As many of you know, I am no longer "Gone to Uganda," but rather "Home Sweet Home." I departed from Entebbe on Monday May 5th and reached Minneapolis on Tuesday and was warmly greeted by my aunt and grandma. My original tickets did read that I was to depart on the 9th of May, but with my Visa expiring on May 6th, I figured the path of least hastle was to change my ticket. Some people knew of my early arrival, but with my sister still in the dark, I had to be a bit general when speaking about departure dates and saying my last goodbyes. But, my sister was surprised, so it was an absolute success. Now I am home, I'm somehow wishing I was back.
It is definitely good to be back home, but part of me is longing to be back in the place I have grown to love so much in the course of 4 short months (but at times, those 4 months felt like an eternity). If I could just walk through a door to "Uganda." If only it was that easy...
I did go out with a bang though. I spilled some hot carmel/syrup sauce on my hand the day I left Kasana, so traveling back to America, I had all my fingers wrapped up in this bandage which gave me more of a paw than a hand. I was either "back from the war," or I "got in a fight with a gorilla." Sadly, my story is much less dramatic.
As I close this chapter of my life, I have real hopes of opening it up in the not too distant future. Kasana has really left a special place in my heart and it is amazing to see the Father's heart in all that is happening at New Hope.
Thank you all once again for your comments, letters of encouragement and prayers while I was gone. Continue to keep New Hope in your prayers as they bring "The Fatherhood of God to the Fatherless."
Sunday May 4th
Right now I am feeling a little bit like I am in one of the "Back to the Future" movies. I am dating this post for May 4th, which it is here, but since I left my computer on central time, it's only 10:45 pm Saturday evening. I hope I don't run into myself...
Thoughts of my first week here keep floating back into my memory, and it literally seems like ages ago. So many things have changed, not only in our house, but around Kasana as well. The guesthouse looks as though it changes every time I walk by. Our hope, well at least my hope, is that by the time the next team comes in June, that it might be close to completed.
There are so many construction projects going on at Kasana. But with the increase in staff and how much the ministry has grown, it is essential. I am excited about the possibility of coming back some day and seeing the many changes that will have taken place.
In a strange way, I think I am more nervous about going home than I was about coming here. So much about this place has become home and maybe someday I will call it just that. Who knows...He knows.
Thoughts of my first week here keep floating back into my memory, and it literally seems like ages ago. So many things have changed, not only in our house, but around Kasana as well. The guesthouse looks as though it changes every time I walk by. Our hope, well at least my hope, is that by the time the next team comes in June, that it might be close to completed.
There are so many construction projects going on at Kasana. But with the increase in staff and how much the ministry has grown, it is essential. I am excited about the possibility of coming back some day and seeing the many changes that will have taken place.
In a strange way, I think I am more nervous about going home than I was about coming here. So much about this place has become home and maybe someday I will call it just that. Who knows...He knows.
Thursday May 1st
Lately, I have been having a real trouble finding things to write about. When I first arrived, everything was new and exciting. I look at those same things now, and they are very ordinary. It was a rather sad realization for me. I hope I'm not getting old and boring...
I went to the family group tonight and during devotions, they have been reading the book about Kasana's history and how New Hope got started. Tonights chapter was focusing on some stories of how certain kids came to New Hope and a little bit about their background. My heart just aches for these children, who are now adults, and the fact that I have met them, the heart ache is even more real. I consider myself truly blessed to have been given the parents I have.
I went to the family group tonight and during devotions, they have been reading the book about Kasana's history and how New Hope got started. Tonights chapter was focusing on some stories of how certain kids came to New Hope and a little bit about their background. My heart just aches for these children, who are now adults, and the fact that I have met them, the heart ache is even more real. I consider myself truly blessed to have been given the parents I have.
Monday April 28th
Yesterday, my roommates and I went for a walk around the local villages. No matter how many times I see how people live, it is still really hard to wrap my mind around it. I don’t even have the words to describe it.
Lately I have been losing the battle with the bug bites. Even with my mosquito net up, there are a few sneaky ones that manage to weasel through somehow. My arms and legs look like I just got kicked off of "Survivor."The kids really seem to enjoy being on holiday. The look of anxiety and fear, which was caused by the final exams, has been wiped away and replaced with the look of happiness and relief. They are all out playing and just utterly enjoying themselves.
My bottle of malaria pills is nearly finished and the reality of it is causing so many thoughts to race through my mind. Right now I feel like the kids before final exams. I am ready to be home, but not ready to leave this place. Will I ever see many of these people again? Have I accomplished all that I came to do? My answer: I hope so...
Saturday April 26th
Our house has been nicknamed "the airport" and today, the name couldn't have been any truer. At one time I counted at least 7 spontaneous visitors. The number of people would dwindle away and then the next wave would pass through. Getting unannounced visitors is something that I actually am going to miss when I return home.
On Thursday, I made what I think will be my last "Kampala Day." I don't have anymore scheduled trips into Kampala before my departure in May. The fact that I don't have anymore trips on the schedule is a bit of a relief actually. My nerves need to take a break for a little while.
Friday was the end of school's first term, which was the reason behind all the excitement around New Hope. The kids really deserve a break after I have seen how hard the kids work to prepare for their term exams. Wow! I think I need to take a lesson or two from them on how to study.
Thinking about returning home, I honestly don't know what the first thing I do will be. "Schwans" has come to mind, but I am fearing the effects of an ice cream overdose.
Once again, I would like to thank you all for the prayers, thoughts and encouraging words sent my way. I received a card from my parents' Sunday school class, and after a tough day, it was just what I needed. Thank you.
On Thursday, I made what I think will be my last "Kampala Day." I don't have anymore scheduled trips into Kampala before my departure in May. The fact that I don't have anymore trips on the schedule is a bit of a relief actually. My nerves need to take a break for a little while.
Friday was the end of school's first term, which was the reason behind all the excitement around New Hope. The kids really deserve a break after I have seen how hard the kids work to prepare for their term exams. Wow! I think I need to take a lesson or two from them on how to study.
Thinking about returning home, I honestly don't know what the first thing I do will be. "Schwans" has come to mind, but I am fearing the effects of an ice cream overdose.
Once again, I would like to thank you all for the prayers, thoughts and encouraging words sent my way. I received a card from my parents' Sunday school class, and after a tough day, it was just what I needed. Thank you.
Sunday April 20th
Driving through
The last team that I will be seeing while at
Before going to the baby house, I needed to go to the primary site (see, we live over on the side where the secondary school is located and it is about a ¾ of a mile walk to the other side) with Ann, my nurse roommate, to get some more medication. So, to make the trip shorter, we decided to try taking a bike for a spin. There is a metal seat/rack on the back of the bike, which is used to transport supplies or passengers. Ann jumped on back and I sat in the driver’s seat and attempted to ride this contraption while wearing a skirt (no easy feat mind you).
Well, we didn’t fall, which was a complete miracle, but we definitely were the comic entertainment for the evening. We gathered quite the crowd while making our journey and everyone who saw us couldn’t help but burst into laughter.
Tuesday April 15th
Sadly (and somehow thankfully) I still haven't seen any of the snakes around our house. Just last week, our house worker was pulling water out of the cistern on our veranda and when she poured the water out of the jerrican, a black mamba decided to grace her with its presence. Now every time I get water from the cistern, I do a thorough look-in to make sure I'm not pulling out any snakes or creatures of that sort.
Last week in Kampala, riots were developing, due to a taxi strike, which left many, many people without a ride back to their homes. The latest news that I have heard it that the strike is over and everything is cleared up, but as I am going to Kampala tomorrow, please keep me in your prayers for safe travel.
As I have gotten to know the people better, I have been able to place people's accents with what part of the country they are from. It is kind of similar to being able to distinguish whether an American is from the South versus being from North Dakota (I guess I talk like a Canadian, that's what I have been told)
Since my safari adventure, it has been pretty laid back around here, so I don't have anymore exciting stories to share. Maybe I'll actually see one of these "so-called snakes" and then I'll have a real story...
Last week in Kampala, riots were developing, due to a taxi strike, which left many, many people without a ride back to their homes. The latest news that I have heard it that the strike is over and everything is cleared up, but as I am going to Kampala tomorrow, please keep me in your prayers for safe travel.
As I have gotten to know the people better, I have been able to place people's accents with what part of the country they are from. It is kind of similar to being able to distinguish whether an American is from the South versus being from North Dakota (I guess I talk like a Canadian, that's what I have been told)
Since my safari adventure, it has been pretty laid back around here, so I don't have anymore exciting stories to share. Maybe I'll actually see one of these "so-called snakes" and then I'll have a real story...
Sunday April 13th
I am experiencing a bit of a creative block once again, so instead, I have decided to post as many pictures that my patience would allow for. Enjoy!
Friday April 11th
Now that is has been a week since my last entry, it is high time I update.
The poll that my brother posted showed that "safari challenges" are what people want to hear about, well I have many stories, but some I can't bear to write on my blog. Those will have to be told in person.
Safari Challenges: Take One
I left with the team Sunday morning right on schedule, which always gives a promising start to the day. After 2 hours of driving, we were welcomed by 200+ speed bumps on the road. This did not help those who were trying to sleep, but who could sleep when the sun was making its breathtaking entrance into our morning.
