We all made it and are having a great time. The weather is a bit cold (30's), though warmer than Minnesota. We've seen a lot in the couple days we've been here so far and will do a tour of Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath on New Year's Day. Happy New Year!!
-Gail
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
Merry Christmas
Hope everyone had a great Christmas....I'm at the airport waiting for my flight to Naoribi (and thence to London)....Sisters wanted to bring me to the airport (also see the airport) but they had a lot of errands so we went early and I have a wait (which is fine w. me).....also, the airport has a great internet cafe!
We had a really good Christmas at PH. There was a group of PCVs who came and they interacted w. the kids so well...dancing,singing, playing soccer, talking....just like PCVs should be! The kids were thrilled w. the attention and of course, the food and the presents (thanks to Maria's friends and all the kids who brought stuff...e.g. bubbles, bouncy balls etc.) We filled the stockings the tailoring girls made (the girls still thought it was a waste to use that nice material for something that couldn't be worn, but that's O.K.) and everyone (kids, old folks and in between) got one plus a stuffed animal! It was really great. I was worried that it might not go well but heard one of the boys tell his mom on the phone that night that it was "awesome".
We went to 10 p.m. Mass at the Sister's chapel on Christmas Eve and they liked that too...great singing! At the end of his sermon Father asked the "visitors" to sing a song and after a few seconds of disbelief that he's asked that, we sang "Joy to the World"...not bad either! Mary and Joseph (both women) were led down the aisle after that by Ugandan dancers and African drums....the power went out just after the offeratory and we all thought it was part of the special effects till a nun brought in a lantern so the musicians could see the music!!!
Hope you all had a great day.......I don't miss the cold (London at 40 will be bad enough for me). Best wishes for a wonderful year in 2009!!
Short blog - do you believe it? Don't have my ususal notes!
We had a really good Christmas at PH. There was a group of PCVs who came and they interacted w. the kids so well...dancing,singing, playing soccer, talking....just like PCVs should be! The kids were thrilled w. the attention and of course, the food and the presents (thanks to Maria's friends and all the kids who brought stuff...e.g. bubbles, bouncy balls etc.) We filled the stockings the tailoring girls made (the girls still thought it was a waste to use that nice material for something that couldn't be worn, but that's O.K.) and everyone (kids, old folks and in between) got one plus a stuffed animal! It was really great. I was worried that it might not go well but heard one of the boys tell his mom on the phone that night that it was "awesome".
We went to 10 p.m. Mass at the Sister's chapel on Christmas Eve and they liked that too...great singing! At the end of his sermon Father asked the "visitors" to sing a song and after a few seconds of disbelief that he's asked that, we sang "Joy to the World"...not bad either! Mary and Joseph (both women) were led down the aisle after that by Ugandan dancers and African drums....the power went out just after the offeratory and we all thought it was part of the special effects till a nun brought in a lantern so the musicians could see the music!!!
Hope you all had a great day.......I don't miss the cold (London at 40 will be bad enough for me). Best wishes for a wonderful year in 2009!!
Short blog - do you believe it? Don't have my ususal notes!
Friday, December 19, 2008
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL 12-19-08
I may not write again till the New Year, so hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a great start to 2009!! I'm at the Bakery Computer now - Sr. Juliet reinstated the internet and no one else is on today so will give it a shot. I always feel a little guilty writing here - like I should be "doing" something!!! Lest I gave the wrong impression last week re: donations. I give all the money I get from outside (you all - and thanks!!) to the Sisters (or earmark it myself) for immediate use - and goodness knows they can use it!! But, I got some good advice from China (the PhD student here in April who'd been in Uganda 11 months) to not give ANY money to individuals until lthe day before I leave - otherwise you'd be bombarded with requests...many of them very good, but NO is easier to say if you're consistent! (If I feel really compelled I give it through the Sisters who are sworn to secrecy). I'm never sure if I should re-arrange this blog from today to past events, but will continue on the old format. The big event when I left off last week was the Christmas Program. Saturday practice was dismal - no power and the keyboard guy didn't come. Josephine was so nervous....she sounded like me! The kids worked hard all morning cleaning up the compound and hoeing around the shrubs and slashing grass. But, at 6 p.m. the power went on and the keyboard guy came (he'd been at a funeral) and they (not me) practiced late. They also had to peel bananas for matoke (cooked, mashed bananas - taste to me about good as that sounds, but it's a staple central Ugandan food), peeling potatoes, cleaning chickens, etc. Most got to bed around 1 or 2 a.m. I got here Sunday a.m. at 7 and they'd been at it for two hours, cleaning, cooking, decorating....we had Mass here at 8:00 and then the fun began. We had a nice group of parents (and the first parent meeting ever at PH), lots of Sisters (including the elderly) and the kids did a WONDERFUL job!! The play was good, the program moved well (and only 3 hours!!)....the singing was fantastic, dancing was great - just so good.. Then the kids served lunch to all which was much appreciated. Frequent comment was "I can't believe PH put on such a nice program"....the kids were really proud of themselves and rightfully so! Certainly proved that "Disability is not Inability". I left at 7:00 p.m. and they were doing dishes (no paper plates here). Monday I helped put away costumes and decorations (not nearly as much fun). Kids were still going home. Simon (a 20 year old, shoemaking student who has no function in his legs at all) learned that the grandmother he lived with on Holidays died Sunday(last relative)...very sad. Josephine, bless her, who is in a wheelchair, but can get around on her hands (w. flip flops) and knees said she felt so sorry for him and added "at least I can crawl"! How many times have we said "at least I can walk!". Being here can be very humbling. We had a really productive CBR meeting on Tuesday - reviewed all the meetings with the various groups that want to work with us (and they seem to be many lately - everyone wants to get into community based programming - must be where the $ are). The Katelemwa pepole had commented that our guys did the best job they've seen of mobiliziing people (getting them to the clinic in November in an organized fashion!) - literally patted them on the back...they are never sure how to take me. Wednesday I washed clothes and cleaned - it's labor intensive but good to get done. It's been very hot and still - hard to get motivated. Holly and I went up to RASD to see her Kilimanjaro pictures..it was beautiful but looked like a LOT of work - not for me! Thursday the power was out again - started w. what they call "Phase I" (out of 3)....very limited juice. I went w. Sr. Juliet to Kampala - quite the trip (again). We had along 3 sisters from the convent who were going shopping, 2 kids and Nelson going home, and Nantale (the girl w. the leg casts) and her grandfather (who'd never been in Kampala). Lots of stops, but everything got done. China's mom died unexpectedly this fall and left a memorial to PH and China felt she would want it used to upgrade the little kids dorm room (she visited China here last Feb.), so we got 12 new mattresses, pillows, and paint (and will get new bedding and small foot lockers). Lots of back and forth getting it all done plus drop off and pick up at Katelemwa - traded off w. the truck with the other sisters sometimes switching to matatus....a full day and back at 9 p.m.! When we were gone one of the elderly men here died...he'd had a stroke several weeks ago and was being cared for here by Nelson and some of the older boys. While I went home last nite, Sr. J (and the residents left and the other sisters) were holding an all night vigil in the PH chapel w. the body (because "you can't leave a dead body alone"). Today was the funeral.....mass early, and a short service at 1:00. Then everyone walked to a small cemetary behind the big church where they bury people w. no family. The big boys had dug the grave and they took the wood coffin there in the back of the red pickup. Lowered it on ropes and everyone threw in a stone and they sang. They covered it and left....very intimate ceremony! At 4:30 last nite, I'd had it w. a cockroach who's been under my bed for a week (I can hear him but try to tell myself I don't). Got up and "Doomed" (insect spray) under the bed and he came out and I got him!!! Then decided to look in my suitcases under there, got out my "winter" clothes I brought last Feb. and sorted them out for the trip to London!! Leave in a week!!! Gail said it's 40s there - cold for me; warm for them!! Maria has collected donations for a fabulous Christmas feast here - there are about 50 people still here, 8 sisters and we think about 20 PCVs might come....so we'll give the kids gifts in the a.m.(everyone is being so generous) and all have dinner together! Should be fun! I miss the snow and the Christmas tree and everyone gathered around it, but having something to do and knowing that I'll see some of the family soon helps. We all are a bit down, but coping together! I heard "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas" on the radio and nearly lost it!!! At least it wasn't "I'll Be Home For Christmas"! Keep telling myself the weather is more like Bethlehem than Minnesota is.....not sure it's working. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas where ever you are and whoever you are with! It's truly a magical season....May be awhile till I write again...will be gone Dec. 27 to Jan. 5 and Sr. Juliet's Final Profession is here January 6....lots to do yet before school starts Feb. 9. So, have a good New Year, too. |
Friday, December 12, 2008
One Third Through!!! 12-12-08
First, thanks to Gail for posting the pictures...first set of CDs got lost in the mail so it was a LOT. Hope you enjoyed them!!!
We are officially through 8 months at site and 1/3 of the way through the 2 years! Don't know if that's healthy way to look at it, but it works for me! I could wax philosophical but the blog is long and I'm not very good at being philosophical....it has gone fast. Gail said someone asked if I'd changed - and I sure hope so!!! I think I'm more patient and tolerant - you have to be here or you'd go crazy! (or maybe I'm just crazy).....it's been a great experience so far though I miss home a lot (especially at this time of year).
Will review the week - it's gone SO fast. Last Thursday was the Epilepsy Clinic. The nurse saw 46 people!! 10 new!! She is amazing - I was exhausted! Seizure disorders are so common here.
The kids are working on a Chistmas Program for the 14th....they have put so much into it. THere will be dancing, singing, and a Nativity Play (Black Nativity?).....Josephine and Kasule are working very hard. I've mentioned Josephine before...she's about 18, in a wheelchair, will be a Senior next year at a good school, bright, sings beautifully and is incredibly talented. She's composed some original songs...one in English I'd like to send to Michael W. Smith!! I broke my "no donations till the day before I leave" rule, and sprang for some material for costumes (Sr. Goretti and Sr. Sara are sewing like mad), a keyboard guy an a sound system guy (all very cheap).....determined to give them every advantage. They really want to prove that disabled kids can put on a quality program - and if rehersal is any indication, it will be great. Pray for us Sunday (14) - esp. that the power doesn't go out!!!
Holly sent a message that she and her friends summitted Kilimanjaro Weds. a.m. for sunrise....she said it was the hardest thing she ever did mentally or physically (and she'd just finished the Marathon the week before). Last day they woke at midnite, hiked 8 hours to see the sunrise at the summet, hiked down 5 hours to camp, slept 1/2 hour and then hiked another 3 hours down to lower elevation. The lack of oxygen was really draining she said! BUT THEY MADE IT....
Friday I went w. the Sisters Nairobi, Kenya....of course, we started late (anyone who reads the blog won't be surprised). I got to the Sister's house at 5 a.m. ( as arranged) and they were frying chicken and making chipatis for the trip! We did leave at 5:45...got to the connect point (Jinja) at 7:00 (meeting time) but the matatu didn't come till 8:45 (they rented two matatus instead of a bus)....again, no surprise - no one even gets upset (which still surprises me). What was a surprise was that I had to get a visa at the border which slowed us a bit and that the roads in Kenya were SO bad. Apparently many of them were badly damaged during the violence last January after their elections....from Jinja to Nairobi is 350 miles and it took us 15 hours!!! And very bumpy and dusty.
But, the scenery was beautiful on the trip - lots of small mountains (Great Rift Valley)...at the tops of the hills there were groves of pine trees (made me think of no. Minnesota)....massive tea plantations...miles and miles as far as the eye can see broken only by villages of workers' huts. It seems very peaceful though we went through some burned towns and UN tent cities....
We arrived in Nairobi about midnite - downtown is lovely - two lane roads and tree lined streets, parks, stores w. plate glass windows and manikens w. fashions (it's funny what you really don't miss till you see it again), but also enormous, awful slums. We got lost and got to the convent at 1 a.m.!!! I roomed w. a nun who's a nurse at Nkokonjeru Hospital (55?)...was a bit akward at first but she's really great.
The Profession ceremony was absolutely fabulous - worth every bump on the road. It lasted 5 1/2 hours - the sermon was given by a Kenyan Cardinal who talked for an hour!!...but it didn't seem long. Lots of dancing and singing - more like a cultural event. Except for three elderly priests I was the only muzungu!!! and that doesn't seem strange anymore. Sr. Veronica seemed very happy to see everyone - we got to meet her parents. Her village had hired a bunch of matatus and they were all there!!! Lots of speeches and food!
The trip back was slow - got home about midnite. Can't tell you how much fun the sisters have together. Lots of time on the matatu for me to ponder the strangeness of me taking this journey w. 13 Sisters - and how comfortable I felt about it!!!
Monday was a holiday - another of the rotating Muslim holidays (end of Haj). They never are sure what the actual date will be till it happens (???). Pretty slow day for me....spent some time reading Omnivore's Dilemna (thanks Jessica)...really interesting but he's pretty down on "conventional" farmers....he doesn't know the ones I know!!! Tuesday we had a visit from Dr. Antonio's assistant...lots of great suggestions for improving our CBR program - my head hurt after that one!!! Wednesday was another whirlwind trip to Kampala w. Sr. J and Sr. Melody....both had a LOT of business to accomplish, but our major task was to take a little girl to the orthopedic hospital and meet there w. the supervisor at 11 a.m. (more about CBR and outreach....it's apparently the buzz word now - esp. sponsoring parent groups to help other parents of disabled children - it's a good idea, but will take some time and work). The little girl's grandfather refused to go with her as a caretaker (as he'd promised) so Sister finally found an aunt who'd go which made us 2 hours late for the meeting (surprised?) but it went O.K. After the hospital we went downtown for various things but Sr. Melody and I got caught in a downpour while shopping for material for costumes! Didas went also (the shoemaking teacher) to check out a little store where Sr. J had taken some shoes for sale - the guy sold them and is very interested in getting more, so that was good news.
Most of the time at PH otherwise is helping where I can w. the program....had supper w. Holly and Shari last nite to plan our Christmas PCV get together in Nkokonjeru. Days are never dull! I'm waiting for the Holiday lull actually.....
Hope you are all well and Christmas plans are progressing. We hear lots about the economic problems in the U.S. (and elsewhere).....our thoughts are with you guys and hope everyone can hang on. Best wishes to all for a wonderul holiday season w. family.
Thanks so much for cards, letters, packages, thoughts and prayers......they mean SO much. I'm really glad I have the London trip (to see the Skluzaceks) December 27 - makes missing Christmas easier. Give every little one a hug for me!!!
We are officially through 8 months at site and 1/3 of the way through the 2 years! Don't know if that's healthy way to look at it, but it works for me! I could wax philosophical but the blog is long and I'm not very good at being philosophical....it has gone fast. Gail said someone asked if I'd changed - and I sure hope so!!! I think I'm more patient and tolerant - you have to be here or you'd go crazy! (or maybe I'm just crazy).....it's been a great experience so far though I miss home a lot (especially at this time of year).
Will review the week - it's gone SO fast. Last Thursday was the Epilepsy Clinic. The nurse saw 46 people!! 10 new!! She is amazing - I was exhausted! Seizure disorders are so common here.
The kids are working on a Chistmas Program for the 14th....they have put so much into it. THere will be dancing, singing, and a Nativity Play (Black Nativity?).....Josephine and Kasule are working very hard. I've mentioned Josephine before...she's about 18, in a wheelchair, will be a Senior next year at a good school, bright, sings beautifully and is incredibly talented. She's composed some original songs...one in English I'd like to send to Michael W. Smith!! I broke my "no donations till the day before I leave" rule, and sprang for some material for costumes (Sr. Goretti and Sr. Sara are sewing like mad), a keyboard guy an a sound system guy (all very cheap).....determined to give them every advantage. They really want to prove that disabled kids can put on a quality program - and if rehersal is any indication, it will be great. Pray for us Sunday (14) - esp. that the power doesn't go out!!!
Holly sent a message that she and her friends summitted Kilimanjaro Weds. a.m. for sunrise....she said it was the hardest thing she ever did mentally or physically (and she'd just finished the Marathon the week before). Last day they woke at midnite, hiked 8 hours to see the sunrise at the summet, hiked down 5 hours to camp, slept 1/2 hour and then hiked another 3 hours down to lower elevation. The lack of oxygen was really draining she said! BUT THEY MADE IT....
Friday I went w. the Sisters Nairobi, Kenya....of course, we started late (anyone who reads the blog won't be surprised). I got to the Sister's house at 5 a.m. ( as arranged) and they were frying chicken and making chipatis for the trip! We did leave at 5:45...got to the connect point (Jinja) at 7:00 (meeting time) but the matatu didn't come till 8:45 (they rented two matatus instead of a bus)....again, no surprise - no one even gets upset (which still surprises me). What was a surprise was that I had to get a visa at the border which slowed us a bit and that the roads in Kenya were SO bad. Apparently many of them were badly damaged during the violence last January after their elections....from Jinja to Nairobi is 350 miles and it took us 15 hours!!! And very bumpy and dusty.
But, the scenery was beautiful on the trip - lots of small mountains (Great Rift Valley)...at the tops of the hills there were groves of pine trees (made me think of no. Minnesota)....massive tea plantations...miles and miles as far as the eye can see broken only by villages of workers' huts. It seems very peaceful though we went through some burned towns and UN tent cities....
We arrived in Nairobi about midnite - downtown is lovely - two lane roads and tree lined streets, parks, stores w. plate glass windows and manikens w. fashions (it's funny what you really don't miss till you see it again), but also enormous, awful slums. We got lost and got to the convent at 1 a.m.!!! I roomed w. a nun who's a nurse at Nkokonjeru Hospital (55?)...was a bit akward at first but she's really great.
The Profession ceremony was absolutely fabulous - worth every bump on the road. It lasted 5 1/2 hours - the sermon was given by a Kenyan Cardinal who talked for an hour!!...but it didn't seem long. Lots of dancing and singing - more like a cultural event. Except for three elderly priests I was the only muzungu!!! and that doesn't seem strange anymore. Sr. Veronica seemed very happy to see everyone - we got to meet her parents. Her village had hired a bunch of matatus and they were all there!!! Lots of speeches and food!
The trip back was slow - got home about midnite. Can't tell you how much fun the sisters have together. Lots of time on the matatu for me to ponder the strangeness of me taking this journey w. 13 Sisters - and how comfortable I felt about it!!!
