tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86536351297555026572024-03-14T07:01:01.147+03:00Off-Script: My Ugandan Vision QuestMy journey to the African Continent to reconnect to myself and discover my next calling.Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-62525968774433076272012-08-31T13:36:00.003+03:002012-08-31T13:36:57.211+03:00End of my Peace Corps Journey..beginning of next..Destination Unknown..and POETRYWell one year ended up being the length of my Peace Corps Journey. On August 24th I Early Terminated (ET'd) from Peace Corps and feel appreciative of the experience and delighted to be moving on...though it comes with some sadness of having to leave the special people I met over the last 12 months. Just before I left my computer was stolen from my hotel room in Kampala. So I lost most of my photos of this life milestone. However, the images are etched in my mind, and its all good and OK. Compared to the emotional devastation and poverty I witnessed, I know I am rich beyond measure and this is just a little inconvenience. <br />
<br />
Below is a letter I sent to my classmates and it sums up my sentiments at this time.<br />
<br />
Dear PCV Class of Aug 2011....my friends<br />
Yes I ET'd and its not a sad thing at all. So dont take my experience<br />
to a negative conclusion...it was perfect for me.<br />
<br />
My 1 year in Peace Corps was amazing in both it's depths of euphoria<br />
and depression. In my soul I knew I had to come, and In my soul I knew<br />
when I was finished and needed to leave.<br />
<br />
I came to the conclusion that the universe was determined to make sure<br />
I did not settle in to my Peace Corps "job". My sites were very<br />
difficult ...resembling bad Ugandan soap operas, my experience with PC<br />
Uganda were at times comical in their mishandling....even when they<br />
tried to handle me well, my body was not cooperating, and my sister<br />
had a family crises in the middle of all this. So an early exit was<br />
the right course of action.<br />
<br />
Because I never could get engaged in my work, I was forced to focus<br />
inward and navel gaze a great deal of the time. I was blessed with<br />
uncovering a new passion in writing poetry and given the luxury of<br />
reading and learning more than I likely will ever be able to do again.<br />
These activities occurred in the back drop of a 3rd world country and<br />
left me with life long gifts of understanding and knowledge that were<br />
just what I needed at this time in my life.<br />
<br />
While in Uganda I made a few real Ugandan friends, and these are the<br />
people I choose to remember as true Ugandans. The corrupt and lazy<br />
discouraged me, but I know they are not representative of my Uganda.<br />
<br />
As an added bonus, I also met some of the most talented, interesting<br />
and selfless Americans. I have new daughters, sons, sisters and<br />
brothers and I will cherish all of your unique and quirky ways long<br />
into the future. Each of you showed me the world through a different<br />
lens and expanded my life.<br />
<br />
Try to nourish the noble parts of yourself and not let negativity<br />
reduce your legacies. It is tough at times and we all stumble, but do<br />
not succumb to bitterness and apathy. Each of us has seen beauty<br />
shining through poverty and this has changed us forever.<br />
<br />
Peace,<br />
Karla<br />
<br />
I am now in Switzerland with my sister for two months before returning home to the USA. I can honestly say I love our country with all its blemishes and quirks, and for me, it is still the best place to live. Over the last 12 months I read a great deal of history and fell in love again with the principles our country was founded on. We must remain diligent in teaching these to each generation or we will end up losing our country to the illusion shown on"reality TV".<br />
<br />
POETRY<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Timeout August 11, 2012</u></b></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Sometimes its best</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To put ourselves in timeout</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To stop</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To think</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To take a deep breath</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To avoid being rash</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Following impulses</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">We likely would regret</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Timeout for Adults</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Is more difficult to achieve</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">This requires one</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To step away</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">From everything</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Most of us won’t do it</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Walk out on career,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Home, family, parenthood</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Our protected image</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Checkout, withdraw</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">But I needed</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">To be in timeout</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">For me it was</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">A bit extreme</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I’m told I’m overly enthusiastic</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">However, I challenge the adjective <i>overly</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">And accept the accusation</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Of<i> enthusiastic</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I consider it part</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Of my endearing charm</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Something uniquely me</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Graced from above</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">…But I digress</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">My timeout</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">My year wandering in the wilderness</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Took more effort</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">More courage</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">More learning</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Than I imagined</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">What I learned is that</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">It was absolutely necessary</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">So I could be changed back</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Into my essential self</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Fall in love with me</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">My best true friend</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Drop the duties</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Required by guilt</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">That were destroying me</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">And my loved ones</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">One drop at a time</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The lessons I learned…</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Quit the rat race – the rats win every time</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Fall in love with yourself</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">You are not meant to conform to the mean</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Change yourself – leave everyone else alone</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Don’t buy what they sell on TV – Its Crap!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Be delighted with who and what you have</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">See the beauty and splendor of your loved ones</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Discount their faults – the mirror reflects a glass house</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Don’t write your story – it will write itself</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">…and it will end beautifully, if you let go</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Of engineering the ending</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The best part <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8653635129755502657" name="0.2__GoBack"></a>of life is the people – the rest is fluff</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Without the blessing of a just and healthy civil society – its 100% harder</span> </span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Now I am ready</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To return</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">From Timeout</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">My 12 months</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Of navel gazing is complete</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I’m ready to enthusiastically</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Re-enter the arena</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Changed back to</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The better distilled version</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Of me!</span> </span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">She Awoke</span><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"> August 11, 2012</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
