I intended to post this last night and we even had power...but Phil ran out of Internet minutes...So here it is.
As I mentioned in this morning’s blog Susan was sick and so I didn’t know what the day would hold in store for us. Well for starters three separate power outages. Even for us that is a record! So far we’ve had two more occasions to be without power than our entire two-week visit last year… Liz prayed for adventure and her prayers have been answered in oh, so many ways.
When the rain finally stopped, Liz and I decided to take a walk around the area. Actually, it was almost like taking a swim. The roads were so muddy that we came home inches taller than when we left! And so I grabbed my camera and off we went. Liz, by the way takes her job of keeping me safe very seriously. But then when I have a camera in my hands I tend to become very single minded, unaware of things like traffic! And so every few feet I would hear a not so quiet voice telling me to get out of the street!! We started the picture taking across the street with the house with the water well. The kids are just as cute as last year and just as willing to pose. As we wandered down Phil’s road the kids came out of the woodwork. And they were all willing and wanting their pictures taken and then of course they wanted to see what they looked like. And so the 100 yards down the street took us about forever. As we rounded the corner we decided to turn right instead of left like last year and that direction produced even more kids. Next thing I knew we were two Mzungu’s with a whole village of African children following behind us, giggling and laughing. One little boy in particular was as cute as could be. But every time the camera came out he ran and hid behind someone else. Finally, I captured his smile! Now you have to envision us with about 15 children, most without shoes, walking down muddy, muddy streets. Here Liz and I are trying are best to avoid the puddles and they are walking right through them. By the time we turned around to head home they were holding our hands and we had made a new group of friends. These kids probably ranged in age from 5-7 and their mothers had absolutely no concern that these white people they had never seen before were taking their children out of their sight. It was kind of refreshing to experience that kind of trust. When we came back and thanked them they waived at us and smiled. What a difference in culture. I can’t begin to imagine at that age letting my child out of my sight much less than wander off with someone I didn’t know.
It brings me back to community. It is so different here. I noticed it last year and again this year. Because there is no power in most houses everything is done outside. Therefore neighbors know each other. Women sit in the front of their homes and talk with one another while tending to their chores and children. People are everywhere. You can’t turn your head without seeing someone.
We returned because the rains returned…AGAIN. Now I am listening to the crickets and it is very reminiscent of home. But shortly after getting back a group of our girls came over. The intent was to talk to them two by two and find out about them and update our records. Well that didn’t turn out so well. We did talk two by two but only got through the first two girls. And that took a full 2-1/2 hours. It was great getting to spend the time with them and find out more than their favorite activity and color. We do have some amazing young women in our group. Afterwards I went outside with the other girls and took some pictures. And that was a great experience. As all kids they went crazy. The first few pictures were serious but then they let loose. We have some real hams in our group and they were not afraid to show it. We also might have some future models. At any rate they loved taking the pictures and had nothing but smiles to show for it. I loved the interaction and we had a few moments of dancing. For those of you wondering, yes, they have more rhythm (but not by much!).
Tonight Phil, Liz and I went through all the pictures and put names to each photo. For Liz and I it was like playing concentration which we’ve both decided we are not very good at. Though I must say, that if we played she would beat me by a mile! Tomorrow is again undecided since Susan is still sick. We plan to talk with more of the kids and see where that leads. Conversation with them is always good.
Please continue to pray that we seek God’s timing and words. I realized today that though “my” shoe plan was not working as I thought it would, spending time with the kids here at Phil’s house was a much better plan. We are not worried about getting run over for one, we have no concerns of people running up to us and distracting us, and so we can carry on an uninterrupted conversation. The two we had today went very well and we learned a great deal about the girls. Hopefully the more we do the better we will get and the more relaxing they will become. And it is really good to have someone around who speaks both languages! Speaking only one does NOT work so well!!!
Until I write again, I love you all.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Friday, October 14, 2011
October 14, 2011 RAIN AND REFLECTION
Last night we went to bed and were able to sleep to the amazing sound of rain. Today we woke up to the same. It has been raining heavily for the past 15 hours and for someone who hasn't heard the sound much in the past six months it is heavenly. It kept the rooster from crowing early this morning and we can hear the birds in the distance. It is a very peaceful and still morning! The downside is I'm not sure we will get to do much with the kiddos today. I certainly don't want to take them to the market to look for shoes. I don't want them to get soaked (and then sick) and the grounds were a muddy mess yesterday, I can only imagine what they will look like today! The weather is significantly cooler. We've dropped from the high 80's to 71 and as can be expected I'm wrapped up in my blanket. It's 11 am here and Liz and I are the only things moving. So who knows where this day will lead us...
As I got in bed last night my brain would not turn off. I couldn't help thinking about all the differences between where we live and here. Here, in Uganda, the poverty is rampant, although in their eyes I'm not sure they see it that way. This is just the way they live and have always lived. On our drive back from the airport we stopped by to visit Kenneth who last year lived with Phil (Susan's brother) and helped with the kids. Kenneth is now at University and studying to be a social worker. Needless to say, I am so proud of him. He is a great guy and I am so glad to see him going to school. As I said we stopped at his "home" to visit. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't what I saw. We drove into an area where the road was almost impassable. Narrow, dirt, and filled with massive potholes. They looked very much like our typical storage unit with metal doors. I think his room was maybe 10x10. It had cement walls and ceiling, one very high window and NO ventilation. Although when there was power (which we didn't have when we first arrived) he does have electricity. His bed is on one side of the room with a small table and a few chairs. His clothes hang on hooks on the wall. He does have a computer (an old one of Phil's and of course a cell phone (I think everyone here in Iganga has a cell phone). His school is close by so he walks to his classes of which he is taking seven. As I read back on this it doesn't sound all bad but it was. The paths between the houses were all mud. Families with children were living in these same units, goats were milling around and there were children playing. Nothing appeared sanitary. And then I had to stop and realize that Kenneth was proud to bring us into his home. He went to the store and bought us all drinks to welcome us. And it was great to see him. He still wears that wonderful smile.