Monday was a holiday - another of the rotating Muslim holidays (end of Haj). They never are sure what the actual date will be till it happens (???). Pretty slow day for me....spent some time reading Omnivore's Dilemna (thanks Jessica)...really interesting but he's pretty down on "conventional" farmers....he doesn't know the ones I know!!! Tuesday we had a visit from Dr. Antonio's assistant...lots of great suggestions for improving our CBR program - my head hurt after that one!!! Wednesday was another whirlwind trip to Kampala w. Sr. J and Sr. Melody....both had a LOT of business to accomplish, but our major task was to take a little girl to the orthopedic hospital and meet there w. the supervisor at 11 a.m. (more about CBR and outreach....it's apparently the buzz word now - esp. sponsoring parent groups to help other parents of disabled children - it's a good idea, but will take some time and work). The little girl's grandfather refused to go with her as a caretaker (as he'd promised) so Sister finally found an aunt who'd go which made us 2 hours late for the meeting (surprised?) but it went O.K. After the hospital we went downtown for various things but Sr. Melody and I got caught in a downpour while shopping for material for costumes! Didas went also (the shoemaking teacher) to check out a little store where Sr. J had taken some shoes for sale - the guy sold them and is very interested in getting more, so that was good news.
Most of the time at PH otherwise is helping where I can w. the program....had supper w. Holly and Shari last nite to plan our Christmas PCV get together in Nkokonjeru. Days are never dull! I'm waiting for the Holiday lull actually.....
Hope you are all well and Christmas plans are progressing. We hear lots about the economic problems in the U.S. (and elsewhere).....our thoughts are with you guys and hope everyone can hang on. Best wishes to all for a wonderul holiday season w. family.
Thanks so much for cards, letters, packages, thoughts and prayers......they mean SO much. I'm really glad I have the London trip (to see the Skluzaceks) December 27 - makes missing Christmas easier. Give every little one a hug for me!!!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Pictures!
I finally got the picture cds that Kath sent. There are 228 pictures so check out the Flickr site when you have time (there is a set titled Novmber Picture CD). Here are just a couple...
Drums
Dancing
Fire in the new stove.
Kath swimming in Lake Bunyoni
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
December 3, 2008
I am up at RASD (it really is UP the hill)....had to try to connect to the blog four times but it finally worked...I'm trying to practice my patience!!!
Busy week gone by - Holly's friends from America arrived in Nkokonjeru on Wednesday - Lorraine was a PCV in Togo in 2004-6 and came w. her brother David to join Holly in the Kilimanjaro climb! Wednesday nite we ate in a local restaurant so they could try Matoke etc. then Thursday we had dinner at the convent w. Sr. Juliet and Holly invited some of her co-workers so we got to explain Thanksgiving (easier than explaining Halloween). Holly and Lorraine made a great apple pie over their gas stove -latice crust and all!!!
Was so excited about the success of the clinic last week, but in retrospect we have some problems. I didn't know they were bringing technicians to measure people for appliances (CP chairs and stands, caliphers, wheelchairs, etc.) and they ordered them right there....unfortunately we can't pay for them (and neither can the guardians)...now we have a problem of expectations. Sister J and I are meeting w. the Katelemwa people next Monday to see what we can work out....we should have been clear that people would have to contribute (which some cannot) - and they need help with how to use them. Bummer!!
Friday Holly and her friends left for Tanzania - quite an adventure. I left for Sorotti (NE).... got on the 6:30 a.m. matatu, got to Kampala at 9:00 and got on a bus which left at 10:30 (when full)....but it made a LOT of stops...in Mbale we had to get out and get a matatu to Sorotti...got there about 6:30 p.m. - hot and dirty!!! You get one stop to pee (outside) and at one stop where the vendors rush the bus to sell stuff - water, grilled meat on a stick, even pineapple on a stick (like the State Fair!).
It was fun to see everyone and the meal on Saturday was great....grilled turkey, mashed potatoes, fruit salad and macaroni and cheese (?). Also apple and pumpkin pies - very good!!!
Lots of good talk and played a game of bocce shoes - they didn't have balls so they improvised! Lavera's house is huge - I still like my little apartment tho'.
Left on the 6 a.m. bus Sunday(they come right to the house and pick you up)....got off in Mukono to use the internet and was back in Nkokonjeru by 4:00 - again, tired, hot and dirty!!! Went down to check out what's up at PH - Josephine is back from school and has started to work on the Christmas program set for Dec. 13 or 14....she's a real go-getter. They are even going to have a Nativity Play - our own Black Nativity!!!
I had left my Math exam to be copied when the power went back on ...got back and it wasn't on, but the lady had taken my exam to Kampala and copied it (great customer service) so we had it Monday a.m. Power was offfrom Tuesday till Tuesday nite - story is some people were cutting trees illegally and knocked down the poles and ran. The electric co. had no idea what was going on and had to survey the lines - finally found the three down poles, but had to get a crew from Jinja who came only in the afternoon every day (after lunch) till dark....so it took a week. It was very hard on the bakery!
Crazy Tuesday (yesterday)...oops...the power just went out but my draft saved to this point. YEA! Power re-appeared so am trying to finish! Back to Tuesday...it was CBR day and we got started, then the nurse came from PC to check my housing and visited at PH for a bit. Sister and I developed a job description for a business manager and then interviewed a guy who's been doing some bookkeeping for her and looks very promising. Then went w. the Sisters and Moses and Nelson out to see the little girl (16) who was at the clinic and got her legs casted. She's supposed to go to the hospital but grandparents said they couldn't go with her (you have to have someone go w. you to bathe you, do your laundry, cook, etc.) - Sister really argued w.them and finally the Grandfather said he'd go - so they will go with us Monday when we go there for our meeting! All the kids had so many jiggers on their toes - toes were almost twice normal size - has to be painful!! I soaked my feet in bleach water when I got home!! We also stopped to see another 8 year old girl w. "floppy" CP- mom said she was "born w/o bones!"....So many disabled children - seems like every other hut had a disabled child (and LOTS of children)! It's overwhelming!
Tomorrow is epilepsy clinic and Friday I'm going w. the Sisters for the weekend to Nairobi for Sr.Veronica's Final Profession of Faith...I'm excited to see Kenya (and hopefully get my passport stamped from Kenya) even if it is a short trip.
Hope all had a great Thanksgiving....be thankful for whatever you have....I am really learning to appreciate the good health of our children and grandchildren! It's not a given in many parts of the world!
Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers. Someone is waiting to use the computer (only one in the "cafe") so I'll close...more next week. Things go well....it's hot and dry but nites are still O.K. Better than the cold for me!!!
Busy week gone by - Holly's friends from America arrived in Nkokonjeru on Wednesday - Lorraine was a PCV in Togo in 2004-6 and came w. her brother David to join Holly in the Kilimanjaro climb! Wednesday nite we ate in a local restaurant so they could try Matoke etc. then Thursday we had dinner at the convent w. Sr. Juliet and Holly invited some of her co-workers so we got to explain Thanksgiving (easier than explaining Halloween). Holly and Lorraine made a great apple pie over their gas stove -latice crust and all!!!
Was so excited about the success of the clinic last week, but in retrospect we have some problems. I didn't know they were bringing technicians to measure people for appliances (CP chairs and stands, caliphers, wheelchairs, etc.) and they ordered them right there....unfortunately we can't pay for them (and neither can the guardians)...now we have a problem of expectations. Sister J and I are meeting w. the Katelemwa people next Monday to see what we can work out....we should have been clear that people would have to contribute (which some cannot) - and they need help with how to use them. Bummer!!
Friday Holly and her friends left for Tanzania - quite an adventure. I left for Sorotti (NE).... got on the 6:30 a.m. matatu, got to Kampala at 9:00 and got on a bus which left at 10:30 (when full)....but it made a LOT of stops...in Mbale we had to get out and get a matatu to Sorotti...got there about 6:30 p.m. - hot and dirty!!! You get one stop to pee (outside) and at one stop where the vendors rush the bus to sell stuff - water, grilled meat on a stick, even pineapple on a stick (like the State Fair!).
It was fun to see everyone and the meal on Saturday was great....grilled turkey, mashed potatoes, fruit salad and macaroni and cheese (?). Also apple and pumpkin pies - very good!!!
Lots of good talk and played a game of bocce shoes - they didn't have balls so they improvised! Lavera's house is huge - I still like my little apartment tho'.
Left on the 6 a.m. bus Sunday(they come right to the house and pick you up)....got off in Mukono to use the internet and was back in Nkokonjeru by 4:00 - again, tired, hot and dirty!!! Went down to check out what's up at PH - Josephine is back from school and has started to work on the Christmas program set for Dec. 13 or 14....she's a real go-getter. They are even going to have a Nativity Play - our own Black Nativity!!!
I had left my Math exam to be copied when the power went back on ...got back and it wasn't on, but the lady had taken my exam to Kampala and copied it (great customer service) so we had it Monday a.m. Power was offfrom Tuesday till Tuesday nite - story is some people were cutting trees illegally and knocked down the poles and ran. The electric co. had no idea what was going on and had to survey the lines - finally found the three down poles, but had to get a crew from Jinja who came only in the afternoon every day (after lunch) till dark....so it took a week. It was very hard on the bakery!
Crazy Tuesday (yesterday)...oops...the power just went out but my draft saved to this point. YEA! Power re-appeared so am trying to finish! Back to Tuesday...it was CBR day and we got started, then the nurse came from PC to check my housing and visited at PH for a bit. Sister and I developed a job description for a business manager and then interviewed a guy who's been doing some bookkeeping for her and looks very promising. Then went w. the Sisters and Moses and Nelson out to see the little girl (16) who was at the clinic and got her legs casted. She's supposed to go to the hospital but grandparents said they couldn't go with her (you have to have someone go w. you to bathe you, do your laundry, cook, etc.) - Sister really argued w.them and finally the Grandfather said he'd go - so they will go with us Monday when we go there for our meeting! All the kids had so many jiggers on their toes - toes were almost twice normal size - has to be painful!! I soaked my feet in bleach water when I got home!! We also stopped to see another 8 year old girl w. "floppy" CP- mom said she was "born w/o bones!"....So many disabled children - seems like every other hut had a disabled child (and LOTS of children)! It's overwhelming!
Tomorrow is epilepsy clinic and Friday I'm going w. the Sisters for the weekend to Nairobi for Sr.Veronica's Final Profession of Faith...I'm excited to see Kenya (and hopefully get my passport stamped from Kenya) even if it is a short trip.
Hope all had a great Thanksgiving....be thankful for whatever you have....I am really learning to appreciate the good health of our children and grandchildren! It's not a given in many parts of the world!
Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers. Someone is waiting to use the computer (only one in the "cafe") so I'll close...more next week. Things go well....it's hot and dry but nites are still O.K. Better than the cold for me!!!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Happy THanksgiving!! November 26,2008
Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving. Holly's friends are here from the U.S. and we're planning to have dinner w. the Sisters tomorrow on the day, then I'm hoping to go up to Sorotti (northeast) to have dinner Saturday w. some other Peace Corps Volunteers....I'm not looking forward to the matatu ride, but am looking forward to the dinner and seeing friends and a different part of the country!
It's been really hot and dry - they say it will rain in a month or so......very dusty and the sun is just brutal! But at least there's no humidity!!! You just drink lots of water and sweat!
Finished reading The Shack by Wm. Pyning....very interesting. It's a different way of looking at God...Julie sent it, but I'd read about it in Newsweek. Some pats were a bit of a stretch, but I really got something out of it. Simple parts, like talking about God as pure love and the power of relationships vs. trying to go it alone and not being judemental were inspiriting. I was reading it on the matatu (I usually don't read on there because it's so bumpy) and was crying!!
Last week I spent a lot of time on shoes....up and down the hills taking the shoe flyers around and trying to close some sales at PH (no luck, but we tried). A guy came to my door at 7 a.m. one day for shoes, tried to get him some, but no one could find the key to the shoe classroom....the teacher gave it to a little boy the afternoon before to return to the convent and the boy just threw it in a basket in the cook's room and didn't tell anyone!! Finally found it and opened up but we didn't have his size and he needed them now!!!
Friday a.m. the kids were all worried because there was absolutely NO food at Providence. I had the "profit" from the baskets and decided to give it to the Sisters (Holly was O.K. w. that; no immediate plans for the Savings and Loan and this was immediate). So I gave Sr. Sara the money I had, 500,000 sh ($280) and she actually cried!! I told them it was from my church - they love you guys. Good thing I'd checked my e-mail on Weds. and got to Mukono on Thursday (I was only going to wait one hour and if it didn't leave by then I was off - it was less than an hour and there were 5 sisters on board which is always a good omen). Thanks to all who bought baskets.
Trying to get exams typed, copied (tough w/o power).....and get them all done this week. I still have to write my Math one....and then get report cards done next week.....will be glad when the term is over, but then I have a lot more free time which isn't always good.
Saturday I cleaned, and went down to PH to take Doreen for a short shopping trip to town - soap,sugar, and some pens....she really enjoys getting out and she's fun to take. Went to the wedding at 1:00 (time printed on the invitation)....the bride didn't come till 3:00!!! She walked in to the PH brass band playing "Here Comes the Bride".....really unusual. I left shortly after since I wanted to get to Kampala before dark.....Marathon weekend.
Met with the runners and "support staff" in Kampala and we had a nice dinner at an Italian restaurant Saturday nite. There were 11,000 runners tho' only about 300 in the Marathon (there was a 10K and 1/2). It got started on time and was very well done - a sea of yellow shirts. Shari and I took off up the first hill to cheer and then got on a matatu to get farther down to a place where we could get coffee and gelato!! We did lots of cheering till our PC group (5) went by....we all met again near City Square when it was just the Marathoners left....they looped a lot so we got a lot of cheering in. It was really hot - and we were standing in the shade as much as possible.
The first PC finisher came in at 3:58 and was the 9th woman!! Holly finished in a little under 6 hours...looked good at the end!!! I was glad to leave town and get home and clean up and get the dust off me!
Monday after class I was going to move tables and chairs around for the Tuesday clinic, but it was too hot! It's still O.K. at night at least.... For those of you freezing in the north I know that's not much to complain about - I wouldn't trade!
While I was gone there was a fire at the primary school across the road from my apt....it's the school where a lot of the PH kids go. Arson fire in the office that destroyed all their records - nasty move by someone.
The Clinic was yesterday and I thought it went well....we had about 50 clients. I went down about 7 a.m. and we got things organized quickly. The hospital people came about 8:45 (not bad)...had two physiotherapists and two techinicians (who fixed wheelchairs and measured people for appliances)....Moses,Kinene and Kasule took registrations and did a great job! Nelson (the OT) sat with the PT people and kept track of that end. Sr. Juliet talked to people and made the big decisions. I was the gopher - good spot for me to burn off nervous energy. There was a long wait for some but people were really patient.....now to work on the follow up. The clients were mostly children with Cerebral Palsy....cripped and many mentally impaired. One little 5 year old girl couldn't sit, but they determined it was just malnutrition....and Moses had met w. the mom last year and talked to her about nutrition! Very sad. The villages are just full of disabled and mentally impaired children - there is no end and these all need exercises, appliances, follow up - hope the parents will do it all. It's hard when you have little money and BIG families and lots of work to do. We finished about 5 p.m. and I was exhausted!!
Sister had hoped to have the kids clean chickens last nite, but at the last minute she called her buyer in Katelemwa and he couldn't take them today, so they stay alive and get fatter for awhile longer!!!
So, life continues in the slow lane....Thanksgiving isn't celebrated here. It's funny to see the Christmas Decorations at the malls in Kampala....it's really not a big holiday for Ugandans either.
Again, hope you all have a great holiday and can get where you want to go and get enough to eat!!! (usually not a problem). I'll be thinking of you!!!
It's been really hot and dry - they say it will rain in a month or so......very dusty and the sun is just brutal! But at least there's no humidity!!! You just drink lots of water and sweat!
Finished reading The Shack by Wm. Pyning....very interesting. It's a different way of looking at God...Julie sent it, but I'd read about it in Newsweek. Some pats were a bit of a stretch, but I really got something out of it. Simple parts, like talking about God as pure love and the power of relationships vs. trying to go it alone and not being judemental were inspiriting. I was reading it on the matatu (I usually don't read on there because it's so bumpy) and was crying!!
Last week I spent a lot of time on shoes....up and down the hills taking the shoe flyers around and trying to close some sales at PH (no luck, but we tried). A guy came to my door at 7 a.m. one day for shoes, tried to get him some, but no one could find the key to the shoe classroom....the teacher gave it to a little boy the afternoon before to return to the convent and the boy just threw it in a basket in the cook's room and didn't tell anyone!! Finally found it and opened up but we didn't have his size and he needed them now!!!
Friday a.m. the kids were all worried because there was absolutely NO food at Providence. I had the "profit" from the baskets and decided to give it to the Sisters (Holly was O.K. w. that; no immediate plans for the Savings and Loan and this was immediate). So I gave Sr. Sara the money I had, 500,000 sh ($280) and she actually cried!! I told them it was from my church - they love you guys. Good thing I'd checked my e-mail on Weds. and got to Mukono on Thursday (I was only going to wait one hour and if it didn't leave by then I was off - it was less than an hour and there were 5 sisters on board which is always a good omen). Thanks to all who bought baskets.
Trying to get exams typed, copied (tough w/o power).....and get them all done this week. I still have to write my Math one....and then get report cards done next week.....will be glad when the term is over, but then I have a lot more free time which isn't always good.
Saturday I cleaned, and went down to PH to take Doreen for a short shopping trip to town - soap,sugar, and some pens....she really enjoys getting out and she's fun to take. Went to the wedding at 1:00 (time printed on the invitation)....the bride didn't come till 3:00!!! She walked in to the PH brass band playing "Here Comes the Bride".....really unusual. I left shortly after since I wanted to get to Kampala before dark.....Marathon weekend.
Met with the runners and "support staff" in Kampala and we had a nice dinner at an Italian restaurant Saturday nite. There were 11,000 runners tho' only about 300 in the Marathon (there was a 10K and 1/2). It got started on time and was very well done - a sea of yellow shirts. Shari and I took off up the first hill to cheer and then got on a matatu to get farther down to a place where we could get coffee and gelato!! We did lots of cheering till our PC group (5) went by....we all met again near City Square when it was just the Marathoners left....they looped a lot so we got a lot of cheering in. It was really hot - and we were standing in the shade as much as possible.