She said <span style="font-style: italic;">I have to leave</span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Whether he understood or not</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
That her heart was imploding</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And her mind was racing</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
In panicked uncontrolled directions</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
That she could not breathe easily</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Or smile without breaking into a sweat</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
She laughed nervously</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And said <span style="font-style: italic;">Really, I have to leave</span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;">…Now</span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And though she did not know why</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Or where she was going</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
She left</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Trusting the path would be illuminated</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
If she took the first step</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
To others she appeared disturbed</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
…And she was</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
With intention she left</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Only sure that leaving was her salvation</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And thus began her long walk through the desert</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Life reduced to the bare essentials</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Even less</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Late at night</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
She faced herself without distraction</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
She listened and thought and prayed</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And did it again</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And again</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Waiting for direction to be revealed</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
Until one day</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
She awoke</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And the world seemed settled</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And the turmoil was over</div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And she said <span style="font-style: italic;">I need to go home</span></div>
<div style="margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
And she knew exactly where that was</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-21908672284262463052012-08-05T18:52:00.001+03:002012-08-05T20:21:14.090+03:001Month in Fort Portal-Mugusu Market-Poetry<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
August 5<sup>th</sup> 2012<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Month in Fort Portal - 1Year in Uganda - Well it’s been a
journey to say the least<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fort Portal – I arrived here 1 month ago and have done a
good bit. Shortly after arriving I met up with a fellow PCV and we went to
Mugusu Market with a local missionary woman whose family has lived here for 9
years. She and her husband are raising two young kids here. I cannot imagine
living that life…but I admire them. Mugusu market is a large weekly market
about 10 kilometers outside of Fort Portal. If you ever wonder where our
donated old clothes go to be reincarnated – its in Mugusu. You can also buy all
the local vegetables there too, but I did not get any pics of those. What is
striking are the gorgeous flowering trees that no one seems to notice but me. Robert what do you think of these trees!<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_cjsVgJ6X2YRVk-9XVhVfjtFMBx1G36TQ8QJ-5TSFP8FcM8_9yuwKPOVKOxvPZ2sAJRiDfLan1rya8gmfDZWe9E05ko7YajyeXVNIBgw-S9kZmWlG8diTFOc-QZLVvtP_ejDq5UDlNQ/s1600/100_8793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_cjsVgJ6X2YRVk-9XVhVfjtFMBx1G36TQ8QJ-5TSFP8FcM8_9yuwKPOVKOxvPZ2sAJRiDfLan1rya8gmfDZWe9E05ko7YajyeXVNIBgw-S9kZmWlG8diTFOc-QZLVvtP_ejDq5UDlNQ/s320/100_8793.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mugusu Market - Keeps Goodwill in business</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsDu51iBQcJcEabFCzbRwah-PgddGDO-_whSq1bqLQmCrX3X_Q0sEPkXl6Di5wPGxA2A8k_xrgtgKAtYUA81hKZQJ5HkgEjpp4PI_S_QJXvhQcqz1mDyPXc08NQra0WBdLUsf-wSsWwdo/s1600/100_8794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsDu51iBQcJcEabFCzbRwah-PgddGDO-_whSq1bqLQmCrX3X_Q0sEPkXl6Di5wPGxA2A8k_xrgtgKAtYUA81hKZQJ5HkgEjpp4PI_S_QJXvhQcqz1mDyPXc08NQra0WBdLUsf-wSsWwdo/s320/100_8794.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mugusu Market-more flowing trees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because I have dropped so much weight I needed to buy some
new pants (actually trousers – pants here mean underwear – so you learn quickly
to say trousers). Since I could not try them on, – I bought 3 pairs for $6 total and 2 out of 3 fit me. I gave the extra pair to the lady who drove us to take
to her congregation!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also visited the PCV’s site about 6 kilometers out of Fort
Portal – I rode my bike there and we toured her village with her counterpart
who is doing the most with the least funding of anyone I have met in Uganda. I
have promised to write an article/case study on how to effectively leverage aid
here in Uganda. Nothing is wasted, the community contributes, and his heart is
in the mission of the program…. and not focused on getting money for himself…which
unfortunately has been the norm in my experience. He took us on a hike for a
couple hours and it was beautiful. I did not take my camera into the village to
photograph the orphans, new pit latrines, gravity flow water taps, and the
animal income generating activities though they were very impressive. Some pics
from the hike are below.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;">1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHBHZOX_L0WSSp7IJJMZmQ6kB-L8dQ4qTwIY3GXkLAwvEyU5lQI3hxisTj3jXu2AZbdBagY5KlTJQjHpzXqfQKqukfkJnvlwL7mnZNYiY2w589fFWHHawZJ8LQpfo_TTCdP85kTEBlYs/s1600/IMG_4903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHBHZOX_L0WSSp7IJJMZmQ6kB-L8dQ4qTwIY3GXkLAwvEyU5lQI3hxisTj3jXu2AZbdBagY5KlTJQjHpzXqfQKqukfkJnvlwL7mnZNYiY2w589fFWHHawZJ8LQpfo_TTCdP85kTEBlYs/s320/IMG_4903.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fellow PCV and her counterpart-Rwenzori Mtns in Back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLsE_BDLdCvgQxqu-8NGq6G1FEYuoO7WDzKbpOav5dAgWXYWaKk4ucPQq2lL71wYeo44dkAtTPUPkLBCdsrvq-OQlaR1II8p2idOwqpYU1uIPifP0cOF-gIlNlEVhz-HqOAQAxKjMqs1U/s1600/IMG_4908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLsE_BDLdCvgQxqu-8NGq6G1FEYuoO7WDzKbpOav5dAgWXYWaKk4ucPQq2lL71wYeo44dkAtTPUPkLBCdsrvq-OQlaR1II8p2idOwqpYU1uIPifP0cOF-gIlNlEVhz-HqOAQAxKjMqs1U/s320/IMG_4908.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enthusiastic Karla!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6nir6pb9Q-wLBlFU2mx0fXpB8-MVIZQWyTfm0rqkgTiPdlPaIBsbaXGu7hV0Y36UihG-4Z_ej1_8-RUmI5BSxc3rfHUaAJfgd9zvFBJLv6yj8WRGkorEUCa7oV-SOgpiQfep-CUSadA/s1600/IMG_4909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6nir6pb9Q-wLBlFU2mx0fXpB8-MVIZQWyTfm0rqkgTiPdlPaIBsbaXGu7hV0Y36UihG-4Z_ej1_8-RUmI5BSxc3rfHUaAJfgd9zvFBJLv6yj8WRGkorEUCa7oV-SOgpiQfep-CUSadA/s320/IMG_4909.