Hello Everyone,
Mike just asked me and Mama V if we could be ready to leave for Kampala in thirty minutes. That gave me two minutes to pack, twenty five minutes to do my hair ;), and three minutes to pray for a connection and blog.
Please pray that everything goes smoothly and that we can get everything accomplished before we come back next weekend. Please don't be surprised if I don't post for a few days.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Zoo take three......well the fair anyway.
Hello Everyone,
Today we took the three older ones back to the expo fair to see if we could get them on the rides. It was not very busy, and we had a blast riding the "big ride". It was just like a big wheel that spun us around on swings. It was a lot of fun, and it was great watching Paul's face as he spun around as we went around the ride.
To be honest I may have to leave for Kampala tomorrow, and I am a little bummed that I may not have only a few days left in Gulu. We should be back for Easter weekend, but even if we are, we are heading back down the monday following.
This morning I was up a little before four with a cough I have been fighting for a while. I actually slept last night without it bothering me until I woke up early this morning. I decided to try and not wake my roommate, so I came out and got on the computer to kill the time. When the sun was about to come up, I grabbed some nescafe, and headed out to the porch. The sunrises and sunsets are very beautiful, but very fast here. If you aren't quick you miss them. It was a great sunrise.............AND I was able to see the sunset last night too. Really got me thinking about how much this has become home. I know that its not my home home, but its a great home away from home.
After a very productive morning of finishing the hose "reel" and all but the assembly of the kids clothes drawers, I had a wonderful lunch of rice and cabbage. One of my favorites for sure. Then because it started to rain.........I had another cup of nescafe, and took the kids upstairs to watch Charlotte's Web. I grabbed my pillow and laid on the mat with them. Because of my high body temperature, and the damp air, the kids all snuggled up on me, and we enjoyed a quiet.....well mostly quiet afternoon. Gloria kept grabbing my hands and putting them on her face and telling me my hands were nice and warm. Faith had me warm her feet with mine. Emmy just snuggled up against my chest, and told me I had a baby in my belly. I am really going to miss these kids. The closer I get to leaving, the more I realize how much of my heart they have stolen.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today we took the three older ones back to the expo fair to see if we could get them on the rides. It was not very busy, and we had a blast riding the "big ride". It was just like a big wheel that spun us around on swings. It was a lot of fun, and it was great watching Paul's face as he spun around as we went around the ride.
To be honest I may have to leave for Kampala tomorrow, and I am a little bummed that I may not have only a few days left in Gulu. We should be back for Easter weekend, but even if we are, we are heading back down the monday following.
This morning I was up a little before four with a cough I have been fighting for a while. I actually slept last night without it bothering me until I woke up early this morning. I decided to try and not wake my roommate, so I came out and got on the computer to kill the time. When the sun was about to come up, I grabbed some nescafe, and headed out to the porch. The sunrises and sunsets are very beautiful, but very fast here. If you aren't quick you miss them. It was a great sunrise.............AND I was able to see the sunset last night too. Really got me thinking about how much this has become home. I know that its not my home home, but its a great home away from home.
After a very productive morning of finishing the hose "reel" and all but the assembly of the kids clothes drawers, I had a wonderful lunch of rice and cabbage. One of my favorites for sure. Then because it started to rain.........I had another cup of nescafe, and took the kids upstairs to watch Charlotte's Web. I grabbed my pillow and laid on the mat with them. Because of my high body temperature, and the damp air, the kids all snuggled up on me, and we enjoyed a quiet.....well mostly quiet afternoon. Gloria kept grabbing my hands and putting them on her face and telling me my hands were nice and warm. Faith had me warm her feet with mine. Emmy just snuggled up against my chest, and told me I had a baby in my belly. I am really going to miss these kids. The closer I get to leaving, the more I realize how much of my heart they have stolen.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Zoo take Two
Hello Everyone,
This afternoon after the older three were done school, we took them to see the expo fair the younger ones were able to see yesterday. Today we made it through the zoo, and over to the rides, when the skies opened up and it began to downpour. We waited under a ride for twenty minutes or so, till the rain was too getting the kids wet. Then we ran over to a tent to stay dry. While waiting the tent across from us fell over, and one in the corner flipped completely over. Thanks to all my handy dandy Hurlbut Tent Rental training...........I quickly evaluted our tent to be safe enough to stay under. The rains came down hard, and it began to thunder and lighting. It was great. The kids and I enjoyed playing in the river that was flowing through the tent.
After the rain subsided we brought the kids over to enjoy a treat in one of the soda tents. Unfortunately they got very cold, very fast so we didn't stay long before we decided to walk home. Riding a boda would have only made them even colder, and the walk helped them to warm up. We all laughed at Auntie Aida, as she was so worried about getting her feet and painted nails wet, as the rest of us just walked through the puddles when neccessary.
We finished off the day with making some chips and guacamoli, and of course a nice "hot" shower. Even though we got wet, and didn't make it onto all the rides, I think the kids had a lot of fun. I know I did. I really enjoy thunderstorms and rainshowers, so tonight I will be sitting out on the porch with a cup of coffee, and enjoying another one of natures shows.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
This afternoon after the older three were done school, we took them to see the expo fair the younger ones were able to see yesterday. Today we made it through the zoo, and over to the rides, when the skies opened up and it began to downpour. We waited under a ride for twenty minutes or so, till the rain was too getting the kids wet. Then we ran over to a tent to stay dry. While waiting the tent across from us fell over, and one in the corner flipped completely over. Thanks to all my handy dandy Hurlbut Tent Rental training...........I quickly evaluted our tent to be safe enough to stay under. The rains came down hard, and it began to thunder and lighting. It was great. The kids and I enjoyed playing in the river that was flowing through the tent.
After the rain subsided we brought the kids over to enjoy a treat in one of the soda tents. Unfortunately they got very cold, very fast so we didn't stay long before we decided to walk home. Riding a boda would have only made them even colder, and the walk helped them to warm up. We all laughed at Auntie Aida, as she was so worried about getting her feet and painted nails wet, as the rest of us just walked through the puddles when neccessary.
We finished off the day with making some chips and guacamoli, and of course a nice "hot" shower. Even though we got wet, and didn't make it onto all the rides, I think the kids had a lot of fun. I know I did. I really enjoy thunderstorms and rainshowers, so tonight I will be sitting out on the porch with a cup of coffee, and enjoying another one of natures shows.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Monday, March 22, 2010
Zoo anyone?
Hello Everyone,
Today I took the three youngest to the "zoo" that came to town. There was a small variety of African animals, and the kids really enjoyed themselves. They spent most of there time watching the ostrich. There was also an african fish eagle, two grey parrots, a kob(like an antelope), a camel, the african version of a peacock, and an anaconda. There was also a Serval cat, which was my favorite. We had a nice strole from the compound to Pece Stadium where it was housed. It was basically like a fair, except that even thought opened today, most of the vendors and rides were still putting up booths and getting inventory brought in. Time is much different here then it is in the States. Punctuality is not the norm. The kids and I enjoyed walking and I started to get sad realizing that I only have a few more weeks left with them.