After an eventful encounter with the man at the entrance of the park, we made it through and were off to catch our ferry to take us across the River Nile. After spending 2 holidays on the Nile, and now being on it again, it still hasn't lost its appeal in my eyes. I would never swim in it, but its beauty, expanse, and history is one for the memory books.
We all cruised through our dinner in order to make it to our boat ride on the Nile. Like the time before, we rushed to wait. But the boat ride was worth the wait. We saw plenty of hippos, wart hogs, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and elephants that were remarkably close to the bank of the river.
That evening was filled with a few hours of relaxation and devotions with the team. I was so thoroughly impressed that a team of high schoolers can be so mature. They were an absolutely wonderful team to work with and host.
Monday morning we embarked on our early morning game drive. This time, I not only saw mounds of dirt but actual, live, identifiable lions. We saw the lioness about 20 feet from our vehicle and a few feet from her sat the big mufasa. The game ranger said that they only see lions 2-3 times a week, so the fact that we were able to see them, and at that distance was incredible.
We finally crossed the Nile for the last time 2 hours behind schedule, which in-turn created a very, very eventful reunion with the man at the park entrance. Let me just say that I left the park feeling much like a feminist. Enough said.
Thankfully we only had one flat tire in Masindi on our way to Entebbe. This pit stop was once again welcomed by all the travelers to stretch legs before making our trip down south.
With our ferry and flat tire delays, this put is very behind schedule for getting close to Kampala before dark. After some deliberation and prayer, we decided to continue on toward Kampala. The roads were relatively good, traffic wise, only to find out later that the reason for the lack of traffic was due to an intense traffic jam on the outskirts of Kampala. So, we sat, and sat, moved 10 feet and sat some more. After nearly 2 hours of waiting and witnessing a fight involving the truck driver 3 cars ahead of our vehicle, we made our way through the ghost town-like streets of Kampala on our way to Entebbe.
The wonderful people at the guesthouse welcomed the weary travelers with open arms. We all ate supper at 12:30 a.m. and then retreated off to our long awaited beds.
Tuesday morning came a bit too early for some, but it came nonetheless. I said good-bye to the the team that I had become very fond of over the past week and made it back to Kasana on Wednesday night.
It definitely feels like a treat to be "home" for now. I have been lost for many days, as many people have told me. After an eventful weekend/week, I am ready for Saturday.
The poll that my brother posted showed that "safari challenges" are what people want to hear about, well I have many stories, but some I can't bear to write on my blog. Those will have to be told in person.
Safari Challenges: Take One
I left with the team Sunday morning right on schedule, which always gives a promising start to the day. After 2 hours of driving, we were welcomed by 200+ speed bumps on the road. This did not help those who were trying to sleep, but who could sleep when the sun was making its breathtaking entrance into our morning.
After an eventful encounter with the man at the entrance of the park, we made it through and were off to catch our ferry to take us across the River Nile. After spending 2 holidays on the Nile, and now being on it again, it still hasn't lost its appeal in my eyes. I would never swim in it, but its beauty, expanse, and history is one for the memory books.
We all cruised through our dinner in order to make it to our boat ride on the Nile. Like the time before, we rushed to wait. But the boat ride was worth the wait. We saw plenty of hippos, wart hogs, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and elephants that were remarkably close to the bank of the river.
That evening was filled with a few hours of relaxation and devotions with the team. I was so thoroughly impressed that a team of high schoolers can be so mature. They were an absolutely wonderful team to work with and host.
Monday morning we embarked on our early morning game drive. This time, I not only saw mounds of dirt but actual, live, identifiable lions. We saw the lioness about 20 feet from our vehicle and a few feet from her sat the big mufasa. The game ranger said that they only see lions 2-3 times a week, so the fact that we were able to see them, and at that distance was incredible.
We finally crossed the Nile for the last time 2 hours behind schedule, which in-turn created a very, very eventful reunion with the man at the park entrance. Let me just say that I left the park feeling much like a feminist. Enough said.
Thankfully we only had one flat tire in Masindi on our way to Entebbe. This pit stop was once again welcomed by all the travelers to stretch legs before making our trip down south.
With our ferry and flat tire delays, this put is very behind schedule for getting close to Kampala before dark. After some deliberation and prayer, we decided to continue on toward Kampala. The roads were relatively good, traffic wise, only to find out later that the reason for the lack of traffic was due to an intense traffic jam on the outskirts of Kampala. So, we sat, and sat, moved 10 feet and sat some more. After nearly 2 hours of waiting and witnessing a fight involving the truck driver 3 cars ahead of our vehicle, we made our way through the ghost town-like streets of Kampala on our way to Entebbe.
The wonderful people at the guesthouse welcomed the weary travelers with open arms. We all ate supper at 12:30 a.m. and then retreated off to our long awaited beds.
Tuesday morning came a bit too early for some, but it came nonetheless. I said good-bye to the the team that I had become very fond of over the past week and made it back to Kasana on Wednesday night.
It definitely feels like a treat to be "home" for now. I have been lost for many days, as many people have told me. After an eventful weekend/week, I am ready for Saturday.
Friday April 4th
The rainy season has been taking a break as of late and the dry season is being its substitute. I just hope that this warm and not rainy weather continues for the safari on Sunday and Monday, but a little rain to cut the heat sounds really good right about now.
I took the team to the
Today as I was walking back to the office, in the middle of the path was a bright green chameleon. I have seen them while at Murchison Falls, but never at Kasana. Its bright green body actually shocked me to take a step back and freeze for an instant. I stared at this one-foot long, green creature and was so fascinated at the way that it made its way across the footpath. It would take one step, somehow rock back and forth after the step, and then finally take another step. It's as if it couldn't decide if it really wanted to move forward make its way across. Every step forward seemed to take much concentration and motivation.
Sunday, I will be hosting my second safari, but it will be the first time hosting one alone. With so much responsibility, the nerves are definitely there, but so is the excitement.
As I am nodding off while typing this, I don't think it is too smart to write something that goes on the internet while not being totally with it.
Until later....
Tuesday April 1st
With another malaria pill taken, I am realizing that my days here are quickly diminishing. On Sunday I picked up a team at the airport. They were all wondering how long I have been in Uganda, and stating that I have been here since the middle of January really made it hard for me to grasp how long I have been away from home.
The team that I picked up has come all the way from Russia. Even though they come from way up north, they are in the exact same time zone as us. This is the first team to come from the country of Russia, so we all were very excited to receive them to New Hope. I have finally found out what my favorite thing about picking up teams: How big their eyes get as we travel to Kasana. It is so much to take in and wrap your mind around. The traffic, the roads, the massive amount of people, the beautiful landscape, everything. I remember it actually gave me a headache just trying to make sense of it all.
While back in Entebbe on Monday morning, I was waiting for our bus to come and pick up the team from the hotel where we had stayed. As we were waiting, a staff member of the hotel and I were talking and the staff member was wondering where New Hope was. I mentioned that it was by Luweero. The response I got was, "Are the skulls still there?" I was so taken aback by that question. The devastation that happened right here is still so real in the memories of many people. I am so thankful to be serving at a place that is bringing hope to a once war-stricken area.
Thursday March 27th
I made it back safe and sound from Jinja Monday evening. It was a very relaxing weekend, but I really don't like the feeling of needing a vacation to recover from the vacation.
We arrived in Jinja Friday afternoon after taking public transportation from Kampala. The hour and a half ride to Jinja from Kampala was filled with seeing many new sights, smelling new smells, and having a new head on my shoulder. The kid I was sitting next to kept falling asleep on me, and then abruptly waking himself up, partially due to the many bumps we encountered.
Saturday morning, we jumped aboard bodas and made the 9 km trip into Jinja town. I am getting quite acquainted to riding sidesaddle, even though I thought it wasn't possible. While in Jinja, we stopped at a market to do some fun shopping. I found a pair of sandals that I really liked, but evidently, they didn't have my size. The lady at that shoe stand really wanted me to buy them, even though they clearly were too small. If my foot is hanging out the back of the sandal, I don't think the sandals will "adjust themselves" to accommodate the inch that the sandal was lacking.
By the end of our time at the market, nearly every shoe dealer knew what size my feet are and sadly I walked out of there empty handed (or you could say footed).
It rained all day Sunday, which was a little disappointing in the fact that I was anticipating swimming that day, but alas. I had a very restful Sunday because of it.
I got back from Jinja on Monday evening and Tuesday morning I was off again to Kampala to do foreign staff shopping. So by the time Wednesday rolled around, I was ready for another weekend.
Wednesday night, I was invited to a birthday party for friend who works at the guesthouse in Kasana. I really felt the need to get to bed early, but wanted to drop off a card for her before heading home for the evening. An hour and a half later, I went home feeling so happy that I stayed longer than I expected. She looked as if she was going to cry when I informed her of my early exit from the party, so I stayed to witness her first birthday party ever. At the age of 28, she blew out birthday candles for the first time; her face glowing with sheer happiness.
We arrived in Jinja Friday afternoon after taking public transportation from Kampala. The hour and a half ride to Jinja from Kampala was filled with seeing many new sights, smelling new smells, and having a new head on my shoulder. The kid I was sitting next to kept falling asleep on me, and then abruptly waking himself up, partially due to the many bumps we encountered.