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Villages below</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0E59DhtPgYk7MiW059T3ECcWw0CZ2QSzmPmYFa4jH-cmgBlNdg8V6qE8_sbW786tOp0Udl_uDATz9af_YwBXx5POHuXriYQAFXN1JXDPfOETJhDWT7YZnqxuU008jHolopjdai61y0o/s1600/IMG_4920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0E59DhtPgYk7MiW059T3ECcWw0CZ2QSzmPmYFa4jH-cmgBlNdg8V6qE8_sbW786tOp0Udl_uDATz9af_YwBXx5POHuXriYQAFXN1JXDPfOETJhDWT7YZnqxuU008jHolopjdai61y0o/s320/IMG_4920.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robert - what are these lovelies?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHmQ6p9S-GaFwQYgN0hRUuxPotw9KT1oQOoCFdGYQ5UTbSLj4mpZMXEkPxJ4DPHtw5P3HEGMnteUpFfFyRMd5fvazR7BxWKdHRVVjtMHsE7MF7ml6DL4gZLwd2SZhYNMxH7TiQEDNbxg/s1600/IMG_4918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHmQ6p9S-GaFwQYgN0hRUuxPotw9KT1oQOoCFdGYQ5UTbSLj4mpZMXEkPxJ4DPHtw5P3HEGMnteUpFfFyRMd5fvazR7BxWKdHRVVjtMHsE7MF7ml6DL4gZLwd2SZhYNMxH7TiQEDNbxg/s320/IMG_4918.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And these are amazing!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6bwqXBaZkV4r62yeFIzZbfkqZNCizc2s8yz4bGlR_Wjatf3oNl7i36DNkCCocAR_koJYNutjyYUfXKsF5C-KpPWZ86dpcCdOnNBz7hmP7WJFOKrH8_4WxCmr5o1fkcf0YrO7OAV_fgBA/s1600/IMG_4915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6bwqXBaZkV4r62yeFIzZbfkqZNCizc2s8yz4bGlR_Wjatf3oNl7i36DNkCCocAR_koJYNutjyYUfXKsF5C-KpPWZ86dpcCdOnNBz7hmP7WJFOKrH8_4WxCmr5o1fkcf0YrO7OAV_fgBA/s320/IMG_4915.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little green froggie friend!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p>My youngest son, who has been in Nairobi Kenya for the
summer, will be here in a week and he is coming to Fort Portal to stay with me
for a few nights before heading
stateside. I cannot describe how excited I am to see him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My work has mostly been getting the place organized and
trying to get them able to generate their own income as well as apply for more
funding. Record keeping has been poor so we have focused on getting all income,
donations and expenses documented from 2011 forward. They had records in 3-4
different places so there was no information to show the big picture, until I
got my hands into it. Those who know me well, know how much I love excel and
organizing information! I have also entered all the applications they have received
from people wanting to receive bikes wheel chairs or tricycles. Also we are
trying to pull together the complete list of all beneficiaries to date. Its
slow work, like hunting for clues, but slowly it is coming together.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My living arrangements are settling in – not hauling my
water and having an indoor bathing room and toilet sure make a difference. My
weight is climbing and I am definitely not working as hard to just exist as I
was at my former site. We have a hot water heater too and though its temperamental,
it is still my best friend. The pipes below it hves sprung a leak twice but
these are minor issues.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The young man that lives in the back and is charged with
ground maintenance, general cleaning and security has become my friend. He is
23 years old and is always smiling and willing to help me. He keeps my bike in
shape and runs errands for me. He gets better pricing at the market since he is
not white, so he is doing a great deal of our shopping and in return he makes
some small cash and I feed him most nights from my cooking. It’s a nice arrangement. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I talk several times a week to my buddies at the school back
in Gulu district. I miss them more than I imagined and appreciate their
enthusiastic calls and texts. I nominated one of my students there to attend
Peace Camp – which is beginning next week. For a description go to my friend
Nancy’s blog (<a href="http://atexangoesquesting.blogspot.com/2012/07/peace-camp.html?spref=fb">http://atexangoesquesting.blogspot.com/2012/07/peace-camp.html?spref=fb</a>)
– my student is the 22 year old – his response on the application to “how the
war affected you?” is below:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Boy, age 22: “The war affected me in the following ways: I
lost my father, who was killed. Secondly, all our properties were
vandalized. All our animals were taken.
I myself was burned in a grass thatch house and set fire, but I survived. I
have only one sister and one brother. The rest of my brothers were killed. I have an injury from bayonet. My mother was
paralyzed. This made me head of household.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha16jysK3S4RqHxSUZDhN-ttOCPX7IB0r44pqx3HTQ5WZFV9wDEeKWeSNwv9srmS9y2iJKkieh5vVgxBf1o3i_QeZdMxWeHGgboZR4M_Ii9Qin9n_TBAsykGtQxtZCWk95_oUiXzBF7sk/s1600/100_8698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha16jysK3S4RqHxSUZDhN-ttOCPX7IB0r44pqx3HTQ5WZFV9wDEeKWeSNwv9srmS9y2iJKkieh5vVgxBf1o3i_QeZdMxWeHGgboZR4M_Ii9Qin9n_TBAsykGtQxtZCWk95_oUiXzBF7sk/s320/100_8698.JPG" width="178" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This young man works so hard to raise his school fees and
support his family – he often worked in my garden and elsewhere on the school
grounds. Here he is in my garden. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
WORLD'S LARGEST EGGPLANT!!!!! That is a full sized dinner plate next to the beast!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYidHXwyJGv0l5ZLpN7xhxRB-V3eO5HDpDp9EFxfXgzMhYvR_iXrgz2K_TZeoTKIdJHe6LrPN8XjcGuhLUrhO_T05yOR_cqY0kGqHA4KPW46W838XS_btC7v3cgxMeefL8NihOPefqgc/s1600/100_8796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYidHXwyJGv0l5ZLpN7xhxRB-V3eO5HDpDp9EFxfXgzMhYvR_iXrgz2K_TZeoTKIdJHe6LrPN8XjcGuhLUrhO_T05yOR_cqY0kGqHA4KPW46W838XS_btC7v3cgxMeefL8NihOPefqgc/s320/100_8796.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peppers+ Eggplant = Payment for a ride from a villager!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
POETRY<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<b><u>Working
August 5<sup>th</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I try
very hard <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
To be
good to myself<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
And my
fellow time travelers<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
More
importantly, I want to be honest<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
First
to myself, then to the collective you<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I have
learned this is not easy<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
To
know what is Reality and Truth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
We
change our stories to fit our definitions, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Our
identities<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
We
choose to see a reality <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
That
enshrines us in candlelight<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Yet to
accomplish the above stated goals<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I need
a powerful spotlight<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
So no
false assumptions can hide in the shadows<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I feel
courageous<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Most
of the time<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
But I still
struggle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Which
I think means <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I am
not facing<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
My
real limitations<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
So I continue
doing the work<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
To
uncover them<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I get
still, listening to my inner poet<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
While
she shows me the ground<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Where
the work must take place<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I am
digging and weeding <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
And sowing
the seeds <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Smiling
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
As the
fruits of this work<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Begin to
sprout<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<b><u>Our Country August 2<sup>nd</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
I love
<i>Our Country<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<i>Ours</i> because <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
America
is its people<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Our
intermixed<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Melting
pot of the shiniest<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Precious
Mettle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
From
all over the world<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
