Well, this is goodbye Uganda. So long, farewell, see you soon.
My time here in Uganda is rapidly coming to a close. I've been here just over 3 months and it feels weird to be leaving already. It feels like I only just arrived.
Packed up everything that I have and it all fits in 2 suitcases. My life in Uganda fits nicely into 2 suitcases.
Brittney and I were struggling a bit with getting our passports back. Our visas were only issued for 90 days and technically we are in the country for 97 days. The HR lady at ISU was who we were told to go to to get a renewal for the last 7 days. At first, she told me that we wouldn't get our passports back until Wed, which is the day we leave. I was a little worried that we couldn't get them back in time. Luckily, we got them one day before our journey back home. Emma, my CT, dropped the passports off to us last night. I got to say a final goodbye to her and her two daughters. I started getting teary eyed.
Last night, the girls at the guesthouse took Brittney and I out to Little Donkey for our final goodbye meal. It was really nice to get to spend more time with the friends that I have made out here. I feel lucky to have met some truly wonderful, genuine people here.
Currently, I'm at Coffee at Last, using up some free WiFi and hanging out with Phoebe, another wonderful woman that I've met.
It feels surreal to be heading back home to Georgia soon. It's like that feeling you get at the end of summer camp. You wanna stay and keep on playing. However, you know that summer is over and it's time to go home and go back to normal life.
Thanks for reading my blog about Uganda. Hopefully, I'll have another one full of different adventures.
See you soon.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Last few days approaching quickly
Well hello again.
So, as I'm sure most of you may be aware, I'm quickly approaching my last few days in Uganda. Friday was my last day at ISU, and it was really hard to believe. The students made me feel so much joy for having been able to be there teacher for the 3 months that I have lived here. On the last day, the homeroom teachers surprised me with a combining of all 3 homerooms, sat me in the middle of the room, and had the students tell me all the things they appreciated about me teaching them. It sunk in, really deeply, that I'm in the right profession for me.
Below are the photos from my last day. The last picture is all my girl students surrounding me to say goodbye.
So, as I'm sure most of you may be aware, I'm quickly approaching my last few days in Uganda. Friday was my last day at ISU, and it was really hard to believe. The students made me feel so much joy for having been able to be there teacher for the 3 months that I have lived here. On the last day, the homeroom teachers surprised me with a combining of all 3 homerooms, sat me in the middle of the room, and had the students tell me all the things they appreciated about me teaching them. It sunk in, really deeply, that I'm in the right profession for me.
Below are the photos from my last day. The last picture is all my girl students surrounding me to say goodbye.
Also, another important note to make, is that I celebrated the American holiday of Thanksgiving in Uganda. It was actually really nice to share a part of my culture, as apparently, us Americans have one. I spent my time with the girls of the guesthouse that I am staying in. Below are those pictures.
Happiest American in Uganda, yes, I think I totally was. I got me some pumpkin pie. A little slice of home.
To be honest, my last few days are making me homesick. I know that I will be home very shortly and I think after 3 months away, I'm ready to be back. The last few days are memories that will stick with me forever.
Thank you to everyone here in Uganda and at home for everything.
Georgia you are on my mind.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Malaria Test Kits and more
Well, this second to last week in Uganda has been quite an interesting one, I must say. The week has been fairly good, minus the constant power cuts the last few days and my incredibly sick body.
So, let's talk about this sickness stuff, cause it is quite entertaining. I have not missed one day of student teaching since I have arrived in Uganda. That is fairly normal for me, since I rarely call out of work. However, on Friday, I was feeling absolutely horrible. Thursday night, I was shivering, upset stomach, mild fever, body aches, and much more. I ended up being awake most of the night from all of this. So, likely enough, I missed work on Friday. Since I had the fever, one of the girls thought that I should get a malaria test kit just to be sure that it wasn't anything serious. Well, I had one of the doctor girls at the guest house perform the "malaria operation" on me. Luckily, it came back negative.
So, that's good, right? Not malaria, but then what on earth is wrong with me?! Still, I have no clue. I ran into my usual boda man and he said that I might need to be de-wormed.
Wait?! What?? De-wormed? Did I hear this correctly? Um, yeah, I sure did. And speaking with the "doctors" that I know, they all were inclined to agree with my boda man. Needless to say, I am in Africa and any sort of infection is totally possible. There is a place in Kololo called The Surgery that I need to find time to go to and have a once over. Just to make sure that I don't bring home any weird diseases that are not easily curable in the States.
However, on a slightly different note, I have a little more than a week left in Uganda. My time here is quickly flashing before my eyes. I feel like I have so little time left and so much more that I want to explore. All of my students keep asking me if I plan on returning and it makes me feel like I've made a positive impact on them. The fact that they keep asking and then getting upset when I say probably not makes it seem as though they like me. This is why I wanted to be a teacher, to be popular among 11 year olds. No, just kidding.
Well, I'll have to keep everyone updated on my strange, African sickness. Hopefully it is nothing serious and easily curable. That'd be nice.
Until we meet again....