I also had a lot of fun when I went to school to get the older three. I got to the school a little early and got to play a little soccer with some pre-schoolers hanging around. One was the little girl who melted my heart about a month ago. The best part was that she had her little sister with her, who had the cutest little dimples. I don't know how you could not want to hide these kids in a suitcase and bring them home.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today I took the three youngest to the "zoo" that came to town. There was a small variety of African animals, and the kids really enjoyed themselves. They spent most of there time watching the ostrich. There was also an african fish eagle, two grey parrots, a kob(like an antelope), a camel, the african version of a peacock, and an anaconda. There was also a Serval cat, which was my favorite. We had a nice strole from the compound to Pece Stadium where it was housed. It was basically like a fair, except that even thought opened today, most of the vendors and rides were still putting up booths and getting inventory brought in. Time is much different here then it is in the States. Punctuality is not the norm. The kids and I enjoyed walking and I started to get sad realizing that I only have a few more weeks left with them.
I also had a lot of fun when I went to school to get the older three. I got to the school a little early and got to play a little soccer with some pre-schoolers hanging around. One was the little girl who melted my heart about a month ago. The best part was that she had her little sister with her, who had the cutest little dimples. I don't know how you could not want to hide these kids in a suitcase and bring them home.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Chicken on Sundays ROCKS!!!!!
Hello Everyone,
Being Sunday we had two fantastic meals. Cabbage and porcia for lunch, and chicken and rice for dinner. I really do look forward to this meal all week long. It might seem ridiculous, but we only have meet a few times a week. Fish on thursdays, mince meat on saturdays, and chicken on sunday. Chicken is much darker here then at home..........kindof of like the dark meat on a turkey, but it is SOOOOOO good. Auntie Jennifer laughs at me every week, but gives me the part of the chicken reserved for the honored guest.
I really enjoy walking the kids to and from church.........well as long as they don't play in the road. The traffic here is crazy, and cars drive by within inches of us. I put my "big" back between me and the vehicles, but don't like it when the kids are being careless. A friend once told me that I would be too strick as a dad, and its times like that when I think they are right. Hopefully I balance it well with telling them how much I love them. I have defintiely learned that you can't correct each child the same. Some are much too sensitive to take harsh correction. Maybe I should work on being kinder when I am correcting.
I have just been thinking a lot lately of what I have done and said over the past few months, and want to really reflect and see if there are things that I should change. There definitley are, but others I hope I do well. I guess only time will tell.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Being Sunday we had two fantastic meals. Cabbage and porcia for lunch, and chicken and rice for dinner. I really do look forward to this meal all week long. It might seem ridiculous, but we only have meet a few times a week. Fish on thursdays, mince meat on saturdays, and chicken on sunday. Chicken is much darker here then at home..........kindof of like the dark meat on a turkey, but it is SOOOOOO good. Auntie Jennifer laughs at me every week, but gives me the part of the chicken reserved for the honored guest.
I really enjoy walking the kids to and from church.........well as long as they don't play in the road. The traffic here is crazy, and cars drive by within inches of us. I put my "big" back between me and the vehicles, but don't like it when the kids are being careless. A friend once told me that I would be too strick as a dad, and its times like that when I think they are right. Hopefully I balance it well with telling them how much I love them. I have defintiely learned that you can't correct each child the same. Some are much too sensitive to take harsh correction. Maybe I should work on being kinder when I am correcting.
I have just been thinking a lot lately of what I have done and said over the past few months, and want to really reflect and see if there are things that I should change. There definitley are, but others I hope I do well. I guess only time will tell.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Hair cuts and rooster shopping
Hello Everyone,
This morning I went town to find a barber shop or salon with a generator so our boys could get there hair cut. We did find one, and after a little wait, the boys finally showed up. They were very well behaved, and after they were done we walked down to the salon that Maggie was having her hair done in. They were again very well behaved so Mama Val and I stopped and got them a little treat which they ate while I went into the pharmacy to get something for this cough that I just can't seem to shake. Well me and the majority of the kids.
Then we went into the market and I let Emmy pick out with rooster he thought was the biggest. He chose well, except that the one he picked was extremely mean, and kept trying to bite me. I'm a little bigger than he is, so I took care of it, just had to ride on a separate boda back home. Of course if I had just been picked up my legs and held upside down, knowing that I was going to be someones Sunday dinner, I probably wouldn't be very nice either.
This afternoon we did another outreach for the kids in the community. It went really well, and we had a lot of kids come. I got to play Jesus for the death and resurrection scene. After the outreach the children called me Unlce Jesus. I love these kids. The six children who I consider my own, but also to dozens and dozens of neighborhood kids who call me Unlce Joe too. One boy who was our goalie for the Sunday afternoon soccer game, asked me if we could start our own team. He was pretty dissapointed when I told him that I will be leaving in just a few weeks. Because of Easter we may only have a few more games left.
Like I said yesterday, its hard to believe that April is almost here and that I will be going home so soon. I am getting ready to go, but will miss all the kids so much. Hopefully it won't be too long before I can return.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
This morning I went town to find a barber shop or salon with a generator so our boys could get there hair cut. We did find one, and after a little wait, the boys finally showed up. They were very well behaved, and after they were done we walked down to the salon that Maggie was having her hair done in. They were again very well behaved so Mama Val and I stopped and got them a little treat which they ate while I went into the pharmacy to get something for this cough that I just can't seem to shake. Well me and the majority of the kids.
Then we went into the market and I let Emmy pick out with rooster he thought was the biggest. He chose well, except that the one he picked was extremely mean, and kept trying to bite me. I'm a little bigger than he is, so I took care of it, just had to ride on a separate boda back home. Of course if I had just been picked up my legs and held upside down, knowing that I was going to be someones Sunday dinner, I probably wouldn't be very nice either.
This afternoon we did another outreach for the kids in the community. It went really well, and we had a lot of kids come. I got to play Jesus for the death and resurrection scene. After the outreach the children called me Unlce Jesus. I love these kids. The six children who I consider my own, but also to dozens and dozens of neighborhood kids who call me Unlce Joe too. One boy who was our goalie for the Sunday afternoon soccer game, asked me if we could start our own team. He was pretty dissapointed when I told him that I will be leaving in just a few weeks. Because of Easter we may only have a few more games left.
Like I said yesterday, its hard to believe that April is almost here and that I will be going home so soon. I am getting ready to go, but will miss all the kids so much. Hopefully it won't be too long before I can return.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Friday, March 19, 2010
Less than three weeks
Hello Everyone,
Today I had the day off and spent the day drinking coffee and trying to organize my pictures into some sort of sense. I had to buy another flash drive to fit them all.
In three weeks from right now, I will getting ready to board my flight from Newark, NJ to Montreal QC. Where has the time gone. It seems like we just went to Mike's wedding, and now Cassie is already home, and I will be on my way soon.
I don't know what else to say other than, I can only hope that I make the most of the time I have left. I hope this finds you all well.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today I had the day off and spent the day drinking coffee and trying to organize my pictures into some sort of sense. I had to buy another flash drive to fit them all.
