I thought the blogging was done...but in my reflecting I feel there is something very important that I have not mentioned. I'm not sure why now except it is not my gift and I try very hard not to leave it up to me but to others to tell the story. I am a leader in almost every where I go but in this. I have good morals and God and church and family are very important to me. Someone needs to tell people about Jesus but that is not my gift so I pray that it doesn't get left up to me. But now I feel that I have to tell the truth that is in my heart.
You see I traveled half way around the world and had no problem sharing my heart; my love for my saviour; my love for Jesus Christ. Now I have never been one to preach to others because I truly hate to be preached to. I hope that the way I live shows my love. But I know many great people who give of themselves like no others and yet don't know our Lord. So just being a good person doesn't always reflect who we are and what we believe. We need to tell those we love about Jesus and yet sharing with those we love the most, and we most want to be saved, is the hardest thing for many of us. At least I know it is for me. I tend to shy away and not say a word. Someone aught to tell them about Jesus - they need to know. But that isn't my gift so you probably shouldn't leave that up to me. But if not for me than who. Who will tell the ones I love and who will tell your loved ones. So here I go. I am bearing my soul and I hope it changes just one life.
My children brought me to Christ and I will be forever indebted and grateful. One of my greatest regrets is that the roles weren't reversed and I didn't do that for them. None the less at this time it really doesn't matter. My faith has changed my world. I know now that I am never alone. I have faith to know that He will never leave me and the comfort in that is overwhelming. He knows me like no other and he hears me when I pray to Him even when my prayers seem so insignificant. He has wrapped me in his arms and He loves me even though I really don't deserve His love. He made me just as He did so in His eyes I am perfect in spite of all my perceived imperfections. Being able to share His love with my family is amazing and I wish I could share it with everyone I know and love. All I had to do to have this amazing gift be a part of my life was to believe that Jesus died on the cross for ME and accept him into my heart. Once I did nothing was ever the same. Don't get me wrong (and for those of you who know me well you can certainly confirm this many, many times over) I still do stupid things and say all the wrong things. But I know I am forgiven and thus get a clean slate to move forward. What a blessing. I would love to share my journey with anyone who asks for it is quite a journey. Every one needs to know and everyone needs to see, but you probably shouldn't leave it up to me! Remember it is not my gift.
The other reflection I had was the sameness and the difference in our two churches. At Riverside, a team of dedicated souls gets to church at 7 am to set up the stage for the music, the curtains to contain the church setting, the chairs, etc. We have a sound system, a screen to project the words to the music, the words from the Bible, and whatever else we may need and of course doughnuts to welcome the folks when they enter. We hand out programs with all the news of what is taking place during the coming week and we have both parking attendants and a welcoming committee. Though we worship in basically a play center we do everything we can to present a church atmosphere. In Iganga we worshipped in an empty building. On the front wall someone had written in big white letters "Spider Man". In smaller letters above it, it must have at one time read, "This is not a church". Someone had erased the not, so there is now a space between "This is" and "a church". They dragged in wooden benches with no backs where the kids sat 6-8 to a bench during the service. We have Glenn that leads our singing and worship time. They have a woman who leads there's but there are several groups of children that come up and not only sing but dance. No microphones - they just shout out their songs with dancing and smiles. The singing and dancing goes on for a good long time and they are in no hurry for it to end. There is no projector to show the words though there was a young boy pounding on a drum. When the benches are full the kids take to the floor. It is truly standing room only.
What I came away from church is that "church" is the same regardless of where you are. The important thing is that we worship our Lord and that can be done in any language in any building. There doesn't need to be an alter, the building doesn't have to be pretty, the language doesn't have to be understood. The truth is in our hearts and that can be done anywhere.
In closing, I'm sure there will be more revelations as I continue to sort through all my pictures and things come to mind. But for today telling about our Lord is NOT my gift and not something I am comfortable with. But I did it in Iganga with such a peaceful heart I just knew I had to do it here. I hope I have given some of you the courage to do the same. In His love, Sue
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Time to Reflect
I have now been home for a few days and have decided to try to recap the trip though I'm not sure I can put that in words on paper. The trip was an experience of a lifetime and I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to go outside of my comfort zone and meet our children on the other side of the world. The truth is that regardless of where they are children are children. They still like to play and they still want to be noticed and loved. Nothing is different than our kids here. Instinctively they are the same. These children have the most giving and loving hearts. And even though they knew we would be leaving them behind they were not afraid to open up and share themselves with us. They gave us their hearts and their souls and I will treasure that forever. I have to say I question how it is for them to know that we get to leave at the end of our time there and they will always be left behind. That part of the journey really bothered me. The tears they shed as we left were sincere and huge. Their lives would go back to normal. Nothing would change. We had come and we had left just like other mission teams before us. I am still processing the goodness of that. I know we made a difference. I know that our love (as sincere as anything they showed us) made an impact, but how many, if any of us, will ever get a chance to go back. I have to say, I'd go back in a heartbeat. Those kids are now a part of my life and they touched my heart in ways I didn't think possible. I have been touched by lives I will think about often and would love to reach out and touch again. I'd love to take Cody, Sam, Kari, John and of course Steve with me. My family would just love on these kids and it would be an amazing experience to share as a family.
One of the things that Riverside Church talks a lot about is community. I feel like we live in a great community. We come together in times of difficulty and this has been true since we first moved here almost 15 years ago. My friendships here are strong and I love the people in the area. But I saw community in Iganga like I have never seen here. Here we have doors and we tend to come home and shut them to the world. We come in and shut out the world hiding in our air conditioned houses among ourselves. In Iganga there are no real doors. As a result the people sit on their front stoops all together - the adults and the kids. Children are running around everywhere and I never walked or drove down a rural road without seeing people on the streets. I miss the people. I miss that level of community. I had the sense that everyone knew every one and though they didn't have much they took care of one another. We as strangers came and their children walked (actually ran) right up to us. The mothers didn't shield their children from a stranger who might harm them. They sat on the stoop and watched with smiles on their faces as we interacted. There was no fear that we would harm their children. There was no stranger danger. We were taking pictures of their children. There was no fear of us posting them on the Internet and it going to a porn sight or some equally dangerous sight. There was a certain innocence that has long been missing from this country of ours. And it was a delight to see. The sense of community was amazing.
