Ok, so I’m not actually going to Australia, the real down under, but I’m going to the southern most country in Africa, so it’s the African down under. That’s right, it’s official. I’m being sent to South Africa for more tests. As of right now, I’m doing just ok. I actually had a really good weekend until Sunday night, when I passed a kidney stone with the oh-so-powerful extra strength Ibuprofen. Yeah, in case you didn’t get that sarcasm, the Ibuprofen didn’t do anything but I survived. I went to the clinic yesterday, where they scanned my abdomen and showed me a nice picture of the rock that is slowly making its way through my urinary tract. The scan specialist and I actually have a relationship now because I’ve been going there so often. In fact, when she found the stone, she just started laughing and pointed it out to me. She asked my why they were so fond of me, to which I was thinking that the feeling is definitely not mutual. All I can say is that it’s not fair that I should have to go through pain that is supposed to be near to that of birthing a child and all I get is a stupid rock. What the heck am I supposed to do with a rock that is obviously too small to use as a weapon and would probably disintegrate upon contact? Anyway, I’m being shipped of on Thursday morning and I don’t have a date of return yet. Hopefully, they will be able to remove any more kidney stones that may be inhabiting my body and fix any other things that have decided to be difficult.
Ok, now for the more fun parts of the weekend. There was a Jica-PC event in Masaka this past weekend that was arranged and hosted by the volunteers. Jica is a Japanese volunteer organization that is very similar to PC. There are probably as many Jica volunteers in country as PCVs. On Saturday morning, there was a football (soccer) match. It was the most fun I’ve had in a while!! As someone who hasn’t been active for the past three weeks, I was a little nervous I’d be on the field for all of a minute before my lungs gave out. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that my lungs were working pretty well and I was able to play in both halves of the games (not the whole time of course, come on, let’s be realistic here). For some of the time that I wasn’t playing, I acted as a ref. It’s always nice to have a whistle of power! After the football game, we played American football, powder puff style. I was QB, which BTW is a very stressful position to play, with people running at you while you have to find someone who’s open to throw the ball too and hope that the other team doesn’t realize that you tend to throw it to the same area every single time because you’re too stressed out to switch it up. The final sport of the day was baseball. I was going to sit this one out, and had even bathed, but I felt like they needed a left hander with no glove and a possible hand-eye coordination handicap. While we dominated football, the Jica’s dominated us in baseball. I was barefoot and the first time I ran to first base, I slipped, fell on my back and slid into the base. I like to think that from a distance, it looked like I purposely slid into the base in a cool, calm and collected way. In fact, I’m pretty sure that’s how it happened; no way I fell, what with all the grace I posses! The day ended with a dance party. I did my thing on the dance floor and then proceeded to die around midnight or one (which is about 4 hours past my usual bedtime; ask any PCV and they will tell you that they are in bed by 8:30pm). I died because my body severely rejected and punished me for all the activity. I was sore for a couple of days and barely able to move. However, it was totally worth it and I’d do it again!! On Sunday, I just watched the ultimate frisbee game and proceeded to sun burn my forehead and nose. Yeah, apparently I still haven’t learned the importance applying sunscreen in an equitorial region. So, my nose is peeling, which is really annoying and slightly gross.
So, that’s what’s been happening/is happening now. Hopefully, I’ll get to a computer before Christmas, but if not, MERRY, MERRY CHRISTMASS!!! (or as we say it here, HAPPY CHRISTMAS!) Enjoy the snow if you have it and listen to many Christmas songs : ) Love and miss you guys! TTFN!!
~Rachael
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Good Food and exteneded Kampala Holiday
Hello All! This is me updating my blog before you think I’ve been swallowed up. So, I have good things and some not so good things but, no worries, everything will be A-OK!
First, I had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I celebrated it in Tororo with ~20 other volunteers. We had the magnificent feast on the Saturday following the actual holiday. I made apple pie, which is a holiday classic and tradition. There was no pie pan to be found, so my pie was actually baked in a square, glass casserole dish. Even though it was not round, the pie was very yummy. All the volunteers contributed a dish, so we had quite a feast. The final count was (homemade) mac-and-cheese, fried chicken, Amish bread, stuffing, mashed sweet potatoes, mashed irish (regular) potatoes, vegetable kabobs, vegetable medley (I helped to cut the carrots! And then lied when they asked if I had washed them… they looked clean enough and nobody got sick!), and pumpkin-apple soup (absolutely delicious, it tasted almost like cider). Then, there was the dessert table. I had cheated and already used my second stomach, which most of you know I reserve for desserts, to get a second plate of mac-and-cheese, so I was bursting at the seams. However, Thanksgiving is all about eating until you want to die and then eating a little bit more until you actually die or fall into a food coma. Oh yeah, and being thankful too : ) Besides, one cannot pass up homemade desserts in this country because they are very few, far between and the smell alone makes you lose control. So, our dessert table had cheesecake with chocolate drizzled on it, apple pie, cherry pie, chocolate cake, brownies, frosting, and banana pudding with dolce de leche (which I’m pretty sure is French for caramel) topping. And, some very nice sangria was made, where I also helped in cutting the fruit for it. All in all, it felt like Thanksgiving. Everybody was in the kitchen, cooking, helping, washing or shouting. I couldn’t have asked for more and I’m very thankful for all the friends that I’ve made here. They have, truly, become my second family.
The term has officially ended and all my girls are back home for holiday. I gave my exams and graded them all before I had to go to Kampala. After grading them, and comparing them to the beginning of term exams, I was a little disappointed at first because they were a bit lower. I thought that maybe I hadn’t spent enough time teaching or that I had gone to fast. However, I ran into one of the students in my S1 math class. She asked me what the high score was and I told her. She was very impressed and said, “Well taught.” And that was all it took to lift me out of my funk. Really, the scores and the average of the students are not, and should not, be the only indicator of success. My girls are getting scores that they hadn’t gotten before. The high score in my class is higher than the average. I should be happy that the girls are really and truly trying. They are now comfortable enough with me that they ask questions when they don’t understand, as opposed to nodding absently. I have more girls participating in class then when I first began. So, even though the scores aren’t what I hoped for, this last term was still a success. I’m trying my best and so are the girls and that’s really all you can ask.
So, that’s the good stuff, now for the not so good. I’ve actually been in Kampala for the last week and a half for medical reasons. I originally came the weekend of the 21st to cheer people on in the annual Kampala marathon. The following Monday, I went to the PCMO (PC nurses) to get checked out because I had been having kidney pains. Now, I just had a UTI at the end of October, so I was expecting to just be given the drugs and go on my merry little way. That, however, was not meant to be. I will not go into the details because I don’t think you all are interested in the specificities of my body functions, but it was not a UTI and the pain in the kidneys has noticeably increased. But, they still do not know what it is. This, combined with a blood test and the fact that I have peed the entire rainbow (except for the most beloved colour yellow!) means that I am most likely (~90%) being sent to South Africa for more tests. Now, there’s no need to worry. Hopefully, I will be back here for Christmas, but I just wanted to give a general FYI. So, the good thing is that I get to tick another country off my list and I can investigate World Cup things.
So, that is what’s happening right now. I’ll let you all know if something changes but, I’m not dying and beside the kidney tenderness, I don’t feel sick at all. Hope you all enjoyed Black Friday shopping! As always, miss and love you all!!!
~Rachael
First, I had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I celebrated it in Tororo with ~20 other volunteers. We had the magnificent feast on the Saturday following the actual holiday. I made apple pie, which is a holiday classic and tradition. There was no pie pan to be found, so my pie was actually baked in a square, glass casserole dish. Even though it was not round, the pie was very yummy. All the volunteers contributed a dish, so we had quite a feast. The final count was (homemade) mac-and-cheese, fried chicken, Amish bread, stuffing, mashed sweet potatoes, mashed irish (regular) potatoes, vegetable kabobs, vegetable medley (I helped to cut the carrots! And then lied when they asked if I had washed them… they looked clean enough and nobody got sick!), and pumpkin-apple soup (absolutely delicious, it tasted almost like cider). Then, there was the dessert table. I had cheated and already used my second stomach, which most of you know I reserve for desserts, to get a second plate of mac-and-cheese, so I was bursting at the seams. However, Thanksgiving is all about eating until you want to die and then eating a little bit more until you actually die or fall into a food coma. Oh yeah, and being thankful too : ) Besides, one cannot pass up homemade desserts in this country because they are very few, far between and the smell alone makes you lose control. So, our dessert table had cheesecake with chocolate drizzled on it, apple pie, cherry pie, chocolate cake, brownies, frosting, and banana pudding with dolce de leche (which I’m pretty sure is French for caramel) topping. And, some very nice sangria was made, where I also helped in cutting the fruit for it. All in all, it felt like Thanksgiving. Everybody was in the kitchen, cooking, helping, washing or shouting. I couldn’t have asked for more and I’m very thankful for all the friends that I’ve made here. They have, truly, become my second family.
The term has officially ended and all my girls are back home for holiday. I gave my exams and graded them all before I had to go to Kampala. After grading them, and comparing them to the beginning of term exams, I was a little disappointed at first because they were a bit lower. I thought that maybe I hadn’t spent enough time teaching or that I had gone to fast. However, I ran into one of the students in my S1 math class. She asked me what the high score was and I told her. She was very impressed and said, “Well taught.” And that was all it took to lift me out of my funk. Really, the scores and the average of the students are not, and should not, be the only indicator of success. My girls are getting scores that they hadn’t gotten before. The high score in my class is higher than the average. I should be happy that the girls are really and truly trying. They are now comfortable enough with me that they ask questions when they don’t understand, as opposed to nodding absently. I have more girls participating in class then when I first began. So, even though the scores aren’t what I hoped for, this last term was still a success. I’m trying my best and so are the girls and that’s really all you can ask.
So, that’s the good stuff, now for the not so good. I’ve actually been in Kampala for the last week and a half for medical reasons. I originally came the weekend of the 21st to cheer people on in the annual Kampala marathon. The following Monday, I went to the PCMO (PC nurses) to get checked out because I had been having kidney pains. Now, I just had a UTI at the end of October, so I was expecting to just be given the drugs and go on my merry little way. That, however, was not meant to be. I will not go into the details because I don’t think you all are interested in the specificities of my body functions, but it was not a UTI and the pain in the kidneys has noticeably increased. But, they still do not know what it is. This, combined with a blood test and the fact that I have peed the entire rainbow (except for the most beloved colour yellow!) means that I am most likely (~90%) being sent to South Africa for more tests. Now, there’s no need to worry. Hopefully, I will be back here for Christmas, but I just wanted to give a general FYI. So, the good thing is that I get to tick another country off my list and I can investigate World Cup things.
So, that is what’s happening right now. I’ll let you all know if something changes but, I’m not dying and beside the kidney tenderness, I don’t feel sick at all. Hope you all enjoyed Black Friday shopping! As always, miss and love you all!!!
~Rachael
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Swine Flu, Hannah Montana and Cramped Legs
Hello to all! I know I've been bad in updating lately, but I'm here and ready to impress you with all the exciting happenings of my life the past month and a half. Ok, maybe not so much on the exciting side, but at least vaguely interesting : )
Something interesting: Swine Flu has started making a dent in Uganda. I know there have a been a lot of people infected with it in the States already, but it is just beginning to get a foot hold here. And, people are terrified! I think it's more because of lack of information about what actually happens upon infection, than of the flu itself. Anyway, the government has been trying to quarantine it to the few spots that the virus has managed to make itself known. This has met with limited success. There were two schools that became infected with it outside of the initial infected area. As a result, all visitation days were cancelled, which caused major difficulties. A large number of students attend boarding schools, meaning they are at school the entire term and only see their families during visitation days, if then. These are important days not only because the students can see a family member but also because they are re-supplied for the rest of the term: pocket money, snacks, essentials (toothpaste, pads, soap) and school fees, among others. As a result of the decree, students were somewhat panicked because they had to make due with the little they had and school were panicked because they were without means of getting owed money. Without the money, some schools may have to close early because they don't have the means of taking care of the students (aka food). It was interesting to me because many of the problems that arose as a result of the canceled visitation days would never have occurred to me. It just shows how one difference can have many repecussions.
The last week of October, I had Life Skills training in Kampala. We were told to bring a counter part from site, so I brought a fellow teacher, Madame Kwaga Godia. I chose her especially because she's an assertive, smart and opinionated woman, whom I thought would get the most out of the training and be most likely to want to use what we learn at our school. I should probably explain what life skills means before going into the details of the training. Basically, when PCVs talks about life skills, we're talking about giving people the ability to use the knowledge and resources available to them to lead a healthy, positive lifestyle. One of the big problems here is not the lack of knowledge, though that can be a contributing factor, but the inability to use the knowledge to make good decisions. If you ask any student about living healthy while in school, they will spout off a whole list things to do or avoid: delay sex until marriage, don't accept gifts, HIV/AIDS kills, complete you studies etc. However, if you were to ask, what would you do if your boyfriend pressures you for sex? Or can you get HIV/AIDS through kissing? Many students would not know. They have a list of facts that have been pushed on them since primary school, but the great majority of them have no idea how to connect the facts with their actual life. The Life Skills Manual, which is made by PC and is an excellent, excellent resource, has a variety of interactive game and activities that tries to bridge this gap. It tells stories culturally, so the target group (primary/secondary students, youths, etc.) understand and asks questions that forces them to think instead of memorize and apply instead of recite. During the training, specific activities were chosen out of the book and the volunteers, with their counterparts, did them. The first day was led by the facilitators and the rest of the week, each of the sessions was led by a different PCV and their counterpart. Godia and I did a session on Danger Signs and rape. It was an interesting session because the Ugandan and American takes on rape are different, both in the judicial sense and cultural sense. For example, what we call statutory rape they call defilement. Here, if someone is actually convicted (which happens rarely), rape is life imprisonment and defilement is death sentence. Yes, an intense subject but enlightening as well. Understanding how things are viewed differently here than in America is an important step in adapting to life. Godia and I each got a copy of the Life Skills Manual and are excited about doing activities at our school.
