We are absolutely, positively in our house, FINALLY!! I’m sitting right now in the front room on one of the couch chairs, Jackie and Ashley are, as always, discussing plans about the next couple of days, but mostly for tomorrow. Our day was extremely productive, we got a ton done and we are all very tired. The deal went through on the house. We got it for $500/month with electricity and water. It will end up costing just barely over a dollar a day for everybody to live here the first wave, and under a dollar a day for the second wave. We made three trips from MTA today with bunk-beds, supplies from last year, and all of our luggage. The people that were living in this house have turned out to be some amazing people, so kind and generous and very helpful. Jackie and I planned on cleaning the place when we got here so we got up pretty early to make that happen. When we got here they were ALL over it, cleaning everything, under everything, the sinks, the works. We were so grateful. We offered to help, but we didn’t really get involved with the cleaning. Instead, I began setting up the bunk beds and rearranging all of the rooms to make the beds work the best way possible. I also helped at MTA load a bunch of beds, then I drove to Lugazi with two men that were helping, we were great to talk to. The one I was sitting next to told me that he would love to visit or move to America but that is was only a dream, that was very humbling. The driver was nuts, but a good one. We were swerving, dodging, speeding, etc. I was sort of scared for my life, in which case I prayed my life be spared. We got there pretty quick though, which was nice. When we got there we unloaded the bunks and then my work began. I spent many hours arranging and setting up the beds, it was tiring and by the end I was wiped. Again, the arab family that moved to the boy’s quarters behind the house were so unbelievably helpful to us and made the whole thing happen much quicker. I met some new friends, one of which I really really love already. There names are Edith (18), Achalam (18 & another 13), Achmed (20), Salim (19 son), Laula (12 year old daughter), Wudá (mom), Salina (grandmother), and Zahará (sister of grandma). Edith is my new friend, so sweet, so helpful, and I just love her! She’s 18 and has her head on straight. I asked her who could do a load of my laundry, she mentioned she could do it, I asked her how much and she told me “nothing, for free.” I was absolutely blown away. I couldn’t even handle it. I immediately told her that I couldn’t do it for free because I “needed” to pay her. She asked why I needed to pay her, I told her because I felt like she deserved to work for money. I told her I wanted to hire her for the 11 weeks that I will be here, she agreed. The I said that since she had agreed that I would need to pay her for her work over the next 11 weeks, again, she told me “for free.”
Before all of this had happened with the laundry, I had Edith, and both Achalams (the 2 girls have the same name) in my room. They were just watching me unpack and observing everything. I could tell they thought I had a lot of stuff, which I do, I felt kinda embarrassed because I’m so dang high maintenance. I got the big candy bag out and and handed them some candy to try. They liked it and even kind of laughed because of the difference from their own candy, it was so great. We conversed in there for at least 30 minutes, the last of which was a mini lesson in Luganda. I asked about some key phrases and got them written down. I was told by Deo the other day that I have the best Luganda accent he has EVER heard from a Muzungu (white person), I was pretty happy about that and I’m sure my face was glowing. Quite an accomplishment for only 3 days in the country. I plan on leanring as much as I can so that I can feel like I’m a part of the people.
I’m so happy to be in a house, I can’t even express how good it feels. It’s the closest westernized thing available to us and it just makes me feel less away, less in a 3rd world country, etc. The standards of this house in Lugazi are spectacularly high, probably a good 9.0 out of 10. As far as utah standards, it would be about a 3 out of 10, not too good. But, having lived in New York for 2 years, I know what this type of housing is all about and it’s 100% OK, I’m beyond grateful to be here. I can now unpack my suitcase, hang up some clothes and just have a space for ME!
Later on in the evening while Ashley was gone with Peggy getting light-bulbs and keys made for all of the volunteers, Jackie and I went out and got something to eat. She wasn’t hungry but she came along anyway to give me some company, I really appreciated it. I had matooke (plantain), chipati (tortillas), and an Irish potato with some broth from the meet they prepare, it was pretty good. I liked the chipati that Bill’s niabo (madam) fixed us, it was tortilla style and much better. When I ordered, I guess the waitress understood that we wanted two plates of food, so Jackie accidentally got one, I felt bad, I still need to give her some money for that. On our way back, the most ridiculous things happened to us. It was dark, we had just gotten on the main road, Jackie was talking on the phone. All of the sudden I see Jackie drop like a rock and I freaked! She had fallen in the ditches that line the streets here in Lugazi. Her foot landed in some nasty mud soup that was probably highly contaminated. She scraped up her knee, leg, and arm. When we got a little further, we came to a hill of dirt; I decided I would walk it at an angle, not a good idea. I totally fell on my butt and scraped up my arm as well as getting dirty the nice white shirt I had just put on. I jacked up my wrist too! It has been hurting for the last day or so and I totally landed on it, I hope it’s not bruised and out for the count, I sort of need it.
We sat in the house for about 3 hours tonight just relaxing and planning (that part was mostly JackAsh; Jackie and Ashley…hehe..that’s what I call them when I’m angry at them, it’s so perfect). It felt so nice to just relax and settle in. Now I’m in my new bunk, on the bottom, next to the window, my new place for the next 11 weeks. I hope I sleep well, I need to solidify the contact I made... with myself... ok, I’m tired. I’m so excited to be here, until tomorrow.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Day 7 - Lugazi
As we set out today, we had new plan in mind to make sure that we’d be able to survive in Lugazi as far as language is concerned. The last couple of days we have been supplemented with the mayor and the town council to help translate for us and communicate our ideas in a way they’d understand. We soon realized that we needed to be able to communicate with them on our own or all of our volunteer service would be wasted because with without communication, how in the world is ANYTHING supposed to get done!? It won’t! So we made some contacts today and discovered that we really can communicate enough with the people in order to help them the most. Mission accomplished.
