June 19th, 2011

June 19th, 2011


It was a casual Sunday with church this morning and just kickin it with the kids most of the day. It happens to be Father’s Day in America today. I am most incredibly thankful for what my dad has contributed to my life. I couldn’t of asked for a better father and am so grateful for him being the role model in my life that lets me know how a true man should be.

On a different note, the volunteer coordinator, Sally, came today so the kids welcomed her with a few awesome songs. This next week is going to be a lot different because Jill, another volunteer, left today and a few more new ones will be coming on wednesday. I have loved the group we have had for the past week and this new crew will take some getting used to. It is weird to think I have only really been here two weeks myself. It feels like it has been so much longer just because of all the things I have learned and all the new experiences that have come my way. It has always been said that the days here are long, but the weeks feel short. Somehow I agree with that. Everyday feels like it takes forever and I am able to experience so much at once. Looking back on these two weeks they have really gone by fast. It is safe to say that the saying is true.

Iganga is becoming easier to manage on a day to day basis. I can casually walk into town and up to Musana without worrying about getting lost. The money has become easier to deal with and the town has become a lot more familiar. I think even the people here are even becoming more used to my presence, despite the continual stares I get. I don’t think walking through town will ever be ordinary. No matter how long you have been here, everyone still eyeballs you all the time and you are certainly somewhat of a celebrity among all these people.

Traveling here has made me want to purchase a motorcycle of my own. I love riding on the back of the Boda and it just seems a lot more practical and easier to get around most places. It is a bit dangerous at times, but the only major accident I have heard about so far was two large buses colliding in a totally different city. Really, the motorcycles here seem to be on of the best ways to get around if you are by yourself or have only one other person with you. It is nice how the taxi rides are relatively cheap too. A trip to Jinja usually only costs 2000 shillings. I am certainly willing to pay a dollar for a 30 to 40 min ride. I think a lot about how wealthy most white people are compared to the people here. I can’t imagine how a celebrity in America would feel if they came here. All there money would like double. It is pretty ridiculous sometimes. I definitely enjoy bartering with people too. I don’t think asking to pay a lower price for something at king soopers or walmart would ever fly. People would think you were crazy.

Again hope all dads had a great father’s day.....especially mine, cus he wins against all other dads.....I love him dearly and can’t wait to do some traveling with him.....aight lates