In the middle of training, Wednesday, we had a Halloween celebration, with a rockstar theme. It was aaawesome! I was dressed as (drumroll please) Hannah Montana! Yeah, I know you all are very surprised at my choice of costume but I like to keep it real. As you may imagine, it was impossible to find a blond wig in this country, so I ended up with pieces of yellow yarn arranged on my head in what I thought was a passable wig. However, upon picture inspection the next day, it was concluded that I looked more like an incomplete, color challenged Raggedy Ann doll. Oh well, I give myself Kudos for tryin'!! Also, Celeste and I were in charge of the music for the night and accepted our DJing post with gusto. On the whole, I'm going to say that our music stylings were highly appreciated and any negative comments were conveniently drowned out by the playing music.
At the end of training, I stayed in Kampala for a few days with my engaged neighbors, Nulu and Hussein. In Uganda, there are several steps that are taken before two people are happily wedded. They each need to be introduced to their families (informally first), the bride price needs to be decided, the dates for the introduction and wedding ceremony agreed upon and then that actual ceremonies need to take place. It is a long, and somewhat laborious, process. I will explain later what happens during the introduction ceremony, but for right now, just know that it needs to take place before there can be a traditional wedding. On the weekend following training, I was invited to attend the meeting that would decide the dates of the introduction and wedding. Hussein's family was supposed to arrive at 1pm (didn't get there until 2:30pm) and Nulu's family spent the whole day cooking. I'm happy to say that I earned my keep and peeled matooke, helped with fruit salad and with making juice. During the actual meeting, which was in Runyolee, I sat on the floor, listened for the occasional English world and tried not to fidget too much. However, the floor is a most uncomfortable place to sit for 2½ hours, so there was a lot of adjusting of the legs whenever they fell asleep, which was quite often. Eventually, I sat cross legged, even though I wasn't sure if that was culturally appropriate. However, since I wasn't flashing anybody and none of the men, all of whom got to have chairs, responded to my mental frustrations and cursings by offering me one, I figured it was ok. In the end, January 10th was decided as the date for both ceremonies and we ended the meeting by stuffing ourselves silly. So, on January 10th, I'll be going to my first Ugandan introduction and wedding.
Upon returning from Kampala, I finished teaching my classes. I use “finish” in a loose interpretation of the word. It was more like I was forced to stop teaching because of the end of term exams. I am far from finished with my subjects and my only goal next year is to have them caught up! So, right now, the students are taking exams and I am contemplating how I'm going to spend my two months (!) of holiday. That is a lot of Rachael time and, as entertaining as I know I can be, I will eventually get tired of having only myself as company. I know. Hard to believe but, trust me, it will happen. So, I'm planning on doing a lot of traveling around Uganda during holiday. There are a lot of PCVs spread throughout the country, so it'll be a nice little adventure. I'll be celebrating Thanksgiving that weekend in Tororo. There's going to be a nice group of us here and I am very excited about the food prospects. I predict it'll be the best meal I've had since getting to Uganda. Not that I'm anticipating too much : ) Personally, I'll be making apple pie. I know it's a big leap, especially considering my cooking history, but you'll be happy to know I'll have access to a toaster oven and will be supervised. So, no fires in the kitchen!
That's all I've got for now! I promise to make a better effort at keeping you all informed of the going ons over here. Love and miss you all and Happy early Thanksgiving!!
~Rachael
PS- Lauren, I got your card and I laugh everytime I open it! You are very much forgiven and thanks for making my day a little more fun : )
Something interesting: Swine Flu has started making a dent in Uganda. I know there have a been a lot of people infected with it in the States already, but it is just beginning to get a foot hold here. And, people are terrified! I think it's more because of lack of information about what actually happens upon infection, than of the flu itself. Anyway, the government has been trying to quarantine it to the few spots that the virus has managed to make itself known. This has met with limited success. There were two schools that became infected with it outside of the initial infected area. As a result, all visitation days were cancelled, which caused major difficulties. A large number of students attend boarding schools, meaning they are at school the entire term and only see their families during visitation days, if then. These are important days not only because the students can see a family member but also because they are re-supplied for the rest of the term: pocket money, snacks, essentials (toothpaste, pads, soap) and school fees, among others. As a result of the decree, students were somewhat panicked because they had to make due with the little they had and school were panicked because they were without means of getting owed money. Without the money, some schools may have to close early because they don't have the means of taking care of the students (aka food). It was interesting to me because many of the problems that arose as a result of the canceled visitation days would never have occurred to me. It just shows how one difference can have many repecussions.
The last week of October, I had Life Skills training in Kampala. We were told to bring a counter part from site, so I brought a fellow teacher, Madame Kwaga Godia. I chose her especially because she's an assertive, smart and opinionated woman, whom I thought would get the most out of the training and be most likely to want to use what we learn at our school. I should probably explain what life skills means before going into the details of the training. Basically, when PCVs talks about life skills, we're talking about giving people the ability to use the knowledge and resources available to them to lead a healthy, positive lifestyle. One of the big problems here is not the lack of knowledge, though that can be a contributing factor, but the inability to use the knowledge to make good decisions. If you ask any student about living healthy while in school, they will spout off a whole list things to do or avoid: delay sex until marriage, don't accept gifts, HIV/AIDS kills, complete you studies etc. However, if you were to ask, what would you do if your boyfriend pressures you for sex? Or can you get HIV/AIDS through kissing? Many students would not know. They have a list of facts that have been pushed on them since primary school, but the great majority of them have no idea how to connect the facts with their actual life. The Life Skills Manual, which is made by PC and is an excellent, excellent resource, has a variety of interactive game and activities that tries to bridge this gap. It tells stories culturally, so the target group (primary/secondary students, youths, etc.) understand and asks questions that forces them to think instead of memorize and apply instead of recite. During the training, specific activities were chosen out of the book and the volunteers, with their counterparts, did them. The first day was led by the facilitators and the rest of the week, each of the sessions was led by a different PCV and their counterpart. Godia and I did a session on Danger Signs and rape. It was an interesting session because the Ugandan and American takes on rape are different, both in the judicial sense and cultural sense. For example, what we call statutory rape they call defilement. Here, if someone is actually convicted (which happens rarely), rape is life imprisonment and defilement is death sentence. Yes, an intense subject but enlightening as well. Understanding how things are viewed differently here than in America is an important step in adapting to life. Godia and I each got a copy of the Life Skills Manual and are excited about doing activities at our school.
In the middle of training, Wednesday, we had a Halloween celebration, with a rockstar theme. It was aaawesome! I was dressed as (drumroll please) Hannah Montana! Yeah, I know you all are very surprised at my choice of costume but I like to keep it real. As you may imagine, it was impossible to find a blond wig in this country, so I ended up with pieces of yellow yarn arranged on my head in what I thought was a passable wig. However, upon picture inspection the next day, it was concluded that I looked more like an incomplete, color challenged Raggedy Ann doll. Oh well, I give myself Kudos for tryin'!! Also, Celeste and I were in charge of the music for the night and accepted our DJing post with gusto. On the whole, I'm going to say that our music stylings were highly appreciated and any negative comments were conveniently drowned out by the playing music.
At the end of training, I stayed in Kampala for a few days with my engaged neighbors, Nulu and Hussein. In Uganda, there are several steps that are taken before two people are happily wedded. They each need to be introduced to their families (informally first), the bride price needs to be decided, the dates for the introduction and wedding ceremony agreed upon and then that actual ceremonies need to take place. It is a long, and somewhat laborious, process. I will explain later what happens during the introduction ceremony, but for right now, just know that it needs to take place before there can be a traditional wedding. On the weekend following training, I was invited to attend the meeting that would decide the dates of the introduction and wedding. Hussein's family was supposed to arrive at 1pm (didn't get there until 2:30pm) and Nulu's family spent the whole day cooking. I'm happy to say that I earned my keep and peeled matooke, helped with fruit salad and with making juice. During the actual meeting, which was in Runyolee, I sat on the floor, listened for the occasional English world and tried not to fidget too much. However, the floor is a most uncomfortable place to sit for 2½ hours, so there was a lot of adjusting of the legs whenever they fell asleep, which was quite often. Eventually, I sat cross legged, even though I wasn't sure if that was culturally appropriate. However, since I wasn't flashing anybody and none of the men, all of whom got to have chairs, responded to my mental frustrations and cursings by offering me one, I figured it was ok. In the end, January 10th was decided as the date for both ceremonies and we ended the meeting by stuffing ourselves silly. So, on January 10th, I'll be going to my first Ugandan introduction and wedding.
Upon returning from Kampala, I finished teaching my classes. I use “finish” in a loose interpretation of the word. It was more like I was forced to stop teaching because of the end of term exams. I am far from finished with my subjects and my only goal next year is to have them caught up! So, right now, the students are taking exams and I am contemplating how I'm going to spend my two months (!) of holiday. That is a lot of Rachael time and, as entertaining as I know I can be, I will eventually get tired of having only myself as company. I know. Hard to believe but, trust me, it will happen. So, I'm planning on doing a lot of traveling around Uganda during holiday. There are a lot of PCVs spread throughout the country, so it'll be a nice little adventure. I'll be celebrating Thanksgiving that weekend in Tororo. There's going to be a nice group of us here and I am very excited about the food prospects. I predict it'll be the best meal I've had since getting to Uganda. Not that I'm anticipating too much : ) Personally, I'll be making apple pie. I know it's a big leap, especially considering my cooking history, but you'll be happy to know I'll have access to a toaster oven and will be supervised. So, no fires in the kitchen!
That's all I've got for now! I promise to make a better effort at keeping you all informed of the going ons over here. Love and miss you all and Happy early Thanksgiving!!
~Rachael
PS- Lauren, I got your card and I laugh everytime I open it! You are very much forgiven and thanks for making my day a little more fun : )
Friday, October 9, 2009
Dedicated to my sister, Shannon (she knows why!)
Hey all, I just wanted to give you my new phone number: 075-708-6861. The same applies to this one as the last. You need to put in the country code, which is 011256, and then my phone number, omitting the first zero. I have a new number becuase my other phone was either lost or stolen. I'm not 100% sure which, but I'm more inclined toward the stolen. It was a brand new phone!! Seriously. My old phone had flew out of my bag when I was riding to school and got a crack in the screen. So, I decided to buy a new one, which I did in Tororo. However, it didn't even make it back to my town! In less than 4 hours, my phone was gone and I was forced to buy a new sim card and return to my battered one. So, in protest, I've decided not to buy another phone until Christmas. Oh yes, this will teach a lesson to anybody who tries to steal my phone, because it's not me who's suffering with this peice of junk, but anybody who decides to take it. Hahaha! Haha! Ha.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
From me to you: Pics!!!
Alright, here are some pictures for those of you who have been bugging me. These are from training. The next batch will be more recent ones from site. I hope this will be enough for you for now. Enjoy!!
Hanging out at Wakiso Gardens, which was one of two spots we fled to after training so we wouldn't go insane.
Sourting out g-nuts for eventual concumption.
Girls' Night Out!! Included chick flick and lots of yummy, sweet, semi-American food. Oh, yeah!!
We went to visit the source of the Nile in Jinja. I made sure to touch it, risking contracting Schisto in the process, but it was totally worth it because I can say I've touched the Nile now : )
Autumn brought a tent with her. We decided it was a good time to put it together. Keep in mind that this is a two and a half person tent. Woo!
Me and Miranda listening to awesome music on my ipod in Wakiso.
Hanging out at Wakiso Gardens, which was one of two spots we fled to after training so we wouldn't go insane.
Sourting out g-nuts for eventual concumption.
Girls' Night Out!! Included chick flick and lots of yummy, sweet, semi-American food. Oh, yeah!!
We went to visit the source of the Nile in Jinja. I made sure to touch it, risking contracting Schisto in the process, but it was totally worth it because I can say I've touched the Nile now : )
Autumn brought a tent with her. We decided it was a good time to put it together. Keep in mind that this is a two and a half person tent. Woo!
Me and Miranda listening to awesome music on my ipod in Wakiso.
Sweet & Sour, Salty & Sweet, Riots & Relaxation
Hey al, it's been awhile but I'm back after an interesting couple of past weeks.
