New housing arrangement

Hey friends,
I've just received some new information about where I'll be staying in Gulu.

Hello everyone
Well- those of you in group 2, I am very excited to tell you about the new housing arrangement for you! We really hope this is a success, as it would be great to create a long term relationship with Katharina and the staff at her hotel/restaurant.

When in Gulu, you will lodge at Katharina's hotel and bar.
Katharina's is in the heart of Gulu town, near a landmark hotel called the Pearl Afrique. It is a very central location, with lovely management and staff.
You can take breakfast and dinner at Katharina's each day.
There are several upright showers and pit toilets available. Catherine Hanna will have the keys for those initially, and I am sure that a system will develop. Katharina's has power, a generator, and running water.
Mosquito nets, mattresses, pillows, and linens are provided. You should bring a towel.
If you can fit hangers into your luggage, this is a GREAT idea. If not, you can buy some in town. Each room will have some hooks for clothing .We are working on shelves.
Drinkable water will be available there. We are currently hiring someone who will be responsible for laundry each week. You will most likely be assigned one washday per week.
For those of you heading to Pabo and Atanga, you will be able to keep luggage here in Gulu while you are away as needed.

Katharina's restaurant (just across the way) will serve breakfast each day. You will coffee/tea have a choice of two including...

Banana
Pineapple
Chapatti (fried flatbread- delicious)
boiled eggs
bread
half cakes (like tea cakes)
samosas
mandazi

For dinner, she will provide many amazing local dishes including...
rice
beans
chapatti
goat
chicken
beef
boo (greens)
malakwang (greens with a sim sim sauce)
matooke (smashed plantain- love it)
sweet potato
Kasava
posho
millet

#1 June 9th- Tuesday

-Getting ready

It's hard to believe it, but it's time to go. Lisa and I are leaving for Irvine in the morning. I spent the day packing and getting the car ready for the summer. I met up with one of my best friends for breakfast and later I met up with Bryn and Elena. The next time I see them will be in Uganda! I've got plenty of packing to do and it's getting late. Hopefully, I'll have more interesting things to write soon.

#2 June 10th- Wednesday

-Getting ready

Not much to say, we drove down to Irvine in the morning. When we arrived hung out with family and got settled in. Everyone has been asking me if I'm excited about the trip. It's an interesting question. I've been wondering why I'm not brimming over with excitment. It's not that I don't relish the chance to serve and have an adventure, it's just that those emotions are cooled off my the reality that I'll be away from my girls for a LONG time.

#3 June 11th- Thursday

-Getting ready

Lisa and I took a walk around the lake with the girls today. Irvine is such an unbelievably beautiful place. While we were walking around the lake, I keep thinking about how much I'd like to stay here all summer with my girls. The reality of being away is really starting to set in and I find myself asking, "is it going to be worth it." I think I found my answer. This summer I'm on a quest to read the Bible cover to cover. In the book of Genesis, God tells Abraham that he is blessed to be a blessing. My life is clearly blessed. When I think of the people I work with, the woman I love, and the kids we cherish, I know I'm blessed. I've been asking myself, "why would you want to interupt a perfectly good thing?" The answer comes when I think about the millions of children who have no parents and limited hope for the future. For me it comes down to a choice between hope and fear. The fear in me says, I might not come back, my girls will miss me, I won't make a difference. The hope in me says, this was what I was created to do, change is possible, there is the possibility for a future and a hope for everyone.

On a lighter side, we went to Lisa's cousin's 8th grade graduation. It was good to see family. I bought a hand buzzer (from a magic shop). I thought it might be a fun prank in Uganda. I'm not sure what to bring, beyond the essentials. I bought a lazer pointer. I'm bringing Catch Phrase, an illustrated history book, a bunch of National Geographic Maps, an inflatable globe, AP World History flash cards, and sharpie pens. I was thinking that we could make flashcards out of wood chips or some other material. I'm bringing a nice watch for my Ugandan teaching counterpart, Yeko George. What a cool name!!! I can't wait to meet him. That's all for now.

#4 June 12th- Friday

-Getting ready

Yesterday was rough. I mean it was a great day. Lisa and I took the girls to the place where I proposed to her. We hung out all day and ended off with an fun game of Apples to Apples. After winning the game (legitamatly) it all started to hit Julia. She cried in my arms for almost an hour. It ripped my heart out. It made me second guess my choice to go. I didn't sleep at all last night. I stayed up and packed and prayed.

#5 June 13th- Saturday

-Leave LAX to NY to London to Uganda!!!!!!!!!

I'm ridiculously tired right now and I'm hoping to sleep through the flight to London. I met my team tonight. They all seem like really cool people. I think I've got all their names down, or close to it. I was able to chat with my girls and that was really comforting. Well, there is no need to go on about the travel part of the trip. My goal is to get some rest and trek out into London tomorrow.....oh yeah, and I've got to mention that I walked past a man who snores as loud as a bear growls. It made me jump and the people behind me thought it was pretty funny.

#7 June 15th- Monday

I have a map of Africa in my classroom. It was surreal to watch the image of our plane move past the Mediterranean Sea, over the Sahara and the Nile, to Lake Victoria. It was like a dream. The Entebbe airport is really small, but clean. Three of us lost luggage, so we were delayed trying to work that out.
We met Amy, the director at the airport. She has a lot of energy and has a vision for using drama in education. She has a 7 year old daughter named Hero who is coming next week. I wish I could have Julia come out with her. We loaded our bus and went off to the Backpacker’s Hostel in Kampala. I’m staying in a room with the guys and I made the mistake of sleeping on the top bunk. (It’s pretty warm up there). Backpacker’s is a rustic getaway with a bunch of 20 something travelers. At this point in the trip, I feel like a tourist. We are a bunch of American’s looking out from a bus like we are on safari in the city. We all feel awkward about this. I can hardly wait to get to know people here.
Later in the day, we went over to Garden City to exchange money. The exchange rate is $1 to 2,100 Ugandan shillings. Some of us cashed in $500 making us “Shillingionaires”. We bought minutes for Matt’s cell phone, which we will be able to share during the trip. I’m glad to say, It works! Lisa was able to call me and it was so good to hear her voice. I set her up on Skype before I left, so there is no cost for us to receive the call and very little cost for her to send it.
After the exchange, we traveled to the Lubiri School where we were hosted by Michael Okot, Jolli’s brother. The Luburi School is one of the best performing public schools in Uganda. Their motto is. “We learn by doing” The first thing I noticed was a couple students outside of the administration building checking out their grades. All student scores are public knowledge and they care very much about succeeding. Uganda has national standards that students must master if they are going to proceed to the university. The school has about 3,000 students and the average class size is between 60 and 80. We visited a few classrooms to get a feel for how a high performing Uganda school operates. For one thing, the classrooms have nothing but chalkboards and seats. There is a library where students have access a copy of their textbooks. All around the schools there are messages about AIDS painted on the wall like; AIDS is a fire, don’t add wood, Poverty invites AIDS, be industrious, Have compassions on those with AIDS, fight the stigma of AIDS.
We were also able to meet Jacob, from the original IC film. He was the boy who cried at the end. Jacob has grown so much. He is 20 years old next year and plans to go to the university. He is a gracious guy. We could hear some of his classmates giggling when Michael Okot pulled him out of class. He is handling his “celebrity status” very well.

Later, at Backpacker’s we hung out and saw some monkeys nearby. I got some very close up pictures. I was about 2 feet away. We have access to a shower, my first in 3 days! It was good to wash off the funk. At night we ate at Sam’s. It was really delicious Indian food. (As I write this, a monkey is jumping over my head in the tree!!!!) We ate with Emmy Okot, Jollie’s husband. He is a very warm and gracious person. When we got back to Backpacker’s I went straight to bed. One of the guys on the trips snored so loud that it made my bed rattle. I woke up to the Muslim call to prayer at 5 am. I’ll write more later!

#8 June 16th- Tuesday

-Visit Bavu Buka
-Visit Craft Market
-Travel to Gulu

Uganda has not been what I’ve expected. I’ve always been saddened by the stories of the Invisible Children and the challenges of poverty. What I’ve discovered is the while those stories are true, the way Ugandan’s face those challenges is humbling and inspiring. One example of this is the Bavu Buka All-Stars. In the morning we left the Backpacker’s and headed into a pretty rough part of Kampala. We stopped the bus in front of a hut-like home structure with young children looking up at us with huge white eyes sitting in dirt and trash. I’d compare Kampala to Mexico City in that there are examples of poverty along side development. This was a place of poverty, but also hope. We followed a dirty path into a home that was filled with beautiful art and a bunch of young boys and girls who had a story to share. These were artists, hip-hop performers, and young entrepreneurs. The Bavu Buka All-Stars exists to provide a space for students to get out of the ghetto and receive mentorship to develop their skills. The kids were eager to share their skills with us. I took video of their songs. I hope I am able to share. We asked them what they thought of American rap. They shared that they think American rap is dead. They said that American rap has lost its power because it doesn’t speak about the real needs of the people. They said that it doesn’t have a positive impact and that is why it is dead. I love how they are using their talents to encourage kids to make good choices and to speak honestly about important social issues. I asked them to let me record them giving a shout out to H20 (Winston Johnson) for his help with our Invisible Children benefit concerts. I shared one of his songs with them. They loved it. I think they might have a web site. Check it out.
From there, we left for Gulu. It was a 6 hour drive. The country is so beautiful. We crossed over the Nile River….the Nile River. The rapids are pretty wild. Later in this trip we are going to do a rafting excursion. On the ride up we played Catch Phrase and had a good time getting to know each other. It was a much less bumpy rode than I had expected. Today I learned that this is a result of the attention that has been given to Northern Uganda from the international community. When the conditions in Northern Uganda were exposed through films like the Invisible Children Rough Cut and War Dance; international observers were frustrated by the 8 to 10 hour bumpy ride to Gulu so they asked the government to make improvements. The sun goes down here around 7:30. We arrived in Gulu around 8pm. We are staying at a hotel called Katarine’s. I think it is a very nice place. I’m rooming with a guy named Matt Michelin. He is from Illinois, an English teacher, and it is his second year in the teacher exchange. He is also one of the guys that lost his luggage. We went out to eat at the Hotel Pearl Afrique. I asked for goat meat, but got chicken. It’s just good to be here. We met James, the director of Schools for Schools. We went back to the hotel and crashed. I’ll try to post a picture. Blessings.