We
have blended <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The
greatest raw materials<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
And
crafted them<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Into
the most inspired art<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The
more I study<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Our
nation’s history<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The
more awestruck I become<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
At the
insightfulness and Resolve<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Of our
leaders<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The
strength and resourcefulness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Of our
citizens<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The
amazing depth of our Compassion<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
For
those less fortunate<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
My
prayer is that <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
We
will not lose sight<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Of
what makes us great<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
We
will remain vigilant<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
To
protect and be grateful for<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The values
and culture<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
That
is America<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Log Jam July 28<sup>th</sup>,
2012</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Pressure
builds<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Increasing
stress<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
As
logs pile up<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Appearing
too heavy <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
With
too much bulk<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
To
ever move<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
But
the undercurrent of life flows on<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Silently
refusing to yield<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
To this
apparent inertia<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Patiently
biding time<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Perpetually
pushing<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
At
every available purchase<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Until
with tremendous <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Groans
and creaks<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The
logs break loose<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
And the
water is no longer<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Trapped,
nor restricted<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Simple
swirls remaining<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
The
evidence of struggle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
Vanishing
quickly downstream<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you all for your love – it is felt, and cherished, and
needed-Love Karla<o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-77143576922789142202012-07-10T12:42:00.000+03:002012-07-20T15:55:38.080+03:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>New site, Going
Away Party, Prefect Handover, 11 Months in Uganda, Whole Lotta Poetry! <o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Grab a coffee or tea, a cookie …and get ready to read a long
blog update!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br />NEW SITE</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCQlhifq6u48dE5cFUWzxX2x8GUluscFDRFY-DnfpBtDL6QTmH4T50CQm4CvZMcP5vm7FewWR1xb33WzFfwZnx9-7N2k5gPDttuFWWKPt9wxHc8D301w6dYt5fknFcuFsLyAHZi8Tb8k/s1600/Map+fort+portal+KND+site.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCQlhifq6u48dE5cFUWzxX2x8GUluscFDRFY-DnfpBtDL6QTmH4T50CQm4CvZMcP5vm7FewWR1xb33WzFfwZnx9-7N2k5gPDttuFWWKPt9wxHc8D301w6dYt5fknFcuFsLyAHZi8Tb8k/s320/Map+fort+portal+KND+site.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Location of my Office and My Apartment</td></tr>
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On Friday July 6<sup>th</sup> I moved from Gulu District in Northern Uganda
to Fort Portal in Southwestern Uganda. In a way I think this enhances my Peace
Corps experience, as I will have 2 very distinct experiences. I will have
worked with war traumatized youth at a school in the North, and then moved southward
to work in the disabled and vulnerable youth transportation fields. On the route south, the
landscape changes dramatically from flat, dry and hot to mountainous, wet and
cool. I moved from a war torn area to an area that has tourism and tea estates!
There is also a small golf course in Fort Portal and a botanical garden. So it is
very different. You can actually feel the change in the people, as they were
not affected by a 20 year war. <b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Even with all these supposed “upgrades”, I will miss the
Gulu area. I have some great PCV and local friends there. I will miss my garden, some of the students,
and most of the staff. Some photos of my old site friends.....</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEUAYQYXmx-LZpCu5XKWzIkDOZ9Yu-yttnKEnOGKY8N0vLELAdoYGXGs-3S213XnOEpxob1x0UTxaJSgtAa9CEl-DxofHLWaf3dynFuIvAC-a-IsmOLbGGWSV2NNtIMHexROUtJFlshQ/s1600/100_8514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEUAYQYXmx-LZpCu5XKWzIkDOZ9Yu-yttnKEnOGKY8N0vLELAdoYGXGs-3S213XnOEpxob1x0UTxaJSgtAa9CEl-DxofHLWaf3dynFuIvAC-a-IsmOLbGGWSV2NNtIMHexROUtJFlshQ/s320/100_8514.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My counterpart and close friend the accountant</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QSa3A8CxUhw94c3jHeI4fsmORNO38YyGv1WnGbQMxADSRbSuv2dv5VA2nNTdydKa_BawLH7M2sA0RiGz_FFu3W-s6G5f8h_h8EZ7EXFf7tk-Wo1mZTn9EOZCjCstMqYZdrWHMzox_EE/s1600/100_8519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QSa3A8CxUhw94c3jHeI4fsmORNO38YyGv1WnGbQMxADSRbSuv2dv5VA2nNTdydKa_BawLH7M2sA0RiGz_FFu3W-s6G5f8h_h8EZ7EXFf7tk-Wo1mZTn9EOZCjCstMqYZdrWHMzox_EE/s320/100_8519.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tailoring Instructor</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72L1VykSZxB6rRV_SHEWsFj7GNM8sjPka5B98RslX01uN3jh72QIYYaT-mPjzW49x14hQPGop_t9b3QgEaijTVPOW3gMW7kIM3ixP5Ch5OnQi2_0dD2wsJDQL1TBbZJFVOGDkTXokBUk/s1600/100_8700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72L1VykSZxB6rRV_SHEWsFj7GNM8sjPka5B98RslX01uN3jh72QIYYaT-mPjzW49x14hQPGop_t9b3QgEaijTVPOW3gMW7kIM3ixP5Ch5OnQi2_0dD2wsJDQL1TBbZJFVOGDkTXokBUk/s320/100_8700.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Supervisor and House mate in my Garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSH23ZRRzS1fvbL_lZAItF20LkXTJ173IHYm_MG0SF-V8i5sPoq4CBq6esGiDwTsNYMRNeBpT2UseZ9SoknWlbBNx17a3vt7IoLVAqHVMb6l3eF9wwrAlUUnLORIScHv8zQzFJ8JabZIE/s1600/100_8708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSH23ZRRzS1fvbL_lZAItF20LkXTJ173IHYm_MG0SF-V8i5sPoq4CBq6esGiDwTsNYMRNeBpT2UseZ9SoknWlbBNx17a3vt7IoLVAqHVMb6l3eF9wwrAlUUnLORIScHv8zQzFJ8JabZIE/s320/100_8708.JPG" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, The Building Instructor and Australian Volunteer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiym9mGLFG17vx_oHJUhMBUi8lfg2A8NxIpR83r_cDvNYq-OUF_67ou5TGlracRW-L_ARBd5CFqs5t6BTtHriJaOPwnUgVuNzK3Slt1PtlG45a84Fy-mWkSkFNziDgH5-CPeP41UdmszPQ/s1600/100_8712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiym9mGLFG17vx_oHJUhMBUi8lfg2A8NxIpR83r_cDvNYq-OUF_67ou5TGlracRW-L_ARBd5CFqs5t6BTtHriJaOPwnUgVuNzK3Slt1PtlG45a84Fy-mWkSkFNziDgH5-CPeP41UdmszPQ/s320/100_8712.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Carpentry Instructor and me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR97IkuuscjBeJleM5Ft1MgWe2f17AzFPV_B-c_4QYZIbBBt5wJDpSEn3hRF0RSiv6GVBIERYo8mpiAD39L4qmiOD3V3MfKlh2RpaFn2JGsgD6GhInHpqx_uj1aKMd6H0mk28qfvz3MAU/s1600/100_8713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR97IkuuscjBeJleM5Ft1MgWe2f17AzFPV_B-c_4QYZIbBBt5wJDpSEn3hRF0RSiv6GVBIERYo8mpiAD39L4qmiOD3V3MfKlh2RpaFn2JGsgD6GhInHpqx_uj1aKMd6H0mk28qfvz3MAU/s320/100_8713.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Secretary and me- her baby girl was born the day I left!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5WG4JzTVM98IqnIRb0kNeGFP_XekCrz0z8DzzCW8jvK4j9ZTDRuJmdPUqFfuPNZHEij7PDhdZABzUAafg8dV6BSR-EsgU0eYlBm-kVDFQxzFD1Rr-ahWX3ZBEwdtN_c1vRlfLM38Yao/s1600/100_8717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5WG4JzTVM98IqnIRb0kNeGFP_XekCrz0z8DzzCW8jvK4j9ZTDRuJmdPUqFfuPNZHEij7PDhdZABzUAafg8dV6BSR-EsgU0eYlBm-kVDFQxzFD1Rr-ahWX3ZBEwdtN_c1vRlfLM38Yao/s320/100_8717.JPG" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Deputy Director and me</td></tr>
