stick and brought it out.Even though it was dead, it looked as though it would spring back to life and attack.It was put ablaze and burnt to ashes.Ofcourse I had seen snakes before but that was the day I met face to face with one.
What I saw made me scream my lungs out. There it lay on the sofa, brown in color, slithery and about a meter long.It's scary eyes were staring right at me with its tongue out and it looked like it was preparing to make me its next meal.For a moment I seemed confused but when I came to my senses, I ran towards the door as fast as my feable legs could carry me.
My cousin Musa and the shamba boy armed themselves in no time and went to deal with it. At first it seemed like it was going to overpower them as I could hear them screaming but they managed to kill it. Musa held it with a stick and brought it out.Even though it was dead, it looked as though it would spring back to life and attack.It was put ablaze and burnt to ashes.Ofcourse I had seen snakes before but that was the day I met face to face with one.
Pauline Kirubi (08-1007)
The beautiful Sunroom
It is painted cool white with shades of dark green. We always call it the sun room since it is here that the early morning sunrays are always seen and felt better than in any other room. It is not very big and therefore cannot accomodate more than six people. I have always used it as a place to meditate when at home. It is quiet, calm and has a certain aura of peace that I cannot describe. It contains one medium sized sofa and two armchairs. The chairs are maroon in colour to match with the painting of the room. It's floor has these cream tiles that give one the 'feel at home' feeling and the lighting is also dull cream. The ceiling is milk white with golden stripes to decorate it. The bulbs are in the shape of flower petals and dont I just love this room! On the walls, there are paintings of my dad, my mum, my twin sister and I. My mum did them as she loves painting saying that when alone, she will have a chance to talk to each one of us in our absence. In fact, she is the one who suggested the colours to be painted in the room. I really adore the room and I have always wished that I could carry it with me wherever I go.
The beautiful Sunroom
It is painted cool white with shades of dark green. We always call it the sun room since it is here that the early morning sunrays are always seen and felt better than in any other room. It is not very big and therefore cannot accomodate more than six people. I have always used it as a place to meditate when at home. It is quiet, calm and has a certain aura of peace that I cannot describe. It contains one medium sized sofa and two armchairs. The chairs are maroon in colour to match with the painting of the room. It's floor has these cream tiles that give one the 'feel at home' feeling and the lighting is also dull cream. The ceiling is milk white with golden stripes to decorate it. The bulbs are in the shape of flower petals and dont I just love this room! On the walls, there are paintings of my dad, my mum, my twin sister and I. My mum did them as she loves painting saying that when alone, she will have a chance to talk to each one of us in our absence. In fact, she is the one who suggested the colours to be painted in the room. I really adore the room and I have always wished that I could carry it with me wherever I go.
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