#9 June 17th- Wednesday

I woke up at 5 am to the call to prayer. I wasn’t able to take a jog. We are locked into our hotel by a pad lock. I decided to do a cross fit training. It was good to get a sweat going. It isn’t light out until about 6:30 so I spent some time reflecting on the trip and praying. I’ve been thinking about Bryn and Elena. I know there parents may have concerns about Gulu, but I’ve got to say, this place is not the same place it was 6 years ago. Two years of peace have transformed the economic life of the city. It is bustling with activity. I just don’t have the word to describe what I’m seeing right now.
To start off, we have breakfast with African coffee. It’s awesome! It’s brewed with milk and honey. I had a banana, an avocado, and chapatti (like a fried tortilla). We walked down to the Invisible Children Intern House. In Uganda, white people are called Mozungu. It’s not meant to be an insult. In the past, while people were pretty rare around here. Now, there are many NGOs in the area. The people on the street are nice, but for the most part, they are just trying to get there jobs done. The streets are not paved. They are made of red dirt. I’ll take some pictures and try to get them posted.
At the IC house we met with Jolly Okot and Jarred White. They shared about the work IC is doing in the area. It is quite extensive. They shared how IC and other groups have been able to make an incredible impact in this area. I have so much respect for Jolly. She has been a motherly figure in the organization from the start and I don’t think IC would exist without her. One program they are working on will mobilize thousands of farmers to produce organic cotton. This will then be ginned and fabricated in Ugandan textile mills. At each step in the process, the money made in Uganda will stay in Uganda. There is more to say about this and I will forward a very good description of the work being done here soon.
Later we meet with a teacher named Balaam. He was our guide to the Luo language. He was an excellent teacher. I feel like I have a lot of work to do to become proficient, but he gave us all a great start. When it was time for lunch, we took a boda boda. On every road there are many young men on motorcycles. For 500 US they will take you where you need to go. It was pretty exciting to sit on the back of his bike as see Gulu. I’m thinking of going out on a boda boda to film the town.
Later in the afternoon we went to explore the town. I met a man named Carl who is living in Uganda working with children affected by the war. He is there with his wife Julie and 2 daughters who are 9 and 5. It was really cool to see a family so much like my own. Who knows, maybe next summer Lisa and the girls will be here with me. I was thinking of video taping everything, but I need to be careful with that. People are not part of the landscape and I don’t want to take pictures that will exploit them. I’m still trying to find that balance. I’ve been able to talk to Lisa and the girls everyday, and that is a great comfort.

#10 June 18th- Thursday

-Update on the war
-State of Education in Uganda
-Tour IC offices
-Arts in Acholiland (at Heals)

(Apwoyo-Thank you or hello)
Have you ever had one of those days that felt like a week? Each of the two days I’ve been in Gulu have been like that. I woke up for a jog a little after 6 am. I went running with my news friends Kevin, Bill, and Annie. We jogged down Pece (Peych-ey) Road and we got a few interested looks as we went down the road. It is not common for Ugandans to run unless there is an emergency. Most people take their time walking down the road talking with friends. My first impressions of Gulu have been that the town (soon to be a city) is bustling with economic opportunity. I have been thinking though that I am only seeing the surface. On the surface there are some examples of poverty. There are children with no shoes, but there are no beggars. There is trash along the road, but the interiors of all the buildings are very clean. The streets are congested with a few cars, many boda-boda’s (motorcycles), and many more people walking, and some bikes. On the jog we ran past a tree full of bats. I am glad it is near our hotel. The bats keep down the insect population. On the jog we passed the IC office. All offices of NGOs are typically gated compounds with barbed wire and broken glass on the tops of the walls. The sun rose and filled the African sky as we traveled down the red dirt road.
We came back around 7am just in time to say goodbye to our night guard. His name is David. He is a tall man with a warm smile and an AK-47. Another part of our hotel experience is a small black kitten who hangs out here. The kitten has invaded a few of our rooms. I have the job of getting him out of rooms. I bark like a dog and he rolls out. Today we took boda boda’s out to the IC house and met with an expert in the Ugandan education system. She shared that the system is driven by a few exams. Only 7% of Ugandans graduate from secondary school, but 70% of those who take to final assessments pass. There are many reasons that students fail to complete their education. The obvious reason here in Gulu has been the conflict. Up until recently, the test is given in Gulu regardless of the situation on the ground. Despite this, the scores in this region tend to be more competitive than you might expect. Kids see school as a privilege and not a right. All high school kids take 7 required classes and they have 3 elective classes. Our teacher shared that it is against Acholi tradition to beg. They feel humiliated by the need to rely on food assistance and they are eager to return to their farms and provide for their needs. Class sizes up here can be between 80 and 150. This is hard for me to conceptualize, and I think classes of 40 next year will seem a little less intimidating after this summer. I will meet my Ugandan teacher Yeko George on Friday night. I hope that we are able to develop a good relationship.
After the education talk, we had a break and returned to discuss the conflict. Historically speaking, Uganda has had a difficult history when it comes to succession of power. The history is defined by military coups. I wonder if this will repeat when it is time for the current president to cede power. Our teacher lived through the conflict hear terrorized by the LRA. She told us that the LRA would take pad locks and lock the lips of people they would find so as to send a message to others that they should not talk about LRA activities. This image is such a painful one for me to imagine and I can’t get it out of my head. After interacting with the people here, it seems so evil to torture people who possess such innocence. That is, no doubt just my impression of the people I have met, but there is a generosity of spirit and kindness that is undeniable. I am astonished by the resiliency to the situation. It is hard to imagine that a few short years ago it would have been unthinkable for me to walk down the streets I have been walking on.
After lunch at Kope Café (chicken curry) we met up in the IC offices. Most of the operations run by IC in Gulu are staffed almost exclusively by Ugandans. It is such a relief, yes relief to see that the money we have been raising over the past for years is actually making a meaningful difference in Gulu. I think I’ve always wondered if the assurances IC gives that money is making a change are really legit. Now that I am seeing it with my own eyes, I believe. I guess it is the doubting Thomas in me. On of the programs IC runs is called the Visible Child Program. This program provides a scholarship and a mentor to every student they serve. The mentors are qualified teachers who take this on as their full time job. The best part of this for me was that when I was walking home, I actually ran into a child who is on scholarship to Gulu High School. His name is Gustav. He shared what a difference this program has made for him. I told him that soon 2 blond haired muzungu would be coming to his school and that he should introduce himself. It would be fun if he spotted Bryn and Elena. Speaking of, they should be in Washington DC by now at Lobby Days. I’m going to make a plug here that you call your representative to encourage them to pass a bill that is before the floor in Congress. Basically it insures a continued relationship between the US and Uganda. Check out www.invisiblechildren.com for more info.
I had some pretty bad food tonight. It is called smoked meat. I kept wondering what kind of meat it was. It was soaked in a sauce that tasted like peanut butter and fish. I will avoid this dish in the future. In the evening we went to a club called Bamboo. It is run by a British expatriate so it draws in a pretty interesting crowd. I played a trivia game with my friend Kevin and a surgeon from Tanzania named Dr. Cliff. He has been working in southern Sudan and he is full of interesting stories. Lisa and the girls call every night. It’s the highlight of my day to talk with them. I haven’t been taking many pictures. Here is why. There is a strange tension for me about how to honor the dignity of the people while still capturing this experience to share. Right now, I’m holding off on taking many pictures. I think that once I’ve built more relationships with people I will feel better about getting shots with people I know.

#11 June 19th- Friday

Right now the power is off in the city. Everyone is sitting outside of their shops hanging out. It is pretty warm in the room where I am writing this, but I want to get caught up in writing so here goes. Our jogging crew grew by one this morning. Kate ran with Annie. Kevin, Bill, and I went a bit father into the country. There were even more bats out today. I don’t think I’ve mentioned the showers yet, or the toilets. The showers a cold and you can’t use much water. You soak, turn off the water, freeze, lather up, rinse, and freeze. It’s actually not that bad, but as Lisa knows, I’ve been know to take a long hot shower from time to time. The toilets are an adventure. Let me describe. First off, I’m not sure you can call it a toilet if there is no porcelain involved. They are holes in the ground. It actually takes a fair amount of balance and lower body strength to defecate in Uganda. Some of us have been finding this quite difficult.