Then as we drove to Iganga I was reminded that there really are no road rules. There is an occasional sign reminding you to stay "Left" but other than that nothing. And so you drive at your own risk. Yet, the people are friendly drivers. There doesn't appear to be any road rage. There is a great deal of courtesy on the roads. If someone passes you and a truck is headed in their direction you kindly slow down and let them in. It is not unusual for three or four cars to pass at once on a hill. Cars honk at motorcycles and bicycles to let them know they are there so no one gets hurt. I said it was a courteous country I didn't mention anything about it being quiet. And so everything moves pretty smoothly which is surprising considering cars are swerving left and right to avoid potholes. Again, once you leave the major cities of Kampala and Entebbe all the roads are red dirt.
We've been to the market (which is downtown Iganga) twice now. The wares they sell for the most part are sold on the street. There are a few stores but most people set up shop on the ground. They sell fruits and vegetables, platanos (big, green bananas), meats, shoes (mostly sandals), bar-b-qued corn, and whatever else they have. The shops from what I could see mostly sell cell phones and minutes and clothing, although a lot of the clothing is laid out on the ground as well. As you walk deep into the market (behind the street) the aisles of passage are narrow and muddy and the vendors are right on top of each other. In fact, as an outsider I had no idea that part of the market even existed. You really can't see it from the street. The way of life is so different from anything we are use to. And yet, it is their way of life. I guess for me I keep coming back to the same question and that is why am I so blessed. And yet, I'm not sure they don't see themselves the same way and ask the same question.
LIz and I both feel that the atmosphere this year is much more subdued. We are not seeing the same smiles on the faces of the kids. Even the first day when we get out of the car we were greeted warmly by some of the kids but others held back. We are not sure why the change but it is something we are going to be looking into. It may just be that we are not as large a group and therefore not as overwhelming. It may also be that they have major exams next week that for some last the whole month. Good thing I didn't have such intense exams or I'd still be working my way through high school! Not sure what it is though we both sensed it! There is just a different feel.
This has been a much rougher trip as far as amenities go. We've lost our power every day, taken cold showers (I know at least we have water to do such things... especially Liz (who I can hear yelping from my bed every morning!), And let me share that she yelps loud! Oh, to be a fly on that wall. I can just see her jumping up and down as the cold water pelts her head. She keeps telling me she can hardly breathe through the shivering! I must say that being the sympathetic person I am, I lie in bed laughing hysterically. Until it's my turn...Then I can see the glee in Liz's eye as she watches me take the death walk...
And then there are the mosquito nets... I spent a lot of time last night trying to figure out why we are using them. First of all, we spend all day at the mercy of the mosquitos. We don't walk around with a net around us. And the nets have holes. So what is the point. That is not to say we are not using them. We are semi-rule followers so we wrap them around our beds and turn off the lights. Personally, I feel a little like I am sleeping in a tomb. The net is so close to my head I feel I am breathing it in and out. And if nothing else they are providing a lot of humorous moments. I've decided that Liz is a lot like my daughter. Laughs easily, talks a lot, and harasses me even more. Guess that is why I love her so much!
I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who came to the airport to send us off. I am sorry for the complications with the luggage as I didn't get to spend as much time with you all as I hoped to. I also very much appreciate the letters from each of you who wrote them. They filled my heart with so much happiness. The thing that amazed me the most was those of you who called me "brave" for coming. I have to say that that word never once entered my mind. Passionate for the people - yes. Brave - no! Being brave has nothing to do with this trip because there is nothing to be brave about. We did meet two gentlemen on the plane that were headed to New Guinea to a remote area that has never been visited by missionaries before. One of the men had just returned from Pakistan where he had to move safe houses four or five times a day for safety reasons. When he spoke he had to have police with machine guns protecting him. Now that takes a brave person. What Liz and I are doing does NOT take bravery. It does take passion, but everyone is passionate about something. Any of you who have children know how loving kids can be. So loving on them is not hard. It is a great privilege to be here and give to them. Because we really take home much more than we will ever be able to give.
So now we know that today will bring little to do. Phil is sick. Susan is suffering from Typhoid and is currently on an IV drip. She will be coming here for rounds two and three. The rain has finally stopped (at least for the present time) so I am about to head out and wander the neighborhood to take pictures.
Janet, your daughter is amazing. She has such a huge heart and has been a tremendous help to me (when she's not laughing at me). It's good to travel with someone so young who can help with computers and still has a memory!
To my family I love you all very much and miss you. Steve-o, give Maddie a big scrunch behind the ears. May God bless you all.
As I got in bed last night my brain would not turn off. I couldn't help thinking about all the differences between where we live and here. Here, in Uganda, the poverty is rampant, although in their eyes I'm not sure they see it that way. This is just the way they live and have always lived. On our drive back from the airport we stopped by to visit Kenneth who last year lived with Phil (Susan's brother) and helped with the kids. Kenneth is now at University and studying to be a social worker. Needless to say, I am so proud of him. He is a great guy and I am so glad to see him going to school. As I said we stopped at his "home" to visit. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't what I saw. We drove into an area where the road was almost impassable. Narrow, dirt, and filled with massive potholes. They looked very much like our typical storage unit with metal doors. I think his room was maybe 10x10. It had cement walls and ceiling, one very high window and NO ventilation. Although when there was power (which we didn't have when we first arrived) he does have electricity. His bed is on one side of the room with a small table and a few chairs. His clothes hang on hooks on the wall. He does have a computer (an old one of Phil's and of course a cell phone (I think everyone here in Iganga has a cell phone). His school is close by so he walks to his classes of which he is taking seven. As I read back on this it doesn't sound all bad but it was. The paths between the houses were all mud. Families with children were living in these same units, goats were milling around and there were children playing. Nothing appeared sanitary. And then I had to stop and realize that Kenneth was proud to bring us into his home. He went to the store and bought us all drinks to welcome us. And it was great to see him. He still wears that wonderful smile.
Then as we drove to Iganga I was reminded that there really are no road rules. There is an occasional sign reminding you to stay "Left" but other than that nothing. And so you drive at your own risk. Yet, the people are friendly drivers. There doesn't appear to be any road rage. There is a great deal of courtesy on the roads. If someone passes you and a truck is headed in their direction you kindly slow down and let them in. It is not unusual for three or four cars to pass at once on a hill. Cars honk at motorcycles and bicycles to let them know they are there so no one gets hurt. I said it was a courteous country I didn't mention anything about it being quiet. And so everything moves pretty smoothly which is surprising considering cars are swerving left and right to avoid potholes. Again, once you leave the major cities of Kampala and Entebbe all the roads are red dirt.
