These are individual foods or a complete meal that I am craving while in Uganda. I am listing them by the day that I was craving them.
Sunday, June 28: BLT with home grown tomatoes and Mama’s homemade bread. Served with a dill pickle spear and salt and vinegar potato chips.
Thursday, July 2: Cheeseburger with lettuce, onions, pickles, and mustard
Saturday, July 4: Pimento cheese from The Fresh Market
Wednesday, July 8: Big green salad with LOTS of fresh veggies, beaufort stew
Monday, June 29, 2009
Rhino Sanctuary- Saturday, June 27
We traveled to the Rhino Sanctuary today. It was about a three hour trip southwest in a mutatu. We stopped twice: once for a short call and once for the driver to stretch and for us to be harassed by street vendors.
After Idi Amin was overthrown, many people came in and hunted the rhinos to extinction: either for a trophy or for their horns, which are highly coveted in parts of Asia. Several joint organizations have come together to create this sanctuary in order to repopulate the area with black and white rhinos. They hope to provide a place where the rhinos can be safe, have babies and then be released back into the wild. There are currently 6 rhinos at the sanctuary, and they are protected by guards 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It is a necessary thing, but I find it a little ridiculous that we live in a world where rhinos have to be protected ALL the time.
After unloading our stuff, we went and had lunch before the rhino walk. The lunch took forever to come out (not shocking in the least), but it was very yummy. It was spaghetti with meat and a little cheese on it. We then changed into clothing for walking through the bush. Once we were ready to go, we got back in the mutatus and drove for about 20 minutes through the bush. It was a very skinny “road” and very bumpy. As we were driving, we saw small deer, guinea fowl and lots of birds. We finally stopped and split into two groups. Our group was first, so we walked another 10 minutes through the bush. The guards stopped us, I looked up and we were about 20 feet from 3 enormous rhinos! We saw Taleo, the alpha male, and Kori and Bella, two females. The guard said that Taleo weighs about 250 tons; he was enormous! They were lying down when we arrived. We were able to get to about 10 feet from them, and the guards stopped us. To stand 10 feet away from rhinos without any sort of fencing was incredible. It was yet another moment that I thought, “I am in Africa standing 10 feet from rhinos! It doesn’t get any better than this.” We hung around for about 45 minutes just watching them, trying to surprise each other with grass blades and laughing at each other. We finally began walking back to the mutatus and drove back to the lodges.
For dinner, we had another delicious meal. It consisted of chicken that was actually edible. Normally, the chicken has been really tough. We theorize that it is because the chickens here are mobile; we see them walking around the town all of the time. When you compare them to American chickens who sit there all day, you could understand why the chicken here would be much tougher. It is to the point that I will not eat the chicken here anymore because I simply cannot chew it up.
After dinner, we learned to play Texas Hold ‘Em. We were trying to play with bottle caps, but we did not have enough. One of the people who works at the Rhino Sanctuary had actual poker chips, so we were able to actually bet and practice. It was fun to be able to relax and play. Good times…
Driving back was a lesson in how to remain calm in the event of possible death. Our driver seemed very intent on driving back as quickly as possible, and there were several “almost” head on collisions between us and big trucks. Add a rainstorm to this, and you can imagine my concern about my well being. I guess I should put more faith in the mutatu drivers since they have been doing it a lot longer, but it is still something to get used to. As we arrived back in Gulu, it was culture shock coming back. The town seemed so bustling and loud, and after being in a very quiet sanctuary, it was hard to come back to. When I arrived to Gulu from Kampala, I thought the city was so quiet and small. However that was not the case returning to it today. It’s amazing how your perspective can change so quickly through new experiences.
After Idi Amin was overthrown, many people came in and hunted the rhinos to extinction: either for a trophy or for their horns, which are highly coveted in parts of Asia. Several joint organizations have come together to create this sanctuary in order to repopulate the area with black and white rhinos. They hope to provide a place where the rhinos can be safe, have babies and then be released back into the wild. There are currently 6 rhinos at the sanctuary, and they are protected by guards 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It is a necessary thing, but I find it a little ridiculous that we live in a world where rhinos have to be protected ALL the time.
After unloading our stuff, we went and had lunch before the rhino walk. The lunch took forever to come out (not shocking in the least), but it was very yummy. It was spaghetti with meat and a little cheese on it. We then changed into clothing for walking through the bush. Once we were ready to go, we got back in the mutatus and drove for about 20 minutes through the bush. It was a very skinny “road” and very bumpy. As we were driving, we saw small deer, guinea fowl and lots of birds. We finally stopped and split into two groups. Our group was first, so we walked another 10 minutes through the bush. The guards stopped us, I looked up and we were about 20 feet from 3 enormous rhinos! We saw Taleo, the alpha male, and Kori and Bella, two females. The guard said that Taleo weighs about 250 tons; he was enormous! They were lying down when we arrived. We were able to get to about 10 feet from them, and the guards stopped us. To stand 10 feet away from rhinos without any sort of fencing was incredible. It was yet another moment that I thought, “I am in Africa standing 10 feet from rhinos! It doesn’t get any better than this.” We hung around for about 45 minutes just watching them, trying to surprise each other with grass blades and laughing at each other. We finally began walking back to the mutatus and drove back to the lodges.
For dinner, we had another delicious meal. It consisted of chicken that was actually edible. Normally, the chicken has been really tough. We theorize that it is because the chickens here are mobile; we see them walking around the town all of the time. When you compare them to American chickens who sit there all day, you could understand why the chicken here would be much tougher. It is to the point that I will not eat the chicken here anymore because I simply cannot chew it up.
After dinner, we learned to play Texas Hold ‘Em. We were trying to play with bottle caps, but we did not have enough. One of the people who works at the Rhino Sanctuary had actual poker chips, so we were able to actually bet and practice. It was fun to be able to relax and play. Good times…
Driving back was a lesson in how to remain calm in the event of possible death. Our driver seemed very intent on driving back as quickly as possible, and there were several “almost” head on collisions between us and big trucks. Add a rainstorm to this, and you can imagine my concern about my well being. I guess I should put more faith in the mutatu drivers since they have been doing it a lot longer, but it is still something to get used to. As we arrived back in Gulu, it was culture shock coming back. The town seemed so bustling and loud, and after being in a very quiet sanctuary, it was hard to come back to. When I arrived to Gulu from Kampala, I thought the city was so quiet and small. However that was not the case returning to it today. It’s amazing how your perspective can change so quickly through new experiences.
An English teacher teaches about the UN and ICC
I had the best experience today at SSB. Okello P’Layeng asked me to speak to his General Paper class which meets on Friday from 2:40-4:00 pm. This is a class for S5 and S6 students, and I think the purpose of it is to create discussion about different subjects. Okello told me he wanted me to speak on the United Nations and the ICC. Needless to say, I was a little concerned about this as I have a very limited knowledge of both entities. However, I really wanted a chance to get involved with the students, so I said okay.
I spent 1½ hours yesterday at Café Larem on the Internet researching the UN and ICC. I asked my fellow members of Group 2 for information and help. I wanted to share the information with the students but do it in a way that was interesting and thought provoking. So I took notes and prepared the lesson that included working in pairs and groups.
I arrived at SSB at 2:00 pm, and Okello P’Layeng was no where to be found. At 2:40, one of the other teachers walked me to the biology lab. It was on this walk that I was told that this class was the S5 and S6 streams combined, which meant that could be almost 200 students in the class. They hold the class in the Biology Lab because it is so big. Okello P’Layeng never showed up, but one of the student teachers named Patrick sat in there with me. I think he sat in there more to hear the information than to help with the class.