This morning I had African coffee, an avocado, a banana, and chapatti for breakfast. I didn’t make it down to the internet café so I will do that soon. I have been thinking about getting a good Ugandan haircut, but the power is out so we shall see. Today we discussed the research we will be doing here. For my friends who know what WASC is, I just found out that I’ll be doing more WASC self study stuff this summer. Woot Woot!!! Actually some of it sounds good. The teachers here are interested in accessing certain elements of their school community. The have created a list of critical questions and I will be working with Yeko George to compile this information. Also, I will be a part of Amy’s research on the use of student centered activities in the classroom. Tonight I will meet my teaching partner. I’m a bit nervous, just because I don’t know what to expect, but I trust in Providence. I think we are all ready to move to this next part of the experience. There has been a lot of interesting orientation and I think it will all be useful, but it’s time to get going. On my way back for the IC office I stopped by one of the two mosques in town. I greeted the imam and we had an interesting conversation. He shared that the relationship between Muslims and Christians in this area is very positive. He asked me why I am not a Muslim and I told him that I follow Issa and that I believe he is God so I cannot be a Muslim. He argued that God can create, but cannot produce like humans or animals. It was an interesting argument, but we don’t agree on the source of God’s message to people (The Bible or the Quran) so we parted with a friendly Salaam Alekum as he expressed his desire to convert me and I told him that he may be the one to make to cross over. There is something about the Muslims I have known that evokes respect and compassion in me.
I hope you are doing well…no power, no hair cut 

#12 June 20th- Saturday

-School introductions
-Program meeting and research introduction
-Spend the day with team teachers

Last night we met with our partner teachers. I have been paired with a man named Mr. Okot David Oceng. He goes by David. I don’t know what happened to Mr. Yeko, but David is pretty cool. He is a father of two and one of his children is an 8 year old girl like Julia. To be honest, he seemed a little shy when we first met. In my teaching team there are 9 people. Four of us are from the USA and 5 are Ugandan teachers. My friend Michael is paired with a guy named James. He is a rapper and a math teacher. His most recent song is called “Division is bad”. Michael asked him if his next song will be “Multiplication is good?” We all had a good laugh. My roommate Matt is paired with an English teacher named John. Matt is one of those good natured people who really cares for others. John seems to have a puckish quality about him, but he is very nice. I’ve really looked to Matt for help knowing the right things to do because he has been a part of the program in the past. Annie is teamed up with William and Joyce. They look like they could be on the cover of Vogue. They are both very articulate and professional in there presentation. David seems to be a very bright teacher who cares for his students. He has not been at Gulu Secondary School long and I think this might explain why he seemed a little reserved.
I didn’t run this morning. I slept in until 8. It was good!!! Last night after the meeting we went out to the Bamboo club because one of the girls from group one was singing. Her name is Lisa Swetman and she has music on I-Tunes. I plan to download her stuff when I get home. She is very good. Taking a boda-boda home at night can be a little scary. The potholes come up pretty quick and I try to hope for the best. It’s an adventure.
In the morning I saw Opio Chris. I don’t think I have mentioned him. He is our server at Katrina’s restaurant. I spoke with him on the first night and he greets me warmly every time I come in. I really like him. He told me today that he would like to study to be a doctor. I showed him my finger and told him that perhaps he might be able to fix it someday. He does not have the money for school fees and I am thinking about ways to make that happen for him. He is 19 years old and he has a way to go before he finishes O level secondary school. I am looking for a way to pay his fees for school. I am really thankful for this relationship. I enjoyed some African coffee and headed down to Café Larem to post blogs and check Facebook. This café is run by a guy named Justin and his wife Ritta. It is the only place in town where you can get brownies and ice cream.
Our teaching team was schedule to meet together at Gulu SS at 11. In Uganda when you arrive on time it is called keeping time. Our teachers have been very good about keeping time. David was dressed up with a shirt and tie and cuff links. He rides in from Pabo in the morning. The trip takes about 20 minutes. The morning meeting was very good for us. We were able to discuss our expectation for the program with each other and with Amy. David showed me his lesson planning book. It is very orderly. We will be teaching about the geography of East Africa. This includes 4 countries, Uganda, Kenya, DR Congo, and Tanzania. We also discussed the teaching schedule here it is.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Arrive at 11:00
Teaching Times
1-F x2
(1:10-2:30)
1-G x2
(5:20-6:40) 1-E x2
(1:50-3:10)
1-D x2
(4:00-5:20) 1-F x1
(1:50-2:30)
1-G x1
(2:30-3:10)
1-B x1
(3:10-3:50) Early collaboration meeting
(9:00-10:00)
1-C x2
(1:10-2:30)
1-E x1
(4:00-4:40)
1-D x1
(5:20-6:00)
1-A
(6:00-6:40) 1-B x2
(1:10-2:30)
1-A x 2
(2:30-3:50)
1-C x1
(4:00-4:40)

This might seem confusing but basically it means we will be teaching 7 classes of students with 3 distinct lessons every week.

David and I discussed our expectations for the experience. We agreed that we will support each other in classroom management. We will assess student work together. We will wear ties only on Monday, all other days, no ties!!!! We will reflect on our strengths and weaknesses with open communication. We will use the Introduction, Presentation, Application, Conclusion model for our lessons.

After that we went out for lunch at Diana’s Garden for lunch. The food was pretty grubbin. David and I walked over to the book store and picked up a book about Geography. In Uganda, male friends often hold hands. I must confess that I’m a little relieved that David and I have not reached that level of friendship at this point. We walked through the market and then parted ways. I sensed that he was ready to get home and see his family. I understand that feeling 100%. Here I am back at the hotel.
One sort of funny story to share about the hotel is the story of the missing clothes. On the first day here some of our teachers turned in their clothes to be washed. The woman who washed them made a mistake. She thought we were throwing the clothes out, so she gave them to her friends. The situation was very difficult because some of the teachers, whose clothes were taken, were the very teachers whose luggage has been lost. The woman who gave away the clothing was in a panic. Lance noticed a guy walking down the street in his Chicago Cubs shirt. It was resolved by Amy, Katherine, and Katarina in a fair way. The clothes eventually made it back, but the undergarments were in the rubbish pile, so we decided to let them stay there.
I just returned from playing basketball and rugby with some local kids. Lance and I taught some boys how to pass the rugby ball and later we shot some hoops with the kids. I played with a tall kid named James, a girl named Lucky, and a boy named Geoffrey who attended Gulu SS. He was sagging his pants so I told him that he needed to pull them up or they may fall down when he is shooting the ball.
I’ve been challenged by the love and generosity I’ve seen in one of my team mates. The first thing people notice about him is his size. Think Jason Knowles with hair. However, there is a lot more to this muzungu giant that meets the eye. He consistently looks after the needs of other people before his own. For example, when one of our team mates lost her luggage he bought her a dress. He will often get a round of drinks. He bought water for the kids we played basketball with. He is really challenging me to wake up and be more sensitive to the needs of others. This is a lesson I want to take with me into the rest of life.

#13 June 21st- Sunday

If I had to choose a way to spend a Father’s Day away from my family, today would have been it. I just returned from St. Jude’s orphanage where I spent a couple hours loving and being loved by some very special kids. The day is not over, but I’m short on time and we are leaving for a family farm to hang out and meet a family who have survived conflict and are now thriving. We took a mutatu to the orphanage around 2pm. It was a bumpy ride to the outskirts of town. When we arrived the kids just mobbed us. I met the director Filda and gave her pictures of some of the children that Scott and Ning had given me to deliver. She was so thrilled and she pointed out each of the children that were in the pictures. The kids wanted to dance with us and for us, to play football (soccer), and to be held, but most of all, they wanted to take pictures with our cameras. I met a boy named Kenneth. I asked him what he wanted to be when he grows up. I will be the president, just like Obama. He certainly has the charisma for it. He took me by the hand and led me around the compound and we talked. I’m looking forward to sharing the video he took. I also held the most adorable baby I’ve ever seen. Really, she was perfectly beautiful. I’ll track down a picture to share. The last child I spent time with was Maria. She is 7 years old and she held me tight like my girls do. Today she needed a daddy and I needed a daughter. It made me so thankful for my girls and made be want to see them even more. This experience filled my tank. The whole day has been like that.

To take it from the start; I got up early for a run. On the way we met a boy named Jonanon. He is 18 and a very nice kid. We ran up near his home and he showed us where he has been living. Both his parents have died and his grandmother has asked him to leave so that she can rent the space. We jogged over to his new place where he is staying with his friend Francis. It was cool to go inside a home. It was a great run!
I showered up and a group of us went down to church. Some of our group attended mass at Gulu High School. They loved it and felt very welcomed. We went to KPC Watoto church. It is very much like Bayside or Bridgeway, but everyone…everyone really sings. Imagine a church where the whole church is the choir. I was encouraged by the message about unity in Christ and the need to carry his name well. After church I met Patrick who runs the Schools for Schools program in Gulu. He invited me to his small group this Wednesday. Having a spiritual connection with people here has brought me the most joy on this trip. I’ve been reading through a book called Jesus wants to save Christians. I have been thinking about where I really stand when it comes to representing God’s spirit here on Earth.
After church we came back to Katarina’s and discussed Pedagogy of the Oppressed. We were given quotes and we were asked to analyze them and create a frozen picture with our team that would explain the quote in an abstract way. It was a rich discussion about how education can often fail to empower students to see the big picture and think of ways to meet their own needs. The book is a pretty tough read, but it is so important to think about the systems we have set up and to ask critical questions about those systems.
In the evening after St. Jude’s we were hosted by Tom and Rose O’lalobo and their sons Obe and Apolo. Their sons grew up in the UK because the family had to flee under Amin’s reign of terror. The home they have created is gorgeous. I think this family will have a major part in shaping the future of Gulu. Lisa called and the girls completed a wonderful day with a very loud HAPPY FATHER’S DAY over the phone. Tomorrow, well actually today, is my first day teaching. I’ll write more later.
Here is an easier schedule to follow:
Monday: 11:00-6:40
Tuesday: 11:00-5:20
Wednesday: 11:00-3:50
Thursday: 9:00-6:40
Friday: 11:00-4:40 Rugby at 5:00!