We've been to the market (which is downtown Iganga) twice now. The wares they sell for the most part are sold on the street. There are a few stores but most people set up shop on the ground. They sell fruits and vegetables, platanos (big, green bananas), meats, shoes (mostly sandals), bar-b-qued corn, and whatever else they have. The shops from what I could see mostly sell cell phones and minutes and clothing, although a lot of the clothing is laid out on the ground as well. As you walk deep into the market (behind the street) the aisles of passage are narrow and muddy and the vendors are right on top of each other. In fact, as an outsider I had no idea that part of the market even existed. You really can't see it from the street. The way of life is so different from anything we are use to. And yet, it is their way of life. I guess for me I keep coming back to the same question and that is why am I so blessed. And yet, I'm not sure they don't see themselves the same way and ask the same question.
LIz and I both feel that the atmosphere this year is much more subdued. We are not seeing the same smiles on the faces of the kids. Even the first day when we get out of the car we were greeted warmly by some of the kids but others held back. We are not sure why the change but it is something we are going to be looking into. It may just be that we are not as large a group and therefore not as overwhelming. It may also be that they have major exams next week that for some last the whole month. Good thing I didn't have such intense exams or I'd still be working my way through high school! Not sure what it is though we both sensed it! There is just a different feel.
This has been a much rougher trip as far as amenities go. We've lost our power every day, taken cold showers (I know at least we have water to do such things... especially Liz (who I can hear yelping from my bed every morning!), And let me share that she yelps loud! Oh, to be a fly on that wall. I can just see her jumping up and down as the cold water pelts her head. She keeps telling me she can hardly breathe through the shivering! I must say that being the sympathetic person I am, I lie in bed laughing hysterically. Until it's my turn...Then I can see the glee in Liz's eye as she watches me take the death walk...
And then there are the mosquito nets... I spent a lot of time last night trying to figure out why we are using them. First of all, we spend all day at the mercy of the mosquitos. We don't walk around with a net around us. And the nets have holes. So what is the point. That is not to say we are not using them. We are semi-rule followers so we wrap them around our beds and turn off the lights. Personally, I feel a little like I am sleeping in a tomb. The net is so close to my head I feel I am breathing it in and out. And if nothing else they are providing a lot of humorous moments. I've decided that Liz is a lot like my daughter. Laughs easily, talks a lot, and harasses me even more. Guess that is why I love her so much!
I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who came to the airport to send us off. I am sorry for the complications with the luggage as I didn't get to spend as much time with you all as I hoped to. I also very much appreciate the letters from each of you who wrote them. They filled my heart with so much happiness. The thing that amazed me the most was those of you who called me "brave" for coming. I have to say that that word never once entered my mind. Passionate for the people - yes. Brave - no! Being brave has nothing to do with this trip because there is nothing to be brave about. We did meet two gentlemen on the plane that were headed to New Guinea to a remote area that has never been visited by missionaries before. One of the men had just returned from Pakistan where he had to move safe houses four or five times a day for safety reasons. When he spoke he had to have police with machine guns protecting him. Now that takes a brave person. What Liz and I are doing does NOT take bravery. It does take passion, but everyone is passionate about something. Any of you who have children know how loving kids can be. So loving on them is not hard. It is a great privilege to be here and give to them. Because we really take home much more than we will ever be able to give.
So now we know that today will bring little to do. Phil is sick. Susan is suffering from Typhoid and is currently on an IV drip. She will be coming here for rounds two and three. The rain has finally stopped (at least for the present time) so I am about to head out and wander the neighborhood to take pictures.
Janet, your daughter is amazing. She has such a huge heart and has been a tremendous help to me (when she's not laughing at me). It's good to travel with someone so young who can help with computers and still has a memory!
To my family I love you all very much and miss you. Steve-o, give Maddie a big scrunch behind the ears. May God bless you all.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
October 13, 2011 Money, Phone, Shoes, and No Power…
As I sit to write this for the second night in a row we are without power. Had power all day long while it was light outside but now that it’s dark – well, what can I say? The day started early – the action starts about 6 around here though I refused to get vertical until at least 8! And then I was only moving as far as the shower only to find we had no hot water. Just gotta love God's sense of humor!! Once we got ourselves moving we headed to the market place to exchange some money (the wire transfer that we started almost two weeks ago has not yet arrived) so we could get a sim card for a phone I brought with me and begin buying the shoes for the kids. Now here is where expectation and reality really differed. For starters I thought the money exchange would take place in a respectable place of business…something similar to a bank! I could not have been more wrong! As we drove down the street Susan suddenly stopped the car. There was nothing close to us remotely resembling a building. Open market yes. Buildings…No! Needless to say, I was a little confused. With that she asked me for my money just as a man walked up to the car with a wad of shillings in his hand. He took my dollars and I got his shillings. Not quite what I was expecting when I mentioned I wanted to exchange my money but then I failed to ask specifics. Little by little I am learning the Ugandan way. Mostly I am learning ignorance is bliss! Next adventure Sim card.
Again, she stopped the car (there are no parking spaces, but then there don’t seem to be any real roads either) and said she would handle it. So off she went and came back with the card, and 20,000 shillings worth of time. Now I was cooking in Crisco. I could phone home! And so I did. I called Steve and said howdy just because I could.
We then went to the kid’s home. Jack, the fence around the house looks really nice, but then you know that from previous pictures. I didn’t really get a chance to look around the grounds because it poured last night and this morning and the grounds were super muddy. We took five boys first to the market to buy shoes. Once again my idea and perception were greatly different than reality. We did not have the opportunity to walk to the market. Susan went with us and because of her recent pregnancy and illnesses she is not able to make that walk. So we drove. The second shocker was that the shoes we were buying were not new – they were used! Never in my wildest dreams did I think we would be doing that! But according to Phil and Susan the new shoes are not made as well and they are way to expensive to purchase. I have to say the kids enjoyed the process and they were really appreciative of the shoes. Jen, whereas most of the children found their shoes within minutes, Moses must have looked and re-looked several times before he finally made a decision! We had to trek through the mud to get there but no one really seemed to mind. When we got back to the house the kids all thanked us. We made sure they all understood the shoes were from their sponsors or from family and friends of mine. So thanks again everyone who participated for your hearts. You did indeed make their day.
We then took a group of five girls. Four of the girls picked out black school shoes. The fifth picked out tennis shoes. I have to say she stole my heart. I was so proud of her for not following the crowd. Besides for those of you who know me well, you have to know I love anyone who chooses tennis shoes over dress shoes any day of the week!