We set out today early in the morning for Mukono Town Academy, a primary school, to get all of our things out of storage and cleaned up. It was by far one of the worst things I’ve ever had to do as far as cleaning and heebie-jeebies. There were spiders and their webs absolutely everywhere, the beds covered with droppings, dust, a dead smelling putrified rat, a dehydrated yet living gecko, and this list goes on. We had to ditch the mattress that the rat had died on, it was saturate with dead rat guts and a smell that nearly killed us. We also had to get rid of a mosquito net or two, what a shame. I took the responsibility of taking the wooden bunks out one by one and cleaning them up, scrubbing them down with water and a brush to get rid of all the webs, spiders, and cockroach droppings. I got 5 1/2 beds done before we had to leave. Jackie cleaned the plastic chairs while Ashley worked on taking all the sheets off the the mattresses to be washed. There were a lot of supplies that will be very useful to us so we were happy about that.
After finishing at MTA, we went and caught a taxi to Lugazi. We had a small meeting with Bill, a guy that we met a couple days ago who has lived on and off in Lugazi for 5 years now, about 6 months out of the year. He was so great to us, I really enjoyed talking to him and I have a good feeling about him. Unfortunately, he’s leaving in the middle of the month so we only have him for a short time. He returns at the end of July which sucks because I will have left town. We asked him many questions and got a lot of extremely good information about the town, it’s people, and what to expect. I feel like we got information that will be beneficial to us as we work with the people here. We had mentioned that we wanted to go to lunch and when we got there we realized that he had his house lady fixing us some food, it ended up being so delicious. We had squash, chicken soup, chapati, watermelon, amazing pineapple, irish potatoes, and an orange Fanta. The meal was great and so was the talk. From there he took us up to Hope Children’s Home where he is supporting many many children, a total of 90 kids, not all in this school however; they had 38. The grounds was great, the kids were so warm and nice. When we got out of the car, Bill initiated a string of hugs, I got a hug from every kid that was there, it was heart melting. They were so sweet and all I wanted to do was help them. We got a tour of their living quarters and they were well kept and pretty nice (as far as things Ugandan). We were then showed the gardens which covered immense ground, it was stunning. So lush and green and full of great food. They grow bananas (both matooke and sweet), passion fruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, beans, tomatoes, and cabbage. I learned some things about the different fruits that’s pretty interesting. It takes a full year to get bananas from a tree as well as a pineapple. We made our way from the kid’s quarters to where the school/church is located. We watched as people worshiped in this church that was open, no walls, except on one side and it was made of bamboo. There were benches inside and a type of podium up from. After observing, we were invited to watch what they do when they worship. The are two drummers and a person that gives the “sermon.” There was singing, dancing, and clapping of hands all involved. It was unbelievable experience to be a part of a group of Christians half way across the world basically in the middle of the jungle worshipping God. Again, it was very surreal, and experience I will never forget. We later introduced ourselves and I introduced myself in Lugandan, they got a pretty big kick out of it.
After having been dropped off by Bill’s driver back in Lugazi, I returned my pepsi bottle and then we made our way to the bank. We had to check out the bank to make sure that it accepted all types of cards so that we wouldn’t have a problem getting money out while we are there. We were a little bit nervous being a couple of muzungus walking in a bank to get money. The people here know and expect that we have money, so it can be scarry. We then went to an internet café that ended up being pretty ghetto, the internet crapped out on us so we got out of there and got on a taxi for Mukono. I was super drowsy in the taxi and did a bit of drifting off. We finally got back to Mukono after a TON of stops on the freaking taxi. We went to another internet café because we didn’t get finished in Lugazi. I didn’t get any e-mails from the family, kinda sad. Oh well, not to worry, they have lives too. After internet we went home and Jackie and Ashley went up and talked with Deo.
WE GOT THE HOUSE!!! We have been negotiating with these Indians to get a decent price and we think we have so we are extremely happy about it! The house is REALLY nice for Uganda and will help us feel a bit more westernized which is important because we need a resort after a long day’s work. Deo and the town council have offered to get us a guard as well as 6 dorms if we were to need them during the second wave. We have seriously been hooked up in Lugazi and we are very excited to be working there. I’m going to do some research to see if I can get us some internet for the house. We were told it is $60/month which is definitely doable with all of us pitching in. It would be beyond nice to have internet at home. I and others would be able to have much more communication with family and we’d be able to contact HELP via e-mail and do research if needed. Deo has given us a truck to use tomorrow and it will be here at 9:00am to pick up all of our things. We are planning on getting up around 8am to get ready and have breakfast before we load it up! It’s going to be so nice to be in a house and settle in, it’s not fun to live out of an unorganized suitcase and deal with all of that. We are going to clean the crap out of it and make it all nice... pardon my French.
We set out today early in the morning for Mukono Town Academy, a primary school, to get all of our things out of storage and cleaned up. It was by far one of the worst things I’ve ever had to do as far as cleaning and heebie-jeebies. There were spiders and their webs absolutely everywhere, the beds covered with droppings, dust, a dead smelling putrified rat, a dehydrated yet living gecko, and this list goes on. We had to ditch the mattress that the rat had died on, it was saturate with dead rat guts and a smell that nearly killed us. We also had to get rid of a mosquito net or two, what a shame. I took the responsibility of taking the wooden bunks out one by one and cleaning them up, scrubbing them down with water and a brush to get rid of all the webs, spiders, and cockroach droppings. I got 5 1/2 beds done before we had to leave. Jackie cleaned the plastic chairs while Ashley worked on taking all the sheets off the the mattresses to be washed. There were a lot of supplies that will be very useful to us so we were happy about that.