#14 June 22nd- Monday

Today started with a good run with Mike and Kevin. I’ve been especially regular here in Uganda so I’ve been jogging the return trip at a break neck speed. Just keeping it real.

I showered up and headed down to Gulu SS. We attended the morning assembly and we were introduced to the students. The kids seem to enjoy the novelty of have muzungu on their campus. I hope we get past that. I’ve got 7 classes with 70 students each so I’m going to need to work hard to get to know the kids.
I’ve been enjoying a friendship with Justin and Ritta who own a coffee shop called Café Larem. It is a great establishment. The place is clean and the internet connection is sweet. It is the hangout for NGOs and church groups. I think it will be the place where I do my prep work in the morning this summer. I’ve brought some AP World stuff to work on and I’m hoping to come into next year really prepared. David and I met later at Gulu SS. He was about a half an hour late. It turns out that it take him 2 ½ hours to ride his bike to school each day, not to mention the ride home in the dark. He isn’t well paid, but he is committed to meeting his obligations. We worked on the lesson preparation and we had lunch together. Lunch was posho and beans. If you don’t fill your plate it is noticed, so I had my fill. I was wondering what the kids would think of me and how I will fit into their experience. David was great about including me in the lesson. Our topic is the geography of East Africa. The lesson was a pretty simple straightforward introduction, but it took a while to get started. The students seemed distracted by me at first, but as we got into the lesson they were very responsive. The information is very basic, but that is good, because I really don't know much about East African geography. It's been fun learned. I shared the concept of a KWL with David and he really enjoyed it. Students seemed more concerned about drawing a chart with straight lines than they were about the content within the lines. I asked the students what they knew about East Africa and one student volunteered that "Black People live here" :) It's a start. I asked the students who the most famous East African in the world is. They love Obama around here so that was a big hit.
At night we (the IC teachers) sat around and played name that tune. It was fun to get some r and r together and let out a few gut laughs.
In the morning there is a kid named Jonanon who has been running with me. We are hatching a plan to start a small business. My goal is to give him a hook and not a fish. He is doing research today to see what kind of market exists among the Acholi for family photos. We have a good idea, but I'm being very careful not to give him too many details or make any promises. At this point I am planning to try to start the business while I am here and to sell my digital camera to him once he has raised enough profit to buy it. If we can create a partnership with a local taylor, we may be able to use her fabric as the backdrop.
Funny story. Last night I was attacked by a flying ant that nested in my hair and then tried to find a home in the back of my throat. It didn't work out so well for him.

#15 June 23rd- Tuesday

Observation at schools

Posho and Beans…..
Today began with another good run. I’ve been joined by Jananen again. However, today he tried to run in sandals, so we didn’t go as far, but we had a good talk. I’ve really enjoyed having an open morning to shower, read, and catch up with emails. I don’t need to be at the school until 11:30.
Classes went very well today. David introduced me to the class in this way. He said, “Students, today you will notice that you have two teachers, a black one and a white one, but we both bleed the same red blood.” It feels good to hear that he sees us on the same level. I don’t want to come into his class with an attitude that I am the expert and he is the novice. We have decided to share the responsibilities of teaching. He may give the introduction and then I will follow with the presentation of information. He will then engage the students in a KWL application, and I will give the conclusion. Then we will alternate for the next class. We are teaching about the geography of East Africa. I have been asking the students why they think it is important to study about East Africa. Most of them give the answer that they must know the material for the exams. If they do not pass the mid-term and final, they may not advance to the next level. I mentioned that one reason to study this topic is the in the future Gulu and East Africa may be world leading countries. They were intrigued by this. I mentioned that they are the future of this country and that many people in the world are excited to see how they will shape the future. In Uganda the students do not leave the classroom. The teacher will move from class to class. It makes sense because in would be difficult to move 70 students 10 times each day. At lunch we eat posho and beans. Posho is like unsalted playdough. We eat with our fingers. Most of the teachers are not fond of the food, but it is filling. Some of the teachers sat under the mango tree with me to discuss politics and life in the US.
After school, I was met by a student named Goffrey. I had met him before playing basketball. He has walked with me for the past two days. He loves to share riddles. For example; what comes twice a week, but only once a year. I was able to share a few with him. What is black and white and read all over? I got him on that one. Today he shared that he is living alone. His father died in a car accident and his mother was killed by the LRA. He is a bright student who hopes to become a doctor like his father was. He asked me if I was a Christian. I said yes. He asked if I could answer some questions for him. He seems to be a deep thinker even at 15. He asked me how I know the Bible is true. I gave three reasons. 1. Despite being written on three separate continents by many authors; it has continuity and tells a complete story. This story and the truths revealed in it resonate in my heart as true. No one needs to tell me that injustice is wrong. I see it and know it in my heart. 2. There is evidence to show that the historical claims of the Bible are true. 3. I have personally experienced the power of the Bible in my life. The truth of the Bible has given me a future and a hope.

Next question:
What is repentance?
Changing the way you think and act. When you act and think in a way that is inconsistent with God’s way, you can change.

Next question:
Do you think there will ever be peace in the world?
Yes, I believe that someday, there will be peace in the whole world, but now we only have a taste of how it could be when we live the way God intended us to live with each other.

My question:
Do you attend the Bible club?
No.
Why not?
They only talk and do not allow answers from students even when they are wrong.
What are they wrong about?
One day, they said that black people killed Jesus and I know that is not true.
How do you know that is not true?
I know
Do you have a Bible?
I do not have but I know
You are correct. Europeans killed Jesus, and Jews (Asians) killed Jesus, but really…..God killed Jesus so that we can know God will understand our suffering and that he can overcome it.
Why is black bad in the Bible and white good?
There is a contrast between darkness and light, but that is not the same as black and white and it does not mean race. One of the first Christians was a black Ethiopian official. One of the first church leaders was black. God makes no distinction based on color.

What a crazy conversation. I really want to see Goffrey achieve his dreams. There is a future and a hope for this boy.

#16 June 24th- Wednesday

Observation at schools


I spent a long time at the Internet Café today. In the morning I finished the book of Leviticus. I’ve never enjoyed reading the book so much as I have this time. There is a constant refrain of social justice for the poor and for the immigrant. It’s so good to be able to chat with friends back home.
The life of teachers at Gulu SS has been affected by the school elections. The students are contesting for various leadership positions in the school. Matt and his partner teacher Akali have been working hard to make it a success. David and I planned the lesson for the day, but all of the classes were cancelled so that student could give open air speeches. There were about 40 speeches, but the PA system did not arrive until the last five. It was painfully boring. I’ve learned that boredom is a huge part of teacher’s lives here. We could not hear any of the speeches, but we were expected to attend. The kids here love rap and the boys love to sag their pants. It is as ridiculous here as it is at home.
In the evening I met up with Patrick to attend his Watoto cell group. We met with Dennis (his home), Mike, Abraham, and Evalin. We had a great time discussing I Corinthians chapter 12. We talked about unity in the body of Christ and how God wants us to use our gifts without discrimination or jealousy. I feel so at home with these new friends. We had a wonderful time sharing stories.

#17 June 25th- Thursday

Observation at schools

I slept in and didn’t run. When I got up, my friends told me that a guy named Justin was looking for me. The other day he had approached me for a bit of money to feed his sister, who he said was in the hospital. I gave him 500 US, but told him to keep it quiet. This time he came with a letter. I asked him to tell me what was on his mind. He said his sister had died. I expressed my condolences and waited. He asked for help burying his sister. I told him that I would be willing to help him dig, but I would not give any money. I am almost positive he was lying. So I told him that he should rely on his community. It is not right to come and beg and that he is not welcome to come again for that purpose. I feel harsh, but a hand out is not what he needs, even if his sister had died.
We met early at the school and we also stayed late. Our group met to discuss the research and we stepped outside to ask a few questions of the students. One of the students ran for the post of dining prefect because his meal card was stolen and he wants to find a solution to that issue. They asked me if I have come to give them the solutions to their problems. I pointed back to them to say that any solution that doesn’t come from them will not succeed. One student asked if he could also participate in our research to provide a student’s perspective.
All day long we waited for classes; until we were asked to hand deliver a letter to a community member. It was a very long walk to his house on a very dusty road. There has not been rain since we first came and the land really needs the rain. David and I are really getting to know each other well. We are quickly becoming more comfortable with each other. In the staff room, we have been discussing the topic of polygamy. It is still a common practice here. The other teachers asked if I am faithful to my wife. I am glad to say yes, but they all seem surprised by that response.
So, in class I suffered from a miscommunication that left the kids falling out of there seats laughing. We are teaching about the physical features of East Africa. We are helping the students remember the names of the lakes with mnemonic devices. We’ve come up with LERCH for the regions (Lake, Eastern Plateau, Rift Valley, Coastal Plains, and Highlands) So, as I was introducing the lakes in the Eastern rift valley I said the name of the lake Manyara. This is where the problem occurred. If the access is not spoken correctly the word sounds like “vagina” in Acholi. David walked up to me and explained to mistake and we all had a good laugh. The teachers thought it was pretty funny.
Towards the end of the day, class sizes start to go down. We had a class with only 18 and David was thinking we might call it off, but 16 of the 18 were girls. I really liked this class. David and I are starting to hit a groove in teaching. He is open to ideas and he is even projecting his voice in class. Like most teachers from the US I am considered loud in the classroom, but their voices are really at such a whisper that it is a miracle kids hear anything. We are starting to strike a balance.
So the highlight of my day was the conversation I had with Goffrey. He wanted to give me an Acholi name. He decided on the name Omara. It sounds like a good Irish name, but it means, someone who loves others. I hope I can live up to this name.
Blessings of Peace and Hope,
Omara Jon