There were about 75 students in the class, and they were all taller than me by a lot. These young men (because they are no longer boys) were very intimidating, but I felt up to the challenge. We started out with me having them brainstorm what they knew about the United Nations in pairs. Then I had 6 volunteers write what they had thought of on the chalkboard. Mostly what they wrote was very basic information including when it began and what its purpose was. They seemed to not know the specifics of the Security Council, nor did they know anything about the ICC (International Criminal Court). We talked about the 5 permanent member states and how they came to be permanent members and then the 10 rotating member states; I asked them to name one of the rotating member states, and they could not. I then wrote “Uganda” on the board and asked them if they had ever heard of this country. They laughed very loudly, and I explained that Uganda was currently serving on the Security Council in its two year term. I also discussed the ICC with them, mentioned the two current cases in front of the ICC as well as the fact that the ICC had issued arrest warrants for Joseph Kony and 4 of his top commanders in 2005. Once we had discussed this information, we began the discussion. I wanted to discuss the following questions with this group:
- Is the UN living up to its mission? Why or why not?
- Is the ICC doing enough to capture Joseph Kony?
- What happens if countries do not follow the guidelines set up by the UN?
- What do you think of the veto process in the Security Council? Does it create an effective form of governing?
- Are the UN security forces effective in providing or keeping peace? Should their role change?
These students were amazing. They actually brought up many of these questions for discussion themselves and asked what I thought. I turned it around to them and asked them what they thought. Their answers were so provoking and mature that I forgot I was speaking to the teenagers. They were very opinionated on what should be done by the ICC in connection to Joseph Kony. They definitely felt that the ICC is not doing enough. Those who spoke felt that if the ICC was going to issue arrest warrants, then they should have the UN security forces go in and get him. That discussion then naturally led into the role of the UN security forces as peacekeeping and not “peacemaking.”
We also discussed how they had been affected by this war, and I mentioned the fact that they were born into it and knew nothing else. We also discussed the idea of war, and if a war is occurring, if that means that the rights of those humans no longer becomes a concern. They firmly believe that until Joseph Kony is caught, they are not completely safe. They also felt that Kony will not come out of the bush until there is a new Ugandan president because Kony is scared of Musaveni. They believe that government must change the situation.
We finished the discussion by me saying that I believed that the true method of change was through them. They needed to continue their education and move into jobs where they could influence the change. I ended with the idea that they are the hope of Uganda.
I walked out of this class floating on air. Several students stopped me again to thank me for teaching them. To see 75 teenage boys in a hot classroom engaged in a discussion about the UN was a bright spot in my trip. It was yet another example of the beauty of this country and the hope that permeates through the people. I am so grateful to be witness to it for 6 weeks.
I spent 1½ hours yesterday at Café Larem on the Internet researching the UN and ICC. I asked my fellow members of Group 2 for information and help. I wanted to share the information with the students but do it in a way that was interesting and thought provoking. So I took notes and prepared the lesson that included working in pairs and groups.
I arrived at SSB at 2:00 pm, and Okello P’Layeng was no where to be found. At 2:40, one of the other teachers walked me to the biology lab. It was on this walk that I was told that this class was the S5 and S6 streams combined, which meant that could be almost 200 students in the class. They hold the class in the Biology Lab because it is so big. Okello P’Layeng never showed up, but one of the student teachers named Patrick sat in there with me. I think he sat in there more to hear the information than to help with the class.
There were about 75 students in the class, and they were all taller than me by a lot. These young men (because they are no longer boys) were very intimidating, but I felt up to the challenge. We started out with me having them brainstorm what they knew about the United Nations in pairs. Then I had 6 volunteers write what they had thought of on the chalkboard. Mostly what they wrote was very basic information including when it began and what its purpose was. They seemed to not know the specifics of the Security Council, nor did they know anything about the ICC (International Criminal Court). We talked about the 5 permanent member states and how they came to be permanent members and then the 10 rotating member states; I asked them to name one of the rotating member states, and they could not. I then wrote “Uganda” on the board and asked them if they had ever heard of this country. They laughed very loudly, and I explained that Uganda was currently serving on the Security Council in its two year term. I also discussed the ICC with them, mentioned the two current cases in front of the ICC as well as the fact that the ICC had issued arrest warrants for Joseph Kony and 4 of his top commanders in 2005. Once we had discussed this information, we began the discussion. I wanted to discuss the following questions with this group:
- Is the UN living up to its mission? Why or why not?
- Is the ICC doing enough to capture Joseph Kony?
- What happens if countries do not follow the guidelines set up by the UN?
- What do you think of the veto process in the Security Council? Does it create an effective form of governing?
- Are the UN security forces effective in providing or keeping peace? Should their role change?
These students were amazing. They actually brought up many of these questions for discussion themselves and asked what I thought. I turned it around to them and asked them what they thought. Their answers were so provoking and mature that I forgot I was speaking to the teenagers. They were very opinionated on what should be done by the ICC in connection to Joseph Kony. They definitely felt that the ICC is not doing enough. Those who spoke felt that if the ICC was going to issue arrest warrants, then they should have the UN security forces go in and get him. That discussion then naturally led into the role of the UN security forces as peacekeeping and not “peacemaking.”
We also discussed how they had been affected by this war, and I mentioned the fact that they were born into it and knew nothing else. We also discussed the idea of war, and if a war is occurring, if that means that the rights of those humans no longer becomes a concern. They firmly believe that until Joseph Kony is caught, they are not completely safe. They also felt that Kony will not come out of the bush until there is a new Ugandan president because Kony is scared of Musaveni. They believe that government must change the situation.
We finished the discussion by me saying that I believed that the true method of change was through them. They needed to continue their education and move into jobs where they could influence the change. I ended with the idea that they are the hope of Uganda.
I walked out of this class floating on air. Several students stopped me again to thank me for teaching them. To see 75 teenage boys in a hot classroom engaged in a discussion about the UN was a bright spot in my trip. It was yet another example of the beauty of this country and the hope that permeates through the people. I am so grateful to be witness to it for 6 weeks.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Random Thoughts
Today (Thursday) I really helped Grace teach Sentence Inversions. I have to say that before this week, I had no idea what sentence inversions were; however after listening to Grace’s lesson, I felt able to create a fun exercise around it. I taught the exercise today to two S4 classes. The first class was a little slower than the 2nd class, but they completed it and seemed to understand the concepts. After teaching the second class, I had about 6 students thank me for teaching them today, and one even said that he really enjoyed the lesson. It made my heart smile. These students are so appreciative of what I have to offer. Grace was also very grateful as she said that I had shown her a new way of getting a concept across. So I am feeling really good right about now.
As I was walking away from Sir Samuel Baker School (SSB), I took a moment to recognize the fact that I am in Africa. It is a breathtakingly beautiful country, and I am so grateful to share my time here and learn with these people. They continue to amaze me every day with their kindness and positive attitudes. If Americans had this same kind of drive and hope, we would live in a very different, and much better, country. I am sure that by the time I leave that I will have taught only a little. However I will have learned so much about character, resilience, and love. I feel truly honored to be in the presence of the Ugandan people.
As I was walking away from Sir Samuel Baker School (SSB), I took a moment to recognize the fact that I am in Africa. It is a breathtakingly beautiful country, and I am so grateful to share my time here and learn with these people. They continue to amaze me every day with their kindness and positive attitudes. If Americans had this same kind of drive and hope, we would live in a very different, and much better, country. I am sure that by the time I leave that I will have taught only a little. However I will have learned so much about character, resilience, and love. I feel truly honored to be in the presence of the Ugandan people.