So, let's talk about this sickness stuff, cause it is quite entertaining. I have not missed one day of student teaching since I have arrived in Uganda. That is fairly normal for me, since I rarely call out of work. However, on Friday, I was feeling absolutely horrible. Thursday night, I was shivering, upset stomach, mild fever, body aches, and much more. I ended up being awake most of the night from all of this. So, likely enough, I missed work on Friday. Since I had the fever, one of the girls thought that I should get a malaria test kit just to be sure that it wasn't anything serious. Well, I had one of the doctor girls at the guest house perform the "malaria operation" on me. Luckily, it came back negative.
So, that's good, right? Not malaria, but then what on earth is wrong with me?! Still, I have no clue. I ran into my usual boda man and he said that I might need to be de-wormed.
Wait?! What?? De-wormed? Did I hear this correctly? Um, yeah, I sure did. And speaking with the "doctors" that I know, they all were inclined to agree with my boda man. Needless to say, I am in Africa and any sort of infection is totally possible. There is a place in Kololo called The Surgery that I need to find time to go to and have a once over. Just to make sure that I don't bring home any weird diseases that are not easily curable in the States.
However, on a slightly different note, I have a little more than a week left in Uganda. My time here is quickly flashing before my eyes. I feel like I have so little time left and so much more that I want to explore. All of my students keep asking me if I plan on returning and it makes me feel like I've made a positive impact on them. The fact that they keep asking and then getting upset when I say probably not makes it seem as though they like me. This is why I wanted to be a teacher, to be popular among 11 year olds. No, just kidding.
Well, I'll have to keep everyone updated on my strange, African sickness. Hopefully it is nothing serious and easily curable. That'd be nice.
Until we meet again....
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
3 weeks left
Hello again,
It's been a few weeks since I've posted an update so I'd thought I'd write one. Although, the internet is not wanting to cooperate with me today.
It's weighing on me that I only have 3 weeks left in Uganda. I can remember when I first came, I thought to myself, 3 months is going to be forever. Now, with only 3 weeks left, I'm sad to leave.
Today in my Grade 6 homeroom, the students mentioned that there is only one month left in the term. I was reminded that I have 3 weeks left and then one month left until I graduate.
On Sunday, Izzie (a British doctor) and myself took a matatu (taxi bus) to the city of Entebbe. Matatus are an extremely cheap mode of transportation and only cost 8,000 UGX roundtrip. That is roughly $3 to go about 45 minutes to Entebbe. The city itself is cleaner and slower paced than the capital of Kampala. We ventured to Anna's Corner for coffee and brunch. Then walked to the Botanical Gardens which has a beautiful view of Lake Victoria. It is hard not to want to jump right into the water, but there is a nasty parasite called bilharzia (comes from snails) that I do not want to get. While at the Botanical Gardens, we were chased by black-faced monkeys and a local guy lounging in a shady, grassy area laughed at us. It felt nice to venture outside of Kampala, even if just for a few hours.
Suddenly, there seems like a lot to do, as I must finish a huge paper, write lessons, buy gifts, and spend time with the friends that I've met here. Everything seems to all be happening at once and I wish that time would just slow down so I could enjoy it all.
Well, this isn't what I was hoping I would say but it is what was said.
Thanks! and hopefully I'll update with pictures next.
It's been a few weeks since I've posted an update so I'd thought I'd write one. Although, the internet is not wanting to cooperate with me today.
It's weighing on me that I only have 3 weeks left in Uganda. I can remember when I first came, I thought to myself, 3 months is going to be forever. Now, with only 3 weeks left, I'm sad to leave.
Today in my Grade 6 homeroom, the students mentioned that there is only one month left in the term. I was reminded that I have 3 weeks left and then one month left until I graduate.
On Sunday, Izzie (a British doctor) and myself took a matatu (taxi bus) to the city of Entebbe. Matatus are an extremely cheap mode of transportation and only cost 8,000 UGX roundtrip. That is roughly $3 to go about 45 minutes to Entebbe. The city itself is cleaner and slower paced than the capital of Kampala. We ventured to Anna's Corner for coffee and brunch. Then walked to the Botanical Gardens which has a beautiful view of Lake Victoria. It is hard not to want to jump right into the water, but there is a nasty parasite called bilharzia (comes from snails) that I do not want to get. While at the Botanical Gardens, we were chased by black-faced monkeys and a local guy lounging in a shady, grassy area laughed at us. It felt nice to venture outside of Kampala, even if just for a few hours.
Suddenly, there seems like a lot to do, as I must finish a huge paper, write lessons, buy gifts, and spend time with the friends that I've met here. Everything seems to all be happening at once and I wish that time would just slow down so I could enjoy it all.
Well, this isn't what I was hoping I would say but it is what was said.
Thanks! and hopefully I'll update with pictures next.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Biking, Rafting, Safari... and more
Well, it certainly has been quite a while since I've updated my blog. Hmmm... lazy, or just super busy. Maybe a bit of both, let's be honest.
Alright, well I'll first start with the bicycle tour. Which, by the way, was absolutely amazing. I love going for bike rides anyway but I had the chance to go through a village right across Lake Victoria. Kampala is loud and, well, city like. Sometimes you just need different scenery. I wish I knew the name of the area that we biked through but I don't. I know that we biked up to Ggaba Beach and then took a local boat across the lake.