In three weeks from right now, I will getting ready to board my flight from Newark, NJ to Montreal QC. Where has the time gone. It seems like we just went to Mike's wedding, and now Cassie is already home, and I will be on my way soon.
I don't know what else to say other than, I can only hope that I make the most of the time I have left. I hope this finds you all well.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Ordinary Miracle
Hello Everyone,
Today we had a long staff meeting and because we needed all the staff present we had the youngest ones watch Charlotte's web to keep them occupied. Just as our meeting was ending, the credits for the movie came on. The music in the background to it was "Ordinary Miracle" by Sarah Mclachlan. I know that this will make me seem like a big sap, but to be honest..........I am a big sap. Whenever I hear her voice, I can't help but to think of my brother Jake. Its a long story that I won't get into, but I really can't help but think of him when she sings. Hearing the song of course peaked my interest, and made me rewind the credits and watch it again with the kids. I don't know if I had ever heard the song before, and if I had, I definitley didn't pay attention to the lyrics. The kids snuggled up with me, and as I actually paid attention to what was being sung, I was very moved. Here are the lyrics, and a youtube link if you want to listen to it. (again.........I know I'm a sap, so just get over it.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Urv7tyeJ7qE
Today we had a long staff meeting and because we needed all the staff present we had the youngest ones watch Charlotte's web to keep them occupied. Just as our meeting was ending, the credits for the movie came on. The music in the background to it was "Ordinary Miracle" by Sarah Mclachlan. I know that this will make me seem like a big sap, but to be honest..........I am a big sap. Whenever I hear her voice, I can't help but to think of my brother Jake. Its a long story that I won't get into, but I really can't help but think of him when she sings. Hearing the song of course peaked my interest, and made me rewind the credits and watch it again with the kids. I don't know if I had ever heard the song before, and if I had, I definitley didn't pay attention to the lyrics. The kids snuggled up with me, and as I actually paid attention to what was being sung, I was very moved. Here are the lyrics, and a youtube link if you want to listen to it. (again.........I know I'm a sap, so just get over it.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Urv7tyeJ7qE
It’s not that unusual
When everything is beautiful
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
The sky knows when it’s time to snow
Don’t need to teach a seed to grow
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
Life is like a gift they say
Wrapped up for you everyday
Open up and find a way
To give some of your own
Isn’t it remarkable
Like every time a raindrop falls
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
Birds in winter have their fling
Will always make it home by spring
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
When you wake up everyday
Please don’t throw your dreams away
Hold them close to your heart
‘Cause we’re all a part of the ordinary miracle
Ordinary miracle
Do you want to see a miracle?
It seems so exceptional
The things just work out after all
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
Sun comes up and shines so bright
And disappears again at night
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
When everything is beautiful
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
The sky knows when it’s time to snow
Don’t need to teach a seed to grow
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
Life is like a gift they say
Wrapped up for you everyday
Open up and find a way
To give some of your own
Isn’t it remarkable
Like every time a raindrop falls
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
Birds in winter have their fling
Will always make it home by spring
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
When you wake up everyday
Please don’t throw your dreams away
Hold them close to your heart
‘Cause we’re all a part of the ordinary miracle
Ordinary miracle
Do you want to see a miracle?
It seems so exceptional
The things just work out after all
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
Sun comes up and shines so bright
And disappears again at night
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
It’s just another ordinary miracle today
It may not be that impacting to you, but just thinking about how much in the world around us really is a miracle, definitely impacted me. I know that I have said before that its the little things in life that make it wonderful, and that the best things in life are free. I still completely agree. The lyrics of the song talk about beautiful miracles of nature, and how amazing it is that seeds grow, birds know how to migrate, and how the "sky knows when its time to snow". One of the best lyrics is "When you wake up everyday. Please don't throw your dreams away. Hold them close to your heart, 'cause we're all a part of the ordinary miracle." I think that so many times we wake up, and not only do we not realize the wonderous miracle of a beautiful sunrise, the birds chirping, or fresh falling snow (ok, maybe I'm in the minority for loving the snow, but just bare with me); but we also get lost in the business of life and forget about our dreams. In essence we them away.
It has been a dream of mine to come to the african continent and serve since I was just a teenager. I went on some mission trips after high school, and got busy with college, and trying to find a career. Somewhere in the middle of that, losing my brother, and just life in general, I got really comfortable with where I was. I wasn't living, or even pursing any real dream other then building a house, and finding a job that I enjoyed. Not really pursing the dreams of my heart.
I still don't know what I am going to do when I get home, or what the future holds, but I do know that I want to keep pursing my dreams. I also want to never lose site of the ordinary miracles that unfold right before my eyes, each and every day. I want to live a life full of adventure, and uncertainty, but still be able to stop and smell the roses along the way.
Here's to appreciating the ordinary miracles we see, and are a part of everyday.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Happy St. Patty's Day!!!
Hello Everyone,
I hope you are all going to enjoy some corn beef and cabbage today. We however had some white ants and cabbage instead. Like I've said before they really aren't too bad. I am actually probably going to miss them soon.
I found out today that during our outreach for the community this weekend, I get to play Jesus. Of course I will be a little more "generous" than our Messiah was two thousand years ago, but Rebbecca, I thought that you would be glad to know that you aren't the only one who thought I resembled Jesus. I have a funny suspicion that it might have a lot to do with the fact that I am muzungu and have a beard. Or something that resembles one anyway.
Where on earth have the last few months gone? Days are going faster and faster. Hoping that the time I have left doesn't go too fast.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
I hope you are all going to enjoy some corn beef and cabbage today. We however had some white ants and cabbage instead. Like I've said before they really aren't too bad. I am actually probably going to miss them soon.
I found out today that during our outreach for the community this weekend, I get to play Jesus. Of course I will be a little more "generous" than our Messiah was two thousand years ago, but Rebbecca, I thought that you would be glad to know that you aren't the only one who thought I resembled Jesus. I have a funny suspicion that it might have a lot to do with the fact that I am muzungu and have a beard. Or something that resembles one anyway.
Where on earth have the last few months gone? Days are going faster and faster. Hoping that the time I have left doesn't go too fast.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Mama Aida
Hello Everyone,
Today was Mama Aida's first full day with it, and I think she was a little overwhelmed with all the tasks involved with keeping up with the six kids. I told her just to enjoy herself, and to not believe anything Mama Val has said about me (her roomate). To celebrate..........well really because I wanted some..........I made some banana bread again today. A lot more actually. Two loaves and a 9x9 cake of it. Mama Val is on her way up with some right now, and I can't wait to have some with fresh fruit juice. She usually makes passion fruit juice, but today she added some oranges. I already tasted it and its incredible.