The first PC finisher came in at 3:58 and was the 9th woman!! Holly finished in a little under 6 hours...looked good at the end!!! I was glad to leave town and get home and clean up and get the dust off me!
Monday after class I was going to move tables and chairs around for the Tuesday clinic, but it was too hot! It's still O.K. at night at least.... For those of you freezing in the north I know that's not much to complain about - I wouldn't trade!
While I was gone there was a fire at the primary school across the road from my apt....it's the school where a lot of the PH kids go. Arson fire in the office that destroyed all their records - nasty move by someone.
The Clinic was yesterday and I thought it went well....we had about 50 clients. I went down about 7 a.m. and we got things organized quickly. The hospital people came about 8:45 (not bad)...had two physiotherapists and two techinicians (who fixed wheelchairs and measured people for appliances)....Moses,Kinene and Kasule took registrations and did a great job! Nelson (the OT) sat with the PT people and kept track of that end. Sr. Juliet talked to people and made the big decisions. I was the gopher - good spot for me to burn off nervous energy. There was a long wait for some but people were really patient.....now to work on the follow up. The clients were mostly children with Cerebral Palsy....cripped and many mentally impaired. One little 5 year old girl couldn't sit, but they determined it was just malnutrition....and Moses had met w. the mom last year and talked to her about nutrition! Very sad. The villages are just full of disabled and mentally impaired children - there is no end and these all need exercises, appliances, follow up - hope the parents will do it all. It's hard when you have little money and BIG families and lots of work to do. We finished about 5 p.m. and I was exhausted!!
Sister had hoped to have the kids clean chickens last nite, but at the last minute she called her buyer in Katelemwa and he couldn't take them today, so they stay alive and get fatter for awhile longer!!!
So, life continues in the slow lane....Thanksgiving isn't celebrated here. It's funny to see the Christmas Decorations at the malls in Kampala....it's really not a big holiday for Ugandans either.
Again, hope you all have a great holiday and can get where you want to go and get enough to eat!!! (usually not a problem). I'll be thinking of you!!!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Thursday November 20
Took a quick trip to Mukono after English class (we're reviewing for exams - there will be no surprises)...to try to send my vacation request slips to PC so I can go to Kenya December 5 for Sr. Veronica's Final Profession and to Sorotti (north east) for Thanksgiving Dinner....got them scanned and attach at the Internet Cafe before I realized I'd brought my London request form and not the Sorotti one! Will have to try again! I'm going into Kampala this weekend to watch Holly run the Marathon (she said there are now 2000 runners)...so will try to get it right the next time. Sort of a last minute trip and I was rushing - never works.
Was going to do the blog tomorrow at Shari's internet cafe, but the computer is working here now, and you never know about power in Nkokonjeru! Week in review: Last Sunday we had another small group from Holland -the director of the Liliane Fund that pays school fees and other things for about 30 of our disabled residents and about 90 in the villages. She's really nice and had lots of good ideas. They are asking for better record keeping and budgeting...which we sorely need...problem is finding the time to put it together...maybe over break!
After English Monday I went up to RASD (Shari's site) to get her help making up a flyer to advertise shoes for sale. Maria's had the idea to send flyers home w. the kids from the area schools at break since many need new shoes for the new term. Time is now short to get it done.
Late afternoon Sister had all the kids who can walk (and some who can't) behind the wall planting the new sweet potato vines....a new variety w. more vitamins than the traditional white ones! She got them Sunday nite and had a guy lined up to plant them on our newly plowed acre, but he didn't show! I wanted to help, but they hill up the soil for each plant and Sr. said it was too hard....looked hard! She said I could weed when the time came....think there's a right way to do it and they all know it, and I don't!!
Tuesday at CBR we had a REALLY hyperactive little girl (7)....she was all over the place! Mom was in town trying to find the dad who apparently is from Nkokonjeru and she stopped by to see if she could get money from the Sister (no luck). There is no welfare system or child support here...if your family won't or can't help you, you are on your own.
We spent a lot of time planning for next Tuesday's Katelemwa orthopedic clinic....I want it to be organized, but better be prepared for chaos. The guys think there will be at least 50 clients!!!
Wednesday was a crazy day - Holly had to go to the PC office w. her forms for her Mt. Kilamanjaro trip the end of next week, so I took her Public Health class (exam review)....then tried to peddle flyers. Went up the BIG hill to Stella Maris Primary, but the headmistress was out; will try again. Back down. Had good luck at St. Anthony's Secondary. I am not cut out to be a salesperson! And we need to sell shoes!
Went up to RASD again so Shari (volunteer par excellence) is working on flyers announcing the times for distribution of the eyeglass that came. In March a group of opticians from the U.K. came to PH and for four days they saw people - about 100/day; two days of glasses just arrived and we need to start distributing them (after the clinic tho'). They are coming again for four days in March 2009!
After that I got on the bakery computer and typed exams, forms for the clinic and eyeglass distribution (my Excel is improving).....took them all down to the lady that does copies in town and will pick them (and the shoe flyers and eyeglass flyers) up tomorrow....lots of foot miles - I was tired!!! Went back to PH to check in and the three non-verbal kids who'd been at the Kenyan school came back for Holiday....they were SO happy to be back. They seemed better behaved (but no words)....hope they stay that way w/o the structure of the Kenya school!
Got back up to Stella Maris after English class this a.m. and Sr. Immaculate said she'd be glad to send out the flyers, too (this is easy)....will get them to her tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed that we generate some sales!
Corky sent me a crank pencil sharpener and I showed the kids (and staff) how it worked this a.m. at class....no one had seen one before!!! Really an experience....told them a lot of American's use electric ones which they just laughed at....they use razor blades, knives, or the little plastic ones that keep breaking (and I keep buying).
That's about it - Tuesday(here) was Henry's 2nd Birthday! My kids at home are really working hard to keep the Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions alive......I'm really proud of them!!!
I will really miss that, but we're planning a big PCV party in Nkokonjeru w. the PH kids and then on the 26th I'm off to London to meet the Skluzaceks....when Gail first proposed meeting I thought it was a lot for them, but now I'm so glad - gives me something to look forward to!
Take care -thanks for all the wonderful letters and for your thoughts and prayers. The basket/bead sale at church was a huge success...thanks to everyone who contributed!!! Got some money from the bank today and decided to share some of the profit w. Sr. Juliet - we're having a food crisis right now and this will really help. Thanks again!
Was going to do the blog tomorrow at Shari's internet cafe, but the computer is working here now, and you never know about power in Nkokonjeru! Week in review: Last Sunday we had another small group from Holland -the director of the Liliane Fund that pays school fees and other things for about 30 of our disabled residents and about 90 in the villages. She's really nice and had lots of good ideas. They are asking for better record keeping and budgeting...which we sorely need...problem is finding the time to put it together...maybe over break!
After English Monday I went up to RASD (Shari's site) to get her help making up a flyer to advertise shoes for sale. Maria's had the idea to send flyers home w. the kids from the area schools at break since many need new shoes for the new term. Time is now short to get it done.
Late afternoon Sister had all the kids who can walk (and some who can't) behind the wall planting the new sweet potato vines....a new variety w. more vitamins than the traditional white ones! She got them Sunday nite and had a guy lined up to plant them on our newly plowed acre, but he didn't show! I wanted to help, but they hill up the soil for each plant and Sr. said it was too hard....looked hard! She said I could weed when the time came....think there's a right way to do it and they all know it, and I don't!!
Tuesday at CBR we had a REALLY hyperactive little girl (7)....she was all over the place! Mom was in town trying to find the dad who apparently is from Nkokonjeru and she stopped by to see if she could get money from the Sister (no luck). There is no welfare system or child support here...if your family won't or can't help you, you are on your own.
We spent a lot of time planning for next Tuesday's Katelemwa orthopedic clinic....I want it to be organized, but better be prepared for chaos. The guys think there will be at least 50 clients!!!
Wednesday was a crazy day - Holly had to go to the PC office w. her forms for her Mt. Kilamanjaro trip the end of next week, so I took her Public Health class (exam review)....then tried to peddle flyers. Went up the BIG hill to Stella Maris Primary, but the headmistress was out; will try again. Back down. Had good luck at St. Anthony's Secondary. I am not cut out to be a salesperson! And we need to sell shoes!
Went up to RASD again so Shari (volunteer par excellence) is working on flyers announcing the times for distribution of the eyeglass that came. In March a group of opticians from the U.K. came to PH and for four days they saw people - about 100/day; two days of glasses just arrived and we need to start distributing them (after the clinic tho'). They are coming again for four days in March 2009!
After that I got on the bakery computer and typed exams, forms for the clinic and eyeglass distribution (my Excel is improving).....took them all down to the lady that does copies in town and will pick them (and the shoe flyers and eyeglass flyers) up tomorrow....lots of foot miles - I was tired!!! Went back to PH to check in and the three non-verbal kids who'd been at the Kenyan school came back for Holiday....they were SO happy to be back. They seemed better behaved (but no words)....hope they stay that way w/o the structure of the Kenya school!
Got back up to Stella Maris after English class this a.m. and Sr. Immaculate said she'd be glad to send out the flyers, too (this is easy)....will get them to her tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed that we generate some sales!
Corky sent me a crank pencil sharpener and I showed the kids (and staff) how it worked this a.m. at class....no one had seen one before!!! Really an experience....told them a lot of American's use electric ones which they just laughed at....they use razor blades, knives, or the little plastic ones that keep breaking (and I keep buying).
That's about it - Tuesday(here) was Henry's 2nd Birthday! My kids at home are really working hard to keep the Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions alive......I'm really proud of them!!!
I will really miss that, but we're planning a big PCV party in Nkokonjeru w. the PH kids and then on the 26th I'm off to London to meet the Skluzaceks....when Gail first proposed meeting I thought it was a lot for them, but now I'm so glad - gives me something to look forward to!
Take care -thanks for all the wonderful letters and for your thoughts and prayers. The basket/bead sale at church was a huge success...thanks to everyone who contributed!!! Got some money from the bank today and decided to share some of the profit w. Sr. Juliet - we're having a food crisis right now and this will really help. Thanks again!
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Saturday - November 14, 2008
I'm in Kampala to do a few errands and talk to the bank people - again!!! They say they will fix my balance but it never gets done!!! Very frustrating! I got a statement printed (costs 5000 sh to get a printed statment for a month) and it says I should have 300,000 more than the ATM says - they say they made a mistake, but that was over a month ago! I'm trying to utilize Ugandan patience, but it's not working well.
Couldn't blog in Nkokonjeru (no power) so will get that done, too. However, the power went out two times since I started - had to start over. We are now on a generator so hope it holds! It's always an adventure. After awhile I feel my blood pressure rising tho' and I have to quit!
We had a great group of 14 people last weekend - from Holland. They are part of an organization called Bake for Life, started by professional bakers wives and they built the bakery here in Nkokonjeru and one in Budaka (north). They like working w. the Sisters - the Sisters get things done and are honest! Holly and Shari came for supper at the convent- it was really quite a party. Sunday they went to Mass and we had breakfast and they were off to other places.....the Sisters were exhausted.
Found a hymn in the book at the chapel that I just love - we've never sung it, but it's so appropriate (will just give you the chorus):
"God Loves a Cheerful Giver"
God loves a cheerful giver, give it all you've got.
He loves to hear you laughing when you are in an akward spot.
When the odds add up against you - it's time to stop and sing - Praise God!
To praise Him is a joyous thing!
Maria called me Sunday - she got an order for 700 wine baskets from Euchimi (big supermarket in the Garden City Mall)...she has really been working, walking around Kampala trying to sell baskets at stores. And she needs them made in 2 weeks!!! She really thinks big! Made me decide to renew my efforts to get some shoes sold - however, I'm sticking locally...I can barely make myself come to Kampala! Will try flyers in the schools (her idea) to send home w. kids and they will hopefully buy new shoes for next term.
Read Judy Picoult, Change of Heart and the Alchemist by Paul Coelho - very spiritual type books but good. Monday Holly heard that the mail was finally sorted (3 weeks worth) and so she went to Mukono and returned w. a bonanza. I have a lot of magazines, papers, books, etc. to read now!!! Got a Halloween package from Julie - even more appreciated since I had to wait! Lots of grandchildren pictures too - now to re-arrange my picture gallery - my walls are getting covered! Great painting from Dylan w. fall leaves glued to it!!! I really missed fall.
Sr. Juliet called an impromptu meeting of the teachers Monday afternnoon. We decided to have a parent meeting day in December right before the kids go home, but she's disguising it as a Christmas Program (Dec. 13) so they won't try to skip out thinking she's asking for $$ - which she will! She has lined up someone to do a crash, intensive tailoring course in December hoping we can get the four 2nd year students finished - the teacher now (who I've complained about endlessly) has such low standards - they re-did their shirts and they are still bad! He said they rush - I said he should be watching their every move! There are only four of them!!!
During break she's hoping to take me to see some of the 2nd year students' homes and see what opportunities there are for employment there and what they might need to get hired/start a shop. Hope it all gets done. There hasn't been a graduation since 2003 so no rush....we'll do one when they are ready and we can figure out what's appropriate for a re-settlement package (and if we have $).
I am planning to go to Kenya for Sr. Veronica's Final Profession of Faith December 6 - Sr. Juliet has hers here Jan. 6....really a big deal. They get their rings and are official!!! But there's lots to do to get ready. Will start finals in a week and get report cards done before we go.....that should keep me busy. Plus we have the orthopedic/CP clinic sponsored by Katelemwa Hospital the 25th of December at PH - lots to get done before that, too. Holly's marathon is next Sunday and I plan to be there - have some marathon cheering experinece thanks to Gail.
I really would like to spend some of the break time (if Sr. Juliet has time) to develop a strategy for placing kids in the vocational program. Some are so behind mentally and scholastically it's not effective and bogs the program down - but they need some socialization skills so they are here. We need to be more honest w. parents and parents need to be more realistic. Some of the kids who've been in the program 4-5 years (it's a 2 year program) can't run a sewing machine or make a pair of shoes, yet (or count). They don't pay fees or any costs (everyone thinks PH is free - it's shouldn't be....but old habits die hard). Sometimes, it's just a place for parents to put kids - no cost, no hassle. I know that sounds harsh, but our capacity is so limited an there's a waiting list. It's just hard to make those cuts...or devise an alternative strategy, like having them garden, but that's hard w. their physical disabilities. I feel we need to do the best we can and limit numbers. I realize people so want to think their child can do it (and some just want someone else to take care of their disabled child). However, I'm an outsider and a temp - it will go on LONG after I'm gone.
CBR was spent trying to decide how to mobilize for the Katelemwa Clinic...I'm having a hard time getting the volunteers to limit "invitations" to people with orthopedic needs and CP. They are really into epilepsy now - but the group coming doesn't deal w. that. I told them I'll turn people away if they aren't appropriate! I don't think they believe me, but we can't waste the doctor's time or they won't come back.
Best moment of Tuesday was at the end. Got a letter from Gail's friend Betsy and her 7 year old daughter, Jessica. Jessica sent a letter and picture for Vanungi (she'd already sent her some clothes). Vanungi is 7 or 8 and is very thin....bloated stomach and thin arms and legs. She has sickle cell anemia and is pretty slow. She has a huge scar on her head from a family member hitting her w. a charcoal stove (she never goes home now). But she is always cheerful and loves to help - she also likes to sit on my lap! Vanungi wasn't sure what to make of the her"mikwano" (friend) in America - really touching.
Wednesday a.m. I heard stories abobut one of the tailoring girls and a friend who were very verbally abusive to Sr. J. I talked to the girl a long time about her life - she's an orphan and is here caring for a 23 year old uncle who is hydrocephalic, blind and has CP so she goes to school free (who doesn't?). She also has a brother here in a wheelchair and guess her parents left them after he was born. They lived with a grandmother till 2 years ago but she died...anyway, her life is pretty hard caring for a bedridden young man. But she was really out of line. Thursday found out my talk had not worked - and she and the other girl threatened to get petrol and burn PH! The other kids were very frightened and Sr. Juliet reluctantly called the police and they were put in jail. There have been a lot of school fires in Uganda in the past year started by angry students so it's a serious threat! Yesterday, Sr. J. took them up to the program in Tororo (north) run by the former Administrator of PH. It was really sad - she was doing well in tailoring but think the whole caretaking thing (she's 15) got to her and she didn't know how to get out of it. I asked her if she wanted to stop taking care of him for awhile, but she said no - maybe she didn't know what would happen if she stopped!
Thursday afternoon Moses took me out on some home visits - I love my little bike!!! What a humbling experience. Lots of children who are severely disabled in very bleak circumstances....The most upsetting was a girl who is 16 (looked 8), doesn't walk, or talk, and very skinny. The grandparents are raising 8 young grandchildren w/o much for resources (parents are "gone" - don't know if that means left or dead, it's hard to know). The saddest part was that the family was sitting all together, but she was sitting on the ground a way away! We are hoping that they will bring her on the 25th to the clinic and will bring her broken wheelchair and we will try to get it repaired. Bad situation all around. We were way out in "the bush"....I never could have found my way back on the trails w/o Moses. Little kids scream when they see me - out there they never see a muzungu!!!
Friday was a slow day - opportunity for visiting...... Am trying to re-send the picture CD - the other one never arrived (or yet)....bummer. Will get that done today so hope Gail can add some pictures to the blog.
Hope you all are well. Please be really thankful this year - there are people a lot worse off than we are!( and Uganda, esp. around here is better than many places). Thanks again for the thoughts, prayers, and letters, etc. Not sure how the holidays will go, but on Dec. 27 I'm meeting Gail, Jesse and the kids in London for a week and am really looking forward to it!!!
Couldn't blog in Nkokonjeru (no power) so will get that done, too. However, the power went out two times since I started - had to start over. We are now on a generator so hope it holds! It's always an adventure. After awhile I feel my blood pressure rising tho' and I have to quit!
We had a great group of 14 people last weekend - from Holland. They are part of an organization called Bake for Life, started by professional bakers wives and they built the bakery here in Nkokonjeru and one in Budaka (north). They like working w. the Sisters - the Sisters get things done and are honest! Holly and Shari came for supper at the convent- it was really quite a party. Sunday they went to Mass and we had breakfast and they were off to other places.....the Sisters were exhausted.
Found a hymn in the book at the chapel that I just love - we've never sung it, but it's so appropriate (will just give you the chorus):
"God Loves a Cheerful Giver"
God loves a cheerful giver, give it all you've got.
He loves to hear you laughing when you are in an akward spot.