We then came back to the house for a while until Susan announced that Keith was crying and she had to go feed him (she is still nursing). So off we went to Scovias. While Susan nursed we sat and watched Scovia make a mat. What an experience. She was telling us it takes her about two weeks to make one from start to finish. She was sitting outside on the ground doing this while cooking dinner in the pots next to her. We then went to the market place again to actually do some shopping. I must say, I am again so thankful for HEB! I hate shopping there, I can only imagine how much I would hate shopping here. The market place extends way behind the street. We traipsed deep into the market which was filled with lots of vegetable stands, potato, onions, meats, etc. The meat stands were filled with raw meat covered with flies. As you told the individual what you wanted they would cut your order right there – flies beware! Again, thankful for HEB! And everywhere you looked there were children. The ground was nothing but mud (we are currently in rainy season as evidenced by the pouring rain outside) and so we attempted to avoid the puddles as we walked through. I took my camera (duh) and took a lot of pictures though I was warned by Liz not to take pictures of anyone holding a knife (thus no pictures of the meat stands) and definitely no pictures of police. It seems both of those frown upon being recorded for posterity. Liz was a little grumpy about this and even said she would claim she’d never seen me before if I defied her wishes (a little hard to do being as we are the only two white women in the whole town).
When we got back to the house Phiona came in. Phiona, for those of you who don’t know, is in the process of being adopted by a couple who came to Uganda in July, Jacque and Mike. So we decided to call them and let her speak to them. She is the cutest little thing and she was so excited to hear their voices. She just grinned the whole time. They sent her a photo album with pictures of the three of them and while sitting on my lap she must have looked through the book at least five times. She kept identifying them and then pointing at herself and telling me that was her. She was so excited to have the pictures. She just lit up hearing their voices. And in the meantime while waiting for the adoption to be finalized she just loves Liz. She is like her third appendage.
We then had a chance to talk with all the kids and tell them why we are here. The one question they asked was if all their sponsors would be coming to Africa to see them. We tried to explain that most would be unable to do so but that did not mean you all did not care for them and think about them often. They were upset that not more sponsors could come but were so happy to know they were in your thoughts. They were excited we would be here for a whole month and that we hoped to spend a lot of time with them. So now as my computer is about to die (only 10% more power) I will let bid you all goodnight. Thanks again for your support. Who knows what tomorrow will bring but we are praying for power!
The power came back on - Hallelujah! Phil and Liz were playing Skip-Bo (Liz won!) and I was reading my Kindle by flashlight. We tried to make the Instant Ice Tea I brought and the overall consensus is that the stuff is awful. We are all sticking to water. I offered to leave it with Phil and he even assured me it would still be here next year! Though the tea was awful we did have some really good laughs over how bad it was! So all was not lost.
It's now 11:45 and we are headed to bed. We really are becoming Lucy and Ethel. That might be the theme of this trip...
Love you all.
Again, she stopped the car (there are no parking spaces, but then there don’t seem to be any real roads either) and said she would handle it. So off she went and came back with the card, and 20,000 shillings worth of time. Now I was cooking in Crisco. I could phone home! And so I did. I called Steve and said howdy just because I could.
We then went to the kid’s home. Jack, the fence around the house looks really nice, but then you know that from previous pictures. I didn’t really get a chance to look around the grounds because it poured last night and this morning and the grounds were super muddy. We took five boys first to the market to buy shoes. Once again my idea and perception were greatly different than reality. We did not have the opportunity to walk to the market. Susan went with us and because of her recent pregnancy and illnesses she is not able to make that walk. So we drove. The second shocker was that the shoes we were buying were not new – they were used! Never in my wildest dreams did I think we would be doing that! But according to Phil and Susan the new shoes are not made as well and they are way to expensive to purchase. I have to say the kids enjoyed the process and they were really appreciative of the shoes. Jen, whereas most of the children found their shoes within minutes, Moses must have looked and re-looked several times before he finally made a decision! We had to trek through the mud to get there but no one really seemed to mind. When we got back to the house the kids all thanked us. We made sure they all understood the shoes were from their sponsors or from family and friends of mine. So thanks again everyone who participated for your hearts. You did indeed make their day.
We then took a group of five girls. Four of the girls picked out black school shoes. The fifth picked out tennis shoes. I have to say she stole my heart. I was so proud of her for not following the crowd. Besides for those of you who know me well, you have to know I love anyone who chooses tennis shoes over dress shoes any day of the week!
We then came back to the house for a while until Susan announced that Keith was crying and she had to go feed him (she is still nursing). So off we went to Scovias. While Susan nursed we sat and watched Scovia make a mat. What an experience. She was telling us it takes her about two weeks to make one from start to finish. She was sitting outside on the ground doing this while cooking dinner in the pots next to her. We then went to the market place again to actually do some shopping. I must say, I am again so thankful for HEB! I hate shopping there, I can only imagine how much I would hate shopping here. The market place extends way behind the street. We traipsed deep into the market which was filled with lots of vegetable stands, potato, onions, meats, etc. The meat stands were filled with raw meat covered with flies. As you told the individual what you wanted they would cut your order right there – flies beware! Again, thankful for HEB! And everywhere you looked there were children. The ground was nothing but mud (we are currently in rainy season as evidenced by the pouring rain outside) and so we attempted to avoid the puddles as we walked through. I took my camera (duh) and took a lot of pictures though I was warned by Liz not to take pictures of anyone holding a knife (thus no pictures of the meat stands) and definitely no pictures of police. It seems both of those frown upon being recorded for posterity. Liz was a little grumpy about this and even said she would claim she’d never seen me before if I defied her wishes (a little hard to do being as we are the only two white women in the whole town).
When we got back to the house Phiona came in. Phiona, for those of you who don’t know, is in the process of being adopted by a couple who came to Uganda in July, Jacque and Mike. So we decided to call them and let her speak to them. She is the cutest little thing and she was so excited to hear their voices. She just grinned the whole time. They sent her a photo album with pictures of the three of them and while sitting on my lap she must have looked through the book at least five times. She kept identifying them and then pointing at herself and telling me that was her. She was so excited to have the pictures. She just lit up hearing their voices. And in the meantime while waiting for the adoption to be finalized she just loves Liz. She is like her third appendage.