Our bikes on a local boat to go across the lake.
Alright, well I'll first start with the bicycle tour. Which, by the way, was absolutely amazing. I love going for bike rides anyway but I had the chance to go through a village right across Lake Victoria. Kampala is loud and, well, city like. Sometimes you just need different scenery. I wish I knew the name of the area that we biked through but I don't. I know that we biked up to Ggaba Beach and then took a local boat across the lake.
When we landed on the other side.
A picture of the adorable kids that I ended up playing a game with. The girls aren't pictured but there were two of them. I'd turn my head and the girls would creep, ever so slowly, toward me. Then I'd turn my head quickly and they would run off giggling. This happened several times but they put a huge smile on my face.
Next, on the blog agenda is, the trip to Jinja. Which was absolutely incredible! Jinja is completely different from Kampala. (Well, I mean it sort of is the same but only in the sense of shops.) Jinja is just slower and less crowded. When I was there I went horseback riding and rafting, for the first time ever. The Nile River is host to class 4 and 5 rapids, which is thrilling and terrifying all at the same time. My first flip and I was a little panicked but I made it.
First rapid! Oh which, we of course, flipped. But as you can see, there are kayaks there to help you if you go to far from the boat. Which I ended up having to utilize.
Our Uganda tour guide, Nathan, abandoning the raft on the last rapid. I think he left on purpose, what do you think?
The last thing I'll talk about if Murchison Falls. Another amazing safari trip and the second one that I've taken in Uganda. Unfortunately, I lost my camera to the depths of the river though. It's the Nile, I believe, but it's late so I don't exactly remember. I should confirm that though.
Two giraffes, one of which is stuck in a wire that was put there by poachers. We, of course, saved the giraffe.
Of course, the highlight was seeing elephants.
Well, I should go eat dinner now. Thanks for reading! And good night from Uganda.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Feeling touristy
Over the weekend, I was feeling a bit touristy since I feel like I have not gotten nearly enough pictures since I've been here. Saturday was such a beautiful day so Brittney and I ventured out to Coffee at Last. Basically that means that we walked down the hill.
Then met with the American doctor, Lana, and went to an area of town called Kisamenti. Brittney and I both took bodas out there and I got some pictures of my journey along the way. I was trying to catch Kampala traffic at its finest.
The picture does not show this, but we were zipping through the traffic. The boda drivers up ahead are coming toward me. Boda riding is fun but you have to be careful.
Lastly, these are the wonderful women that I've had the chance to meet and then spend Saturday night with. Left (me obviously), then Phoebe, Brittney, and Lana. I miss my girl friends back home, but these ladies have been absolutely wonderful and feel already like great friends!
I love life here in Uganda! :)
And no, the guy next to Brittney is not someone that we know.
Then met with the American doctor, Lana, and went to an area of town called Kisamenti. Brittney and I both took bodas out there and I got some pictures of my journey along the way. I was trying to catch Kampala traffic at its finest.
First thing, must wear a helmet!
Going down a hill, I forget the name of the road but it is a road that I have traveled a lot.
I love life here in Uganda! :)
Friday, October 4, 2013
Test Day for Grade 6
Good morning,
Today is test day for my Grade 6 classes, which is all 3 of them in which I teach. The test itself is going well and it is allowing me so much needed catch up time.
ISU has really placed a lot of my plate at the moment. I'm teaching 3 Grade 6 classes, one Grade 7 class, personal assisting a Grade 6 boy for 3 lessons a week, and I have to do a presentation about student motivation and transitions. Whew. That seems like a whole lot.
One of my collaborating teachers has been out sick since Wed so I have been planning all of Grade 7 lessons. I'm teaching a unit on magnetism and where I world normally love to have hands-on activities my Grade 7 has proven to me that they cannot be trusted. I attempted to let them look at iron filings, bar and horseshoe magnets but they nearly destroyed the materials cause they were playing the whole time. Each time that I tried to get their attention they would not listen or follow directions. Needless to say, I'm a bit annoyed, can you tell?
As their punishment for today, they will not be able to have an interactive lesson. They will be reading from their textbook, listening to me lecture at them (so boring!), and taking notes. This is the sort of dreaded lesson that I never wanted to have to plan. However, I cannot let these students disrespect me and the materials. So, I must put my foot down.
Other than that, my time in Uganda has been going well. Recently, I planned a trip to go rafting on the Nile in Jinja. Also, going to Murchison Falls for a safari. I think I'm going to try to find a walking tour to go on soon. One of the housemates went on a walking tour and really enjoyed it. Seeing as I am a social studies major as well, I think that I should see more of Kampala.
Hopefully more pictures soon to come!
Today is test day for my Grade 6 classes, which is all 3 of them in which I teach. The test itself is going well and it is allowing me so much needed catch up time.
ISU has really placed a lot of my plate at the moment. I'm teaching 3 Grade 6 classes, one Grade 7 class, personal assisting a Grade 6 boy for 3 lessons a week, and I have to do a presentation about student motivation and transitions. Whew. That seems like a whole lot.