I think that I will really miss all the fresh fruit and such all the time. I know that we have the farmers market, but during the winter it won't be the same. I am having a hard time believing that I am leaving in just over three weeks. This month, and really this year has flown by. Hard to believe we are in the second half of March already. Yesterday while helping the kids with there homework, I snuck them some fries(chips) that I was making for doing such a great job. I ran out of the kitchen with them and whispered good job, then I love you them. Then they both crouched down and whispered back...." Thank you booga booga......we love you too." Acholi kids don't hear that very often, and I am so blessed to be able to say it to these kids all the time. I say it so much that sometimes I think they will get annoyed with me, but the never do. Maggie and Bill(the two oldest whom Mama Val and I did homework with last night) start to blush and turn there heads away and say it really quitely, but I can tell they enjoy it.
Last night I sent a few people a message saying that I can't wait to be a dad. I really can........but what I meant was that the little conversation I just mentioned made me think about how much of a blessing it is to be able to say it these kids. Whether or not I ever am a dad, I do know that I will always have at least a few kids that "Uncle Joe" can love on.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today was Mama Aida's first full day with it, and I think she was a little overwhelmed with all the tasks involved with keeping up with the six kids. I told her just to enjoy herself, and to not believe anything Mama Val has said about me (her roomate). To celebrate..........well really because I wanted some..........I made some banana bread again today. A lot more actually. Two loaves and a 9x9 cake of it. Mama Val is on her way up with some right now, and I can't wait to have some with fresh fruit juice. She usually makes passion fruit juice, but today she added some oranges. I already tasted it and its incredible.
I think that I will really miss all the fresh fruit and such all the time. I know that we have the farmers market, but during the winter it won't be the same. I am having a hard time believing that I am leaving in just over three weeks. This month, and really this year has flown by. Hard to believe we are in the second half of March already. Yesterday while helping the kids with there homework, I snuck them some fries(chips) that I was making for doing such a great job. I ran out of the kitchen with them and whispered good job, then I love you them. Then they both crouched down and whispered back...." Thank you booga booga......we love you too." Acholi kids don't hear that very often, and I am so blessed to be able to say it to these kids all the time. I say it so much that sometimes I think they will get annoyed with me, but the never do. Maggie and Bill(the two oldest whom Mama Val and I did homework with last night) start to blush and turn there heads away and say it really quitely, but I can tell they enjoy it.
Last night I sent a few people a message saying that I can't wait to be a dad. I really can........but what I meant was that the little conversation I just mentioned made me think about how much of a blessing it is to be able to say it these kids. Whether or not I ever am a dad, I do know that I will always have at least a few kids that "Uncle Joe" can love on.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Monday, March 15, 2010
Shopping and shovels
Hello Everyone,
Today was a fairly typical Monday. Well the morning anyway. I did my laundry, then helped Mama Val do the shopping. We are really getting to know some of the vendors at the market, and its great that they always take care of us and even give us "bonus" fruits and vegetables. It also nice to be able to have small talk with so many Acholi people, and have them laugh when I can speak............even though its limited.........there language.
When we got back, Uncle Mike and Uncle Francis were outside the compound digging a pit for our garbage. After lunch Uncle Mike told Francis that it was pretty much done, but I wanted to go swing and sweat for a while. I have a strange fetish with work that requires a strong back and a weak mind. Lots of sweat insued, as we dug down to where Mike originally wanted, but then said the majic words. "Well its ok, but deeper would be good........but if you tired, we can do it tomorrow." Being a guy...........and one that prides himself in his ability to work, I of course stayed out there, and even though I wasn't smart enough to wear gloves, I kept working even though my hands blistered, then even bled. Wow..........me and my stubborn pride sometimes.
I was really glad to finish it, and in the process half of Gulu walked by to admire a muzungu actually working. That may be more of why I stuck it out, because I really don't like the fact that "white people" don't work (manual labor) here. Not only is it not above me, but I actually enjoy it. Of course the fact that most Ugandan's think I am really strong, also kept me working. Well that and the fact that a bunch of kids showed up, and I wanted to finish so I could play with them. Play we did. Uncle Francis and I spent half an hour picking kids out of, and "throwing" them into the hole. The neighborhood kids really enjoyed it, and kept playing long after we went back into the compound.
Another great day.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today was a fairly typical Monday. Well the morning anyway. I did my laundry, then helped Mama Val do the shopping. We are really getting to know some of the vendors at the market, and its great that they always take care of us and even give us "bonus" fruits and vegetables. It also nice to be able to have small talk with so many Acholi people, and have them laugh when I can speak............even though its limited.........there language.
When we got back, Uncle Mike and Uncle Francis were outside the compound digging a pit for our garbage. After lunch Uncle Mike told Francis that it was pretty much done, but I wanted to go swing and sweat for a while. I have a strange fetish with work that requires a strong back and a weak mind. Lots of sweat insued, as we dug down to where Mike originally wanted, but then said the majic words. "Well its ok, but deeper would be good........but if you tired, we can do it tomorrow." Being a guy...........and one that prides himself in his ability to work, I of course stayed out there, and even though I wasn't smart enough to wear gloves, I kept working even though my hands blistered, then even bled. Wow..........me and my stubborn pride sometimes.
I was really glad to finish it, and in the process half of Gulu walked by to admire a muzungu actually working. That may be more of why I stuck it out, because I really don't like the fact that "white people" don't work (manual labor) here. Not only is it not above me, but I actually enjoy it. Of course the fact that most Ugandan's think I am really strong, also kept me working. Well that and the fact that a bunch of kids showed up, and I wanted to finish so I could play with them. Play we did. Uncle Francis and I spent half an hour picking kids out of, and "throwing" them into the hole. The neighborhood kids really enjoyed it, and kept playing long after we went back into the compound.
Another great day.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Banana Bread anyone?
Hello Everyone,
Well its been a long, and very tiring day. We had a lot of bananas starting to go bad, so I decided to end the day with some nescafe(instant coffee) and some fresh banana bread. Yes.....I made it myself. It turned out pretty good too. A little dark on the bottom(but not burned) because I had to take care of a bat in Mama V's office, but still really good.
Took the children to church on my own this morning, and they were all pretty good. Although I don't understand what they are talking about when we walk, I can usually tell when its fun conversation or someone being mean to another. When we got back we ate lunch, and then while the youngest four played soccer and such outside, Auntie Jennifer and I spent two and a half hours helping the oldest two with homework. At first I was a little upset with them because I thought they were just trying to get me to do a lot of it for them. After some conversation with Auntie Jennifer the children told her that they don't understand. They recongnize all the letters, and some words, but in essense can't read, or pronounce words. We have a lot of work ahead of us to get them caught up with the rest of the class, but we can do it. We would all really covet your prayers as the next few weeks are extremely busy, and we need to make sure that we don't neglect the childrem. They are the reason we are all here in the first place.
They all are incredible children with lots of potential. Here's to helping them reach it.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Well its been a long, and very tiring day. We had a lot of bananas starting to go bad, so I decided to end the day with some nescafe(instant coffee) and some fresh banana bread. Yes.....I made it myself. It turned out pretty good too. A little dark on the bottom(but not burned) because I had to take care of a bat in Mama V's office, but still really good.