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However, due to several factors, a change was required. My new organization will be a nonprofit that manufactures and distributes bikes to orphans and HIV patients to improve the individual’s access and mobility in his/her community. They also provide training and education to these groups to help develop income generating skills. <br />
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Since I am moving to a town, my access to food and restaurants will increase; and this is very good as I try to keep my weight up over here. I will also be around more Americans and Europeans as there is a larger expat community in Fort Portal.<br />
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I expect my community, both Ugandan and Ex-Pat, will be larger, as more people will live and work near me. Presently I am in a compound with a 4 bedroom house and a small apartment block on the back with 3 men. Inside the house live me, an American male volunteer for the next 2 months, and a young Ugandan man. Another young Ugandan man lives in one of the apartment rooms in the back. The organization is going to partition part of the house soon, so I will have my own little apartment with a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. I have an indoor flush toilet and bathroom with a tub – no shower or hot water, but comparatively it’s D-LUX! We all share the common sitting room.<br />
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The compound is also the location of their bike workshop so
frequently there are many young men around fabricating the custom bikes and bike
drawn ambulances/trailers. The compound is a couple miles up a hill out of town…a
nice 30 minute walk down hill in the morning, and uphill on the way home. I
love the walk and the chance to observe all the birds and flowers and trees. This part of Uganda is like a tropical
paradise.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I was moved by Peace Corps in one of their Range Rovers and
the Ugandan driver and I had some nice conversations. He is a devout Muslim and
we stopped for him to pray at a mosque for his evening prayers. About 10% of
the population here is Muslim, and I have enjoyed the opportunity to meet and
interface with more Muslims. The ones I have met are nothing like the “terrorists”
so many Americans like to imagine. The
drive took about 8.5 hours because we traveled on unpaved roads and therefore
did not have to travel through Kampala. I felt like I was on a personal Safari
passing villages and beautiful landscapes. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-s2iwm75dBfehkA94UUvpdqXYedrVujU3X-jfSdDdrVgV_dFWNnbZ9MxXwPVZDNzpeL6UvxT6MwD_IvtlMHWbCvyvlQpJlN6NuNNSusOT0a0lkEbr_wjVePD1-1glW2OQR2SPx8Qr-rc/s1600/100_8725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-s2iwm75dBfehkA94UUvpdqXYedrVujU3X-jfSdDdrVgV_dFWNnbZ9MxXwPVZDNzpeL6UvxT6MwD_IvtlMHWbCvyvlQpJlN6NuNNSusOT0a0lkEbr_wjVePD1-1glW2OQR2SPx8Qr-rc/s320/100_8725.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wrapping my Present!</td></tr>
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<b><br />Going Away Party<br />
</b>The school hosted a going away party for me – I was sad and a little
anxious with the impending departure, but was also excited for the change. The
staff all contributed to pay for the going away lunch and for a departing gift –
I was mortified they had to raise funds, as some staff only make $1-$2 a day…so
I also added some cash to help pay for the meat and rice. The lunch lasted 3
hours and after eating there were speeches by all attendees. My favorite was a
young teacher who said “If I were God, I would make Madam Karla stay here
forever and become a Ugandan Citizen as she is the first white person I have
known.” OK Yeah I admit I cried like a baby a few times. My parting gift was a
business suit made in China that is actually very nice. I found it ironic that
was what they selected. I suppose I was under dressed for some of the Board
Meetings and they wanted to help me out! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnf-fkAXEybirpPRO_hadl4TZ902BUyOjlGsVFtbrFBUaTy_CRaJ_Q4PRfj0pMFfn7tk-xO6TdwApG8PpmNa89eOU611rALxhYPNjMSOeKAnG57iNKxJYivc7Wd1dam7kK8jgNgkFuz2o/s1600/100_8770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnf-fkAXEybirpPRO_hadl4TZ902BUyOjlGsVFtbrFBUaTy_CRaJ_Q4PRfj0pMFfn7tk-xO6TdwApG8PpmNa89eOU611rALxhYPNjMSOeKAnG57iNKxJYivc7Wd1dam7kK8jgNgkFuz2o/s320/100_8770.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Receiving the gift!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGo45B8TsIWauFfSlWiQXOYRlEVQrY8HtJmOi2YuhMzf4b9JHuXOsR2k3pBF0K3DsSnKst2BZC6V8OUSRU0ZI8ai8AEyvRO3ZF1jRcs1d9-4EmExidPdJHGuBvKLs306atj87yf-MvPIk/s1600/100_8730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGo45B8TsIWauFfSlWiQXOYRlEVQrY8HtJmOi2YuhMzf4b9JHuXOsR2k3pBF0K3DsSnKst2BZC6V8OUSRU0ZI8ai8AEyvRO3ZF1jRcs1d9-4EmExidPdJHGuBvKLs306atj87yf-MvPIk/s320/100_8730.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Feast</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mgF2TgHIv8uqy-ST74VaRTPM4FwE-AywFdrPgz4Yz1ML9pff-G1eCkjC50n9NOfVxCjr2xyZ54ztFJWxiOgeHSi8dbYnD3hYPtB3R_UT3689ftZofcAk7gM95h5WnWRSi-EThT-8Qt8/s1600/100_8742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mgF2TgHIv8uqy-ST74VaRTPM4FwE-AywFdrPgz4Yz1ML9pff-G1eCkjC50n9NOfVxCjr2xyZ54ztFJWxiOgeHSi8dbYnD3hYPtB3R_UT3689ftZofcAk7gM95h5WnWRSi-EThT-8Qt8/s320/100_8742.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Co-workers and friends!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgdPubFykPx8m3xSmCuUC6eMwuDHNVKSbbtbs3w8jw7dU1fFD4JiGC4h7zM3wzV21iPZJxA1mxBWIRycyqDU_F-ZZe6r-EAYFySqqss_VuCTwMblroiFHpai-benSzBeQIbXvUoSFqOA/s1600/100_8735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgdPubFykPx8m3xSmCuUC6eMwuDHNVKSbbtbs3w8jw7dU1fFD4JiGC4h7zM3wzV21iPZJxA1mxBWIRycyqDU_F-ZZe6r-EAYFySqqss_VuCTwMblroiFHpai-benSzBeQIbXvUoSFqOA/s320/100_8735.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My flowers as decorations!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaCtzy8gvMwi2dCc_Lc2zlAm9YFnYH6OXBOVpI9i0qPlXfkpctl5WQc6mRhJK7gON-nB7UXxCd-baT-rKXRZj-PqOP2seOUA9zqwLmDX0HYiYs0_F1zqaJeoi48Pwd3N_biLuc9OeipvU/s1600/100_8759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaCtzy8gvMwi2dCc_Lc2zlAm9YFnYH6OXBOVpI9i0qPlXfkpctl5WQc6mRhJK7gON-nB7UXxCd-baT-rKXRZj-PqOP2seOUA9zqwLmDX0HYiYs0_F1zqaJeoi48Pwd3N_biLuc9OeipvU/s320/100_8759.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Listening to Testimony Speeches of my impact!</td></tr>
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I really made some deep connections there and it was hard to leave in many ways. The day the truck arrived all the students gathered around and loaded my things and asked me to come back soon. It is a 10 hour trip, so it will not be easy to return.<br />
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<b>Prefect Handover Day<br />
</b>On June 22<sup>nd</sup> the school celebrated Prefect Handover Day. A
prefect is a British term for something like Student Council. The handover day is when the outgoing
Prefects turn the job over to the incoming Prefects. At 8:30 am that morning I found out I would
be the Chief Guest (AKA Guest of Honor) and would be expected to make a speech
in 1.5 hours. So I changed into my best African outfit and started pulling
together a brief speech. I think it came out well – Because I am in Uganda, I
used culturally appropriate quotes from The Bible and Nelson Mandela, a true
hero to all…however because of my love of American Football I also included a
quote from Vince Lombardi. All in all I think it went over OK.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJidJx88tiEQ3fMcem7Gp4HNOprnMAqDcfO5-yqyYZKHlQbFo2NN-X8hiQRG8qZTnwK85cEnU0hUM0tKQ0F8_NpcKbHK753hjXzJQoXhvgvF-nv_-F5jQPMOTY8YCEXN_T_4B5RG1-pw/s1600/100_8616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJidJx88tiEQ3fMcem7Gp4HNOprnMAqDcfO5-yqyYZKHlQbFo2NN-X8hiQRG8qZTnwK85cEnU0hUM0tKQ0F8_NpcKbHK753hjXzJQoXhvgvF-nv_-F5jQPMOTY8YCEXN_T_4B5RG1-pw/s320/100_8616.JPG" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorations-flowers from my garden in paper vase</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGZWpMBmpO1MGH1IXeOFkEZpPxCaCJCOhIm6mH_IJUdw9gjAlB6cKTatiGzqF98YaVOq8n1nkHpAIg0W_ndOIt-sqtVwFLitoU11gCtJsTPOJ_DHeB25G6EAptcwQ300EMF-wHCyqHC8/s1600/DSC00374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGZWpMBmpO1MGH1IXeOFkEZpPxCaCJCOhIm6mH_IJUdw9gjAlB6cKTatiGzqF98YaVOq8n1nkHpAIg0W_ndOIt-sqtVwFLitoU11gCtJsTPOJ_DHeB25G6EAptcwQ300EMF-wHCyqHC8/s320/DSC00374.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handing over the Prefect Folders</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhnIfS4ffSb035xMZZ6NjqA6j9rAez-DKa60o-dVCWGIWe4_-ALhSAf4KOqHHWEY-2EfJHfhzpon_zqO1EHp0I68w53CCLI35EWn54cU4xsSOOd5q-FZpoTGjPhacKFmbLWJQYnuBl2E/s1600/DSC00381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhnIfS4ffSb035xMZZ6NjqA6j9rAez-DKa60o-dVCWGIWe4_-ALhSAf4KOqHHWEY-2EfJHfhzpon_zqO1EHp0I68w53CCLI35EWn54cU4xsSOOd5q-FZpoTGjPhacKFmbLWJQYnuBl2E/s320/DSC00381.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More - Handing over the Prefect Folders</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10h8xS_zhw1zImVzjB_H_By7c0ADaximEbHP50vr6m3EL8VJayM9Tgqaay6qfE5s3MVduGV7WqN6_PvSmzu2B3IaGCCEkBpoedDGEzZ5t4mYLBlA4kcbethELeyjJZnHvh0iQXBwyLlQ/s1600/DSC00402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10h8xS_zhw1zImVzjB_H_By7c0ADaximEbHP50vr6m3EL8VJayM9Tgqaay6qfE5s3MVduGV7WqN6_PvSmzu2B3IaGCCEkBpoedDGEzZ5t4mYLBlA4kcbethELeyjJZnHvh0iQXBwyLlQ/s320/DSC00402.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Listening to a speaker off to the right</td></tr>