One of my collaborating teachers has been out sick since Wed so I have been planning all of Grade 7 lessons. I'm teaching a unit on magnetism and where I world normally love to have hands-on activities my Grade 7 has proven to me that they cannot be trusted. I attempted to let them look at iron filings, bar and horseshoe magnets but they nearly destroyed the materials cause they were playing the whole time. Each time that I tried to get their attention they would not listen or follow directions. Needless to say, I'm a bit annoyed, can you tell?
As their punishment for today, they will not be able to have an interactive lesson. They will be reading from their textbook, listening to me lecture at them (so boring!), and taking notes. This is the sort of dreaded lesson that I never wanted to have to plan. However, I cannot let these students disrespect me and the materials. So, I must put my foot down.
Other than that, my time in Uganda has been going well. Recently, I planned a trip to go rafting on the Nile in Jinja. Also, going to Murchison Falls for a safari. I think I'm going to try to find a walking tour to go on soon. One of the housemates went on a walking tour and really enjoyed it. Seeing as I am a social studies major as well, I think that I should see more of Kampala.
Hopefully more pictures soon to come!
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Almost 4 weeks in
So, now I've been here for about 4 weeks and I'm definitely starting to get used to things in Uganda. Like I've said, a lot before, it is very different but I am beginning to really starting to like it out here.
Cooking so far is still the most challenging thing for me to do because I'm not the best cook at home, but I am certainly trying. There isn't like a one stop shop for food here like there is at home so that is taking some getting used to. However, I have discovered some good places to go and get the food that I need. Everything is so fresh, or too fresh, so I'm learning quickly how to tell if fruits and veggies are good or not.
Recently, I made the decision to just start riding boda bodas, which are a motorcycle taxi. The key is to find one that is nice, reliable, and safe. There are some numbers of boda drivers on the fridge in the house that I'm staying at and I called one last night to take me to town. It is the cheapest and fastest way to get around town. Not having a car has been challenging because I'm used to just being able to go wherever I want whenever I want. Now I'm having to rely on others outside of myself to help me get around. At first I was using special hires, which are personal drivers. They are very useful but are a much more expensive way to have to get around town. I'd say they are good if you are going out in a large group or doing some serious grocery shopping.
So last night, I went to the National Theater and attended the Bayimba Festival. It was an international festival that was in Kampala. The musicians that were there were from all over Africa and there was one from Brazil. It was a really interesting event and I was impressed that something that big was planned and executed well. I made my Israeli friend, Hagit, go with me. We also discovered what Silent Disco is, which was actually quite fun. The festival had crafts and food for sale. It was really cheap. Only 1000 Ugandan shillings which is $0.40 to enter.
I'm glad to be feeling more comfortable in Uganda and it feels good to have found a boda driver that is reliable and safe.
Hopefully more from me later!
Cooking so far is still the most challenging thing for me to do because I'm not the best cook at home, but I am certainly trying. There isn't like a one stop shop for food here like there is at home so that is taking some getting used to. However, I have discovered some good places to go and get the food that I need. Everything is so fresh, or too fresh, so I'm learning quickly how to tell if fruits and veggies are good or not.
Recently, I made the decision to just start riding boda bodas, which are a motorcycle taxi. The key is to find one that is nice, reliable, and safe. There are some numbers of boda drivers on the fridge in the house that I'm staying at and I called one last night to take me to town. It is the cheapest and fastest way to get around town. Not having a car has been challenging because I'm used to just being able to go wherever I want whenever I want. Now I'm having to rely on others outside of myself to help me get around. At first I was using special hires, which are personal drivers. They are very useful but are a much more expensive way to have to get around town. I'd say they are good if you are going out in a large group or doing some serious grocery shopping.
So last night, I went to the National Theater and attended the Bayimba Festival. It was an international festival that was in Kampala. The musicians that were there were from all over Africa and there was one from Brazil. It was a really interesting event and I was impressed that something that big was planned and executed well. I made my Israeli friend, Hagit, go with me. We also discovered what Silent Disco is, which was actually quite fun. The festival had crafts and food for sale. It was really cheap. Only 1000 Ugandan shillings which is $0.40 to enter.
I'm glad to be feeling more comfortable in Uganda and it feels good to have found a boda driver that is reliable and safe.
Hopefully more from me later!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Exploring and teaching
Well, hello everyone that reads my posts about Uganda.
This post will be about some exploration that I've done and about my first mini-lesson that I just taught.
So, let's start with last weekend. There is an Israeli girl that is staying at the same place where I am staying. She's a bit adventurous and convinced me to take a bodaboda (motorcycle taxi) out to Ggaba and check out a local market. With little hesitation, I said yes and grabbed a helmet and we were off. Luckily, haggling is like her full time job so I let her do most of the talking. She had me try a rolex which is flatbread, egg, tomatoes, and onion all cooked and fried up together. They are really delicious but they should only be a once a week snack.
Here is the guy that we got our rolex from...
I have never seen food prepared so openly on the street. It was quite an experience.
