It is the day to go home, sad for reality but ready too. Last night we got a head start on packing and were totally amazed that we could get all the stuff including lots of shopping back in our one suitcase, we were very proud of ourselves... until this morning.
Itaccured to us that we should weigh it, we were over 80 pounds! Now we had to figure out how to get 30 pounds out of the bag, which turned out to be much harder than we had anticipated, we had to buy a bag, with limited options at our resort. we stuffed that and werent even half way there, so some more juggling around and we are carrying more on the plane but we figured it out, after some tense moments, plus when i went in the safe to get my tab out to use the calcukator i dropped my phone and it broke the face and the screen wont work now. hopefully that isnt as expensive of a mistake as it looks.
we are now waiting at the lobby for our shuttle to begin our long flight and airport waits! cant waitto go home! Thanks to my sis for pickung us up! See you in 12 hours seattle!
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Xplor
Yesredat was another wet and adventurous day! It started to rain in the morning, same feeling as the day before, it woukd probably sprinkle and not clear up today too, even worse it was almost torrential pour the entire day and we were on our last excursion. but if we had to do any of our excursions in the rain, this would have been the one!
Shuttle took us to those preserved natural park, turned adventure park, we got outpr helmets and gear and proceeded to get soaked, at least it was still about 75 degrees out, which for only the Washingtons and Canadaians we thougt this was warm.
First thing we did was drive these amphibious vehicles like mini jeeps through the jungle and caves. We figured they would be slow and not much fun, but they actually hauled a little, and every so they take your pic, so we had fun with that! Than we found the ziplines, wow, we have dine ziplines befire, but not like this, these arethe highest and lingest in latin america! There was around 19 of them, 3 water landings, and a big water slide. The only hard part was after each zipline you had to climb the towers to the next, so a little exhausting walking but glad it wasnt 90+degrees out again!
than for a well deserved lunch, they had a large buffet, than to head out to the second vehicle track, this one wouldnt have been as fun except we had a traffic jamb with epother vehicles, got out to see why and two girls had gotten their jeep stuck, i dont mean like a little stuck, i mean there is one part ofnthe trail that is a suspension bridge, but it has a space in the middle, so you have to go straight diwn it and nit turn yiur wheel or it will slip in this hole, thats what they did, the entire axle was twisted and the tire jambed up, the wheel wouldnt move at all. finally help came and told us how to short cut through to miss it. i would have felt bad for them, but there were a bunch of rude bitches from jersey that were mean to us. she had to pay for the vehicle! That sucks!
so after that we figured we are soaked enough for the water adventures, there are two, rafts though the underground river and swimming in the stalactites through the cenote, latter one was awesome! it is so cool how natural and reall everything is. than we changed and headed for the shuttle home.
Shuttle took us to those preserved natural park, turned adventure park, we got outpr helmets and gear and proceeded to get soaked, at least it was still about 75 degrees out, which for only the Washingtons and Canadaians we thougt this was warm.
First thing we did was drive these amphibious vehicles like mini jeeps through the jungle and caves. We figured they would be slow and not much fun, but they actually hauled a little, and every so they take your pic, so we had fun with that! Than we found the ziplines, wow, we have dine ziplines befire, but not like this, these arethe highest and lingest in latin america! There was around 19 of them, 3 water landings, and a big water slide. The only hard part was after each zipline you had to climb the towers to the next, so a little exhausting walking but glad it wasnt 90+degrees out again!
than for a well deserved lunch, they had a large buffet, than to head out to the second vehicle track, this one wouldnt have been as fun except we had a traffic jamb with epother vehicles, got out to see why and two girls had gotten their jeep stuck, i dont mean like a little stuck, i mean there is one part ofnthe trail that is a suspension bridge, but it has a space in the middle, so you have to go straight diwn it and nit turn yiur wheel or it will slip in this hole, thats what they did, the entire axle was twisted and the tire jambed up, the wheel wouldnt move at all. finally help came and told us how to short cut through to miss it. i would have felt bad for them, but there were a bunch of rude bitches from jersey that were mean to us. she had to pay for the vehicle! That sucks!
so after that we figured we are soaked enough for the water adventures, there are two, rafts though the underground river and swimming in the stalactites through the cenote, latter one was awesome! it is so cool how natural and reall everything is. than we changed and headed for the shuttle home.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Scuba
Before I get fully in to todays activities, let me explain my problem. A few days ago we were just playing in the pool and diving in the deep end, I started to get that popping feeling in my ears, I tried to pop it, but it was a little painful, I am not new to this feeling so I ignored it.
Than when we met with the diving team they explained to us about equalizing your ears, as now after 29 years I finally get it!
So than we did our first open water dive today and I was very careful to equalize my ears, but that wasnt my problem, my ears have already been in pain for two days now, but I willnget back to that. My problem with the first open water dive was that I kept getting water in my mask, to find out after a near pannick attack and 30 minutes in the dive that my strap wasnt on correctly. I was able to easly do the back flip off the boat, start the decent, than I took on water, and breathed it in. with the help of the dive master, he pretty much held my hand the whole time, as i had to keep emptying my mask with water, and couldnt master the bouncy. but once we finished our decent, we saw the most amazing sea life, including, lobster, schools of fish, sea orchins, and an eel that seemed to really to like dennis' toes, plus much more thant I dont know.
after our dive of the amazing carribbean we were ready for relaxation, poolside and than a nap. we got ready for our last great romantic dinner, as we will arrive late tomorrow fro our last excursion. we ate at the last restraunt i our list, the italian. we were the first ones to dinner. we had a fantastic dinner with yummy courses, and than after dinner they surprised us with chamoagne and turned the lights down for a birthday celebration! It was so great! Quick walk along the beach to watch the son set and than get ready for iur last excursion if the trip. oh back to my ear ache, i definetly think there is something wrong, fluid feeling in my ears, cloudy feelinfpg, cant hear myself talk, and a dull ache, if still there wgen i get home i will get it looked at
Than when we met with the diving team they explained to us about equalizing your ears, as now after 29 years I finally get it!