Saturday morning, we jumped aboard bodas and made the 9 km trip into Jinja town. I am getting quite acquainted to riding sidesaddle, even though I thought it wasn't possible. While in Jinja, we stopped at a market to do some fun shopping. I found a pair of sandals that I really liked, but evidently, they didn't have my size. The lady at that shoe stand really wanted me to buy them, even though they clearly were too small. If my foot is hanging out the back of the sandal, I don't think the sandals will "adjust themselves" to accommodate the inch that the sandal was lacking.
By the end of our time at the market, nearly every shoe dealer knew what size my feet are and sadly I walked out of there empty handed (or you could say footed).
It rained all day Sunday, which was a little disappointing in the fact that I was anticipating swimming that day, but alas. I had a very restful Sunday because of it.
I got back from Jinja on Monday evening and Tuesday morning I was off again to Kampala to do foreign staff shopping. So by the time Wednesday rolled around, I was ready for another weekend.
Wednesday night, I was invited to a birthday party for friend who works at the guesthouse in Kasana. I really felt the need to get to bed early, but wanted to drop off a card for her before heading home for the evening. An hour and a half later, I went home feeling so happy that I stayed longer than I expected. She looked as if she was going to cry when I informed her of my early exit from the party, so I stayed to witness her first birthday party ever. At the age of 28, she blew out birthday candles for the first time; her face glowing with sheer happiness.
Thursday March 20th
Rainy season has officially, officially started. For the past 3 days, it has been sunshine one minute and absolute downpour the next. It makes for some very squishy walking.
One night this week (I am not sure what day it was, my days are all getting smushed together somehow) I was awakened by this cracking noise and then an explosion coming from (thankfully) outside my room. My initial thought was "Ah! (I sat up in bed and actually screamed)The gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen!!" First of all, I cannot see the kitchen from my room, so if this was true, the explosion must have knocked out a wall and blown clear into the hallway. I ripped open my mosquito net and raced out of my room only to find that a candle had exploded in its glass votive container. The counter in our bathroom is made plainly of wood, which makes for kind of a scary experience, but no real harm was done. The details for the candle explosion are as follows:
-Ann first saw a strange light coming from the bathroom, so she decided to investigate.
-She thought maybe I was using the bathroom, but the door was open, so clearly that didn't make sense, unless I had become very immodest in the last few days.
-Ann saw that the votive container had exploded, creating a little campfire on our bathroom counter.
-She poured water to extinguish the fire, only to anger the flames, causing an explosion of some sort (Any chemists, or pyromaniacs who would like to explain why the candle did what it did, are welcome to explain)
-The explosion, then aroused me from my much needed beauty sleep.
Why do all these exciting things have to happen in the bathroom...remember the bat?
Tomorrow morning, we make our way to Jinja. We haven't made any concrete plans while in Jinja, so I don't have any details to share with you. All I know it that we will be buying lots and lots of coffee. Oh, caffeine, you make the world go round.
One night this week (I am not sure what day it was, my days are all getting smushed together somehow) I was awakened by this cracking noise and then an explosion coming from (thankfully) outside my room. My initial thought was "Ah! (I sat up in bed and actually screamed)The gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen!!" First of all, I cannot see the kitchen from my room, so if this was true, the explosion must have knocked out a wall and blown clear into the hallway. I ripped open my mosquito net and raced out of my room only to find that a candle had exploded in its glass votive container. The counter in our bathroom is made plainly of wood, which makes for kind of a scary experience, but no real harm was done. The details for the candle explosion are as follows:
-Ann first saw a strange light coming from the bathroom, so she decided to investigate.
-She thought maybe I was using the bathroom, but the door was open, so clearly that didn't make sense, unless I had become very immodest in the last few days.
-Ann saw that the votive container had exploded, creating a little campfire on our bathroom counter.
-She poured water to extinguish the fire, only to anger the flames, causing an explosion of some sort (Any chemists, or pyromaniacs who would like to explain why the candle did what it did, are welcome to explain)
-The explosion, then aroused me from my much needed beauty sleep.
Why do all these exciting things have to happen in the bathroom...remember the bat?
Tomorrow morning, we make our way to Jinja. We haven't made any concrete plans while in Jinja, so I don't have any details to share with you. All I know it that we will be buying lots and lots of coffee. Oh, caffeine, you make the world go round.
Sunday March 16th
Tonight the internet has been unbearably slow but I need to constantly remind myself that that fact that we have internet here when we don’t have so many of the other modern conveniences is a tremendous blessing. I tried posting the last few nights, but alas.
With malaria pills quickly diminishing, and knowing that my departure in May is coming with what I feel is increasing speed, I have been trying to take every experience I can as I may not have another chance.
On Thursday, I got the opportunity to receive an official tour of the New Hope Vocational Institute, which is located about 3 km from Kasana. I was able to see how cloth was designed and woven on a loom. After taking a textile class last semester, my interest in material has definitely increased and I was absolutely fascinated by the whole process.
Last night I went to the family group for fun night. It was kind a spur of the moment decision to go and to stay as late as I did. I was planning on leaving about 10 minutes before sundown so that I could make it back home at a safe time, but I was having so much fun that I ended up staying much after the sun had disappeared in the sky. Usually for fun night, the kids play games but they wanted to just keep singing for their fun night. They were having so much fun laughing and singing at the top of their lungs. There was this one little clown who would belt out the opening words to a song whenever there was a moment of silence. We all would crack up at her which in-turn fueled her fire to start entertaining us with a little special dancing. It is times like this that I realize that these children are no different that any other child. Yes, many of these kids have gone through more and seen more than the average person, but they still know how to make people laugh, still have an imagination, still are just kids.
For Easter, I will be going away to Jinja, which is at the source of the River Nile. With teams and visitors coming back to back for the next month, the realization of a little vacation to get our minds in order is becoming a reality. I am really looking forward to seeing another part of
The next team that will be arriving to Kasana will be from
Tuesday March 11th
Thankfully it didn't take a little flying creature to get me over my writer's block. This time it only took an 8 legged beast and a trip of faith to Kampala.
Last night, I was getting all situated so that I could shut off my light to go to bed, and as I was rearranging my pillows and adjusting, I noticed a huge spider on my mosquito net. Realistically, they should rename the mosquito net to be called "creepy-crawly-flying creature net." This trusty net has kept out mosquitoes, some spiders (especially this big one) and even bats. The spider was luckily on the outside of the net. I mean, there are big spiders in North Dakota, but I don't know what type of spider this was and what it could "do." Also my viewing of "Arachnophobia" a few too many times didn't help the matter any. The sighting of this spider just clarified that the bites that I have been getting while I sleep are not only from ants, but from spiders. Mystery spots solved.
As soon as 6:30 am rolled around, I was off once again to Kampala. The road to Kampala is getting so much better, it's actually quite remarkable. When I first arrived on January 14th, I got so motion sick from swerving in and out and in and out and in and out of all the potholes. And just a few weeks ago, I counted a total of 134 speedbumps placed within the distance of about 2 miles. The construction crews put up speedbumps to hinder drivers from racing through the freshly laid asphalt and rock. Today when I went, the road was so smooth for so long that I felt like I wasn't in Africa anymore.
So, we were about an hour into the 2 1/2 hour drive and my driver takes an unexpected turn off the usual road. I thought, 'Maybe he has to run a quick errand,' or 'maybe he has to talk to someone quickly.' After we had driven for quite a while down this washed out gravel road that I would never imagine taking my car through, I start to get a little skeptical because there was no errand, no friend, or no words from te driver. I have ridden with this driver quite a few time already, but I don't know him that well. How much do I really trust him? We drive and drive on this unfamiliar gravel road for a good half hour. The whole time I am just trying to have faith that I will get to Kampala eventually (and safely.)
Finally, I saw the relieving sight of a paved road. I started to see familiar landmarks and I knew that I could breathe again. I later found out that we had taken a detour because of traffic and construction. Being in a totally different country and having to put my trust in someone to take me to a city where I stick out like a very sore thumb is at times really scary. But that is what faith is for.
I got the shopping done rather quickly and was back to Kasana by around 3 pm. Every hour I get home before sunset I count as a blessing. Oh Kampala, such a necessary city but a stressful one at that.
Last night, I was getting all situated so that I could shut off my light to go to bed, and as I was rearranging my pillows and adjusting, I noticed a huge spider on my mosquito net. Realistically, they should rename the mosquito net to be called "creepy-crawly-flying creature net." This trusty net has kept out mosquitoes, some spiders (especially this big one) and even bats. The spider was luckily on the outside of the net. I mean, there are big spiders in North Dakota, but I don't know what type of spider this was and what it could "do." Also my viewing of "Arachnophobia" a few too many times didn't help the matter any. The sighting of this spider just clarified that the bites that I have been getting while I sleep are not only from ants, but from spiders. Mystery spots solved.
As soon as 6:30 am rolled around, I was off once again to Kampala. The road to Kampala is getting so much better, it's actually quite remarkable. When I first arrived on January 14th, I got so motion sick from swerving in and out and in and out and in and out of all the potholes. And just a few weeks ago, I counted a total of 134 speedbumps placed within the distance of about 2 miles. The construction crews put up speedbumps to hinder drivers from racing through the freshly laid asphalt and rock. Today when I went, the road was so smooth for so long that I felt like I wasn't in Africa anymore.