Along those same lines of community, our group of twelve was a very strong knit group. We bonded by the end of the first flight and the bond continued to grow throughout the trip. Everyone brought their own gift to the team but no one was afraid to jump in and help regardless of what was needed. The days were long and the sleep was short and tempers could have flared, but they didn't. God was definitely with us and he provided exactly what we needed when we needed. I know this first hand because my biggest prayer was for strength to make it through the trip. I was the oldest by several years (hence the name "Grandmother") and did not start out in very good shape. And yet, I managed to keep up though we burned the candle at both ends. I may have been dragged up Sipi Falls but I was there at the top with the rest of the team. And for the rest of the team I was there with the best of them! The weather was perfect the entire time we were there and we managed to accomplish quite a bit of what we had planned. The part, unfortunately, that kept getting pushed back, was VBS. In hindsight, this is a part that we need to ensure (in my opinion) doesn't take the back seat in future trips. It was a part that guaranteed we spent fun time with the kids and got to share about our Lord. In Uganda there is an unwritten rule that we had to visit and eat with several people who we have previously established relationships with. I have absolutely nothing against eating with these folks as it was a pleasure every time - to meet with them, see where they live and meet their families - but I wish we could have fit VBS in as well. On all three occasions it was very refreshing to see new surroundings in Iganga and always a challenge to see what the meal consisted of. Anyway, back to community I was blessed to have such a great group to travel with. I have made eleven new friends who I will always hold dear in my heart. What we shared will tie us together for a lifetime.
We left Iganga at 9 am on Monday morning our time and traveled to Jinja for some shopping. We all wanted the opportunity to buy some souvenirs to bring back and the chance to get in some bargaining. We stopped at a restaurant that served delicious food we actually recognized (I had something similar to a chicken fajita) and then crossed the street to shop. The wood working in Jinja was beautiful. Every African animal you can imagine carved in wood. I was in heaven. We spent a few hours there and headed to the source of the Nile River. I have to admit, the Nile is something I never ever thought I would see in this lifetime. And there we were. It was absolutely beautiful! Incredibly beautiful in fact. And right there to my left was a young man washing his clothes in the river. Here we were in awe and to him it was just another day to launder his clothing. I was struck by the wonder and the common place all at the same time. To my right another gentleman was bathing in the river. Again to him it was just another day. To us, it was magnificent. Pure beauty. And sadly enough at this time next year there will be a dam right there where we were standing. The beauty as we saw it will be gone. I found it difficult to comprehend the poverty and desperation on one hand and the pure beauty on the other all in the same place. Uganda is a beautiful country both in scenery and in its people. Smiles come easily for a nation so ravaged by poverty.
We then travelled to Kampala where we spent the night. This time our reservation was still valid and they had not given away our rooms. The hotel was really nice - hot water - soft beds and a great pizza place within walking distance. By the time we got back to the hotel we barely had time to enjoy the splendor as we were all asleep within minutes. The next morning we got up and met a friend of Brian's who is living in Uganda for lunch and then slowly started our trek back to Entebbe to the airport as our flight left late that night. We were all sad to leave Uganda as it had been a fabulous two weeks though I think we were all ready to get home and see our families. On the way we stopped to see the airplane that in the early 70's had been hijacked by terrorists and forced to land in Entebbe. It is now permanently parked near a public beach so we got to see the plane and the beach. Near the beach were two camels not tied to anything. The first time we approached the camels one of them charged Kayla and almost got her with his hoof. Well this is all Jaimie and I needed. The stage was set and we were determined to pet them and win the war though Kayla had almost lost the battle. And I will have you know we did. I have a picture of me petting the camel. I may look a little leary but I did it!!
Our trip was not over yet...we finally boarded the plane headed for Amsterdam. Most of us by this point were hot, sweaty and tired. The first leg of the trip many of us slept and so all the cool stuff (movies, food, etc.) we missed out on. We landed in Amsterdam at 5:30 am their time, stowed our backpacks in lockers and took off to see the city. Our timing was perfect. The country had just won the semi-finals to the World Cup so their world was rockin'. There were orange decorations and soccer balls everywhere which was awesome for a soccer fan like me. We hiked around and finally found an amazing restaurant (though our opinion might be a little skewed based on what we'd been eating for the past two weeks) and sat down to some french toast and breads like none other. Of course, we did take a little detour through the Red light district (which in Amsterdam is pretty easy to do). For those parents of our kids who are reading this be assured we hurried your kids through the area except when I felt it was necessary to stop and take a picture :) Anyway, breakfast was great!!! Then we took a boat ride through the canal and got to see the city from the water. Obviously we didn't see it all, but we did get a feel for Amsterdam and it was much better than spending 8 hours in the airport. We had a chance to take the train, to walk the streets and to take a tour. All the while celebrating with them their victory the day before. And finally we headed back through security (for me it was the second to last time to drag the computer out of my very full backpack) and boarded the plane for another almost nine hour flight. And let me tell you this flight was LONG!!! Every time I looked up at the remaining time it seemed like only 15 or 20 had passed. It was a lot like the "Song that never ends!" Finally after a very short layover in Atlanta where some of us (myself included) had to go through customs we were on our way back home. By this time home was something none of us were taking for granted. We were all so ready to be there.
We were greeted at the airport by all our families and friends from the church who had seen us off. It was so good to see friendly faces. And though we greeted each one with a smile and a hug we were all ready to grab our bags and head home to our own beds. Somehow I've been back for less than a week and the trip already seems like a lifetime ago. I have over 8,000 pictures to go through (and that doesn't count Amanda's who took some magnificent photos) and I'm sure I will be looking at them for years to come. The trip was amazing. It was nothing like I imagined it would be, and everything I hoped it would be. I would love to have had more time with the kids. I would love to have gotten to know every one of them, but in two weeks that was impossible. I would love to have every sponsor get a chance to visit their child because every child (and I mean every child I spoke with) asked when THEIR sponsor would be coming. You each mean the world to these kids. Your letters are truly a source of joy to them. They stood in line for over two hours to get your letters and then shared it with every one around them. They had us take pictures of the pictures you sent. There truly is a lifeline between you and them and they are very, very grateful for all you do for them. You may think it is "just" a check you are sending. But to them you are real. You are a person who has changed their world. They know that and they are eternally grateful. They love you for what you have done for them. You can email them at Phil's email address and he will make sure they get your letter. If they don't speak English someone will translate for them. I would love to go back and see them all again and build on the relationship I have started.
I want to thank each of you who prayed for or financially assisted me with this trip. You too, changed lives. We medically treated many children while we were there and we've left behind medical supplies to use in the future. You all made this possible. I thank each of you from the bottom of my heart. I hope you've been able to read this blog and see what an impact this trip has had on me. I have been blessed beyond words and my job now is to share my experience with all the sponsors so they will see these kids for who they are. I want them to be more than a magnet on the refrigerator. I want them to come alive so they can sponsor them with joy.