#18 June 26th- Friday

Observation at schools

The day started late for me. I needed to get some rest. We have, as teachers, all become bonded as a team. We’ve had some deep conversations and some fun ones. The teams from Pabo and Antang came back. It’s so good to see them. Lance and Justine, who live in San Francisco, (Lance owns the Blue Light) and Stephanie (Texas) and Tammy (Minnesota) are all teaching at Pabo. It’s pretty remote, so they are finding they are a real novelty to the kids. They shared that there are giant stinging cockroaches in the latrines. Ouch!!! Today, I just couldn’t eat Posho and Beans. My appetite is starting to dwindle.
I’m so glad its Friday!!! The school announced the winners of the contests for prefect ships. There is a ton of excitement in the air.
In Uganda, it is now against the law to cane students. However, they have other options for discipline. One option is manual labor. Today we found a student taking a pickax to a giant termite mound. It took him about an hour to break it down. I took a few swings with him just for fun. We had 3 classes today. I feel like David and I are hitting a cool groove. He has been projecting his voice and he is starting to involve students so much more in the lesson. Today he actually brought students up to the front of class and used them as visual aids. He invited me over to his house next Wednesday. I’m looking forward to the chance to meet his family.
After school we gathered together and played some basketball and rugby. There weren’t too many kids out, but everywhere I go, people want to toss the ball around. The highlight of today was over at the IC house. Bryn and Elena arrived!!! Well, they were delayed by an hour and a half, but when they got there it lifted my spirits so much. Both of them are like family to me. There are 15 girls and 5 boys on there trip. These are all students whose schools won the Schools for Schools competition. In a way, I’m really glad that we are having different experiences in Uganda. I think they are going to love this trip, they have an amazing itinerary. We sat and talked for about 2 hours, on and off with other things going on. Our teaching group will go on the Rhino trek this weekend so I’ll see Bryn and Elena on Sunday when we can set up a phone call with their parents.
I’ve decided not to shave until I get back. Well, I’ve got to shave my neck hair, but aside from that, I’ve got 4 more weeks to grow the nastiest beard of all time. But the day I get back, it’s coming off. Lisa hates it when I don’t shave. It’s too itchy.

#19 and 20 June 27th and 28th- Saturday andSunday

-Rhino trip returns

This weekend we took a trip out to a Rhino sanctuary. I’m at the point in the trip where the novelty of it all is starting to wear off. We took a very long drive south to get to the inn. Every time we cross the Nile, I’m tempted to take a picture, but we’ve been told that the government troops will seize our cameras if we do. During the conflict, the bridge over the Nile was the most defensible point between the North and South. With the bridge defended, there was a great deal of apathy in the south in regards to what was going on in the north. On the way up to the bridge there is a family of baboons that likes to hang out. I got a few shots of them.
After a 3 ½ hour trip we arrived at the inn and had to wait another hour for food. I had set my expectations too high and I was disappointed. I’ve been trying to take a deep breath and relax with it. This morning when I was running a metaphor came to mind. I was running on the track and for some reason I was expecting a smooth surface. I rolled my ankle a bit. “If you expect a smooth road, you will be upset by a bumpy road.” I’m resetting my expectations.
The other thing I’ve been thinking about is that in some ways, you almost need to operate in a sort of “auto-pilot / go with the flow” kind of way. I want to be more intentional about my time in Africa. I had less than a month left and I want to make it count. This week we have testing at Gulu SS, so I will have some free time to do some things I’ve wanted to do. On Wednesday I will visit David’s home in Pabo. It is a long bike ride, but about a 40 minute boda ride. I’m looking forward to meeting him family and hanging out. We were going to hang out on Friday night, but I couldn’t find him at the bar we were meant to meet up at and there was this overly interested girl at the bar that I had to get away from. On Thursday, I’m going to hang out with Elena and Bryn when they follow their Visible Child mentors. These mentors are teachers who support all IC Visible Child scholarship recipients. On Friday and Saturday we have a teaching conference. It’s going to be a good week.
The Rhino’s were cool. They are huge and we got about 5 feet away from them. The guides told us that it they charge we should find a tree or a termite mound to climb. Honestly, I think the safari will be more interesting, but it was nice to relax and the inn. I went to be early and got up early. I’ve just finished the book of Numbers. I’ve never enjoyed it so much as this time through. The themes of social justice keep jumping out to me. There is such a contrast between the “Egyptian nation state / oppression” and God’s intention for community.
When we returned to the hotel we discovered that Big John’s computer had been stolen. Please pray for its return. He is a good guys and this is so unjust. He has a ton of school work save on it. We are all pretty irritated that the hotel is not secure. I guess I’m not expecting a bumpy road. We are going to find it though. It is only a matter of time before it shows up in a used computer shop. We are going to find it. Something like this really affects the way you experience a trip.
Normally, when I walk through the market it is easy for me to smile and greet people. This Sunday it was more difficult. On top of that, I was wearing shorts. Some women may have had the experience of a guy, not looking at their eyes while in conversation. Here in Gulu, legs are the object of scandal and lust. If a woman were to wear shorts, it would be a big deal. When guys are working out, it’s generally ok, but yesterday I wore short down to the market on a Sunday. Everyone would look at my hairy white legs before looking at my face. It was really awkward. That is the last time I’ll do that. I like to be able to just wave and smile. I stick out enough without showing off my sexy legs.
In the evening, I went over to the IC house to see Bryn and Elena. They had a fun day at Fort Patico hiking and playing. This weekend they had a fun time checking out the Gulu market. Elena is thinking about her role her. The kids are here mainly to observe. They are used to serving so this is a strange role for them to take. They want to serve and I think they will make a bigger difference than they know. The difficulty is that any good that is not sustainable can cause more harm than good. For example, a handout may solve an immediate issue, but create a lasting problem of dependence. Today I will see Goffrey. I hope that he has used the camera as a hook and not a fish, but I’m prepared for a bump in the road.

# 21 June 29th- Monday

-Team Teaching
-Debrief

I’m still waiting to find out if I’ve given Geoffrey (got the spelling right now), a fish or a hook. He told me that he was able to make some money taking pictures at the school celebration this weekend. He was at school today, so that means that somehow his school fees were paid. He told me that he sold the pictures for 1500 US (Ugandan Shillings) and that means he made 500 US per picture. I haven’t really seen any evidence that this is true, but I’m hoping for the best. I really like this kid and I would love to see him reach his potential.
Today was very relaxing. The testing has begun at Gulu SS. I didn’t need to come until noon, so I caught up with some messages I’ve been meaning to write. David and I proctored two tests. The teachers leave the classrooms while kids are testing. There is plenty of room for cheating and I’m sure it goes on, but the teachers don’t seem inclined to stop it. I had a nice time talking with teachers under the mango tree. They wanted to know what crops I would grow if I lived here. I think I would grow strawberries. The people here love sweet things and I think the climate would be perfect. I met a great teacher names Ngeko Walter. His name means enmity. He likes my Acholi name. We joked that some marriages are just that, a combination of love and enmity.
Under the mango tree we gather with teachers to kill time and talk. I shared my story about the girl at the bar and an older teacher called me a coward for not pursuing the girl. It got very quite for a minute and I replied that I am a man of integrity and when I make a promise, I keep it. Then everyone started to speak up saying things like, "that woman would have led you like a lamb to the slaughter." Even the teacher who called me a coward said, "you have answered well." The men here are very curious to know if I cheat on my wife. It's not uncommon to have a second wife or to be unfaithful. However, I feel that my commitment to Lisa is respected and not mocked...to much. They still think I should add an Acholi wife, but I've explained that I don't need another...I just want to get back and have my own.
Tomorrow I’m going to have a long day grading. We have almost 500 tests to grade. Tonight we had smoked fish, smoked meat, and smoked chicken smothered in fish-chicken-beef sauce. I ate rice. Unfortunately there were small rocks in my rice. Food has lost its appeal for me. Right now, I’m dodging flying ants as I type this. It may be time for bed. I’d rather rest than rant. (I just knocked a flying ant out of the air as it was heading into my face....skills!) Good night all.