So, we were about an hour into the 2 1/2 hour drive and my driver takes an unexpected turn off the usual road. I thought, 'Maybe he has to run a quick errand,' or 'maybe he has to talk to someone quickly.' After we had driven for quite a while down this washed out gravel road that I would never imagine taking my car through, I start to get a little skeptical because there was no errand, no friend, or no words from te driver. I have ridden with this driver quite a few time already, but I don't know him that well. How much do I really trust him? We drive and drive on this unfamiliar gravel road for a good half hour. The whole time I am just trying to have faith that I will get to Kampala eventually (and safely.)
Finally, I saw the relieving sight of a paved road. I started to see familiar landmarks and I knew that I could breathe again. I later found out that we had taken a detour because of traffic and construction. Being in a totally different country and having to put my trust in someone to take me to a city where I stick out like a very sore thumb is at times really scary. But that is what faith is for.
I got the shopping done rather quickly and was back to Kasana by around 3 pm. Every hour I get home before sunset I count as a blessing. Oh Kampala, such a necessary city but a stressful one at that.
Saturday March 8th
Well, no baby this weekend. It has been rather quiet around the house today, which is quite rare, but appreciated after a busy week.
Now that our house has electricity, a refrigerator, AND running water (with a bit of pressure might I add) I definitely have nothing to complain about. When I arrived here, the talk of a refrigerator and running water was just a rumor that might come to be after I left for the states. But, I am here and we have both, and they are glorious!
I really fear to state that I am having a writer's block because last time, it took a bat attack to cure it. But I truly am experiencing another.
Until next time...
Now that our house has electricity, a refrigerator, AND running water (with a bit of pressure might I add) I definitely have nothing to complain about. When I arrived here, the talk of a refrigerator and running water was just a rumor that might come to be after I left for the states. But, I am here and we have both, and they are glorious!
I really fear to state that I am having a writer's block because last time, it took a bat attack to cure it. But I truly am experiencing another.
Until next time...
Wednesday March 5th
It is not only the weekends that fly by, but now the weekdays are going even faster. On Monday I went to Kampala yet again to do some research on the prices for office cleaning supplies and to accompany a volunteer staff member to the dentist. I am getting quite the orientation to the medical side of Kampala. I now know of 2 places to go to a doctor, 2 places where I could get an ultrasound, and now I could even go to the dentist if need be.
The research (shopping) and dentist appointment went rather quickly, so after a stop at a Lebanese restaurant for lunch and for the 4th time ice cream was found, (it was such a good day) we decided to head home. Traffic wasn't even too bad coming out of town, so we thankfully made it home before dark.
Yesterday morning, we received news that a 8-foot cobra had been killed near the head nurse's chicken house. Now my fear of going out to the garbage pit at night is definitely justified since there is a 10 footer living in our own backyard.
Today it is official: Running water at last. For the longest time (well since January 14th) the water situation has been on, off, on, off...and since last Thursday, we have been without running water. When all the pipes were finally connected with all systems go, the tank was so full that it ran over for at least 3 hours. It sounded like a heavy rain shower right outside my bedroom window. We were definitely blessed with the newly redone water system and our cup was overflowing.
While at home this evening, I looked out the window and saw little pink and blue things running around and I just could not figure out what was going on. I looked closer and realized that the little pink and blue things were the toddlers from the baby house. They were all out for a walk before supper and were just having a grand old time. It was quite the sight.
Speaking of babies, I handed in my "mommy" badge Sunday night. I still cannot believe how good Hope was. Even though she was not in her usual crib or surroundings, she slept straight through the night. She is every parents' dream baby.
I counted my weekly anti-malaria pills this morning and was haunted by the indisputable fact that since there is a small number of pills remaining, I only have that many weeks left in Uganda. Time...Where have you gone?
Sunday March 2nd
My days here are suffering from a little bit of an identity crisis. Right now, it is 6:30 am and my computer is still on Central time, so back home it is 9:30 pm Saturday night. It is bizarre how I am starting one day here and my family is ending their day. There are not only miles separating us but sometimes even a day.
5 month old Hope is lying right next to me and being very squirmy on this Sunday morning. She woke up a little while ago and has been tearing around ever since. She is not crawling around but she's just waving her arms and legs like she has something to say. Hope is such a long baby, but I have heard that her lankiness is characteristic to the tribe she is from. I picked her up yesterday morning and have the privilege of keeping her until sometime this evening. She is constantly smiling and enjoying being a wiggly worm.
It amazes me how these children who have a past that is so hard and have possibly lost everything can still smile, still laugh, still love despite all that they have been through.
5 month old Hope is lying right next to me and being very squirmy on this Sunday morning. She woke up a little while ago and has been tearing around ever since. She is not crawling around but she's just waving her arms and legs like she has something to say. Hope is such a long baby, but I have heard that her lankiness is characteristic to the tribe she is from. I picked her up yesterday morning and have the privilege of keeping her until sometime this evening. She is constantly smiling and enjoying being a wiggly worm.
It amazes me how these children who have a past that is so hard and have possibly lost everything can still smile, still laugh, still love despite all that they have been through.
Thursday February 28th
I think I am slowly losing my ability to stay up past the hour of 11 pm and function properly the next day. When I think about the fact that last semester it was a very rare occasion if I got to bed before one in the morning, I wonder how I did it. It is now ten minutes to eleven and I am really fighting sleep. Once the sun goes down, it is not long until you call it a day.
With Friday right around the corner, and even more strangely the month of March coming on Saturday, I truly wonder, 'Where has time gone?' The reality that I will be going home in a little more than 2 months is rather startling, given the fact that I have no clue where the first 2 months went.
Training with the office cleaning staff has been going so much better, I am just amazed. Today, the translator did not show up, so the training was difficult at times because my Lugandan is practically non-existent, but it was one of the best sessions yet. I did know the word for "plastic bag" and people were very impressed. I was pretty proud of myself.
This evening, I went to the family group that I have been associated with and ended up leading the family devotions. I was the only adult there and I was just a little bit intimidated. I don't know why I was, because I have dealt with that age of children before. When it was time for me to start, the only thing I could say was "well, the pressure is on." Sometimes I find myself being so muzungu, I would like to have the ability to rewind and start again. After I gave up trying to explain what I meant by "the pressure is on," I started devotions.
After devotions, the children and I ate posho (I don't know the exact spelling of this one, but posho is maize flour that is prepared in a way so that it resembles mashed potatoes, but oh my it doesn't taste like mashed potatoes. It tastes like nothing) and beans. I tried my best to be Ugandan so I ate with my hands and surprisingly, I have improved since my traditional meal. But I have to say that the fork is one of greatest inventions of all time.
My eyes are still open and it is now almost eleven thirty, I think my ability to stay up is there but slowly diminishing. Since it took me 40 minutes to write this measly little blog, my brain function at late hours is still being evaluated.
With Friday right around the corner, and even more strangely the month of March coming on Saturday, I truly wonder, 'Where has time gone?' The reality that I will be going home in a little more than 2 months is rather startling, given the fact that I have no clue where the first 2 months went.
Training with the office cleaning staff has been going so much better, I am just amazed. Today, the translator did not show up, so the training was difficult at times because my Lugandan is practically non-existent, but it was one of the best sessions yet. I did know the word for "plastic bag" and people were very impressed. I was pretty proud of myself.
This evening, I went to the family group that I have been associated with and ended up leading the family devotions. I was the only adult there and I was just a little bit intimidated. I don't know why I was, because I have dealt with that age of children before. When it was time for me to start, the only thing I could say was "well, the pressure is on." Sometimes I find myself being so muzungu, I would like to have the ability to rewind and start again. After I gave up trying to explain what I meant by "the pressure is on," I started devotions.
After devotions, the children and I ate posho (I don't know the exact spelling of this one, but posho is maize flour that is prepared in a way so that it resembles mashed potatoes, but oh my it doesn't taste like mashed potatoes. It tastes like nothing) and beans. I tried my best to be Ugandan so I ate with my hands and surprisingly, I have improved since my traditional meal. But I have to say that the fork is one of greatest inventions of all time.
My eyes are still open and it is now almost eleven thirty, I think my ability to stay up is there but slowly diminishing. Since it took me 40 minutes to write this measly little blog, my brain function at late hours is still being evaluated.