First, I'll address the situation in Uganda, more specifically Kampal. I'm not sure how many of you keep up with events in Uganda, but a few weeks ago (starting Thursday, Sept. 10)there were riots in Kampala. Let me begin by explainging the cause. Uganda is a tribal nation. People will tell you what tribe they're from before telling you that they're Ugandan. One of the largest tribes, if not the largest, are the Bugandans. The Bugandans are situated in central Uganda, with their centre in Kampala. They also have a King, the Kabaka. The Kabaka was scheduled to visit Kayunga, which is part of the Baganda Kingdom, on Sat., Sept. 12. He was going there to take part in a Bugandan anual ceremony. On Thursday, President Musevini prohibited the Kabaka from visiting the region, citing security reasons. The Kabaka wanted to continue with his visit, arguing that he is still a citizen of Uganda, therefore, has the right to travel wherever he wanted. Musevini refused, blocked the road and all hell broke loose. The city was paralyzed for four days. The riots were not restricted to the city center. They were spread over several districts (Wakiso, Kayunga, Masaka, Kampala, Mukono amoung others) The rioters set fires, burned down a police station, destroyed all sorts of property (cars, taxis, businesses) and looted. The second or third day, they targeted the Indian businesses and completely destroyed some of them. There was nothing going in or out of Kampala. Taxi drivers had turned around, or just completely abandoned their vehicles to run to safety. The riots on Thursday started out of nowhere; everyone was taken by surprise. The ones on Saturday were more planned. People started shooting. There were some volunteers who were caught up in the middle of it. They had been in Kampala for one reason or another and were just around when people lost it. PC was able to get everyone out safely and I won't go into detail about what they had to get through, because it's not my story to tell. The police were called in to restore order, which did not really help. They used live ammunition on the rioters and the brutality was... a lot. I was not in Kamapala. I had been planning on going there on Friday, for a soccer game that Saturday. However, the game was cancelled, so I did not end up going. Instead, I was on the other side of the country, in Tororo. On Friday, all PCVs were put on standfast, whihch meant that no traveling was allowed. So, I was stuck in Tororo from Friday until Monday, when I got permission to return to site. By Sunday, the rioters had stopped and there was a relative calm in Kampala. As of now, Kampala is back to normal, though as I understand it, there is a heavy police presence. I haven't actually been to Kampala since the riots. So, the aftermath: over 600 people have been arrested for rioting, with 29 of them being charged with treason. These 29 are the people that set the police station and several cars on fire. Musevini addressed the Parliament and said that he supported the reaction of the police. People have the right to defend their lives, therefore the use of live bullets was not against the constitution. He and the Kabaka are going to try and talk about it. From what I understand, the two of them are constantly at each others throats because each is a threat to the others power. It's the political vs the cultural leader. As far as Kayunga goes, I think it was a test by Musevini to assert his authority over the Kabaka, which resulted in disaster.
So, that's what happened. I just thought it was important for you all to be informed. I want you to know what I'm doing, but also what I'm living with or through. Part of that is, inevitably, political. I'm hoping I won't have to write updates like this too often. Also, I'm really hoping you don't freak out too much! Really, everything is ok. I'm safe and PC has good policies and quick reaction times. Besides, I live in the bush, so I'm pretty secluded from the hot spots. The biggest worry I have is how to get to the only market in town that sells chocolate before it closes.
Right now, I'm in Tororo again. This time, I'm taking meds for parasites. Since last Friday, I've been having stomach cramps, amoung other things. So, I got here Friday afternoon and took some drugs that will, hopefully, kill whatever organism is invading my space and making my life difficult. I should be back to site on Tuesday.
Last weekend was the end of Ramadan, called Ed. Ed is calculated according to the moon and marks the end of fasting. There is usually a feast to celebrate. Nulu and I spent over 6 hours cooking a ton of food! At the beginning, I was cooking but then I demoted myself to washing dishes (you all can probably guess why). I did get to cut come cabbage though. And, after a couple bad starts, I kicked that cabbages butt!! When we finally got to eat, the food was excellent : )
And, to end, here's the latest cooking faux paux: I attempted to make smore the other day, by cooking the marshmellows over my gas stove. Now, you should know that smores are a delicacy because one, maybe two, stores in the entire country sell marshmallows, so getting my hands on thosewas tricky. Well, I roasted the marshmallow and put it on my biscuits (cookie/cracker) and chocolate. Then, I went to lick the fork... and branded myself! Afer blowing on it and everything. My tongue and bottom lip had an imprint of the fork on it. My lips were swollen the next couple of days as a result. Seriously, I'm not sure why the culinary gods are so against me, but they are ever busy.
And with that, I'll leave you all to your fall weather. TTFN!
~Rachael
First, I'll address the situation in Uganda, more specifically Kampal. I'm not sure how many of you keep up with events in Uganda, but a few weeks ago (starting Thursday, Sept. 10)there were riots in Kampala. Let me begin by explainging the cause. Uganda is a tribal nation. People will tell you what tribe they're from before telling you that they're Ugandan. One of the largest tribes, if not the largest, are the Bugandans. The Bugandans are situated in central Uganda, with their centre in Kampala. They also have a King, the Kabaka. The Kabaka was scheduled to visit Kayunga, which is part of the Baganda Kingdom, on Sat., Sept. 12. He was going there to take part in a Bugandan anual ceremony. On Thursday, President Musevini prohibited the Kabaka from visiting the region, citing security reasons. The Kabaka wanted to continue with his visit, arguing that he is still a citizen of Uganda, therefore, has the right to travel wherever he wanted. Musevini refused, blocked the road and all hell broke loose. The city was paralyzed for four days. The riots were not restricted to the city center. They were spread over several districts (Wakiso, Kayunga, Masaka, Kampala, Mukono amoung others) The rioters set fires, burned down a police station, destroyed all sorts of property (cars, taxis, businesses) and looted. The second or third day, they targeted the Indian businesses and completely destroyed some of them. There was nothing going in or out of Kampala. Taxi drivers had turned around, or just completely abandoned their vehicles to run to safety. The riots on Thursday started out of nowhere; everyone was taken by surprise. The ones on Saturday were more planned. People started shooting. There were some volunteers who were caught up in the middle of it. They had been in Kampala for one reason or another and were just around when people lost it. PC was able to get everyone out safely and I won't go into detail about what they had to get through, because it's not my story to tell. The police were called in to restore order, which did not really help. They used live ammunition on the rioters and the brutality was... a lot. I was not in Kamapala. I had been planning on going there on Friday, for a soccer game that Saturday. However, the game was cancelled, so I did not end up going. Instead, I was on the other side of the country, in Tororo. On Friday, all PCVs were put on standfast, whihch meant that no traveling was allowed. So, I was stuck in Tororo from Friday until Monday, when I got permission to return to site. By Sunday, the rioters had stopped and there was a relative calm in Kampala. As of now, Kampala is back to normal, though as I understand it, there is a heavy police presence. I haven't actually been to Kampala since the riots. So, the aftermath: over 600 people have been arrested for rioting, with 29 of them being charged with treason. These 29 are the people that set the police station and several cars on fire. Musevini addressed the Parliament and said that he supported the reaction of the police. People have the right to defend their lives, therefore the use of live bullets was not against the constitution. He and the Kabaka are going to try and talk about it. From what I understand, the two of them are constantly at each others throats because each is a threat to the others power. It's the political vs the cultural leader. As far as Kayunga goes, I think it was a test by Musevini to assert his authority over the Kabaka, which resulted in disaster.
So, that's what happened. I just thought it was important for you all to be informed. I want you to know what I'm doing, but also what I'm living with or through. Part of that is, inevitably, political. I'm hoping I won't have to write updates like this too often. Also, I'm really hoping you don't freak out too much! Really, everything is ok. I'm safe and PC has good policies and quick reaction times. Besides, I live in the bush, so I'm pretty secluded from the hot spots. The biggest worry I have is how to get to the only market in town that sells chocolate before it closes.
Right now, I'm in Tororo again. This time, I'm taking meds for parasites. Since last Friday, I've been having stomach cramps, amoung other things. So, I got here Friday afternoon and took some drugs that will, hopefully, kill whatever organism is invading my space and making my life difficult. I should be back to site on Tuesday.
Last weekend was the end of Ramadan, called Ed. Ed is calculated according to the moon and marks the end of fasting. There is usually a feast to celebrate. Nulu and I spent over 6 hours cooking a ton of food! At the beginning, I was cooking but then I demoted myself to washing dishes (you all can probably guess why). I did get to cut come cabbage though. And, after a couple bad starts, I kicked that cabbages butt!! When we finally got to eat, the food was excellent : )
And, to end, here's the latest cooking faux paux: I attempted to make smore the other day, by cooking the marshmellows over my gas stove. Now, you should know that smores are a delicacy because one, maybe two, stores in the entire country sell marshmallows, so getting my hands on thosewas tricky. Well, I roasted the marshmallow and put it on my biscuits (cookie/cracker) and chocolate. Then, I went to lick the fork... and branded myself! Afer blowing on it and everything. My tongue and bottom lip had an imprint of the fork on it. My lips were swollen the next couple of days as a result. Seriously, I'm not sure why the culinary gods are so against me, but they are ever busy.
And with that, I'll leave you all to your fall weather. TTFN!
~Rachael
Monday, August 17, 2009
Bday, carpel tunnel, holiday (oh yes, you read that right)
Hey all! I’ve decided that updating once a month is the best way to go around this. That’s about how often I get to the computer and enough has happened that I don’t have to worry about boring you.
We just finished the second term of school. I’ve spent the last couple of weeks giving end of term exams, grading and filling out progress reports for the students. Very, very tiresome. You all know how many students I have in each class, so imagine filling out a report for every single one of them. I know! I was convinced I had given myself carpel tunnel syndrome after the first day of writing; I could barely move my hand. The grading system here is a bit different then it is in America. As previously mentioned, there are three exams every term and these are the only things used to give a grade to the student. The exams are weighed unevenly when calculating the final grade. It’s a little different from school to school, but at ours, the end of term exam from last term was 15%, the beginning of term 5% and mid term 70%. I had to adjust mine a little, so it ended up being beginning of term 30% and the mid-term, 70%. I was, and am still, not very happy about this distribution. The students did the best on the end of term exams, which makes sense since they’ve had the entire term to adjust. Also, the end of term tests them on the subjects of the entire term. Therefore, I think it’s important that it be included in the grade for the term in which it was given. I also don’t understand why the mid-term is so heavily weighed. I think it would be more appropriate if they all had the same importance. However, there was nothing I could do except grumble to myself and make the necessary calculations. I was happy to see that my science class is doing pretty ok. The average has gone up since the beginning of term and the writing has made a slight improvement. I haven’t graded that end of term for math, so I have no diagnostic yet for them. All in all, though, I think the term went well, considering it was my first time teaching. I am excited for next term and have some ideas for extra classes I could teach. I’m not sure yet on the details, but when I know, I’ll post. Now that classes are over, I have three weeks of holiday, two of which will be spent in training… joy.
Thank you to everyone who remembered my birthday!!! It was really nice to get the messages/texts. I have to admit, I was a little worried about spending it here, since I didn’t know what to expect and I am living in the village (aka- the middle of nowhere). I went to Tororo and spent the day with Kendra, another volunteer, who recently COSed! (*sob, tear*). Since she was leaving to return to America, people were throwing her parties every which where and I went to them with her. There were Ugandans and bazungu (that would be the plural of muzungu), so it was an interesting mix. She had them sing happy birthday to me and I felt very loved. Later, we spent the night at Erin’s, who made me birthday crepes, which were superb and excellent. On Saturday, we all had lunch together and I went hope happy. All in all, it was wonderful ( :
I went to Kampala last week for a few days, to say goodbye to Kendra. While I was there, I saw my movie, which was HP 6. All I have to say is oh, wow. More different from the book than the other movies. I haven’t decided yet how I feel about it and need to see it a second time before judgment can be rendered. I do, however, love the girl they chose for Ginny. While in Kampala, I did the usual: at my way through the visit. I had my ice cream and oh-so-delicious pizza, so I was satisfied in that area. I also talked to the PCMO about allergies and sleeping problems I’ve been having lately. The allergies aren’t really surprising. Ever since landing in Uganda, my allergies have increased ten fold and I have to take something everyday for it. *sigh* Just another thing to remember. The bad side of it, though, is that my body seems to become immune whatever anti-histamine I’m using, so I have to keep switching. I’m on lucky pill type #3, so hopefully this will be the last. Hopefully… As far as sleeping goes, I’ve just been waking up at hours in which no sane, or sober, person should be awake. That, I hope, goes away soon. We all know how happy and sociable Rachael is without her sleep.
Last Friday, I had Suzuki over for lunch. She knows about my cooking history and I think she was a bit wary of the meal we made. We used the recipe she brought for rice, so I am claiming innocence over that part. It may or may not have had a taaaad too much vinegar, but one you dowsed it in soy sauce, all was well. The biscuits, which I was in charge of, came out very well, especially the first batch. The second might have been a teensey bit burned on the bottom, but once you cut that off, it was a-ok. Aunt Diane, I want you to know that I still had the marshmallow bunny you sent in the care package. That was used to make rice crispy treats, which came out fabulous, if a little pink in color. Hey, you gotta use what you have, right? In total, I think it was a successful first luncheon and I’m confident Suzuki will eat my cooking again because she likes it, not because she just that nice.