#22 June 30th- Tuesday

-Team Teaching

Imagine millions of wings covering the ground for miles. It was a flying ant massacre. After the first rain of the wet season the ants swarm. People run out and gather them for food lime manna from heaven. I ran down the long path today and met Jananan on the way. He was riding his bike so we kept up a good clip. I had to hustle because we had an early start at the school for testing. When I arrived at Gulu SS the students were waiting for the examination, but the teachers had not yet arrived. Because we were proctoring the first exams, we were responsible to check to see if students had paid there school fees before they might sit for the exams. It was a tragic sight. About 20% of the students were cleared to sit for the exam. The rest of the students were left on the outside looking in. This puts teachers in a tough spot. Some teachers let all the students in to test, reasoning that they could be sorted out later. Others told the students to go home. David and I decided to let them in with the knowledge that the head teacher might come by and send them all out. If a student does not sit for testing, they may need to repeat the course. As it turned out, Geoffrey was in the group of students who had not paid. He told me that he had paid for his school fees with the money he made from the pictures on Saturday. I wasn’t sure how to deal with that. When I saw him later in the day I asked if he could show me an example of one of the pictures he took. He said that he would.
Later in the morning I sat with the teachers in my Teacher Exchange group to discuss and upcoming conference that we will present at. Our question to address is that of how to make an impact on students given limited contact time. The Ugandan teachers all feel that there is sufficient time to cover their curriculum, but not enough to cover other responsibilities. Since there are no guidance counselors at the school, this task falls on teachers. Most students do not take advantage of this because they don’t know how. It’s tough for the teachers as well because it is an expectation that they do this, but there is little support to make it happen. I was impressed by the solutions that Ugandan teachers developed to address this. Most teachers do not know the names of their students. We discussed ways to learn those names and suggested advantages of calling students by name. We talked about even adding a student name tag to the school uniform. Opoki James suggested creating an “advisory” time with students to meet with a certain group of students on a regular basis. We also discussed the idea of adding a “trust/ relationship building lessons into the regular class time. I love that these ideas are coming from our teachers. They want to excel and it’s so good to see them engage in the conversation. The conference will be held this weekend on Friday and Saturday.
In the afternoon I came back to the hotel and took a nap. I’ve been feeling a bit under the weather. My friends woke me up to say that Geoffrey was waiting outside for me. He brought a picture that he said was taken on Saturday. I was pretty sure it was not taken on Friday. Geoffrey seemed like he was hiding something. I asked him if he was being truthful. At first he said he was, but after time he confessed that he was not being honest. He said that he had taken the pictures, but that when he went to develop them the computer somehow deleted them. It sounds like a more likely story. He looked like he was going to cry as he told me about the situation. He asked me to forgive him. I did and I think that I see now that he is going to need a lot more support to make this happen. He is such a bright kid and I really want to see him make it. Please pray for this one, if you do that.
Later in the afternoon we learned that Ryan (one of our T/ Ex teachers) had written a description of each of us in his blog. It was one of the coolest bonding moments we have had as a group. He is hilarious and encouraging beyond belief. We all laughed hard and decided to go out for dinner together. We shared stories and laughed like I haven’t laughed in a long time. He went out to a hotel called Boma for food. We ordered the garlic steak with chips. It was so good!!! Matt (my roommate) and I had a deep conversation about our spiritual journeys. I think it would be fair to say he is a “seeker”. I have so much respect for him as a person and I think we are a perfect fit as roommates. He came on this trip last year, so he has been a great help to the rest of us.
When it was time to come home we took a wrong turn in the dark. Thankfully there was a large group of us. We ended up walking through a garbage dump in the pitch black dark laughing until our sides ached. Wendy stepped in some mystery mush and was getting queasy on the way home. The people we passed thought it was pretty funny seeing a parade of muzungu cruising through their neighborhood late at night. I felt bad for the kids who were taking a bath as we walked by.
Later in the night group 3 (the next T/ Ex) teachers came in. We met them at Kope Café and some went out for a drink. I went back to the hotel to get some rest because I knew that Wednesday was going to be a busy one.

#23 July 1st- Wednesday

Ask me about my chicken....

What an adventure I had today!!! In the morning I found an excellent boda-boda driver. His name is James and his boda-boda is pretty new. He drove well and offered a fair rate. We agreed on a fair of 10,000 which is good. The other driver offered to do it for 20,000. It was a long drive out to Pabo. My partner teacher, David, lives out in Pabo and makes a 2 ½ hour bike ride to school each day. He invited me to spend the day with him to meet his family and see his farm. The ride out was breathtaking. The long road is made of red clay and dirt. On either side there are rolling hills and valleys covered with trees. In the distance you can see larger hills (almost mountains). The further away we drove from Gulu the more interested the people seemed by my presence. I put in my I-pod and enjoyed the ride.
When we arrived David seemed so happy to see me. He wanted to introduce me to all of his friends and family. I spoke with James, the boda-boda driver and asked him if he could keep time (be on time). He said he could so I agree to pay him 20,000 for the return trip if he came back at 2:00 to pick me up. He arrived 15 minutes early. He is now my favorite driver and I plan to ride with him out to St. Jude’s orphanage on Sunday. He is “born again” and he has 2 daughters ages 8 and 4. I really like him.
David took me to him house. On his wall he was a bunch of pictures of the pope, Ugandan martyrs, Arsenal soccer players, David and his wife Vicky, and the picture I gave him of our family. The house is simple, but clean. David’s son is named Omara Daniel and he is 3 years old. He was wearing a Blues Clues shirt. On a side note, it is interesting to see all the western style clothing here. Used clothes flood into the market and actually have a negative affect on the prices of traditional clothing and on the tailors.
David and I hopped on a boda boda together to go and see his father’s farm. When there are three people on the ride it is a rough experience, especially for the tailbone of the person in the back (me). We cruised through the displacement camps. Many people are deserting this place to return to their family farms. I saw real signs of poverty on the way. It was about a 30 minute trip out to the farm. When we arrived I was greeted by David’s mother. She offered me a live chicken as a gift. I asked David what I should do. He said I should accept it and either sell it or eat it. I thanked her and watched her chase the chicken around the farm. She looked like she was having fun. While she was doing that, David and I took a walk around his father’s farm. He showed me the maize, beans, rice, tobacco, millet, sugar cane, sunflowers, potatoes, g-nuts (like peanuts), and some other vegetables that I’ve never heard of. He wanted to show me his plot so we started what I thought might be a short walk. We walked for at least 2 miles into the middle of nowhere and finally found it. On the way I stepped into a nest of giant black ants. When they bite they don’t let go, so I jumped up in the air shaking them off. I’ve never seen David laugh so hard. He doubled over as I shook my leg and jumped around. It was a good bonding experience for us and I avoided getting bitten. On the way we met one of David’s brothers who was working in the fields. They wanted to see me till the ground, so I gave it a go. Apparently I was doing it wrong and they thought it was pretty funny. When he came back to meet David’s mother, she had the chicken tied up for me.
We carried it upside down and walked up to the main rode to get a ride back to David’s house and meet to Mose. The Mose is an honorific title for David’s father. He is a well respected man in his community and anyone who lives to be 60 around here is worthy of respect. I was wondering what I would do with this chicken. I was thinking of naming it Crispy because that is my favorite type of chicken out here. When we arrived at David’s home, his wife Vicky had a meal prepared for us. In this culture, the women do so much. I came across a student drawing of an African woman with a basket on her head. Inside the basket there was an outline of the continent of Africa. What powerful symbolism! Here Vicky got on her knees to greet me and serve me. It was a bit awkward. David has been thinking of getting a second wife. I asked him what qualities a man looks for in a wife. He said, “she must be able to bear children, greet visitors, work in the fields, cook well, and take care of the children.” It is such a practical view, but I’m so thankful for the type of marriage I have. I think all of those things may be good, but it is the friendship I have with Lisa that I value most in our relationship.
We had a nice meal of posho (maize and millet), rice, beef, spinach, and bananas. After the meal, the Mose arrived. He had spent the morning trying to resolve a land dispute with people in the community. This will be a greater problem as time goes on and people try to return to their land. The Mose is a very warm man who had a picture of Obama on his belt buckle. I took some nice family photos for them.
Later, David and I walked down to the nursery school to pick up his daughter Apwoyo Chan Winney. She is a cute little girl, but when she saw me she started to cry and ran away. The white skin scares some kids. Later I gave her and her brother a mango and they both warmed up to me. When it was time to leave, David told me that he wanted to ride into Gulu with me. I wasn’t expecting to take him back and I felt bad for James (the driver) So we hooked the chicken onto the handlebars and crammed onto the bike. I’ve got to be honest, the ride home was terrible. It hurt and it was tough to make it up hills or over bumped which only prolonged my agony. When we finally arrived in Gulu we dropped David off and continued home. I leaned up to James and told him that I would pay what we agreed on, but I felt bad about the extra passenger. I asked him if he would consider taking the chicken as additional compensation. He loved that idea so I felt that we were square. We took a picture with the chicken and that was that.
I went down to Café Larem and ordered a scope of ice cream. It’s the best ever!!! Home made with cream….yum. I was able to chat with Lisa on Facebook. I miss her so much, but thank God for the Internet. I’m terrible about writing letter, but this makes it so much easier to stay in touch. I really couldn’t imagine this trip without it.
At Larem there are so many people from the states that roll through. It’s fun to hear stories about what is going on. I love Wednesday’s because it is the day of the Watoto cell group. Patrick was away in Kampala, but the group still met. These folks have become fast friends and it is so good to have a common bond. We talked about miracles and faith. There is a passage in either 1st or 2nd Samuel about a woman who makes a room for Elisha and is given a son as a blessing. Her son dies and she calmly seeks out Elisha for help. We talked about what God might want to accomplish in our lives. The things asked for are so profound. Evelin wants God to provide school fees for her kids. Helena wants a home, but she is quick to say she wants to have it for the right motives. Dennis would love to have a wife and Mike wants to see his kids follow Jesus. I love this group. I’m challenged by the raw reality of their faith. After meeting and praying I went over to the IC house to see Bryn and Elena.
It’s been a few days since I last saw them, so it was good to catch up. We all find it hard to put words to our experience. They have seen all 11 schools that IC works with. They are impressed by the wisdom of the IC approach. It is one of the few NGOs that has immediate impact that is implemented in a sustainable way. I’m so impressed by the work that is being done here. The will share some great stories about the kids there have met. Bryn spend the day with the equivalent of the yearbook editor. Today they are going out to spend the day with a mentor. When IC gives a scholarship, they also give the student a guidance counselor to follow up with them and help them finish their education. It’s all about finishing well. Elena seems so much more at peace with her role here. They are here to learn and they really are learning so much. Bryn remarked that looking at IC from the states; you would have no idea what a rock solid organization it is here on the ground. Most of the IC staff here is Ugandan and most of the programs are designed to eventually be completely run by Ugandans. I think that this experience is going to have such an impact on these two. I know that both of them will live a life of service in some way and it is so good to see them thoughtfully take in this approach. When they came I mentioned that there isn’t really any good thing you can do here without some negative side effect. I think they now see examples of what that means. It certainly doesn’t mean that you should do no good thing. It just means that impulsive acts of kindness can sometimes backfire. It’s an important lesson for me to hold onto. If you’ve made it to the end of this post, pat yourself on the back. Sorry it was so long, but hopefully there is something worthwhile in there for you. Blessings!!!!!