Monday February 25th
I knew that this weekend was too good to be true. On Sunday, I was able to go to
After all the shopping was completed, Ann and I went The American Club. Oh my, it was amazing. We got to go swimming and I don’t how they do it, but the sun there actually felt good, rather that it’s usual sweltering hotness. I tried getting my radiantly white legs a little tan, but alas. Since I wear skirts all the time, I shouldn’t be so vain about how blinding my legs really are. After a hot shower in the pool changing room, I thought the day could not get any better. Well, let me tell you, it did. I was going to be very disappointed if this club that calls itself The “American” Club did not have ice cream, but good old
This morning came and snapped me back from the la la land of sun bathing, hot showers and cold ice cream. A lot of emails needed replies and questions needed to be answered. I was assigned to develop an office cleaning schedule and train the staff at the administration building. I think I set my expectations a little too high. First of all, the training was to start right after the lunch break. Well, the training didn’t start until 3:00 and this only gave me 45 minutes to go through the cleaning schedule, explain the expectations, and answer any questions they had because I had to fill in as a small group leader at the secondary school bible study. The language barrier has proven to be a definite obstacle. I had to speak to the ladies through a translator, so everything takes twice as long. So, tomorrow I will hopefully spend the first 3 hours of work thoroughly going through the cleaning schedule again and doing more demonstrations of what is expected. I came home very frustrated and distraught, but
Tonight while I was helping prepare supper, Ann came running into the house and said that the neighbor’s animals were out in the field right by our house. The reason for her excitement was that one of the animals was a sheep (it kind of looks like a sheep/goat cross, but I think one of the reasons they look so different is because the tails of these “sheep” haven’t been docked) and it had just given birth to twin lambs that morning. So the two lambs and the mom were just prancing (well the lambs were doing more wobbling than prancing) around right by our house and Ann wanted a picture. So I went with her and we ran after this poor little goat-looking sheep and its two babies, while the long-horned cattle and donkeys looked on. Ann was the real “cowgirl” and picked up one of the lambs and got her picture. Ann then gave the lamb to me and I got my picture with the brand new lamb.
Before I left for
Friday February 22nd
What a week! I am so thankful that tomorrow is Saturday.
With the team gone, I thought that this week would be a little more quiet, but was I wrong.
I was planning on going to Kampala on Thursday to do shopping for some of the staff at New Hope. I had to go in on Wednesday instead because of a slight medical emergency. The emergency did not involve me, but since I was going in to do shopping, the person came in with me to get checked out. Let me tell you, I have a new attitude of gratitude for the medical care in America. The technology, sanitation procedures, and just utter convenience of the health care in the U.S. is amazing compared to what was in Kampala. After stopping at 1 grocery story, and spending 7 hours in 3 clinics, I was finally able to head back to Kasana. Not all of the shopping got done, but the medical emergency turned out to be okay in the end, and personally, that is all that mattered.
We left Kampala at around 7:00 pm and I hope I never have to leave Kampala that late ever again. The sun sets at around 7:30 pm, so leaving at this time only gave us a mere 30 minutes of good sunlight to make our way through the chaos. I am so surprised that I have fingernails left, because I was so nervous while the driver was playing chicken with everyone on the road. The roads are so bad that everyone is constantly swerving in and out to avoid the potholes and at night, it is absolute madness. Praise God that we made it back safely, because multiple times I wasn't too sure how the game of chicken would end up. I was wondering today why my muscles are strangely sore, but I figured it out...my body was tensed up for the entire ride home from Kampala. Traveling definitely is the most dangerous aspect of my job here...unless you upset a hippo...
Thursday and today were filled with much to be done for the upcoming teams and visitors. The emails piled up, due to the interruption of the internet system here.
Now, I am going to try to answer some of the questions that people have posted:
There was a question about the Ugandans' attitude toward me.
-Ugandans are very friendly and very sensitive. If you don't greet them in the morning, they might think that you are mad at them. So, greeting is a must. I am a little too American though. If I have a question for someone, I want to get in and out and not bother them, but I really should greet them all properly before I ask anything. One Ugandan said to me that I get things done very quickly. I don't think of myself as Flash, but everything is done at a much slower pace compared to in America. But mostly, they just think that I am a crazy muzungu.
There was a question about the baby house:
-The baby house currently takes care of 10 babies and there are two ladies who work there full time. They take care of the babies and the manager (who is our neighbor) likes for the full time ladies to get the weekends off. That is why I was able to have "a baby for a day." They usually like people to pick a baby up on Saturday afternoon and bring the baby back on Sunday around 6 pm. This gives the full time staff a time to relax and regain sanity.
Well, all my muffins are finished so I am going to call it a day. Have a Great weekend everyone and if you remember, say an extra prayer for me on Sunday as I am going to Kampala yet again.
With the team gone, I thought that this week would be a little more quiet, but was I wrong.
I was planning on going to Kampala on Thursday to do shopping for some of the staff at New Hope. I had to go in on Wednesday instead because of a slight medical emergency. The emergency did not involve me, but since I was going in to do shopping, the person came in with me to get checked out. Let me tell you, I have a new attitude of gratitude for the medical care in America. The technology, sanitation procedures, and just utter convenience of the health care in the U.S. is amazing compared to what was in Kampala. After stopping at 1 grocery story, and spending 7 hours in 3 clinics, I was finally able to head back to Kasana. Not all of the shopping got done, but the medical emergency turned out to be okay in the end, and personally, that is all that mattered.
We left Kampala at around 7:00 pm and I hope I never have to leave Kampala that late ever again. The sun sets at around 7:30 pm, so leaving at this time only gave us a mere 30 minutes of good sunlight to make our way through the chaos. I am so surprised that I have fingernails left, because I was so nervous while the driver was playing chicken with everyone on the road. The roads are so bad that everyone is constantly swerving in and out to avoid the potholes and at night, it is absolute madness. Praise God that we made it back safely, because multiple times I wasn't too sure how the game of chicken would end up. I was wondering today why my muscles are strangely sore, but I figured it out...my body was tensed up for the entire ride home from Kampala. Traveling definitely is the most dangerous aspect of my job here...unless you upset a hippo...
Thursday and today were filled with much to be done for the upcoming teams and visitors. The emails piled up, due to the interruption of the internet system here.
Now, I am going to try to answer some of the questions that people have posted:
There was a question about the Ugandans' attitude toward me.
-Ugandans are very friendly and very sensitive. If you don't greet them in the morning, they might think that you are mad at them. So, greeting is a must. I am a little too American though. If I have a question for someone, I want to get in and out and not bother them, but I really should greet them all properly before I ask anything. One Ugandan said to me that I get things done very quickly. I don't think of myself as Flash, but everything is done at a much slower pace compared to in America. But mostly, they just think that I am a crazy muzungu.
There was a question about the baby house:
-The baby house currently takes care of 10 babies and there are two ladies who work there full time. They take care of the babies and the manager (who is our neighbor) likes for the full time ladies to get the weekends off. That is why I was able to have "a baby for a day." They usually like people to pick a baby up on Saturday afternoon and bring the baby back on Sunday around 6 pm. This gives the full time staff a time to relax and regain sanity.
Well, all my muffins are finished so I am going to call it a day. Have a Great weekend everyone and if you remember, say an extra prayer for me on Sunday as I am going to Kampala yet again.
Tuesday February 19th
I wrote this blog two nights ago and just when I tried to post it, the network shut down. I ask God for patience, and He gives me internet. So, here I am, back by popular demand.
Well, I have survived hosting my first ever safari. It was absolutely amazing. With only a few mishaps, everyone made it back safe, very tired, but very capable to change a flat tire when needed...I will explain.
We all left Kasana at 5 am in order to catch the ferry across the Nile at 12 noon. If we didn't get on that ferry, we would have missed our boat ride down the Nile. 4 hours into our trip everything had gone so smoothly, I was amazed. We were about an hour away from the River Nile when we got a flat tire. So, we were changing a flat tire in the middle of the African bush. The tire change went remarkably quick and we made it on the 11 am ferry, which put us ahead of schedule, so everything worked out well.
Everyone got checked into the hotel and everything looked good. We had lunch and were getting ready for our 2 pm boat ride down the Nile. Well, at 1:55 our driver still wasn't there to take us down to the boat. The Nile really wasn't that far from our hotel (probably about 400 yards) but we were not advised to just walk down there because the hippos and elephants are very free-roaming. I wasn't really concerned about the elephants, but the hippos, well that's another story. Every year, more people are killed by hippos in Africa than by any other animal (that was the last statistic I have heard). Thankfully, our driver showed up and raced us down to the boat dock just in time to wait. I don't know why the hotel staff told us that we needed to be on time for everything when everyone is on "Ugandan" time. So, once again we waited. Our wait was entertained by elephants that were remarkably close to us and a little scare from a hippo.
The boat ride down the Nile was absolutely amazing. We saw so many animals, including wart hogs, crocodiles, and plenty of hippos. How can a creature that looks like you could cuddle it be a killing machine? The boat ride went as far as Murchison Falls and came back. I was a little disappointed that we weren't able go get closer to the falls, but it was still impressive.
Now I can say that I have spent Valentine's Day on the Nile. Sometimes, I just had to stop and think, 'I am in Africa and I am on the River Nile.' I was in a place that I have only read about and have always wanted to be, but the fact that I was there and I am in Africa still seems a little surreal. I guess that it is the "Small town girl" in me.
The next morning came quietly and very early. Somehow I knew that it was going to be anything but quiet. The game drive was so much fun. We saw African buffalo, giraffes, baboons, elephants, Jackson's hartebeests, orbis, the Ugandan kob, (which is the official animal of Uganda...i think that's what our guide told us), the Defassa waterbuck, a few other types of monkeys, and lions (everyone said they saw them, but I could not see them, they were so far away and must have been looking in the wrong spot, so I'll just say that the mounds of dirt were lions).