I love each and every one of you. May God bless you all.
Sue
One of the things that Riverside Church talks a lot about is community. I feel like we live in a great community. We come together in times of difficulty and this has been true since we first moved here almost 15 years ago. My friendships here are strong and I love the people in the area. But I saw community in Iganga like I have never seen here. Here we have doors and we tend to come home and shut them to the world. We come in and shut out the world hiding in our air conditioned houses among ourselves. In Iganga there are no real doors. As a result the people sit on their front stoops all together - the adults and the kids. Children are running around everywhere and I never walked or drove down a rural road without seeing people on the streets. I miss the people. I miss that level of community. I had the sense that everyone knew every one and though they didn't have much they took care of one another. We as strangers came and their children walked (actually ran) right up to us. The mothers didn't shield their children from a stranger who might harm them. They sat on the stoop and watched with smiles on their faces as we interacted. There was no fear that we would harm their children. There was no stranger danger. We were taking pictures of their children. There was no fear of us posting them on the Internet and it going to a porn sight or some equally dangerous sight. There was a certain innocence that has long been missing from this country of ours. And it was a delight to see. The sense of community was amazing.
Along those same lines of community, our group of twelve was a very strong knit group. We bonded by the end of the first flight and the bond continued to grow throughout the trip. Everyone brought their own gift to the team but no one was afraid to jump in and help regardless of what was needed. The days were long and the sleep was short and tempers could have flared, but they didn't. God was definitely with us and he provided exactly what we needed when we needed. I know this first hand because my biggest prayer was for strength to make it through the trip. I was the oldest by several years (hence the name "Grandmother") and did not start out in very good shape. And yet, I managed to keep up though we burned the candle at both ends. I may have been dragged up Sipi Falls but I was there at the top with the rest of the team. And for the rest of the team I was there with the best of them! The weather was perfect the entire time we were there and we managed to accomplish quite a bit of what we had planned. The part, unfortunately, that kept getting pushed back, was VBS. In hindsight, this is a part that we need to ensure (in my opinion) doesn't take the back seat in future trips. It was a part that guaranteed we spent fun time with the kids and got to share about our Lord. In Uganda there is an unwritten rule that we had to visit and eat with several people who we have previously established relationships with. I have absolutely nothing against eating with these folks as it was a pleasure every time - to meet with them, see where they live and meet their families - but I wish we could have fit VBS in as well. On all three occasions it was very refreshing to see new surroundings in Iganga and always a challenge to see what the meal consisted of. Anyway, back to community I was blessed to have such a great group to travel with. I have made eleven new friends who I will always hold dear in my heart. What we shared will tie us together for a lifetime.
We left Iganga at 9 am on Monday morning our time and traveled to Jinja for some shopping. We all wanted the opportunity to buy some souvenirs to bring back and the chance to get in some bargaining. We stopped at a restaurant that served delicious food we actually recognized (I had something similar to a chicken fajita) and then crossed the street to shop. The wood working in Jinja was beautiful. Every African animal you can imagine carved in wood. I was in heaven. We spent a few hours there and headed to the source of the Nile River. I have to admit, the Nile is something I never ever thought I would see in this lifetime. And there we were. It was absolutely beautiful! Incredibly beautiful in fact. And right there to my left was a young man washing his clothes in the river. Here we were in awe and to him it was just another day to launder his clothing. I was struck by the wonder and the common place all at the same time. To my right another gentleman was bathing in the river. Again to him it was just another day. To us, it was magnificent. Pure beauty. And sadly enough at this time next year there will be a dam right there where we were standing. The beauty as we saw it will be gone. I found it difficult to comprehend the poverty and desperation on one hand and the pure beauty on the other all in the same place. Uganda is a beautiful country both in scenery and in its people. Smiles come easily for a nation so ravaged by poverty.
We then travelled to Kampala where we spent the night. This time our reservation was still valid and they had not given away our rooms. The hotel was really nice - hot water - soft beds and a great pizza place within walking distance. By the time we got back to the hotel we barely had time to enjoy the splendor as we were all asleep within minutes. The next morning we got up and met a friend of Brian's who is living in Uganda for lunch and then slowly started our trek back to Entebbe to the airport as our flight left late that night. We were all sad to leave Uganda as it had been a fabulous two weeks though I think we were all ready to get home and see our families. On the way we stopped to see the airplane that in the early 70's had been hijacked by terrorists and forced to land in Entebbe. It is now permanently parked near a public beach so we got to see the plane and the beach. Near the beach were two camels not tied to anything. The first time we approached the camels one of them charged Kayla and almost got her with his hoof. Well this is all Jaimie and I needed. The stage was set and we were determined to pet them and win the war though Kayla had almost lost the battle. And I will have you know we did. I have a picture of me petting the camel. I may look a little leary but I did it!!
Our trip was not over yet...we finally boarded the plane headed for Amsterdam. Most of us by this point were hot, sweaty and tired. The first leg of the trip many of us slept and so all the cool stuff (movies, food, etc.) we missed out on. We landed in Amsterdam at 5:30 am their time, stowed our backpacks in lockers and took off to see the city. Our timing was perfect. The country had just won the semi-finals to the World Cup so their world was rockin'. There were orange decorations and soccer balls everywhere which was awesome for a soccer fan like me. We hiked around and finally found an amazing restaurant (though our opinion might be a little skewed based on what we'd been eating for the past two weeks) and sat down to some french toast and breads like none other. Of course, we did take a little detour through the Red light district (which in Amsterdam is pretty easy to do). For those parents of our kids who are reading this be assured we hurried your kids through the area except when I felt it was necessary to stop and take a picture :) Anyway, breakfast was great!!! Then we took a boat ride through the canal and got to see the city from the water. Obviously we didn't see it all, but we did get a feel for Amsterdam and it was much better than spending 8 hours in the airport. We had a chance to take the train, to walk the streets and to take a tour. All the while celebrating with them their victory the day before. And finally we headed back through security (for me it was the second to last time to drag the computer out of my very full backpack) and boarded the plane for another almost nine hour flight. And let me tell you this flight was LONG!!! Every time I looked up at the remaining time it seemed like only 15 or 20 had passed. It was a lot like the "Song that never ends!" Finally after a very short layover in Atlanta where some of us (myself included) had to go through customs we were on our way back home. By this time home was something none of us were taking for granted. We were all so ready to be there.