Then we looked around Lake Victoria and the local market for second hand clothes.
Here is Lake Victoria
The local people fish out of the lake and then sell what they catch to the highest bidder
This post will be about some exploration that I've done and about my first mini-lesson that I just taught.
So, let's start with last weekend. There is an Israeli girl that is staying at the same place where I am staying. She's a bit adventurous and convinced me to take a bodaboda (motorcycle taxi) out to Ggaba and check out a local market. With little hesitation, I said yes and grabbed a helmet and we were off. Luckily, haggling is like her full time job so I let her do most of the talking. She had me try a rolex which is flatbread, egg, tomatoes, and onion all cooked and fried up together. They are really delicious but they should only be a once a week snack.
Here is the guy that we got our rolex from...
Then we looked around Lake Victoria and the local market for second hand clothes.
Here is Lake Victoria
The whole market was really interesting and I enjoyed getting to witness something very different from what I have at home.
Today, I taught a mini-lesson using BrainPop which can be quite inconvenient when the internet goes down (which is often in Uganda). Overall the lesson covered the human organ systems and both of my collaborating teachers thought that I did very well. I'm glad that I have taught a mini-lesson and gotten my feet wet with teaching so now the kids will learn that I am also a teacher in the room.
Well, gotta go teach 7th period!
Friday, September 6, 2013
Saturday Morning Post
Well, I'm not really sure how many days that I have been here in Kampala and it's early so I don't plan on doing that math.
First week at school has been a really big success. The teachers at the Senior School are all really helpful and very willing to do what they can. On Wednesday, my computer cord had fried and I had no access to my financial aid (which is all my money!). I felt defeated and like everything that could go wrong, was going wrong. It was a very helpless feeling. But, I told my collaborating teacher, and others at the school about my situation and everyone had wonderful advice to give. Apparently, when you first live out here, nothing is very easy but with time you can gradually figure everything out. Needless to say, my computer cord is fixed and now I have a spare with a Ugandan plug.
My students are the sweetest. I'm really enjoying having 6th and 7th graders. There are several of my students that are very limited on English but I'm working with them to try to build up their confidence. There is this adorable French boy who is very limited in English. We were having a class discussion about different organs, and I walked up to him quietly and asked him if he could name an organ. He could and he gave me one that had not already been said so I raised his hand in the air so he could also participate in the class discussion. My goodness, the look of pride and joy on his face made it worth it.
So... I guess I could review previous stuff that has happened.
1. Visited the equator.
and 2. Saw a leopard
Those have the biggest adventures so far but trust me.... there will be more.
First week at school has been a really big success. The teachers at the Senior School are all really helpful and very willing to do what they can. On Wednesday, my computer cord had fried and I had no access to my financial aid (which is all my money!). I felt defeated and like everything that could go wrong, was going wrong. It was a very helpless feeling. But, I told my collaborating teacher, and others at the school about my situation and everyone had wonderful advice to give. Apparently, when you first live out here, nothing is very easy but with time you can gradually figure everything out. Needless to say, my computer cord is fixed and now I have a spare with a Ugandan plug.
My students are the sweetest. I'm really enjoying having 6th and 7th graders. There are several of my students that are very limited on English but I'm working with them to try to build up their confidence. There is this adorable French boy who is very limited in English. We were having a class discussion about different organs, and I walked up to him quietly and asked him if he could name an organ. He could and he gave me one that had not already been said so I raised his hand in the air so he could also participate in the class discussion. My goodness, the look of pride and joy on his face made it worth it.
So... I guess I could review previous stuff that has happened.
1. Visited the equator.
and 2. Saw a leopard
Those have the biggest adventures so far but trust me.... there will be more.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Uganda Day 5
Today is our 5th day in Uganda. It is pretty exciting that we finally
adventured out to Coffee at Last place right down the road from our house. We needed to get out of the house and
adventure around the town that we live in.
The last few days have felt like a total dream. We went to Lake Mburo for a safari trip. We had a drive through the national park and
saw zebras, bushbucks, and black faced monkeys.
Then we took a boat ride around the lake and were able to view a wide variety
of birds, hippos, crocodiles, and a water buffalo. After the boat ride, we sat down and were
able to relax before our night safari.
We were on the lookout for leopards.
Dr. Bryan’s friend said that he knew of a leopard and her baby near the
lake. All of us were hoping to see the
baby leopard. The first animal that we
saw was a hippo out of the water. Of
course I took a picture even though it did not turn out very well. Then after what felt like forever we spotted
the leopard. I was able to capture the
moment in a picture but everyone was so excited, the driver, our tour guide,
and of course all of us girls. After we
saw the leopard, everyone was ready to go and get some dinner.
The resort that we stayed in was amazing. It was called the Eagle’s Nest and the staff
was so amazingly nice. The food was
delicious and so was the view.
Everything about the trip just seemed surreal. I mean, I went on a safari in Uganda. I’m still thinking about how in the world I
got this lucky to come and experience this life.