Well, that’s all for now ladies and gents. I hope all of you are doing marvelous in the states and enjoy the fall weather. We don’t have any seasons here, so I’m a little jealous of you all and the changing leaves. TTFN!
~Rachael
We just finished the second term of school. I’ve spent the last couple of weeks giving end of term exams, grading and filling out progress reports for the students. Very, very tiresome. You all know how many students I have in each class, so imagine filling out a report for every single one of them. I know! I was convinced I had given myself carpel tunnel syndrome after the first day of writing; I could barely move my hand. The grading system here is a bit different then it is in America. As previously mentioned, there are three exams every term and these are the only things used to give a grade to the student. The exams are weighed unevenly when calculating the final grade. It’s a little different from school to school, but at ours, the end of term exam from last term was 15%, the beginning of term 5% and mid term 70%. I had to adjust mine a little, so it ended up being beginning of term 30% and the mid-term, 70%. I was, and am still, not very happy about this distribution. The students did the best on the end of term exams, which makes sense since they’ve had the entire term to adjust. Also, the end of term tests them on the subjects of the entire term. Therefore, I think it’s important that it be included in the grade for the term in which it was given. I also don’t understand why the mid-term is so heavily weighed. I think it would be more appropriate if they all had the same importance. However, there was nothing I could do except grumble to myself and make the necessary calculations. I was happy to see that my science class is doing pretty ok. The average has gone up since the beginning of term and the writing has made a slight improvement. I haven’t graded that end of term for math, so I have no diagnostic yet for them. All in all, though, I think the term went well, considering it was my first time teaching. I am excited for next term and have some ideas for extra classes I could teach. I’m not sure yet on the details, but when I know, I’ll post. Now that classes are over, I have three weeks of holiday, two of which will be spent in training… joy.
Thank you to everyone who remembered my birthday!!! It was really nice to get the messages/texts. I have to admit, I was a little worried about spending it here, since I didn’t know what to expect and I am living in the village (aka- the middle of nowhere). I went to Tororo and spent the day with Kendra, another volunteer, who recently COSed! (*sob, tear*). Since she was leaving to return to America, people were throwing her parties every which where and I went to them with her. There were Ugandans and bazungu (that would be the plural of muzungu), so it was an interesting mix. She had them sing happy birthday to me and I felt very loved. Later, we spent the night at Erin’s, who made me birthday crepes, which were superb and excellent. On Saturday, we all had lunch together and I went hope happy. All in all, it was wonderful ( :
I went to Kampala last week for a few days, to say goodbye to Kendra. While I was there, I saw my movie, which was HP 6. All I have to say is oh, wow. More different from the book than the other movies. I haven’t decided yet how I feel about it and need to see it a second time before judgment can be rendered. I do, however, love the girl they chose for Ginny. While in Kampala, I did the usual: at my way through the visit. I had my ice cream and oh-so-delicious pizza, so I was satisfied in that area. I also talked to the PCMO about allergies and sleeping problems I’ve been having lately. The allergies aren’t really surprising. Ever since landing in Uganda, my allergies have increased ten fold and I have to take something everyday for it. *sigh* Just another thing to remember. The bad side of it, though, is that my body seems to become immune whatever anti-histamine I’m using, so I have to keep switching. I’m on lucky pill type #3, so hopefully this will be the last. Hopefully… As far as sleeping goes, I’ve just been waking up at hours in which no sane, or sober, person should be awake. That, I hope, goes away soon. We all know how happy and sociable Rachael is without her sleep.
Last Friday, I had Suzuki over for lunch. She knows about my cooking history and I think she was a bit wary of the meal we made. We used the recipe she brought for rice, so I am claiming innocence over that part. It may or may not have had a taaaad too much vinegar, but one you dowsed it in soy sauce, all was well. The biscuits, which I was in charge of, came out very well, especially the first batch. The second might have been a teensey bit burned on the bottom, but once you cut that off, it was a-ok. Aunt Diane, I want you to know that I still had the marshmallow bunny you sent in the care package. That was used to make rice crispy treats, which came out fabulous, if a little pink in color. Hey, you gotta use what you have, right? In total, I think it was a successful first luncheon and I’m confident Suzuki will eat my cooking again because she likes it, not because she just that nice.
Well, that’s all for now ladies and gents. I hope all of you are doing marvelous in the states and enjoy the fall weather. We don’t have any seasons here, so I’m a little jealous of you all and the changing leaves. TTFN!
~Rachael
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Blue sky+yellow sun+reflective pool= red, red Rachael
Hey all, I have made a startling discovery: there is an internet café in Busolwe!! I didn’t know of its existence until a Canadian volunteer who was here for some few weeks told me about it. That’s the good news. The bad news is that it’s kind of expensive and I’m not sure of the hours. However, this means I can check my email more often and give more regular updates.
I’m sure the majority of you are not surprised by the title of my post. Apparently, when you live on the equator, the rules for preventing sunburn change. A little lesson I will not be forgetting quickly. A few weeks ago, I went to the pool at a hotel in Tororo with another volunteer. It was a beautiful day, absolutely perfect for swimming. There were no clouds in the beautiful blue sky. *sigh* Then, after five hours of alternately swimming and lounging, my perfect pool day was destroyed. I realized that my thighs, shoulders and face were red. Red I tell you!! And not only red, but sore. I was walking as if I had just ridden a horse and when I got to Kendra’s house, where I spent the night, I layed on the floor and spent the rest of the night putting aloe on my burned, burned skin and wondering how other people were able to sunburn so many times. That stuff hurts! I now have a new found respect for those of the fair skinned. I really wasn’t sure what to do, so I just layed there and watched House on her laptop. So, I learned a valuable lesson: apparently, when you go to the pool in Uganda, you need to put on sunscreen. Well, I’m sorry but I’m still getting used to the climate here. Back in Colorado, I can go to the pool without putting on sunscreen and I’m just fine! Anyway, I’m still reaping that little episode as the skin is peeling from my legs. Just another reminder of what I should have done!
Last week, I went to Kampala for a couple of days. Yes, I’ll admit it, the sole purpose of going to Kampala was to storm PC HQ and get the mail I know they were holding for me! And guess what, 5 packages and 2 letters, BAM! So, one reason I wasn’t getting any letters is that Rachael N.H. looks like Rachelle R. (I don’t see the similarity), so they were being put in the wrong box. Also, I guess I’ve been spelling my name wrong all my life, because the label for the box reads Rachek NH... yeah, I’m not even sure where that spelling came from, but all I know is that it’s been causing me some major frustrations. I tried to correct it, but I think it looks more like Rachel, which isn’t very helpful. Anyway, I got 4 from my momma and one from Chibi! I was so excited to get the goodies and the pictures. Thank you, thank you, thank you my wife ( : Also, while I was in town, I treated myself to a movie: Transformers 2. It was awesome! We all know Optimus Prime is the shiznit, and Shia’s pretty cool too. Hey, lay off! This is the second time I’ve been to a theatre in 5 months, so I think it’s a pretty momentous occasion. Hmmm, theatre popcorn... The trip was pretty good except that the matatu got a flat tire on the way back to Tororo. We were stranded on the side of the road for over an hour until another tire was brought. Yep, just another experience with Ugandan public transport.
Last Saturday, there was a fundraising event at my school. Fundraising here is very different from fundraising in the States. Guests are invited to the school and they donate or pledge money to the school. Then, there is an auction, which is also a little different. Basically, items are bought and then sold at the auction. The price that is paid at the auction has to be greater than the original price of the item. It was a very long ceremony and it started 2 hours late because the guest of honor was 2½ hours late. It is very common for people to not keep time in Uganda. Therefore, my policy is to always have a book to read and some sort of snack. The book is to keep me from being bored in the time between when the event is supposed to start and when it actually does. The snack is to help keep my sanity because, if food is served, it’s not done until after the event is finished, no matter what time it starts.
Teacher at Mulagi Girls is going ok. Our last week of classes is next week, followed by two weeks of exams. Then, the second term is over and I get three weeks of holiday (2 of which will be spent in PC training; I’m not complaining, just saying...). I was a little thrown off by the class schedule because I though I had an extra week of teaching. I am already behind in both classes, so I’m just trying to be less behind. It is very hard to stay on top of things because classes are constantly getting cancelled for one reason or another. However, now that I’m familiar with how it works, I can plan my classes better next term.
Ok, that’s all I’ve got for now, but before I finish, I just want to give another little wishlist (fun fact: almost everything on it you can get for free by raiding the fast good places, which I don’t have here *tear*):
-packets of mustard, jelly (you can get them at Popeyes), taco bell mild sauce, McDonald’s sweet & sour and hot mustard
-mac-&-cheese cheese packets (just the cheese, I have lots of noodles)
-taco seasoning
-chex mix (so good Chibi!)
-chocolate, gummies, chocolate, gummies
-rainbow chip frosting
-drink mixes (those ones that you just pour into water bottles)
That’s all I can think of right now (you can tell where my priorities are ( : ) Also, I love getting letters, and I just sent out a bunch, so check your mailboxes. If you haven’t gotten one yet, you should definitely forward your complaint by letter and I will address it promptly. Miss you all!! TTFN-
~Rachael
I’m sure the majority of you are not surprised by the title of my post. Apparently, when you live on the equator, the rules for preventing sunburn change. A little lesson I will not be forgetting quickly. A few weeks ago, I went to the pool at a hotel in Tororo with another volunteer. It was a beautiful day, absolutely perfect for swimming. There were no clouds in the beautiful blue sky. *sigh* Then, after five hours of alternately swimming and lounging, my perfect pool day was destroyed. I realized that my thighs, shoulders and face were red. Red I tell you!! And not only red, but sore. I was walking as if I had just ridden a horse and when I got to Kendra’s house, where I spent the night, I layed on the floor and spent the rest of the night putting aloe on my burned, burned skin and wondering how other people were able to sunburn so many times. That stuff hurts! I now have a new found respect for those of the fair skinned. I really wasn’t sure what to do, so I just layed there and watched House on her laptop. So, I learned a valuable lesson: apparently, when you go to the pool in Uganda, you need to put on sunscreen. Well, I’m sorry but I’m still getting used to the climate here. Back in Colorado, I can go to the pool without putting on sunscreen and I’m just fine! Anyway, I’m still reaping that little episode as the skin is peeling from my legs. Just another reminder of what I should have done!
Last week, I went to Kampala for a couple of days. Yes, I’ll admit it, the sole purpose of going to Kampala was to storm PC HQ and get the mail I know they were holding for me! And guess what, 5 packages and 2 letters, BAM! So, one reason I wasn’t getting any letters is that Rachael N.H. looks like Rachelle R. (I don’t see the similarity), so they were being put in the wrong box. Also, I guess I’ve been spelling my name wrong all my life, because the label for the box reads Rachek NH... yeah, I’m not even sure where that spelling came from, but all I know is that it’s been causing me some major frustrations. I tried to correct it, but I think it looks more like Rachel, which isn’t very helpful. Anyway, I got 4 from my momma and one from Chibi! I was so excited to get the goodies and the pictures. Thank you, thank you, thank you my wife ( : Also, while I was in town, I treated myself to a movie: Transformers 2. It was awesome! We all know Optimus Prime is the shiznit, and Shia’s pretty cool too. Hey, lay off! This is the second time I’ve been to a theatre in 5 months, so I think it’s a pretty momentous occasion. Hmmm, theatre popcorn... The trip was pretty good except that the matatu got a flat tire on the way back to Tororo. We were stranded on the side of the road for over an hour until another tire was brought. Yep, just another experience with Ugandan public transport.
Last Saturday, there was a fundraising event at my school. Fundraising here is very different from fundraising in the States. Guests are invited to the school and they donate or pledge money to the school. Then, there is an auction, which is also a little different. Basically, items are bought and then sold at the auction. The price that is paid at the auction has to be greater than the original price of the item. It was a very long ceremony and it started 2 hours late because the guest of honor was 2½ hours late. It is very common for people to not keep time in Uganda. Therefore, my policy is to always have a book to read and some sort of snack. The book is to keep me from being bored in the time between when the event is supposed to start and when it actually does. The snack is to help keep my sanity because, if food is served, it’s not done until after the event is finished, no matter what time it starts.
Teacher at Mulagi Girls is going ok. Our last week of classes is next week, followed by two weeks of exams. Then, the second term is over and I get three weeks of holiday (2 of which will be spent in PC training; I’m not complaining, just saying...). I was a little thrown off by the class schedule because I though I had an extra week of teaching. I am already behind in both classes, so I’m just trying to be less behind. It is very hard to stay on top of things because classes are constantly getting cancelled for one reason or another. However, now that I’m familiar with how it works, I can plan my classes better next term.
Ok, that’s all I’ve got for now, but before I finish, I just want to give another little wishlist (fun fact: almost everything on it you can get for free by raiding the fast good places, which I don’t have here *tear*):
-packets of mustard, jelly (you can get them at Popeyes), taco bell mild sauce, McDonald’s sweet & sour and hot mustard
-mac-&-cheese cheese packets (just the cheese, I have lots of noodles)
-taco seasoning
-chex mix (so good Chibi!)