We were greeted at the airport by all our families and friends from the church who had seen us off. It was so good to see friendly faces. And though we greeted each one with a smile and a hug we were all ready to grab our bags and head home to our own beds. Somehow I've been back for less than a week and the trip already seems like a lifetime ago. I have over 8,000 pictures to go through (and that doesn't count Amanda's who took some magnificent photos) and I'm sure I will be looking at them for years to come. The trip was amazing. It was nothing like I imagined it would be, and everything I hoped it would be. I would love to have had more time with the kids. I would love to have gotten to know every one of them, but in two weeks that was impossible. I would love to have every sponsor get a chance to visit their child because every child (and I mean every child I spoke with) asked when THEIR sponsor would be coming. You each mean the world to these kids. Your letters are truly a source of joy to them. They stood in line for over two hours to get your letters and then shared it with every one around them. They had us take pictures of the pictures you sent. There truly is a lifeline between you and them and they are very, very grateful for all you do for them. You may think it is "just" a check you are sending. But to them you are real. You are a person who has changed their world. They know that and they are eternally grateful. They love you for what you have done for them. You can email them at Phil's email address and he will make sure they get your letter. If they don't speak English someone will translate for them. I would love to go back and see them all again and build on the relationship I have started.
I want to thank each of you who prayed for or financially assisted me with this trip. You too, changed lives. We medically treated many children while we were there and we've left behind medical supplies to use in the future. You all made this possible. I thank each of you from the bottom of my heart. I hope you've been able to read this blog and see what an impact this trip has had on me. I have been blessed beyond words and my job now is to share my experience with all the sponsors so they will see these kids for who they are. I want them to be more than a magnet on the refrigerator. I want them to come alive so they can sponsor them with joy.
I love each and every one of you. May God bless you all.
Sue
Monday, July 5, 2010
A Sad Farewell
Well today marked the end of an amazing journey. We woke up this morning to bid farewell to the girls who live at Phil's house and it was very sad. For many of them they have seen Americans come and go. But still they stay. We come for two weeks and share our love and our lives and then we return to America and their lives continue on in the same pattern as before. There were many tears on both sides. i could feel the pain in their hearts that once again something good was leaving them behind. Do I regret coming? Not in the least. But I wish somehow we could bring the joy without the heartache. I think they all needed the love and the hugs and to be told that someone really cared for them. I think they needed to know that they were not alone in this world. though I'm sure it often seems that way. I think they needed to know that we traveled half way around the world for them. But the two weeks have flown by. I don't know how anyone else in the group feels but for me any longer and I would begin to be ineffective. The exhaustion is beginning to set in deeply. We have been running at both ends and I have been surviving on a minimal of sleep as has everyone. I think the group is ready for some much needed sleep and some good nutrition. And not to be selfish but a good, long HOT shower. We didn't fully accomplish all we hoped to but then every day something new was added to our platter and I think no matter how long we stayed that would always be the situation. There is so much to be done and so few hands to do it. But I personally feel good about our trip. The team is still getting along well, we are still managing to laugh (Brian keeps telling us to eat everything on our plates because there are starving children in Africa!) and we have all come to learn a lot about ourselves, each other and our Lord. In the end I have come to make 11 new friends that I will always have this experience to share with. Each person on this team is special in his or her own way and I am very proud of what each person has brought to this journey. We were all a piece of the puzzle and together we made a picture.
Yesterday when we had a celebration for the kids we handed out the letters from the sponsors. As a team we ended up writing close to 60 letters because not all our sponsors had done so and we wanted to insure that every child got one. I was so shocked at the kids reaction. They stood in line for almost two hours to get their letter and then they proudly shared it with every one else. They even had us take pictures of the pictures you sent. It showed how much they value your letters. It is not the length that matters. It is simply that fact that you care enough to take a few minutes to write. So please do. You will put a smile on your childs face bigger than any you have ever seen. You should never again doubt the value of your written word because they will hang on every word. And the pictures you send her are priceless. They just love them.
Today we came back to Kampala via Jinja where we stopped for a little shopping and a great meal. I had something similar to a chicken fajita and Kari you would have loved it. Just the right amount of chicken with guacamole. It was great. And then we headed to the shops for some bargaining. I felt pretty good about my skills and got some really nice things to bring home as memories of the trip. Then we stopped at a place and spent about an hour in the midst of the Nile (yes, I said Nile) River. What an awesome sight was. Steve you would have loved the waves. There were people body surfing. I thought of you and Cody at the beach and what you would have done with those rapids! The irony was in the midst of all this beauty there was one guy washing his clothes in the river and another bathing, like it was no big deal. Here were all these Muzungo's in awe and they were carrying on like it was nothing. I can't even begin to explain the beauty. It was just phenomenal. Words don't even do it justice.
I will leave you now as my battery is about to die. I guess I will leave you with this thought. Africa is a nation of poverty but these children are so happy with anything they receive. I feel the same way about all the support I have received on this trip. I have truly been blessed by your support and your prayers. This trip has been an amazing experience and I have brought a piece of each of you with me. I have shared you with the kids. Thank you for being a part of this journey. It has truly been amazing and one I will never forget.
Yesterday when we had a celebration for the kids we handed out the letters from the sponsors. As a team we ended up writing close to 60 letters because not all our sponsors had done so and we wanted to insure that every child got one. I was so shocked at the kids reaction. They stood in line for almost two hours to get their letter and then they proudly shared it with every one else. They even had us take pictures of the pictures you sent. It showed how much they value your letters. It is not the length that matters. It is simply that fact that you care enough to take a few minutes to write. So please do. You will put a smile on your childs face bigger than any you have ever seen. You should never again doubt the value of your written word because they will hang on every word. And the pictures you send her are priceless. They just love them.
Today we came back to Kampala via Jinja where we stopped for a little shopping and a great meal. I had something similar to a chicken fajita and Kari you would have loved it. Just the right amount of chicken with guacamole. It was great. And then we headed to the shops for some bargaining. I felt pretty good about my skills and got some really nice things to bring home as memories of the trip. Then we stopped at a place and spent about an hour in the midst of the Nile (yes, I said Nile) River. What an awesome sight was. Steve you would have loved the waves. There were people body surfing. I thought of you and Cody at the beach and what you would have done with those rapids! The irony was in the midst of all this beauty there was one guy washing his clothes in the river and another bathing, like it was no big deal. Here were all these Muzungo's in awe and they were carrying on like it was nothing. I can't even begin to explain the beauty. It was just phenomenal. Words don't even do it justice.
I will leave you now as my battery is about to die. I guess I will leave you with this thought. Africa is a nation of poverty but these children are so happy with anything they receive. I feel the same way about all the support I have received on this trip. I have truly been blessed by your support and your prayers. This trip has been an amazing experience and I have brought a piece of each of you with me. I have shared you with the kids. Thank you for being a part of this journey. It has truly been amazing and one I will never forget.