Last night, we went out for a night on the town. Natalie picked us up from Claire’s and we
went to a very delicious dinner. Then we
went to a few dance clubs. The first one
that we went to made Brittney and I a little uncomfortable. I think Natalie and Paul could sense that so
we went to another place and there we felt like we were home. There was a wide variety of people and it was
a lot of fun.
Today, we are spending the day with Natalie and exploring
more of the city. I’m so excited and I
really look forward to staying.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
One more day
Well, there is only one more day left until I'm on an airplane and on my way to Uganda. To be honest, I can't even believe that this is about to really happen. It is only just now starting to sink in that I'm really about to go to Africa! I'm slightly terrified and yet excited all rolled into one. My Mom recently told me that she is really proud of me for having the courage to go and that she wishes my grandma and grandpa were here to see me because she knows that they would be proud of me too.
My wonderful boyfriend and friends surprised me last night with a bon voyage dinner at my favorite sushi restaurant. That definitely made me feel really loved and it was fabulous to see my friends before I go. Seeing all my friends before I go was really fabulous. I was able to make some really happy memories that I can take with me on my journey. Since I've been working so much I haven't been able to see anyone cause I've been so tired. However, my friends are awesome and made sure to spend time with me before I depart.
So on today's agenda, I need to do my laundry, finish packing, spend time with my dogs, run a ton of errands and enjoy my new couch. (I did an adult thing and bought a washer/dryer set and new couch before I go.) My feet have been killing me since I've been working so much lately that sitting down on my couch will be so fabulous. Luckily, I convinced my boss to let me have today off. Thank goodness for that cause I really needed today off. I don't think I could have worked another day. However, the job served its purpose because I made easy money before I left.
Recently, I've been emailing with my CT (collaborative teacher) in Uganda and found out that I will be teaching 6th grade science. I couldn't be more ecstatic. When I completed TOSS, I taught 8th grade science and loved it so I'm excited to be able to teach 6th graders now. I really hope that I do a good job teaching because I'm worried I might now. Since I took the summer off I feel like I've somehow forgotten what to do. I'm sure that isn't true but it's what swirling in my head.
Well....I need to begin the process of my last day in the states. Wish me luck and I'll update soon!
My wonderful boyfriend and friends surprised me last night with a bon voyage dinner at my favorite sushi restaurant. That definitely made me feel really loved and it was fabulous to see my friends before I go. Seeing all my friends before I go was really fabulous. I was able to make some really happy memories that I can take with me on my journey. Since I've been working so much I haven't been able to see anyone cause I've been so tired. However, my friends are awesome and made sure to spend time with me before I depart.
So on today's agenda, I need to do my laundry, finish packing, spend time with my dogs, run a ton of errands and enjoy my new couch. (I did an adult thing and bought a washer/dryer set and new couch before I go.) My feet have been killing me since I've been working so much lately that sitting down on my couch will be so fabulous. Luckily, I convinced my boss to let me have today off. Thank goodness for that cause I really needed today off. I don't think I could have worked another day. However, the job served its purpose because I made easy money before I left.
Recently, I've been emailing with my CT (collaborative teacher) in Uganda and found out that I will be teaching 6th grade science. I couldn't be more ecstatic. When I completed TOSS, I taught 8th grade science and loved it so I'm excited to be able to teach 6th graders now. I really hope that I do a good job teaching because I'm worried I might now. Since I took the summer off I feel like I've somehow forgotten what to do. I'm sure that isn't true but it's what swirling in my head.
Well....I need to begin the process of my last day in the states. Wish me luck and I'll update soon!
Monday, August 12, 2013
2 Weeks Until Go Time...
So, I realized that it has been a while since I've updated the blog. Trying to still get used to actually keeping track of my life and specifically Uganda updates.
Alright, so as of today, I leave in exactly 2 weeks. The time is ticking away and I'm scrambling trying to prepare myself. Good news though, I was able to obtain a cell phone from Natalie (who has already been to Uganda and will be there upon my arrival). Of course, I wanted to add a picture of the phone because it is super high tech, but I can't find it. Therefore, I'll be digging for it again when I'm finished with this blog.
Tomorrow, I'm scheduled for another round of my Hepatitis A & B shot. That will be fun. After the shots though, I'll be working. Yes, that is right. Working. I picked up a seasonal job at the bookstore across the street from KSU. Actually, I'm glad to have a job cause I need money. I mean, I'm a broke college student (and I'm not 22) and I'm about to head to Africa. A job is really a wonderful thing at the moment. However, I'm not used to working so even though the job is not hard, it's still rough. At least I have the opportunity to make money though.
Here is something random. I bought my malaria medicine from India. I hope that it won't be a problem. I'd image not, but you know, it is medicine from India. It was super cheap and since I don't have insurance, it seemed worth it. Hopefully nothing will go awry. Speaking of medicine, I think I got everything ready to go. All my medicine has been picked up and is ready to go and just the last shot for tomorrow.
My biggest worry is just my dogs.
I mean, look at these cute boys! I'm worried to leave them for 3 months but I know that Shane will do a good job taking care of them.
Well, I think I'm done blogging for now. I'll update again soon.