-chocolate, gummies, chocolate, gummies
-rainbow chip frosting
-drink mixes (those ones that you just pour into water bottles)
That’s all I can think of right now (you can tell where my priorities are ( : ) Also, I love getting letters, and I just sent out a bunch, so check your mailboxes. If you haven’t gotten one yet, you should definitely forward your complaint by letter and I will address it promptly. Miss you all!! TTFN-
~Rachael
Sunday, June 28, 2009
AVC- Oy, not another acronym
So, I have been able to get back to the computer within as couple weeks of my last update, which is good for me, because to don’t have to write as much and good for you, because you don’t have to read as much plus you don’t have to worry if I’ve died from starvation since I can’t cook.
This past week, I have been at the All Volunteers Conference, outside of Kampala. This is a big deal, since only a few countries have the funds to put one on. The conference is exactly what it sounds like: all of the volunteers in Uganda are pulled together in one place to give sessions to one another. All together, there were ~130 volunteers. In our case, we stayed at the same hotel where the sessions were held. All of the sessions were led by volunteers and addressed a variety of issues, topics, interests and ideas that were, somehow, relevant to our service and what we were doing at site. Some were geared toward education, others to economic development or maybe to health volunteers. We arrived at the hotel on Wednesday, had three days of the actual conference, and left today, Sunday to get back to site (I’m actually in Jinja right now, on my way back).
The conference was organized so that there were three sessions offered during each time slot and the volunteers could choose which ones they wanted to attend. The majority of the sessions were useful to me. I attended some on football tournaments, since I want to start a girl’s football team at my school, health clubs, gardening and youth empowerment. I think it was better that the sessions were led by fellow PCVs because they understand the difficulties that are involved in everything you do in country. They can address the challenges and solutions, of their own experiences, in creating sustainable changes in the community, integrating themselves with its members and just surviving with the day-to-day trials and tribulations that may arise as a result. I can relate to someone better when I know they’ve experienced the same frustrations I have, survived it and even come out with something they can show to the world. In addition to the sessions, it was also really cool to meat all of the other volunteers. Since being in country, the majority of volunteers I know are from my group, but there are so many other awesome people that I was missing out on and that were missing out on me because, I think we can all agree, I’m a pretty stellar individual. No, really, I am! Stop laughing at the screen!!
So, all in all, it was a pretty good week and that is all I have to report on. But, I have a good, good, good announcement! I have received mail!!!!!! I got a letter from Eric (holler bollar!) and the package from Aunt Diane. I’m gonna say she gets my favorite person of the week award, because it contained a pickle that was completely edible. Yes, I ate the pickle; yes, I drank all of the juice; and, yes, I had stomach problems for an entire day because of it. But, it was totally worth it, as always. Thank you Aunt Diana ( : So, my hope, definitely not faith but hope, has been restored to the Ugandan Postal System and I’m hoping it will get it’s act together and get me the rest of my frickin’ mail. That’s all I have for now. Miss you all and think of you often. TTFN!
~Rachael
This past week, I have been at the All Volunteers Conference, outside of Kampala. This is a big deal, since only a few countries have the funds to put one on. The conference is exactly what it sounds like: all of the volunteers in Uganda are pulled together in one place to give sessions to one another. All together, there were ~130 volunteers. In our case, we stayed at the same hotel where the sessions were held. All of the sessions were led by volunteers and addressed a variety of issues, topics, interests and ideas that were, somehow, relevant to our service and what we were doing at site. Some were geared toward education, others to economic development or maybe to health volunteers. We arrived at the hotel on Wednesday, had three days of the actual conference, and left today, Sunday to get back to site (I’m actually in Jinja right now, on my way back).
The conference was organized so that there were three sessions offered during each time slot and the volunteers could choose which ones they wanted to attend. The majority of the sessions were useful to me. I attended some on football tournaments, since I want to start a girl’s football team at my school, health clubs, gardening and youth empowerment. I think it was better that the sessions were led by fellow PCVs because they understand the difficulties that are involved in everything you do in country. They can address the challenges and solutions, of their own experiences, in creating sustainable changes in the community, integrating themselves with its members and just surviving with the day-to-day trials and tribulations that may arise as a result. I can relate to someone better when I know they’ve experienced the same frustrations I have, survived it and even come out with something they can show to the world. In addition to the sessions, it was also really cool to meat all of the other volunteers. Since being in country, the majority of volunteers I know are from my group, but there are so many other awesome people that I was missing out on and that were missing out on me because, I think we can all agree, I’m a pretty stellar individual. No, really, I am! Stop laughing at the screen!!
So, all in all, it was a pretty good week and that is all I have to report on. But, I have a good, good, good announcement! I have received mail!!!!!! I got a letter from Eric (holler bollar!) and the package from Aunt Diane. I’m gonna say she gets my favorite person of the week award, because it contained a pickle that was completely edible. Yes, I ate the pickle; yes, I drank all of the juice; and, yes, I had stomach problems for an entire day because of it. But, it was totally worth it, as always. Thank you Aunt Diana ( : So, my hope, definitely not faith but hope, has been restored to the Ugandan Postal System and I’m hoping it will get it’s act together and get me the rest of my frickin’ mail. That’s all I have for now. Miss you all and think of you often. TTFN!
~Rachael
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Taxi ride: 4000ush, computer time: 3000ush, finally getting on the internet: PRICELESS!
Hey everybody!! Just let me first set the record straight and let you all know that I am, indeed, alive and well. No misfortune has come upon me, unless you count the fact that it takes a lot of time and energy to get to a computer with any internet, reliable or not. Speaking of which, this is actually the second times that I am typing this update. I was at the computer last week and was half way finished with the post when the power went out and lost everything that I had been typing. Needless to say, I was put in a foul mood and decided to punish the computer be leaving without giving it the honor of having my retyped update. However, that meant that you all didn’t have that honor either! But, never fear, I am back and this time, it will be posted!
So, down to business, what has been going on here in the month that I’ve been MIA? Let’s see, on the second to last weekend of April, I went to Masaka to visit some other volunteers. It’s that last time I’ll be able to take any extended trips for a while because the second term has started and I’m expected to give practicals on Saturdays. Anyway, there were 5-6 of us and we basically toured the town and ate our way through the weekend. It was pretty fantastic! One of the highlights of the trip would be the jumping of the fence in order to get to Amber’s house. The gate was locked, which was good protection for the people inside, but kinda sucked for us, since we wanted to be part of the people inside. So, in a somewhat organized fashion, our bags were thrown over and we soon followed. The gate wasn’t too bad; in fact, I’d say it was very climbable. The only problems were that some of the girls were in skirts and it was dark outside. But, we all managed to get in safe and sound. More importantly, I was able to get some good photos of our stellar entrance. We also over indulged in muzungu food, which, as always, is a wonderful experience at the time of consumption, but, in the end, turns on you with a vengeance. My stomach decided to punish me in the taxi on the way to Kampala from Masaka. That was one experience I hope never to have to repeat! I had my heard our of the window the whole time and I’m pretty sure the guy next to me was fearing for his hygienic safety: he kept glancing at me as if I’d lose what I was trying to hold down at any moment, which was basically true. But, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: if I had a choice, I’d eat the same things again!! I stayed in Kampala for the night, visiting my neighbor whose dad has a house there. It was nice and relaxing: we watched friends whiles I was still recuperating and went grocery shopping the next day, before I headed back.
The second term of school started that last week of April. As of now, I am teaching S1 Math, S2 Bio, S5 Bio, computers and PE. I have been teaching the S1 and S2 regularly since term started and I am enjoying being in the classroom very much. Each of those two classes are between 75 and 80 students. Yeah, I know, they’re pretty hefty classes! But, I should say that the number of students in my class isn’t very extraordinary in Uganda. It’s actually only a little above the average class size; some teachers have to teach over 100 students. The two classes are behind in their subjects, meaning that, according to the national syllabus, they haven’t been taught all the subjects they should have up to this point. I was just assigned the S5 class, so I have only had a couple of classes with them. With their particular level, I see a lot of work is needed. But, there are only three students in this class, so one-on-one time will be easily attainable and beneficial. In teaching my classes, I have several goals for myself and hopes for the students. For example, I want to get them to the level that they should be at. Also, I want to actually teach them the subjects. The dominate mode of “learning” in Ugandan schools is memorization. The students are only expected to spout off what they have been told in class. Questions are rarely asked, or encouraged, and very few students know how to think critically, or outside the box. One of my main objectives is to get the students to actually know and learn the subject. I want to encourage them to ask questions, to analyze and to truly understand that it is they are writing. Though the concept may seem simple, it will take a lot of time and energy to get it across to the students. As the term and school year go on, I will let you know how it goes.
Last weekend was the inter-house competition at the school. The girls and teachers are assigned to one of three houses: dove, parrot and sparrow. I chose to be in sparrow, because the bird reminds me of the states. It was an intense day!! The theme of the sports day was athletics, meaning running and other track events. Some of the girls had to run around the field 12 times(!) Keep in mind that it was a hot, rather sunny day, with no water and no experience running (aka, how to breath, pace, etc.) The girls were passing out left and right. No joke, straight up one second they’re running and the next they’re being half-carried, half dragged to the shade. I tried to help the first few girls that this happened to, but there wasn’t a lot I could do. There was no water and, besides, the students were convinced that water would make her state worse. The process basically was: girl collapses, friends carry her to shade, a group of students fan her with shawls, she’s given pure glucose and eventually she is back her feet. I’m definitely seeing some problems with this picture and, sometime in the future, I hope to address them.
As far my cooking woes I go, I want to say that I absolutely refuse to admit I may be a bad cook!! That just can’t be. I can cook in the States so, theoretically, I should be able to cook he, right? Right?! Anyway, lets just say that one of my pans is no longer usable because I may or may not have burnt a whole in it… don’t ask me for the details, it’s just going to upset me! Plus, I had a realization other day, when I was eating a meal I had prepared properly, that a lot of the time, I eat my cooking because I have to. I don’t actually really enjoy what I’m eating, I just eat it because I need to be fed. *Ugh* What a dismal thought! Next time I post, it will be with tales of how wonderful my cooking has become and how everybody wants to eat dinner at my place because their food cannot possible compare. Hahaha!! Oh yes, victory shall me mine!
Alright, that was a really long update and I need to wind it up so I can get home before it gets dark, sketchy and full of mosquitoes. Oh, before I forget, my new address is: PO Box 881, Tororo, Uganda. I’m going to Kampala in a couple of weeks and plan to turn the place upside down looking for my mail. I actually heard a rumor that a letter from Japan is waiting for me and perhaps some packages(!) So, as soon as I get there, I will ransack the place and let you all know what I find! I miss all of you very much and will sending out another round of letters, to send when I’m in Kampala so, fear not, if you have not received a letter, it will come…eventually…maybe…I hope…
TTFN ( :
~Rachael
So, down to business, what has been going on here in the month that I’ve been MIA? Let’s see, on the second to last weekend of April, I went to Masaka to visit some other volunteers. It’s that last time I’ll be able to take any extended trips for a while because the second term has started and I’m expected to give practicals on Saturdays. Anyway, there were 5-6 of us and we basically toured the town and ate our way through the weekend. It was pretty fantastic! One of the highlights of the trip would be the jumping of the fence in order to get to Amber’s house. The gate was locked, which was good protection for the people inside, but kinda sucked for us, since we wanted to be part of the people inside. So, in a somewhat organized fashion, our bags were thrown over and we soon followed. The gate wasn’t too bad; in fact, I’d say it was very climbable. The only problems were that some of the girls were in skirts and it was dark outside. But, we all managed to get in safe and sound. More importantly, I was able to get some good photos of our stellar entrance. We also over indulged in muzungu food, which, as always, is a wonderful experience at the time of consumption, but, in the end, turns on you with a vengeance. My stomach decided to punish me in the taxi on the way to Kampala from Masaka. That was one experience I hope never to have to repeat! I had my heard our of the window the whole time and I’m pretty sure the guy next to me was fearing for his hygienic safety: he kept glancing at me as if I’d lose what I was trying to hold down at any moment, which was basically true. But, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: if I had a choice, I’d eat the same things again!! I stayed in Kampala for the night, visiting my neighbor whose dad has a house there. It was nice and relaxing: we watched friends whiles I was still recuperating and went grocery shopping the next day, before I headed back.
The second term of school started that last week of April. As of now, I am teaching S1 Math, S2 Bio, S5 Bio, computers and PE. I have been teaching the S1 and S2 regularly since term started and I am enjoying being in the classroom very much. Each of those two classes are between 75 and 80 students. Yeah, I know, they’re pretty hefty classes! But, I should say that the number of students in my class isn’t very extraordinary in Uganda. It’s actually only a little above the average class size; some teachers have to teach over 100 students. The two classes are behind in their subjects, meaning that, according to the national syllabus, they haven’t been taught all the subjects they should have up to this point. I was just assigned the S5 class, so I have only had a couple of classes with them. With their particular level, I see a lot of work is needed. But, there are only three students in this class, so one-on-one time will be easily attainable and beneficial. In teaching my classes, I have several goals for myself and hopes for the students. For example, I want to get them to the level that they should be at. Also, I want to actually teach them the subjects. The dominate mode of “learning” in Ugandan schools is memorization. The students are only expected to spout off what they have been told in class. Questions are rarely asked, or encouraged, and very few students know how to think critically, or outside the box. One of my main objectives is to get the students to actually know and learn the subject. I want to encourage them to ask questions, to analyze and to truly understand that it is they are writing. Though the concept may seem simple, it will take a lot of time and energy to get it across to the students. As the term and school year go on, I will let you know how it goes.