Living in Gulu
Living in Gulu is a culture shock, but so far, I am handling it pretty well. The roads are terrible; riding on a boda boda is like going through an obstacle course. The driver has to find the smoothest route around pot holes, crevices that are 1-2 feet deep and huge rocks. There are a few paved roads in Gulu, but they are not paved really well. The edges on either side of the road are breaking away and along with the huge potholes makes the paved roads not much of a better option.
The showers are cold, but after my morning runs, it actually feels good and cools me down quicker. The water pressure is so-so, and I am not really sure that I get my hair completely clean. Shaving legs is impossible; I finally just filled a bucket of water and shaved in the courtyard the other day. When using the bathroom, you either make a short call or a long call. A short call is just peeing, and a long call is… well, you can figure it out. We have designated pit latrines for short calls and long calls, which cuts down on the smell. We have become one big happy family in Group 2. There is nothing that does not get talked about.
We have been without electricity for two days. It really is not a big deal as the courtyard is open air and we don’t need light at night. However in terms of charging things, that does put a little damper on it. It’s amazing what you learn to live without. I know when I return that I will be very grateful for toilets that have seats and showers with water pressure.
I am a novelty here. Not only am I white, but I have blond hair. Children love shouting “muno” or “mzungo” as I walk by, and they love to just stare. By the end of this trip, I will have the best self esteem or the thickest skin from being an oddity.
I rode on a bicycle today side saddle, which was very awkward and uncomfortable. Quickly a boda came along, and saved me from this embarrassing situation.
The showers are cold, but after my morning runs, it actually feels good and cools me down quicker. The water pressure is so-so, and I am not really sure that I get my hair completely clean. Shaving legs is impossible; I finally just filled a bucket of water and shaved in the courtyard the other day. When using the bathroom, you either make a short call or a long call. A short call is just peeing, and a long call is… well, you can figure it out. We have designated pit latrines for short calls and long calls, which cuts down on the smell. We have become one big happy family in Group 2. There is nothing that does not get talked about.
We have been without electricity for two days. It really is not a big deal as the courtyard is open air and we don’t need light at night. However in terms of charging things, that does put a little damper on it. It’s amazing what you learn to live without. I know when I return that I will be very grateful for toilets that have seats and showers with water pressure.
I am a novelty here. Not only am I white, but I have blond hair. Children love shouting “muno” or “mzungo” as I walk by, and they love to just stare. By the end of this trip, I will have the best self esteem or the thickest skin from being an oddity.
I rode on a bicycle today side saddle, which was very awkward and uncomfortable. Quickly a boda came along, and saved me from this embarrassing situation.
Beginning of School
We started at our schools on Monday. I am at Sir Samuel Baker Secondary School, which is about a 15 minute boda boda ride out of town. Between the two teachers that I am working with, I have a full schedule, which is good because it will keep me busy. On Monday and Tuesday, I sat and observed. It was so BORING!! Their main teaching method is called “chalk and talk,” which means they stand at the chalkboard and lecture. It explains why this teacher exchange is so important; we are here to share alternative teaching methods that they can then use in their classrooms. That is what the “exchange” is all about. It is an exchange of ideas to help the Gulu educational system.
I have made some observations about education; however, my only perspective at this point is Sir Samuel Baker.
The classroom is very basic: it has a desk attached to a bench that sit 2-4 students and a chalkboard. That is all. Because of the push for math and science, each child gets his/her own textbook to keep in those subjects. However in English, 3 streams (or classes which equals about 120 students) share about 25 books. The students stay in class, and the teachers rotate. The class schedule is set up like a college schedule; classes meet 2-3 times per week for either 40 or 80 minutes. The teachers literally teach to the test (national examination).
Teachers check work by using a red pen. They give a check if the answer is correct; the checks do not mean anything, but the students LOVE them. The only grades that they receive are the midterm and final grade. The students here are so different in terms of behavior. Grace said today that she thought the students were bad; I was shocked and told her that I thought they were great compared to American students. They remain on task, and even when finished, they sit silently or help their classmate. They are sweet, polite, and so interested in learning. The classes get smaller as the streams get higher; some students stop coming, some have other obligations, etc.
The bell that rings sounds like a dinner bell, and it is only a suggestion. Teachers don’t necessarily begin or end class on time. If a student is late, he knocks on the door, and asks “Madam (or Sir), may I come in?”
The student’s education is truly up to him/her. They are responsible for getting and learning the material. If they do not complete the work or pass the test, the teacher is not necessarily criticized. This attitude is so refreshing and so different from the American attitude where the children can do no wrong.
On Wednesday, I finally got to get up in front of a class. In S4M (Stream 4 Middle- roughly 10th grade), we are working on If clauses and sentence inversion. It is so boring, and I was really trying to figure a way to liven it up. Grace began the lesson by reviewing the rules and corrections from their homework, and then she let me take over. I created a group exercise where they got to be a little creative and practice at the same time. The students really enjoyed it and got the lesson at the same time. I was so pumped at the end, and it makes me so excited to continue working with Grace and these students.
I have made some observations about education; however, my only perspective at this point is Sir Samuel Baker.
The classroom is very basic: it has a desk attached to a bench that sit 2-4 students and a chalkboard. That is all. Because of the push for math and science, each child gets his/her own textbook to keep in those subjects. However in English, 3 streams (or classes which equals about 120 students) share about 25 books. The students stay in class, and the teachers rotate. The class schedule is set up like a college schedule; classes meet 2-3 times per week for either 40 or 80 minutes. The teachers literally teach to the test (national examination).
Teachers check work by using a red pen. They give a check if the answer is correct; the checks do not mean anything, but the students LOVE them. The only grades that they receive are the midterm and final grade. The students here are so different in terms of behavior. Grace said today that she thought the students were bad; I was shocked and told her that I thought they were great compared to American students. They remain on task, and even when finished, they sit silently or help their classmate. They are sweet, polite, and so interested in learning. The classes get smaller as the streams get higher; some students stop coming, some have other obligations, etc.
The bell that rings sounds like a dinner bell, and it is only a suggestion. Teachers don’t necessarily begin or end class on time. If a student is late, he knocks on the door, and asks “Madam (or Sir), may I come in?”
The student’s education is truly up to him/her. They are responsible for getting and learning the material. If they do not complete the work or pass the test, the teacher is not necessarily criticized. This attitude is so refreshing and so different from the American attitude where the children can do no wrong.
On Wednesday, I finally got to get up in front of a class. In S4M (Stream 4 Middle- roughly 10th grade), we are working on If clauses and sentence inversion. It is so boring, and I was really trying to figure a way to liven it up. Grace began the lesson by reviewing the rules and corrections from their homework, and then she let me take over. I created a group exercise where they got to be a little creative and practice at the same time. The students really enjoyed it and got the lesson at the same time. I was so pumped at the end, and it makes me so excited to continue working with Grace and these students.
Visiting around Gulu- Sunday, June 21, 2009
On Sunday, I got up to go to church. My hope is to visit several different churches in the area over the course of my stay. We went to Watoko Church, which was started by two western mzungus. Needless to say, the service was very western. I felt like I was in a contemporary service in America with the exception being that there were no children running around here. The sermon was great though, and I really enjoyed going with friends.
In the afternoon, we went to St. Jude’s Orphanage to visit and play with the children. There were 92 children currently ranging in age from 2 weeks to 17 years old. The children were adorable and very loving. I figure that they are starved for physical attention. One child who was about 3 latched onto me; he ultimately fell asleep in my arms, and then Filda, the head of the orphanage, finally took him. Uganda is very protective of its children. Parents can leave their children at the orphanage until they can take care of them again. However several of the new babies were orphaned because their mothers died during childbirth or shortly after. Several babies and children were HIV+; they also take in disabled children, so we spent a little time with them as well. It was so sad to leave the place. However the children were laughing and dancing, which shows me how resilient they can be.