Alright, so as of today, I leave in exactly 2 weeks. The time is ticking away and I'm scrambling trying to prepare myself. Good news though, I was able to obtain a cell phone from Natalie (who has already been to Uganda and will be there upon my arrival). Of course, I wanted to add a picture of the phone because it is super high tech, but I can't find it. Therefore, I'll be digging for it again when I'm finished with this blog.
Tomorrow, I'm scheduled for another round of my Hepatitis A & B shot. That will be fun. After the shots though, I'll be working. Yes, that is right. Working. I picked up a seasonal job at the bookstore across the street from KSU. Actually, I'm glad to have a job cause I need money. I mean, I'm a broke college student (and I'm not 22) and I'm about to head to Africa. A job is really a wonderful thing at the moment. However, I'm not used to working so even though the job is not hard, it's still rough. At least I have the opportunity to make money though.
Here is something random. I bought my malaria medicine from India. I hope that it won't be a problem. I'd image not, but you know, it is medicine from India. It was super cheap and since I don't have insurance, it seemed worth it. Hopefully nothing will go awry. Speaking of medicine, I think I got everything ready to go. All my medicine has been picked up and is ready to go and just the last shot for tomorrow.
My biggest worry is just my dogs.
I mean, look at these cute boys! I'm worried to leave them for 3 months but I know that Shane will do a good job taking care of them.
Well, I think I'm done blogging for now. I'll update again soon.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Shots, Shots, and well... more shots
Well, let's just start with "Happy Birthday, me!" Okay, now that we got that out of the way, I'll go ahead and say ouch. I had to get shots for my upcoming trip to Uganda, to which this blog is dedicated.
Unfortunately, I needed a total of 4 shots and a typhoid vaccine that is in a pill form (thank goodness). I received yellow fever, dTap, and meningitis in my left arm and a hepatitis A & B combo shot in my right. Needless to say it seriously hurt but a very good nurse friend of mine forced me into doing push-ups so the dTap (tetanus) shot didn't completely debilitate me. I have had to warn people to hug me gently because poke my sore arm and I will be very upset.
Part of me feels good for having gotten all the shots but it sure was a lot. I'm truly hoping that my experience there will make all of this worth it. Not that I'm having doubts, okay, well maybe a little. But that is normal, right? I mean, let's think about it. I'm a college kid, also 27 (as of today), and I'm not currently working. I mean, this is a huge financial decision that I'm making. On top of the fact that I'm graduating in December with an education degree, let's just say December is not the time to be looking for teacher jobs. There is definitely some scary aspect to a lot of this. However, this will be the experience of a lifetime. One of my bestest buds is coming with me and really what more could a girl ask for? Trip to Africa, with a wonderful girlfriend no less.
Just need to learn to trust the process and know that everything will be alright.
Unfortunately, I needed a total of 4 shots and a typhoid vaccine that is in a pill form (thank goodness). I received yellow fever, dTap, and meningitis in my left arm and a hepatitis A & B combo shot in my right. Needless to say it seriously hurt but a very good nurse friend of mine forced me into doing push-ups so the dTap (tetanus) shot didn't completely debilitate me. I have had to warn people to hug me gently because poke my sore arm and I will be very upset.
Part of me feels good for having gotten all the shots but it sure was a lot. I'm truly hoping that my experience there will make all of this worth it. Not that I'm having doubts, okay, well maybe a little. But that is normal, right? I mean, let's think about it. I'm a college kid, also 27 (as of today), and I'm not currently working. I mean, this is a huge financial decision that I'm making. On top of the fact that I'm graduating in December with an education degree, let's just say December is not the time to be looking for teacher jobs. There is definitely some scary aspect to a lot of this. However, this will be the experience of a lifetime. One of my bestest buds is coming with me and really what more could a girl ask for? Trip to Africa, with a wonderful girlfriend no less.
Just need to learn to trust the process and know that everything will be alright.
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Plane tickets are purchased
Well, it is now official. The plane tickets to Uganda have been purchased and $1800 later there is no backing out now. There is a weird mixture of excitement and reservation that has overcome me. I am super excited to go on this journey but now I am nervous. Perhaps I am nervous because now it is really happening and it isn't just a dream anymore. The dream is actually coming to life.
The tickets that we purchased are through Delta which is who the international coordinator suggested we fly through. Brittney and I are going to first fly to Amsterdam, then to Rwanda, and then to Entebbe. We begin our journey on August 26th at 5:35 pm and we will not arrive in Entebbe, Uganda until August 27th at 10:15 pm. The total hours of traveling will be roughly 17 hours not including layovers to arrive in Uganda. That's a long travel time and will be the longest that I have ever traveled.
Luckily, the flight home should be a little better. We will depart on December 4th at 11:30 pm and return to Atlanta, Georgia on December 5th at 2:40 pm. Considering Brittney and I will be 7 hours ahead we may be really jet lagged.
I cannot believe that this is all really happening. I have already received an email letting me know that I have been assigned a collaborating teacher. At this point, I have not yet emailed her but I should attempt to begin correspondence with her. Recently, I just finished my first paid teaching job as a co-lead for the Fast Start Academy at Kennesaw State. Now that the program is over, I am feeling more confident as an educator and ready to start my student teaching.