Friday, July 2, 2010
It really is easier in a skirt...
It is 11:40 pm here and I am dying a slow death from physical exhaustion so there is no telling how much sense this will make or how long it will be. I hope I capture the day in a way that makes you understand what we experienced because it was pretty neat. We left Iganga around 9:30 this morning for Sipi Falls about a 3 hour drive away. This in itself was an adventure. There don't seem to be any road rules here so it is kind of each man for himself. I was the front seat passenger and when Susan got up to 120 kilometers on a two way road not much wider than our one way streets I decided it was time for a seat belt. On this very narrow road were cars coming the other way, pedestrians walking, and bikes trying to maneuver. It was amazing that everyone seemed to know who had the right of way and that no one got clipped or killed along the way. The horns do blare and that does mean business. And somehow, the people know what each horn honking means and they all react accordingly. For us Mozongo's it all looks like chaos! Half way to Sipi Falls, we stopped for a potty break at a gas station and once again the toilet was similar to ours but built directly into the ground. Hence, the name of the blog... it really is easier in a skirt!! And that is not only my opinion, it seemed to be the consensus of the all the ladies! When we were about 10 minutes away the skies opened up and we saw the first rains we'd seen since we'd gotten here. All I could think of was one chance to see the waterfalls and it is going to rain on us. But God was good, as usual. After we'd gotten settled in our rooms (all the girls are in one, except Jaimie and Kayla who opted to stay in a room by themselves) we settled in for lunch, which served probably the best potato salad ever! By then the rains had stopped and the sun was shining. And so off we went.
Ok, so you have to remember we are a group of varied ages; ranging from teenagers to me. The climb somewhat resembled Enchanted Rock (if you can visualize it covered in mud with a lot of greenery all around and the path about 12-15 inches wide. Periodically we'd see or hear a goat or a cow and even saw two pigs along the way. Now I am talking muddy with a capital M. At the beginning of the hike my goal was to stay clean; you know avoid the really wet muddy patches. About 30 minutes into the hike my goal was to breathe. I want you all to know I have all those muscles I've read about and I can now identify exactly where they are - especially the hamstring and the back muscles. I not only have them but I feel them! Fortunately, just as God sent Moses to lead his people out of Egypt and to the promised land, God sent me Moses! I'm pretty sure it wasn't the same guy but I welcomed him with open arms and never once doubted he was a gift from God and an answer to prayer. I'm not sure exactly where he came from but he took my hand and practically pulled me up the mountain. There was another little boy that appeared with him named Michael and between the two of them I made the trek up to the very top. When they asked me how old I was and I told them they started calling me Grandmother. I didn't care what they called me as long as they got me where the group was going. It was a steep hill (the young kids may tell you differently, but I'm telling you the truth) and it was so slippery there were several times I ended up on my butt! Not a pretty sight I'm sure. When Moses put two and two together and figured out that I wasn't going to make it all the way without some breaks he kept telling me "this is a great place for a picture". It didn't take long for him to become my new best friend! However, when the group found out he was calling me grandmother they thought that was hysterical. In my book he pretty much could have called me anything as long as he took my hand and got me to the top.
Now, here we are in Uganda and all we've seen so far in poverty and red dirt roads. We've seen dirty children, with no shoes and torn clothes. We've seen naked children and children who are sick and then we come to Sipi Falls. It is like a Utopia in the middle of a desert. It is absolutely beautiful. The view just took my breath away (figuratively and literally). It is awe inspiring. How in the middle of this ravished country there can be something so absolutely beautiful blows my mind. It just seems so out of place. And yet it is right here. The views are fantastic. The waterfalls are incredible and when we finally got to the falls at the very top and stepped down into the crevasse of the fall, it is an experience like none I've ever seen and because I had my camera and was afriad of what the water would do to it I hung back. Once everyone was done, Blake and Jaimie took me up and then took me to the crevasse and what an amazing sight. Walking there was very cold. The water had to be freezing but still they wouldn't let me stop. And when I finally got to the bottom it was more than I ever would have believed possible. It was absolutely incredible. I don't even have words to describe the beauty. It absolutely took my breath away.
Then we began the trek back down the mountain and though this was easier on the thighs it was so slippery it was quite an adventure. Again, Moses took my hand and never let go. By the time we got back to the bottom we were covered in mud from head to toe. The shower at the lodge was the best we'd had since we'd been here; good water pressure and hot water. It was terrific. I didn't ever want to get out!
The evening was spent eating dinner (where we all convened in our PJ's) and then just conversing and trying to recap the trip. We ended up each sharing something that we didn't like about ourselves and then a funny something we didn't like. I said that I was insecure in large groups and had a hard time in those situations. My funny comment was that I thought I had raised really good kids and here I was a "grandmother" and didn't even know it!! After that we spent quite awhile going around and sharing what we had really enjoyed about each other. it was really a special evening and the sharing was great. We all commented that our shared talents combined to make this a really successful trip and that we were all willing to fill and help wherever it was needed. The teens have really amazed all of us. They all have such a heart for the children and have jumped right in whenever needed. They have blown us away more than once and we are all so proud of them. I would be willing to claim each and every one of them as my own!
Today, being Saturday we got up and had breakfast and then headed out for home. As usual we were on Uganda time so we didn't get out as quickly as we hoped but we all really needed the break. We took a different route on the way home and it was so beautiful. I managed to take over 1000 pictures over the last 24 hours which really shouldn't surprise anyone. We had an opportunity to stop along the way and see Baboons right there in the middle of the street. We stopped and fed them bananas and they came almost right up to the window. Jaimie's comment was that she wondered if the African's came to Texas and took a special road trip to feed the deer! Somehow it doesn't seem as exciting! It was such a neat experience and the mom's and babies were just precious. The drive on the roads is always an experience in itself and we always thank God that we made it home in one piece. Cars pass at random and there is no rhyme or reason so it is like we are taking our lives in our hands at every turn. Tonight we went to Kymba's (Chimba's) house for dinner (he is a good friend of Jack's). We all sat outside under the stars and were served chicken, fish, meat (not sure what it was) potatoes, and about four other items. I stuck to the potatoes and I think I was the lucky one. Fortunately we ate in the dark because Blake, Josh and Brian were not very well behaved. Every time no one was looking they very discreetly passed their food to the neighborhood kids behind their backs. The kids were thrilled and so were they because that meant they didn't have to eat it! Every time Brian looked away Blake put his food on Brian's plate. It goes to show that men never ever grow up! They obviously weren't too discreet because the rest of us were cracking up!