Sadly, the game drive ended and we had to get on the ferry to cross the Nile, so that we would start to make our way home. While we were waiting for the ferry to come, we were just checking out the hippos that were in the water just below us. Katie (the other host) and I decided to get a better picture of the hippo, so we walked closer. I'll just say that the hippo made it known that he really didn't want us that close and kind of gave us a run for our money. He got out of the water and that was all that I saw because I turned and ran, as did Katie. The hippo didn't make it completely out of the water, but was just wanting to show us who was boss. I have learned my lesson about how those "cuddly looking animals" really aren't so cuddly.
On our way out of the park, we drove to the top of Murchison Falls. What a sight to behold! To see that much water go through something so narrow is incredible. I can try to describe it but my explanation would just not do justice.
After exiting the park, we had to stop in a town called Masindi to change tire number 2. This stop was welcomed, as the gas station has restrooms (western style even) and snacks (including ice cream, so Betsy you can have some). An hour later, we were back on the road to drive the last 4 hours back to Kasana.
40 minutes out of Masindi, tire number 3 needed to be changed. This tire was a blow out and thankfully our driver had repaired the spare tire back at a gas station near our hotel. 45 minutes later, we were back on the road and by the grace of God made it back to Kasana without anymore flat tires.
Hosting my first safari was definitely a learning experience. This was the first safari that Katie or I had ever been on, but we made it and the team really had a good time.
The team left Saturday morning at 4:30 and it really was sad to see them go. It is crazy how one can get so attached to 16 complete strangers in the course of two short weeks.
Thank you all for your question in your comments. I will be posting the answers to them in my next blog.
All in all, my first safari was an experience that was truly unforgettable. For Christmas, I didn't get a hippo like I wanted, but I did get one for Valentine's Day.
Tuesday February 12th
Well, no bat attacks this week so far. It has been pretty low key in animal kingdom.
It is so hard to think that one month ago today, I said good bye to my family and left for this foreign land. This foreign land has become so much "my home" now. My mom is probably not too happy to hear me say that. Who knows, maybe some day I will call this my home for longer than 4 months. I never know where God is going to take me.
On Thursday, Katie (a staff member who has been here for the past 7 months) and I will be hosting the team on Safari. I am so excited to have this amazing opportunity. I just can't believe that I am going to be hosting people from all over the U.S. on Safari in Africa.
We got our refrigerator today and wow, it is beautiful. It is not hooked up to the gas yet, but just the thought of ice cubes makes me smile. If only the Schwan's man could deliver to Uganda, then life would be complete.
With this week not having any monumental animal encounters, I just don't know what to write about. If there is anything that anyone would like me to write about, feel free to comment about it.
It is so hard to think that one month ago today, I said good bye to my family and left for this foreign land. This foreign land has become so much "my home" now. My mom is probably not too happy to hear me say that. Who knows, maybe some day I will call this my home for longer than 4 months. I never know where God is going to take me.
On Thursday, Katie (a staff member who has been here for the past 7 months) and I will be hosting the team on Safari. I am so excited to have this amazing opportunity. I just can't believe that I am going to be hosting people from all over the U.S. on Safari in Africa.
We got our refrigerator today and wow, it is beautiful. It is not hooked up to the gas yet, but just the thought of ice cubes makes me smile. If only the Schwan's man could deliver to Uganda, then life would be complete.
With this week not having any monumental animal encounters, I just don't know what to write about. If there is anything that anyone would like me to write about, feel free to comment about it.
Sunday February 10th
It has been a while since my last entry partly because I have been busy and also my internet connection has been a little sketchy (This is Africa after all)
Currently, one of the team members is sitting right next to me and giggling about everything I am saying. Britton, who is 5, is having a laugh attack and just can't stop. He came with his mom and sister. I am amazed how well these two kids have adjusted to Ugandan life.
Before church this morning, one of the team members (Joanna) and I went next door to the baby house and got to take a baby for the day. Joanna had Hope, a 3 month old little girl and I had Lillian who is 6 months. They were so good and we had a lot of fun today.
The past week has been quite eventful. On Tuesday we finally got electricity. Wednesday night, Ann (my roommate who is a nurse) got attacked by a lizard, well not exactly attacked, but he jumped on her neck, scaring her half to death and we still don't know where he ended up. Thursday morning I was greeted at 6:30 am by a bat trying to attack me. This was an actual attack. Whenever I tried to get out of the bathroom, it would fly right towards my head. I finally managed to escape without being touched, thankfully because I was bright enough (I wouldn't really call this a very intelligent thing) to grab a towel and throw it over my head while running out of the bathroom. It was the only thing I could think of to save myself from being touched by that hideous creature, because I knew if I would have been touched by it, I would have been on the 1st jet home. (You can ask my mom about that one) So in the end, brave Joanna and Ann took a broom and swatted him out of the bathroom and out of our house without being touched. Meanwhile, I had found a thicker more substantial quilt to cover myself with. Little did everyone know, I was shooing the bat out of the house with the waving of the quilt. I like to think I am brave.
I think that was the end of animal kingdom here. By the way, the snake from the picture I posted earlier has been identified as a baby python. It was only about 4 feet long or so. But we have a much bigger one living in the tree behind our house.
Today, we got word that we will be getting a refrigerator on Tuesday! We are so excited, we can hardly stand it. For the past month, we have been at the mercy of our next door neighbor to house all of our refrigerated/frozen goods. It is going to be so good to finally have this appliance I used to just take for granted.
Yesterday afternoon, Joanna and I decided to be brave souls and go to Kiwoko market on boda bodas. A boda boda is like a moped and is a very common mode of transportation here. The procedure for hitching a ride on one of these things is to stand on the side of the road and wait for one to come. When you see that it is empty, you motion for the driver to stop and ask him if he is going to wherever. Well, we started walking to Kiwoko and got half way there before an empty boda boda came along. We were really hoping that we both could ride together and thankfully we could. Joanna was wearing a longer skirt, so she had to straddle the seat and I rode it properly, side saddle. We made it to Kiwoko safe and sound and got the things that we needed to buy. There were so many people there, it was crazy.
The ride back was much easier to catch because the boda boda drivers were just waiting to take people back to wherever. We jumped on and off we went. With a little scare at the end of our journey, we made it home unharmed. It was really fun and I would definitely do it again.
This week is going to be very busy again as the team is finishing up projects and going on Safari on the 14th and 15th. The team has been doing so well, I am very impressed. I only hope every team will be this productive and flexible.
Now that I realize how much I have written, I can say that I am officially over my writer's block.
Currently, one of the team members is sitting right next to me and giggling about everything I am saying. Britton, who is 5, is having a laugh attack and just can't stop. He came with his mom and sister. I am amazed how well these two kids have adjusted to Ugandan life.
Before church this morning, one of the team members (Joanna) and I went next door to the baby house and got to take a baby for the day. Joanna had Hope, a 3 month old little girl and I had Lillian who is 6 months. They were so good and we had a lot of fun today.
The past week has been quite eventful. On Tuesday we finally got electricity. Wednesday night, Ann (my roommate who is a nurse) got attacked by a lizard, well not exactly attacked, but he jumped on her neck, scaring her half to death and we still don't know where he ended up. Thursday morning I was greeted at 6:30 am by a bat trying to attack me. This was an actual attack. Whenever I tried to get out of the bathroom, it would fly right towards my head. I finally managed to escape without being touched, thankfully because I was bright enough (I wouldn't really call this a very intelligent thing) to grab a towel and throw it over my head while running out of the bathroom. It was the only thing I could think of to save myself from being touched by that hideous creature, because I knew if I would have been touched by it, I would have been on the 1st jet home. (You can ask my mom about that one) So in the end, brave Joanna and Ann took a broom and swatted him out of the bathroom and out of our house without being touched. Meanwhile, I had found a thicker more substantial quilt to cover myself with. Little did everyone know, I was shooing the bat out of the house with the waving of the quilt. I like to think I am brave.
I think that was the end of animal kingdom here. By the way, the snake from the picture I posted earlier has been identified as a baby python. It was only about 4 feet long or so. But we have a much bigger one living in the tree behind our house.
Today, we got word that we will be getting a refrigerator on Tuesday! We are so excited, we can hardly stand it. For the past month, we have been at the mercy of our next door neighbor to house all of our refrigerated/frozen goods. It is going to be so good to finally have this appliance I used to just take for granted.
Yesterday afternoon, Joanna and I decided to be brave souls and go to Kiwoko market on boda bodas. A boda boda is like a moped and is a very common mode of transportation here. The procedure for hitching a ride on one of these things is to stand on the side of the road and wait for one to come. When you see that it is empty, you motion for the driver to stop and ask him if he is going to wherever. Well, we started walking to Kiwoko and got half way there before an empty boda boda came along. We were really hoping that we both could ride together and thankfully we could. Joanna was wearing a longer skirt, so she had to straddle the seat and I rode it properly, side saddle. We made it to Kiwoko safe and sound and got the things that we needed to buy. There were so many people there, it was crazy.
The ride back was much easier to catch because the boda boda drivers were just waiting to take people back to wherever. We jumped on and off we went. With a little scare at the end of our journey, we made it home unharmed. It was really fun and I would definitely do it again.
This week is going to be very busy again as the team is finishing up projects and going on Safari on the 14th and 15th. The team has been doing so well, I am very impressed. I only hope every team will be this productive and flexible.
Now that I realize how much I have written, I can say that I am officially over my writer's block.