After finishing at MTA, we went and caught a taxi to Lugazi. We had a small meeting with Bill, a guy that we met a couple days ago who has lived on and off in Lugazi for 5 years now, about 6 months out of the year. He was so great to us, I really enjoyed talking to him and I have a good feeling about him. Unfortunately, he’s leaving in the middle of the month so we only have him for a short time. He returns at the end of July which sucks because I will have left town. We asked him many questions and got a lot of extremely good information about the town, it’s people, and what to expect. I feel like we got information that will be beneficial to us as we work with the people here. We had mentioned that we wanted to go to lunch and when we got there we realized that he had his house lady fixing us some food, it ended up being so delicious. We had squash, chicken soup, chapati, watermelon, amazing pineapple, irish potatoes, and an orange Fanta. The meal was great and so was the talk. From there he took us up to Hope Children’s Home where he is supporting many many children, a total of 90 kids, not all in this school however; they had 38. The grounds was great, the kids were so warm and nice. When we got out of the car, Bill initiated a string of hugs, I got a hug from every kid that was there, it was heart melting. They were so sweet and all I wanted to do was help them. We got a tour of their living quarters and they were well kept and pretty nice (as far as things Ugandan). We were then showed the gardens which covered immense ground, it was stunning. So lush and green and full of great food. They grow bananas (both matooke and sweet), passion fruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, beans, tomatoes, and cabbage. I learned some things about the different fruits that’s pretty interesting. It takes a full year to get bananas from a tree as well as a pineapple. We made our way from the kid’s quarters to where the school/church is located. We watched as people worshiped in this church that was open, no walls, except on one side and it was made of bamboo. There were benches inside and a type of podium up from. After observing, we were invited to watch what they do when they worship. The are two drummers and a person that gives the “sermon.” There was singing, dancing, and clapping of hands all involved. It was unbelievable experience to be a part of a group of Christians half way across the world basically in the middle of the jungle worshipping God. Again, it was very surreal, and experience I will never forget. We later introduced ourselves and I introduced myself in Lugandan, they got a pretty big kick out of it.
After having been dropped off by Bill’s driver back in Lugazi, I returned my pepsi bottle and then we made our way to the bank. We had to check out the bank to make sure that it accepted all types of cards so that we wouldn’t have a problem getting money out while we are there. We were a little bit nervous being a couple of muzungus walking in a bank to get money. The people here know and expect that we have money, so it can be scarry. We then went to an internet café that ended up being pretty ghetto, the internet crapped out on us so we got out of there and got on a taxi for Mukono. I was super drowsy in the taxi and did a bit of drifting off. We finally got back to Mukono after a TON of stops on the freaking taxi. We went to another internet café because we didn’t get finished in Lugazi. I didn’t get any e-mails from the family, kinda sad. Oh well, not to worry, they have lives too. After internet we went home and Jackie and Ashley went up and talked with Deo.
WE GOT THE HOUSE!!! We have been negotiating with these Indians to get a decent price and we think we have so we are extremely happy about it! The house is REALLY nice for Uganda and will help us feel a bit more westernized which is important because we need a resort after a long day’s work. Deo and the town council have offered to get us a guard as well as 6 dorms if we were to need them during the second wave. We have seriously been hooked up in Lugazi and we are very excited to be working there. I’m going to do some research to see if I can get us some internet for the house. We were told it is $60/month which is definitely doable with all of us pitching in. It would be beyond nice to have internet at home. I and others would be able to have much more communication with family and we’d be able to contact HELP via e-mail and do research if needed. Deo has given us a truck to use tomorrow and it will be here at 9:00am to pick up all of our things. We are planning on getting up around 8am to get ready and have breakfast before we load it up! It’s going to be so nice to be in a house and settle in, it’s not fun to live out of an unorganized suitcase and deal with all of that. We are going to clean the crap out of it and make it all nice... pardon my French.
Day 6 - Lugazi
As often happens in life, we get built up one day and ripped down the next. We went to Lugazi yesterday for the first time and found out a lot of information and made really good contacts. The town counsels members to acting mayor Deo have been incredibly helpful and I have fallen in love with each of them, they are so kind and willing to do whatever we need.
We started our day out at the the Mukono Town Academy, a school located nearby us. I took my first boda boda ride today and it was great. His boda wasn’t that nice however, the springs were bottoming out and it was a bit rickety, but oh well. We got to the school and found the room where our bunks and other equipment is being held. EVERYTHING was covered in spider webs and rodent droppings. There is going to be some serious washing going on when we finally get to it. Christopher Mugimu, the headmaster of the school, has been holding it for us for free. He told us that he would have a couple of his guys help us get everything cleaned up, so nice of him. It’s going to take a good half a day to get everything ready to move in. The first thing however will be getting a house. We are in the middle of negotiating a price for rent for a house in Lugazi. They are giving us crap and I hope it doesn’t last long, we really need the house. It’s a GREAT house, furnished, and very nice for Uganda. There is a lot of room and even a front room to just chill with a TV and a couch or two.
We spoke to 3 different groups of people today. Two women’s groups and a room full of politicians, it was pretty amazing to say the least. I even spoke some Lugandan, they got a kick out of it. I introduced myself and told them what I doing in Uganda, where I was from, and that I was glad to be there. I honestly feel like this is National Geographic and that I’m doing something HUGE, and I am!!! That’s what’s so great about it. How many people can say that they’ve been to Uganda, Africa, even Mukono or Lugazi for that matter and say that they worked amongst the people for 2 1/2 months. I have the experience of a lifetime and I HAVE to make the most of it.
Second, we went to the internet café sending off some e-mails. Ashley and Jackie did personal e-mailing and then e-mailing to HELP and its volunteers. I got an e-mail from my mom today that she sent two days ago. It was great to hear from here. I haven’t had access to the internet since I got to Uganda and its been a little tough. Internet sort of makes me feel better, more connect with home, I guess I will have to learn to live without it. I type a really long e-mail to mom and got out some feelings that I’ve had, it felt good to vent and know that she cares. The internet experience here in Mukono wasn’t all that however. The power went out 2 times and the internet was pitifully slow. Even to load google took a long time, it was slower than dial-up for sure. I got to my e-mail eventually however and it was nice to get and send mail. I sipped on a Pepsi while I did so, it was great, out of glass.