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<b>11 Months in Uganda<br />
</b>Yes, it’s hard to believe, but on July 4<sup>th</sup>, I marked 11 months in
Uganda. …this is surprising to me as I reflect on the things that have taken
place in my absence….several high school graduations of relatives and friends’
children, a few 50<sup>th</sup> Birthday parties, the death of several friends’
dogs, a year’s worth of holidays and celebrations. However – I have grown in ways that are not
possible when you remain inside your safety net. It has not been easy – often
harder than I can express – but it has recalibrated and sharpened my definition
of myself. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br />Poetry</b>-it has been a month
since I posted – so there is a lot of new poetry!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>The
Poet July 9<sup>th</sup>
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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I have fallen in love<o:p></o:p></div>
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With my poet self<o:p></o:p></div>
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She seems to materialize<o:p></o:p></div>
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From somewhere else<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like I am channeling<o:p></o:p></div>
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A beautiful soul<o:p></o:p></div>
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Submerged for too long<o:p></o:p></div>
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Who inspires and delights me<o:p></o:p></div>
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Occasionally fear-provoking<o:p></o:p></div>
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With her clear eyed pronouncements<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yet always joyful and confident<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the knowledge that<o:p></o:p></div>
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Her words ring true<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the weight is lifted<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I listen to her<o:p></o:p></div>
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Speak<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Becoming
a Diamond July 9<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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I like to imagine <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am becoming a diamond<o:p></o:p></div>
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Starting as a dark, buried<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shapeless chunk<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of worthless earth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Suffering from unbearable stresses<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pressure sure to suffocate<o:p></o:p></div>
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A weaker element<o:p></o:p></div>
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But not me<o:p></o:p></div>
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I take it <o:p></o:p></div>
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Bearing through it <o:p></o:p></div>
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Like labor<o:p></o:p></div>
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Awaiting rebirth<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I will emerge<o:p></o:p></div>
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The clearest and shiniest<o:p></o:p></div>
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Most perfectly formed<o:p></o:p></div>
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Brilliant and solid<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gemstone of a Human<o:p></o:p></div>
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Being<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>A
Tragic Figure July 9<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<i>A
tragic figure<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Whispers the stranger<o:p></o:p></div>
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She tries, so brave<o:p></o:p></div>
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Though a bit unhinged<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Obviously<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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To step out of comfort<o:p></o:p></div>
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Apparently on a whim<o:p></o:p></div>
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Abandoning those she loves<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or so it appears <o:p></o:p></div>
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From the outside<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looking in<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>She
is searching for something<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Said the other<o:p></o:p></div>
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But it continues to elude<o:p></o:p></div>
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Always hopeful for the future<o:p></o:p></div>
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Squaring her shoulders<o:p></o:p></div>
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Leaning into another storm<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like some sort of Gladiator<o:p></o:p></div>
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Facing the lions<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hard to believe<o:p></o:p></div>
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Her Luck is that Bad<o:p></o:p></div>
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She must deserve it – somehow<o:p></o:p></div>
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Perhaps she brings it on herself<o:p></o:p></div>
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Refusing to be happy with what she had<o:p></o:p></div>
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Who knows what drives her<o:p></o:p></div>
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Some internal restless demon<o:p></o:p></div>
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Most likely<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Nonetheless….I
can’t help but admire her<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Said the last one with a wistful<o:p></o:p></div>
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Somewhat envious tone<o:p></o:p></div>
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As they continued down the cosmetics
aisle<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Exquisite
Evenings July 7<sup>th</sup> 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Uganda has no winter<o:p></o:p></div>
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Nightfall is either a cool crisp
experience;<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or a gentle, warm embrace<o:p></o:p></div>
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Occasionally punctuated with a
thunderstorm<o:p></o:p></div>
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But in general<o:p></o:p></div>
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A lovely caressing night<o:p></o:p></div>
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With breezes that inspire<o:p></o:p></div>
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And a soft darkness that encircles the
Soul<o:p></o:p></div>
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Makes a person celebrate<o:p></o:p></div>
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The instant of living<o:p></o:p></div>
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Right there and now<o:p></o:p></div>
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With the awe of beauty<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the importance of our life<o:p></o:p></div>
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Reminding us of the mystery<o:p></o:p></div>