When the odds add up against you - it's time to stop and sing - Praise God!
To praise Him is a joyous thing!
Maria called me Sunday - she got an order for 700 wine baskets from Euchimi (big supermarket in the Garden City Mall)...she has really been working, walking around Kampala trying to sell baskets at stores. And she needs them made in 2 weeks!!! She really thinks big! Made me decide to renew my efforts to get some shoes sold - however, I'm sticking locally...I can barely make myself come to Kampala! Will try flyers in the schools (her idea) to send home w. kids and they will hopefully buy new shoes for next term.
Read Judy Picoult, Change of Heart and the Alchemist by Paul Coelho - very spiritual type books but good. Monday Holly heard that the mail was finally sorted (3 weeks worth) and so she went to Mukono and returned w. a bonanza. I have a lot of magazines, papers, books, etc. to read now!!! Got a Halloween package from Julie - even more appreciated since I had to wait! Lots of grandchildren pictures too - now to re-arrange my picture gallery - my walls are getting covered! Great painting from Dylan w. fall leaves glued to it!!! I really missed fall.
Sr. Juliet called an impromptu meeting of the teachers Monday afternnoon. We decided to have a parent meeting day in December right before the kids go home, but she's disguising it as a Christmas Program (Dec. 13) so they won't try to skip out thinking she's asking for $$ - which she will! She has lined up someone to do a crash, intensive tailoring course in December hoping we can get the four 2nd year students finished - the teacher now (who I've complained about endlessly) has such low standards - they re-did their shirts and they are still bad! He said they rush - I said he should be watching their every move! There are only four of them!!!
During break she's hoping to take me to see some of the 2nd year students' homes and see what opportunities there are for employment there and what they might need to get hired/start a shop. Hope it all gets done. There hasn't been a graduation since 2003 so no rush....we'll do one when they are ready and we can figure out what's appropriate for a re-settlement package (and if we have $).
I am planning to go to Kenya for Sr. Veronica's Final Profession of Faith December 6 - Sr. Juliet has hers here Jan. 6....really a big deal. They get their rings and are official!!! But there's lots to do to get ready. Will start finals in a week and get report cards done before we go.....that should keep me busy. Plus we have the orthopedic/CP clinic sponsored by Katelemwa Hospital the 25th of December at PH - lots to get done before that, too. Holly's marathon is next Sunday and I plan to be there - have some marathon cheering experinece thanks to Gail.
I really would like to spend some of the break time (if Sr. Juliet has time) to develop a strategy for placing kids in the vocational program. Some are so behind mentally and scholastically it's not effective and bogs the program down - but they need some socialization skills so they are here. We need to be more honest w. parents and parents need to be more realistic. Some of the kids who've been in the program 4-5 years (it's a 2 year program) can't run a sewing machine or make a pair of shoes, yet (or count). They don't pay fees or any costs (everyone thinks PH is free - it's shouldn't be....but old habits die hard). Sometimes, it's just a place for parents to put kids - no cost, no hassle. I know that sounds harsh, but our capacity is so limited an there's a waiting list. It's just hard to make those cuts...or devise an alternative strategy, like having them garden, but that's hard w. their physical disabilities. I feel we need to do the best we can and limit numbers. I realize people so want to think their child can do it (and some just want someone else to take care of their disabled child). However, I'm an outsider and a temp - it will go on LONG after I'm gone.
CBR was spent trying to decide how to mobilize for the Katelemwa Clinic...I'm having a hard time getting the volunteers to limit "invitations" to people with orthopedic needs and CP. They are really into epilepsy now - but the group coming doesn't deal w. that. I told them I'll turn people away if they aren't appropriate! I don't think they believe me, but we can't waste the doctor's time or they won't come back.
Best moment of Tuesday was at the end. Got a letter from Gail's friend Betsy and her 7 year old daughter, Jessica. Jessica sent a letter and picture for Vanungi (she'd already sent her some clothes). Vanungi is 7 or 8 and is very thin....bloated stomach and thin arms and legs. She has sickle cell anemia and is pretty slow. She has a huge scar on her head from a family member hitting her w. a charcoal stove (she never goes home now). But she is always cheerful and loves to help - she also likes to sit on my lap! Vanungi wasn't sure what to make of the her"mikwano" (friend) in America - really touching.
Wednesday a.m. I heard stories abobut one of the tailoring girls and a friend who were very verbally abusive to Sr. J. I talked to the girl a long time about her life - she's an orphan and is here caring for a 23 year old uncle who is hydrocephalic, blind and has CP so she goes to school free (who doesn't?). She also has a brother here in a wheelchair and guess her parents left them after he was born. They lived with a grandmother till 2 years ago but she died...anyway, her life is pretty hard caring for a bedridden young man. But she was really out of line. Thursday found out my talk had not worked - and she and the other girl threatened to get petrol and burn PH! The other kids were very frightened and Sr. Juliet reluctantly called the police and they were put in jail. There have been a lot of school fires in Uganda in the past year started by angry students so it's a serious threat! Yesterday, Sr. J. took them up to the program in Tororo (north) run by the former Administrator of PH. It was really sad - she was doing well in tailoring but think the whole caretaking thing (she's 15) got to her and she didn't know how to get out of it. I asked her if she wanted to stop taking care of him for awhile, but she said no - maybe she didn't know what would happen if she stopped!
Thursday afternoon Moses took me out on some home visits - I love my little bike!!! What a humbling experience. Lots of children who are severely disabled in very bleak circumstances....The most upsetting was a girl who is 16 (looked 8), doesn't walk, or talk, and very skinny. The grandparents are raising 8 young grandchildren w/o much for resources (parents are "gone" - don't know if that means left or dead, it's hard to know). The saddest part was that the family was sitting all together, but she was sitting on the ground a way away! We are hoping that they will bring her on the 25th to the clinic and will bring her broken wheelchair and we will try to get it repaired. Bad situation all around. We were way out in "the bush"....I never could have found my way back on the trails w/o Moses. Little kids scream when they see me - out there they never see a muzungu!!!
Friday was a slow day - opportunity for visiting...... Am trying to re-send the picture CD - the other one never arrived (or yet)....bummer. Will get that done today so hope Gail can add some pictures to the blog.
Hope you all are well. Please be really thankful this year - there are people a lot worse off than we are!( and Uganda, esp. around here is better than many places). Thanks again for the thoughts, prayers, and letters, etc. Not sure how the holidays will go, but on Dec. 27 I'm meeting Gail, Jesse and the kids in London for a week and am really looking forward to it!!!
Friday, November 7, 2008
Post Election Thoughts - 8/11/08
Holly and I are in Mukono using the internet - we've been w/o power for a bit in Nkokonjeru....had our great breakfast at the Colline hotel (made to order omlettes)....life is good.
I wanted to listen all nite to the radio for election coverage, but fell asleep....Holly called about 5:30 a.m. to tell me that Obama had taken Minnesota! Gail called at 6:30 to say the referendum passed (YEA - that was my biggest concern) and that she's on the School Board!!! I went to Mass at 6:45 to say "Thank you". Then went down to PH and watched Obama's acceptance speech on the Sisters' TV - he seemed so calm!!! Read in the Kampala paper yesterday that the Onion (American newspaper) had the headline "Black Man Gets Worse Job in the U.S." How true!
The Sisters were really excited - some of their funnier comments: Sr. Goretti "Won't the other man (McCain) be angry and cause trouble?", and "How will they make the man in the house now (Bush) leave?". Sr. Melody said "Obama only had 388 votes - is that all the people in America that vote?". Sr. Ephram (convent), "So, now Obama is the President of North and South America"? But everyone was happy (except Sr. Juliet who thought McCain had more experience and would be better). Obamamania is crazy here - but the most commented on fact was the peacefulness of the transfer and the lack of arguing....really was an interesting twist and made me VERY proud to be an American!!! Holly really missed being in Chicago - and Jean was in New York on business for the week.
Wednesday got busy quickly - I was watching them load scrap metal(and helping a bit) from the shed they cleaned out and Sr. J. decided that since the little kids were off school, I should take them up to the hospital to have HIV testing (she'd talked to them about it)...SO, I ended up w. 35 children (w. assorted disabilities, wheelchairs and crutches) - quite the sight I'm sure!!! They were really good (have to have blood drawn) - some of the little girls sat on my lap - fortunately the results are fast. They do a rapid dipstick test and if that's negative you are O.K. - all were negative - another thing to thank God for!
Our mail situation is still bad (told the story last time about the postmaster in Mukono getting fired - he opened up his secretarial business/copy shop two doors from the P.O.), but the new postmaster is really slow....we have gotten no mail for 3 weeks - it's annoying and scary!!! The old crew was so friendly and efficient....not sure what's the problem.
Thursday we had a good English class tho' people are starting to come later and later...frustrating. Going to give "treats" to the on-time people and see if it helps. We had a new nurse for the epilepsy clinic and she came 2 hours later than Florence does. It always amazes people how long it takes to get out here - but she was really good and very efficient - like her a lot!!! She was very direct w. people - some come because there children have some serious mental impairment and they want a "fix" and she explained there is none - she even diagnosed some as ADD - and said they should be on Ritalin but they have to go to Kampala to get it and it's 600sh/pill (30 cents) so that's not going to happen....kids just won't go to school.
Friday a.m. Holly knocked on my door at 6:30 and I was still sleeping - I was tired! She was going running and wanted to know if I wanted to bike along - I did and it was just beautiful - the hills were covered in mist. It's hard to take pictures that captures it.....when we first got here we used to take early a.m. walks - very inspiring! Rest of the day was very peaceful - I got my clothes washed, went down to PH and it rained for a few hours so I was trapped and had to eat lunch w. the sisters (funny how that works...I'm such a mooch). Big visitor day tomorrow - 14 people from Holland - the group that sponsored the construction of the bakery. The kids are practicing lots of songs and dances - they love it!!!
Had a mouse/rat in my apartment last nite....ugh. It came in under the door (lots of room) but I yelled and he exited again quickly. Reminded me of when Corky and I were in Texas (his AF basic training) and lived in a tiny apt. (smaller than the one I have now) and I was so bored I was feeding a cute little "mouse" that would come to our back sliding door - well, he grew and Corky said "IT'S A RAT!" and got our landlord to come and shoot it!!! You really have to watch out for rats and snakes here - Sr. Melody uncovered some snakes yesterday under a mat, and LOTS of rats in the shed we cleaned.....just a hazard of the location.
So, that's it for now.....will go back and be part of the festivities....should be fun! So, excited about the election - esp. the referendum passing!!!
Take care all - thanks again for your thoughts ( I'm sure there will be a BIG bunch of letters at some point when they get things straightened out). I really miss the little kids - say "goodnight" to their pictures just before I shut off the lights. Know they are growing up and doing lots of fun things - but this has been a good adventure for me. Really learning to appreciate things I took for granted.....
I wanted to listen all nite to the radio for election coverage, but fell asleep....Holly called about 5:30 a.m. to tell me that Obama had taken Minnesota! Gail called at 6:30 to say the referendum passed (YEA - that was my biggest concern) and that she's on the School Board!!! I went to Mass at 6:45 to say "Thank you". Then went down to PH and watched Obama's acceptance speech on the Sisters' TV - he seemed so calm!!! Read in the Kampala paper yesterday that the Onion (American newspaper) had the headline "Black Man Gets Worse Job in the U.S." How true!
The Sisters were really excited - some of their funnier comments: Sr. Goretti "Won't the other man (McCain) be angry and cause trouble?", and "How will they make the man in the house now (Bush) leave?". Sr. Melody said "Obama only had 388 votes - is that all the people in America that vote?". Sr. Ephram (convent), "So, now Obama is the President of North and South America"? But everyone was happy (except Sr. Juliet who thought McCain had more experience and would be better). Obamamania is crazy here - but the most commented on fact was the peacefulness of the transfer and the lack of arguing....really was an interesting twist and made me VERY proud to be an American!!! Holly really missed being in Chicago - and Jean was in New York on business for the week.
Wednesday got busy quickly - I was watching them load scrap metal(and helping a bit) from the shed they cleaned out and Sr. J. decided that since the little kids were off school, I should take them up to the hospital to have HIV testing (she'd talked to them about it)...SO, I ended up w. 35 children (w. assorted disabilities, wheelchairs and crutches) - quite the sight I'm sure!!! They were really good (have to have blood drawn) - some of the little girls sat on my lap - fortunately the results are fast. They do a rapid dipstick test and if that's negative you are O.K. - all were negative - another thing to thank God for!
Our mail situation is still bad (told the story last time about the postmaster in Mukono getting fired - he opened up his secretarial business/copy shop two doors from the P.O.), but the new postmaster is really slow....we have gotten no mail for 3 weeks - it's annoying and scary!!! The old crew was so friendly and efficient....not sure what's the problem.
Thursday we had a good English class tho' people are starting to come later and later...frustrating. Going to give "treats" to the on-time people and see if it helps. We had a new nurse for the epilepsy clinic and she came 2 hours later than Florence does. It always amazes people how long it takes to get out here - but she was really good and very efficient - like her a lot!!! She was very direct w. people - some come because there children have some serious mental impairment and they want a "fix" and she explained there is none - she even diagnosed some as ADD - and said they should be on Ritalin but they have to go to Kampala to get it and it's 600sh/pill (30 cents) so that's not going to happen....kids just won't go to school.
Friday a.m. Holly knocked on my door at 6:30 and I was still sleeping - I was tired! She was going running and wanted to know if I wanted to bike along - I did and it was just beautiful - the hills were covered in mist. It's hard to take pictures that captures it.....when we first got here we used to take early a.m. walks - very inspiring! Rest of the day was very peaceful - I got my clothes washed, went down to PH and it rained for a few hours so I was trapped and had to eat lunch w. the sisters (funny how that works...I'm such a mooch). Big visitor day tomorrow - 14 people from Holland - the group that sponsored the construction of the bakery. The kids are practicing lots of songs and dances - they love it!!!
Had a mouse/rat in my apartment last nite....ugh. It came in under the door (lots of room) but I yelled and he exited again quickly. Reminded me of when Corky and I were in Texas (his AF basic training) and lived in a tiny apt. (smaller than the one I have now) and I was so bored I was feeding a cute little "mouse" that would come to our back sliding door - well, he grew and Corky said "IT'S A RAT!" and got our landlord to come and shoot it!!! You really have to watch out for rats and snakes here - Sr. Melody uncovered some snakes yesterday under a mat, and LOTS of rats in the shed we cleaned.....just a hazard of the location.
So, that's it for now.....will go back and be part of the festivities....should be fun! So, excited about the election - esp. the referendum passing!!!
Take care all - thanks again for your thoughts ( I'm sure there will be a BIG bunch of letters at some point when they get things straightened out). I really miss the little kids - say "goodnight" to their pictures just before I shut off the lights. Know they are growing up and doing lots of fun things - but this has been a good adventure for me. Really learning to appreciate things I took for granted.....
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Election Day - November 4, 2008
I'm on the bakery computer sort of late, but I'm having a hard time settling down w. the election going on. I decided to sit it out in Nkokonjeru - I think I'll remember this one a long time regardless of the outcome. Have my fingers (and toes) crossed for the MLHS school referendum...lots of people have worked really hard on it! It's already 6:30 p.m. but only 8:30 a.m. in Montgomery - so hope you are all voting. My ballot is long on it's way!
When I left last I was attending the orthopedic clinic with Dr. Antonio in Mukon - it was amazing. It was so well organized....they had records and X-rays and everything! The people also looked much more prosperous than our village folk. At present they don't have room for us but they said they'd keep us in mind...it would be so much easier for our parents to have their children checked and do their post-surgery treatment there. Seeing all the deformities etc. really made me appreciate that all my children and grandchildren so far are whole and healthy - maybe that's why I'm here - to learn to appreciate things!!!
Friday I made trouble again - saw the shirts the kids had made for Tailoring 2 and was appalled....seams unfinished, puckers everywhere, white thread on blue shirts....showed them to the Sisters and Sister Juliet had a "talk" with the teacher - made the kids rip the shirts apart to start over - they are not ready to graduate in December - lots of work to be done!
Starting to make some inquiries about selling shoes...Sister J is taking some sandals to a shop in Kampala. Then we start at the local schools...she's worried about taking too many orders; I'm worried about not selling!
Holly brought me fresh green beans from the Hospital garden - great w. my basil and dill - wonder if I'll be able to go back to popcorn for supper!!!
An elderly sister died and they brought the body from up north - at 9 p.m. there was a terrible siren and the church bells started ringing and I thought there was a fire...ran outside in my pjs and saw the sisters welcoming the casket - their all nite vigil is the ultimate in "sisterhood".
Just after I went to bed, Shari and Holly came by and put a "ghost" on my door - really a neat thing - don't know how I'd make it w/o them! (a request: if anyone sees that awful, sugary Brach's autumn mix - w. the pumpkins and bats on sale, you can send it our way - we miss it!!!)
Saturday a.m. I biked w. Holly - only 8 miles and then went with her and Shari to a baking class. Great group of village women - about 25 - who really enjoyed the lesson and just being together (not working) and having lunch!
Had to have another jigger operation - this time by Sr. Sara - I seem to attract them. She cut the skin on my toe w. a razor blade and dug at it w. a safety pin - Sr. Goretti finally pulled it out - they were sutiably impressed by the worm - "a big one, full of eggs"!!!
Sunday there was a huge storm during Mass - lots of wind and rain. Later in the day I went with Holly and Shari to a one year memorial service for the mom of one of Holly's Project Hope volunteers and then biked out to meet Moses at his home to do some home visits.....saw the little malnourished girl (really sad - the mom was out drinking when we were there). In the little time we had we saw about 5 clients - one was a 17 year old girl (about the size of a 5 yr. old) with Cerebral Palsy who was in a Budda like position all the time from contractures...but she was clean and seemed well cared for. Normal till 2 - then got a fever and her limbs contracted. Same store over and over!!! Homes are tiny one or two room mud houses - and lots of children peeking out all over (I'm quite a rock star here). Left Moses at 6:30 and had to bike FAST to get home by 7:00 (dark) - it was really fun to book - got a lot of stares (always do, but this was really a sight).
Holly came over w. a great picture Maria had gotten me for my BD - it had a long journey from Kbale - framed by someone else, carried by Holly and Shari home in the rain - typical Ugandan story! It's a women sitting in the middle of two women nursing - really beautiful. The words are in Lugandan and I asked Kassuli to translate them - the first part says (literally) "a mother is like a prison guard"...I was a bit put off by that, but he said it means every vigilant, watchful and alert!! Then the 2nd part says that breastfeeding is good for mother and child. Really thoughtful.