#24 July 2nd- Thursday

-Team Teaching
I didn’t have any school responsibilities today, so I relaxed and cleaned up. The room I share with Matt is starting develop guy funk, Africa style. I took a long nap in the afternoon and didn’t really accomplish much today. Sorry guys

#25 July 3rd- Friday

-Conference
-Dinner at IC
Today was the start of the 3rd annual teaching conference. David was sick and could not attend. The conference was centered on the topics of teacher empowerment and student empowerment. We registered at around 9 am and waiting for our teaching partners to arrive. Each set of international teachers sat with their Ugandan counterparts. We did a few fun mixers. One of them was a name game. In Uganda the meaning of names is so important. Names tell the history of what events were taking place when the child was born. There a section of town that has a name which literally means, “the place where the man wet his pants.” I met a woman who had the Christian name of Grace. She shared that her mother chose that name because it was the English name that her grandmother had the easiest time pronouncing.
Each teaching team (Ugandan school) made a short presentation about a challenge facing Ugandan teacher along with 2 short term and 2 long term solutions. I was impressed by the wisdom and practical knowledge of the teachers in the room. One of the biggest issues that teachers face is the lack of compensation. The often work multiple jobs just to survive. They are often bound to the school campus for long blocks of time in which there is little to do. One teacher noted that the students pay and outside individual 500 US to cut their hair once every 2 weeks. This could be a way to generate some income. IC is working on a community based savings and loans plan that may be helpful here as well.
The conference was held in a place called the Gusco. It is sort of like a teaching and rehabilitation compound for kids. After the conference I met up with Bryn and Elena. We walked over to Café Larem for chocolate ice cream. They loved it. In some ways, I’m envious of their experience. The have taken on the role of learners so well. They are going to have so much to share about the various IC initiatives in Gulu. We walked over to the Hotel Elephant Graceland to meet up with the Bavu Buka boys (and girls). I had a great talk with Bryan the leader of the group and Bryn and Elena had some great conversation with the kids. When we got to the IC house, we played volleyball with some of the students that were there. After a while I came home to eat. I’m having a hard time keeping a good attitude about the lack of food here (for myself). I realize that is really lame and I’m going to get over it. I’m just telling the truth about it.

#26 July 4th and 5th - Saturday and Sunday

-Breakfast at IC
-Conference
-4th of July Teacher Picnic and Party
The second part of the teaching conference was centered on student empowerment. As teachers, we observed portions of 4 student workshops.
1. Teaching drama and physicalization of emotions
2. Coaching basketball skills to young women
3. Teaching art as a means of expressing connection to a particular place
4. Hip-Hop dance skills
5. Hip-Hop rap to express thoughts in Luo (the Acholi language) and English

I love to watch people teach well, especially when it is peer to peer teaching. The rap group was so good about modeling the skills and encouraging kids to succeed. When our Gulu SS team came together we agreed that we will incorporate illustrating skills and poetic verse into lessons this week. Overall the conference was encouraging for our teachers. I hope I don’t have malaria, I’ve been pretty tired. I came back to the hotel to rest.
I went over to the IC house later to say goodbye to Bryn and Elena. They had to leave early Sunday morning. They were planning an evening party at the IC house. I’m happy for them that home isn’t far away. They have a very fun trip planned for the next 5 days. We left with a big hug and encouraging words. They are already thinking of ways to encourage and inspire the kids back home. Who knows, maybe another of our students will be able to return next year.
In the evening IC planned a big 4th of July celebration for our teachers and the IC staff at the Acholi Inn. It was a fun time of feasting, dancing, and jumping in the pool. I had a great time learning the Acholi dances. The people here are a lot of fun. I came home around mid-night but most of our group went out for a couple more parties. It was a pretty crazy night, but everyone made it home safely.
In the morning I went to the Watoto church. I love this place!!! It’s the event I look most forward to each week. This morning I sat next to a woman (Lucy) with two children, an infant and a little girl who looked to be about 5 (Irene). Irine crawled up into my lap and fell asleep on my chest during the service. It’s like God knew just how much I’m missing my girls and chose to give me a cool reminder of what I’m missing. After the service, Bryan from Bavu Buka came over to greet me. He came a bit late and missed the singing so he asked if we could stay for that part of the next service. That wasn’t a tough sell. I love the singing here. One of the songs was in Lugandan so he felt right at home with it. In fact, he recognized one of the band members as the son of his late pastor. Bryan and I parted company and agreed to meet up for lunch.
I started reading a book called The Shack. It’s pretty intense at the beginning, especially considering the main character’s connection to his family. I haven’t finished the book and in my mind the jury is still out on whether or not I like it. It certainly is thought provoking. After a meeting at the IC house with all three groups I went out to lunch with Bryan and Jared (the hip hope dance teacher). He (Bryan) has a dream of opening a studio / half-way house in Kampala. We ate some goat meat and said our goodbyes. I hope that we are able to keep in touch.
I need to work on preparing lessons for Advanced Geo and AP World for next year so that I’m not overly stressed when I return. Otherwise, life is good. I’m at the point where the novelty of being here has worn off and I’m starting the really feel the challenge of living away from Lisa and the girls for so long.

#27 July 5th- Sunday

-Team Teaching

#28 July 6th- Monday

-Team Teaching
Three weeks left! Monday’s can be rough. At Gulu SS, it seemed to me that there were many teachers missing. One of them was David. I came a bit early hoping to get and head start on grading. I couldn’t find the exams so I worked on planning for my classes for next year. David cell was disconnected so I decided to go ahead and teach one of his classes for him. The difficulty with this is that some Ugandan teachers start to see us as an international substitute teacher service. I don’t think David sees me that way. The class went well, but the best scenario is that we teach together. In Uganda, the students will have the same social science teacher throughout high school. Why? That way they will know if the teacher has failed to teach them. David never showed, so I went home a bit early. Michael asked if I wanted to play basketball with him. We walked down to the courts. It is about a mile from where we live, but everyone walks in this town. A few use bicycles, some use motorcycles (boda-bodas), and fewer still use cars. I haven’t seen many accidents, although my roommate Matt said he saw a boda driver go over his handle bars. He was too drunk to drive, so some people nearby convinced him not to drive it. I’ve wondered from time to time how sober my drivers have been.
Down at the courts we shot around for a little. I’m amazed that these kids make baskets. They have no arc in their shots at all. Michael is a pretty good player, but it’s not really my strength. I decided to go over to play soccer with some of the local guys. These guys are talented beyond belief. They can dribble all over the place. The ball control is amazing. We split up to shirts and skins. Of course, I was on the skins team. My hairy white belly is quite a spectacle around here. I love to get into the mix. Really, that’s the only thing I had going for me. I wouldn’t stop running and chasing them down, so I think it might have opened up some opportunities for me team. I had two clear shots at the goal and missed them both. It was pretty embarrassing. At one point during the game my feet slipped from under me and I fell, face first, on the red clay dirt. When I jumped up someone pointed to my chest. They all wanted to make sure I was ok. One guy smiled at me and joked, “Hey Jon, you’re not a muzungu anymore.” Michael was playing in a pretty intense pickup game. The guys are pretty tall and talented. They like the full court passed and the only offence is run and gun so it was fun to watch.
I noticed the sun setting as a backdrop behind a beautiful tree. It looked like a postcard. I pointed it out to the guy next to me. I said, “Look at that!” He looked back at me and said, “We call it the sun.” It’s funny to me that something so beautiful is seen as common place. I wonder how many things we live with would seem as wonderful to him as that sunset seemed to me.
Dinner was actually really good tonight. We had rice and cabbage with spicy, SPICY, chicken. It was pretty awesome, but ridiculously hot. At the hotel, Phil (a professor from Boise state) came over with some of the group three folk to watch the movie Dodgeball. It was nice to have a good laugh.

#29 July 7th- Tuesday

-Team Teaching
Coming to school with a rugby ball is a great way to make people smile. There were even some mothers with children on their backs who wanted to toss it back and forth. It’s common to see women with children wrapped up in a blanket, hanging on their backs (piggy back). It’s also common to see very young girls with babies on their backs as well.
Before going to school, I checked my school email. I was happy to hear from some of my students that they had received passing scores on the AP World Exam. I’m looking forward to knowing how we did this year.
When I arrived at the school, David was their doing some grading. He said that malaria has been bothering him. That is not uncommon. The mosquitoes aren’t too bad where we are staying, but in the more rural parts of Gulu, it is a real problem. Although, one of my team got a bite on a place you wouldn’t typically spray with bug repellent. We all had a good laugh with her when she came out of the toilet.
David and I graded papers and then prepared for class. Geography in Uganda is focused on the physical features of regions. At times is feels more like a Geology class. Today we discussed the formation of the Rift Valley and the two theories that are most accepted. I feel that David is making strides as a teacher. We are working to improve lessons from the typical “Chalk and Talk” to more student centered learning. I’ve been thinking a lot about my classes back home. One of the greatest compliments a teacher can receive here is to say they are innovative. In a place where you must do a lot with little; innovation is the X-factor.
I have two teachers who want to work with me to teach the students rugby skills. We will have our first practice on Monday at 9:00. I’m hoping to teach enough of the game and skills that they will be able to play a game before I leave. I’ve got about 2 ½ weeks to pull it off. I’m so excited that there are teachers (Nyeko and Simon) who want to see this happen. If it is going to be a sustainable activity, their support and ownership is so essential.
I like teaching. It really doesn’t matter where. However, some teaching environments create interesting challenges. Our last class yesterday was held right next to the latrine. I have an overactive gag reflex at time and I’ve been learning to breathe through my mouth much more. The other challenge was the beautiful, but loud music coming from the class next door. I’m learning just to go with it, but it’s funny to me that we have this cacophony of sights, smells, and sounds; and yet students are expected to retain the content we are delivering.
On the way home Geoffrey joined me. I love this kid. He showed me a photo he had taken with the camera. It looked good. As we were walking a very old woman was knocked over by a man on a bicycle. He just stood their looking at her. We walked over to see if she was ok. We gave her a hand up. She seemed stunned and angry by what happened, but not badly injured. She was able to walk away so we continued. Three boys joined us on the way home. On the way Geoffrey told me he wanted to know more about God. “Me too!” I said and he smiled. I invited him to come to the Watoto Bible study with me this week. Back at the hotel it was a typical evening of relaxing, writing, reading, and hanging out. The group wanted to watch the Michael Jackson funeral on the TV. I decided to call it an early night.