Now we are home and trying to write letters to all the children who don't have letters from their sponsors. We want to make sure every child gets a letter. Tomorrow is our last day with the kids. We are going to get up and go to church (which we are all very excited about) and then go to Ibra's house (he works with Phil) to meet his family and then in the afternoon we are going to have a huge VBS party for the kids. We are planning to have a mini carnival for them with lots of stations and then have a big dinner with all the kids. I guess after that we will pack up and get ready to leave as Monday we will head for Jinja for some shopping before we leave on Tuesday. I cannot believe how exhausting and rewarding this trip has been. It has certainly changed me. I have made some excellent friendships and met some people halfway around the world I will never forget. I am heading to bed exhausted and worn out and feeling the beginning of not so good. I would appreciate your prayers that God will get me through the next three days without illness as there is so much still to do. I love each and every one of you.
P.S. Emily and Adam congrats on your engagement. I'm so happy for you both.
P.P.S. Paters'ville, every time I pass a post office I think of you!
P.P.S. Steve, Cody, Kari, Sam and John I love you all very, very much! I am so blessed to have you as family.
Ok, so you have to remember we are a group of varied ages; ranging from teenagers to me. The climb somewhat resembled Enchanted Rock (if you can visualize it covered in mud with a lot of greenery all around and the path about 12-15 inches wide. Periodically we'd see or hear a goat or a cow and even saw two pigs along the way. Now I am talking muddy with a capital M. At the beginning of the hike my goal was to stay clean; you know avoid the really wet muddy patches. About 30 minutes into the hike my goal was to breathe. I want you all to know I have all those muscles I've read about and I can now identify exactly where they are - especially the hamstring and the back muscles. I not only have them but I feel them! Fortunately, just as God sent Moses to lead his people out of Egypt and to the promised land, God sent me Moses! I'm pretty sure it wasn't the same guy but I welcomed him with open arms and never once doubted he was a gift from God and an answer to prayer. I'm not sure exactly where he came from but he took my hand and practically pulled me up the mountain. There was another little boy that appeared with him named Michael and between the two of them I made the trek up to the very top. When they asked me how old I was and I told them they started calling me Grandmother. I didn't care what they called me as long as they got me where the group was going. It was a steep hill (the young kids may tell you differently, but I'm telling you the truth) and it was so slippery there were several times I ended up on my butt! Not a pretty sight I'm sure. When Moses put two and two together and figured out that I wasn't going to make it all the way without some breaks he kept telling me "this is a great place for a picture". It didn't take long for him to become my new best friend! However, when the group found out he was calling me grandmother they thought that was hysterical. In my book he pretty much could have called me anything as long as he took my hand and got me to the top.
Now, here we are in Uganda and all we've seen so far in poverty and red dirt roads. We've seen dirty children, with no shoes and torn clothes. We've seen naked children and children who are sick and then we come to Sipi Falls. It is like a Utopia in the middle of a desert. It is absolutely beautiful. The view just took my breath away (figuratively and literally). It is awe inspiring. How in the middle of this ravished country there can be something so absolutely beautiful blows my mind. It just seems so out of place. And yet it is right here. The views are fantastic. The waterfalls are incredible and when we finally got to the falls at the very top and stepped down into the crevasse of the fall, it is an experience like none I've ever seen and because I had my camera and was afriad of what the water would do to it I hung back. Once everyone was done, Blake and Jaimie took me up and then took me to the crevasse and what an amazing sight. Walking there was very cold. The water had to be freezing but still they wouldn't let me stop. And when I finally got to the bottom it was more than I ever would have believed possible. It was absolutely incredible. I don't even have words to describe the beauty. It absolutely took my breath away.
Then we began the trek back down the mountain and though this was easier on the thighs it was so slippery it was quite an adventure. Again, Moses took my hand and never let go. By the time we got back to the bottom we were covered in mud from head to toe. The shower at the lodge was the best we'd had since we'd been here; good water pressure and hot water. It was terrific. I didn't ever want to get out!
The evening was spent eating dinner (where we all convened in our PJ's) and then just conversing and trying to recap the trip. We ended up each sharing something that we didn't like about ourselves and then a funny something we didn't like. I said that I was insecure in large groups and had a hard time in those situations. My funny comment was that I thought I had raised really good kids and here I was a "grandmother" and didn't even know it!! After that we spent quite awhile going around and sharing what we had really enjoyed about each other. it was really a special evening and the sharing was great. We all commented that our shared talents combined to make this a really successful trip and that we were all willing to fill and help wherever it was needed. The teens have really amazed all of us. They all have such a heart for the children and have jumped right in whenever needed. They have blown us away more than once and we are all so proud of them. I would be willing to claim each and every one of them as my own!
Today, being Saturday we got up and had breakfast and then headed out for home. As usual we were on Uganda time so we didn't get out as quickly as we hoped but we all really needed the break. We took a different route on the way home and it was so beautiful. I managed to take over 1000 pictures over the last 24 hours which really shouldn't surprise anyone. We had an opportunity to stop along the way and see Baboons right there in the middle of the street. We stopped and fed them bananas and they came almost right up to the window. Jaimie's comment was that she wondered if the African's came to Texas and took a special road trip to feed the deer! Somehow it doesn't seem as exciting! It was such a neat experience and the mom's and babies were just precious. The drive on the roads is always an experience in itself and we always thank God that we made it home in one piece. Cars pass at random and there is no rhyme or reason so it is like we are taking our lives in our hands at every turn. Tonight we went to Kymba's (Chimba's) house for dinner (he is a good friend of Jack's). We all sat outside under the stars and were served chicken, fish, meat (not sure what it was) potatoes, and about four other items. I stuck to the potatoes and I think I was the lucky one. Fortunately we ate in the dark because Blake, Josh and Brian were not very well behaved. Every time no one was looking they very discreetly passed their food to the neighborhood kids behind their backs. The kids were thrilled and so were they because that meant they didn't have to eat it! Every time Brian looked away Blake put his food on Brian's plate. It goes to show that men never ever grow up! They obviously weren't too discreet because the rest of us were cracking up!
Now we are home and trying to write letters to all the children who don't have letters from their sponsors. We want to make sure every child gets a letter. Tomorrow is our last day with the kids. We are going to get up and go to church (which we are all very excited about) and then go to Ibra's house (he works with Phil) to meet his family and then in the afternoon we are going to have a huge VBS party for the kids. We are planning to have a mini carnival for them with lots of stations and then have a big dinner with all the kids. I guess after that we will pack up and get ready to leave as Monday we will head for Jinja for some shopping before we leave on Tuesday. I cannot believe how exhausting and rewarding this trip has been. It has certainly changed me. I have made some excellent friendships and met some people halfway around the world I will never forget. I am heading to bed exhausted and worn out and feeling the beginning of not so good. I would appreciate your prayers that God will get me through the next three days without illness as there is so much still to do. I love each and every one of you.