Holly also brought over some great chocolate chip cookies they made on their gas stove - resourceful Americans!!! They felt sorry for me because I was whining about missing Tucker's Baptism.....I'm always whining about something it seems!
Am reading Three Cups of Tea - about a man who built schools in Pakistan and Afganistan - incredible story (but not the best writing). He was a former mountain climber who just started a foundation on his own.
Monday the topic at English was the election - kids are really interested. After class someone wrote on the board the interesting question - "If Obama is elected, how will America be different"? We talked about that Tuesday - really, initially, not a lot - which is the beauty of America! Quite Monday - Sister got a man to plow an acre behind the wall for potatoes...a little gray tractor that reminded me of my dad's little Ford (except this one was Chinese)....the kids were fascinated by it!!! Big event of the day....who needs T.V.?
Later in the afternoon Sr. J got one of her "bugs" and decided to clean out a shed and a storeroom - got lots of interesting scrap metal from discarded wheelchair and car parts. We burned a lot of old clothing - but they saved the left over gallon oil jugs to wash out and use for water (ugh)....gerry cans are precious I guess!
Week so far is going well....hope to watch the sister's TV tomorrow a.m.
When I left last I was attending the orthopedic clinic with Dr. Antonio in Mukon - it was amazing. It was so well organized....they had records and X-rays and everything! The people also looked much more prosperous than our village folk. At present they don't have room for us but they said they'd keep us in mind...it would be so much easier for our parents to have their children checked and do their post-surgery treatment there. Seeing all the deformities etc. really made me appreciate that all my children and grandchildren so far are whole and healthy - maybe that's why I'm here - to learn to appreciate things!!!
Friday I made trouble again - saw the shirts the kids had made for Tailoring 2 and was appalled....seams unfinished, puckers everywhere, white thread on blue shirts....showed them to the Sisters and Sister Juliet had a "talk" with the teacher - made the kids rip the shirts apart to start over - they are not ready to graduate in December - lots of work to be done!
Starting to make some inquiries about selling shoes...Sister J is taking some sandals to a shop in Kampala. Then we start at the local schools...she's worried about taking too many orders; I'm worried about not selling!
Holly brought me fresh green beans from the Hospital garden - great w. my basil and dill - wonder if I'll be able to go back to popcorn for supper!!!
An elderly sister died and they brought the body from up north - at 9 p.m. there was a terrible siren and the church bells started ringing and I thought there was a fire...ran outside in my pjs and saw the sisters welcoming the casket - their all nite vigil is the ultimate in "sisterhood".
Just after I went to bed, Shari and Holly came by and put a "ghost" on my door - really a neat thing - don't know how I'd make it w/o them! (a request: if anyone sees that awful, sugary Brach's autumn mix - w. the pumpkins and bats on sale, you can send it our way - we miss it!!!)
Saturday a.m. I biked w. Holly - only 8 miles and then went with her and Shari to a baking class. Great group of village women - about 25 - who really enjoyed the lesson and just being together (not working) and having lunch!
Had to have another jigger operation - this time by Sr. Sara - I seem to attract them. She cut the skin on my toe w. a razor blade and dug at it w. a safety pin - Sr. Goretti finally pulled it out - they were sutiably impressed by the worm - "a big one, full of eggs"!!!
Sunday there was a huge storm during Mass - lots of wind and rain. Later in the day I went with Holly and Shari to a one year memorial service for the mom of one of Holly's Project Hope volunteers and then biked out to meet Moses at his home to do some home visits.....saw the little malnourished girl (really sad - the mom was out drinking when we were there). In the little time we had we saw about 5 clients - one was a 17 year old girl (about the size of a 5 yr. old) with Cerebral Palsy who was in a Budda like position all the time from contractures...but she was clean and seemed well cared for. Normal till 2 - then got a fever and her limbs contracted. Same store over and over!!! Homes are tiny one or two room mud houses - and lots of children peeking out all over (I'm quite a rock star here). Left Moses at 6:30 and had to bike FAST to get home by 7:00 (dark) - it was really fun to book - got a lot of stares (always do, but this was really a sight).
Holly came over w. a great picture Maria had gotten me for my BD - it had a long journey from Kbale - framed by someone else, carried by Holly and Shari home in the rain - typical Ugandan story! It's a women sitting in the middle of two women nursing - really beautiful. The words are in Lugandan and I asked Kassuli to translate them - the first part says (literally) "a mother is like a prison guard"...I was a bit put off by that, but he said it means every vigilant, watchful and alert!! Then the 2nd part says that breastfeeding is good for mother and child. Really thoughtful.
Holly also brought over some great chocolate chip cookies they made on their gas stove - resourceful Americans!!! They felt sorry for me because I was whining about missing Tucker's Baptism.....I'm always whining about something it seems!
Am reading Three Cups of Tea - about a man who built schools in Pakistan and Afganistan - incredible story (but not the best writing). He was a former mountain climber who just started a foundation on his own.
Monday the topic at English was the election - kids are really interested. After class someone wrote on the board the interesting question - "If Obama is elected, how will America be different"? We talked about that Tuesday - really, initially, not a lot - which is the beauty of America! Quite Monday - Sister got a man to plow an acre behind the wall for potatoes...a little gray tractor that reminded me of my dad's little Ford (except this one was Chinese)....the kids were fascinated by it!!! Big event of the day....who needs T.V.?
Later in the afternoon Sr. J got one of her "bugs" and decided to clean out a shed and a storeroom - got lots of interesting scrap metal from discarded wheelchair and car parts. We burned a lot of old clothing - but they saved the left over gallon oil jugs to wash out and use for water (ugh)....gerry cans are precious I guess!
Week so far is going well....hope to watch the sister's TV tomorrow a.m.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
WELCOME BAILY JO - and Happy Halloween
Yes, Curt and Jamie had their baby after a LONG day on October 27 - Baily Jo, 8 lb. 1 oz. So, the excitement is now over (for this year?). Four new grandchildren since June - total of 9 - all healthy and fine!!!
Since I've been back at Providence Home seems like there is so much more to write about - the place keeps everyone busy! I returned from training last Friday night - was so glad to be back to my apartment. I enjoy seeing everyone but I can only take so much socializing and sitting. Workshop was interesting, but I thought the material - about Life Skills Training - was pretty Americanized...workbook was written by Americans, basically for Americans. Ugandan counterparts contributed some,but felt they were holding back their opinions - we are definitely more vocal!!! Maria came Saturday around 9 a.m. So fun to have her here! Kids and Sisters really love her (me too). We had the mosquito net presentation ceremony in the afternoon - lots of dancing, speeches, etc. The kids love it! Maria is sending Gail some pictures and maybe some camera video - it's so hard to describe the festivities. The kids love to dance - there was even an elderly sister who came who really got into it!!! One of the shoe making students who is 25 and can't walk "danced" a long time on his hands!! Seeing all the people having so much fun is really rewarding - plus Maria donated sodas, cupcakes and hard candies! Much appreciated - along w. the mosquito nets. After it was over Kassuli managed the radio/CD player as DJ and the kids stayed and danced for another hour till it was time for 6 p.m. prayers (didn't leave quickly). Bakery people also got nets, and the priests and the elderly sisters - Sr. Felicitius gave a really nice talk about Maria's generosity - think she was embarrassed but it was a great gift.
Sunday Maria left very early to try to get back to Kbale - she made it to Kampala on time,but her bus broke down and it was a 14+ hour trip home! I went to Mass at the chapel, had a bagel from New York Kitchen, did some class preparation (going to read an article about malaria since we just got nets), re-did the Small Project Assistance grant budget (didn't know the limit was $2500 - I'd asked for $3300) , went to town to get new rulers - the kids love to use them but I've been "losing" some each coloring session! They love to color and use markers - I had a talk w. them about stealing today - the kids turned in one little boy in a wheelchair who was trying to take a ruler! They need them for school, but.... While in town (random aren't I), bought a fresh pineapple (.60), a papaya (.30) and yogurt (.30)!
I bought a bunch of books in Kampala - basic readers (i.e., like Dick and Jane, but Opio and Apio). I was able to find five books in Lugandan and the same book in English - they were a hit!!!
The mat making teacher didn't come (told her not to come Sat. but thought she'd come Sunday). Little kids had a good time coloring anyway and Kassuli had the radio out in the hall again so the big ones were still dancing!!
I finished "In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz" by Michala Wrong - very interesting Congo story of 1960 to late 1990s...Mobutu era (Kurtz is the antagonist in Heart of Darkness)...story of his kleptocracy - rule of theft. There are a lot more popular books on the Congo than on Uganda unfortunately. There's trouble in the east of the Congo again.
Monday, after English, we went on on of our marathon trips to Kampala. Didn't leave till 11:00 (flat tire on the truck). I'll try to tell the details briefly - on the way throught the sugar cane fields (short cut) to Lugazi Sr. J stopped a guy on a bicycle w. two huge bags of charcoal (they make it at home) and bought them, then we stopped at the Lugazi hospital to drop off a resident who needs a checkup there and insulin, dropped off another Sister in Seeta, left Sr. Veronica at ShopRite at Logogo to check out the new Bakery Truck, Sr. J and I went to Barclay's bank to get her on the PH account signature card, meanwhile Sr. V had forgotten bread to give the chairman of the board so the driver took it to her and we waited at the bank (the director of the Cheshire program stopped by to chat). Went to another suburb to Mukisa Foundation - they support our OT and have a day program for severely handicapped children - great work! Then we went to the Bishop's home to drop off the charcoal and pick up some communion wine - stopped for some yogurt since it was 4 (lunch - I always take Luna bars with me to stave off starvation). Sr. V was on her own trek and went home by matatu but Sr. J and I continued on to Katelemwa Hospital to meet w. the director about our NGO status, stopped there by the hospital's outreach director who wants to come to PH on the 25th to do a clinic (great). On the way back we stopped to see the place where the red truck is being repaired in Kampala, stopped in Mukono to get some bananas for matoke, then back to Lugazi for sugar for the bakery - got back to PH at 9!!! I'm exhausted and I just rode along!!!
Tuesday Corky called at 6:30 a.m. (your 10:30 p.m. Monday) and said Jamie had been in the hospital all day but no progress. I went to the Sister's 6:45 a.m. Mass and when I got back there was a message that he'd called - called him and learned about Bailey Jo's brith!!! YEA!!
We had our monthly CBR meeting - lots to cover - upcoming clinic and lots of pending activities. We need to start up outreach to get people to come to the Katelemwa clinic - they said they could see up to 60!! (team of four people). Moses told me the sad story of a neighbor who has a 2 year old that is severely malnourished - mom drinks all day and leaves her and dad is mainly absent. He's threatened to tell the police. He's taking me to see her on Sunday.
Math class was good - getting better - but I'm tired by 2:30 when it starts! I might be helping the slow ones too much, but many barely can count. Nice visit w. Holly in the p.m. as I tried to use the hospital internet (but it was busy)....
Wednesday a.m. got to use the Bakery computer - yea!!! They paid for another month. Then went to check on the tailoring class and got VERY angry about the mess in the cupboard, missing equipment (scissors, machine parts) and just generally sloppy work! The teacher said that last week the kids "broke" 10 sewing machine needles - he needs to supervise them....I'm not sure some of the stuff isn't going to his tailoring business. I really lost it - think I scared them. I feel bad today...not sure how to make them more accountable w/o sitting there all afternoon. Sr. Goretti said she'd stop by when she feels better - she's has a BAD chesty cough since training.
In the afternoon Holly and I went to Mukono - she mailed baskets and I sent my Christmas box....we were shocked to find that the old postmaster has been fired.....he admitted he was running a side business in the office - a secretarial pool - and the guy who sat in the back building distributing the mail is in jail!!! They say they don't have a key for the back building where the mail is sorted and they store packages so they haven't used the back building for a week - so no one is getting mail and we can't get packages - for a week!!! Don't people complain?
Internet cafe was too slow to use so we returned to Nkokonjeru. I'm back today to go to see some people in Mukono at a rehabilitation center - Sr. J was going to come with me, but she was in Kampala again yesterday for another long day, and is going to stay at PH and do some work. So, gave the kids an English assignment, left and am at the internet cafe earlier - it's faster early. Then I'll be off to Cherub. Dr. Antonio is there today for a monthly orthopedic clinic we are hoping we can access - much shorter trip for our parents than the hospitals in Kampala. Still would have to go into town for surgery, but would know what their options are after assessment.
Again, Congrats Curt and Jamie - I'm looking forward to getting some pictures. Gail sent some of Ellie - also one of Naomi's mom (Renee) holding Henry - I'm so jealous!!!
Hope things go well for the elections. I thought about going into Kampala to hear results, but would have to file paperwork for vacation days and it's not worth that, so will listen to BBC - might sneak on the Sister's TV Wednesday a.m. Good luck Montgomery/Lonsdale w. the school referendum and Gail with your bid for School Board!!!
Thanks again all for your letters (hope we can get into the PO soon - new guy appears to never have been in a PO before ???). I really appreciate all your thoughts, prayers, letters, everything...it's been a tough fall, but at least I'm keeping busy and feel semi-productive!!!
Happy Halloween!
Since I've been back at Providence Home seems like there is so much more to write about - the place keeps everyone busy! I returned from training last Friday night - was so glad to be back to my apartment. I enjoy seeing everyone but I can only take so much socializing and sitting. Workshop was interesting, but I thought the material - about Life Skills Training - was pretty Americanized...workbook was written by Americans, basically for Americans. Ugandan counterparts contributed some,but felt they were holding back their opinions - we are definitely more vocal!!! Maria came Saturday around 9 a.m. So fun to have her here! Kids and Sisters really love her (me too). We had the mosquito net presentation ceremony in the afternoon - lots of dancing, speeches, etc. The kids love it! Maria is sending Gail some pictures and maybe some camera video - it's so hard to describe the festivities. The kids love to dance - there was even an elderly sister who came who really got into it!!! One of the shoe making students who is 25 and can't walk "danced" a long time on his hands!! Seeing all the people having so much fun is really rewarding - plus Maria donated sodas, cupcakes and hard candies! Much appreciated - along w. the mosquito nets. After it was over Kassuli managed the radio/CD player as DJ and the kids stayed and danced for another hour till it was time for 6 p.m. prayers (didn't leave quickly). Bakery people also got nets, and the priests and the elderly sisters - Sr. Felicitius gave a really nice talk about Maria's generosity - think she was embarrassed but it was a great gift.
Sunday Maria left very early to try to get back to Kbale - she made it to Kampala on time,but her bus broke down and it was a 14+ hour trip home! I went to Mass at the chapel, had a bagel from New York Kitchen, did some class preparation (going to read an article about malaria since we just got nets), re-did the Small Project Assistance grant budget (didn't know the limit was $2500 - I'd asked for $3300) , went to town to get new rulers - the kids love to use them but I've been "losing" some each coloring session! They love to color and use markers - I had a talk w. them about stealing today - the kids turned in one little boy in a wheelchair who was trying to take a ruler! They need them for school, but.... While in town (random aren't I), bought a fresh pineapple (.60), a papaya (.30) and yogurt (.30)!
I bought a bunch of books in Kampala - basic readers (i.e., like Dick and Jane, but Opio and Apio). I was able to find five books in Lugandan and the same book in English - they were a hit!!!
The mat making teacher didn't come (told her not to come Sat. but thought she'd come Sunday). Little kids had a good time coloring anyway and Kassuli had the radio out in the hall again so the big ones were still dancing!!
I finished "In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz" by Michala Wrong - very interesting Congo story of 1960 to late 1990s...Mobutu era (Kurtz is the antagonist in Heart of Darkness)...story of his kleptocracy - rule of theft. There are a lot more popular books on the Congo than on Uganda unfortunately. There's trouble in the east of the Congo again.
Monday, after English, we went on on of our marathon trips to Kampala. Didn't leave till 11:00 (flat tire on the truck). I'll try to tell the details briefly - on the way throught the sugar cane fields (short cut) to Lugazi Sr. J stopped a guy on a bicycle w. two huge bags of charcoal (they make it at home) and bought them, then we stopped at the Lugazi hospital to drop off a resident who needs a checkup there and insulin, dropped off another Sister in Seeta, left Sr. Veronica at ShopRite at Logogo to check out the new Bakery Truck, Sr. J and I went to Barclay's bank to get her on the PH account signature card, meanwhile Sr. V had forgotten bread to give the chairman of the board so the driver took it to her and we waited at the bank (the director of the Cheshire program stopped by to chat). Went to another suburb to Mukisa Foundation - they support our OT and have a day program for severely handicapped children - great work! Then we went to the Bishop's home to drop off the charcoal and pick up some communion wine - stopped for some yogurt since it was 4 (lunch - I always take Luna bars with me to stave off starvation). Sr. V was on her own trek and went home by matatu but Sr. J and I continued on to Katelemwa Hospital to meet w. the director about our NGO status, stopped there by the hospital's outreach director who wants to come to PH on the 25th to do a clinic (great). On the way back we stopped to see the place where the red truck is being repaired in Kampala, stopped in Mukono to get some bananas for matoke, then back to Lugazi for sugar for the bakery - got back to PH at 9!!! I'm exhausted and I just rode along!!!
Tuesday Corky called at 6:30 a.m. (your 10:30 p.m. Monday) and said Jamie had been in the hospital all day but no progress. I went to the Sister's 6:45 a.m. Mass and when I got back there was a message that he'd called - called him and learned about Bailey Jo's brith!!! YEA!!
We had our monthly CBR meeting - lots to cover - upcoming clinic and lots of pending activities. We need to start up outreach to get people to come to the Katelemwa clinic - they said they could see up to 60!! (team of four people). Moses told me the sad story of a neighbor who has a 2 year old that is severely malnourished - mom drinks all day and leaves her and dad is mainly absent. He's threatened to tell the police. He's taking me to see her on Sunday.
Math class was good - getting better - but I'm tired by 2:30 when it starts! I might be helping the slow ones too much, but many barely can count. Nice visit w. Holly in the p.m. as I tried to use the hospital internet (but it was busy)....