Took the children to church on my own this morning, and they were all pretty good. Although I don't understand what they are talking about when we walk, I can usually tell when its fun conversation or someone being mean to another. When we got back we ate lunch, and then while the youngest four played soccer and such outside, Auntie Jennifer and I spent two and a half hours helping the oldest two with homework. At first I was a little upset with them because I thought they were just trying to get me to do a lot of it for them. After some conversation with Auntie Jennifer the children told her that they don't understand. They recongnize all the letters, and some words, but in essense can't read, or pronounce words. We have a lot of work ahead of us to get them caught up with the rest of the class, but we can do it. We would all really covet your prayers as the next few weeks are extremely busy, and we need to make sure that we don't neglect the childrem. They are the reason we are all here in the first place.
They all are incredible children with lots of potential. Here's to helping them reach it.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Kids, kids, and more kids.
Hello Everyone,
Today we spent all morning getting the house and compound clean for the upcoming arrival of our landlord. The children worked diligently from after breakfast, right up until lunch. What a great bunch of hard working children.
This afternoon we had an outreach in the compound for the kids in the community. Our children as well as we the staff did some skits, and taught and learned songs. We focused on worship today. On why we do it, different ways in which we do it, and had a great time with the neighborhood kids. We had better than seventy five kids particiapating, and it was great. Two of which where the twins (Opiyo and Achen), as well as several of there brothers and sisters. We had about a dozen of them come up for salvation at the end including Achen.
There was also a cute little boy with red sweatpants on, that were a little too big. At one point I noticed him walking toward the front and his pants just fell right to the ground. What a cute little guy. He must not have been more than one or so, and he took right to me. Unlike the little girl who came, and cried and cried when she first saw me. After a while, I got her to not cry, but she didn't warm up like this little guy. He came right over to me, and after I played with him for a bit, he wanted to be held. I reluctantly (YEAH RIGHT!!!!) picked him up, and we had so much fun. Near the end we gave the kids a couple of candies, and this little guy was no different. He spent about half an hour nibbling on his and covering my shirt in drool, and sugar.
What a great day......children really are such a blessing.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today we spent all morning getting the house and compound clean for the upcoming arrival of our landlord. The children worked diligently from after breakfast, right up until lunch. What a great bunch of hard working children.
This afternoon we had an outreach in the compound for the kids in the community. Our children as well as we the staff did some skits, and taught and learned songs. We focused on worship today. On why we do it, different ways in which we do it, and had a great time with the neighborhood kids. We had better than seventy five kids particiapating, and it was great. Two of which where the twins (Opiyo and Achen), as well as several of there brothers and sisters. We had about a dozen of them come up for salvation at the end including Achen.
There was also a cute little boy with red sweatpants on, that were a little too big. At one point I noticed him walking toward the front and his pants just fell right to the ground. What a cute little guy. He must not have been more than one or so, and he took right to me. Unlike the little girl who came, and cried and cried when she first saw me. After a while, I got her to not cry, but she didn't warm up like this little guy. He came right over to me, and after I played with him for a bit, he wanted to be held. I reluctantly (YEAH RIGHT!!!!) picked him up, and we had so much fun. Near the end we gave the kids a couple of candies, and this little guy was no different. He spent about half an hour nibbling on his and covering my shirt in drool, and sugar.
What a great day......children really are such a blessing.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Friday, March 12, 2010
No SIM.....but life is still good.
Hello Everyone,
Well as you can probably figure out from the title, I did not find my SIM card today. The good news is that ATT is sending me a new one over night, and not charging me. The bad news is that I won't be able to use it until April. I guess I will just have to deal with no return texts from the states..........except for the few of you who have international plans, or just think I'm worth the money (just kidding).
Its so hard to believe that this week is almost over and that we are almost halfway through March already. Musicals have already started at home, and the Ramsdell sugar shack is well into production. I am really missing some of the things at home, but also feel so blessed to be able to be here with these wonderful people. I was thinking this morning how hard it will be to go back to "normal" life, and to be honest I hope that I don't completely get comfortable again. I do look forward to the sounds of the frogs and crickets out my window, but not to all the hustle and bustle of "keeping up with the Jones'" Of course a good friend of mine once told his white collar neighbors that "I am the Jones'"(miss you guys by the way!!!) Life he is harder in the sense that all the luxuries that make task easier, but it is also so much simpler. I don't believe that we shoud all just give up everything and live in poverty.........but we should all not take what we have for granted.
The things that really matter here, are the same things that really matter there. Faith, family, and friends. I think that we all lose site of that from time to time, and we all (especially me) need a good kick in the pants once in a while (I'm ok for now Elaine, but I will let you know ;)....).
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Well as you can probably figure out from the title, I did not find my SIM card today. The good news is that ATT is sending me a new one over night, and not charging me. The bad news is that I won't be able to use it until April. I guess I will just have to deal with no return texts from the states..........except for the few of you who have international plans, or just think I'm worth the money (just kidding).
Its so hard to believe that this week is almost over and that we are almost halfway through March already. Musicals have already started at home, and the Ramsdell sugar shack is well into production. I am really missing some of the things at home, but also feel so blessed to be able to be here with these wonderful people. I was thinking this morning how hard it will be to go back to "normal" life, and to be honest I hope that I don't completely get comfortable again. I do look forward to the sounds of the frogs and crickets out my window, but not to all the hustle and bustle of "keeping up with the Jones'" Of course a good friend of mine once told his white collar neighbors that "I am the Jones'"(miss you guys by the way!!!) Life he is harder in the sense that all the luxuries that make task easier, but it is also so much simpler. I don't believe that we shoud all just give up everything and live in poverty.........but we should all not take what we have for granted.
The things that really matter here, are the same things that really matter there. Faith, family, and friends. I think that we all lose site of that from time to time, and we all (especially me) need a good kick in the pants once in a while (I'm ok for now Elaine, but I will let you know ;)....).
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Help!!!!
Hello Everyone,
Well I can't write a good blog tonight because I need to keep looking through the house to find my ATT Sim card. I seem to have misplaced it today. Please pray I can find it.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Well I can't write a good blog tonight because I need to keep looking through the house to find my ATT Sim card. I seem to have misplaced it today. Please pray I can find it.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Good coffee and great reading.
Hello Everyone,
I had today off and spent most of it drinking coffee ( I know....surprise surpise), and reading some books from a friend. I kept finding myself reading, then looking at my life to see how I was, or wasn't really being the church to the world.
In the first book, Crazy Love, there were serveral quotes that impacted me, but none as much as the following one from Tim Kizziar. "Our greatest fear as individuals and as a church should not be of failure but of succeeding at things that don't really matter." What an incredible statement. It really makes you think if what you are investing in is really worth the time and engery you are pouring into it.
In the second book, Irrestible Revolution, Mother Theresa is quoted saying, "We can do no great things, just small things with great love. It is not how much you do, but how much love you put into doing it." How many times have you found yourself, or at least I have found myself, doing something because it should be done, but not doing with the right heart. Not putting my whole heart into it, and definitley not pouring my love into the task, or the people involved in it.