After e-mail, we made our way to the taxi yard and caught a taxi to Lugazi, 1500 shillings, not bad. The ride was rickety, as always, and a bit scary with them driving crazy on the roads. We finally got there however and met up with Deo at the Patron Hotel to discuss what we were going to do. That’s when we made out way into some villages and introduced ourselves. In one village, we played games (Jackie and Ashley actually, I did the recording) with the kids, it was one of the greatest things I’ve ever seen. For as little as these kids have, it was as amazing how happy they were. Seeing the muzungus for them was like going to a freak show, and they love it. They smile, wave, want to shake your hand and interact with you. They played games for about 20 minutes while we waited for Deo to get back from his political discussions with the village people. While we waited for Deo after the last discussion, Barbara took us to two clinics and the hospital in Lugazi, I wasn’t too impressed. I was even a bit scared about the whole situation and I’m not sure I want to work there. The conditions just weren’t suitable for me. The electricity wasn’t even on and this was a national hospital. I didn’t have a great feeling about it and wonder now whether or not I’ll be doing any medical help at all. We did however visit with a Doctor who works in Kampala and as far as we know the hospital there is quite nice. I had the idea that I could go to town with him when he goes and save a taxi ride, and then maybe even be his assistant. I’m going to discuss that more with the CDs and the doctor to see if that is a possibility.
We sat around a table outside of the Parton Hotel discussing many details about the housing situation and the concerns that Jen has for us in Lugazi. I got mosquito bites which makes me a little nervous. But, I’m on the doxy and I have to trust that will protect me. I will inevitably get bit while I’m here so I’m just going to have to relax about that. I had a Fanta orange soda while we talked. The discussion got pretty heated and the town council really showed that they wanted us there and that they are willing to do whatever it takes for us to be in Lugazi. Deo has even offered us a guard for free while we are there for 4 months and even 6 rooms in a boys quarters for free if we absolutely needed the room.
Now I’m sitting in the meeting area of our nice guest room aside from the house. Jackie and Ashley are over at the table talking about plans for tomorrow while we are by ourselves in Lugazi. There is so much to do, plan, and actuate before the volunteers get here. It’s a bit overwhelming to be honest. I hope we get through it quick and I can’t wait for the other volunteers to get here. It’s not very fun to watch 2 country directors sit back and do all of this planning and not really be apart of the whole thing. I think that is part of the reason that I have been having the feelings that I do about being nervous to be here and getting all those irrational thoughts. I will be doing my best to stay positive. Until tomorrow.
We started our day out at the the Mukono Town Academy, a school located nearby us. I took my first boda boda ride today and it was great. His boda wasn’t that nice however, the springs were bottoming out and it was a bit rickety, but oh well. We got to the school and found the room where our bunks and other equipment is being held. EVERYTHING was covered in spider webs and rodent droppings. There is going to be some serious washing going on when we finally get to it. Christopher Mugimu, the headmaster of the school, has been holding it for us for free. He told us that he would have a couple of his guys help us get everything cleaned up, so nice of him. It’s going to take a good half a day to get everything ready to move in. The first thing however will be getting a house. We are in the middle of negotiating a price for rent for a house in Lugazi. They are giving us crap and I hope it doesn’t last long, we really need the house. It’s a GREAT house, furnished, and very nice for Uganda. There is a lot of room and even a front room to just chill with a TV and a couch or two.
We spoke to 3 different groups of people today. Two women’s groups and a room full of politicians, it was pretty amazing to say the least. I even spoke some Lugandan, they got a kick out of it. I introduced myself and told them what I doing in Uganda, where I was from, and that I was glad to be there. I honestly feel like this is National Geographic and that I’m doing something HUGE, and I am!!! That’s what’s so great about it. How many people can say that they’ve been to Uganda, Africa, even Mukono or Lugazi for that matter and say that they worked amongst the people for 2 1/2 months. I have the experience of a lifetime and I HAVE to make the most of it.
Second, we went to the internet café sending off some e-mails. Ashley and Jackie did personal e-mailing and then e-mailing to HELP and its volunteers. I got an e-mail from my mom today that she sent two days ago. It was great to hear from here. I haven’t had access to the internet since I got to Uganda and its been a little tough. Internet sort of makes me feel better, more connect with home, I guess I will have to learn to live without it. I type a really long e-mail to mom and got out some feelings that I’ve had, it felt good to vent and know that she cares. The internet experience here in Mukono wasn’t all that however. The power went out 2 times and the internet was pitifully slow. Even to load google took a long time, it was slower than dial-up for sure. I got to my e-mail eventually however and it was nice to get and send mail. I sipped on a Pepsi while I did so, it was great, out of glass.
After e-mail, we made our way to the taxi yard and caught a taxi to Lugazi, 1500 shillings, not bad. The ride was rickety, as always, and a bit scary with them driving crazy on the roads. We finally got there however and met up with Deo at the Patron Hotel to discuss what we were going to do. That’s when we made out way into some villages and introduced ourselves. In one village, we played games (Jackie and Ashley actually, I did the recording) with the kids, it was one of the greatest things I’ve ever seen. For as little as these kids have, it was as amazing how happy they were. Seeing the muzungus for them was like going to a freak show, and they love it. They smile, wave, want to shake your hand and interact with you. They played games for about 20 minutes while we waited for Deo to get back from his political discussions with the village people. While we waited for Deo after the last discussion, Barbara took us to two clinics and the hospital in Lugazi, I wasn’t too impressed. I was even a bit scared about the whole situation and I’m not sure I want to work there. The conditions just weren’t suitable for me. The electricity wasn’t even on and this was a national hospital. I didn’t have a great feeling about it and wonder now whether or not I’ll be doing any medical help at all. We did however visit with a Doctor who works in Kampala and as far as we know the hospital there is quite nice. I had the idea that I could go to town with him when he goes and save a taxi ride, and then maybe even be his assistant. I’m going to discuss that more with the CDs and the doctor to see if that is a possibility.
We sat around a table outside of the Parton Hotel discussing many details about the housing situation and the concerns that Jen has for us in Lugazi. I got mosquito bites which makes me a little nervous. But, I’m on the doxy and I have to trust that will protect me. I will inevitably get bit while I’m here so I’m just going to have to relax about that. I had a Fanta orange soda while we talked. The discussion got pretty heated and the town council really showed that they wanted us there and that they are willing to do whatever it takes for us to be in Lugazi. Deo has even offered us a guard for free while we are there for 4 months and even 6 rooms in a boys quarters for free if we absolutely needed the room.