We had the most amazing dinner. Amy, the head of the program, met this family who had to flee the country during Idi Amin’s reign in the 1970’s. They returned for good three years ago and have reclaimed their farm. It is on the outskirts of Gulu, so we took a mutatu, which is a glorified VW van with many seats. We met Tom, the husband, and Rose, the wife and two of their eight children, Obi and Apollo. They live on an amazing farm; the land actually reminds me of Grandma and Grandpa’s house in Illinois. It was so beautiful!! We sat outside in the yard and listened to Tom talk about his experience growing up in Uganda. Much of his family was killed, so he and several members fled to Tanzania. That is where he met Rose. They returned briefly to Uganda after Idi Amin but then fled again (this time to the UK) once Alice Lakwena and Joseph Kony began causing trouble. That is where they remained from 1982 to 2007 when they returned and rebuilt their house. The dinner was delicious; Rose had salad (yah to fresh veggies!!), steak, fried fish, potato salad, fresh fruit, etc. Rose owns Country Bakery in Gulu. Obi is working on creating a honey industry here in Gulu so they don’t have to process the honey elsewhere, and Apollo just took a job with Athletes in Africa. They were so hospitable and so welcoming. The experience was my favorite so far.
In the afternoon, we went to St. Jude’s Orphanage to visit and play with the children. There were 92 children currently ranging in age from 2 weeks to 17 years old. The children were adorable and very loving. I figure that they are starved for physical attention. One child who was about 3 latched onto me; he ultimately fell asleep in my arms, and then Filda, the head of the orphanage, finally took him. Uganda is very protective of its children. Parents can leave their children at the orphanage until they can take care of them again. However several of the new babies were orphaned because their mothers died during childbirth or shortly after. Several babies and children were HIV+; they also take in disabled children, so we spent a little time with them as well. It was so sad to leave the place. However the children were laughing and dancing, which shows me how resilient they can be.
We had the most amazing dinner. Amy, the head of the program, met this family who had to flee the country during Idi Amin’s reign in the 1970’s. They returned for good three years ago and have reclaimed their farm. It is on the outskirts of Gulu, so we took a mutatu, which is a glorified VW van with many seats. We met Tom, the husband, and Rose, the wife and two of their eight children, Obi and Apollo. They live on an amazing farm; the land actually reminds me of Grandma and Grandpa’s house in Illinois. It was so beautiful!! We sat outside in the yard and listened to Tom talk about his experience growing up in Uganda. Much of his family was killed, so he and several members fled to Tanzania. That is where he met Rose. They returned briefly to Uganda after Idi Amin but then fled again (this time to the UK) once Alice Lakwena and Joseph Kony began causing trouble. That is where they remained from 1982 to 2007 when they returned and rebuilt their house. The dinner was delicious; Rose had salad (yah to fresh veggies!!), steak, fried fish, potato salad, fresh fruit, etc. Rose owns Country Bakery in Gulu. Obi is working on creating a honey industry here in Gulu so they don’t have to process the honey elsewhere, and Apollo just took a job with Athletes in Africa. They were so hospitable and so welcoming. The experience was my favorite so far.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
New Experiences
There are so many events and thoughts that I want to share, but I fear that it is impossible to fully convey them in a way that embodies the full experience. I feel that words will limit the power of the moment, but I will try my best.
Last night (Friday, June 19), we met our teachers at the Churchill Inn, a wonderful restaurant and hotel on the outskirts of Gulu. We walked there, and it was interesting to watch the reaction of the townspeople as 20 munos (white people) walked along the streets. Hopefully we will never stick out like that again. The tables were set out in the courtyard; once the sun went down, the stars came out, and the sky here is so beautiful since there are no lights to dim their brightness.
I am partnered with two teachers. Ilama Grace, who has been teaching for 14 years. She is not married but has two children, Bruno and Jacob. Bruno lives with her sister in Kampala so he can attend school there, and Jacob lives with her mother and her father near Gulu. The other teacher is Okello Palango, who has been teaching for 20 years. He has taught at the primary school, both levels of secondary, university and the teacher’s college. He is a character! He has 4 wives and 12 children; his father was an only child and told him to go and spread his clan. He believes that Lwo was the original language and that every language since is derived from Lwo. He actually sounds like the father in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, stating that every word comes from a Lwo word. For example, he said that “Aramaic” comes from the Lwo word “aram”, which means “corruption.” I could go on and on about this guy. I think that they are two different people, so the teaching experience will be very interesting. Ilama Grace teaches S1 (roughly 7th grade) and S4 (roughly 10th grade), and Okello Palango teaches S3 (roughly 9th grade).
Today (Saturday, June 20) we headed out to Sir Samuel Baker Secondary School where we will be for the next 5 weeks. We were to meet our teachers at 9:30 am, but none of them were even close to being on time. There is American time, and there is African time. At the school, they were holding the Handover Ceremony where the old prefects turn over the power to the new prefects. This was really cool! It was to start at 8:00 am, but when we talked in at 10:30, they still had not begun. We sat at the head table and were introduced and welcomed many times. For the entertainment portion, one or two students would get up with the microphone and lip sync to an American song. Rap was the most popular music to lip sync, but several students also chose some songs from the Latin invasion in the 1990’s. It was hysterical. The ceremony started around 11:00, and there were several speeches from the outgoing head UNSA (Ugandan National Students’ Association) and the outgoing head prefect. These two students were so well spoken, and their speeches were mostly about the success throughout the year, some of the failures, and the expectations of the next year’s prefects. The UNSA prefect began his speech by stating, “Do what you can to avoid what you cannot.” I love that!!! After these speeches, it was time for the “changing of the guard.” The outgoing prefect, the incoming prefect, and the guest of the incoming prefect came to the front of the hall. Holding the Holy Bible above his head, he recited the pledge to uphold the standards of the prefect system. Then the two prefects walked to opposite sides of the hall; they then walked to each other in the middle, and the outgoing prefect handed over his notebook to the incoming prefect. They either shook hands or hugged. It was really neat to watch and to be invited to attend. Next we heard speeches from the headmaster and the Chief Guest, who was the head of the PTA. One statement by the Headmaster that stood out to me was “hunger in dignity is better than bread eaten in slavery.” I think this sums up the attitude of the Acoli; they are very proud of who they are but not at all in an arrogant way. They simply want to live their lives and know peace. After each speech, the crowd applauded by tapping their foot on the ground. At one point, the emcee asked for “an enormous hand clap.” This enormous hand clap could only be described as a polite applause in America.
The ceremony ended at 1:15 pm, and then lunch was served. Because it was a big event, there was a buffet, which included white rice, millet (which is the consistency of brown silly puddy), goat stew (which had every single piece of the goat inside it), chicken stew (again, every single piece of chicken) and hot cabbage slaw (absolutely delicious). Close to the food serving table, two students held a pitcher of water and a basin for me to wash my hands. I wondered besides the obvious why this was so important. I quickly found out when I sat back down and realized that there was no silverware to use. In most places, they eat with their hands. So at least for lunch, I will be eating beans and posho with my hands every day. Good times…
After lunch, Sharon, Kate and I had to use the restroom, so we were guided to the pit latrine by one of the teachers. He walked us most of the way and then said, “it is just there behind that building.” Behind the building were 4 doors: 2 that led into showers and 2 that led into pit latrines. This trip to the pit latrines was the worst experience yet!!! There was one working pit latrine; the other had a lock on it (I guess it just got too disgusting to use). The pit latrine was full of flies and other bugs (could have been maggots?) because there were two pieces of poop laying on the back of the hole. And the smell… words cannot describe how horrendous it was. I tried to go in, but immediately began gagging. Sharon finally gave up and went to the shower to pee. Kate grabbed a long branch and pushed the two pieces of poop into the latrine. Once she did that, a lot of the mosquitoes lost interest. I took 3 deep breaths and went in although I did leave the door cracked and made Kate stand it front of it. It was a rough experience, but I got the job done. As we left the area, we realized that the teachers who had shown us the way were watching us the while time. They said, “We think you have fear.” We replied that we needed to just get used to it, which I think we will. Needless to say, I will live to be 110 and never forget that experience.