I don't know about you, but these quotes, and the rest of the reading, has really pressed me to really look inward into what I am doing, and more importantly why I am doing it. Christ calls us to take care of the widows and the orphans in the distress, but he also calls us to do out of love. He calls us to love Him with everything we have, and out of that love we have no other option but to spill His love onto the world around us.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
I had today off and spent most of it drinking coffee ( I know....surprise surpise), and reading some books from a friend. I kept finding myself reading, then looking at my life to see how I was, or wasn't really being the church to the world.
In the first book, Crazy Love, there were serveral quotes that impacted me, but none as much as the following one from Tim Kizziar. "Our greatest fear as individuals and as a church should not be of failure but of succeeding at things that don't really matter." What an incredible statement. It really makes you think if what you are investing in is really worth the time and engery you are pouring into it.
In the second book, Irrestible Revolution, Mother Theresa is quoted saying, "We can do no great things, just small things with great love. It is not how much you do, but how much love you put into doing it." How many times have you found yourself, or at least I have found myself, doing something because it should be done, but not doing with the right heart. Not putting my whole heart into it, and definitley not pouring my love into the task, or the people involved in it.
I don't know about you, but these quotes, and the rest of the reading, has really pressed me to really look inward into what I am doing, and more importantly why I am doing it. Christ calls us to take care of the widows and the orphans in the distress, but he also calls us to do out of love. He calls us to love Him with everything we have, and out of that love we have no other option but to spill His love onto the world around us.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Thank you
Hello Everyone,
Today was a pretty typical day, except that I am now the assistant shopper on tuesdays and I washed my sheets and towels today instead of yesterday with the rest of my laundry. I was thinking about how amazing the offering that came in on Sunday at NTC was, and how blessed we are to call it our home church(for those of us that do obviously ;)...). What an amazing community of people. I know first hand how generous NTC is, from both past experience, and then of course now on this adventure. Your finincial support has been overwhelming to me, and I can't begin to say how helpful it has been. The prayer support from NTC, as well as all you other wonderful people I am so blessed to call friends, has been so incredible. I can so sense your prayers every day.
I wish that there were some way I could truly express my thanks better. I am honored to be on this adventure, and even more honored to be able to share, if even just a small bit,..... with you.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today was a pretty typical day, except that I am now the assistant shopper on tuesdays and I washed my sheets and towels today instead of yesterday with the rest of my laundry. I was thinking about how amazing the offering that came in on Sunday at NTC was, and how blessed we are to call it our home church(for those of us that do obviously ;)...). What an amazing community of people. I know first hand how generous NTC is, from both past experience, and then of course now on this adventure. Your finincial support has been overwhelming to me, and I can't begin to say how helpful it has been. The prayer support from NTC, as well as all you other wonderful people I am so blessed to call friends, has been so incredible. I can so sense your prayers every day.
I wish that there were some way I could truly express my thanks better. I am honored to be on this adventure, and even more honored to be able to share, if even just a small bit,..... with you.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Monday, March 8, 2010
I'm fat, but I'm fit =)
Hello Everyone,
Today was a great day. Today was a public holiday in Uganda where they celebrate women. We spent women's day by doing laundry, and then playing lots, and lots of soccer. We went to the field after lunch and started to play with just our six children. Soon two more boys who were near by wanted to play. We went shirts and skins...........the boys being skins (including me), and within fifteen minutes we had over sixty children flooding the field.
The children all were extremely entertained by my jiggling around the field. I spent half the time playing soccer, and the other half playing with the children. Picking them up and throwing them in the air, or spinning them around, or just tickling them silly. They all especially enjoyed it when I picked one of them up, threw him over my shoulder and ran around the field until I scored. It so easy to make these children laugh, and it warms my heart everytime I hear it. As much as I play with the kids for the kids...........I do it just as much for me too.
Auntie Jennifer, and Uncle Francis were talking the other day, and thought it was important to let me know that I am fat. However I am also fit, and that isn't what they are used to seeing with a guy my size. I guess I am definitley not a normal muzungu. I hope that a good thing.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today was a great day. Today was a public holiday in Uganda where they celebrate women. We spent women's day by doing laundry, and then playing lots, and lots of soccer. We went to the field after lunch and started to play with just our six children. Soon two more boys who were near by wanted to play. We went shirts and skins...........the boys being skins (including me), and within fifteen minutes we had over sixty children flooding the field.
The children all were extremely entertained by my jiggling around the field. I spent half the time playing soccer, and the other half playing with the children. Picking them up and throwing them in the air, or spinning them around, or just tickling them silly. They all especially enjoyed it when I picked one of them up, threw him over my shoulder and ran around the field until I scored. It so easy to make these children laugh, and it warms my heart everytime I hear it. As much as I play with the kids for the kids...........I do it just as much for me too.
Auntie Jennifer, and Uncle Francis were talking the other day, and thought it was important to let me know that I am fat. However I am also fit, and that isn't what they are used to seeing with a guy my size. I guess I am definitley not a normal muzungu. I hope that a good thing.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Sunday, March 7, 2010
White ants anyone?
Hello Everyone,
Today we went to Watoto like we usually do, and after I walked into town to pick up a few things from Prince "supermarket". It was a beautiful day. Very warm, but a nice breeze made it actually quite nice. I returned home to find that the white ants we bought yesterday had been made into a sauce for the porcia and cabbage. They are actually pretty tasty. Well they tast like cooking oil....and lots of salt. They are fried with tomatoes and onions, so its ok, but a funny texture is all. Auntie Jennifer thought it was pretty funny that a muzungu would eat it without complaining.
After the delicious lunch, the children and I played soccer and rode the bikes around the compound for most of the rest of the day. We had a great time, and it was so warm that I unzipped the legs on my pants and ran around in shorts. I can't tell you how wonderful it felt to play soccer in shorts, and use sneakers instead of stubbing my toes because I toeball too much. Its just so hard to keep up with these kids as it is, and the extra protection on my toes really helped.
During one of our breaks I sat on the bench and Gloria laid down in my lap and told her that I looked like Jesus. I laughed thinking about my blog the other day, and although I wish it was because my actions reminded her of Him, its just because I haven't shaved in a few months. Then she looked up at me and said......"Uncle Joe.............you are my father, and I am your daughter." If only I could pack her in my suitcase and make that be true. Its amazing how I have been hoping that I have been making a good mark, and God lets me have a fiew glimpses to let me know that I am not totally screwing it up.
Good day.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today we went to Watoto like we usually do, and after I walked into town to pick up a few things from Prince "supermarket". It was a beautiful day. Very warm, but a nice breeze made it actually quite nice. I returned home to find that the white ants we bought yesterday had been made into a sauce for the porcia and cabbage. They are actually pretty tasty. Well they tast like cooking oil....and lots of salt. They are fried with tomatoes and onions, so its ok, but a funny texture is all. Auntie Jennifer thought it was pretty funny that a muzungu would eat it without complaining.