So than we did our first open water dive today and I was very careful to equalize my ears, but that wasnt my problem, my ears have already been in pain for two days now, but I willnget back to that. My problem with the first open water dive was that I kept getting water in my mask, to find out after a near pannick attack and 30 minutes in the dive that my strap wasnt on correctly. I was able to easly do the back flip off the boat, start the decent, than I took on water, and breathed it in. with the help of the dive master, he pretty much held my hand the whole time, as i had to keep emptying my mask with water, and couldnt master the bouncy. but once we finished our decent, we saw the most amazing sea life, including, lobster, schools of fish, sea orchins, and an eel that seemed to really to like dennis' toes, plus much more thant I dont know.
after our dive of the amazing carribbean we were ready for relaxation, poolside and than a nap. we got ready for our last great romantic dinner, as we will arrive late tomorrow fro our last excursion. we ate at the last restraunt i our list, the italian. we were the first ones to dinner. we had a fantastic dinner with yummy courses, and than after dinner they surprised us with chamoagne and turned the lights down for a birthday celebration! It was so great! Quick walk along the beach to watch the son set and than get ready for iur last excursion if the trip. oh back to my ear ache, i definetly think there is something wrong, fluid feeling in my ears, cloudy feelinfpg, cant hear myself talk, and a dull ache, if still there wgen i get home i will get it looked at
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
wonders of the world
while booking our excursions, we were warned a few times how far away Chitzen Itza is, but we figured we are here and its one of the 7 wonders of the new world, we should do it.
so today was that day, woke up extra early, and after 3 bus transfers, and a four hour drive we arrived in the blazing heat ate spectacular sight!
Chitzen Itza is very impressive, partly because how huge and open it is, and because of how well it was constructed. it had two periods of flourishing, 450ad and 950ad, what you see on the outside is from the later, the original temple is inside, they rebuilt over the top of it.
to say it was hot was an understatement! my forehead is still on fire from the heat! after what the mexicans call vitamin c (cerveza) we were off to our next stop, the city of Vallidad. a beautiful and colorful city that is booming and used to be an old mayan temple city too. when the spainardscame and conquered their town they town down the temple and buildings of the city, but some of the bases and minimal structures still exist. here we had a fantastic buffet and than a walking tour of their town, than we toured an amazingly beatiful sink hole (cenotes)- i think before i called them caves, but they are sink holes with fresh watercreated bythe soft limestone, it was cool we could see some fossils in the limestone from when it was under water as the coral reef.
next came that dreaded ride back to our hotel, which turned out even worse when we were the kast ones left on the bus to find out that non english speaking driver (the guide had already gotten off) forgot about our hotel and we had to back track almist an hour to drop us off! I wanted nothing motpre than to get off that bus, i was considering walking or a taxi!
so now the heat exhaustion has hit us and we are off to bed again!
missing my family, friends, and especially my pets, please give my kitties some cuddling Jess, and Oneta give Burton a kiss from me!
so today was that day, woke up extra early, and after 3 bus transfers, and a four hour drive we arrived in the blazing heat ate spectacular sight!
Chitzen Itza is very impressive, partly because how huge and open it is, and because of how well it was constructed. it had two periods of flourishing, 450ad and 950ad, what you see on the outside is from the later, the original temple is inside, they rebuilt over the top of it.
to say it was hot was an understatement! my forehead is still on fire from the heat! after what the mexicans call vitamin c (cerveza) we were off to our next stop, the city of Vallidad. a beautiful and colorful city that is booming and used to be an old mayan temple city too. when the spainardscame and conquered their town they town down the temple and buildings of the city, but some of the bases and minimal structures still exist. here we had a fantastic buffet and than a walking tour of their town, than we toured an amazingly beatiful sink hole (cenotes)- i think before i called them caves, but they are sink holes with fresh watercreated bythe soft limestone, it was cool we could see some fossils in the limestone from when it was under water as the coral reef.
next came that dreaded ride back to our hotel, which turned out even worse when we were the kast ones left on the bus to find out that non english speaking driver (the guide had already gotten off) forgot about our hotel and we had to back track almist an hour to drop us off! I wanted nothing motpre than to get off that bus, i was considering walking or a taxi!
so now the heat exhaustion has hit us and we are off to bed again!
missing my family, friends, and especially my pets, please give my kitties some cuddling Jess, and Oneta give Burton a kiss from me!
Second Honeymoon
I am a day behind so let me try and catch up. when I first booked our hotel, I wanted the suite with the private hot tub on the balcony, you could only get it with the honeymoon package, so not thinking much about it, i booked honeymoon room. whem we arrived they told us to check wit the concierge for our honeymoon package details, we were than told that with it we got two 25 minute massages, private romantic dinner, two honeymooners tshirts, breakfast in bed, and champagne and chocolate dipped strawberries. sweet!
so we took advantage of all these things yesterday! We awoke to our yummy breakfast in bed, than showed up for our massage, which was way better than expected, we had couples massage outside in a private area of the jungle, well needed after that long sdventure the day before.
before we could take advantage of the rest of it we played outside, kayaked in the ocean, layed by the pool and beach, than took our first scuba lesson!Thatwas a lot of fun, thursday we go for the big dive, for us at least.
than we got ready for romantic dinner, which was fantastic, delicios food, great view and very nice. returned to iur room with two freshly rolled towel swans, petals, and our tshirts awaiting, our champagne and strawberries followed soon! Fun and romantic day!
so we took advantage of all these things yesterday! We awoke to our yummy breakfast in bed, than showed up for our massage, which was way better than expected, we had couples massage outside in a private area of the jungle, well needed after that long sdventure the day before.
before we could take advantage of the rest of it we played outside, kayaked in the ocean, layed by the pool and beach, than took our first scuba lesson!Thatwas a lot of fun, thursday we go for the big dive, for us at least.
than we got ready for romantic dinner, which was fantastic, delicios food, great view and very nice. returned to iur room with two freshly rolled towel swans, petals, and our tshirts awaiting, our champagne and strawberries followed soon! Fun and romantic day!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Coba
we had an amazing and adventurous day yesterday! After a long bus ride of pick ups, there was only 12 of us, including our guide, 3 from Mexico City, 4 from Spain, 1 from Canada, and crazy enough another couple from Washington State!
First we went to this little Mayan village way out in the Yucatan jungle, there we canoed, hiked through the jungle, did a zipline over crocodiles, than more jungle hiking, and arrived at large hole in the ground, but before we could look at it we had to be blessed by the Mayans, this hole is made by limestone (coral) all the yucatan was under water, when the crater hit the earth it turned everything out, so the limestone is very soft and poreous, with lots of water and trees its gives way to these underground caves called Cenotes. so this one is huge, its also the entrance to this villages underground, so we had to be blessed and cleansed to enter it. the cutest short mayan guy did this amazing ceremony,we had an opportunity to bless our friends and family that couldnt make journey too.
than we stepped to the hole, you look down this hole and you see water, we are about to rappell in to that! We have our harnesses on and they tie a figure out loop around you line and you are holding all your weight and lowering yourself down 45 feet in the water, that is 60 feet deep! And very refreshingly cold, since we have been sweating the hole time. right before we hit the water the guy in the water puts an innertube under us so we can just float, it was amazin. it is pitch black and bats flying over your head as you are swimming!
the return was harder, they just hook your harness to the line and the guys have to raise you, so they pull, than jerk stop, than jerk start, but i made it!
next we had an authentic mayan meal, vegetable soup, rice, beans, chicken, and ensenadas, which dennis loved, i think he ate like twelve! Than we relaxed in the hammocks and got ready for the ride to the Coba.
when we arrived in coba we met our guide, he is a coba native and he explained the history of Coba, it is the oldest Mayan village, very amazing to see and learn the history, than we had the chance to go to the large temple, we hopped on a tricycle taxi and the guy had to pettle us 1 mile each way to the base this huge temple, 120 steps to the top, not regular steps, large brick steps, so we climbed to the top in the blaring heat, never sweatedmore, net even in hot yoga! Atthe top was the ,ost amazing view of the jungle, you could see everything.
it was pretty cool that we able to climb this one, as you cant climb chitzenitza or tullum, at after the first they will close the climbing of this one too!
after our scary descent we took a nap on the bus ride home and than relaxed in iur room til dinner time, once we walked out it startedto sprinkle, we werent too worried, until the torrntial downpoor began, we were walking up the ling walkway from the beach to the lobby where the buffet was, after we got there we were soaking wet, but laughing, another yummy meal at the buffet than back to bed we went.