Last weekend was the inter-house competition at the school. The girls and teachers are assigned to one of three houses: dove, parrot and sparrow. I chose to be in sparrow, because the bird reminds me of the states. It was an intense day!! The theme of the sports day was athletics, meaning running and other track events. Some of the girls had to run around the field 12 times(!) Keep in mind that it was a hot, rather sunny day, with no water and no experience running (aka, how to breath, pace, etc.) The girls were passing out left and right. No joke, straight up one second they’re running and the next they’re being half-carried, half dragged to the shade. I tried to help the first few girls that this happened to, but there wasn’t a lot I could do. There was no water and, besides, the students were convinced that water would make her state worse. The process basically was: girl collapses, friends carry her to shade, a group of students fan her with shawls, she’s given pure glucose and eventually she is back her feet. I’m definitely seeing some problems with this picture and, sometime in the future, I hope to address them.
As far my cooking woes I go, I want to say that I absolutely refuse to admit I may be a bad cook!! That just can’t be. I can cook in the States so, theoretically, I should be able to cook he, right? Right?! Anyway, lets just say that one of my pans is no longer usable because I may or may not have burnt a whole in it… don’t ask me for the details, it’s just going to upset me! Plus, I had a realization other day, when I was eating a meal I had prepared properly, that a lot of the time, I eat my cooking because I have to. I don’t actually really enjoy what I’m eating, I just eat it because I need to be fed. *Ugh* What a dismal thought! Next time I post, it will be with tales of how wonderful my cooking has become and how everybody wants to eat dinner at my place because their food cannot possible compare. Hahaha!! Oh yes, victory shall me mine!
Alright, that was a really long update and I need to wind it up so I can get home before it gets dark, sketchy and full of mosquitoes. Oh, before I forget, my new address is: PO Box 881, Tororo, Uganda. I’m going to Kampala in a couple of weeks and plan to turn the place upside down looking for my mail. I actually heard a rumor that a letter from Japan is waiting for me and perhaps some packages(!) So, as soon as I get there, I will ransack the place and let you all know what I find! I miss all of you very much and will sending out another round of letters, to send when I’m in Kampala so, fear not, if you have not received a letter, it will come…eventually…maybe…I hope…
TTFN ( :
~Rachael
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Culinary Catastrophes!
Hey Everybody! I’ve finally gotten myself to the internet café so you all will know I am still alive and kicking! It has been a very important and busy last few weeks, so I will do my best to fill you in on what has been happening.
On Sunday, April 19th, I said goodbye to my homestay family, who had been taking care of me and teaching me the ways of the Ugandan for the past two months. I was very sad to leave them all, but at the same time, I was ready to go and work at my site. The other PSTs and I went to Kampala, where we stayed for a couple of days, touring the PC Headquarters, meeting our counterparts or supervisors and relaxing a bit before being sent off to site. The Swearing in Ceremony was on Wednesday (4/22). There, I officially became a volunteer of the United States Peace Corps!(!!) It was a small ceremony, but very well put together. Afterwards, I said goodbye to the people I had been sharing my life with since arriving in Philly for the staging event. These goodbyes were harder and I found myself a little hesitant to leave them. They have all been my support network in every possible way and leaving them was like leaving a piece of me.
I traveled using public transportation to my site, which was a bit stressful and uncomfortable, but nothing unmanageable. I’m not sure I can tell you exactly where I am (PC is a liiiitle paranoid), but I will tell you that I’m in a small town, somewhere between Mbale and Tororo.
After being here for almost two weeks, I think I’m beginning to get the swing of things. My town looks like it belongs as the set of a John Wayne movie. Seriously, it looks like an old Western town and has a very small roundabout in the center. I don’t live on school grounds like most education volunteers do, but in the town itself. There is a Japanese volunteer who is also working at the school, and she is living on the grounds. I am very excited that I will be working with her, and she will also be here for two years. I live in a very small compound (I think there are 6 residencies all together) and we are locked in. my place has two rooms with a small bathroom. The first room you are in upon entering is the living room/kitchen/dinning room and the next room is my bedroom. The bathroom has a toilet, sink and shower, however, the shower is so close to the toilet, that I need to put a shower curtain in order to keep it from getting sprayed (another volunteer suggested I take a shower while doing my business on the pot in order to kill two birds with one stone, but I think there are some logistical problems…) It may be a little smaller than people are used, but it is quite adequate. Since arriving at site, I have been doing my best to transform my place to a home. I have bought the cooking necessities, put down a floor, washed the walls in the living room and done other little nick nacks. You are probably wondering about the title of this particular post. Well, let me tell you, cooking here is no easy feat! First of all, you should know that I have to cook over a kerosene stove, which is an open flame, single burner that is somewhat difficult to master when one first attempts to use. The first night I used it, I tried to cook pasta with tomatoes. I know what you’re thinking. Pasta should be the easiest thing in the world to cook, since all you have to do is boil water. Well, after an hour of waiting for the stupid water to boil (which it still had not done at this point), I added the pasta anyway. Needless to say, the past became a goopy mess. I tried to save it by adding water after I had drained it to try and wash away the nastiness, but to no avail. That really just made it worse. Then, I thought I deserved some ice tea (from the packets) for my efforts and took a swig of what I thought was water from my water bottle. Yeah… did I mention that I had bought some kerosene earlier and put it in a water bottle? Did I also forget to mention that kerosene is somewhat similar in appearance to water? So, after chugging kerosene, which I spit out as soon as I realized what I was doing, I decided I was not in the food eating mood. The next day, I tried to make cabbage and potatoes. The cabbage tasted like vegetable oil and salt (I couldn’t even swallow it) and the potatoes tasted like plain salt. I was very distraught at this but my neighbor, Noel, took pity on me when I showed her my salty mess and made me fried eggs and chipati. However, the next night, I did successfully make spaghetti. Third time is always the charm ( ; I absolutely love my neighbors! They are fun to talk to and make sure that I am eating. They know that I am somewhat incapable of feeding myself, since I always bring over what I have attempted to cook that night and make them taste it. Instant ramen has been a good friend of mine lately… I also purchased a bike, which I have been riding around a lot in order to get the community used to seeing me and I think it has been working. I have met a few people in town who have told me they see me riding my bike.
I am very sorry to say that I haven’t gotten myself a new address yet! (head bowed down in shame). I got the form in order to get myself a box at the post office, but I need to come back later with passport pictures before I can get it. I’m hoping to have an address within the next couple of week. Alas, I have still not gotten any mail from PC, except for the CD from Erin. I have a sneaking suspicion that they are keeping our mail hostage, or are refusing to pick it up from the post office. I have checked recently, but there is still nothing. But, do not fear, I will not give up! I’m going to be sending my second round of letter to everyone, so if you haven’t gotten one yet, it is either a.) still in transit or b.) waiting to be written. In either case, please be patient with me and I will try to get them to you as soon as possible. Aunt Pam, I love you for understanding my unnatural need for trashy magazines!! My favorite are US Weekly and People, but I will read anything. I’m glad you guys got the letter and I’m excited for your responses ( : Chibi, my love, you are number one on my list for getting a letter! Thank you for thinking of me and I’ll let you know when the care package arrives (no worries on how long it takes).
Sorry for how long this was, but I wanted to make sure you know what was happening. I miss you all and think about you everyday! Hope all is well, TTFN!!
~Rachael
On Sunday, April 19th, I said goodbye to my homestay family, who had been taking care of me and teaching me the ways of the Ugandan for the past two months. I was very sad to leave them all, but at the same time, I was ready to go and work at my site. The other PSTs and I went to Kampala, where we stayed for a couple of days, touring the PC Headquarters, meeting our counterparts or supervisors and relaxing a bit before being sent off to site. The Swearing in Ceremony was on Wednesday (4/22). There, I officially became a volunteer of the United States Peace Corps!(!!) It was a small ceremony, but very well put together. Afterwards, I said goodbye to the people I had been sharing my life with since arriving in Philly for the staging event. These goodbyes were harder and I found myself a little hesitant to leave them. They have all been my support network in every possible way and leaving them was like leaving a piece of me.
I traveled using public transportation to my site, which was a bit stressful and uncomfortable, but nothing unmanageable. I’m not sure I can tell you exactly where I am (PC is a liiiitle paranoid), but I will tell you that I’m in a small town, somewhere between Mbale and Tororo.
After being here for almost two weeks, I think I’m beginning to get the swing of things. My town looks like it belongs as the set of a John Wayne movie. Seriously, it looks like an old Western town and has a very small roundabout in the center. I don’t live on school grounds like most education volunteers do, but in the town itself. There is a Japanese volunteer who is also working at the school, and she is living on the grounds. I am very excited that I will be working with her, and she will also be here for two years. I live in a very small compound (I think there are 6 residencies all together) and we are locked in. my place has two rooms with a small bathroom. The first room you are in upon entering is the living room/kitchen/dinning room and the next room is my bedroom. The bathroom has a toilet, sink and shower, however, the shower is so close to the toilet, that I need to put a shower curtain in order to keep it from getting sprayed (another volunteer suggested I take a shower while doing my business on the pot in order to kill two birds with one stone, but I think there are some logistical problems…) It may be a little smaller than people are used, but it is quite adequate. Since arriving at site, I have been doing my best to transform my place to a home. I have bought the cooking necessities, put down a floor, washed the walls in the living room and done other little nick nacks. You are probably wondering about the title of this particular post. Well, let me tell you, cooking here is no easy feat! First of all, you should know that I have to cook over a kerosene stove, which is an open flame, single burner that is somewhat difficult to master when one first attempts to use. The first night I used it, I tried to cook pasta with tomatoes. I know what you’re thinking. Pasta should be the easiest thing in the world to cook, since all you have to do is boil water. Well, after an hour of waiting for the stupid water to boil (which it still had not done at this point), I added the pasta anyway. Needless to say, the past became a goopy mess. I tried to save it by adding water after I had drained it to try and wash away the nastiness, but to no avail. That really just made it worse. Then, I thought I deserved some ice tea (from the packets) for my efforts and took a swig of what I thought was water from my water bottle. Yeah… did I mention that I had bought some kerosene earlier and put it in a water bottle? Did I also forget to mention that kerosene is somewhat similar in appearance to water? So, after chugging kerosene, which I spit out as soon as I realized what I was doing, I decided I was not in the food eating mood. The next day, I tried to make cabbage and potatoes. The cabbage tasted like vegetable oil and salt (I couldn’t even swallow it) and the potatoes tasted like plain salt. I was very distraught at this but my neighbor, Noel, took pity on me when I showed her my salty mess and made me fried eggs and chipati. However, the next night, I did successfully make spaghetti. Third time is always the charm ( ; I absolutely love my neighbors! They are fun to talk to and make sure that I am eating. They know that I am somewhat incapable of feeding myself, since I always bring over what I have attempted to cook that night and make them taste it. Instant ramen has been a good friend of mine lately… I also purchased a bike, which I have been riding around a lot in order to get the community used to seeing me and I think it has been working. I have met a few people in town who have told me they see me riding my bike.
I am very sorry to say that I haven’t gotten myself a new address yet! (head bowed down in shame). I got the form in order to get myself a box at the post office, but I need to come back later with passport pictures before I can get it. I’m hoping to have an address within the next couple of week. Alas, I have still not gotten any mail from PC, except for the CD from Erin. I have a sneaking suspicion that they are keeping our mail hostage, or are refusing to pick it up from the post office. I have checked recently, but there is still nothing. But, do not fear, I will not give up! I’m going to be sending my second round of letter to everyone, so if you haven’t gotten one yet, it is either a.) still in transit or b.) waiting to be written. In either case, please be patient with me and I will try to get them to you as soon as possible. Aunt Pam, I love you for understanding my unnatural need for trashy magazines!! My favorite are US Weekly and People, but I will read anything. I’m glad you guys got the letter and I’m excited for your responses ( : Chibi, my love, you are number one on my list for getting a letter! Thank you for thinking of me and I’ll let you know when the care package arrives (no worries on how long it takes).
Sorry for how long this was, but I wanted to make sure you know what was happening. I miss you all and think about you everyday! Hope all is well, TTFN!!
~Rachael
Saturday, April 11, 2009
What's up, everyone?! So, yeah, haven't had internet in a few weeks, so I'm sorry for the long period between this update and the last one (after re-reading the last update, I realized it was kind of lame, so sorry about that). However, I plan on making it up to everyone through the awesomeness of this one!