We then had a chance to talk with all the kids and tell them why we are here. The one question they asked was if all their sponsors would be coming to Africa to see them. We tried to explain that most would be unable to do so but that did not mean you all did not care for them and think about them often. They were upset that not more sponsors could come but were so happy to know they were in your thoughts. They were excited we would be here for a whole month and that we hoped to spend a lot of time with them. So now as my computer is about to die (only 10% more power) I will let bid you all goodnight. Thanks again for your support. Who knows what tomorrow will bring but we are praying for power!
The power came back on - Hallelujah! Phil and Liz were playing Skip-Bo (Liz won!) and I was reading my Kindle by flashlight. We tried to make the Instant Ice Tea I brought and the overall consensus is that the stuff is awful. We are all sticking to water. I offered to leave it with Phil and he even assured me it would still be here next year! Though the tea was awful we did have some really good laughs over how bad it was! So all was not lost.
It's now 11:45 and we are headed to bed. We really are becoming Lucy and Ethel. That might be the theme of this trip...
Love you all.
BIBLES IN EXCHANGE FOR PASSAGE....
The hour spent in Kigali was excruciating. We could have been flying or already landing. But instead we were just sitting on the tarmac waiting for the inevitable last leg of our trip to be over. Though the flight was only 30 minutes after 19 hours in the air, 5 hours in airports and very little sleep we were ready to land and get off moving vehicles only to board another moving vehicle the next day.
Getting the bags off the conveyor belt was a comedy act in the making. Liz and I (well really Liz) could make a living doing stand up comedy. I would make a great laughing soundtrack. As could only be expected with this trip ALL our luggage came at once. That means 10 – 50 pound cases came out one right after the other. Now my job (actually designated by Liz) was to watch our backpacks while she off loaded the footlockers. We had three carts ready to transport them through customs; the problem was getting them off fast enough before they passed her by. It was somewhat reminiscent of the old I love Lucy episode where Lucy and Ethel were making cookies only the cookies ended up winning! The bins were coming faster than she could get them off – until she moved into hyper speed. Now we had three carts filled to the brim, one carry on suitcase, three backpacks and two pillows to lug to customs. We finally gave in and decided help would be a good investment. And so we screamed Uncle!
Now for those of you who were with us last year you remember you might recall how easy a time we had going through customs. I don’t remember opening a single footlocker and just walking out the gate to greet Phil. Well, as we should have expected, knowing our baggage history this trip, we started the trek for the door, and heard them calling for us for from Customs. They immediately asked for a list of EVERYTHING in all bins…and so we produced just that. Their next question was if we had any medicine. Now Phil’s advice was to not mention medicine but if they asked to respond honestly and so I did. With that they asked that each and every bin be opened. And so I opened the first. The top was filled with clothing and I was hoping this would throw them off and we could move on. But they proceeded to dig, like a dog looking for a bone and came upon all kinds of different medicines. As they were reading labels and I was starting to talk to fill the void, I suddenly mentioned that the carton also had Bibles. As soon as the words were out of my mouth I wasn’t sure if this was a good thing to say or not. Maybe the people I was speaking to were Muslims. But then God walked into the picture. Actually He was already there but I saw Him for the first time. The woman who had been so intent upon the medicine suddenly put the medicine down and asked if she could have a Bible. In my mind, I did a quick calculation. I knew that Phil had requested 20 and that Jen had ordered 24. So I was quick to respond with a resounding “Yes”. The three people with her than asked if they could have one as well. Well, I may not be very good at math, you can ask anyone in my family, but 24 minus 4 is 20. So Phil got what he needed, they got their Bibles and we got through customs with everything intact! Yahoo for us, and for them. They were excited and we were thrilled.
Then we went to the Entebbe Flight Hotel where we spent the night (Linda after no sleep for over 24 hours it looked very nice to us – it had a horizontal surface to sleep on). Phil, Susan, Scovia and Peter ate dinner (Liz and I sat with them but were much to exhausted to lift the utensils to our mouth) and finally went to bed at midnight our time! We did get a chance to see Susan’s baby, Keith, and he is just the cutest thing in the world! The next morning we got up and began our drive to Iganga. Once we got outside of Kampala and back on the red dirt roads with the crazy drivers we felt right at home. The countryside with the perpetual market places, goats on the side of the roads, and people everywhere brought back all the memories of last year. And when we finally pulled into Phil’s house all the children were there waiting for us. We got hugs from them all, recognizing some and astonished by the growth of others. Jen and Blake, I told Moses that you said hello and he immediately asked if I remembered him. When I said yes and his name was Moses he was so excited. I told him at some point we would phone you and he broke into the biggest grin. Mark and Jacque Phiona is as cute as ever. She too wore a perpetual smile! Actually many of the children were shy but I’m sure that will change over the next month. Then they went home to eat dinner. We plan to see them today as soon as they get out of school.
Phil, Liz and I sat up last night and compared our list of kids to his. He told us who has left since our last review and who has since come to the orphanage. Nine children have left for various reasons (I will personally communicate with each sponsor) and he has added 24 new children for a total of 139 children. There is a possibility that another two may be leaving but at this time he is unsure.
And so our day ended. We got up this morning and took showers. Yeah to that! Our last one was in San Antonio the day we left. We did arrive in Iganga to no power and it remained that way all night. By the time we got in bed last night it was HOT. So now we are clean, the power is back on, and we are good to go. But everyone around us is sick. I will update you again tonight. But until then know we are thinking about you and love you all.
Getting the bags off the conveyor belt was a comedy act in the making. Liz and I (well really Liz) could make a living doing stand up comedy. I would make a great laughing soundtrack. As could only be expected with this trip ALL our luggage came at once. That means 10 – 50 pound cases came out one right after the other. Now my job (actually designated by Liz) was to watch our backpacks while she off loaded the footlockers. We had three carts ready to transport them through customs; the problem was getting them off fast enough before they passed her by. It was somewhat reminiscent of the old I love Lucy episode where Lucy and Ethel were making cookies only the cookies ended up winning! The bins were coming faster than she could get them off – until she moved into hyper speed. Now we had three carts filled to the brim, one carry on suitcase, three backpacks and two pillows to lug to customs. We finally gave in and decided help would be a good investment. And so we screamed Uncle!