After lunch, we met the headmaster, named Norbert Oola, and he took us to his office. He spoke to us about the history of Sir Samuel Baker and how the war had affected it. Sir Samuel Baker opened in 1952 and has been a boarding school for boys. The school closed from 1988 to 1990 because the fighting was all around the school and not safe for the school. In 1995, 25 boys were abducted by the LRA in the middle of the night from one wing of the dormitory. 6 boys have still not returned. After the abduction, the boys would take turns sleeping in order to protect each other. Today during the ceremony, the dormitory prefects were thanked by saying, “You brought us to the light of the day.” After the abductions, the military stayed at the school until 2007 when the soldiers were removed. At that time, the school reverted to a boarding school. I would really love to spend some more time with him as I imagine his life has been remarkable.
I met with Grace for about 10 minutes as we were leaving, and she shared her school schedule with me. I am becoming more comfortable with her, so I think it will be a great experience. We begin Monday…
Last night (Friday, June 19), we met our teachers at the Churchill Inn, a wonderful restaurant and hotel on the outskirts of Gulu. We walked there, and it was interesting to watch the reaction of the townspeople as 20 munos (white people) walked along the streets. Hopefully we will never stick out like that again. The tables were set out in the courtyard; once the sun went down, the stars came out, and the sky here is so beautiful since there are no lights to dim their brightness.
I am partnered with two teachers. Ilama Grace, who has been teaching for 14 years. She is not married but has two children, Bruno and Jacob. Bruno lives with her sister in Kampala so he can attend school there, and Jacob lives with her mother and her father near Gulu. The other teacher is Okello Palango, who has been teaching for 20 years. He has taught at the primary school, both levels of secondary, university and the teacher’s college. He is a character! He has 4 wives and 12 children; his father was an only child and told him to go and spread his clan. He believes that Lwo was the original language and that every language since is derived from Lwo. He actually sounds like the father in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, stating that every word comes from a Lwo word. For example, he said that “Aramaic” comes from the Lwo word “aram”, which means “corruption.” I could go on and on about this guy. I think that they are two different people, so the teaching experience will be very interesting. Ilama Grace teaches S1 (roughly 7th grade) and S4 (roughly 10th grade), and Okello Palango teaches S3 (roughly 9th grade).
Today (Saturday, June 20) we headed out to Sir Samuel Baker Secondary School where we will be for the next 5 weeks. We were to meet our teachers at 9:30 am, but none of them were even close to being on time. There is American time, and there is African time. At the school, they were holding the Handover Ceremony where the old prefects turn over the power to the new prefects. This was really cool! It was to start at 8:00 am, but when we talked in at 10:30, they still had not begun. We sat at the head table and were introduced and welcomed many times. For the entertainment portion, one or two students would get up with the microphone and lip sync to an American song. Rap was the most popular music to lip sync, but several students also chose some songs from the Latin invasion in the 1990’s. It was hysterical. The ceremony started around 11:00, and there were several speeches from the outgoing head UNSA (Ugandan National Students’ Association) and the outgoing head prefect. These two students were so well spoken, and their speeches were mostly about the success throughout the year, some of the failures, and the expectations of the next year’s prefects. The UNSA prefect began his speech by stating, “Do what you can to avoid what you cannot.” I love that!!! After these speeches, it was time for the “changing of the guard.” The outgoing prefect, the incoming prefect, and the guest of the incoming prefect came to the front of the hall. Holding the Holy Bible above his head, he recited the pledge to uphold the standards of the prefect system. Then the two prefects walked to opposite sides of the hall; they then walked to each other in the middle, and the outgoing prefect handed over his notebook to the incoming prefect. They either shook hands or hugged. It was really neat to watch and to be invited to attend. Next we heard speeches from the headmaster and the Chief Guest, who was the head of the PTA. One statement by the Headmaster that stood out to me was “hunger in dignity is better than bread eaten in slavery.” I think this sums up the attitude of the Acoli; they are very proud of who they are but not at all in an arrogant way. They simply want to live their lives and know peace. After each speech, the crowd applauded by tapping their foot on the ground. At one point, the emcee asked for “an enormous hand clap.” This enormous hand clap could only be described as a polite applause in America.
The ceremony ended at 1:15 pm, and then lunch was served. Because it was a big event, there was a buffet, which included white rice, millet (which is the consistency of brown silly puddy), goat stew (which had every single piece of the goat inside it), chicken stew (again, every single piece of chicken) and hot cabbage slaw (absolutely delicious). Close to the food serving table, two students held a pitcher of water and a basin for me to wash my hands. I wondered besides the obvious why this was so important. I quickly found out when I sat back down and realized that there was no silverware to use. In most places, they eat with their hands. So at least for lunch, I will be eating beans and posho with my hands every day. Good times…
After lunch, Sharon, Kate and I had to use the restroom, so we were guided to the pit latrine by one of the teachers. He walked us most of the way and then said, “it is just there behind that building.” Behind the building were 4 doors: 2 that led into showers and 2 that led into pit latrines. This trip to the pit latrines was the worst experience yet!!! There was one working pit latrine; the other had a lock on it (I guess it just got too disgusting to use). The pit latrine was full of flies and other bugs (could have been maggots?) because there were two pieces of poop laying on the back of the hole. And the smell… words cannot describe how horrendous it was. I tried to go in, but immediately began gagging. Sharon finally gave up and went to the shower to pee. Kate grabbed a long branch and pushed the two pieces of poop into the latrine. Once she did that, a lot of the mosquitoes lost interest. I took 3 deep breaths and went in although I did leave the door cracked and made Kate stand it front of it. It was a rough experience, but I got the job done. As we left the area, we realized that the teachers who had shown us the way were watching us the while time. They said, “We think you have fear.” We replied that we needed to just get used to it, which I think we will. Needless to say, I will live to be 110 and never forget that experience.
After lunch, we met the headmaster, named Norbert Oola, and he took us to his office. He spoke to us about the history of Sir Samuel Baker and how the war had affected it. Sir Samuel Baker opened in 1952 and has been a boarding school for boys. The school closed from 1988 to 1990 because the fighting was all around the school and not safe for the school. In 1995, 25 boys were abducted by the LRA in the middle of the night from one wing of the dormitory. 6 boys have still not returned. After the abduction, the boys would take turns sleeping in order to protect each other. Today during the ceremony, the dormitory prefects were thanked by saying, “You brought us to the light of the day.” After the abductions, the military stayed at the school until 2007 when the soldiers were removed. At that time, the school reverted to a boarding school. I would really love to spend some more time with him as I imagine his life has been remarkable.
I met with Grace for about 10 minutes as we were leaving, and she shared her school schedule with me. I am becoming more comfortable with her, so I think it will be a great experience. We begin Monday…
Friday, June 19, 2009
Toilet Paper
For those of you counting, I believe that I started with 15 rolls of travel toilet paper. At this point, subtract one.
Monday, June 29: Subtract another roll. I am down to 13.
Friday, July 3: Subtract another roll. Now 12.
Friday, July 10: Subtract two more rolls. One for actual toilet paper use and one because several of us have runny noses (we think from the dust and chalk). Now 10.
Monday, June 29: Subtract another roll. I am down to 13.