Now I’m sitting in the meeting area of our nice guest room aside from the house. Jackie and Ashley are over at the table talking about plans for tomorrow while we are by ourselves in Lugazi. There is so much to do, plan, and actuate before the volunteers get here. It’s a bit overwhelming to be honest. I hope we get through it quick and I can’t wait for the other volunteers to get here. It’s not very fun to watch 2 country directors sit back and do all of this planning and not really be apart of the whole thing. I think that is part of the reason that I have been having the feelings that I do about being nervous to be here and getting all those irrational thoughts. I will be doing my best to stay positive. Until tomorrow.
Day 5 - Lugazi
Last night we set some goals and had a prayer that all that we had talked about would come to pass and that we would have success. Today was above and beyond what we had expected. We had breakfast early, around 7:50am, and then made our way to the taxi yard absolutely FULL of taxis, it was crazy. We left Mukono and arrived in Lugazi 40 minutes later around 9:10am. Deo received us into his 2nd home very warmly as he did the first. Deo is the mayor of Lugazi and is also a polygamist, so he has a wife in Mukono and one in Lugazi. The home in Lugazi was just as nice, if not nicer than the one here in Mukono.
Deo was of tremendous help today. Not only did he taxi us around the entire town of Lugazi, but he introduced us to 3 or 4 school headmasters, 4 of his counselors, 2 women’s groups, and a women that works in the hospital. We found a house today! It’s absolutely perfect, I don’t think it could get much better. It has 4 rooms with one GIANT master bedroom, 1 1/2 baths, a kitchen, a refrigerator that needs a little fixing, a from room with couches and a TV! There is a courtyard right outside the front door which would be perfect for getting together outside for dinner and whatnot. It’s in a great central location in Lugazi, though Deo suggested that we have a guard. As a write, Ashley is on the phone with Jenn right now working out the last details about the place. I hope that we get it, it will be perfect.
Deo took us on an incredible tour of the town; it is beautiful to say the very least. I seriously felt like I was on national geographic walking with the Ugandan people up on the hill above the school. There were kids all around, most of them following us. We checked out the school and learned that it was incomplete and needed some more work. A floor needed to be laid and the walls plastered. We will be looking into our funds for that, I hope we can get a project approval through and make it happen. We continued up the hill where we were able to see the entire town of Lugazi, it was breath taking. The sky was storming in the distance, it was pure green everywhere you looked, and I couldn’t have been happier. It was absolutely amazing. I’ve never felt the way I did standing on top of that hill. I felt like I was in another world; I was. We proceeded on to find women with make-shift hammers breaking up rocks. They did this all day for about 8 hours in the hot sun. I got down and broke with them for about 2 minutes and broke a sweat immediately. The rocks are mixed with cement and sand as a floor base. They would fill a truck load in about a week and they’d earn 15,000 shillings, not very good considering. I took some pictures, we got some footage and then we made out way back. We made many trips around the town, it was fascinating and fun to wave to all of the kids. It was crazy to see the looks on some of the kids faces, as if they had never seen a white person before... funny thing is, that’s probably the case.
Deo has been incredibly helpful up to this point, not even charging us for our room and board. I have learned to love the people that works with him and I hope that they aren’t involved in his cunning works. They were extremely helpful today and I hope to work with them in the future.
We got cell phones today, sim cards were quite inexpensive. It was only 3,000 USH for a sim card which allows any and all incoming calls for free, so basically you get your own number for $1.75 We then bought a large amount of minutes for one of the phones. I thought about getting myself a sim and putting it in my phone. I tried the MTK and it didn’t work, I have yet to try the CelTel. It it does, that would be awesome.
We had a great dinner. Mashed potatoes all flavored up (and a bit salty, but way good) with some beans in a yummy sauce and of course that extra delicious passion fruit drink that we have had for three meals now. Mum has been so great to us and making us excellent food. I’m jealous of those dang BYU kids that will be staying in the house and getting all that yummy food. Meanwhile, I’ll be loosing weight... I hope that’s not the case.
Now it’s time for bed. Another day has gone by and it was a long one, about 12 hours long. I got some amazing pictures, ones that will supplement this jounal entry and help me to remember exactly what I experienced and just how I felt. Last night was hell, I sure hope I can sleep this evening. I was very tired today and I can’t be like that anymore. Until tomorrow.
Deo was of tremendous help today. Not only did he taxi us around the entire town of Lugazi, but he introduced us to 3 or 4 school headmasters, 4 of his counselors, 2 women’s groups, and a women that works in the hospital. We found a house today! It’s absolutely perfect, I don’t think it could get much better. It has 4 rooms with one GIANT master bedroom, 1 1/2 baths, a kitchen, a refrigerator that needs a little fixing, a from room with couches and a TV! There is a courtyard right outside the front door which would be perfect for getting together outside for dinner and whatnot. It’s in a great central location in Lugazi, though Deo suggested that we have a guard. As a write, Ashley is on the phone with Jenn right now working out the last details about the place. I hope that we get it, it will be perfect.
Deo took us on an incredible tour of the town; it is beautiful to say the very least. I seriously felt like I was on national geographic walking with the Ugandan people up on the hill above the school. There were kids all around, most of them following us. We checked out the school and learned that it was incomplete and needed some more work. A floor needed to be laid and the walls plastered. We will be looking into our funds for that, I hope we can get a project approval through and make it happen. We continued up the hill where we were able to see the entire town of Lugazi, it was breath taking. The sky was storming in the distance, it was pure green everywhere you looked, and I couldn’t have been happier. It was absolutely amazing. I’ve never felt the way I did standing on top of that hill. I felt like I was in another world; I was. We proceeded on to find women with make-shift hammers breaking up rocks. They did this all day for about 8 hours in the hot sun. I got down and broke with them for about 2 minutes and broke a sweat immediately. The rocks are mixed with cement and sand as a floor base. They would fill a truck load in about a week and they’d earn 15,000 shillings, not very good considering. I took some pictures, we got some footage and then we made out way back. We made many trips around the town, it was fascinating and fun to wave to all of the kids. It was crazy to see the looks on some of the kids faces, as if they had never seen a white person before... funny thing is, that’s probably the case.
Deo has been incredibly helpful up to this point, not even charging us for our room and board. I have learned to love the people that works with him and I hope that they aren’t involved in his cunning works. They were extremely helpful today and I hope to work with them in the future.