Now for those of you who were with us last year you remember you might recall how easy a time we had going through customs. I don’t remember opening a single footlocker and just walking out the gate to greet Phil. Well, as we should have expected, knowing our baggage history this trip, we started the trek for the door, and heard them calling for us for from Customs. They immediately asked for a list of EVERYTHING in all bins…and so we produced just that. Their next question was if we had any medicine. Now Phil’s advice was to not mention medicine but if they asked to respond honestly and so I did. With that they asked that each and every bin be opened. And so I opened the first. The top was filled with clothing and I was hoping this would throw them off and we could move on. But they proceeded to dig, like a dog looking for a bone and came upon all kinds of different medicines. As they were reading labels and I was starting to talk to fill the void, I suddenly mentioned that the carton also had Bibles. As soon as the words were out of my mouth I wasn’t sure if this was a good thing to say or not. Maybe the people I was speaking to were Muslims. But then God walked into the picture. Actually He was already there but I saw Him for the first time. The woman who had been so intent upon the medicine suddenly put the medicine down and asked if she could have a Bible. In my mind, I did a quick calculation. I knew that Phil had requested 20 and that Jen had ordered 24. So I was quick to respond with a resounding “Yes”. The three people with her than asked if they could have one as well. Well, I may not be very good at math, you can ask anyone in my family, but 24 minus 4 is 20. So Phil got what he needed, they got their Bibles and we got through customs with everything intact! Yahoo for us, and for them. They were excited and we were thrilled.
Then we went to the Entebbe Flight Hotel where we spent the night (Linda after no sleep for over 24 hours it looked very nice to us – it had a horizontal surface to sleep on). Phil, Susan, Scovia and Peter ate dinner (Liz and I sat with them but were much to exhausted to lift the utensils to our mouth) and finally went to bed at midnight our time! We did get a chance to see Susan’s baby, Keith, and he is just the cutest thing in the world! The next morning we got up and began our drive to Iganga. Once we got outside of Kampala and back on the red dirt roads with the crazy drivers we felt right at home. The countryside with the perpetual market places, goats on the side of the roads, and people everywhere brought back all the memories of last year. And when we finally pulled into Phil’s house all the children were there waiting for us. We got hugs from them all, recognizing some and astonished by the growth of others. Jen and Blake, I told Moses that you said hello and he immediately asked if I remembered him. When I said yes and his name was Moses he was so excited. I told him at some point we would phone you and he broke into the biggest grin. Mark and Jacque Phiona is as cute as ever. She too wore a perpetual smile! Actually many of the children were shy but I’m sure that will change over the next month. Then they went home to eat dinner. We plan to see them today as soon as they get out of school.
Phil, Liz and I sat up last night and compared our list of kids to his. He told us who has left since our last review and who has since come to the orphanage. Nine children have left for various reasons (I will personally communicate with each sponsor) and he has added 24 new children for a total of 139 children. There is a possibility that another two may be leaving but at this time he is unsure.
And so our day ended. We got up this morning and took showers. Yeah to that! Our last one was in San Antonio the day we left. We did arrive in Iganga to no power and it remained that way all night. By the time we got in bed last night it was HOT. So now we are clean, the power is back on, and we are good to go. But everyone around us is sick. I will update you again tonight. But until then know we are thinking about you and love you all.
LUCY AND ETHEL TAKE TO THE SKIES...
And so the journey began… 2 people; 2 suitcases; 9 footlockers; three backpacks and two pillows later we were ready to go. Unfortunately, United Airlines did not get the memo!
Our trip began at 9:15 am Monday morning when we left the house for the airport. I had asked United if they would waive our bag fees since we were going on a mission trip. Originally they had said yes but then within a few days reneged on that offer. So from my understanding from the individual at the ticket counter, who I made a special trip to go see, we were to pay $70 a bag. Originally we thought we’d be able to get all the medical supplies, school supplies, clothing, solar panels, etc. in six bins. But as we filled the bins and weighed them we soon realized that thought must have been a dream – it was certainly a fantasy. And so the number of bins increased daily until we were at nine! And still we had to leave behind one jar of peanut butter. And to our utter surprise the cost to have the bins placed on the airplane was not $70 but $200! Fortunately, the Lord must have known this was going to happen as He has provided for our every need. I just wish He’d filled me in (just a small clue would have been nice) before hand.
We made it through security in San Antonio with no problem, found the gate, got on the plane and both sighed a sigh of relief. For the next four hours someone else was in charge and we could just sit back and enjoy. I pulled out my Kindle to read but God was not done with his humor yet. The overhead lights in our row did NOT work. So Liz and I talked and talked about last year’s trip, what we hope to accomplish this year. We laughed and laughed some more. United may have tried to get the best of us but it was not working!!
In Washington, DC we got off the airplane and woo-hoo our gate was right there. For someone as directionally challenged as me, this was great news. We stopped and ate at Wendy’s (and yes, there was some beef, for those of you old enough to remember the “where’s the beef” commercial) then grabbed a chai latte (not nearly as good as the one’s at the Loft) and sat and waited for the next flight. This flight was to Brussells and it went on FOREVER! It was like the “song that never ends”. The flight to Washington was very smooth – almost like a baby’s behind. This flight to Brussels was like being on the Rattler! Bumpy, bouncy, and up and down! And did I mention it went on forever! Finally we were in Brussels and that airport makes Atlanta look small. Of course we landed in one terminal and had to get to the next one. But not before they re-examined our luggage – twice!! We were not able to hook up to Internet without paying an arm and a leg so I hope you were able to track that we arrived safely. If United paid as much attention to their passengers as they did to the luggage they would be one incredible Airline!!
Now we are in Kigali waiting for the next batch of passengers to board. We’ve been on the ground for an hour and then will begin our last leg of the flight to Entebbe. Never has one place looked so good. We are so eager to get there and get off this plane. It is now 7:15 P.M. Tuesday night local time and Liz and I are both exhausted. We arrive in Entebbe at 9:55 pm and then will figure out how to manage all the bins, go through customs and finally meet up with Phil. That could be a story all in itself.
We are excited for this adventure to begin but for now we just want a bed! We are very jealous that each of you are soundly sleeping under cozy blankets. May God bless you all.