First we went to this little Mayan village way out in the Yucatan jungle, there we canoed, hiked through the jungle, did a zipline over crocodiles, than more jungle hiking, and arrived at large hole in the ground, but before we could look at it we had to be blessed by the Mayans, this hole is made by limestone (coral) all the yucatan was under water, when the crater hit the earth it turned everything out, so the limestone is very soft and poreous, with lots of water and trees its gives way to these underground caves called Cenotes. so this one is huge, its also the entrance to this villages underground, so we had to be blessed and cleansed to enter it. the cutest short mayan guy did this amazing ceremony,we had an opportunity to bless our friends and family that couldnt make journey too.
than we stepped to the hole, you look down this hole and you see water, we are about to rappell in to that! We have our harnesses on and they tie a figure out loop around you line and you are holding all your weight and lowering yourself down 45 feet in the water, that is 60 feet deep! And very refreshingly cold, since we have been sweating the hole time. right before we hit the water the guy in the water puts an innertube under us so we can just float, it was amazin. it is pitch black and bats flying over your head as you are swimming!
the return was harder, they just hook your harness to the line and the guys have to raise you, so they pull, than jerk stop, than jerk start, but i made it!
next we had an authentic mayan meal, vegetable soup, rice, beans, chicken, and ensenadas, which dennis loved, i think he ate like twelve! Than we relaxed in the hammocks and got ready for the ride to the Coba.
when we arrived in coba we met our guide, he is a coba native and he explained the history of Coba, it is the oldest Mayan village, very amazing to see and learn the history, than we had the chance to go to the large temple, we hopped on a tricycle taxi and the guy had to pettle us 1 mile each way to the base this huge temple, 120 steps to the top, not regular steps, large brick steps, so we climbed to the top in the blaring heat, never sweatedmore, net even in hot yoga! Atthe top was the ,ost amazing view of the jungle, you could see everything.
it was pretty cool that we able to climb this one, as you cant climb chitzenitza or tullum, at after the first they will close the climbing of this one too!
after our scary descent we took a nap on the bus ride home and than relaxed in iur room til dinner time, once we walked out it startedto sprinkle, we werent too worried, until the torrntial downpoor began, we were walking up the ling walkway from the beach to the lobby where the buffet was, after we got there we were soaking wet, but laughing, another yummy meal at the buffet than back to bed we went.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
The ocean
first, to finish up yesterday, our hotel has 6 restuarants, a buffet, mexican, italian, steakhouse, crepery, and tapas, so we have decided to try all 6, last night we went to the steakhouse, and after a very disappointing an unusual meal, we ended up at the buffet and had cheese pizza and dessert because we were still hungry!
but yhe buffet is great, went there for breakfast again today, i had tacos and dennis had quesidillas, yes i did say breakfast!
this morning we booked our excursions, so excited for what we have happening, tomorriw we shall see iur first ruins at Coba and than rapell in to the cenotes!
after booking our fun we took a taxi in to town and attempted to shop, i felt like crying after they make you feel so bad if you dont walk in to their shops and buy something, we didnt do too much because of the heat and my lack if shopping drive. everything was way more expensuve than i had anticipated. but we did shop at walmart! Haha
than went for a relaxing swim in the pool, than played in the ocean again, which was a blast til these huge angel looking fish kept swimmung after our toes, we freaked our selves out!
now timeti get ready for dinner, and off to bed early for our fun day tomorrow!
but yhe buffet is great, went there for breakfast again today, i had tacos and dennis had quesidillas, yes i did say breakfast!
this morning we booked our excursions, so excited for what we have happening, tomorriw we shall see iur first ruins at Coba and than rapell in to the cenotes!
after booking our fun we took a taxi in to town and attempted to shop, i felt like crying after they make you feel so bad if you dont walk in to their shops and buy something, we didnt do too much because of the heat and my lack if shopping drive. everything was way more expensuve than i had anticipated. but we did shop at walmart! Haha
than went for a relaxing swim in the pool, than played in the ocean again, which was a blast til these huge angel looking fish kept swimmung after our toes, we freaked our selves out!
now timeti get ready for dinner, and off to bed early for our fun day tomorrow!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
surprise
lets see, where do i begin? First off i'm typing this from my tab, and will not proof read or add in puncuation, or fix spelling, so bare with me.
yesterday, i threw Dennis a surprise birthday party wit an extra special surprise towards the end. i booked us a vacation in Playa del Carmen (outside cancun), but we would be leaving in 2 hours, bags packed and everything, so now i write from our hotel room in PDC.
after two flights and a layover we stepped off te plane to what we now know as humidity, i knew we would like this! Found our shuttle waiting and headed out of cancun towards PDC, i was a little nervous to see how the hotel actually looked because of te cheap price i paid, and was more than pleasently surprised!
we were greted by te nicest guy that checked us in, swooped us straight to the bar the fill our hands with pina coladas and margaritas, the best ever too. once we arrived in our room we were shocked of the size, how nice it was and the fantastic ammenities, huge four poster bed, robes, spa bath, stocked mini bar that is included too, and private soaking tub on the private balacony.
so far we have walked alomg the gorgeous white sand beach, explored a shut down really old hotel, body surfed in the ocean, relaxed by the water,and planned our excursions, cant wait for what we have in the coming days!
we ate at the buffet for lunch, dennis had pasta and pizza :) i tried awesome enchiladas and fresh fruit, just about to head out to dinner now, be back tomorrow
yesterday, i threw Dennis a surprise birthday party wit an extra special surprise towards the end. i booked us a vacation in Playa del Carmen (outside cancun), but we would be leaving in 2 hours, bags packed and everything, so now i write from our hotel room in PDC.
after two flights and a layover we stepped off te plane to what we now know as humidity, i knew we would like this! Found our shuttle waiting and headed out of cancun towards PDC, i was a little nervous to see how the hotel actually looked because of te cheap price i paid, and was more than pleasently surprised!
we were greted by te nicest guy that checked us in, swooped us straight to the bar the fill our hands with pina coladas and margaritas, the best ever too. once we arrived in our room we were shocked of the size, how nice it was and the fantastic ammenities, huge four poster bed, robes, spa bath, stocked mini bar that is included too, and private soaking tub on the private balacony.
so far we have walked alomg the gorgeous white sand beach, explored a shut down really old hotel, body surfed in the ocean, relaxed by the water,and planned our excursions, cant wait for what we have in the coming days!
we ate at the buffet for lunch, dennis had pasta and pizza :) i tried awesome enchiladas and fresh fruit, just about to head out to dinner now, be back tomorrow
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Water
22 Feb 2011 9:40pm
Time for bed again, we are all just beat, today was the sweatiest day by far!