Wednesday February 6th
Power at last! This afternoon we had our solar batteries installed and now it is official: we have electricity. It is amazing how much I appreciate it now that I have it. So currently I am typing this blog at 9:30 in the evening while my computer is charging and a lamp (instead of a candle) is lighting the living room.
Some of the team members went to family groups. One of the team members went with me to the family group that I have been involved with and she really enjoyed it. The kids were so happy to see some new faces
I am having a bit of a writer's block (I don't consider myself much of a writer, but oh well), so I am going to sign out for tonight.
Some of the team members went to family groups. One of the team members went with me to the family group that I have been involved with and she really enjoyed it. The kids were so happy to see some new faces
I am having a bit of a writer's block (I don't consider myself much of a writer, but oh well), so I am going to sign out for tonight.
Tuesday February 5th
The past few days have been so hot here, but I'm sure those of you back in the states feel little or no sympathy for me. Well, all I can say is that I wish for a bit of the cold every once in a while. The cold showers don't even feel remotely brisk anymore.
Monday morning, Gary, the driver, and I left Kasana at 5 am to pick up the team in Entebbe. We had to drive through Kampala to get to Entebbe, so as always, Kampala was fast and furious. The plane arrived in good time and all the luggage was found. Even though all the luggage made it through the transporting, not everything in the luggage did. So after the proper paperwork was filled out, we left the airport to go eat, and go craft shopping before making our way to Kasana.
After a long and tiring day, we all made it safely there. It was really fun to see the looks on everyone's faces as we were driving through all the insane traffic and through the beautiful countryside. That was me only 3 weeks ago. But it really feels as if I have been here for much longer.
This morning was filled with a lot of activities for the jet-lagged team to embrace. At 8 am, there was a receiving ceremony for the new children at Kasana. All the new kids (I think there were 67 in all) came up to the front and the staff parents prayed for them individually. To see all the children who have lost so much and being welcomed into such a loving home was really amazing. It made me stop and realize why I am here.
After the ceremony, they had orientation, followed by a quick tour of Kasana and then it was off to work. The day just flew by and now it is time for me to say good night.
Thank you again for all of your thoughts, prayers and messages. I really appreciate them all. It is time for bed, and thankfully the temperature has dropped to 80.
Monday morning, Gary, the driver, and I left Kasana at 5 am to pick up the team in Entebbe. We had to drive through Kampala to get to Entebbe, so as always, Kampala was fast and furious. The plane arrived in good time and all the luggage was found. Even though all the luggage made it through the transporting, not everything in the luggage did. So after the proper paperwork was filled out, we left the airport to go eat, and go craft shopping before making our way to Kasana.
After a long and tiring day, we all made it safely there. It was really fun to see the looks on everyone's faces as we were driving through all the insane traffic and through the beautiful countryside. That was me only 3 weeks ago. But it really feels as if I have been here for much longer.
This morning was filled with a lot of activities for the jet-lagged team to embrace. At 8 am, there was a receiving ceremony for the new children at Kasana. All the new kids (I think there were 67 in all) came up to the front and the staff parents prayed for them individually. To see all the children who have lost so much and being welcomed into such a loving home was really amazing. It made me stop and realize why I am here.
After the ceremony, they had orientation, followed by a quick tour of Kasana and then it was off to work. The day just flew by and now it is time for me to say good night.
Thank you again for all of your thoughts, prayers and messages. I really appreciate them all. It is time for bed, and thankfully the temperature has dropped to 80.
Friday February 1st
It was 90+ today, and tonight it has cooled to a nice 78 degrees.
I can't believe that it is Friday night already. This week has gone by so fast, but thank goodness the weekend lies ahead of me. Nancy and I have been really busy getting ready for the team that is coming on Monday The original plan was to have the men on the team stay in tents, while keeping the women in some on-site housing that was available. But with the early rains we have been getting, the fear of malaria made us consider Plan B. The team will be staying with some staff, some on-site housing, and everywhere else in between. A lot of planning and preparation goes into all of this, so I am definitely learning a lot. 5 a.m. Monday morning, Gary Wood and I are will be going to Kampala to pick up the team in Entebbe. I am excited for the team to come, but not excited about the 5 a.m. departure. But the team will probably be more tired than I.
On Wednesday, something happened that will be forever engrained in my memory. I started out the day by helping a lady in the child sponsorship program photograph the new children that are coming in. My job was to write a quick description of what they were wearing so if the pictures came back out of order, we would have a pretty good clue about who was who. All the children were lining up by Jill, the lady who works in child sponsorship, and I. Jill had told me on the way down to the assembly of kids, that for many for the children, we will be the first muzungu (white people) that they will have ever seen. As the children were lining up beside us, a little girl reached over and touched my forearm. She did it again, and this time her face lit up and I think she realized that I WAS real. She grabbed my hand and just held it tightly, but the whole time she just kept looking at my white hand next to her dark hand. I wish I had my camera with me so that I could have taken a picture of it. She then took her handkerchief and started rubbing my hand as if to get the “white” off of it. As much as she tried, I was still white. Some other kids would come up to me and just touch my skin to see if I was real or not. It was definitely one of those experiences that one never forgets.
Tomorrow, I will be working with one of the investment year students in the afternoon. For those of you who are not familiar with the investment year program, it is designed to help the students who have finished S4 (which is kind of like 10th grade in the American system) develop and learn some skills that might spark some interest about what they want to do with their future while teaching them money management and other things. I will be teaching the student basic baking and also he wanted to try out some photography. I am really looking forward to it.
Nancy is going to Kampala tomorrow to get our long awaited solar batteries. Hopefully by Sunday or Monday night we will be fully charged and I can write this blog by lamplight instead of candlelight. What can I way, our house is never lacking in ambiance.
I can't believe that it is Friday night already. This week has gone by so fast, but thank goodness the weekend lies ahead of me. Nancy and I have been really busy getting ready for the team that is coming on Monday The original plan was to have the men on the team stay in tents, while keeping the women in some on-site housing that was available. But with the early rains we have been getting, the fear of malaria made us consider Plan B. The team will be staying with some staff, some on-site housing, and everywhere else in between. A lot of planning and preparation goes into all of this, so I am definitely learning a lot. 5 a.m. Monday morning, Gary Wood and I are will be going to Kampala to pick up the team in Entebbe. I am excited for the team to come, but not excited about the 5 a.m. departure. But the team will probably be more tired than I.
On Wednesday, something happened that will be forever engrained in my memory. I started out the day by helping a lady in the child sponsorship program photograph the new children that are coming in. My job was to write a quick description of what they were wearing so if the pictures came back out of order, we would have a pretty good clue about who was who. All the children were lining up by Jill, the lady who works in child sponsorship, and I. Jill had told me on the way down to the assembly of kids, that for many for the children, we will be the first muzungu (white people) that they will have ever seen. As the children were lining up beside us, a little girl reached over and touched my forearm. She did it again, and this time her face lit up and I think she realized that I WAS real. She grabbed my hand and just held it tightly, but the whole time she just kept looking at my white hand next to her dark hand. I wish I had my camera with me so that I could have taken a picture of it. She then took her handkerchief and started rubbing my hand as if to get the “white” off of it. As much as she tried, I was still white. Some other kids would come up to me and just touch my skin to see if I was real or not. It was definitely one of those experiences that one never forgets.
Tomorrow, I will be working with one of the investment year students in the afternoon. For those of you who are not familiar with the investment year program, it is designed to help the students who have finished S4 (which is kind of like 10th grade in the American system) develop and learn some skills that might spark some interest about what they want to do with their future while teaching them money management and other things. I will be teaching the student basic baking and also he wanted to try out some photography. I am really looking forward to it.
Nancy is going to Kampala tomorrow to get our long awaited solar batteries. Hopefully by Sunday or Monday night we will be fully charged and I can write this blog by lamplight instead of candlelight. What can I way, our house is never lacking in ambiance.
Tuesday January 29th
On Monday, Nancy and I started working in our temporary office in the administration building. The actual office that will be Nancy's (but I will be using it also while I am here) does not have furniture yet. So, two gracious ladies offered us their office for the time being. It is kind of weird having an office and thinking "I have to go to the office today." I guess I never really thought of me ever getting that old to have to say that. But now that I'm here, it is fun to be a part of the "office" world.
Today was a really frustrating day for me. I am not quite sure why, but I think it has to do with the fact that I am a time-conscious Westerner. I value time and respect those who keep it well. Here, everything is done whenever it gets done and you are never quite sure when it will get done. And also, effective communication is very important to me. Knowing who is doing what and when it is going to be done are just things that I value to know, and also (to an extent) expect people to value as well. But life is a bit different here. I am not claiming to be the most punctual person in the world, and for those who know my family, we are not always on time. But a certain degree of time is kept. Usually we will be 15 minutes late, not an hour and a half late. "On Time" is not in the vocabulary here. But God must be teaching me patience.
Now that I have my spilled my guts to everyone, the rest of my day was really fun. I went with Nancy again to her family group (David family). The kids are so much fun and really like to laugh at how bad I pronounce their second name. Their second name is similar to our "last name."
There was a little girl and a little boy who decided they wanted to take some pictures with my camera, but ended up taking a little more than a few. I am posting some of those pictures for you all to see "Life through the eyes of a Ugandan child." I am tempted to give them my camera for a day and see what they end up taking pictures of.