P.S. Emily and Adam congrats on your engagement. I'm so happy for you both.
P.P.S. Paters'ville, every time I pass a post office I think of you!
P.P.S. Steve, Cody, Kari, Sam and John I love you all very, very much! I am so blessed to have you as family.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Not Prepared for Potato Picking...July 1, 2010
I came to Iganga with a lot of thoughts and ideas of what we might do and what might be expected. But nowhere in my wildest dreams did I think I might become a potato picker. And I am here to tell you, that if I had a day job, I wouldn't be giving it up any time soon! We went out this morning to see the farm. The first thing I want to explain is that the farm is NOT next to the orphanage, or the school as I thought it would be. It is a good distance away by truck. And then once you get there is is a good hike before you get to our land and our crops. I was under the assumption this was to be a quick trip (you'd think I'd be smarter than that by now) so I left our humble abode with no water. Instead we hiked to the crops and started to dig for potatoes. For those of you who have never done this before (which I'm guessing is just about everyone reading this blog) it is no easy task. Susan did it first and she made it look like no big deal. It reminded me of our cruise when Cody climbed the rock wall in about 5 seconds and I thought to myself smugly, "I can do that" and then got about three feet off the ground and thought I was going to die! So there we were. The women in our skirts (a visualization) pulling the plants back (with very strong roots) and digging away. Most of us had small short sticks to help with the digging. Unbeknownst to us Nicole was digging with her hands. When she finally got a stick her comment was, "Holy cow, it's much easier with a stick!". At that time roasting in the hot sun it was good comical relief. We squatted in the hot, hot sun for probably 1-1/2 to 2 hours digging for potatoes. The motivation... they were going to be fed to the kids. Then we loaded up all the potatoes and I threw about 50 into one bag only to lift it up and watch them all fall out of the big hole in the bottom. Now, keep in mind we then (the guys that is) then had to lug them down the hill back to the truck so they could be transported. I will never again look at a potato the same way in a grocery store. But then even though I hate to cook I will never look at my oven, refrigerator or dishwasher the same way either!
We then ate in the village, served by the local villagers in their courtyard so to speak. The interesting thing is they are so honored to feed their guests but they do not sit and eat with you. They put the food down and leave while we eat. They first brought out a big plastic container with water and a bar of soap so we could wash our hands. After digging in the dirt for so long it took many a washing to get partially clean. And again, the children there were just so excited to get their picture taken and I was only too happy to comply. Once we got home, many hours and very thirsty from when we started, we guzzled our water (yes, Steve and Kari I did say water) and headed out to the boys house for VBS. I have found a little boy named Daniel who has become my right hand man with the picture department. Today I finally handed over my camera and told him to go for broke. He has learned to take pictures from just below the chest up (including the head) and to center the subject. He is a great pupil and if he had the chance he would become a great photographer one day. The VBS team today taught a lesson which included the kids making a bracelet and it went incredibly well. I was particularly surprised by how well everyone did for themselves. Even the youngest kids (I'm talking 4-5 year olds) could string these little beads onto a piece of yarn for their necklace. I kept thinking about our kids and how at that age we would automatically do it for them. I mean these were little beads. It just blew me away.
I guess you can all figure that by now we were all pretty stinky. We should have come home and showered and called it a day but there is a mission team here from Boerne (the town right next door to us) so we decided to meet them at their hotel for dinner and get a chance to meet one another. It was an interesting restaurant - one lonely lightbulb lit the place. And guess what we had for dinner! Talapia and chips. Kari and Sam you two would not survive here. But Cody and John you'd be loving it! I had a chance to go up to the second floor (pretty much the tallest building here) and get some pictures of the skyline. By 8:45 had there been soup we would have fallen asleep in it, so we pretty much said goodbye and came home. I had the chance to ride alone with Susan and her daughter Faith and that was great. I had a chance to talk with her one on one and she is such an amazing woman. I cannot believe how much she is able to pack into a single day and she does NOT get weekends off. She has such a heart for these children and believe me when she talks they listen. Her daughter, who is seven, will be joining us at Sipi Falls tomorrow.
I love each of you and cannot believe our time with the children is almost over. They have touched my heart in ways I did not think was possible. This is a country like none I've ever seen and I will be taking a huge piece of it home with me. Again, I want to thank you for your contributions to this trip. They have made such a difference and the things we have brought were all the right things. Without you it wouldn't have been possible. Until later....
We then ate in the village, served by the local villagers in their courtyard so to speak. The interesting thing is they are so honored to feed their guests but they do not sit and eat with you. They put the food down and leave while we eat. They first brought out a big plastic container with water and a bar of soap so we could wash our hands. After digging in the dirt for so long it took many a washing to get partially clean. And again, the children there were just so excited to get their picture taken and I was only too happy to comply. Once we got home, many hours and very thirsty from when we started, we guzzled our water (yes, Steve and Kari I did say water) and headed out to the boys house for VBS. I have found a little boy named Daniel who has become my right hand man with the picture department. Today I finally handed over my camera and told him to go for broke. He has learned to take pictures from just below the chest up (including the head) and to center the subject. He is a great pupil and if he had the chance he would become a great photographer one day. The VBS team today taught a lesson which included the kids making a bracelet and it went incredibly well. I was particularly surprised by how well everyone did for themselves. Even the youngest kids (I'm talking 4-5 year olds) could string these little beads onto a piece of yarn for their necklace. I kept thinking about our kids and how at that age we would automatically do it for them. I mean these were little beads. It just blew me away.
I guess you can all figure that by now we were all pretty stinky. We should have come home and showered and called it a day but there is a mission team here from Boerne (the town right next door to us) so we decided to meet them at their hotel for dinner and get a chance to meet one another. It was an interesting restaurant - one lonely lightbulb lit the place. And guess what we had for dinner! Talapia and chips. Kari and Sam you two would not survive here. But Cody and John you'd be loving it! I had a chance to go up to the second floor (pretty much the tallest building here) and get some pictures of the skyline. By 8:45 had there been soup we would have fallen asleep in it, so we pretty much said goodbye and came home. I had the chance to ride alone with Susan and her daughter Faith and that was great. I had a chance to talk with her one on one and she is such an amazing woman. I cannot believe how much she is able to pack into a single day and she does NOT get weekends off. She has such a heart for these children and believe me when she talks they listen. Her daughter, who is seven, will be joining us at Sipi Falls tomorrow.