Friday, July 3: Subtract another roll. Now 12.
Friday, July 10: Subtract two more rolls. One for actual toilet paper use and one because several of us have runny noses (we think from the dust and chalk). Now 10.
Learning the Ways of the Acoli- Thursday, June 18
Our orientation began yesterday morning, and it has been jam packed full of information. We first met with Jolly, the country director for Invisible Children. For those of you who have seen the IC Roughcut, you know her as the woman who got it all started or as the woman who can open a Coke bottle with her teeth. Let me just say that in person, she does not disappoint. She has a very calming presence, but underneath you realize that she is a woman of steel and determined to make life better for the Acoli people. We also met Jared and Erica from Invisible Children. All three were very informative about IC Uganda and their goals here in Gulu and the surrounding areas. Some interesting factoids that we learned from Jolly:
Ugandan teachers are the lowest paid government employees in the country.
The brother of the Ugandan president tried to bribed the three filmmakers not to show the documentary.
The S4S partner schools here in Gulu have to invest 5% of the cost of the projects that IC does at their school. IC figures that it will take 5% each year to maintain the infrastructure once it is built, and that is up to the school.
The people of Gulu believe they will only have true peace once Joseph Kony is killed or arrested.
Our second session was with Balaam, one of the IC mentors. He spoke with us about the Lwo language, which is spoken by most of the people in Gulu. It was an interesting lesson and very overwhelming because their language is very different from ours. Their alphabet does not have the letters f, h, q, s, v, x and z, so the way that a word is spelled is not usually the way that it is pronounced. The meaning of the word can also change based on the intonation. For example, “apwoyo”, which is pronounced “afoyo” can mean “Thank you” or “rabbit” depending on how you pronounce it. I am pretty sure that I have been calling people “rabbit” all day when I wanted to thank them. The beauty of this country is that the people are so friendly and hospitable that they just go with it.
After lunch, we met with Walter, the headmaster of Pabo Secondary School, one of the schools in an IDP camp. He spoke with us about the customs and culture of Uganda. Some interesting points from him:
Shaking hands is very big here. It is their way of reinforcing the greeting and the pleasure or either meeting or seeing you. Hugging is not as it leads to the sex.
The Acoli are arable farmers; the soil in northern Uganda is the most fertile soil in the country. They demonstrate affection by feeding you.
They live in “clans” and eat together. Most often they will all eat from the same dish. You simply wash your hands and dig in.
Today, we were introduced to Jennifer, the head of education at IC Uganda. She spoke with us about the educational system in Uganda and also about the war and its effects on the people of Gulu. Some interesting facts from her:
Educational System:
The students attend primary school for 7 years, lower secondary school for 4 years, higher secondary for 2 years and then possibly 3 years of university. At the end of each school they sit for the national exam. This determines whether they move to the next level. The same national exam is taken by every student in the Ugandan school system.
Their school year begins in February and consists of 3 terms, and each term in 3 months long. They then have a month off. They sit for their exams in October to December.
Attendance is not compulsory; a teacher could have a range of ages in one stream (level).
The government does not often provide enough teachers for a school. Most of the time, the PTA (yes, the same one as in the states) will step in and pay for more teachers or supplement the salaries of those already there.
As a government teacher, you have no control over where you teach. Once you have taught in the same school for 10 years, you are automatically moved somewhere else. The government figures you have no more ideas to share with that school, so you must move to a new school to share your ideas.
War:
Joseph Kony believed that the Acoli (of which is he a member) were all evil and the best thing to do was to kill them. He felt he could “save” the children by abducting them and teaching them a new way of life.
Lots of atrocities occurred. To prevent people from exposing the whereabouts of the LRA, the soldiers would literally padlock their lips shut. They would also cut off lips, ears, noses, legs so they couldn’t run, etc.
Villages were destroyed. People who survived these attacks were told to take the dead people, cut them up into small pieces, cook them and then eat them. By the time the survivors had cooked the remains of the dead, the LRA would shoot them.
People were forced into IDP camps by the government. If the people were hesitant to leave their homes, the government soldiers would burn them down so the people no longer had an option. Because they were forced to move, they had to leave their land and could no longer farm, forcing them to become dependent on handouts- something the Acoli people are very against.
They have had relative peace now for 2 years, but the recovery has been slow, and they are not quite at ease yet.
The Gulu people are some of the most beautiful people I have ever seen in my life. I mean this in the physical sense and the emotional sense. The women are tall, slender but muscular, and they have such a regal walk. The men are tall, built and just beautiful. They smile, and the world becomes a little bit brighter. They are also so friendly and happy to have us here. Everyone speaks and wants to know more about you. They smile, laugh and help me with my terrible butchering of their language. We are often called “muno” or “mzungu,” which means “white person.” The children will yell it at you and say hello. And they stare in a very curious way. I find them so beautiful that often I stare back. I enjoy walking through the town and interacting with them. I feel very safe here (don’t worry, Dad, I am being careful and never by myself).
One last thing I will talk about. The main form of “public transportation” is called the boda boda, which is a motorcycle or dirt bike. I took my first ride yesterday, which was fun but a little nerve wracking. The roads here are truly terrible; most are dirt, there are HUGE potholes, dips, etc. The boda drivers are very good though and know exactly how to go to avoid the bad spots. One more thing about riding a boda boda: When wearing a skirt, women must ride side saddle. I tried this today for the first time even though I have been wearing capris because I figured I had to get used to it. Riding side saddle is a whole different experience because your center of gravity is completely different. You hold on with your left hand to the back handle (you NEVER touch the driver!) and place your bag in your lap. I am gaining confidence in this and figure since I will riding one to and from Sir Samuel Baker every day that by the end of this trip, I will be ready for my own motorcycle (Just kidding!!).
Ugandan teachers are the lowest paid government employees in the country.
The brother of the Ugandan president tried to bribed the three filmmakers not to show the documentary.
The S4S partner schools here in Gulu have to invest 5% of the cost of the projects that IC does at their school. IC figures that it will take 5% each year to maintain the infrastructure once it is built, and that is up to the school.
The people of Gulu believe they will only have true peace once Joseph Kony is killed or arrested.
Our second session was with Balaam, one of the IC mentors. He spoke with us about the Lwo language, which is spoken by most of the people in Gulu. It was an interesting lesson and very overwhelming because their language is very different from ours. Their alphabet does not have the letters f, h, q, s, v, x and z, so the way that a word is spelled is not usually the way that it is pronounced. The meaning of the word can also change based on the intonation. For example, “apwoyo”, which is pronounced “afoyo” can mean “Thank you” or “rabbit” depending on how you pronounce it. I am pretty sure that I have been calling people “rabbit” all day when I wanted to thank them. The beauty of this country is that the people are so friendly and hospitable that they just go with it.
After lunch, we met with Walter, the headmaster of Pabo Secondary School, one of the schools in an IDP camp. He spoke with us about the customs and culture of Uganda. Some interesting points from him:
Shaking hands is very big here. It is their way of reinforcing the greeting and the pleasure or either meeting or seeing you. Hugging is not as it leads to the sex.
The Acoli are arable farmers; the soil in northern Uganda is the most fertile soil in the country. They demonstrate affection by feeding you.
They live in “clans” and eat together. Most often they will all eat from the same dish. You simply wash your hands and dig in.
Today, we were introduced to Jennifer, the head of education at IC Uganda. She spoke with us about the educational system in Uganda and also about the war and its effects on the people of Gulu. Some interesting facts from her:
Educational System:
The students attend primary school for 7 years, lower secondary school for 4 years, higher secondary for 2 years and then possibly 3 years of university. At the end of each school they sit for the national exam. This determines whether they move to the next level. The same national exam is taken by every student in the Ugandan school system.