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And supremacy <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of the existence we are given<o:p></o:p></div>
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Forcing us to marvel<o:p></o:p></div>
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At the magnitude of the moment<o:p></o:p></div>
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As we are captivated by the moon<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mesmerized by its promise<o:p></o:p></div>
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As it dances with the clouds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Racing out to lead us<o:p></o:p></div>
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Always just ahead;<o:p></o:p></div>
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Taunting us to follow<o:p></o:p></div>
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Its promise of knowledge<o:p></o:p></div>
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Never yielding its secrets<o:p></o:p></div>
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To us mere mortals <o:p></o:p></div>
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Dancing on this earth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amazed at its beauty<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like moths to the flame<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hoping we will make <o:p></o:p></div>
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A grander impact<o:p></o:p></div>
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But never quite sure <o:p></o:p></div>
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If our moon dance<o:p></o:p></div>
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Can exist beyond the moment<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of our heartfelt ballet<o:p></o:p></div>
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With the muse of the night <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u>Manhood
June 17<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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I presume<o:p></o:p></div>
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Being a man is complicated<o:p></o:p></div>
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Often contradictory on the surface<o:p></o:p></div>
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Stoically expected to carry the burden<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Never flinching, <o:p></o:p></div>
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Being smart, monetarily successful<o:p></o:p></div>
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Taking command<o:p></o:p></div>
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Protecting, Providing<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Yet to be fulfilled<o:p></o:p></div>
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To become a complete man<o:p></o:p></div>
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Takes much more<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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To be whole<o:p></o:p></div>
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Requires being vulnerable<o:p></o:p></div>
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Reflective<o:p></o:p></div>
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Open to being wrong<o:p></o:p></div>
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Learning from others<o:p></o:p></div>
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Questioning assumptions<o:p></o:p></div>
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As you and the world around you<o:p></o:p></div>
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Continuously evolves<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Taking greater courage <o:p></o:p></div>
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Than most men can bear <o:p></o:p></div>
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This openness entails<o:p></o:p></div>
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Venturing out alone<o:p></o:p></div>
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In uncharted landscape<o:p></o:p></div>
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With no guide except<o:p></o:p></div>
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The North Star <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of a deep knowledge<o:p></o:p></div>
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Buried in his soul<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ignoring societal feedback<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trusting only <o:p></o:p></div>
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Internal guidance systems<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Most men pretend<o:p></o:p></div>
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This alternate path <o:p></o:p></div>
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Does not exist<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is nonsense<o:p></o:p></div>
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Scoffing at any indication<o:p></o:p></div>
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Their well-built world<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is made of cards<o:p></o:p></div>
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Belittling anyone who challenges<o:p></o:p></div>
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Their version of reality<o:p></o:p></div>
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Their best defense, a derisive offense<o:p></o:p></div>
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Collecting “Yes” people<o:p></o:p></div>
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To reinforce and participate<o:p></o:p></div>
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In their <i>Kingdom of Machismo</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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True greatness as a man<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is revealed with a disciplined love<o:p></o:p></div>
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For self & others<o:p></o:p></div>
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Strength is measured <o:p></o:p></div>
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By Gentleness, diplomacy &
creativity;<o:p></o:p></div>
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With humor<o:p></o:p></div>
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The icing on the cake<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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These men<o:p></o:p></div>
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Are beacons in the darkness<o:p></o:p></div>
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Attracting followers<o:p></o:p></div>
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Who intuitively recognize real authority<o:p></o:p></div>
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Craving to awaken it within themselves<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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True men use their<i> </i>muscle<o:p></o:p></div>
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To build and encourage other men<o:p></o:p></div>
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To join in the journey<o:p></o:p></div>
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Towards a higher calling <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of Manhood<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br />
<u>Restless May 15<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Driven to change<o:p></o:p></div>
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To mix and rearrange<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unable to be content<o:p></o:p></div>
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For too long<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Fighting the familiar<o:p></o:p></div>
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Imagining improvements<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just over the fence<o:p></o:p></div>
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Around the corner<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Determined to find meaning <o:p></o:p></div>
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Some larger purpose<o:p></o:p></div>
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The reason we’re here<o:p></o:p></div>
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The objective of struggle<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Dreaming of contentment<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unsure what it looks like<o:p></o:p></div>