After the delicious lunch, the children and I played soccer and rode the bikes around the compound for most of the rest of the day. We had a great time, and it was so warm that I unzipped the legs on my pants and ran around in shorts. I can't tell you how wonderful it felt to play soccer in shorts, and use sneakers instead of stubbing my toes because I toeball too much. Its just so hard to keep up with these kids as it is, and the extra protection on my toes really helped.
During one of our breaks I sat on the bench and Gloria laid down in my lap and told her that I looked like Jesus. I laughed thinking about my blog the other day, and although I wish it was because my actions reminded her of Him, its just because I haven't shaved in a few months. Then she looked up at me and said......"Uncle Joe.............you are my father, and I am your daughter." If only I could pack her in my suitcase and make that be true. Its amazing how I have been hoping that I have been making a good mark, and God lets me have a fiew glimpses to let me know that I am not totally screwing it up.
Good day.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Hard day, but a good one.
Hello Everyone,
This morning Mike and I spent the morning cleaning the upstairs, then going to the market to get groceries for the next few days. After lunch I got to play with the kids and have some time to read on my own.
During the morning, I worked through some issues in the house, that have been bothering me. It was a long discussion, and at time heated, but in the end we were both on good terms. Its amazing how clearing the air with issues makes everything so much easier, and even better.
Michele in response to your comment, I am, and will continue to make sure these kids know that I love them. I tell them every chance I get, and if fact I think that they might be getting a little sick of it. Well maybe not the girls, but Bill seems to act like he is too old and too cool to have that really matter. Today I was able to play soccer alone with him for a while, and at the end when I told him I loved him he smiled, said he loved me too, and gave me a big hug.
Thats what its all about.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
This morning Mike and I spent the morning cleaning the upstairs, then going to the market to get groceries for the next few days. After lunch I got to play with the kids and have some time to read on my own.
During the morning, I worked through some issues in the house, that have been bothering me. It was a long discussion, and at time heated, but in the end we were both on good terms. Its amazing how clearing the air with issues makes everything so much easier, and even better.
Michele in response to your comment, I am, and will continue to make sure these kids know that I love them. I tell them every chance I get, and if fact I think that they might be getting a little sick of it. Well maybe not the girls, but Bill seems to act like he is too old and too cool to have that really matter. Today I was able to play soccer alone with him for a while, and at the end when I told him I loved him he smiled, said he loved me too, and gave me a big hug.
Thats what its all about.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Friday, March 5, 2010
Uncle Joe...Uncle Joe!!
Hello Everyone,
Today was another quiet day in which I worked on cleaning our bathroom, and tidying up the upstairs. This is just to make the saturday cleaning a little easier tomorrow(Yes Mama V, we will clean even when your not here ;)..). I was able to play football with the kids and try to get a little color on my starch white legs. The younger ones are a lot easier to keep up with while running around barefoot.
As usual I went to pick up the older three, and on the way a bunch of neibhorhood kids ran up with the usual muzungu, muzungu. The best part was after when some of them started to call me Uncle Joe. I recognized a few of them from the Jesus film we showed, and it was so great to hear them call me by name. Maybe I am making an impact after all. Mama Christine put some pics of my house online, and it was great to see them. It made me miss the house, the snow, the church, as well as my friends and family. Hearing the children call me Uncle Joe helped to realize again that I am right where I am supposed to be.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today was another quiet day in which I worked on cleaning our bathroom, and tidying up the upstairs. This is just to make the saturday cleaning a little easier tomorrow(Yes Mama V, we will clean even when your not here ;)..). I was able to play football with the kids and try to get a little color on my starch white legs. The younger ones are a lot easier to keep up with while running around barefoot.
As usual I went to pick up the older three, and on the way a bunch of neibhorhood kids ran up with the usual muzungu, muzungu. The best part was after when some of them started to call me Uncle Joe. I recognized a few of them from the Jesus film we showed, and it was so great to hear them call me by name. Maybe I am making an impact after all. Mama Christine put some pics of my house online, and it was great to see them. It made me miss the house, the snow, the church, as well as my friends and family. Hearing the children call me Uncle Joe helped to realize again that I am right where I am supposed to be.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Pretty Quiet around here today.
Hello Everyone,
Today was our first full day without Auntie Cassie, and its amazing how quiet it was. I had today off and spent most of the morning drinking coffee and reading a great book. I came back to the house just after lunch to bring Emmy to the clinic. He has had a cough for some time now, and is now complaining that it hurts to eat. He is fine, and is very happy to be getting juice every night before he goes to bed. After the checkup we walked to town to buy him the juice, and then I stopped at Kope Cafe to relax and try some ginger soda to try and settle my stomach.
The book I started reading talked about how we call ourselves christians, but in Christ's time, people didn't call themselves that, people called them that because they reflected the life of Christ. How cool would it be for us to live lives that people couldn't come to any other conclusion except that we were followers of Christ. Just a thought.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today was our first full day without Auntie Cassie, and its amazing how quiet it was. I had today off and spent most of the morning drinking coffee and reading a great book. I came back to the house just after lunch to bring Emmy to the clinic. He has had a cough for some time now, and is now complaining that it hurts to eat. He is fine, and is very happy to be getting juice every night before he goes to bed. After the checkup we walked to town to buy him the juice, and then I stopped at Kope Cafe to relax and try some ginger soda to try and settle my stomach.
The book I started reading talked about how we call ourselves christians, but in Christ's time, people didn't call themselves that, people called them that because they reflected the life of Christ. How cool would it be for us to live lives that people couldn't come to any other conclusion except that we were followers of Christ. Just a thought.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Its a sad day in Gulu.....
Hello Everyone,
Today we put Mama V and Auntie Cassie on the bus to Kampala, so that Cassie can fly back to Bermuda. We had a final stop at Cafe Larem, and then back to the compound to say goodbye to everyone. She will be greatly missed. By the children, the staff, and the community. She is great with the kids and has a huge heart for the children and the people in the community in generl. She even made a point to say goodbye to the elderly mama who lives next to us, and the woman was so happy for her to do so. She wanted to know when she was coming back, and said that a year may be too long. I am quite certain that this will not be her last stop here in Gulu, and it has been a fantastic two months working with her.
After some sulking (just in case Cassie reads this ;)...) I went back to Cafe Larem for some reading, then home to spend some time with the children. Paul pulled me up to the table, and asked me why I didn't leave for Bermuda with Auntie Cassie and had to explain that I won't be going to Bermuda, but to America, and that I won't leave for another five weeks. To which he said," Uncle Joe, we go on airplane to America?!" When I replied telling him that I would be going alone, and that he would have to stay here, he started to well up with tears. He was trying to be tough, so kept looking away and tried his best not to shed a tear. To be honest I don't know if he did or not, because I had to just tell him I loved him and walk away before I started crying.