After a delicious lunch of green pepper, onions, egg plant and tomato spaghetti. Our cook Tony just loved trying new things in the kitchen!
After lunch we all gathered-minus the dental crew and hopped in the back of the truck and headed to the villages to hand out toys and clothing that we brought. Since my neck was still hurting, I rode in the cab and held my neck and relaxed during the bumpy ride. By the end I was feeling so much better, I think the sun helped to relax me too.
The journey to the families was definitely something I will never forget! First we saw a man made water hole that the neighbors got together and dug in a slopped hill about the size of a small swimming pool. What collects is the rain water, still and extremely stagnate. It was so gross. Milky brown and has plants growing in it. So sad. We saw some children heading home from school and gave them toys, at first they were very intimidated but then started getting excited and took the toys.
Off to two more waterholes- same nasty, brown stagnant water. So of the people don't even boil it, because they don't want to waste the fuel or they just aren't educated enough to know.
We went to a house that was being built that Fred funded. The mother was in Kampala at the hospital and someone burnt her house down while she away with her children inside. He kids fled to the two close neighbors, no one go hurt. But her house was gone. So great to see Fred reaching outside to the community too!
We met the women and her children, we supplied them all with new clothes and toys. The best thing for me to see was Dennis was actually helping dress the children! :)
Than we went to the neighbors house, man and 3 children, they were very frightened as thy don't get many visitors or see white people. We left clothes there too.
We headed back by truck and from the orphanage we walked to a compound of 3 mud huts, different families but same tribe. So great to see how they really live. They had cows, chickens, and even 2 puppies!
Once we returned to the orphanage it was time for the children to show us their children's program.
Now this was amazing! All over 400 kids were in the church, they had us all sit up front and the choir was on stage and sang us 2 English songs that they honored us in, saying goodbye and thankful for coming. I can't wait to watch the video I took to listen to their words more.
Next was the best ever they did a traditional African dance for us. It was so wonderful, they sang danced, shook their hips and did what looked like a dance off. So entertaining!
After the children's programs we gave them candy to show more of our appreciation too. It was a mad house, the teachers tried to control the chaos, but at one point Dennis thought he would be trampled!
When we went back to our guest house we made some of the bead necklaces, as it was really hard to show a swarm of the kids at once. The girls passed them out and than we played Frisbee and after dinner we pulled out glow sticks. Such a great time!
I know I will miss each and everyone of them, but I will not forget about them or let them fall from my prayers!
We leave at 530am to head off to a 6 hour drive (all in Ugandan time mind you!) and make it to the boat at 2pm for a boat ride to the safari!
Oh let me update the dental clinic, Jeremy saw over 50 patients, 24 just today! He had 2 rooms going and was just amazing! Everyone involved with the dental clinic worked so hard!
I know they wanted to see more, but that is 50 people that they helped! Koodoos to them.
I almost forgot about the women's group items we got to purchase. These beautiful baskets, mats, necklaces, hats and bracelets that the women made and sold. I really wanted a basket and mat but couldn't pack. But got lots of beaded necklaces!
Time for bed again, we are all just beat, today was the sweatiest day by far!
After a delicious lunch of green pepper, onions, egg plant and tomato spaghetti. Our cook Tony just loved trying new things in the kitchen!
After lunch we all gathered-minus the dental crew and hopped in the back of the truck and headed to the villages to hand out toys and clothing that we brought. Since my neck was still hurting, I rode in the cab and held my neck and relaxed during the bumpy ride. By the end I was feeling so much better, I think the sun helped to relax me too.
The journey to the families was definitely something I will never forget! First we saw a man made water hole that the neighbors got together and dug in a slopped hill about the size of a small swimming pool. What collects is the rain water, still and extremely stagnate. It was so gross. Milky brown and has plants growing in it. So sad. We saw some children heading home from school and gave them toys, at first they were very intimidated but then started getting excited and took the toys.
Off to two more waterholes- same nasty, brown stagnant water. So of the people don't even boil it, because they don't want to waste the fuel or they just aren't educated enough to know.
We went to a house that was being built that Fred funded. The mother was in Kampala at the hospital and someone burnt her house down while she away with her children inside. He kids fled to the two close neighbors, no one go hurt. But her house was gone. So great to see Fred reaching outside to the community too!
We met the women and her children, we supplied them all with new clothes and toys. The best thing for me to see was Dennis was actually helping dress the children! :)
Than we went to the neighbors house, man and 3 children, they were very frightened as thy don't get many visitors or see white people. We left clothes there too.
We headed back by truck and from the orphanage we walked to a compound of 3 mud huts, different families but same tribe. So great to see how they really live. They had cows, chickens, and even 2 puppies!
Once we returned to the orphanage it was time for the children to show us their children's program.
Now this was amazing! All over 400 kids were in the church, they had us all sit up front and the choir was on stage and sang us 2 English songs that they honored us in, saying goodbye and thankful for coming. I can't wait to watch the video I took to listen to their words more.
Next was the best ever they did a traditional African dance for us. It was so wonderful, they sang danced, shook their hips and did what looked like a dance off. So entertaining!
After the children's programs we gave them candy to show more of our appreciation too. It was a mad house, the teachers tried to control the chaos, but at one point Dennis thought he would be trampled!
When we went back to our guest house we made some of the bead necklaces, as it was really hard to show a swarm of the kids at once. The girls passed them out and than we played Frisbee and after dinner we pulled out glow sticks. Such a great time!
I know I will miss each and everyone of them, but I will not forget about them or let them fall from my prayers!
We leave at 530am to head off to a 6 hour drive (all in Ugandan time mind you!) and make it to the boat at 2pm for a boat ride to the safari!
Oh let me update the dental clinic, Jeremy saw over 50 patients, 24 just today! He had 2 rooms going and was just amazing! Everyone involved with the dental clinic worked so hard!
I know they wanted to see more, but that is 50 people that they helped! Koodoos to them.