Our trip began at 9:15 am Monday morning when we left the house for the airport. I had asked United if they would waive our bag fees since we were going on a mission trip. Originally they had said yes but then within a few days reneged on that offer. So from my understanding from the individual at the ticket counter, who I made a special trip to go see, we were to pay $70 a bag. Originally we thought we’d be able to get all the medical supplies, school supplies, clothing, solar panels, etc. in six bins. But as we filled the bins and weighed them we soon realized that thought must have been a dream – it was certainly a fantasy. And so the number of bins increased daily until we were at nine! And still we had to leave behind one jar of peanut butter. And to our utter surprise the cost to have the bins placed on the airplane was not $70 but $200! Fortunately, the Lord must have known this was going to happen as He has provided for our every need. I just wish He’d filled me in (just a small clue would have been nice) before hand.
We made it through security in San Antonio with no problem, found the gate, got on the plane and both sighed a sigh of relief. For the next four hours someone else was in charge and we could just sit back and enjoy. I pulled out my Kindle to read but God was not done with his humor yet. The overhead lights in our row did NOT work. So Liz and I talked and talked about last year’s trip, what we hope to accomplish this year. We laughed and laughed some more. United may have tried to get the best of us but it was not working!!
In Washington, DC we got off the airplane and woo-hoo our gate was right there. For someone as directionally challenged as me, this was great news. We stopped and ate at Wendy’s (and yes, there was some beef, for those of you old enough to remember the “where’s the beef” commercial) then grabbed a chai latte (not nearly as good as the one’s at the Loft) and sat and waited for the next flight. This flight was to Brussells and it went on FOREVER! It was like the “song that never ends”. The flight to Washington was very smooth – almost like a baby’s behind. This flight to Brussels was like being on the Rattler! Bumpy, bouncy, and up and down! And did I mention it went on forever! Finally we were in Brussels and that airport makes Atlanta look small. Of course we landed in one terminal and had to get to the next one. But not before they re-examined our luggage – twice!! We were not able to hook up to Internet without paying an arm and a leg so I hope you were able to track that we arrived safely. If United paid as much attention to their passengers as they did to the luggage they would be one incredible Airline!!
Now we are in Kigali waiting for the next batch of passengers to board. We’ve been on the ground for an hour and then will begin our last leg of the flight to Entebbe. Never has one place looked so good. We are so eager to get there and get off this plane. It is now 7:15 P.M. Tuesday night local time and Liz and I are both exhausted. We arrive in Entebbe at 9:55 pm and then will figure out how to manage all the bins, go through customs and finally meet up with Phil. That could be a story all in itself.
We are excited for this adventure to begin but for now we just want a bed! We are very jealous that each of you are soundly sleeping under cozy blankets. May God bless you all.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
All Packed up and ready to go...Or so I thought!
So last night Liz came over and we set our sights on packing. The challenge was to get everything (solar panels, solar battery (22 pounds all by itself), eight solar lights, lots and lots of medicine, 1300 pens, padlocks, printer cartridges, premathrin (a substance used to spray nets to keep mosquitos away), batteries, soccer and volleyballs, clothes, etc. into eight footlockers without any of them exceeding 50 pounds. At first the task seemed insurmountable. And then it began to seem possible. And then it seemed impossible again. One item at a time we would add to the crate and watch the scale inch closer to the 50 pound mark. But alas everything was in and we did a little song and dance. Until this morning...
That is when I got an email from Phil telling me that everything needed to be out of their packaging so the customs representatives wouldn't charge us for anything "new". This was great information to have... it was just about 24 hours too late. So tomorrow everything will come out of the footlockers, all packaging will be removed and everything will be returned in a used, who would want it condition. At least we know it will fit. And maybe that will be enough to get us through customs without a hitch! Since then, I have acquired some wonderful dresses that were originally made for a mission trip to Haiti. I'm not sure why they are still here but I am thrilled that I am the lucky recipient of many beautiful dresses for our girls. We also have quite a few knit hats that a woman in our community has been making. They are absolutely gorgeous and I can't wait to give them out. Our girls are going to be stylin'! Really I am so excited to be able to bring these things to our children. I know they will be so appreciative and it will be awesome to be able to give them something that they can wear.
As I look back on this part of my journey I am just in awe of all the things that God has provided. Every time I think there is not another thing that someone can possibly do for our kids someone does just that. People have given beyond my wildest dreams. And the amazing part is that so many of the people who have donated have been people I don't even know - people I have never met and may never meet. God has worked in amazing ways and I am so blessed by all the people who care for our children half a world away. I often get asked why I am so passionate about Uganda. Why not devote my time to the people in my own backyard. And yes, I know there are people here in my community who are struggling. I guess we all have our callings. As short a period of time as two years ago I never thought I would go to Africa. I had never really given it any thought at all. And then circumstances changed and the idea was put in my head. And so I went. I was excited to go last year, but in hindsight I was excited because it was new. I can remember sitting on the end of my driveway the night before we left terrified. I kept asking myself what had I gotten myself into. And then I arrived and saw the smiles on the faces of the children and I knew I was in the right place. I saw what little they had and what joy they had. I saw how much love they had to share and I came away from the two weeks knowing that I had gotten far more from the experience than I was ever able to give.
And so as I prepare to leave on Monday I wonder what this year will bring. I wonder what God has in store for us while we are there. I hope He prepares our hearts and speaks through us. I hope He gives us wisdom. I hope He protects our families while we are gone and provides us with good health, strength and a sense of humor.
In closing tonight I have a special thank you to my friends at the Loft. You don't know this but you all have changed my life these past few months. It has been an honor to get to know you and work beside you. You are all the kindest, gentlest people. Everyone should have the pleasure to be surrounded by such wonderful people. Kelly, keep those pastries coming. The compliments from people should make you proud. Cindy, practice making those coffees. If this old dog can do it so can you. I have faith! Tom, keep those lunches coming and if you have time you can come by my house and empty the dishwasher. You're awesome! Danielle, keep on stocking. And smell the coffee for me every Tuesday... Ben, when the customer comes you really shouldn't make them make their own drink! If I don't see you before you leave for Haiti have a great time. John, your grandchildren are adorable and I can see they love you bunches. Tami keep on cheering for your son, making those wedding plans and staying away from sugar. I will notice if you cheat even from 5,000 miles away. Judy, keep up exercising so the rest of us don't have to. Andrea keep up that radical love. Everyone needs compost now and then! And Jenny, keep the glow. You've never looked better. I love you all very much and will miss you.