Wednesday a.m. got to use the Bakery computer - yea!!! They paid for another month. Then went to check on the tailoring class and got VERY angry about the mess in the cupboard, missing equipment (scissors, machine parts) and just generally sloppy work! The teacher said that last week the kids "broke" 10 sewing machine needles - he needs to supervise them....I'm not sure some of the stuff isn't going to his tailoring business. I really lost it - think I scared them. I feel bad today...not sure how to make them more accountable w/o sitting there all afternoon. Sr. Goretti said she'd stop by when she feels better - she's has a BAD chesty cough since training.
In the afternoon Holly and I went to Mukono - she mailed baskets and I sent my Christmas box....we were shocked to find that the old postmaster has been fired.....he admitted he was running a side business in the office - a secretarial pool - and the guy who sat in the back building distributing the mail is in jail!!! They say they don't have a key for the back building where the mail is sorted and they store packages so they haven't used the back building for a week - so no one is getting mail and we can't get packages - for a week!!! Don't people complain?
Internet cafe was too slow to use so we returned to Nkokonjeru. I'm back today to go to see some people in Mukono at a rehabilitation center - Sr. J was going to come with me, but she was in Kampala again yesterday for another long day, and is going to stay at PH and do some work. So, gave the kids an English assignment, left and am at the internet cafe earlier - it's faster early. Then I'll be off to Cherub. Dr. Antonio is there today for a monthly orthopedic clinic we are hoping we can access - much shorter trip for our parents than the hospitals in Kampala. Still would have to go into town for surgery, but would know what their options are after assessment.
Again, Congrats Curt and Jamie - I'm looking forward to getting some pictures. Gail sent some of Ellie - also one of Naomi's mom (Renee) holding Henry - I'm so jealous!!!
Hope things go well for the elections. I thought about going into Kampala to hear results, but would have to file paperwork for vacation days and it's not worth that, so will listen to BBC - might sneak on the Sister's TV Wednesday a.m. Good luck Montgomery/Lonsdale w. the school referendum and Gail with your bid for School Board!!!
Thanks again all for your letters (hope we can get into the PO soon - new guy appears to never have been in a PO before ???). I really appreciate all your thoughts, prayers, letters, everything...it's been a tough fall, but at least I'm keeping busy and feel semi-productive!!!
Happy Halloween!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Last, but certainly not least...
Curt and Jamie welcomed their baby girl Monday night around 10:30. Welcome to Bailey Jo and congratulations to the entire family! I will post pictures when I get them, but I'm sure she's beautiful. That brings the Westerman Baby Craze to a close for 2008...
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Shortest Blog Ever - 10-22-08
We are in Kampala at a training in how to teach Life Skills. It's only Weds. nite but I came to the mall to get the clasp on my watch fixed - have almost lost it many times! Stores here close at 6!!
Thought I'd get a short chapter in so I don't have to worry about it later in the week.
Last Saturday I biked 18-20 miles following Holly running - no one really keeps track of mileage here, but we got to Kisoga and back. It was hot and dusty on the return trip. Holly is really doing well....she's registered for the Kampala Marathon now (Nov. 23). They only allow 200 people!!!
Birthday went very well...had a lovely dinner with Holly and Shari and they gave me a great clock...they covered the numbers w. white paper circles with some of my more prominent obsessions.....5 was "get up" and 9 was "go to sleep"...some others were "read a novel start to finish", "re-arrange pictures of grandkids", " update blog", "write letters"....all the things I obsess about getting done!
Sunday Providence Home was responsible for singing, etc. at the mass at the Sister's chapel...amazing watching all the kids come - the church is not at all handicapped accessible so they had to be carried up, or crawl up and the wheelchairs lifted after them...quite the project. But they sang beautifully - I nearly cried several times. The matrons and the cook carried up the gifts - baskets of fruit, etc. Very nicely done.
Sunday right after church we had really heavy rain - but power was still on. Sister Goretti and I left around 3:00 for Kampala and trainng. This is just for Health and Economic Development volunteers and counterparts. Education group comes in December during school break. Rooming w. Maria - early to bed and early to rise!! Good to see her.
We're using a Life Skills Training book designed by PCVs- I'm a little concerned that it has a distinctly American slant on things. They aren't as open here as we like to be in the U.S. Also, it stresses discussion style learning - also, something everyone is not comfortable with. Think some of the counterparts are a little intimidated by the material and by the was we Americans rush in w. our opinions and comments! Ugandans are more thoughtful (and speak longer).
The Hotel has a small internet cafe but it's not working too well....has a great pool tho' and sauna. We went in last nite tho' it's been cloudy and cool. Sr. Goretti has a bad cold but is still sitting in on all the sessions - that obedience thing! I'd never make a nun!!! We had to do a short presentation on Peer Pressure which went pretty good I think - she's really a good speaker! We are all giving all the presentations - practice for when we actually do teach life skills. Holly and Shari have already done some and HOlly is encorporating some into her Public Health class at PH.
Food has been fabulous - last nite they even made mini pizzas! They also have matoke but they are really trying to accomodate us crazy Americans.
We are done Friday afternoon and can go back then or Sat. a.m. Maria is coming with and we're doing a little presentation to giveout the mosquito nets she and her friends donated to PH on Saturday afternoon. Next week is back to "normal"....I really am missing PH and hope all is well...even missing teaching (never thought I'd say that). I'm not very good sitting and listening all day!
No word from Curt and Jamie - I think she may be induced today. Wish them luck!!!
That's it - not much happening when I'm not at PH!!! Hope everyone is well....I'll write more next week, but for now will sign off.
Thought I'd get a short chapter in so I don't have to worry about it later in the week.
Last Saturday I biked 18-20 miles following Holly running - no one really keeps track of mileage here, but we got to Kisoga and back. It was hot and dusty on the return trip. Holly is really doing well....she's registered for the Kampala Marathon now (Nov. 23). They only allow 200 people!!!
Birthday went very well...had a lovely dinner with Holly and Shari and they gave me a great clock...they covered the numbers w. white paper circles with some of my more prominent obsessions.....5 was "get up" and 9 was "go to sleep"...some others were "read a novel start to finish", "re-arrange pictures of grandkids", " update blog", "write letters"....all the things I obsess about getting done!
Sunday Providence Home was responsible for singing, etc. at the mass at the Sister's chapel...amazing watching all the kids come - the church is not at all handicapped accessible so they had to be carried up, or crawl up and the wheelchairs lifted after them...quite the project. But they sang beautifully - I nearly cried several times. The matrons and the cook carried up the gifts - baskets of fruit, etc. Very nicely done.
Sunday right after church we had really heavy rain - but power was still on. Sister Goretti and I left around 3:00 for Kampala and trainng. This is just for Health and Economic Development volunteers and counterparts. Education group comes in December during school break. Rooming w. Maria - early to bed and early to rise!! Good to see her.
We're using a Life Skills Training book designed by PCVs- I'm a little concerned that it has a distinctly American slant on things. They aren't as open here as we like to be in the U.S. Also, it stresses discussion style learning - also, something everyone is not comfortable with. Think some of the counterparts are a little intimidated by the material and by the was we Americans rush in w. our opinions and comments! Ugandans are more thoughtful (and speak longer).
The Hotel has a small internet cafe but it's not working too well....has a great pool tho' and sauna. We went in last nite tho' it's been cloudy and cool. Sr. Goretti has a bad cold but is still sitting in on all the sessions - that obedience thing! I'd never make a nun!!! We had to do a short presentation on Peer Pressure which went pretty good I think - she's really a good speaker! We are all giving all the presentations - practice for when we actually do teach life skills. Holly and Shari have already done some and HOlly is encorporating some into her Public Health class at PH.
Food has been fabulous - last nite they even made mini pizzas! They also have matoke but they are really trying to accomodate us crazy Americans.
We are done Friday afternoon and can go back then or Sat. a.m. Maria is coming with and we're doing a little presentation to giveout the mosquito nets she and her friends donated to PH on Saturday afternoon. Next week is back to "normal"....I really am missing PH and hope all is well...even missing teaching (never thought I'd say that). I'm not very good sitting and listening all day!
No word from Curt and Jamie - I think she may be induced today. Wish them luck!!!
That's it - not much happening when I'm not at PH!!! Hope everyone is well....I'll write more next week, but for now will sign off.
Friday, October 17, 2008
10-17-08 Happy Birthday to ME!
Well, guess what day today is?? Having a really good BD...spent the morning at Providence Home getting things organized for next week (we have a PC training and will be gone all next week - have to have enough chalk, etc. ready and get the tailoring class with enough to work on - I sort of dole things out so they don't waste so much!). Now I'm up at Shari's site, RASD, at the Internet Cafe (Shari's laptop) doing the blog and checking e-mails.
Got a lot of cards at the P.O. in Mukono yesterday and a GREAT pkg from the kids....some cute clothes, candy, AND lots of pictures and two CDs of the little kids.....I actually spent almost two hours reading letters and looking at things last nite. THANKS. Hope to see the CD tonite - when Shari brings her laptop home from the Internet Cafe - very busy piece of machinery!
Back to last week when I left off (not like this is some exciting serial story)....no funny matatu story, but a funny walking one. Last Sat. I was in Mukono and got a 4 l. (gallon +) can of blackboard paint (smallest size available). Then, at the P.O. I got two heavy boxes (one for me, one for Shari)....plus my backpack had groceries. I was having trouble navigating to the taxi park and thought maybe I could get the paint into the backpack. It went in, but was so stuffed, the zipper opened just as I was bending down to pick up the two boxes - the paint rolled out, hit my head and bounced on the street! It was badly dented (from my head?) but thankfully didn't split. So, I continued on w. the two boxes in my arms and stopping every 50 feet to switch the paint to another hand so I didn't lose my fingers. Must have been a funny site!!
What is blackboard paint you ask? Real blackboards are really expensive here so people either use cement and charcoal, or tack up a piece of plywood and paint it w. blackboard paint. I've wanted to put a blackboard in the shoe making room because Didas never gets to use a classroom (always full)...but the local carpenter didn't know where to get plywood (didn't want to).....Finally, Didas went to Kampala himself and brought back a piece about 4' by 6' (on top of a matatu)...he's my hero! It's up and painted now and looks great....it was quite a project. Sheet is not very nice and was 37,000 sh. ($23). The low table is done and it really works slick for Doreen to use from her wheelchair....can't believe it wasn't done before! Uganda is definitely not "disability sensitive".
Got back in time Sat. to help w. craft class..the kids are getting into the mat making. Some neat mats coming together.
Sunday Mass was special for the local schools' Test Takers - kids in S-4. To advance in Secondary they have to three weeks of tests in 10 subjects!! If you don't pass you can go to Vocational School or you're done. If you pass you can go on to S5 and S6 and maybe university. It's a LOT of pressure!
We had a huge thunderstorm Sunday a.m. - power went out (expected)....it's been hotter and more humid - afternoons are uncomfortable,but still nice at nite. I worked on class preparation, but no copying or no computer - darn! Helped w. mat making and the little kids did coloring - quite the group working in the hall.
Monday a.m. I was reading my Bible at the table (6:30 a.m.) - power still out - and a big old bug dropped out of my window onto the table - I didn't think it was a cockroach but a big, slow praying mantis type thing - the screens have BIG holes! I didn't even get up! But, later saw it on the floor and it was a cockroach - and I got up fast and DOOMed it!! Ugh, I hate cockroaches.
We had a fun English class - did vocabulary words on land forms (mountain, river, etc) and I had them use markers to draw a landscape and label at least five terms. Most just wanted to copy my sample but a few had real artistic talent!
Took some of the girls down to the market in the afternoon to get stuff for the tailoring class...got some material and a charcoal iron (you put hot coals in the bottom and use it - quite heavy and really does a nice job). Still have a little left from Anne's donation to the Tailoring group - we're using it carefully! We had to get some more palm fronds too for mat making - the girls seemed to have fun shopping - girls' nite out.
Tueday a.m. Sr. Juliet took over the Agriculture class and they started some garden plots right in the middle of the compound so everyone can participate....she is really happiest digging and growing. I had gotten some seeds in Kampala and also gave them the ones I brought and some I got from Jessica - they aren't sure what radishes are, but they are willing to try!!!
At CBR we spent our "free" time - when there are no clients - trying to decide what direction we're going to go - no real consensus but lots of good ideas. The guys really like doing the outreach, and I'm O.K. w. that, but instead of trying to always refer people for surgery, want them to work on what people can do at home (exercises, etc.) and how they can help families integrate the disabled into their communities. Moses' niece (the little 7 year old w. the bad burns) died Saturday at the hospital in Kampala - very sad....it had been almost 6 weeks.
Moses and I continued our argument about Barack Obama being an African - the lineage here is patriarchial.....I keep saying he's an AMERICAN!
Power was back on at 2:00 but not time to make copies of worksheets for Math so I had to punt - not my strong suit. They are amazingly patient!
I got some more baskets for sale at church from the women's shop - neat patterns I thought. The women really appreciate the sales. Weds. was a much slower day - actually kind of nice. Kassuli is working with Nelson's kids and doing a great job! I alternated between classrooms just checking on everyone. Typed up my notes for a possible small grant for some vocational school equipment. Sr. J is going to a workshop and she said that will give her time to finally read all the stuff she needs to edit (including the website narrative - did I every say that Gail and China are working on a PH website - www.providencehomeuganda.org - it's still a work in progress, but nice to have it there).
In the afternoon Sr. J took me and Sr. Sara to see the property PH owns that she'd like to clear for gardens, growing corn for animals and an animal area - shed and grazing area. It was quite a way and the sun was HOT. Went into "the bush"as they say - reminded me of the woods at Grandmas w. lots fewer trees - lots of brush and weeds. We stopped to talk to an old woman in her home - she was excited to see a muzungu - they always thingk we're around to give out money!! Sorry!
Had a really nice dinner w. Holly and Shari and some other guests - pumpkin (squash) soup, biscuits and salad - great food, good company - they are good cooks!!! Holly is still training for the marathon...am hoping to bike along Sat. when she goes for a 16 mile run. She's really dedicated.
Thursday's English class went well - maybe I am getting the hang of this. Had a short story about farming and made copies for everyone w. questions. Did vocabulary words first and went REALLY slow and helped them w. the answers - but it went well!!! Told the kids Holly and I wouldn't be around at all next week for classes and they seemed genuinely sad - guess we are amusing!! Kind of nice to know they will miss us.
Holly and I went to Mukono to the P.O. and had a good lunch at a local restaurant....fried chicken,chips (fries) and Pepsi - good!!! Had dinner w. Shari and Holly again - there's a guy from the UC Davis group that's still traveling around Africa and he's here for a bit and he made beef terriyaki - very good. Meat twice in one day - what will my stomach think!. I contributed pineapple and red licorice - I'm such a cook!
Nice day today and the girls are making me a special dinner - fajitas! They are really trying to make my BD special and I appreciate it a lot!!
Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. We get lots of news about the economy and the election (pretty skewed tho' I think). Holly actually got up Thursday at 4 a.m. to listen to the debate. I got my absentee ballot Thursday and think I'm more excited to vote for the school referendum and for Gail for School Board than the Presidential election. Since it's so late I'll have to take it to the Embassy next week to get it back on time....but it's exciting to vote from here!
Take care - hope you are enjoying the fall. When I talked to Corky on Monday he said it was getting cold - and asked how I heat my apt. Well, heat is not necessary!!! Everything is relative!
Waiting for Curt and Jamie (or Corky) to call with their new little girl....bet they are waiting too!!!
Monday was Corky's BD - and the local bunch was going to Basil's in Northfield for pizza - I'm jealous!!!
Got a lot of cards at the P.O. in Mukono yesterday and a GREAT pkg from the kids....some cute clothes, candy, AND lots of pictures and two CDs of the little kids.....I actually spent almost two hours reading letters and looking at things last nite. THANKS. Hope to see the CD tonite - when Shari brings her laptop home from the Internet Cafe - very busy piece of machinery!
Back to last week when I left off (not like this is some exciting serial story)....no funny matatu story, but a funny walking one. Last Sat. I was in Mukono and got a 4 l. (gallon +) can of blackboard paint (smallest size available). Then, at the P.O. I got two heavy boxes (one for me, one for Shari)....plus my backpack had groceries. I was having trouble navigating to the taxi park and thought maybe I could get the paint into the backpack. It went in, but was so stuffed, the zipper opened just as I was bending down to pick up the two boxes - the paint rolled out, hit my head and bounced on the street! It was badly dented (from my head?) but thankfully didn't split. So, I continued on w. the two boxes in my arms and stopping every 50 feet to switch the paint to another hand so I didn't lose my fingers. Must have been a funny site!!
What is blackboard paint you ask? Real blackboards are really expensive here so people either use cement and charcoal, or tack up a piece of plywood and paint it w. blackboard paint. I've wanted to put a blackboard in the shoe making room because Didas never gets to use a classroom (always full)...but the local carpenter didn't know where to get plywood (didn't want to).....Finally, Didas went to Kampala himself and brought back a piece about 4' by 6' (on top of a matatu)...he's my hero! It's up and painted now and looks great....it was quite a project. Sheet is not very nice and was 37,000 sh. ($23). The low table is done and it really works slick for Doreen to use from her wheelchair....can't believe it wasn't done before! Uganda is definitely not "disability sensitive".
Got back in time Sat. to help w. craft class..the kids are getting into the mat making. Some neat mats coming together.
Sunday Mass was special for the local schools' Test Takers - kids in S-4. To advance in Secondary they have to three weeks of tests in 10 subjects!! If you don't pass you can go to Vocational School or you're done. If you pass you can go on to S5 and S6 and maybe university. It's a LOT of pressure!
We had a huge thunderstorm Sunday a.m. - power went out (expected)....it's been hotter and more humid - afternoons are uncomfortable,but still nice at nite. I worked on class preparation, but no copying or no computer - darn! Helped w. mat making and the little kids did coloring - quite the group working in the hall.
Monday a.m. I was reading my Bible at the table (6:30 a.m.) - power still out - and a big old bug dropped out of my window onto the table - I didn't think it was a cockroach but a big, slow praying mantis type thing - the screens have BIG holes! I didn't even get up! But, later saw it on the floor and it was a cockroach - and I got up fast and DOOMed it!! Ugh, I hate cockroaches.
We had a fun English class - did vocabulary words on land forms (mountain, river, etc) and I had them use markers to draw a landscape and label at least five terms. Most just wanted to copy my sample but a few had real artistic talent!
Took some of the girls down to the market in the afternoon to get stuff for the tailoring class...got some material and a charcoal iron (you put hot coals in the bottom and use it - quite heavy and really does a nice job). Still have a little left from Anne's donation to the Tailoring group - we're using it carefully! We had to get some more palm fronds too for mat making - the girls seemed to have fun shopping - girls' nite out.