Their school year begins in February and consists of 3 terms, and each term in 3 months long. They then have a month off. They sit for their exams in October to December.
Attendance is not compulsory; a teacher could have a range of ages in one stream (level).
The government does not often provide enough teachers for a school. Most of the time, the PTA (yes, the same one as in the states) will step in and pay for more teachers or supplement the salaries of those already there.
As a government teacher, you have no control over where you teach. Once you have taught in the same school for 10 years, you are automatically moved somewhere else. The government figures you have no more ideas to share with that school, so you must move to a new school to share your ideas.
War:
Joseph Kony believed that the Acoli (of which is he a member) were all evil and the best thing to do was to kill them. He felt he could “save” the children by abducting them and teaching them a new way of life.
Lots of atrocities occurred. To prevent people from exposing the whereabouts of the LRA, the soldiers would literally padlock their lips shut. They would also cut off lips, ears, noses, legs so they couldn’t run, etc.
Villages were destroyed. People who survived these attacks were told to take the dead people, cut them up into small pieces, cook them and then eat them. By the time the survivors had cooked the remains of the dead, the LRA would shoot them.
People were forced into IDP camps by the government. If the people were hesitant to leave their homes, the government soldiers would burn them down so the people no longer had an option. Because they were forced to move, they had to leave their land and could no longer farm, forcing them to become dependent on handouts- something the Acoli people are very against.
They have had relative peace now for 2 years, but the recovery has been slow, and they are not quite at ease yet.
The Gulu people are some of the most beautiful people I have ever seen in my life. I mean this in the physical sense and the emotional sense. The women are tall, slender but muscular, and they have such a regal walk. The men are tall, built and just beautiful. They smile, and the world becomes a little bit brighter. They are also so friendly and happy to have us here. Everyone speaks and wants to know more about you. They smile, laugh and help me with my terrible butchering of their language. We are often called “muno” or “mzungu,” which means “white person.” The children will yell it at you and say hello. And they stare in a very curious way. I find them so beautiful that often I stare back. I enjoy walking through the town and interacting with them. I feel very safe here (don’t worry, Dad, I am being careful and never by myself).
One last thing I will talk about. The main form of “public transportation” is called the boda boda, which is a motorcycle or dirt bike. I took my first ride yesterday, which was fun but a little nerve wracking. The roads here are truly terrible; most are dirt, there are HUGE potholes, dips, etc. The boda drivers are very good though and know exactly how to go to avoid the bad spots. One more thing about riding a boda boda: When wearing a skirt, women must ride side saddle. I tried this today for the first time even though I have been wearing capris because I figured I had to get used to it. Riding side saddle is a whole different experience because your center of gravity is completely different. You hold on with your left hand to the back handle (you NEVER touch the driver!) and place your bag in your lap. I am gaining confidence in this and figure since I will riding one to and from Sir Samuel Baker every day that by the end of this trip, I will be ready for my own motorcycle (Just kidding!!).
Traveling to Gulu- Wednesday, June 17
We have had a busy two days. Once we left Backpacker’s Hostel on Tuesday morning, we headed to two local craft markets to look at their wares. It was unreal as you could find some of the most beautiful items. It is expected that you bargain, and ultimately you end up paying ¾ of the asking price. It’s hard to bargain in the sense that most of the items are very cheap (according to American standards), but IC (Invisible Children) says to bargain for two reasons: 1) The Ugandan people consider it an insult if you don’t bargain and 2) it does not help the local economy to pay full price because then it raises the prices for the locals as well.
We then headed to Bavubuka House. A famous Ugandan rapper named Sirus (sp) has returned to Kampala and created this house for teenage boys and girls. The children learn the arts, including rap, screen printing, jewelry making, purse making, etc. They are then able to sell their wares and remain in a positive environment. This visit was amazing; you could really see how excited the boys were about their accomplishments. This is one example of positive change happening in Uganda. The boys were asked the question, “What do you think about American hip-hop?” Their answered, “Hip-hop is dead in America. Traditionally, hip-hop represents the hope of a group of people. Now all American hip-hop is about the bling, the fancy cars, and being tough; it’s not really about the people anymore and their struggles.” I almost yelled out, “Amen!”
After visiting Bavubuka House, we left for the journey to Gulu. This trip took 6 hours on a two lane road. As we drove, we would pass through small villages. On the road at these villages were speed bumps about every 20 feet and about 20 of them. The trip was very bouncey and uncomfortable, but it was a great bonding time for our group. The countryside is absolutely beautiful. Because of the rain, everything is very lush and rich. Evidently, northern Uganda has the richest soil in the country, so everything grows really well. The sunset was one of the most beautiful that I have ever seen in my life. We crossed over the Nile River, and it was breathtaking; however I have no doubt that the whitewater adventure will be extreme!!! We also saw a bunch of baboons sitting by the roadside around the Nile as well. They are so precious, but I have been told very curious and playful (as in taking cameras, etc.).
We are in Gulu. It has two paved roads, and the rest are dirt roads. We are staying at Katherina’s Hotel and Restaurant. It is new and actually really nice by Gulu standards. We are in double rooms, and I am sharing with Sharon, the teacher from Lake Wylie, SC. Each room has two single beds with mosquito nets, a plastic chair, a small end table and plastic bin drawers. There are 4 showers and 4 pit latrines. We arrived, and the power failed. It also failed while at dinner. However because of generators, it has not been that big of deal.
This blog is already very long. The next one will contain: our orientation, meeting the people, etc.
We then headed to Bavubuka House. A famous Ugandan rapper named Sirus (sp) has returned to Kampala and created this house for teenage boys and girls. The children learn the arts, including rap, screen printing, jewelry making, purse making, etc. They are then able to sell their wares and remain in a positive environment. This visit was amazing; you could really see how excited the boys were about their accomplishments. This is one example of positive change happening in Uganda. The boys were asked the question, “What do you think about American hip-hop?” Their answered, “Hip-hop is dead in America. Traditionally, hip-hop represents the hope of a group of people. Now all American hip-hop is about the bling, the fancy cars, and being tough; it’s not really about the people anymore and their struggles.” I almost yelled out, “Amen!”
After visiting Bavubuka House, we left for the journey to Gulu. This trip took 6 hours on a two lane road. As we drove, we would pass through small villages. On the road at these villages were speed bumps about every 20 feet and about 20 of them. The trip was very bouncey and uncomfortable, but it was a great bonding time for our group. The countryside is absolutely beautiful. Because of the rain, everything is very lush and rich. Evidently, northern Uganda has the richest soil in the country, so everything grows really well. The sunset was one of the most beautiful that I have ever seen in my life. We crossed over the Nile River, and it was breathtaking; however I have no doubt that the whitewater adventure will be extreme!!! We also saw a bunch of baboons sitting by the roadside around the Nile as well. They are so precious, but I have been told very curious and playful (as in taking cameras, etc.).
We are in Gulu. It has two paved roads, and the rest are dirt roads. We are staying at Katherina’s Hotel and Restaurant. It is new and actually really nice by Gulu standards. We are in double rooms, and I am sharing with Sharon, the teacher from Lake Wylie, SC. Each room has two single beds with mosquito nets, a plastic chair, a small end table and plastic bin drawers. There are 4 showers and 4 pit latrines. We arrived, and the power failed. It also failed while at dinner. However because of generators, it has not been that big of deal.
This blog is already very long. The next one will contain: our orientation, meeting the people, etc.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Greetings from Kampala
Greetings from Kampala!
After two fulls days and nights of airports and flying, we safely arrived at Entebbe International Airport, which was about 45 minutes south of Kampala, the capitol of Uganda. Because of our layover in London, we were able to go out into the city, wander around, get some exercise, and eat fish and chips. It was nice to be out of the airport for several hours.