I almost forgot about the women's group items we got to purchase. These beautiful baskets, mats, necklaces, hats and bracelets that the women made and sold. I really wanted a basket and mat but couldn't pack. But got lots of beaded necklaces!
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| Trevor handing out the toys to the kids we saw by the watering holes |
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| One of the hand made water holes |
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| The house that Fred funded |
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| Dennis dressing the kids that lived in the burned down house |
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| Our guest house |
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| Of the mud huts from the neighboring compound |
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| All the kids at the children's program |
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| The choir |
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| Dennis handing out the candy |
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| Part of the team with our glowsticks |
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| Glow sticks! |
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Pain
22 Feb 2011 5:03am
Woke up to a panic attack, excruciating pain in my neck I never felt before. Every time I tired to move my neck or head I would get a surge of pain, see red and lock up. It took me at least 20 minutes to reach my watch to check the time. 4:03am. After 3 more panic attacks my range of motion started to get better. I really don't want to wake anyone, but I still can't get up, just had another one when I tried to scratch my head. Lifting my arms in certain positions hurts really bad. I see red and just cry.
It feels like a pinch nerve but won't go away. I have been able to roll on my right side really, really slowly, but have to roll back with out turning my head. I just want to sleep it off but I can't get comfortable.
22 Feb 2011 11:20am
Around 5:30am the roosters woke up the rest of the ladies and they heard me whimpering. As wonderful as they are, they all came to my bedside to help me. I still couldn't move so Yvonne gave me 3 Advil and than Jen had bio-freeze (a topical pain reliever) that she rubbed all over my neck and shoulders it made it tingle and feel much better. But every once in awhile when she touched certain spots it was extreme pain again.
I felt horrible for keeping everyone awake to attend to me. But they were so great to me. Dennis came in and comforted me too. Yvonne gave me 1/2 a pill to calm me down. Shannon lad by my bedside to keep me company, what a great friend.
I feel asleep for a little, but woke up to get up and stretch. It has still been hurting, I can't fully move my neck and some times the nerve will shoot with pain that goes all the way down to my toes. But I think I'm doing better. But I'm sure my group won't agree.
Since I'm not fully mobile, I even needed help to get dressed! Thanks to Yvonne and Shannon that's what friends are for!
We split in to teams and some went to the clinic for the last day of dentistry work, some to construction for the library and the rest to finish handing out the letters to the last 4 rooms we couldn't get to yesterday.
Shannon, Dennis, Ryann and I went to the baby room first. We handed out colored pictures we did last night and silly band bracelets, which was a hit! They aer so cute!
Than we headed to the Primary 7 room, handed out letters, pens, and toothbrushes. All the children were so happy. The classes are going to write back so we can bring them back to America with us.
Than we decided to jump rope with the kids. So much fun! They knew how to jump rope and just loved it!
Now I'm relaxing and the girls are helping Tony our chef, cook lunch.
Woke up to a panic attack, excruciating pain in my neck I never felt before. Every time I tired to move my neck or head I would get a surge of pain, see red and lock up. It took me at least 20 minutes to reach my watch to check the time. 4:03am. After 3 more panic attacks my range of motion started to get better. I really don't want to wake anyone, but I still can't get up, just had another one when I tried to scratch my head. Lifting my arms in certain positions hurts really bad. I see red and just cry.
It feels like a pinch nerve but won't go away. I have been able to roll on my right side really, really slowly, but have to roll back with out turning my head. I just want to sleep it off but I can't get comfortable.
22 Feb 2011 11:20am
Around 5:30am the roosters woke up the rest of the ladies and they heard me whimpering. As wonderful as they are, they all came to my bedside to help me. I still couldn't move so Yvonne gave me 3 Advil and than Jen had bio-freeze (a topical pain reliever) that she rubbed all over my neck and shoulders it made it tingle and feel much better. But every once in awhile when she touched certain spots it was extreme pain again.
I felt horrible for keeping everyone awake to attend to me. But they were so great to me. Dennis came in and comforted me too. Yvonne gave me 1/2 a pill to calm me down. Shannon lad by my bedside to keep me company, what a great friend.
I feel asleep for a little, but woke up to get up and stretch. It has still been hurting, I can't fully move my neck and some times the nerve will shoot with pain that goes all the way down to my toes. But I think I'm doing better. But I'm sure my group won't agree.
Since I'm not fully mobile, I even needed help to get dressed! Thanks to Yvonne and Shannon that's what friends are for!
We split in to teams and some went to the clinic for the last day of dentistry work, some to construction for the library and the rest to finish handing out the letters to the last 4 rooms we couldn't get to yesterday.
Shannon, Dennis, Ryann and I went to the baby room first. We handed out colored pictures we did last night and silly band bracelets, which was a hit! They aer so cute!
Than we headed to the Primary 7 room, handed out letters, pens, and toothbrushes. All the children were so happy. The classes are going to write back so we can bring them back to America with us.
Than we decided to jump rope with the kids. So much fun! They knew how to jump rope and just loved it!
Now I'm relaxing and the girls are helping Tony our chef, cook lunch.
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| Coloring the baby classes letters the night before |
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| Dennis handing out the colorings |
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| Shannon and Ryann in the baby class |
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| My proud hubby! |
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| The primary 7 class |
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| Little jump rope |
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| Shannon and Jen helping Tony cook |
Friday, March 25, 2011
Nails
21 Feb 2011 9pm
I figured I would finish up the day today. I'm very tired so we will see how much I can elaborate!
After lunch we went to help the workers on the library. They were going to finish up the plaster and didn't need our help. Honestly I was relieved, at this point I'm very exhausted, it is very very hot out, I'm sticky and starting to fry! Plus I'm not good at that job :)
So I headed to the clinic to see how Dr. Jeremy was doing. Hung around long enough to see 1 of 3 extractions from a teenage girl. Yup that was enough for me. Headed back and pulled out the nail polish and started painting nails and toes on all the pretty little girls and some boys. I think all of us ladies that participated had fun, except I spilled a little on my skirt. We also did it in the shade, which was a nice break! :)
Next we finished organizing the letters from back home to pass out to all the classes. They have Baby, Middle, Top, Primary 1-7 (10 different classes in total).
Dennis and I got primary 4 class, after arriving we found out there was a little confusion and the children had already graduated to the next level- Primary 5. So we changed classrooms and got the letters, toothbrushes, toothpaste, pens and pencils to every student.
It was great the kids were excited to see us and sang for us when we walked in. They all smiled and thanked us after they got their stuff.
Our guest house is next to the large play field so sometimes we will find the kids standing by our back door waiting for us to bring stuff out! They wanted bubbles this time, but with the broken well we didn't want to waste their precious resource!
Instead we pulled out soccer balls, frisbees, and more nail polish. It was great to sit on the ground and they all would surround us and put their hands in your face. But they are so well behaved if you say, your next they say 'Okay" and wait patiently.