We got cell phones today, sim cards were quite inexpensive. It was only 3,000 USH for a sim card which allows any and all incoming calls for free, so basically you get your own number for $1.75 We then bought a large amount of minutes for one of the phones. I thought about getting myself a sim and putting it in my phone. I tried the MTK and it didn’t work, I have yet to try the CelTel. It it does, that would be awesome.
We had a great dinner. Mashed potatoes all flavored up (and a bit salty, but way good) with some beans in a yummy sauce and of course that extra delicious passion fruit drink that we have had for three meals now. Mum has been so great to us and making us excellent food. I’m jealous of those dang BYU kids that will be staying in the house and getting all that yummy food. Meanwhile, I’ll be loosing weight... I hope that’s not the case.
Now it’s time for bed. Another day has gone by and it was a long one, about 12 hours long. I got some amazing pictures, ones that will supplement this jounal entry and help me to remember exactly what I experienced and just how I felt. Last night was hell, I sure hope I can sleep this evening. I was very tired today and I can’t be like that anymore. Until tomorrow.
Day 4 - Mukono
We have finally arrived in Mukono, Uganda, Africa. I am still in a daze, I can’t actually believe that I’m here. I feel like it’s a dream or that I’m actually somewhere familiar, but that’s obviously not the case. We caught our plane this morning at the Schiphol, the plane left a little late. Luckily we made up for time in the air which is common-place and arrived in Entebbe, Africa around 8pm. The plane ride was much better this time around, it went pretty quick actually, maybe because I have already done it once this trip, but in all reality the plane was nicer. The service was great, I watched a movie, had 2 or 3 diet cokes, was served lunch and dinner. The seats reclined just enough more than the last the last plane that I could actually lay my head back and I ended up sleeping for a good 3 hours, to my surprise. We arrived in Entebbe and the first thing I was greeted by was the warm and very humid air. It was very weird, something I’ve only felt in certain places like Hawaii and New York, but this is much worse. The next friendly greeting was from all of the flying bugs littering the sky just above my head because of all of the lights that shined down to give light to us walking off the plane, down a staircase. We waited outside until Jackie’s host family from 5 years ago picked us up. While waiting I used the restroom and took out 100,000 shilling... though i’m not sure what that equates to in US Dollars. Jackie did it so I followed suit.
The car ride from Entebbe to Mukono was anything but nice. They had planned on 2 of us, but there were three. So we crammed four of us, us 3 and one of the kids in the back seat, the lady and the son sat in front and the father drove. The worst part about the ride was the horrible air that filled the cabin as we drove from the airport into town. It was about a 40 minutes car ride if I remember right, and the whole time I was breathing the nasty air. It was part smoke from fires, part exhaust from all of the motor vehicles, and part stench from the the humidity mixed with people and animals, not the most desirable. But, the experience was worth it and I'm glad I had it.
I found out this guy is the acting mayor of Mukono and he also holds another important responsibility that I don’t recall. He is very kind and giving. The mother (one of two, he’s a polygamist) fixed us a great meal. Some sort of mixture with peas in it and a type of gravy-like sauce, with boiled skinned potatoes. The best part was the passion fruit juice that was served, unreal, too good to be true, the REAL deal. I enjoyed the dinner and was very grateful. I hope that I can eat well enough that my intestines will behave.
I found my first gecko tonight, in my room even. He was SUPER cool. I went to get a picture of him but he jumped of my finger. There will be more and I’ll get a great picture. Jackie and Ashley did some planning this evening so that we can make tomorrow as effective as possible. Our first priority is to get sim cards for the phones and get some housing. Once we get housing, we’ll really be able to move forward.
Now here I am, sitting on my bed for the night under a mosquito net. The place is actually really nice considering what’s around us (mud huts). We found out tonight the water doesn’t work, which for Ashley, doesn’t seem to be a problem. She’s kind of granola, ok, she’s TOTALLY granola. Mom would yap at me if I didn’t shower, I’m glad she does. I think it’s totally gross and very unflattering to NOT shower. Anyway, enough of that. It’s hot, very hot. Humid and hot. I’m not sure how I’m going to sleep tonight. This is the worst possible situation to be in as far as sleep conditions go. I like the cold, I don’t do hot, I CAN’T sleep in hot. I’m wondering what exactly I’m going to do. Jackie is in the other room sweating her guts out as well. Meanwhile Ashley is in her room loving it...whatever.
The car ride from Entebbe to Mukono was anything but nice. They had planned on 2 of us, but there were three. So we crammed four of us, us 3 and one of the kids in the back seat, the lady and the son sat in front and the father drove. The worst part about the ride was the horrible air that filled the cabin as we drove from the airport into town. It was about a 40 minutes car ride if I remember right, and the whole time I was breathing the nasty air. It was part smoke from fires, part exhaust from all of the motor vehicles, and part stench from the the humidity mixed with people and animals, not the most desirable. But, the experience was worth it and I'm glad I had it.
I found out this guy is the acting mayor of Mukono and he also holds another important responsibility that I don’t recall. He is very kind and giving. The mother (one of two, he’s a polygamist) fixed us a great meal. Some sort of mixture with peas in it and a type of gravy-like sauce, with boiled skinned potatoes. The best part was the passion fruit juice that was served, unreal, too good to be true, the REAL deal. I enjoyed the dinner and was very grateful. I hope that I can eat well enough that my intestines will behave.
I found my first gecko tonight, in my room even. He was SUPER cool. I went to get a picture of him but he jumped of my finger. There will be more and I’ll get a great picture. Jackie and Ashley did some planning this evening so that we can make tomorrow as effective as possible. Our first priority is to get sim cards for the phones and get some housing. Once we get housing, we’ll really be able to move forward.