We arrived at 7:45 am Uganda time. Uganda time is 7 hours ahead of South Carolina. I have been wearing two watches, but now have taken off the South Carolina watch. First impressions: Uganda is beautiful. The soil is is red, the foliage is green, and everyone is very friendly. Actually, I noticed several of the same types of trees as in South Carolina. The weather is warm; I would say low 80s with a nice breeze and very little humidity. It is much nicer here that South Carolina right now.
We dropped off our stuff at the Backpacker's Hostel in Kampala, had time to freshen up (but no shower yet) and left to go to Garden City, a shopping center to pick up supplies and exchange money. The exchange rate is $1= 2100 shillings, so I am carrying around large bills (but it's not a lot of money). After taking care of that, we headed to Lubiri Secondary School, a really good school here in Gulu. We met Michael, Joley's brother from the IC videos, who teaches at Lubiri. He showed us around. Amy, the head of the Teacher Exchange, wants us to compare this school with the schools we will be at in Gulu. I have a feeling it will be similar to South Carolina urban schools vs. Corridor of Shame schools. We visited the library, a science classroom, an art classroom, the teacher's lounge, dormitories, etc. It is very basic, very clean and the children are beautiful. Everyone was very friendly and very excited to answer our questions. I feel that the students here truly get how fortunate they are to be able to attend school, and the government seems to really promote education as it pays for the top students from the schools to attend university.
We are resting for a couple of hours before we head to an Indian restuarant for dinner. I am exhausted and very excited about sleeping horizontally tonight.
After two fulls days and nights of airports and flying, we safely arrived at Entebbe International Airport, which was about 45 minutes south of Kampala, the capitol of Uganda. Because of our layover in London, we were able to go out into the city, wander around, get some exercise, and eat fish and chips. It was nice to be out of the airport for several hours.
We arrived at 7:45 am Uganda time. Uganda time is 7 hours ahead of South Carolina. I have been wearing two watches, but now have taken off the South Carolina watch. First impressions: Uganda is beautiful. The soil is is red, the foliage is green, and everyone is very friendly. Actually, I noticed several of the same types of trees as in South Carolina. The weather is warm; I would say low 80s with a nice breeze and very little humidity. It is much nicer here that South Carolina right now.
We dropped off our stuff at the Backpacker's Hostel in Kampala, had time to freshen up (but no shower yet) and left to go to Garden City, a shopping center to pick up supplies and exchange money. The exchange rate is $1= 2100 shillings, so I am carrying around large bills (but it's not a lot of money). After taking care of that, we headed to Lubiri Secondary School, a really good school here in Gulu. We met Michael, Joley's brother from the IC videos, who teaches at Lubiri. He showed us around. Amy, the head of the Teacher Exchange, wants us to compare this school with the schools we will be at in Gulu. I have a feeling it will be similar to South Carolina urban schools vs. Corridor of Shame schools. We visited the library, a science classroom, an art classroom, the teacher's lounge, dormitories, etc. It is very basic, very clean and the children are beautiful. Everyone was very friendly and very excited to answer our questions. I feel that the students here truly get how fortunate they are to be able to attend school, and the government seems to really promote education as it pays for the top students from the schools to attend university.
Group 2 is great. Most of us met on Saturday while waiting for the flight to London. It feels as if we have known each other a long time and were just catching up. I look forward to learning from the people of Uganda as well as the people in Group 2. They are fun to be around.
We are resting for a couple of hours before we head to an Indian restuarant for dinner. I am exhausted and very excited about sleeping horizontally tonight.
Friday, June 12, 2009
The Adventure Begins... Before the Actual Adventure Begins
It is now Friday. One day until I fly from Myrtle Beach, SC to Charlotte, NC to New York City to London to Kampala, Uganda. I am still packing...
Why do you ask am I still packing? Well, my plan for yesterday was to get one last hair cut and color in at 3:00 pm and then head back home to pack and organize my house. In the midst of my salon experience, a terrible storm came up; we are talking dark ominous clouds, sharp lightening, flood-like rain... Halfway through the styling portion of my salon trip, the power went out. "No big deal", I thought, "I'm just going home anyway." So I gave Artana my payment and headed out as the rain lightened up.
I drove home only to pull into the driveway and click on my garage door opener... nothing. I clicked it again... nothing. The power was out at my house, which for anyone else would not be a big deal. However I had no way of getting into my house because I have yet to put keys to the sunroom on my key ring. It was 5:30 pm, and I locked out (unless I broke a window, which I didn't think was wise right before I left the country). I sat there for about 30 minutes thinking, "Surely the power will return any minute now." It didn't. I finally called the bestest friend in the world, aka Katie, and asked if I could come over. I was over at Katie's until 10:45 pm when the power finally came back on. She fed me dinner, tried to help me break into my house when I got desperate about 8 pm, and then let me fall asleep in her super comfortable chair watching WALL-E (which I didn't finish). Needless to say, I got home and went straight to bed as Katie and I had a final run scheduled for 6 am this morning.
I realized that this incident was God's way of telling me: "You know, Lisa, you are going to be living somewhere with unpredictable electricity for 6 weeks... You may as well start getting used to it."
Why do you ask am I still packing? Well, my plan for yesterday was to get one last hair cut and color in at 3:00 pm and then head back home to pack and organize my house. In the midst of my salon experience, a terrible storm came up; we are talking dark ominous clouds, sharp lightening, flood-like rain... Halfway through the styling portion of my salon trip, the power went out. "No big deal", I thought, "I'm just going home anyway." So I gave Artana my payment and headed out as the rain lightened up.
I drove home only to pull into the driveway and click on my garage door opener... nothing. I clicked it again... nothing. The power was out at my house, which for anyone else would not be a big deal. However I had no way of getting into my house because I have yet to put keys to the sunroom on my key ring. It was 5:30 pm, and I locked out (unless I broke a window, which I didn't think was wise right before I left the country). I sat there for about 30 minutes thinking, "Surely the power will return any minute now." It didn't. I finally called the bestest friend in the world, aka Katie, and asked if I could come over. I was over at Katie's until 10:45 pm when the power finally came back on. She fed me dinner, tried to help me break into my house when I got desperate about 8 pm, and then let me fall asleep in her super comfortable chair watching WALL-E (which I didn't finish). Needless to say, I got home and went straight to bed as Katie and I had a final run scheduled for 6 am this morning.
I realized that this incident was God's way of telling me: "You know, Lisa, you are going to be living somewhere with unpredictable electricity for 6 weeks... You may as well start getting used to it."
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Preparing for My Trip
It is now Sunday night... 6 days until I depart. I am trying to organize my house and life since I will be gone from my current reality for 6 weeks. I am also trying to lay out clothes and supplies, update my iPod with Beach Music and tranquil sleeping music, but I am beginning to feel overwhelmed by all that I want to pack and the stark realization that it will not fit in 1 suitcase.
I have a full week ahead of errands and finishing up any work at school that will not last. Hopefully it will keep my mind off the butterflies in my stomach. This experience will be awesome in so many ways that I hope my brain will be able to process it as much as possible. As most people know, I am a planner by nature, and this trip is a big unknown. I believe that I will learn a lot about myself over the next 6 weeks. Will I like what I see...
I have a full week ahead of errands and finishing up any work at school that will not last. Hopefully it will keep my mind off the butterflies in my stomach. This experience will be awesome in so many ways that I hope my brain will be able to process it as much as possible. As most people know, I am a planner by nature, and this trip is a big unknown. I believe that I will learn a lot about myself over the next 6 weeks. Will I like what I see...
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