I love each of you and cannot believe our time with the children is almost over. They have touched my heart in ways I did not think was possible. This is a country like none I've ever seen and I will be taking a huge piece of it home with me. Again, I want to thank you for your contributions to this trip. They have made such a difference and the things we have brought were all the right things. Without you it wouldn't have been possible. Until later....
The Illness Finally Hit... June 30th
Ok health wise it wasn't the best of days. But experience wise it was incredible. I knew upon waking that food and I were not going to be on friendly terms for the day. Although I tried at breakfast (the cuisine was french toast - a little hard to resist) and knew within minutes that it was a poor decision. The rest of the day I survived on water - and not a lot of that!! Nothing sounded enticing (at least until dinner when I tried again - and it was a little more successful. But as I said the rest of the day was amazing.
I left the confines of Phil's house with Amanda and our cameras early and headed out to take a walk around the neighborhood. I've always felt the only way to see the culture is to walk through it. We did manage to see some of the culture and we were called Muzungu everywhere we went. I have yet to see a paved road anywhere in Casa Blanca (the area we are in) and the streets are all red clay). After about 45 minutes of wandering we were picked up by Susan and headed to the market so we could hit the pharmacy with Tamara. That was another experience. The market was filled with every kind of trinket you could imagine. I was in photo heaven. Vendors and children were everywhere. And again, every child and adult is vying to get their picture taken.
Later in the day we went to a soccer match between New Grace School and another school. We were moving in Uganda time and by the time we got to the field the game was almost over. It was an interesting contrast in that some of the players were decked out in full gear; uniform, shin guards, socks and shoes, while others were in their uniforms and playing barefoot. When the game was over and the other team one they celebrated like no other celebration I had ever seen. The celebration seemed to go on forever. The whole team and their fans gathered up tree limbs and danced in the field, and then followed us as we walked away for as long as we stayed in sight. It was the longest version of "Nanny Nanny Boo Boo" I had ever seen! After the game which was in a different neighborhood we decided to walk home. What no one told me was that this was about a five mile trek. And having walked through the different villages it is no wonder the disease rate is so high. Todays lesson for me was that these people have so little and yet they have such a feeling of community. Unlike us who close and lock our doors these people have no doors (for the most part to close) so they all meet outside and commune. The other thing that has amazed me is how independent the children are. Yesterday we were led on our 5 mile hike by the children. They led us from the soccer field back to Phil's house and we never had a doubt they would get us there. They were instructing US how to cross the street and protecting us from the traffic. It was very humbling. By last night, I think we all broke. The reality of the conditions here and the fact that this is the reality for these children finally hit home. We are all loving being here and it is going to be very, very hard for each of us to leave. It will be so discouraging knowing that these kids will be left behind and for the most part their lifestyles will never change. It makes me really wonder why I was born where I was and why these kids were born here. During the journey I was holding two children's hands. The little boy on my right was ten years old and he was full of wisdom. He informed me what everything was and kept telling me the english word and the Ugandan word and would have me repeat after him. Then he would laugh at my accent. At one point I got a pebble (and I am talking microscopic) in my sandal and started limping. I stopped and when I removed this rock (which felt like a boulder) I was embarrassed because most of the children were making this walk barefoot. They thought it was hysterical. I just thought it hurt! So though I don't usually get much exercise I want you to know I made this walk and made it smiling!
Then for something new and different we had fish (Talapia) and chips! I am not knocking it - the fish is awesome! I am not complaining!! But by the end of dinner I was exhausted. We did a devotional where Liz and I both shared and then I was off to bed with the start of a migraine. I was in bed and probably asleep by 10:30! I think I needed it and I woke up feeling much better. And off for another day filled with adventure...
I left the confines of Phil's house with Amanda and our cameras early and headed out to take a walk around the neighborhood. I've always felt the only way to see the culture is to walk through it. We did manage to see some of the culture and we were called Muzungu everywhere we went. I have yet to see a paved road anywhere in Casa Blanca (the area we are in) and the streets are all red clay). After about 45 minutes of wandering we were picked up by Susan and headed to the market so we could hit the pharmacy with Tamara. That was another experience. The market was filled with every kind of trinket you could imagine. I was in photo heaven. Vendors and children were everywhere. And again, every child and adult is vying to get their picture taken.
Later in the day we went to a soccer match between New Grace School and another school. We were moving in Uganda time and by the time we got to the field the game was almost over. It was an interesting contrast in that some of the players were decked out in full gear; uniform, shin guards, socks and shoes, while others were in their uniforms and playing barefoot. When the game was over and the other team one they celebrated like no other celebration I had ever seen. The celebration seemed to go on forever. The whole team and their fans gathered up tree limbs and danced in the field, and then followed us as we walked away for as long as we stayed in sight. It was the longest version of "Nanny Nanny Boo Boo" I had ever seen! After the game which was in a different neighborhood we decided to walk home. What no one told me was that this was about a five mile trek. And having walked through the different villages it is no wonder the disease rate is so high. Todays lesson for me was that these people have so little and yet they have such a feeling of community. Unlike us who close and lock our doors these people have no doors (for the most part to close) so they all meet outside and commune. The other thing that has amazed me is how independent the children are. Yesterday we were led on our 5 mile hike by the children. They led us from the soccer field back to Phil's house and we never had a doubt they would get us there. They were instructing US how to cross the street and protecting us from the traffic. It was very humbling. By last night, I think we all broke. The reality of the conditions here and the fact that this is the reality for these children finally hit home. We are all loving being here and it is going to be very, very hard for each of us to leave. It will be so discouraging knowing that these kids will be left behind and for the most part their lifestyles will never change. It makes me really wonder why I was born where I was and why these kids were born here. During the journey I was holding two children's hands. The little boy on my right was ten years old and he was full of wisdom. He informed me what everything was and kept telling me the english word and the Ugandan word and would have me repeat after him. Then he would laugh at my accent. At one point I got a pebble (and I am talking microscopic) in my sandal and started limping. I stopped and when I removed this rock (which felt like a boulder) I was embarrassed because most of the children were making this walk barefoot. They thought it was hysterical. I just thought it hurt! So though I don't usually get much exercise I want you to know I made this walk and made it smiling!
Then for something new and different we had fish (Talapia) and chips! I am not knocking it - the fish is awesome! I am not complaining!! But by the end of dinner I was exhausted. We did a devotional where Liz and I both shared and then I was off to bed with the start of a migraine. I was in bed and probably asleep by 10:30! I think I needed it and I woke up feeling much better. And off for another day filled with adventure...
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