That is when I got an email from Phil telling me that everything needed to be out of their packaging so the customs representatives wouldn't charge us for anything "new". This was great information to have... it was just about 24 hours too late. So tomorrow everything will come out of the footlockers, all packaging will be removed and everything will be returned in a used, who would want it condition. At least we know it will fit. And maybe that will be enough to get us through customs without a hitch! Since then, I have acquired some wonderful dresses that were originally made for a mission trip to Haiti. I'm not sure why they are still here but I am thrilled that I am the lucky recipient of many beautiful dresses for our girls. We also have quite a few knit hats that a woman in our community has been making. They are absolutely gorgeous and I can't wait to give them out. Our girls are going to be stylin'! Really I am so excited to be able to bring these things to our children. I know they will be so appreciative and it will be awesome to be able to give them something that they can wear.
As I look back on this part of my journey I am just in awe of all the things that God has provided. Every time I think there is not another thing that someone can possibly do for our kids someone does just that. People have given beyond my wildest dreams. And the amazing part is that so many of the people who have donated have been people I don't even know - people I have never met and may never meet. God has worked in amazing ways and I am so blessed by all the people who care for our children half a world away. I often get asked why I am so passionate about Uganda. Why not devote my time to the people in my own backyard. And yes, I know there are people here in my community who are struggling. I guess we all have our callings. As short a period of time as two years ago I never thought I would go to Africa. I had never really given it any thought at all. And then circumstances changed and the idea was put in my head. And so I went. I was excited to go last year, but in hindsight I was excited because it was new. I can remember sitting on the end of my driveway the night before we left terrified. I kept asking myself what had I gotten myself into. And then I arrived and saw the smiles on the faces of the children and I knew I was in the right place. I saw what little they had and what joy they had. I saw how much love they had to share and I came away from the two weeks knowing that I had gotten far more from the experience than I was ever able to give.
And so as I prepare to leave on Monday I wonder what this year will bring. I wonder what God has in store for us while we are there. I hope He prepares our hearts and speaks through us. I hope He gives us wisdom. I hope He protects our families while we are gone and provides us with good health, strength and a sense of humor.
In closing tonight I have a special thank you to my friends at the Loft. You don't know this but you all have changed my life these past few months. It has been an honor to get to know you and work beside you. You are all the kindest, gentlest people. Everyone should have the pleasure to be surrounded by such wonderful people. Kelly, keep those pastries coming. The compliments from people should make you proud. Cindy, practice making those coffees. If this old dog can do it so can you. I have faith! Tom, keep those lunches coming and if you have time you can come by my house and empty the dishwasher. You're awesome! Danielle, keep on stocking. And smell the coffee for me every Tuesday... Ben, when the customer comes you really shouldn't make them make their own drink! If I don't see you before you leave for Haiti have a great time. John, your grandchildren are adorable and I can see they love you bunches. Tami keep on cheering for your son, making those wedding plans and staying away from sugar. I will notice if you cheat even from 5,000 miles away. Judy, keep up exercising so the rest of us don't have to. Andrea keep up that radical love. Everyone needs compost now and then! And Jenny, keep the glow. You've never looked better. I love you all very much and will miss you.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Three Weeks and Counting...
Three weeks from today Liz Mendoza and I will be on a plane heading for Uganda. I can't believe our trip is so close and yet so far away! Seems like years since I was there last and I can't wait to see all the smiling faces of our children. I know regardless of the circumstances I will find them happy and excited to see us. I know Liz and I will feel the same!
I want to thank all of you who have chosen to take this journey with me by participating in the "Shoe" program for our kids. I know they will be so excited to pick out their own pair and as I have said many times I will be sure to let them know the shoes are from their sponsor or from a family member or friend of mine. I know they will be thrilled and I can already see their smiles as we take this walk into town. It is because of all of you that this will be possible and I am truly thankful. So thank you from the bottom of my heart!
As I prepare for this trip and try to gather all the items that Phil (our missionary) is requesting (medical supplies, school supplies, etc) I always thought the help would come from those I know. I've been praying for God to provide and I have to say that every time I begin to doubt, even just a little bit, He provides in amazing ways. The help has come in all different directions. Family and friends have donated beyond my wildest dreams. But beyond that I have received support from people I don't even know. How amazing is that? Two individuals from the Huntsville area have offered to provide the Solar panels and the medical supplies requested. Not only is this awesome but it takes a tremendous burden off my shoulders since I don't know the first thing about Solar panels! I was in tears when I received their emails offering to provide these items to our children. The more I continue this journey the more I realize that I may be the one going but there are many, many people traveling with me. And to each of you I am thankful. I couldn't do this trip without you and I sometimes feel guilty that I will be the one receiving all the hugs on the other end. All of you definitely deserve your share.
And so we are three weeks out. I am no where ready to leave but I know it will all fall together in time. I will do my best to talk with each of our children and learn their individual story. I will also take tons of pictures and share those with you when I return. I will share your love for your kids and let them know you think about and pray for them often. Thanks again for taking this journey with Liz and me.
Sue
I want to thank all of you who have chosen to take this journey with me by participating in the "Shoe" program for our kids. I know they will be so excited to pick out their own pair and as I have said many times I will be sure to let them know the shoes are from their sponsor or from a family member or friend of mine. I know they will be thrilled and I can already see their smiles as we take this walk into town. It is because of all of you that this will be possible and I am truly thankful. So thank you from the bottom of my heart!
As I prepare for this trip and try to gather all the items that Phil (our missionary) is requesting (medical supplies, school supplies, etc) I always thought the help would come from those I know. I've been praying for God to provide and I have to say that every time I begin to doubt, even just a little bit, He provides in amazing ways. The help has come in all different directions. Family and friends have donated beyond my wildest dreams. But beyond that I have received support from people I don't even know. How amazing is that? Two individuals from the Huntsville area have offered to provide the Solar panels and the medical supplies requested. Not only is this awesome but it takes a tremendous burden off my shoulders since I don't know the first thing about Solar panels! I was in tears when I received their emails offering to provide these items to our children. The more I continue this journey the more I realize that I may be the one going but there are many, many people traveling with me. And to each of you I am thankful. I couldn't do this trip without you and I sometimes feel guilty that I will be the one receiving all the hugs on the other end. All of you definitely deserve your share.
And so we are three weeks out. I am no where ready to leave but I know it will all fall together in time. I will do my best to talk with each of our children and learn their individual story. I will also take tons of pictures and share those with you when I return. I will share your love for your kids and let them know you think about and pray for them often. Thanks again for taking this journey with Liz and me.
Sue
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