Tueday a.m. Sr. Juliet took over the Agriculture class and they started some garden plots right in the middle of the compound so everyone can participate....she is really happiest digging and growing. I had gotten some seeds in Kampala and also gave them the ones I brought and some I got from Jessica - they aren't sure what radishes are, but they are willing to try!!!
At CBR we spent our "free" time - when there are no clients - trying to decide what direction we're going to go - no real consensus but lots of good ideas. The guys really like doing the outreach, and I'm O.K. w. that, but instead of trying to always refer people for surgery, want them to work on what people can do at home (exercises, etc.) and how they can help families integrate the disabled into their communities. Moses' niece (the little 7 year old w. the bad burns) died Saturday at the hospital in Kampala - very sad....it had been almost 6 weeks.
Moses and I continued our argument about Barack Obama being an African - the lineage here is patriarchial.....I keep saying he's an AMERICAN!
Power was back on at 2:00 but not time to make copies of worksheets for Math so I had to punt - not my strong suit. They are amazingly patient!
I got some more baskets for sale at church from the women's shop - neat patterns I thought. The women really appreciate the sales. Weds. was a much slower day - actually kind of nice. Kassuli is working with Nelson's kids and doing a great job! I alternated between classrooms just checking on everyone. Typed up my notes for a possible small grant for some vocational school equipment. Sr. J is going to a workshop and she said that will give her time to finally read all the stuff she needs to edit (including the website narrative - did I every say that Gail and China are working on a PH website - www.providencehomeuganda.org - it's still a work in progress, but nice to have it there).
In the afternoon Sr. J took me and Sr. Sara to see the property PH owns that she'd like to clear for gardens, growing corn for animals and an animal area - shed and grazing area. It was quite a way and the sun was HOT. Went into "the bush"as they say - reminded me of the woods at Grandmas w. lots fewer trees - lots of brush and weeds. We stopped to talk to an old woman in her home - she was excited to see a muzungu - they always thingk we're around to give out money!! Sorry!
Had a really nice dinner w. Holly and Shari and some other guests - pumpkin (squash) soup, biscuits and salad - great food, good company - they are good cooks!!! Holly is still training for the marathon...am hoping to bike along Sat. when she goes for a 16 mile run. She's really dedicated.
Thursday's English class went well - maybe I am getting the hang of this. Had a short story about farming and made copies for everyone w. questions. Did vocabulary words first and went REALLY slow and helped them w. the answers - but it went well!!! Told the kids Holly and I wouldn't be around at all next week for classes and they seemed genuinely sad - guess we are amusing!! Kind of nice to know they will miss us.
Holly and I went to Mukono to the P.O. and had a good lunch at a local restaurant....fried chicken,chips (fries) and Pepsi - good!!! Had dinner w. Shari and Holly again - there's a guy from the UC Davis group that's still traveling around Africa and he's here for a bit and he made beef terriyaki - very good. Meat twice in one day - what will my stomach think!. I contributed pineapple and red licorice - I'm such a cook!
Nice day today and the girls are making me a special dinner - fajitas! They are really trying to make my BD special and I appreciate it a lot!!
Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. We get lots of news about the economy and the election (pretty skewed tho' I think). Holly actually got up Thursday at 4 a.m. to listen to the debate. I got my absentee ballot Thursday and think I'm more excited to vote for the school referendum and for Gail for School Board than the Presidential election. Since it's so late I'll have to take it to the Embassy next week to get it back on time....but it's exciting to vote from here!
Take care - hope you are enjoying the fall. When I talked to Corky on Monday he said it was getting cold - and asked how I heat my apt. Well, heat is not necessary!!! Everything is relative!
Waiting for Curt and Jamie (or Corky) to call with their new little girl....bet they are waiting too!!!
Monday was Corky's BD - and the local bunch was going to Basil's in Northfield for pizza - I'm jealous!!!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Welcome Eleanor May!
I see someone posted on October 7th so bet Gail put on some pictures of Bert and Naomi's new baby - Eleanor May - Bert said he's still infatuated w. Ellie May from Beverly Hillbilies!!! She looks beautiful - takes after Naomi!!
Today, October 10, marks 6 months at site - 1/4 done - still have 18 mos. to go and that seems long, but it has gone fast!!!
Always a matatu story - when I was coming back from Mukono last Sunday, the road was really greasy from the rain and someone was on the other side and our matatu slipped into the ditch...leaning at a 45 degree angle against the bank!!! I was getting claustrophobic, but people appeared quickly to push - it took awhile, but we got back on the road. I was impressed w. all the good samaritans, but saw the conductor giving all of them a coin - still, I appreciated their coming!!
Monday was National Teacher's Day and no school in most schools, but we had school - kids get bored if we don't. Wrote out a very brief summary of Uganda's recent history (Thursday is another holiday - Ugandan Independence Day) and we read it and discussed (a little - they are not big on discussion). Found out after that I got a few facts wrong - i.e. said 1952 instead of l962! Will have to correct that before the quiz.
Was going to play w. Nelson's kids, but there were too many other kids around and I got roped into being hostess for two elderly Irish nuns (one of whom works in Uganda) who came to Nkokonjeru to see Mother Kevin's grave (our Irish founder). They were in their 70s, I'd guess, but really fun to talk to. One had been in Uganda during the Idi Amin days and said the country was destroyed - she's also been in Zimbabwe. Had conversations ranging from the Pope to Mother Theresa's "dark night of the soul"! Then had tea w. a Ugandan priest who was visiting - he's been a missionary in So. America for three years and studied in America and was also very interesting. Guess I'm the social director - or the least busy person at Providence Home.
Had a nice walk w. Holly in the evening - haven't been getting them in lately.
Tuesday was CBR day - busy one! Started at 8:30 w. a mom with a cleft palate baby that we referred for surgery. Moses had to leave with some consultants for the Cheshire Inclusive Education program but Kassuli was great! He did an amazing job talking to a mom with a 2 year old who has CP - pretty severe - can't hold his head up, but she said she'd been doing exercises and he was improving! Congratulated her a lot. He can really relate because he's disabled, too (polio at age 3). Another man was here on a mission to get University fees for one of his 11 children. Dr. Antonio's wife is finding someone in Italy who will do it but needed a letter from Sister Juliet recommending the family and some background. He's written up such a sad letter - has 3 severaly disabled children (one died in March), he had to quit his job, his wife left them - but he's sending them all to school! Pretty impressive - he cuts and sells firewood! I want to go out and meet them all. Success and misery hand in hand.
Math class went well - Corky called me during class to tell me about Bert and Naomi's baby - who at that time was named TBD. I was so excited and the kids kept staring at me!!! Got some great packages from Mukono via Holly and she even got me some yogurt - good day all around!
Wednesday I finally got to spend some time w. Nelson's kids (the really handicapped ones - many are non verbal and either don't walk or use walkers and wheelchairs - significant mental retardation in most). In the afternoon I did some typing for Sr. J. and even designed a new form AND was able to rotate it (to "landscape") on my own!!! I'm impressed w. me!
One of "Nelson's kids" is a boy Andrew (about 13) who I just love - he's very crippled (CP?) but walks lurching forward and is very smart - loves to do math problems. He's hard to understand but speaks English - lots of palsy, too. He drools a lot but has a WONDERFUL smile and disposition. Wednesday tho' he smelled really bad (sweat and urine) and I asked Sr. G if he had a caretaker child and she said "no". After Mass Wednesday nite I thought he looked better and mentioned it to him, but he told Sr. Goretti he would bathe but doesn't have a basin or soap! I felt just awful for talking about his odor in front of him forgetting he speaks English! So I got him a basin and soap to ease my conscience. A lot of the kids don't bathe well or wash their clothes well....you get used to it usually.
THursday was Independence Day for Uganda and no school! Sr. Juliet and I were going to Kampala to see Dr. Antonio and his wife to deliver some papers so they could proceed w. fund gathering...bank account nos., registration, etc. We were going to leave at 8 but of course it was 10 before we left Providence Home.....series of visitors, crises, etc. We were walking down to the Nkoko taxi park and met the driver (Hassan) leaving the convent with the convent car...going to Mukono to pick up something. He gave us a lift to Mukono and in Mukono as we were walking to the taxi stage (pick up area)and another car stopped - it was the regional superior sister who Sr. J had to see today anyway. She offered us a ride to their home so she and Sr. J could meet and then she let us use her car and driver to go to Dr. Antonio's home (UP the hill). Providential day!! Dr. Antonio and his wife and four kids (12-18) ive in a nice home owened by an Italian currently in Thailand. Got our paperwork done and had a wonderful lunch - 3 kinds of pasta, beef fillet, green salad , freshly grated parmesan cheese (from Italy), ricotta and bread, plus fruit and Italian coffee and chocolate - a real feast!! And such nice people. Walked w. Anna to the main road and got a matatu to the dreaded taxi park, then home to Nkokonjeru. Lots of time to talk w. Sr. J - a bonus! Very fun and productive day!!!
During our stay I had a nice talk w. Anna about malnutrition in Uganda. I'd read that 38% of the children here are mentally impaired to some degree becasue of malnutrition....and Dr. said it's the cause of many deformities (also, prenatal malnutrition). 38%!!! She's advocating mashed ground nuts in porridge, adding greens (which are plentiful, but not used), and also, they have tiny, dried silver fish that are pretty inexpensive and could be eaten whole in sauce over posho to increase nutritiional value drastically - they have them in huge piles in the market - smell bad, but guess they are good for you. People just need to change their children's eating habits. Her idea is to start some mothers using better nutrition and get them to convince other mothers....there's nothing like a mom on a mission!
There were no celebrations or flage for Independence Day in our travels , ...all the stores were open except government offices, banks and schools!! I missed the flags and frieworks! Sr. J. said people are too poor to care...they just keep working!
One of our conversation topics on the trip was the PH gardens which Sr. is really working hard on - she thinks PH could be growing all their own corn and vegetables by mid 2009! Grow cassava, beans, banana trees, maize (corn), and yams (we need to add green and ground nuts, too). The big garden is about 20 minutes away by truck....property of a recently deceased Chairman of the PH Board he just lets us use. Sister would like to have the kids work in the garden more, but transport is a problem...we have an OLD red pickup but it needs a lot of work - battery, tire, turn signal, etc., so she has to hire gardners. Don't think the kids could do it all anyway since they only work on Saturday and in the a.m.
Now it's Friday and I'm finishing up. Worked w. Nelson's kids for a few hours and then Sr. J got the idea to REALLY clean Nelson's room - she's like a tornado. Had a bunch of the girls sweeping and scrubbing. It really looks nice now!
So, things are continuing to go well. The 19th-25thwe have PC training on Life Skills at a hotel near Kampala and Sr. Goretti is going w. me to the training....she's so much fun! Hope she enjoys it. Continue very busy with school and CBR and planning new things.
Not good news on BBC about the American economy - it's really scary in fact. Am patiently waiting for my absentee ballot - at this point will probably take it to the Embassy to assure it gets to Mn. on time. Lots to vote on! School Board, School referendum - plus the Presidentail contest.
Things go well....I'm really bummed about not seeing the new babies - and the old kids. Help to keep busy and feel like I am making some contribution here. Thanks again for your kind thoughts and prayers.
Today, October 10, marks 6 months at site - 1/4 done - still have 18 mos. to go and that seems long, but it has gone fast!!!
Always a matatu story - when I was coming back from Mukono last Sunday, the road was really greasy from the rain and someone was on the other side and our matatu slipped into the ditch...leaning at a 45 degree angle against the bank!!! I was getting claustrophobic, but people appeared quickly to push - it took awhile, but we got back on the road. I was impressed w. all the good samaritans, but saw the conductor giving all of them a coin - still, I appreciated their coming!!
Monday was National Teacher's Day and no school in most schools, but we had school - kids get bored if we don't. Wrote out a very brief summary of Uganda's recent history (Thursday is another holiday - Ugandan Independence Day) and we read it and discussed (a little - they are not big on discussion). Found out after that I got a few facts wrong - i.e. said 1952 instead of l962! Will have to correct that before the quiz.
Was going to play w. Nelson's kids, but there were too many other kids around and I got roped into being hostess for two elderly Irish nuns (one of whom works in Uganda) who came to Nkokonjeru to see Mother Kevin's grave (our Irish founder). They were in their 70s, I'd guess, but really fun to talk to. One had been in Uganda during the Idi Amin days and said the country was destroyed - she's also been in Zimbabwe. Had conversations ranging from the Pope to Mother Theresa's "dark night of the soul"! Then had tea w. a Ugandan priest who was visiting - he's been a missionary in So. America for three years and studied in America and was also very interesting. Guess I'm the social director - or the least busy person at Providence Home.
Had a nice walk w. Holly in the evening - haven't been getting them in lately.
Tuesday was CBR day - busy one! Started at 8:30 w. a mom with a cleft palate baby that we referred for surgery. Moses had to leave with some consultants for the Cheshire Inclusive Education program but Kassuli was great! He did an amazing job talking to a mom with a 2 year old who has CP - pretty severe - can't hold his head up, but she said she'd been doing exercises and he was improving! Congratulated her a lot. He can really relate because he's disabled, too (polio at age 3). Another man was here on a mission to get University fees for one of his 11 children. Dr. Antonio's wife is finding someone in Italy who will do it but needed a letter from Sister Juliet recommending the family and some background. He's written up such a sad letter - has 3 severaly disabled children (one died in March), he had to quit his job, his wife left them - but he's sending them all to school! Pretty impressive - he cuts and sells firewood! I want to go out and meet them all. Success and misery hand in hand.
Math class went well - Corky called me during class to tell me about Bert and Naomi's baby - who at that time was named TBD. I was so excited and the kids kept staring at me!!! Got some great packages from Mukono via Holly and she even got me some yogurt - good day all around!
Wednesday I finally got to spend some time w. Nelson's kids (the really handicapped ones - many are non verbal and either don't walk or use walkers and wheelchairs - significant mental retardation in most). In the afternoon I did some typing for Sr. J. and even designed a new form AND was able to rotate it (to "landscape") on my own!!! I'm impressed w. me!
One of "Nelson's kids" is a boy Andrew (about 13) who I just love - he's very crippled (CP?) but walks lurching forward and is very smart - loves to do math problems. He's hard to understand but speaks English - lots of palsy, too. He drools a lot but has a WONDERFUL smile and disposition. Wednesday tho' he smelled really bad (sweat and urine) and I asked Sr. G if he had a caretaker child and she said "no". After Mass Wednesday nite I thought he looked better and mentioned it to him, but he told Sr. Goretti he would bathe but doesn't have a basin or soap! I felt just awful for talking about his odor in front of him forgetting he speaks English! So I got him a basin and soap to ease my conscience. A lot of the kids don't bathe well or wash their clothes well....you get used to it usually.
THursday was Independence Day for Uganda and no school! Sr. Juliet and I were going to Kampala to see Dr. Antonio and his wife to deliver some papers so they could proceed w. fund gathering...bank account nos., registration, etc. We were going to leave at 8 but of course it was 10 before we left Providence Home.....series of visitors, crises, etc. We were walking down to the Nkoko taxi park and met the driver (Hassan) leaving the convent with the convent car...going to Mukono to pick up something. He gave us a lift to Mukono and in Mukono as we were walking to the taxi stage (pick up area)and another car stopped - it was the regional superior sister who Sr. J had to see today anyway. She offered us a ride to their home so she and Sr. J could meet and then she let us use her car and driver to go to Dr. Antonio's home (UP the hill). Providential day!! Dr. Antonio and his wife and four kids (12-18) ive in a nice home owened by an Italian currently in Thailand. Got our paperwork done and had a wonderful lunch - 3 kinds of pasta, beef fillet, green salad , freshly grated parmesan cheese (from Italy), ricotta and bread, plus fruit and Italian coffee and chocolate - a real feast!! And such nice people. Walked w. Anna to the main road and got a matatu to the dreaded taxi park, then home to Nkokonjeru. Lots of time to talk w. Sr. J - a bonus! Very fun and productive day!!!
During our stay I had a nice talk w. Anna about malnutrition in Uganda. I'd read that 38% of the children here are mentally impaired to some degree becasue of malnutrition....and Dr. said it's the cause of many deformities (also, prenatal malnutrition). 38%!!! She's advocating mashed ground nuts in porridge, adding greens (which are plentiful, but not used), and also, they have tiny, dried silver fish that are pretty inexpensive and could be eaten whole in sauce over posho to increase nutritiional value drastically - they have them in huge piles in the market - smell bad, but guess they are good for you. People just need to change their children's eating habits. Her idea is to start some mothers using better nutrition and get them to convince other mothers....there's nothing like a mom on a mission!
There were no celebrations or flage for Independence Day in our travels , ...all the stores were open except government offices, banks and schools!! I missed the flags and frieworks! Sr. J. said people are too poor to care...they just keep working!
One of our conversation topics on the trip was the PH gardens which Sr. is really working hard on - she thinks PH could be growing all their own corn and vegetables by mid 2009! Grow cassava, beans, banana trees, maize (corn), and yams (we need to add green and ground nuts, too). The big garden is about 20 minutes away by truck....property of a recently deceased Chairman of the PH Board he just lets us use. Sister would like to have the kids work in the garden more, but transport is a problem...we have an OLD red pickup but it needs a lot of work - battery, tire, turn signal, etc., so she has to hire gardners. Don't think the kids could do it all anyway since they only work on Saturday and in the a.m.
Now it's Friday and I'm finishing up. Worked w. Nelson's kids for a few hours and then Sr. J got the idea to REALLY clean Nelson's room - she's like a tornado. Had a bunch of the girls sweeping and scrubbing. It really looks nice now!
So, things are continuing to go well. The 19th-25thwe have PC training on Life Skills at a hotel near Kampala and Sr. Goretti is going w. me to the training....she's so much fun! Hope she enjoys it. Continue very busy with school and CBR and planning new things.
Not good news on BBC about the American economy - it's really scary in fact. Am patiently waiting for my absentee ballot - at this point will probably take it to the Embassy to assure it gets to Mn. on time. Lots to vote on! School Board, School referendum - plus the Presidentail contest.
Things go well....I'm really bummed about not seeing the new babies - and the old kids. Help to keep busy and feel like I am making some contribution here. Thanks again for your kind thoughts and prayers.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Henry's a Big Brother!