Once dinner started we found out another miracle happened, this place is filled with amazing things!
The workers on the well wanted to try and get the broken pipe out themselves instead of having to wait for the equipment for a month! They made a funnel and fished it down the hold and after just the second try they threaded it on to the broken pipe over 90 meters down, than slowly pulled it out!
They finished fixing the well problem and soon they were pumping water out of the ground again!
I'm exhausted at this point, need sleep and to re energize for tomorrow!
One funny thing, our cook Tony (which is great and super friendly) is a little overwhelmed of our processed foods and doesn't know hot to cook them all. So we have been showing him small things to help him along. This morning Shannon and him made pancakes. Than for dinner I had explained how to make the Top Ramen we brought. He loved it!
So far the food is pretty good, I'm staying away from the meat, mainly because they machete it all and there are bones in stew, kebabs, everything! But the fruit is fantastic! For every meal we have had pineapple, watermelon, papaya and avocados.
They are all the best I have ever had! Tony's eggs are the best, he says he adds spices, but so great and they come fresh from the chicken coop!
This place is so sustainable its great!
Okay arm is cramping and I'm tired!
I figured I would finish up the day today. I'm very tired so we will see how much I can elaborate!
After lunch we went to help the workers on the library. They were going to finish up the plaster and didn't need our help. Honestly I was relieved, at this point I'm very exhausted, it is very very hot out, I'm sticky and starting to fry! Plus I'm not good at that job :)
So I headed to the clinic to see how Dr. Jeremy was doing. Hung around long enough to see 1 of 3 extractions from a teenage girl. Yup that was enough for me. Headed back and pulled out the nail polish and started painting nails and toes on all the pretty little girls and some boys. I think all of us ladies that participated had fun, except I spilled a little on my skirt. We also did it in the shade, which was a nice break! :)
Next we finished organizing the letters from back home to pass out to all the classes. They have Baby, Middle, Top, Primary 1-7 (10 different classes in total).
Dennis and I got primary 4 class, after arriving we found out there was a little confusion and the children had already graduated to the next level- Primary 5. So we changed classrooms and got the letters, toothbrushes, toothpaste, pens and pencils to every student.
It was great the kids were excited to see us and sang for us when we walked in. They all smiled and thanked us after they got their stuff.
Our guest house is next to the large play field so sometimes we will find the kids standing by our back door waiting for us to bring stuff out! They wanted bubbles this time, but with the broken well we didn't want to waste their precious resource!
Instead we pulled out soccer balls, frisbees, and more nail polish. It was great to sit on the ground and they all would surround us and put their hands in your face. But they are so well behaved if you say, your next they say 'Okay" and wait patiently.
Once dinner started we found out another miracle happened, this place is filled with amazing things!
The workers on the well wanted to try and get the broken pipe out themselves instead of having to wait for the equipment for a month! They made a funnel and fished it down the hold and after just the second try they threaded it on to the broken pipe over 90 meters down, than slowly pulled it out!
They finished fixing the well problem and soon they were pumping water out of the ground again!
I'm exhausted at this point, need sleep and to re energize for tomorrow!
One funny thing, our cook Tony (which is great and super friendly) is a little overwhelmed of our processed foods and doesn't know hot to cook them all. So we have been showing him small things to help him along. This morning Shannon and him made pancakes. Than for dinner I had explained how to make the Top Ramen we brought. He loved it!
So far the food is pretty good, I'm staying away from the meat, mainly because they machete it all and there are bones in stew, kebabs, everything! But the fruit is fantastic! For every meal we have had pineapple, watermelon, papaya and avocados.
They are all the best I have ever had! Tony's eggs are the best, he says he adds spices, but so great and they come fresh from the chicken coop!
This place is so sustainable its great!
Okay arm is cramping and I'm tired!
The Well
21 Feb 2011 1:56pm
Woke up to some back pain this morning, which is nothing new, after some stretching I'm feeling just fine.
The kids were heading in to school when we started eating breakfast.
We at first decided to find something to do while the dental clinic was being set up. But the work seemed to find us. We found out the well can not be easily fixed. The pipes fell down 120 meters and can only be reached by certain equipment that there is only 2 of in the entire Uganda!
The closest one is on the other end of Uganda and doing a project. It has been expected the well will take a month to fix!
We decided to help fill the jerry cans, Fred got us a truck to drive us, 3 large tanks and jerry cans to the river to fill. We all piled in the back and held on tight for a very bumpy ride.
We got lots of stares as we filled our containers in the very dirty water.
To tell you how dirty it is, Shannon put her arm over the container to keep it from spilling and with in 1/2 hour had a rash all over that arm.
Once we got back we all got ready to mix up the plaster to fill in the brick walls inside the library. Very dirty but fun job for those that did it. I opted to fill the cans for the plaster and for the kitchen to make the children's lunches.
The kids lined up for lunches and after having to wait for the food to be cooked because they just got their water they got a more than expected helping of rice and beans.
Now we are all enjoying our lunch break.
When I hear stories I'm trying to be better about remembering to write them down.
Fred was talking about why the children have their ears pierced. It is a sign that they are "un-pure" to the head hunters.
He said there are allot of rich men that have witch doctors and before they build new buildings, the witch doctors have instructed them to find and sacrifice a child and than build the building on top to have their building flourish. They pay headhunters to find them "pure" children to sacrifice.
There are so many stories of the horrible treatment that still goes on in Uganda, and most of Africa itself.
There are so many men that just have sex for pleasure and some have 25 children that they don't feed or take care of. Most are extremely malnourished. Most men will beat their children for crying and just leave the woman to attend to them.
Fred is such an amazing man for being so different and loving than the rest. He was abused in numerous homes growing up and still deciding to do all he could do to help children.
He started this orphanage in 2005 not just as a place for orphans but as a school to be able to educate the children. He encourages and teaches each one to be their best, they want to be teachers, doctors and business men.
He said most of Uganda is so uneducated they don't know anything different. He tried to teach safe sex and the men believed the condoms produced cancer, because of the lubricant. They don't know any better. They said they would rather die of aids than cancer.
He is educating this generation so they can lead and spread the good educated words. He has so many wonderful things happening here.
Woke up to some back pain this morning, which is nothing new, after some stretching I'm feeling just fine.
The kids were heading in to school when we started eating breakfast.
We at first decided to find something to do while the dental clinic was being set up. But the work seemed to find us. We found out the well can not be easily fixed. The pipes fell down 120 meters and can only be reached by certain equipment that there is only 2 of in the entire Uganda!
The closest one is on the other end of Uganda and doing a project. It has been expected the well will take a month to fix!
We decided to help fill the jerry cans, Fred got us a truck to drive us, 3 large tanks and jerry cans to the river to fill. We all piled in the back and held on tight for a very bumpy ride.