Lately there have been more and more people walking around Kasana. New faces everywhere I turn. With a new school year starting on Monday, it is bound to be a bustling village by the end of this week.
I hope this gives you all a little more information about what is going on down here. Enjoy the pictures. (clicking on them makes them much larger)
Sunday January 27th
Well, we all made it back safe and sound from Kampala. It was a really busy day, but we got a lot done. I witnessed my first open air market yesterday. Everything I learned in my Food Sanitation class was thrown out the window. It was very interesting to say the least.
So far, we still don't have electricity because our solar batteries are bad, and couldn't get new ones yesterday. Hopefully soon we will be able to get the batteries and have light at night. It is amazing how much I appreciate the simple things that I once just took for granted, such as electricity, running water, and ice cubes.
I wasn't sure if I would find it, but I did. ICE CREAM!!! I was thinking that I would have to wait 4 whole months to have ice cream again, but yesterday I found it. (So Betsy, you can have some tonight) Ice cream found, all is well.
So far, we still don't have electricity because our solar batteries are bad, and couldn't get new ones yesterday. Hopefully soon we will be able to get the batteries and have light at night. It is amazing how much I appreciate the simple things that I once just took for granted, such as electricity, running water, and ice cubes.
I wasn't sure if I would find it, but I did. ICE CREAM!!! I was thinking that I would have to wait 4 whole months to have ice cream again, but yesterday I found it. (So Betsy, you can have some tonight) Ice cream found, all is well.
Friday January 25th
This week has just flown by. It is already Friday, wow.
With staff training done, the real work has begun. After meeting with the management about what I will be doing, I found that I will be working side by side with Nancy getting everything ready for teams that are coming in. So far it has been really fun and exciting learning about teams and guests that are coming in the months ahead. There are many challenges and little details to iron out, but it is really fun and I am learning a lot.
On February 4th, the teams from North Dakota and other states will be arriving. Please pray that all of the transport and time that they are here would be safe and effective.
On February 14th, another staff member and I will be hosting the team on safari. I am very excited about this opportunity, as is my family. I will hopefully be posting some pictures from that outing, so you all can be looking for those in the near future.
Tomorrow, Nancy, Ann and I are going to Kampala to do a big shopping trip. I could not believe that city when we first drove through it. I thoroughly respect anyone who attempts to drive there. Cars, boda bodas, bicycles, and pedestrians are just going anywhere they want and whenever they want. It is crazy.
It has been so good to hear from everyone through comments here, email, or facebook. It is amazing that I am out in the bush and do not have electricity, fully running water, but I am writing to everyone back home on wireless internet. Amazing.
With staff training done, the real work has begun. After meeting with the management about what I will be doing, I found that I will be working side by side with Nancy getting everything ready for teams that are coming in. So far it has been really fun and exciting learning about teams and guests that are coming in the months ahead. There are many challenges and little details to iron out, but it is really fun and I am learning a lot.
On February 4th, the teams from North Dakota and other states will be arriving. Please pray that all of the transport and time that they are here would be safe and effective.
On February 14th, another staff member and I will be hosting the team on safari. I am very excited about this opportunity, as is my family. I will hopefully be posting some pictures from that outing, so you all can be looking for those in the near future.
Tomorrow, Nancy, Ann and I are going to Kampala to do a big shopping trip. I could not believe that city when we first drove through it. I thoroughly respect anyone who attempts to drive there. Cars, boda bodas, bicycles, and pedestrians are just going anywhere they want and whenever they want. It is crazy.
It has been so good to hear from everyone through comments here, email, or facebook. It is amazing that I am out in the bush and do not have electricity, fully running water, but I am writing to everyone back home on wireless internet. Amazing.
Tuesday January 22nd
I just got back from our final Envisioning Week event. We all came together for a traditional Kigandan meal (the "K" makes a "Ch" sound, so it is pronounced "Cheegandan") We all sat on mats and ate with our hands...who knew that eating with my hands would be so difficult. It was quite an experience to say the least. And also, none of us could talk during the meal, so I was a little bewildered about what to do.
Now that Envisioning Week is done, I will finally start my job tomorrow. I am meeting with some people tomorrow and will be getting started planning for the ND team that will be arriving on February 4th.
Before I meet with the people about my job, some of us will be going to the Vocational Institute to watch one of the boys weave fabric. If only I had seen the weaving before I had taken my Textiles class...but now I have a real appreciation for it.
It was pretty warm today. It is 10:10 pm right now and it is about 81 degrees, so you can imagine how warm it was when the sun was in full form.
I can't believe it has already been 8 days since I got to Uganda. I think the 4 months that lie ahead of me will be gone before I know it.
Now that Envisioning Week is done, I will finally start my job tomorrow. I am meeting with some people tomorrow and will be getting started planning for the ND team that will be arriving on February 4th.
Before I meet with the people about my job, some of us will be going to the Vocational Institute to watch one of the boys weave fabric. If only I had seen the weaving before I had taken my Textiles class...but now I have a real appreciation for it.
It was pretty warm today. It is 10:10 pm right now and it is about 81 degrees, so you can imagine how warm it was when the sun was in full form.
I can't believe it has already been 8 days since I got to Uganda. I think the 4 months that lie ahead of me will be gone before I know it.
Sunday January 20th
It is currently 9:39 pm and is about 77 degrees. I feel like I should be adjusting to the temperature difference, but I think I am feeling warmer than when I came.
We had church this morning from 10:30-1:00. People come from all around to attend, so I am constantly meeting new people.
Later on, Nancy, Ann, and I went to Nancy's Family group (David Family) to meet them all and have supper. I had met some of the children before, but there were so many new faces. They were so friendly and wanted to know all about my family, and about North Dakota. Some of the children had a little guessing game about my age. Some thought I was 18, and some thought I was 32. But when I was their age, I though all the adults were the same in age. (Can I be saying that I am an adult??) After supper, I even got my hair braided a little bit by some of the girls.
I just got the alert that my battery is very low, so I better be going.
We had church this morning from 10:30-1:00. People come from all around to attend, so I am constantly meeting new people.
Later on, Nancy, Ann, and I went to Nancy's Family group (David Family) to meet them all and have supper. I had met some of the children before, but there were so many new faces. They were so friendly and wanted to know all about my family, and about North Dakota. Some of the children had a little guessing game about my age. Some thought I was 18, and some thought I was 32. But when I was their age, I though all the adults were the same in age. (Can I be saying that I am an adult??) After supper, I even got my hair braided a little bit by some of the girls.
I just got the alert that my battery is very low, so I better be going.
Saturday January 19th
It is 11:00 Saturday morning and is about 81 degrees outside. I can't believe it has almost been a week since I arrived in Uganda.
After staff training was done for the day, we all came together for a meal and learned about true English etiquette from one of the staff members. It was fun to be back doing something that I knew. My stomach is not quite used to the food here yet, but hopefully with time it will get better. There is not much on the schedule for today, since we get the weekend off. Tomorrow night, Ann and I are going with Nancy to her family group and I am really looking forward to meeting the rest of the kids I have not met.
I will hopefully write more tonight, so for now, Tunaalabangana (See you later)
After staff training was done for the day, we all came together for a meal and learned about true English etiquette from one of the staff members. It was fun to be back doing something that I knew. My stomach is not quite used to the food here yet, but hopefully with time it will get better. There is not much on the schedule for today, since we get the weekend off. Tomorrow night, Ann and I are going with Nancy to her family group and I am really looking forward to meeting the rest of the kids I have not met.
I will hopefully write more tonight, so for now, Tunaalabangana (See you later)
Battery life is good so now I can write
I got my laptop battery charged today, so here goes.
Currently it is 9:22 pm and I am writing to you all by candle light. I am staying in Nancy Kirsch's house with her and Ann, who is a nurse. The solar batteries that power our electricity hasn't been able to charge, due to rainy days and tired solar batteries. Hopefully but next Sunday we should be hooked up and ready to go.
On Wednesday all the staff started Envisioning Week, which is training and learning about what New Hope Uganda does and gives good insight into what to expect. The past 2 days have been really good. We start out the day with worship and I love the music. I am so happy that I am familiar with Hillsong music because they seem to like their songs. (To all you Crystal Spring Camp lovers, it is like being at camp every day)
I hope this gives you some insight into what is going on down here. It was good to hear from some of you and have a good night (well night for me, day for you)
Currently it is 9:22 pm and I am writing to you all by candle light. I am staying in Nancy Kirsch's house with her and Ann, who is a nurse. The solar batteries that power our electricity hasn't been able to charge, due to rainy days and tired solar batteries. Hopefully but next Sunday we should be hooked up and ready to go.
On Wednesday all the staff started Envisioning Week, which is training and learning about what New Hope Uganda does and gives good insight into what to expect. The past 2 days have been really good. We start out the day with worship and I love the music. I am so happy that I am familiar with Hillsong music because they seem to like their songs. (To all you Crystal Spring Camp lovers, it is like being at camp every day)
I hope this gives you some insight into what is going on down here. It was good to hear from some of you and have a good night (well night for me, day for you)
I'm here
Greetings from Uganda! I just wanted to let everyone know that I arrived here safely on Monday around 9:30 am (12:30 ND time) and everything went well. I will write more when I have more battery on my computer.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)