Now here I am, sitting on my bed for the night under a mosquito net. The place is actually really nice considering what’s around us (mud huts). We found out tonight the water doesn’t work, which for Ashley, doesn’t seem to be a problem. She’s kind of granola, ok, she’s TOTALLY granola. Mom would yap at me if I didn’t shower, I’m glad she does. I think it’s totally gross and very unflattering to NOT shower. Anyway, enough of that. It’s hot, very hot. Humid and hot. I’m not sure how I’m going to sleep tonight. This is the worst possible situation to be in as far as sleep conditions go. I like the cold, I don’t do hot, I CAN’T sleep in hot. I’m wondering what exactly I’m going to do. Jackie is in the other room sweating her guts out as well. Meanwhile Ashley is in her room loving it...whatever.
Day 3 - Amsterdam
Well, another day gone by, and the last one here in Amsterdam. The days have actually passed pretty quick. We stay quite busy, lots of walking and looking around, I kinda feel like a missionary again in that sense. We got up pretty early today... OK, not really. It was only 9:20am. Yeah. We WERE going to get up earlier, but we were sort of tired. We woke up to Ashley in our faces, waking us up, I felt like such a dork. We got ready and made our way to the Anne Frank Museum. Ashley felt the need to take us the long way, the REALLY long way. As in, we walked an extra mile to get there and it took 45 minutes, if not longer. It was only 15 minutes away in the first place... GRRRRR! But we forgave her and had a great time. It was the actual place that Anne Frank hid when the Nazis were after the Jews. It was here and a couple of others that hid there for I think 2 years until they were finally found out. It was interesting to be in the same confines as Anne herself and the others. We were in the tiny rooms they hid in and saw some of the decorations the Anne had made on the wall to spruce things up during their stay. I’m very glad I went, it gave me a new respect for her and her journal entries.
After Anne Frank, Ashley took off to the flower garden in Keukenhof, she stayed for a long time, longer than she anticipated she loved it so much. In the meantime, Jackie and I were out getting gifts for my family, it was so hard. I hate shopping for gifts for my family, it’s so dang hard. But, luckily, I got something for everybody but dad. But he’s OK, I’m sure he’d just want me to get something for the rest of the family. Jackie tagged along and was a good sport while I did the shopping. After we got done sending that stuff off, 19 Euros later (just to send), we found out the all of Amsterdam isn’t as ghetto as where we have been staying. It’s actually quite beautiful and we found that out by going south on a random tram. We have decided that we’ll give Amsterdam a second chance in the future.
We met back up with Ashley and hung out in the Hostel bar for about 2 hours. We just talked about Europe and Africa and our plans once we get there. It was nice to just sit for while, we have been up and on the run since we got here and my shoulders are getting a bit tired from taking my backpack around with my camera and four lenses. But that’s the price one must pay in order to get awesome pictures, which I did. After we chatted, we made our way to Vondle Park, on the southwest part of town. We discovered that it would have been very beautiful had we been there in the day, unfortunate that we weren’t. Ian met up with us and took us to a bar called something like Blue Tea House, or something along those lines. He offered us drink, of course we told him Coke Light (ashley and I), but Jackie got a nice steaming cup of hot chocolate, it was freezing outside. We sat around and talked for a while and finally got up and made our way home. We had to stop by Ians to get Ashley’s luggage. We then caught the #1 tram and took it to Central where we got off and walked home. It was kind of a big ordeal, but we were happy to help. I may have just been very tired. And here I am, typing at 1.:46 in the morning; what can I say, I’m a night owl.
That was our day, our last day. We get up tomorrow at 7:15am, check-out of the hostel at 8:00am, and have a flight to catch at 11:10am. It’s another long 8 hour flight, but this time I’ll be listening to music and talking with Jackie and Ashley, as long as they don’t fall asleep that is. Until tomorrow.
After Anne Frank, Ashley took off to the flower garden in Keukenhof, she stayed for a long time, longer than she anticipated she loved it so much. In the meantime, Jackie and I were out getting gifts for my family, it was so hard. I hate shopping for gifts for my family, it’s so dang hard. But, luckily, I got something for everybody but dad. But he’s OK, I’m sure he’d just want me to get something for the rest of the family. Jackie tagged along and was a good sport while I did the shopping. After we got done sending that stuff off, 19 Euros later (just to send), we found out the all of Amsterdam isn’t as ghetto as where we have been staying. It’s actually quite beautiful and we found that out by going south on a random tram. We have decided that we’ll give Amsterdam a second chance in the future.
We met back up with Ashley and hung out in the Hostel bar for about 2 hours. We just talked about Europe and Africa and our plans once we get there. It was nice to just sit for while, we have been up and on the run since we got here and my shoulders are getting a bit tired from taking my backpack around with my camera and four lenses. But that’s the price one must pay in order to get awesome pictures, which I did. After we chatted, we made our way to Vondle Park, on the southwest part of town. We discovered that it would have been very beautiful had we been there in the day, unfortunate that we weren’t. Ian met up with us and took us to a bar called something like Blue Tea House, or something along those lines. He offered us drink, of course we told him Coke Light (ashley and I), but Jackie got a nice steaming cup of hot chocolate, it was freezing outside. We sat around and talked for a while and finally got up and made our way home. We had to stop by Ians to get Ashley’s luggage. We then caught the #1 tram and took it to Central where we got off and walked home. It was kind of a big ordeal, but we were happy to help. I may have just been very tired. And here I am, typing at 1.:46 in the morning; what can I say, I’m a night owl.
That was our day, our last day. We get up tomorrow at 7:15am, check-out of the hostel at 8:00am, and have a flight to catch at 11:10am. It’s another long 8 hour flight, but this time I’ll be listening to music and talking with Jackie and Ashley, as long as they don’t fall asleep that is. Until tomorrow.
Day 2 - Amsterdam
We had a great day today. We made our way to Keukenhof, a place where they grow flowers, mainly tulips. There is a sort of theme part that shows all of these flowers, it was rather amazing. I didn’t know exactly what to expect and I had high hopes. It greatly exceeded my expectations and I’m very happy I went. While Jackie did some recording, I was taking pictures, lots of them. They turned out pretty good too. The only weird thing that came out was the red, and I hope it’s not because I have my camera set on “Landscape” mode. I had fresh strawberries with whipped cream, and an authentic brautworst, it was pretty good, although the bun was a bit small and it would have taken two buns to fit the thing. Luckily, the guy cut in half and Jackie and I each had a half. We ended up staying for about 3 hours, 1 of which was used to doze off under a monstrous tree on velvety soft grass; it was serene. I could have slept for hours, it was Alice’s Wonderland for sure.