We got lots of stares as we filled our containers in the very dirty water.
To tell you how dirty it is, Shannon put her arm over the container to keep it from spilling and with in 1/2 hour had a rash all over that arm.
Once we got back we all got ready to mix up the plaster to fill in the brick walls inside the library. Very dirty but fun job for those that did it. I opted to fill the cans for the plaster and for the kitchen to make the children's lunches.
The kids lined up for lunches and after having to wait for the food to be cooked because they just got their water they got a more than expected helping of rice and beans.
Now we are all enjoying our lunch break.
When I hear stories I'm trying to be better about remembering to write them down.
Fred was talking about why the children have their ears pierced. It is a sign that they are "un-pure" to the head hunters.
He said there are allot of rich men that have witch doctors and before they build new buildings, the witch doctors have instructed them to find and sacrifice a child and than build the building on top to have their building flourish. They pay headhunters to find them "pure" children to sacrifice.
There are so many stories of the horrible treatment that still goes on in Uganda, and most of Africa itself.
There are so many men that just have sex for pleasure and some have 25 children that they don't feed or take care of. Most are extremely malnourished. Most men will beat their children for crying and just leave the woman to attend to them.
Fred is such an amazing man for being so different and loving than the rest. He was abused in numerous homes growing up and still deciding to do all he could do to help children.
He started this orphanage in 2005 not just as a place for orphans but as a school to be able to educate the children. He encourages and teaches each one to be their best, they want to be teachers, doctors and business men.
He said most of Uganda is so uneducated they don't know anything different. He tried to teach safe sex and the men believed the condoms produced cancer, because of the lubricant. They don't know any better. They said they would rather die of aids than cancer.
He is educating this generation so they can lead and spread the good educated words. He has so many wonderful things happening here.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Matthew 5:16
20 Feb 2011 9:52pm
Today was a day of hope.
We woke up to the sweet sound of a rooster :) Great breakfast of fruit and eggs, which were delicious.
Got in our Sunday best and headed off to church. What an amazing experience to see.
The church members walk up to 2 hours to attend the service, and they all showed up in their beautiful, dolled up attire.
The children carry in their own pews which are their desks from school. Service was amazing, I felt like they honored us for the entire service! They sang the most beautiful songs, all the congregation claps while so many children stand on stage and sing.
Trevor recorded them, can't wait to listen to that again and share it.
The rest of the service was a great speech and story from the Pastor and his translator. It was actually very entertaining and wonderful. So glad to be apart of that.
After church we set up the dental office in the clinic, while that was being done the rest of us played with the kids.
I pulled out the bubbles and the kids went crazy. It was so much fun. We put dish soap in small containers with water and played with the wands. By the end most of the kids were covered in soapy bubbles!
The boys set up the soccer nets and played and played with the kids.
We went to check out our dentist Jeremy and his nurses Katie, Jen, Joy and Mikaela. Wow he had a line around the corner and was extracting teeth left and right! He saw 9 people, 15 extractions, and one reconstruction. All in one day!! Amazing and he has 2 more full days!
Found the well broke again today, this time a chain. Fred called the technician but he won't be out til tomorrow morning. We saw the children walking with their jerry cans and wanted to follow. We asked Fred if it was okay and he gave us a guide and we were off. We walked about a mile, half way there, when we found the children walking back and herding a bunch of cows out of their way!
All the children carry around 10 liters of water each, some twice that.
We finished down to the lake. Once we reached the lake we had to go down a hill to reach the muddy water. Again amazed that the children A. have to carry all that water and that B. they have to drink it!
Our guides took a swim, we took photos of course! We are exhausted and it is very very hot and we are sticky. We still have the long trek ahead of us. We only did this once!
On our way back we passed the children coming back down to the lake to do their second run! Yes they do that twice!
We headed back to the orphanage and checked in on our mobile dentist clinic. Watched a woman get Novocaine in her gums to prepare her for an upcoming extraction!
After dinner we all gathered for a quick group meeting and I wrangled everyone in to a group photo!
The best part was walking out to the open field and seeing all the stars. I couldn't believe how many you can see. It was a sight of beauty. You can see the entire milky way! We saw quite a few bats that started dive bombing us, which of course I found cool!
Today was a day of hope.
We woke up to the sweet sound of a rooster :) Great breakfast of fruit and eggs, which were delicious.
Got in our Sunday best and headed off to church. What an amazing experience to see.
The church members walk up to 2 hours to attend the service, and they all showed up in their beautiful, dolled up attire.
The children carry in their own pews which are their desks from school. Service was amazing, I felt like they honored us for the entire service! They sang the most beautiful songs, all the congregation claps while so many children stand on stage and sing.
Trevor recorded them, can't wait to listen to that again and share it.
The rest of the service was a great speech and story from the Pastor and his translator. It was actually very entertaining and wonderful. So glad to be apart of that.
After church we set up the dental office in the clinic, while that was being done the rest of us played with the kids.
I pulled out the bubbles and the kids went crazy. It was so much fun. We put dish soap in small containers with water and played with the wands. By the end most of the kids were covered in soapy bubbles!
The boys set up the soccer nets and played and played with the kids.
We went to check out our dentist Jeremy and his nurses Katie, Jen, Joy and Mikaela. Wow he had a line around the corner and was extracting teeth left and right! He saw 9 people, 15 extractions, and one reconstruction. All in one day!! Amazing and he has 2 more full days!
Found the well broke again today, this time a chain. Fred called the technician but he won't be out til tomorrow morning. We saw the children walking with their jerry cans and wanted to follow. We asked Fred if it was okay and he gave us a guide and we were off. We walked about a mile, half way there, when we found the children walking back and herding a bunch of cows out of their way!
All the children carry around 10 liters of water each, some twice that.
We finished down to the lake. Once we reached the lake we had to go down a hill to reach the muddy water. Again amazed that the children A. have to carry all that water and that B. they have to drink it!
Our guides took a swim, we took photos of course! We are exhausted and it is very very hot and we are sticky. We still have the long trek ahead of us. We only did this once!
On our way back we passed the children coming back down to the lake to do their second run! Yes they do that twice!
We headed back to the orphanage and checked in on our mobile dentist clinic. Watched a woman get Novocaine in her gums to prepare her for an upcoming extraction!
After dinner we all gathered for a quick group meeting and I wrangled everyone in to a group photo!
The best part was walking out to the open field and seeing all the stars. I couldn't believe how many you can see. It was a sight of beauty. You can see the entire milky way! We saw quite a few bats that started dive bombing us, which of course I found cool!
Another game of uno and off to bed.
-Note of the trip to the lake. I would say walking in there steps to the well was what has so far made my trip. Being able to actually see what these children have to do is amazing.