My dreams are coming true. I am definitely scared but I'm ready.
The tickets that we purchased are through Delta which is who the international coordinator suggested we fly through. Brittney and I are going to first fly to Amsterdam, then to Rwanda, and then to Entebbe. We begin our journey on August 26th at 5:35 pm and we will not arrive in Entebbe, Uganda until August 27th at 10:15 pm. The total hours of traveling will be roughly 17 hours not including layovers to arrive in Uganda. That's a long travel time and will be the longest that I have ever traveled.
Luckily, the flight home should be a little better. We will depart on December 4th at 11:30 pm and return to Atlanta, Georgia on December 5th at 2:40 pm. Considering Brittney and I will be 7 hours ahead we may be really jet lagged.
I cannot believe that this is all really happening. I have already received an email letting me know that I have been assigned a collaborating teacher. At this point, I have not yet emailed her but I should attempt to begin correspondence with her. Recently, I just finished my first paid teaching job as a co-lead for the Fast Start Academy at Kennesaw State. Now that the program is over, I am feeling more confident as an educator and ready to start my student teaching.
My dreams are coming true. I am definitely scared but I'm ready.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Immunizations and Stuff
So, I just recently made an appointment with the health clinic to get all the CDC recommended shots for Uganda. Needles really freak me out and I'm not even sure how much all of this will cost me. I believe the only shots I will need are the typhoid, yellow fever, and rabies. Yes, I said rabies. This is recommended by the CDC so I am not going to fight their recommendations. Then I will need malaria pills where I will take the pills one month before arrival in Uganda.
Oh the joys of going out of the country for a long period of time. These are not the things that I like to do but they are the necessary things that have to happen.
My dream of going to Africa are becoming more real to me everyday. With each step in the process, it feels more real. I read the book, What is the What, which sparked my interest in the country of Africa. The book is about the Sudanese lost boys and the journey that they embarked upon for survival. I also read The Poison Wood Bible where a family of missionaries goes to the Congo and experiences something that changes them forever.
This is what this trip means to me, to figure out what I am really made of. I've never left the safety of my life. Now is the opportunity for me to go out into the world and find me. This is the journey, adventure, life changing experience that I will take with me forever.
Oh the joys of going out of the country for a long period of time. These are not the things that I like to do but they are the necessary things that have to happen.
My dream of going to Africa are becoming more real to me everyday. With each step in the process, it feels more real. I read the book, What is the What, which sparked my interest in the country of Africa. The book is about the Sudanese lost boys and the journey that they embarked upon for survival. I also read The Poison Wood Bible where a family of missionaries goes to the Congo and experiences something that changes them forever.
This is what this trip means to me, to figure out what I am really made of. I've never left the safety of my life. Now is the opportunity for me to go out into the world and find me. This is the journey, adventure, life changing experience that I will take with me forever.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Beginning
Hey everyone!
This is my blog that will be about my travels in the country of Uganda. The trip is quickly approaching and I am trying to prepare myself.
Recently, I went to the Re-Entry seminar where the students that were abroad shared their experiences of their travels. Having the chance to speak with the women who went to Uganda for student teaching have just made me so much more excited about the chance to go abroad. There was 3 women that went and gave my friend and I lots of useful advice, like bring a flashlight and lots of bug spray. I am definitely worried about being gone for 3 months but it will be good to have my friend Brittney with me and the support of the women that I met.
I wrote a list of some of the things that the women told me to bring:
-toilet paper
-flashlight
-sunscreen
-mirror
-bug spray
-universal adapter
-fan
-batteries
-light clothes
-first aid kit
-atomic clock
These items are only some of things that I need to make sure that I bring with me when I leave. The international field coordinator just emailed me this morning so I can verify the housing that I will have while in Kampala. I decided to take the $10/day room so I could have some room to breathe. Also, the coordinator emailed me about taking a safari for 3 days prior to starting the student teaching. I am so excited about going on a safari and seeing Timon & Pumba in their natural habitat.
This is my blog that will be about my travels in the country of Uganda. The trip is quickly approaching and I am trying to prepare myself.
Recently, I went to the Re-Entry seminar where the students that were abroad shared their experiences of their travels. Having the chance to speak with the women who went to Uganda for student teaching have just made me so much more excited about the chance to go abroad. There was 3 women that went and gave my friend and I lots of useful advice, like bring a flashlight and lots of bug spray. I am definitely worried about being gone for 3 months but it will be good to have my friend Brittney with me and the support of the women that I met.
I wrote a list of some of the things that the women told me to bring:
-toilet paper
-flashlight
-sunscreen
-mirror
-bug spray
-universal adapter
-fan
-batteries
-light clothes
-first aid kit
-atomic clock
These items are only some of things that I need to make sure that I bring with me when I leave. The international field coordinator just emailed me this morning so I can verify the housing that I will have while in Kampala. I decided to take the $10/day room so I could have some room to breathe. Also, the coordinator emailed me about taking a safari for 3 days prior to starting the student teaching. I am so excited about going on a safari and seeing Timon & Pumba in their natural habitat.
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