#30 July 8th- Wednsday

-Team Teaching
While it’s good to have a schedule, life looses its flavor when you fall into a rut. My days are beginning to feel routine. I hate that feeling. I need to change that, right away. My routine is getting up grabbing breakfast, taking a shower, writing a blog, going to Café Larem to post and check email, going to the school where I sit and wait for David, teach and talk with other teachers, come back to the hotel, eat dinner, wait for Lisa to call and go to sleep. Now there are some cool things that find their way into the mix. For example, last night we had Bible Study. It’s my favorite part of my week. My friends there are like family. We had a great time last night considering what it means to be a volunteer in a place where so many people have so little money. People don’t give out of their excess. Giving is a sacrifice in this place. We read through 2 Kings 4 about how a wealthy woman who made a room in her home for a man of God and was blessed because of it. Most of the people in the group would be happy to have a room for themselves let alone a guest. They don’t get hung up on that though. We talked about how volunteering a skill at the right time is as significant as giving money. For example, if you know how to fix a motorcycle, your knowledge could be more valuable than money to a person who is in a jam. On the way to Bible study, I met Pastor Joe and his wife Jackie. They are really cool people. I think one fallacious notion that has been blown up for me is that of the poor, uninformed African who needs help from the outside. The people here have been through a devastating war for over 20 years. That has had an effect, but there are signs of resiliency and strength everywhere you look. For example, there are some men missing limbs. They get around town on a bicycle that required the use of arms and not hands. This gives me an idea. I think I’m going to create a photo essay of the hope I see here in the people.
This Thursday and Friday is sports weekend. There are students from all over the country staying here to compete at Pece stadium. I hope to see some of the competitions. I’ve been getting some positive feedback about rugby. The kids seem very interested and the best part is that Nyeko and Simon are going to be driving the bus on this venture. It has a chance to be sustainable! I’ve got to confess I am a bit irradiated with some of the missions groups I’ve seen here. It feels like conflict tourism to me. I know I can be just as guilty of blowing through town looking for a good photo opportunity. The more time I spend with my Ugandan friends, the more I realize that they don’t need me in the way I thought they would. They need me in the same why I need them. There is give and take.
This Friday I’m thinking a taking a trip to see the IC Mend operations. Mend is an IC initiative to create high quality bags for purchase in the US and beyond. The women who work there are all affected by the war in a significant way. Some were child mothers. There are really too many tailors in Gulu for the market. This is because that skill is the one that all of the NGOs were teaching during the conflict. This means that the market for tailoring is very tight. To compound that, there is a steady influx of clothes donated from the USA. This puts more pressure on the tailors, because the shops that distribute these clothes can undercut the costs of the traditional garment makers.
Well, I hope that today is more than a routine! I hope to find the rhythm and improvise a good riff or two.

#31 July 9th- Thursday

-Team Teaching
It was a quiet day at Gulu SS. Today was the beginning of the national sports competitions. Many of the students decided to take the day off and attend. Many of the teachers did the same. By the time we were ready to begin class, only about half of the students were present. We still gave a very good lesson. David had mentioned that he wanted to set up an email account, but didn’t know how. I took him over to Café Larem and we set it up.
At the school I climbed to the top of one of the buildings and got some good panoramic shots of the city. Our classes diminished to very few students so we called it a day and I went over to the stadium to see the competitions. The place was packed. I shot a little video, but I stopped after a bit. It just feels so awkward to hold up and object in a crowd that is worth twice the average annual salary of those standing next to you.

#32 July 10th- Friday

-Team Teaching
It was nice to have a day to do something that was out of the ordinary. In the morning I went around town doing errands. I’ve wanted to get Lisa and the girls some skirts in traditional African prints. I found a fabric that I liked and then found a tailor who offered a good price. I hope the girls like them. Our tailor’s name was Scovia. We had fun trying to figure out sizes based on my girl’s height. I think we nailed it.
Later in the day, we went out to see the Mend operation. It was incredible. The building was donated by the Japanese government. The shop is staffed by women who are single mothers. Each woman can create high quality garments from start to finish. They do very good work. Marie is the coordinator of the project and I can see from her energy and enthusiasm why it is such a success. I was so happy to see a project that helps women who really need the help. The staff is so happy to be there and they are well taken care of.

#33 July 11th and 12th- Saturday and Sunday

-Safari
-Lodging at Red Chili
Today was the day of the big Safari. Bill and I got up early and took a good run through the county side. He is a really cool guy. We both read through the Shack recently and so we talked a bit about how we see God. I’m so humbled to be on a teaching team like this. The teachers I work with are so bright and talented. It’s always a temptation for me to back off and not use my talents when I’m around great people. I guess this is a fear of being compared, but I’m realizing more and more that it’s not about comparison; it’s about loving others and meeting their needs.
We had a very good breakfast of chipati and omelets. One thing that you live with every day here is dirt, and lots of it. But, this weekend, I experienced more dirt than usual. At around 10:30 we left. Before taking of, I picked up two paintings that I had commissioned. One is of a family of lions; it didn’t turn out that well. The other is much better. It is an image of an African woman with a basket on her head. Inside the basket there is the continent of Africa. I think the symbolism is especially potent. Men in this society have it relatively easy. Women are sometimes characterized as lazy, but it’s hard to understand why. They carry water on their heads, wood in their arms, and babies on their backs.
I’ve never in my life traveled a bumpier road, than the one to the safari at Murchisan falls. It was a bone jarring, nauseating, dusty, and lengthy ride. To make things worse, out driver had only one mix tape with Hero from Julio Iglesias, Not a girl from Britney Spears, My Redeemer Lives from Crystal Lewis, Drowning from some boy band, and a few other songs that we heard at least 20 times each. I actually got sick enough to chuck out the window at one point. When I did, the teachers were very helpful to me. They handed me wipes and gave me some water. From that point forward, I sat shotgun, which was more like riding on the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland than my previous experience in the spin cycle. Murchisan Falls is called Paraa. It means place of the hippo. The park is breathtakingly huge. As we entered we came upon a family of giraffes. We were very close. There must have been 20 or so. In addition there were Jackson’s Hartebeests and the Ugandan Cob (gazelles). We rode through the park, wide eyed, as we came across elephants and warthogs. Eventually we arrived at the Nile….THE NILE!!!!

We took a few pictures and hopped on our boat to tour the Nile and see the falls. Along the way our guide Emmy pointed out some of the important features to notice. There is a bird called the Red throated bee eater. It is so beautiful. It is larger than a hummingbird but darts around like one. I think if the Holy Spirit took the form of a bird, this would be the one. Ok, I’ve been reading the Shack and I’m thinking a lot about how God reveals himself. I tried to capture as many pictures and videos as I could, while still enjoying the moment. One image I didn’t catch was a crocodile opening his mouth wide and lifting his tail. Only Emmy and I saw it, but I could have sworn I heard God whisper, “That one was for you Jon.” It was one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen. The falls were nice, but it’s really the wildlife that makes this place special. We saw hippos in a huge family group. We startled them and some of them ran on the ground in front of us. It was pretty awesome. We also saw an immense family of elephants; easily 30. That was incredible, but far off. I loved the smooth ride on the river boat. It was a lot like the Jungle Boat Tour at Disneyland without the cheesy humor. I learned that there is a tomb for a white person, who thought it was a good idea to jump over the falls, but the suction got him and he was splattered on the rocks below. We learned the Ernest Hemmingway crashed in a plane near the falls.
We had chicken curry for dinner and I called it an early night because we had to get up before dawn for the last portion of our trek. We took a short ferry ride across the Nile….THE NILE!!!! and we headed out on our journey. On the way we picked up a ranger to help us spot the animals. The best part was riding on top of the mutatu. Even though it was bumpy, it wasn’t as bad a riding inside. We saw elephants, baboons, assorted gazelle-like creatures, water buffalo, water bucks, hippos, warthogs, and giraffes. The size of the reserve is hard to describe. The landscape is peppered with palm trees and termite mounds. The Ugandan Cob’s coat of fur matches the color of the termite mounds perfectly. I have an appreciation for nature that I’ve never experienced before.
The ride back was a repeat of the way there minus the nausea. (Thanks Mandy for the Dramamine)
Back at the homestead John Magee put together a poker tournament. Ryan ended up winning and Annie came in a close second.
I’ll share that in the morning I woke up to what sounded like rainfall. Matt and I stepped outside expecting to see a downpour. What we saw was something entirely different. More to come……