I also love it that all the kids call us Auntie :)
The verse Trevor read at church:
Matthew 5: 16 Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
This meant so much because their light is their smiles, and they shine right through all the bad stuff and straight to your heart!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
African Rain
20 Feb 2011 3:23am
African Rain!
We woke up this morning to the sound of rain on the tin roof. So excited we all peeked out to smell the beautiful smell of fresh dewy rain. Some of us girls ran out the front door to dance in the rain, just to marvel in God's wonder!
I just remembered another thing we heard about God's greatness. Joel was telling us what happened with the well. A few weeks ago it stopped working because of iron build up in the pipes. They all needed to be replaced. But since the well supplies the entire orphanage with water at 20-30 liters per child, per day, they needed an alternative. But God had already provided. With out seeing rain for awhile, the day before the well broke it rained , and they have rain catchers in these big containers, they were able to have enough water for the time it took the well to be fixed!
Talking about the well, we visited it quite often yesterday. Each one of the children pump and fill two 10 liter jerry cans for their daily use, everyday!!! We jumped in to help, wow it is very tiring, and we hardly filled one! You have to pump the handle from one end and it pulls the water from the ground and drips it over a filtration system to try and clean the water as much as possible. Than goes through small spout for the kids to fill the jerry cans with.
These are you children filling these cans and carrying them. We pumped and got tired very fast. They say us Americans have no stamina, so true! When they have American workers they always give up first!
African Rain!
We woke up this morning to the sound of rain on the tin roof. So excited we all peeked out to smell the beautiful smell of fresh dewy rain. Some of us girls ran out the front door to dance in the rain, just to marvel in God's wonder!
I just remembered another thing we heard about God's greatness. Joel was telling us what happened with the well. A few weeks ago it stopped working because of iron build up in the pipes. They all needed to be replaced. But since the well supplies the entire orphanage with water at 20-30 liters per child, per day, they needed an alternative. But God had already provided. With out seeing rain for awhile, the day before the well broke it rained , and they have rain catchers in these big containers, they were able to have enough water for the time it took the well to be fixed!
Talking about the well, we visited it quite often yesterday. Each one of the children pump and fill two 10 liter jerry cans for their daily use, everyday!!! We jumped in to help, wow it is very tiring, and we hardly filled one! You have to pump the handle from one end and it pulls the water from the ground and drips it over a filtration system to try and clean the water as much as possible. Than goes through small spout for the kids to fill the jerry cans with.
These are you children filling these cans and carrying them. We pumped and got tired very fast. They say us Americans have no stamina, so true! When they have American workers they always give up first!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Fred's Story
19-Feb-2011 9:08pm
Where do I begin?
First let me tell you a story that Pastor Fred just told us:
Today is Saturday and Thursday he went to the Village of Bulanga, he was just driving by when he saw a large crowd forming around a latrine (public bathroom). He pulled over to see the commotion and was told there was a baby in the hole. They pulled out a flashlight and in the feces is sure enough a baby, crying. They had to pull the latrine apart very carefully to not have the mud floor collapse on the baby. Then someone climbed in and brought the baby out. Than they learned the story...
Church and riding Emu's tomorrow!
Where do I begin?
First let me tell you a story that Pastor Fred just told us:
Today is Saturday and Thursday he went to the Village of Bulanga, he was just driving by when he saw a large crowd forming around a latrine (public bathroom). He pulled over to see the commotion and was told there was a baby in the hole. They pulled out a flashlight and in the feces is sure enough a baby, crying. They had to pull the latrine apart very carefully to not have the mud floor collapse on the baby. Then someone climbed in and brought the baby out. Than they learned the story...
The mother was homeless and this man took her in, he said if your pregnant (with another mans baby) and give birth in this house I will kill you. Afraid for her life and home she gave birth in the latrine, hoping the baby would die in there. He was in the hole for 18 hours before they got him out.
After the village found out about her, they all started running after her with knives and machetes to kill her. The police stepped in and put her under custody.
The baby is at the hospital getting checked out and should arrive in the orphanage tomorrow.
What a way of miracles happening. The woman that found the baby still crying and Fred just happened to be there.
So the baby will live in the orphanage. First infant, but will still need a sponsor.
(Fast forward to present day, since I didn't journal this, the baby didn't make it, his intestines and liver were consumed by maggots from the feces. He lived for 11 days. So sad)
__________________________________________________________________________
Now for the travel of how we got here.
Woke up Saturday morning, the team met for a great breakfast of fresh fruit and toast.
Than off to what we thought was supposed to be a 8 hour drive to be presently surprised with only around 4 after stops.
We went first to exchange our money from dollars to shillings.
2 banks were closed due to the elections so our guide Robert (Fred's brother) found us a guy to exchange them for us.
May sound scary at first but great experience, for we had to walk through Kampala to find him.
Not sure how to explain how it was, very interesting we were scared at first to take photos cause everyone is already staring at a group of white people, also referred to as mzungu. We took our exchange man back to the van to do what felt like an illegal drug deal! haha but it was really interesting.
Than we headed off to the equator. We stopped got our photos on each point and than went shopping. Now that was fun! Such interesting crafted items. We picked up a few gifts than headed off to Masaka for lunch.
After lunch we had 1 1/2 hour drive left to the village. So great driving by everyone, they are so warm and inviting everyone smiles and waves.
When we arrived in the Rakai District we knew it! The road ended and turn in to what we now know is the "Ugandan Back rub".
When we pulled into HCCP it was amazing and exciting to see the children come running to our van, they started singing about what a joy it is to see us.
I instantly started crying. We got off the bus and the kids come running to hug and greet you. What an amazing thing to see these children with there tattered clothing and never having the smiles leave their faces. Such beautiful faces full of life and God. We introduced ourselves, took lots of pictures, which the children love, there favorite part is looking back at the camera to see themselves. They point themselves out, laugh, get all excited and want more pictures.
We brought out a few soccer balls and they went crazy.
We met Joel, which is from Indiana he has been here for one month and staying til April 1st. He has been helping with farming. He came to HCCP to find more spirituality connection and has found that through the Pastor and the children.
We got a tour of the land, wow can't believe he just started this in 2005, and has so many buildings and amazing things! We saw the library we all raised the money to build, it is huge but very empty. We found out it will cost another $10,000 to fill with books!
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| Kitchen |
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| Cafeteria |
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| The Library |
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| The School Rooms |
After a great meal of fruit, rice, beans, avocado, and tomatoes we all settled in for some group talk about God's vision on this mission.
After preparing for bed, some of us played a game of Uno with Joel and Fred's sister Sylvia. So much fun, felt like we were camping. Now in my bottom bunk surrounded by my mosquito net and my headlamp on during "lights out".
Okay hands cramped.
Church and riding Emu's tomorrow!
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| Handing out the soccer balls |
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| Playing Uno |
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