Its so hard to believe that I have only been involved in there lives for two months, and even harder that I will only be involved for one more. Well at least for this trip. I sat thinking after dinner about what both Auntie Cassie and I have done here. Thinking that the helping around the house, and with the kids has been a bonus, but I think they could have handled it without us if they had had to. I know that Cassie left a lasting impression on the community, and I am hoping and praying that I am leaving more than just "Uncle Joe, your stomach is big", or me getting to the kids to say booga booga, and finding out that in Acholi it means fat and soft(fitting that is what the kids call me), or that several boda drivers call me Africa(black) because I was kidding with one of them over a month ago and told him that he was the muzungu and I was Africa. Its been a fun joke that has now spread to a bunch of drivers. I am sure that what I am doing is making an impact, and I just want to make sure that I make a lasting and positive impression on this community, but especially on our children. I know that I am not there dad, but I do know that I am one of the few male role models they have. Here's to making the most of the time I have left, and to leaving a mark that lasts.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today we put Mama V and Auntie Cassie on the bus to Kampala, so that Cassie can fly back to Bermuda. We had a final stop at Cafe Larem, and then back to the compound to say goodbye to everyone. She will be greatly missed. By the children, the staff, and the community. She is great with the kids and has a huge heart for the children and the people in the community in generl. She even made a point to say goodbye to the elderly mama who lives next to us, and the woman was so happy for her to do so. She wanted to know when she was coming back, and said that a year may be too long. I am quite certain that this will not be her last stop here in Gulu, and it has been a fantastic two months working with her.
After some sulking (just in case Cassie reads this ;)...) I went back to Cafe Larem for some reading, then home to spend some time with the children. Paul pulled me up to the table, and asked me why I didn't leave for Bermuda with Auntie Cassie and had to explain that I won't be going to Bermuda, but to America, and that I won't leave for another five weeks. To which he said," Uncle Joe, we go on airplane to America?!" When I replied telling him that I would be going alone, and that he would have to stay here, he started to well up with tears. He was trying to be tough, so kept looking away and tried his best not to shed a tear. To be honest I don't know if he did or not, because I had to just tell him I loved him and walk away before I started crying.
Its so hard to believe that I have only been involved in there lives for two months, and even harder that I will only be involved for one more. Well at least for this trip. I sat thinking after dinner about what both Auntie Cassie and I have done here. Thinking that the helping around the house, and with the kids has been a bonus, but I think they could have handled it without us if they had had to. I know that Cassie left a lasting impression on the community, and I am hoping and praying that I am leaving more than just "Uncle Joe, your stomach is big", or me getting to the kids to say booga booga, and finding out that in Acholi it means fat and soft(fitting that is what the kids call me), or that several boda drivers call me Africa(black) because I was kidding with one of them over a month ago and told him that he was the muzungu and I was Africa. Its been a fun joke that has now spread to a bunch of drivers. I am sure that what I am doing is making an impact, and I just want to make sure that I make a lasting and positive impression on this community, but especially on our children. I know that I am not there dad, but I do know that I am one of the few male role models they have. Here's to making the most of the time I have left, and to leaving a mark that lasts.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Guacamoli and chips anyone?
Hello Everyone,
Today was Auntie Cassie's last full day with us, and she will be leaving around noon tomorrow. It was a fairly normal day with a trip to the market for groceries, then cleaning my "project area", and building the fence for the chickens. Its not very pretty, but it works.
I went to pick up the three older children, and while waiting I saw dozens of kids chasing and catching what the Acholi like to call white ants. They are a flying ant that is fried and eaten as a scrumptious treat. I tried it a few weeks ago, and all it tastes like is crispy cooking oil. While walking home a young boy was trying frantically to catch one out of the air, and kept just missing. I walked by and snagged it for him, and when I handed it to him you would have thought I had just given him a million dollars.
Tonight after dinner Mama Val and I made chips and guacamoli(sp?) for a little going away snack. We ate, and ate, and ate.........oh and had some fresh passion fruit juice. We laughed talking about all the kids and how wonderful and hilarious they all are. She will be greatly missed. By the children and all the staff.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today was Auntie Cassie's last full day with us, and she will be leaving around noon tomorrow. It was a fairly normal day with a trip to the market for groceries, then cleaning my "project area", and building the fence for the chickens. Its not very pretty, but it works.
I went to pick up the three older children, and while waiting I saw dozens of kids chasing and catching what the Acholi like to call white ants. They are a flying ant that is fried and eaten as a scrumptious treat. I tried it a few weeks ago, and all it tastes like is crispy cooking oil. While walking home a young boy was trying frantically to catch one out of the air, and kept just missing. I walked by and snagged it for him, and when I handed it to him you would have thought I had just given him a million dollars.
Tonight after dinner Mama Val and I made chips and guacamoli(sp?) for a little going away snack. We ate, and ate, and ate.........oh and had some fresh passion fruit juice. We laughed talking about all the kids and how wonderful and hilarious they all are. She will be greatly missed. By the children and all the staff.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Monday, March 1, 2010
IDP Camp again
Hello Everyone,
Today we went back to the same IDP camp, but this time the rain held off so we could walk around the came. We stopped and prayed for some people, and after the first stop, we had a large train of children following us around the camp.
I had so much fun running around chasing, and being chased by the children. Saying hello, and asking them how they are doing in Acholi, really helped to break off the timidness that many of them had. I juggled for some of them, and they thought is was the funniest thing. When I would drop a piece of dried mud, someone would grab me another one to keep going. After that one girl grabbed my arm and held tight as I lifted her up off the ground. I quickly became the newest ride at the funpark. I got quite a work out between running around and between huts catching and dodging the children, and lifting and spinning them in the air. A few of the smaller children were really brave and let me through them in the air.
After all that, I don't think I could have gotten them all to go home if I had to. They followed us around on the rest of our tour, and jump at the chance to hold my hand as soon as another child let it go. The love of a child is so amazing. Many of them had torn and weathered clothes, and very few had any kind of shoes. A few were even covered head to toe in dirt grim, and some in wounds. Although there was a woman who was bit by a snake and hadn't been able to walk for a month was healed, and was able to walk, I think I will remember the faces of the children for much longer than hers.
What a great day.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
Today we went back to the same IDP camp, but this time the rain held off so we could walk around the came. We stopped and prayed for some people, and after the first stop, we had a large train of children following us around the camp.
I had so much fun running around chasing, and being chased by the children. Saying hello, and asking them how they are doing in Acholi, really helped to break off the timidness that many of them had. I juggled for some of them, and they thought is was the funniest thing. When I would drop a piece of dried mud, someone would grab me another one to keep going. After that one girl grabbed my arm and held tight as I lifted her up off the ground. I quickly became the newest ride at the funpark. I got quite a work out between running around and between huts catching and dodging the children, and lifting and spinning them in the air. A few of the smaller children were really brave and let me through them in the air.
After all that, I don't think I could have gotten them all to go home if I had to. They followed us around on the rest of our tour, and jump at the chance to hold my hand as soon as another child let it go. The love of a child is so amazing. Many of them had torn and weathered clothes, and very few had any kind of shoes. A few were even covered head to toe in dirt grim, and some in wounds. Although there was a woman who was bit by a snake and hadn't been able to walk for a month was healed, and was able to walk, I think I will remember the faces of the children for much longer than hers.
What a great day.
Love and miss you all,
Joe
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