The soccer game that I went to, the one between Kampala and Malawi, was a lot of fun! It was really nice to actually do something in Kampala, besides eat and use internet. It was very cheap to get in and we got to sit wherever we wanted. Soccer is one of the few sports that I enjoy watching, since I know the rules, and it was an experience to see the national team playing and listening to their countrymen rooting them on. Uganda won (2-1), so there was lots of cheering and everyone went away happy. After the game, me and some other trainees made our way back to the place that we were going to stay for the night. I don't want to talk about, since it's just going to irritate me all over again, but it was not very fun. We had to ask directions a million times and my stomach was completely empty. For those you who know me, you'll know that's a dangerous combination. However, I'm happy to report that I didn't attack any innocent bystanders and we all made it to the hotel in one piece (I did almost throttle a guy who cut me in line at the supermarket, though... hey, I was buying food to try and help the situation whenhe just stepped in front of me like he belonged there!). The other trainees and I went to the COS party and then out to a club. It was a lot of fun and I'm happy to report that I was able to keep my own when dancing with other Ugandans. The weekend was topped off by the fact that I (finally) found a place that both served pickles and had them in stock. So, for breakfast I had eggs, bacon and a pickle ( :
A couple of weeks ago, we had a girl's night out, so to speak. This meant that the majority of us went to another trainees house to spend the night. It was a much needed break and I enjoyed myself immensly. We had pasta, chipati (my favorite), and no-bake cookies for dinner, then watched Saved! on someone's laptop. I know this sounds like any number of nights back in the states, but here, this is a luxery. Almost everyday we stay and eat with out families and for people like me, who didn't bring their laptop, there's no opportunity to get in a good american fix. So, it was almost like being home... then everybody woke up in the morning covered in bug bites since there were no mosquito nets!
Last Thursday was the talent show! Lizzy and I were the MCs and the show was open to anybody who wanted to sign up (trainers, trainees, etc.). I did a dance with another trainee, Christine and I think it was the most awesomely bad dance this side of the world has ever seen. We used the song Backstreet's Back and basically put in every dance we could think of. Some examples include the Carlton, Ace Ventura, Soulja Boy, the Q-tip and the Light Bulb (definitely an audiene favorite). Other people played the guitar, sung, danced, did a spelling bee while juggling a soccer ball, and cheered. All in all, it was a complete success. At the end, awards were given out to everyone. Mine was Most Likely to Watch Second Chance to the End. I definitely think I earned that award. Hey, someone has to watch out for Salvador! It was good see everybody participate and trust us enough not to be inhibited. *sniff* I'm really going to miss our group bond when I go to site!
Yesterday (Friday) we went to Jinja for some local attractions. We went to the mouth (or is it foot?) of the Nile. It was a beautiful day and the breeze felt so good. Even though the water looked a little nasty and possibly infected with Schistomaises, I put my hand in it and can now say that I have touched the Nile river! There was a concrete wharf that went a little into the middle, so I got to stand there with the wind whipping my shirt, you know, movie style ( : We also visited a forest and waterfall, whose names have been told to me several time but I still can't remember. Then, we were left to out own devices in Jinja town for a couple of hours. I had the best, and worse, meal ever! First, just let me say that I had every intention of fasting yesterday, it being Good Friday and all. However, as soon as the peanut butter and jelly sandwhiches were brought out, I lost all control and had to give in. All I have to say in my defense is that Jesus is obviously a way better person than me and would never be swayed by snacky goodness! Anyway, back to Jinja, I had a tuna sandwhich, a scoop of ice crean and a chocolate chip cookie. They were so good, but my body seemed to have its own opinions and proceeded to punish me with stomach cramps for the rest of the night! However, it was so worth it and I would do it again in a heart beat. Yeah! I guess we know who wears that pants in that relationship!
Ok, I think those are all of the major events that have happened. A week from this coming Wednesday, I am going to be sworn in a an official Peace Corps Volunteer and dropped off at my site, where I will either sink or swim. Lucky for me, I have no qualms about using floaties ( : If anybody is going to send a letter, I would hold off on it until I get my new address. As soon as I know, I'll let you know. Random notes: Shout out to the best roomate ever times ifinity plus one for the awesome CD she sent me! Aunt Francie, I haven't gotten your letters yet but will let you know as soon as I do. Sharon, my email is rnyberghampton@gmail.com. Krista, I would kill for a snow storm to hinder my transportation faculties right now. Sometimes I think freezing to death would be a better way to go then melting. And yeah, I will be the pickling master when I'm done! When I get back, I'll make you a batch. To my darling wife, a letter will be heading your way veeeeery soon. If anybody has any trashy magazines they are tired of, feel free to send them my way. Also, I am really in the dark here as to what's going on in America. If anybody has any Times or Newsweek that are just taking up space, I could help you with that problem by having them take up space here. I miss you all and thanks for commenting/reading! TTFN!
~Rachael
The soccer game that I went to, the one between Kampala and Malawi, was a lot of fun! It was really nice to actually do something in Kampala, besides eat and use internet. It was very cheap to get in and we got to sit wherever we wanted. Soccer is one of the few sports that I enjoy watching, since I know the rules, and it was an experience to see the national team playing and listening to their countrymen rooting them on. Uganda won (2-1), so there was lots of cheering and everyone went away happy. After the game, me and some other trainees made our way back to the place that we were going to stay for the night. I don't want to talk about, since it's just going to irritate me all over again, but it was not very fun. We had to ask directions a million times and my stomach was completely empty. For those you who know me, you'll know that's a dangerous combination. However, I'm happy to report that I didn't attack any innocent bystanders and we all made it to the hotel in one piece (I did almost throttle a guy who cut me in line at the supermarket, though... hey, I was buying food to try and help the situation whenhe just stepped in front of me like he belonged there!). The other trainees and I went to the COS party and then out to a club. It was a lot of fun and I'm happy to report that I was able to keep my own when dancing with other Ugandans. The weekend was topped off by the fact that I (finally) found a place that both served pickles and had them in stock. So, for breakfast I had eggs, bacon and a pickle ( :
A couple of weeks ago, we had a girl's night out, so to speak. This meant that the majority of us went to another trainees house to spend the night. It was a much needed break and I enjoyed myself immensly. We had pasta, chipati (my favorite), and no-bake cookies for dinner, then watched Saved! on someone's laptop. I know this sounds like any number of nights back in the states, but here, this is a luxery. Almost everyday we stay and eat with out families and for people like me, who didn't bring their laptop, there's no opportunity to get in a good american fix. So, it was almost like being home... then everybody woke up in the morning covered in bug bites since there were no mosquito nets!
Last Thursday was the talent show! Lizzy and I were the MCs and the show was open to anybody who wanted to sign up (trainers, trainees, etc.). I did a dance with another trainee, Christine and I think it was the most awesomely bad dance this side of the world has ever seen. We used the song Backstreet's Back and basically put in every dance we could think of. Some examples include the Carlton, Ace Ventura, Soulja Boy, the Q-tip and the Light Bulb (definitely an audiene favorite). Other people played the guitar, sung, danced, did a spelling bee while juggling a soccer ball, and cheered. All in all, it was a complete success. At the end, awards were given out to everyone. Mine was Most Likely to Watch Second Chance to the End. I definitely think I earned that award. Hey, someone has to watch out for Salvador! It was good see everybody participate and trust us enough not to be inhibited. *sniff* I'm really going to miss our group bond when I go to site!
Yesterday (Friday) we went to Jinja for some local attractions. We went to the mouth (or is it foot?) of the Nile. It was a beautiful day and the breeze felt so good. Even though the water looked a little nasty and possibly infected with Schistomaises, I put my hand in it and can now say that I have touched the Nile river! There was a concrete wharf that went a little into the middle, so I got to stand there with the wind whipping my shirt, you know, movie style ( : We also visited a forest and waterfall, whose names have been told to me several time but I still can't remember. Then, we were left to out own devices in Jinja town for a couple of hours. I had the best, and worse, meal ever! First, just let me say that I had every intention of fasting yesterday, it being Good Friday and all. However, as soon as the peanut butter and jelly sandwhiches were brought out, I lost all control and had to give in. All I have to say in my defense is that Jesus is obviously a way better person than me and would never be swayed by snacky goodness! Anyway, back to Jinja, I had a tuna sandwhich, a scoop of ice crean and a chocolate chip cookie. They were so good, but my body seemed to have its own opinions and proceeded to punish me with stomach cramps for the rest of the night! However, it was so worth it and I would do it again in a heart beat. Yeah! I guess we know who wears that pants in that relationship!
Ok, I think those are all of the major events that have happened. A week from this coming Wednesday, I am going to be sworn in a an official Peace Corps Volunteer and dropped off at my site, where I will either sink or swim. Lucky for me, I have no qualms about using floaties ( : If anybody is going to send a letter, I would hold off on it until I get my new address. As soon as I know, I'll let you know. Random notes: Shout out to the best roomate ever times ifinity plus one for the awesome CD she sent me! Aunt Francie, I haven't gotten your letters yet but will let you know as soon as I do. Sharon, my email is rnyberghampton@gmail.com. Krista, I would kill for a snow storm to hinder my transportation faculties right now. Sometimes I think freezing to death would be a better way to go then melting. And yeah, I will be the pickling master when I'm done! When I get back, I'll make you a batch. To my darling wife, a letter will be heading your way veeeeery soon. If anybody has any trashy magazines they are tired of, feel free to send them my way. Also, I am really in the dark here as to what's going on in America. If anybody has any Times or Newsweek that are just taking up space, I could help you with that problem by having them take up space here. I miss you all and thanks for commenting/reading! TTFN!
~Rachael
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Language, language and...oh yeah, language!
Alright, I have found my way back to the internet and can properly update you all on what’s been happening ( :
A couple of weeks ago, I visited a current Peace Corp Volunteer and was able to stay with her for a few days. The purpose of this trip was to see how a volunteer lived, worked, and what they did day to day. I’m really glad we had the opportunity to do this. The trainers and other PCV’s have been explaining to us different things to expect and trying to paint a picture of what we could expect at our site. Visiting a volunteer, seeing them cook, work, clean and fend for themselves really helped me more in imagining life after training. I had a lot of fun and was introduced to a new TV show that I absolutely love. Some of you may have heard of it: Ugly Betty. If you have a chance, the show is hilarious.
This past week was all about language. On Thursday, we had a stimulation day, where I had to speak Dhopadhola for two and a half hours. Then, yesterday, I had a mock Language Proficiency Interview (LPI). Therefore, we had 2-4 hours of language everyday (!!). Now, I’m not saying that I don’t enjoy learning or don’t like the language. I just want to point out that, after ~twenty minutes of one subject, your brain automatically shuts off and begins to wonder. It’s true! I would go so far as so say that it’s even a scientific fact. So, you can imagine the state of my brain after 4 hours…
On Monday, I am going to a secondary school, where I’ll be teaching. I’m not sure which subject, or even how many classes, but I’m told we are going to be expected and that a lesson plan will be waiting. I’ve taught in the secondary schools before (ok, only once and that was a couple of weeks ago) and the students are very respectful. I don’t forsee any problems and am excited to get in front of the class again.
Right now, I am visiting Kampala, where I have just had the best meal ever, which will take at least 24 hours to digest. I am going to see a soccer game between Uganda and Malawi now, so I need to scoot. TTFN!!
~Rachael
A couple of weeks ago, I visited a current Peace Corp Volunteer and was able to stay with her for a few days. The purpose of this trip was to see how a volunteer lived, worked, and what they did day to day. I’m really glad we had the opportunity to do this. The trainers and other PCV’s have been explaining to us different things to expect and trying to paint a picture of what we could expect at our site. Visiting a volunteer, seeing them cook, work, clean and fend for themselves really helped me more in imagining life after training. I had a lot of fun and was introduced to a new TV show that I absolutely love. Some of you may have heard of it: Ugly Betty. If you have a chance, the show is hilarious.
This past week was all about language. On Thursday, we had a stimulation day, where I had to speak Dhopadhola for two and a half hours. Then, yesterday, I had a mock Language Proficiency Interview (LPI). Therefore, we had 2-4 hours of language everyday (!!). Now, I’m not saying that I don’t enjoy learning or don’t like the language. I just want to point out that, after ~twenty minutes of one subject, your brain automatically shuts off and begins to wonder. It’s true! I would go so far as so say that it’s even a scientific fact. So, you can imagine the state of my brain after 4 hours…
On Monday, I am going to a secondary school, where I’ll be teaching. I’m not sure which subject, or even how many classes, but I’m told we are going to be expected and that a lesson plan will be waiting. I’ve taught in the secondary schools before (ok, only once and that was a couple of weeks ago) and the students are very respectful. I don’t forsee any problems and am excited to get in front of the class again.
Right now, I am visiting Kampala, where I have just had the best meal ever, which will take at least 24 hours to digest. I am going to see a soccer game between Uganda and Malawi now, so I need to scoot. TTFN!!
~Rachael
Saturday, March 7, 2009
My Wishlist ( :
Ok, so the easiest way to put up the wishlist was to put it in a post.
-pickles (if anybody can figure out a way to send these too me, I will love you for forever and ever!)
-snacks that will last (fruit snacks, granola bars, chex mix etc.)
-sweets
-mixed CDs! (I'm going to by a cd player)
-washclothes
Ok, I can't actually think of anything else right now, but I'll let you know as they come. Thank you if you do send, but don't feel like you have to!!