I still can’t believe that I’m here, it still hasn’t registered. I guess more than anything I feel like I’m just on a short vacation and things are going be back to normal soon. This is not the case however, and it only about to get worse. Although our living conditions will be mildly okay, that of the Ugandans will not be, nor will their hygiene, among other things. We have seen Amsterdam and have deemed it a rat hole, as far as the inner-city goes of course. Is it fun? Absolutely. Would I want to stay long, most definitely not. It’s a place you come to for no more than a week, visit all of the cool parks, museums, and shops and then get the hell out. It’s a sleazy slime bag of a place, one full of perversion and drugs. While the people are nice an willing to help, it’s not the best environment. As I write, I have a tiny bit of a headache. I’m not sure if that from all of the nicotine and weed I breathed in today, or my lack of caffein; lets hope for the latter.
We moved hostels today. We only stayed in the first one, Bob’s Youth Hostel, for the first night as the other nights were booked and have since moved to Meetingpoint Youth Hostel. It seems to be cleaner and more well kept. The price is about 2.50 but no breakfast. Regardless, it’s a bit cheaper. Luckily I’ve had WiFi in both buildings, something I didn’t count on but was hopeful of. It has aloud me to communicate with my family which is so great.
Today was a pretty funny day, full of laughs at the flower park. We came back to town and walk around a little bit. I did a little bit of shopping after my grandpa told me to spend some money and get some souvenirs, and also to try and send something to the girls. I bought a couple of post cards at the flower park, I’ll get those sent of tomorrow, they should enjoy that.
Ashley got in to town today and has been staying with a guy named Ian; the “I” says like it’s pronounced. He came over later in the evening after she had arrived, he was pretty cool. Ashley is participating in something called couch surfing. A program where people volunteer space in their home for people to come and stay, random people. For Ashley is has turned out to be a great experience, as this isn’t her first time doing it. We went out and found a thing called a “Squat,” an abandoned building turned bar. When the building is abandoned and no one takes it over for a year, people are legally aloud to go in and claim the property and turn it into whatever they want. The drinks are cheaper at squats. Ian bought us a drink. I had vodka...haha, just kidding. I had a Coke as did Ashley. Jackie stuck with water because they didn’t have “light” also known as “diet.” Ian proceeded to have a beer. It was a different atmosphere that a regular bar. You could call it a ghetto bar, yes, with ghetto people inside. People otherwise rejected in public seens (from my observations.)
We went to Burger King for a late dinner. I had two burgers (kids), a med fry, and a small 10 oz shake thing. It case me 6.50 euros, also known as EXPENSIVE in USD. Oh man, I’m so done spending money here, it makes me sick. Our dollar is just horrible.
I’m not sitting on my bed typing in my journal. We are on the fourth floor of Meetingpoint Youth Hostel. I’m on the top bunk of bed #11 and I’m looking out the window down to the streets of Amsterdam. It’s quite a seen. It has settled down a lot, but there is still commotion and will continue to be for a couple of hours I’m sure.
I still can’t believe that I’m here, it still hasn’t registered. I guess more than anything I feel like I’m just on a short vacation and things are going be back to normal soon. This is not the case however, and it only about to get worse. Although our living conditions will be mildly okay, that of the Ugandans will not be, nor will their hygiene, among other things. We have seen Amsterdam and have deemed it a rat hole, as far as the inner-city goes of course. Is it fun? Absolutely. Would I want to stay long, most definitely not. It’s a place you come to for no more than a week, visit all of the cool parks, museums, and shops and then get the hell out. It’s a sleazy slime bag of a place, one full of perversion and drugs. While the people are nice an willing to help, it’s not the best environment. As I write, I have a tiny bit of a headache. I’m not sure if that from all of the nicotine and weed I breathed in today, or my lack of caffein; lets hope for the latter.
We moved hostels today. We only stayed in the first one, Bob’s Youth Hostel, for the first night as the other nights were booked and have since moved to Meetingpoint Youth Hostel. It seems to be cleaner and more well kept. The price is about 2.50 but no breakfast. Regardless, it’s a bit cheaper. Luckily I’ve had WiFi in both buildings, something I didn’t count on but was hopeful of. It has aloud me to communicate with my family which is so great.
Today was a pretty funny day, full of laughs at the flower park. We came back to town and walk around a little bit. I did a little bit of shopping after my grandpa told me to spend some money and get some souvenirs, and also to try and send something to the girls. I bought a couple of post cards at the flower park, I’ll get those sent of tomorrow, they should enjoy that.
Ashley got in to town today and has been staying with a guy named Ian; the “I” says like it’s pronounced. He came over later in the evening after she had arrived, he was pretty cool. Ashley is participating in something called couch surfing. A program where people volunteer space in their home for people to come and stay, random people. For Ashley is has turned out to be a great experience, as this isn’t her first time doing it. We went out and found a thing called a “Squat,” an abandoned building turned bar. When the building is abandoned and no one takes it over for a year, people are legally aloud to go in and claim the property and turn it into whatever they want. The drinks are cheaper at squats. Ian bought us a drink. I had vodka...haha, just kidding. I had a Coke as did Ashley. Jackie stuck with water because they didn’t have “light” also known as “diet.” Ian proceeded to have a beer. It was a different atmosphere that a regular bar. You could call it a ghetto bar, yes, with ghetto people inside. People otherwise rejected in public seens (from my observations.)
We went to Burger King for a late dinner. I had two burgers (kids), a med fry, and a small 10 oz shake thing. It case me 6.50 euros, also known as EXPENSIVE in USD. Oh man, I’m so done spending money here, it makes me sick. Our dollar is just horrible.
I’m not sitting on my bed typing in my journal. We are on the fourth floor of Meetingpoint Youth Hostel. I’m on the top bunk of bed #11 and I’m looking out the window down to the streets of Amsterdam. It’s quite a seen. It has settled down a lot, but there is still commotion and will continue to be for a couple of hours I’m sure.
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