Congratulations Bert and Naomi!
Eleanor May Westerman
October 6 at 12:30 pm
6lbs 5oz and 20 inches
October 6 at 12:30 pm
6lbs 5oz and 20 inches
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Sunday Afternoon - Oct. 5, 2008
I'm back in Mukono - we've been out of power in Nkokonjeru for a few days so wanted to come to blog (and get some groceries). I really try to get the blog done before Sunday so I won't get obsessive, but it didn't work this week! Started out the week very wordy, so get a cup of tea!
Last Saturday I was in Mukono to check the P.O. and shop (peanut butter, etc.) Sent the picture CD so there should be some new pictures in a few weeks! I hadn't taken many in awhile but got activated again! Got back Saturday afternoon for the craft class (2:30). Margaret (the teacher) didn't tell me that the dyed palm fronds we'd purchased needed to be hung to dry and so they were pretty moldy!! Got them scraped off and we used the best and may try to re-dye the others!! Lessons to be learned!
Short aside: Compliments here are sometimes hard to read. Saying "you're fat" is a compliment to women...big women are prized. There are signs all over advertising for herbalists who can guarantee to make you "Grow Big Bums", "Gain Weight Quickly" - it's a sign of prosperity and health (people with HIV, before drugs, really wasted away). The other day Sr. Juliet (with a big smile) told me that my English class "was like a REAL class" - I said "it is a real class" - sort of ruined the compliment for her. The vocational program was really let go the past few years - they had other problems and prioities, but it's starting to come around. Monday a.m. the kids teased me because I was 5 minutes late!!! P.S. Sr. Juliet also told me I'd gained weight while she was gone and looked better (I have).
Sr. Goretti stopped to see my apartment after Mass on Sunday and said it was "very organized" (and "very nice"). They get a kick out my folders, lists and notebooks!!
Sunday I went to Mass, did class preparation - tried to get some copies made but the copy place was closed (I got it done later in the day - found out the lady who runs it is also a part time policewoman in town - I didn't picture her as the type - she's very jolly and a very "traditionally buillt" African lady). Got some yogurt on the way home to comfort myself w. a banana smoothie! Afternoon are getting very hot and sticky, but nights are still O.K.
Went down to PH about 1:00 (got there for lunch). An organization promised the home 10 new wheelchairs but the deadline to apply was Monday, so Sr. J had gotten the hospital scale and was weighing 17 kids to put on a list (ever hopeful)...they needed weights and ages for sizes I guess! I got the list typed and did a Letter of Inquiry for a grant for the vocational school with Global Children's Fund (we'll see if they reply - the Letter is very short so not much time lost if it doesn't fly). We had craft class and the little kids colored on the floor - fun day!!!
Finished "Things Fall Apart" by Chnia Achebe (Nigerian) about a tribal society that fell part when the whites came - why are the books about Africa so tragic? Also read The River Between by Ngugi wa Throng'o (Kenyan) - same theme. Now am reading one Theresa sent called The Night Birds - good book set around the Sioux uprisings in Minnesota (and how the Native American society fell apart when the whites came).
Monday was a day of humility - tried to work on Reading Comprehension in English class, but the story was too long and too hard for 90% of the kids. It was from a P-4 English book, and about raising tea, but the kids are not used to reading (I'd made copies) , or listening and getting the main points. Doreen said was a good idea (bless her heart), but I needed to have a shorter story and go slower (she's right). Then the tailoring teacher didn't come till 1:30 (for an 11:00 class - this is not uncommon in Uganda), and I just blew up at him in front of the kids - very unprofessional! He said he was there but the room was locked, but I was there playing w. Nelson's kids right next door and he was NOT there - the kids were in the room waiting!!! I stayed too long in Nelson's room and the rest of the little kids came back from school (1:15) and they stormed the resource room, grabbing the toys and asking for sweeties and balloons (I'd tried to make balloon animals for Nelson's kids - also not very successful)....had a terrible time shooing them out and getting the door locked!!!
Tuesday was actually a public holiday - the end of Ramadan. BUT, it wasn't officially a holiday till 9:30 Monday night because someone, somewhere had to see the moon for it to be official (it was Weds. in Kenya). I got a call at 9:30 Monday night from Dr. Antonio, the Italian orthopedic doctor, who said he and his wife, daughter and neice were coming Tuesday since it was a holiday - crazy system!! So Tuesday was interesting. The stove guy came at 8:30 and we started up the new stove (THANKS ALL). He stayed a long time helping the cook get used to using smaller pieces of wood and a LOT less wood....porridge cooked very fast with the fire all enclosed under the pot. Very Exciting.
We started CBR - had a short meeting (monthly update) and then the Doctor came. He met with Sr. J and me and his wife and family went out w. Moses and Kinene to see some disabled children at their homes. The Italians are opening their new orthopedic hospital in Entebbe (south of Kampala) in Feb. '09 and he wanted to talk about that, about some fund-raising he's been doing for PH and the clinic he's still hoping to do out here in October/November. He and his wife are really nice and are so interested in helping PH - stayed for lunch (I am really into lunch aren't I?). Good visit all around.
Got to talk to Naomi for her BD in the evening - she sounds in good spirits for someone who's 8 1/2 months pregnant! It was also Holly's BD (they are one year apart). I didn't get to celebrate much w. Holly, but did give her her presents in the evening....mainly a neat basket made by one of the epilepsy clients.
Wednesday I went on the early matatu to a meeting in Kampala at the Africana hotel - Sr. Juliet was invited, but she and Sr. Veronica went to Kenya to take three of our non-verbal children to a special home in Kenya that specializes in speech therapy, so I was elected to go. The meeting was called by Katelemwa hospital to get together groups that work with disabled children in the hopes of working on a draft of policy to be presented to the government and incorporated into a new National Development Plan. A lot of it was over my head, but it was interesting. I was surprised at how many people I knew - guess the advocacy group for disabled children in Uganda is pretty small!!!
Funny trip home - from Mukono the matatu was really a wreck. The sliding door fell off every time they opened it! The driver and conductor had to tie it back on whenever anyone got out. When we got to Nkokonjeru he wouldn't stop anywhere but the taxi park and people were complaining - usually they make a few stops around town before they get to the park...guess they were tired of typing up the door!!! Matatu rides always have stories....
Thursday's English class was much better - took Doreen's suggestions. This time I did vocabulary words first and went slower! Monday I want to do a short story about Ugandan independence and some easy questions...we'll get there!!! I'm learning!
Thursday was Epilepsy Clinic Day and Florence did a great job - she saw 37 people (7 brand new)...the woman is amazing! Had "lunch" at 4:00 and she left at 6:30. I was exhausted and she still had to go back to Kampala. People's stories are sometimes so tragic - she's great at talking to them. Kinene talked to the waiting patients/parents for two hours about Epilepsy and other health problems - Moses translated for Florence - I just sit there and am caught up in the stories - it really went well.
The sisters had choir practiceat the chpael outside my window till 10:30 p.m. - drums and all. Great way to fall asleep - very relaxing. It's been raining a lot at night and the power was out Friday a.m. I washed clothes and cleaned for awhile....down at PH by 8:30 - crazy day (when are they not?). Bookkeeping teacher didn't show...I called him and he was in Mukono! He hadn't called to say he wouldn't be there- said he was out of phone minutes. Really, this is NOT unusual in Ugandan schools, but VERY frustrating! Tailoring teacher, again, didn't show by 11:00 - I called him...he had a "meeting" till 2:00 he said (no notice)....eventually, it rained at 2:00 and he never came either!
But, Sr. Margaret (the former administrator) showed up with a group of students from Tororo (north) who are here to study at St. Anthony's girls' school for a month to get ready for their secondary exams. The boys (about 20) are staying at PH in the dorm (but eating at St. Anthony's). Sr. wanted some of the tailoring students to sew St. Anthony patches on white shirts for the "new" students. Rushed around to get organized, get bobbins and white thread and then the four 2nd year students sewed - I was really proud of them. Took them several hours but they really worked - and the boys were waiting right there watching them! Sr. Margaret said some of the boys are former child soldiers in Kony's Lord's Resistance Army in the rebel insurgency in Northern Uganda - now going to school in Tororo!
At the same time the carpenter was here to measure a new shoe-making table for Doreen so she can work from her wheel chair and Sr. Juliet wanted me to come to a "budget meeting"....which turned out to be trying to allocate some Liliane grant money she got to all the school fee debts Providence Home has - of course, it wasn't enough so we had to "budget"....don't know what will be left for the vocational school teachers, but I hope they get paid - might improve their attendance (I hope).
Saturday a.m. I biked with Holly on her 16 mile run - then went with her for awhile to another women's baking class. Came back for craft class at 2:00 and there were visitors from an organization called Mukisa Foundation that pays the OT's salary - came out w. two visiting British Airways pilots who actually fund the organization. The kids were really having fun with them. The craft teacher didn't come (this is getting old)....it was the Feast Day of St. Francis (and these are Sisters of St. Francis) so St. Anthony's, where she works, had a big ceremony and meal and she couldn't get away....just wish people would let me know in advance!!
So, now it's Sunday, and I'm writing this all down....it was a busy week, but I like that. Happy 5th Anniversary (last Sat.) to Gail and Jesse. Jamie and Naomi have about a week or two till their due dates! Wish them the best - easy and fast deliveries (but time to get to the hospital and get settled).
Thanks to everyone for the your prayers and letters and just for remembering me! Coming up on 6 months (Oct. 10) at site - one quarter of the way through. Some days are harder than others, but I do feel I'm making a contribution, however small. Will make for good stories someday!!!
Last Saturday I was in Mukono to check the P.O. and shop (peanut butter, etc.) Sent the picture CD so there should be some new pictures in a few weeks! I hadn't taken many in awhile but got activated again! Got back Saturday afternoon for the craft class (2:30). Margaret (the teacher) didn't tell me that the dyed palm fronds we'd purchased needed to be hung to dry and so they were pretty moldy!! Got them scraped off and we used the best and may try to re-dye the others!! Lessons to be learned!
Short aside: Compliments here are sometimes hard to read. Saying "you're fat" is a compliment to women...big women are prized. There are signs all over advertising for herbalists who can guarantee to make you "Grow Big Bums", "Gain Weight Quickly" - it's a sign of prosperity and health (people with HIV, before drugs, really wasted away). The other day Sr. Juliet (with a big smile) told me that my English class "was like a REAL class" - I said "it is a real class" - sort of ruined the compliment for her. The vocational program was really let go the past few years - they had other problems and prioities, but it's starting to come around. Monday a.m. the kids teased me because I was 5 minutes late!!! P.S. Sr. Juliet also told me I'd gained weight while she was gone and looked better (I have).
Sr. Goretti stopped to see my apartment after Mass on Sunday and said it was "very organized" (and "very nice"). They get a kick out my folders, lists and notebooks!!
Sunday I went to Mass, did class preparation - tried to get some copies made but the copy place was closed (I got it done later in the day - found out the lady who runs it is also a part time policewoman in town - I didn't picture her as the type - she's very jolly and a very "traditionally buillt" African lady). Got some yogurt on the way home to comfort myself w. a banana smoothie! Afternoon are getting very hot and sticky, but nights are still O.K.
Went down to PH about 1:00 (got there for lunch). An organization promised the home 10 new wheelchairs but the deadline to apply was Monday, so Sr. J had gotten the hospital scale and was weighing 17 kids to put on a list (ever hopeful)...they needed weights and ages for sizes I guess! I got the list typed and did a Letter of Inquiry for a grant for the vocational school with Global Children's Fund (we'll see if they reply - the Letter is very short so not much time lost if it doesn't fly). We had craft class and the little kids colored on the floor - fun day!!!
Finished "Things Fall Apart" by Chnia Achebe (Nigerian) about a tribal society that fell part when the whites came - why are the books about Africa so tragic? Also read The River Between by Ngugi wa Throng'o (Kenyan) - same theme. Now am reading one Theresa sent called The Night Birds - good book set around the Sioux uprisings in Minnesota (and how the Native American society fell apart when the whites came).
Monday was a day of humility - tried to work on Reading Comprehension in English class, but the story was too long and too hard for 90% of the kids. It was from a P-4 English book, and about raising tea, but the kids are not used to reading (I'd made copies) , or listening and getting the main points. Doreen said was a good idea (bless her heart), but I needed to have a shorter story and go slower (she's right). Then the tailoring teacher didn't come till 1:30 (for an 11:00 class - this is not uncommon in Uganda), and I just blew up at him in front of the kids - very unprofessional! He said he was there but the room was locked, but I was there playing w. Nelson's kids right next door and he was NOT there - the kids were in the room waiting!!! I stayed too long in Nelson's room and the rest of the little kids came back from school (1:15) and they stormed the resource room, grabbing the toys and asking for sweeties and balloons (I'd tried to make balloon animals for Nelson's kids - also not very successful)....had a terrible time shooing them out and getting the door locked!!!
Tuesday was actually a public holiday - the end of Ramadan. BUT, it wasn't officially a holiday till 9:30 Monday night because someone, somewhere had to see the moon for it to be official (it was Weds. in Kenya). I got a call at 9:30 Monday night from Dr. Antonio, the Italian orthopedic doctor, who said he and his wife, daughter and neice were coming Tuesday since it was a holiday - crazy system!! So Tuesday was interesting. The stove guy came at 8:30 and we started up the new stove (THANKS ALL). He stayed a long time helping the cook get used to using smaller pieces of wood and a LOT less wood....porridge cooked very fast with the fire all enclosed under the pot. Very Exciting.
We started CBR - had a short meeting (monthly update) and then the Doctor came. He met with Sr. J and me and his wife and family went out w. Moses and Kinene to see some disabled children at their homes. The Italians are opening their new orthopedic hospital in Entebbe (south of Kampala) in Feb. '09 and he wanted to talk about that, about some fund-raising he's been doing for PH and the clinic he's still hoping to do out here in October/November. He and his wife are really nice and are so interested in helping PH - stayed for lunch (I am really into lunch aren't I?). Good visit all around.
Got to talk to Naomi for her BD in the evening - she sounds in good spirits for someone who's 8 1/2 months pregnant! It was also Holly's BD (they are one year apart). I didn't get to celebrate much w. Holly, but did give her her presents in the evening....mainly a neat basket made by one of the epilepsy clients.
Wednesday I went on the early matatu to a meeting in Kampala at the Africana hotel - Sr. Juliet was invited, but she and Sr. Veronica went to Kenya to take three of our non-verbal children to a special home in Kenya that specializes in speech therapy, so I was elected to go. The meeting was called by Katelemwa hospital to get together groups that work with disabled children in the hopes of working on a draft of policy to be presented to the government and incorporated into a new National Development Plan. A lot of it was over my head, but it was interesting. I was surprised at how many people I knew - guess the advocacy group for disabled children in Uganda is pretty small!!!
Funny trip home - from Mukono the matatu was really a wreck. The sliding door fell off every time they opened it! The driver and conductor had to tie it back on whenever anyone got out. When we got to Nkokonjeru he wouldn't stop anywhere but the taxi park and people were complaining - usually they make a few stops around town before they get to the park...guess they were tired of typing up the door!!! Matatu rides always have stories....
Thursday's English class was much better - took Doreen's suggestions. This time I did vocabulary words first and went slower! Monday I want to do a short story about Ugandan independence and some easy questions...we'll get there!!! I'm learning!
Thursday was Epilepsy Clinic Day and Florence did a great job - she saw 37 people (7 brand new)...the woman is amazing! Had "lunch" at 4:00 and she left at 6:30. I was exhausted and she still had to go back to Kampala. People's stories are sometimes so tragic - she's great at talking to them. Kinene talked to the waiting patients/parents for two hours about Epilepsy and other health problems - Moses translated for Florence - I just sit there and am caught up in the stories - it really went well.
The sisters had choir practiceat the chpael outside my window till 10:30 p.m. - drums and all. Great way to fall asleep - very relaxing. It's been raining a lot at night and the power was out Friday a.m. I washed clothes and cleaned for awhile....down at PH by 8:30 - crazy day (when are they not?). Bookkeeping teacher didn't show...I called him and he was in Mukono! He hadn't called to say he wouldn't be there- said he was out of phone minutes. Really, this is NOT unusual in Ugandan schools, but VERY frustrating! Tailoring teacher, again, didn't show by 11:00 - I called him...he had a "meeting" till 2:00 he said (no notice)....eventually, it rained at 2:00 and he never came either!
But, Sr. Margaret (the former administrator) showed up with a group of students from Tororo (north) who are here to study at St. Anthony's girls' school for a month to get ready for their secondary exams. The boys (about 20) are staying at PH in the dorm (but eating at St. Anthony's). Sr. wanted some of the tailoring students to sew St. Anthony patches on white shirts for the "new" students. Rushed around to get organized, get bobbins and white thread and then the four 2nd year students sewed - I was really proud of them. Took them several hours but they really worked - and the boys were waiting right there watching them! Sr. Margaret said some of the boys are former child soldiers in Kony's Lord's Resistance Army in the rebel insurgency in Northern Uganda - now going to school in Tororo!
At the same time the carpenter was here to measure a new shoe-making table for Doreen so she can work from her wheel chair and Sr. Juliet wanted me to come to a "budget meeting"....which turned out to be trying to allocate some Liliane grant money she got to all the school fee debts Providence Home has - of course, it wasn't enough so we had to "budget"....don't know what will be left for the vocational school teachers, but I hope they get paid - might improve their attendance (I hope).
Saturday a.m. I biked with Holly on her 16 mile run - then went with her for awhile to another women's baking class. Came back for craft class at 2:00 and there were visitors from an organization called Mukisa Foundation that pays the OT's salary - came out w. two visiting British Airways pilots who actually fund the organization. The kids were really having fun with them. The craft teacher didn't come (this is getting old)....it was the Feast Day of St. Francis (and these are Sisters of St. Francis) so St. Anthony's, where she works, had a big ceremony and meal and she couldn't get away....just wish people would let me know in advance!!
So, now it's Sunday, and I'm writing this all down....it was a busy week, but I like that. Happy 5th Anniversary (last Sat.) to Gail and Jesse. Jamie and Naomi have about a week or two till their due dates! Wish them the best - easy and fast deliveries (but time to get to the hospital and get settled).
Thanks to everyone for the your prayers and letters and just for remembering me! Coming up on 6 months (Oct. 10) at site - one quarter of the way through. Some days are harder than others, but I do feel I'm making a contribution, however small. Will make for good stories someday!!!
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