-pickles (if anybody can figure out a way to send these too me, I will love you for forever and ever!)
-snacks that will last (fruit snacks, granola bars, chex mix etc.)
-sweets
-mixed CDs! (I'm going to by a cd player)
-washclothes
Ok, I can't actually think of anything else right now, but I'll let you know as they come. Thank you if you do send, but don't feel like you have to!!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
This is me... where I am!
Hello everybody! I’m not allowed to actually post where in Uganda I am since people might take advantage of that. However, I can tell you in the individual letters that I have started to write. There’s a lot that I want to update you on, but I will try to keep it somewhat brief, since I actually want you to finish reading this post.
First things first, I have a phone(!) My number is 256-75-272-6239. It is free for me to receive any calls or texts, so call whenever ( : I know, I know, I will call you guys as well. Give me some credit! I’m not that cheap. Just remember that there is a ten hour difference between here and Denver, so plan accordingly. However, texts can come at anytime!
Right now, I am a PCT (Peace Corps Trainee). We have various training classes Monday through Friday 8-5 and Saturday, 8-12. Everyday I have at least two hours of language training. The language that I’m learning is Dhopadhola, which means that I will be serving in the eastern part of the country, near the Kenyan border. The language itself is not very hard to lean, but I need to actually make time to sit down and learn it. The other classes are mainly about culture, secondary education in Uganda and health classes. I have had more vaccines injected in me than I care to remember. I have also learned about more infections and sicknesses that I can get here than I though existed in total. The good thing is that the majority of these aren’t problems in the US, so when I come back, I don’t have to worry about it! Until then…
I am staying with a host family during training. I have a host mom, dad, three brothers and a sister. All of my siblings are younger than me, but not by much. My sister and two of my host brothers live at home. I have never lived with a host family before, but I am enjoying my family very much! They don’t treat me like a guest, but like part of the family, which is exactly how I want it. I am in the midst of learning how to cook and I also want to try and cook an American dinner for the before I leave. Thursday through Sunday, I watch a soap called Second Chance. And, while I am on this subject, just let me say how awesomely bad this show is. It is a telenovela (El cuerpo de deseo) that is dubbed in English that almost every family watches and is faaaabulous. I love this show! Monday through Wednesday, my host family always asks what I am going to do, since I don’t have Second Chance to watch. To which I just sigh, since I am so sad.
Next week, I am going to be staying with a Peace Corp Volunteer (PCV) for four days. I am excited because I actually get to see a PCV in their natural environment but a little nervous, since I have to find my way to their area by myself. It is very possible to get wherever I’m going (which I don’t actually know yet) without incident. However, I can definitely see myself getting a little lost. Those of you who know me know that my sense of direction is not the best. However, I want it to be noted that I always find where I need to go! Just by a different way…no, wait, a better way.
Ok, that’s all I have for now. I’m going to post a “wish list” in my profile. Some people have asked if I need anything. I think the easiest thing is to put up a list of things that would be nice to have, but that I can live without. My address is in a previous post. To ensure arrival, it is better to mail those small, padded envelopes. Another PCT has already had a package get stolen in route. Please, do not feel any obligation to send me anything but letters (yes, that’s right, feel the obligation to write to me!)! This is just if you’re feeling, um, bored or something. Anyways, I miss all of you. TTFN!!
~Rachael
First things first, I have a phone(!) My number is 256-75-272-6239. It is free for me to receive any calls or texts, so call whenever ( : I know, I know, I will call you guys as well. Give me some credit! I’m not that cheap. Just remember that there is a ten hour difference between here and Denver, so plan accordingly. However, texts can come at anytime!
Right now, I am a PCT (Peace Corps Trainee). We have various training classes Monday through Friday 8-5 and Saturday, 8-12. Everyday I have at least two hours of language training. The language that I’m learning is Dhopadhola, which means that I will be serving in the eastern part of the country, near the Kenyan border. The language itself is not very hard to lean, but I need to actually make time to sit down and learn it. The other classes are mainly about culture, secondary education in Uganda and health classes. I have had more vaccines injected in me than I care to remember. I have also learned about more infections and sicknesses that I can get here than I though existed in total. The good thing is that the majority of these aren’t problems in the US, so when I come back, I don’t have to worry about it! Until then…
I am staying with a host family during training. I have a host mom, dad, three brothers and a sister. All of my siblings are younger than me, but not by much. My sister and two of my host brothers live at home. I have never lived with a host family before, but I am enjoying my family very much! They don’t treat me like a guest, but like part of the family, which is exactly how I want it. I am in the midst of learning how to cook and I also want to try and cook an American dinner for the before I leave. Thursday through Sunday, I watch a soap called Second Chance. And, while I am on this subject, just let me say how awesomely bad this show is. It is a telenovela (El cuerpo de deseo) that is dubbed in English that almost every family watches and is faaaabulous. I love this show! Monday through Wednesday, my host family always asks what I am going to do, since I don’t have Second Chance to watch. To which I just sigh, since I am so sad.
Next week, I am going to be staying with a Peace Corp Volunteer (PCV) for four days. I am excited because I actually get to see a PCV in their natural environment but a little nervous, since I have to find my way to their area by myself. It is very possible to get wherever I’m going (which I don’t actually know yet) without incident. However, I can definitely see myself getting a little lost. Those of you who know me know that my sense of direction is not the best. However, I want it to be noted that I always find where I need to go! Just by a different way…no, wait, a better way.
Ok, that’s all I have for now. I’m going to post a “wish list” in my profile. Some people have asked if I need anything. I think the easiest thing is to put up a list of things that would be nice to have, but that I can live without. My address is in a previous post. To ensure arrival, it is better to mail those small, padded envelopes. Another PCT has already had a package get stolen in route. Please, do not feel any obligation to send me anything but letters (yes, that’s right, feel the obligation to write to me!)! This is just if you’re feeling, um, bored or something. Anyways, I miss all of you. TTFN!!
~Rachael
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
First shout out from Uganda!!
Hey everybody, me (and my precious luggage) have made it to Lweza, Uganda! I am currently shopping in Kampala, where I just bought a bathroom bucket for night "short" and "long" hauls, and am using a computer in my first internet cafe.
I arrived at the Lweza training Center Saturday night with 31 other volunteers who will be serving in Uganda as well. We are staying at the training center until tomorrow, when we will be given to our host families. Each volunteer is placed with a different host family for the duration of training, which is roughly 2 months. I am very excited to finally be meeting them, even though I don't actually have any details about them, and am anticipating some quality family bonding time as they teach me to properly wash my clothes by hand.
At the training center, we have been taking culture, safety & awareness, survival Luganda (one of the main dialects here) and health classes in order to prepare us for homestay. It can get a little overwhelming, just because the classes are so long, but it's really nice how thoroughly they are preparing us. I now know about five phrases in Luganda, but anything beyond that will get a bright smile and a confused look.
That's about all that has happened in the last week. I won't know where my site will be until the end of training, but I will begin language classes in the dialect that is spoken there starting next week. I hope to be able to update this somewhat regularly, but if not, I loooove getting letters! *cough, cough* You know, I reeeeally love letters. *wink, wink* Did I mention snail mail is my favorite ?
I hope you all are having a good time in the states. TTFN ( :
~Rachael
I arrived at the Lweza training Center Saturday night with 31 other volunteers who will be serving in Uganda as well. We are staying at the training center until tomorrow, when we will be given to our host families. Each volunteer is placed with a different host family for the duration of training, which is roughly 2 months. I am very excited to finally be meeting them, even though I don't actually have any details about them, and am anticipating some quality family bonding time as they teach me to properly wash my clothes by hand.
At the training center, we have been taking culture, safety & awareness, survival Luganda (one of the main dialects here) and health classes in order to prepare us for homestay. It can get a little overwhelming, just because the classes are so long, but it's really nice how thoroughly they are preparing us. I now know about five phrases in Luganda, but anything beyond that will get a bright smile and a confused look.
That's about all that has happened in the last week. I won't know where my site will be until the end of training, but I will begin language classes in the dialect that is spoken there starting next week. I hope to be able to update this somewhat regularly, but if not, I loooove getting letters! *cough, cough* You know, I reeeeally love letters. *wink, wink* Did I mention snail mail is my favorite ?
I hope you all are having a good time in the states. TTFN ( :
~Rachael
Friday, February 13, 2009
Contacting Me
Hey everybody!! This is going to have to be a quick post, since I'm checking out of the hotel in about 15 minutes. I just wanted to post how to get a hold of me. My pre-service training address is:
Rachael Nyberg-Hampton, PST
P.O. Box 29348
Kampala, Uganda
I believe it costs 92 cents to mail a letter. Also, it takes 3-4 weeks for a letter to arrive here or for you guys to get a letter. As far as packages go, the smaller the better. If you send anything, it's better if you do so in those small, manilla, bubble-wrapped envelopes. Oh yeah, make sure you put those "Air Mail" (Por Avion) stickers on the envelopes. This will also speed up the process.
Well, I think that's all for now. I'm leaving on a 6:30pm flight tonite for Brussels, then tomorrow morning at 7:30 for Uganda. I will be training for about 9 weeks and have been told to inform you all not to expect anything for a couple of months. Don't worry though! I'm keeping a regular journal as well, so I have a cheat sheet when I post ( : Thank you all for your well wishes. I love and miss you all!!!!!
~Rachael
Rachael Nyberg-Hampton, PST
P.O. Box 29348
Kampala, Uganda
I believe it costs 92 cents to mail a letter. Also, it takes 3-4 weeks for a letter to arrive here or for you guys to get a letter. As far as packages go, the smaller the better. If you send anything, it's better if you do so in those small, manilla, bubble-wrapped envelopes. Oh yeah, make sure you put those "Air Mail" (Por Avion) stickers on the envelopes. This will also speed up the process.
Well, I think that's all for now. I'm leaving on a 6:30pm flight tonite for Brussels, then tomorrow morning at 7:30 for Uganda. I will be training for about 9 weeks and have been told to inform you all not to expect anything for a couple of months. Don't worry though! I'm keeping a regular journal as well, so I have a cheat sheet when I post ( : Thank you all for your well wishes. I love and miss you all!!!!!
~Rachael
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Initiation of the blog!
Ok, so I have finally started the blog I hope to update somewhat regularly while I'm working in Uganda. As of now, I am T minus 12 days (aahhh, minor freakout!) until I leave for Philly for the Staging (aka Orientation) event. Then, on February 13, I'll be flying out to Uganda by way of Brussels. The fact that I'm leaving on Friday the 13th does not worry me, since 13 is Colgate's (shout out!) lucky number and Friday the 13ths are always causes for celebration. So, I'm taking that as a good omen.
Since this is my firsy post of my first blog, I'll just tell you all what the plan is for the next 12 days, since I have no idea what else to write. Actually, now that I think about it, that seems like a pretty boring topic, so how about this: I'll tell you what I'm going to do today and then ckeck in a couple of time before I leave, so I can get some nice blog writing practicing done. Today is all about the music! That's right, sitting in front of my computer and copying all my CD's onto my iTunes. Now, you may think this is a simple procedure that should take only a day. Weeell, let me fix that little misconception now. My computer is at least 4.5 years old (no point in getting a new one until I get back) and it has very special needs. When these needs are not met, it gets overloaded and does the only thing it can to defend itself... shut down. Now, here are its rules: If you try to copy more than 6 CDS at a time, I will freak out and shut down. If you try to play music at the same time I am ripping music, the number will drop from 6 to 3. If you try to do ANYTHING while ripping music, I will shut down at the most inopportune time in order to remind you how old and emotionally fragil I am. So, yeah, that's my deal for the day. Messing with an emotionally needy computer that doesn't respond to coaxing but shuts down after a good cursing session.
I'll be posting my mailing address, instructions and other odds and ends before I leave so we can all keep in touch. That's right, I expect letters! TTFN ( :
~Rachael
Since this is my firsy post of my first blog, I'll just tell you all what the plan is for the next 12 days, since I have no idea what else to write. Actually, now that I think about it, that seems like a pretty boring topic, so how about this: I'll tell you what I'm going to do today and then ckeck in a couple of time before I leave, so I can get some nice blog writing practicing done. Today is all about the music! That's right, sitting in front of my computer and copying all my CD's onto my iTunes. Now, you may think this is a simple procedure that should take only a day. Weeell, let me fix that little misconception now. My computer is at least 4.5 years old (no point in getting a new one until I get back) and it has very special needs. When these needs are not met, it gets overloaded and does the only thing it can to defend itself... shut down. Now, here are its rules: If you try to copy more than 6 CDS at a time, I will freak out and shut down. If you try to play music at the same time I am ripping music, the number will drop from 6 to 3. If you try to do ANYTHING while ripping music, I will shut down at the most inopportune time in order to remind you how old and emotionally fragil I am. So, yeah, that's my deal for the day. Messing with an emotionally needy computer that doesn't respond to coaxing but shuts down after a good cursing session.
I'll be posting my mailing address, instructions and other odds and ends before I leave so we can all keep in touch. That's right, I expect letters! TTFN ( :
~Rachael
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