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Recognizing others <o:p></o:p></div>
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Appear to have found it<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Is it in the DNA?<o:p></o:p></div>
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The need for movement<o:p></o:p></div>
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The drive to reshuffle<o:p></o:p></div>
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To relocate<o:p></o:p></div>
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To start anew<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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What drives those of us?<o:p></o:p></div>
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To leave home<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cross the oceans<o:p></o:p></div>
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Climb the mountains<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looking for what?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This force within is powerful<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pushing us<o:p></o:p></div>
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Until the tipping point is reached<o:p></o:p></div>
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And we submit<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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To bravely let go of what is<o:p></o:p></div>
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And move apprehensively towards <o:p></o:p></div>
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What is to be<o:p></o:p></div>
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Never knowing where we will end up<o:p></o:p></div>
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Until we are there<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>In Honor of the Fourth of July <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b><u>American
Heaven June 24<sup>th</sup>
2012</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Peering through the window<o:p></o:p></div>
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At my former life<o:p></o:p></div>
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Where once I glided along <o:p></o:p></div>
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With buffeting winds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like most of us<o:p></o:p></div>
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…Unaware<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of our level of luxury <o:p></o:p></div>
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And privilege<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Now longing for the ease<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of my American life<o:p></o:p></div>
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With Knobs, switches, levers, <o:p></o:p></div>
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Buttons and touchpads<o:p></o:p></div>
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Miraculously delivering<o:p></o:p></div>
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Information, water, light, music<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Clean clothes and dishes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
…Power on so many levels<o:p></o:p></div>
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Not forgetting <o:p></o:p></div>
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The power of also<o:p></o:p></div>
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Miraculously taking away<o:p></o:p></div>
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Waste, dirty water, garbage<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>What
do you miss most?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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People ask<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
FREEDOM<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of movement<o:p></o:p></div>
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The joy of driving<o:p></o:p></div>
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With windows down<o:p></o:p></div>
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Going wherever I want <o:p></o:p></div>
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When I want<o:p></o:p></div>
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Because I can<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
FOOD<o:p></o:p></div>
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In unimaginable variety<o:p></o:p></div>
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Italian, Tai, Mexican, Chinese,<o:p></o:p></div>
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French, Spanish, German, Irish<o:p></o:p></div>
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Eastern European, Asian, Indian<o:p></o:p></div>
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Central & South American<o:p></o:p></div>
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Barbeque & soul <o:p></o:p></div>
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Every ingredient accessible<o:p></o:p></div>
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At your fingertips<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
The fabric of what it means to be
American<o:p></o:p></div>
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Translated into the culinary palette<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
ENTERTAINMENT<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Expected, considered a birthright<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sports, live performances, TV, travel<o:p></o:p></div>
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Internet, movies, exercise, hiking <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here <o:p></o:p></div>
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Entertainment is <o:p></o:p></div>
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A gathering under a tree<o:p></o:p></div>
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Singing and dancing<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the dirt<o:p></o:p></div>
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If there is a battery <o:p></o:p></div>
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For the radio<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or a single photograph<o:p></o:p></div>
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A family’s prized possession<o:p></o:p></div>
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Proof of the effort of their lives<o:p></o:p></div>
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AMERICAN CULTURE<o:p></o:p></div>
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Distinct and so comforting<o:p></o:p></div>
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To those of us privileged<o:p></o:p></div>
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To be raised in our borders<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unless you have been here<o:p></o:p></div>
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You cannot fathom the impact<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of good governance<o:p></o:p></div>
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Strong Judicial systems <o:p></o:p></div>
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Societal Support<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of the importance<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of not tolerating<o:p></o:p></div>
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Corruption<o:p></o:p></div>
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Eyes tearing up suddenly<o:p></o:p></div>
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With appreciation<o:p></o:p></div>
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For our founding citizens<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knowing part of my purpose<o:p></o:p></div>
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On this journey<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is to remind myself <o:p></o:p></div>
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And others<o:p></o:p></div>
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To be grateful<o:p></o:p></div>
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Every day, every moment<o:p></o:p></div>
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For our American Heaven<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-85699355759069451252012-06-19T22:42:00.001+03:002012-06-19T22:42:38.136+03:00I get Around...I get Around!, ...and Poetry<br />
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<b><u>On the Road in Uganda</u></b></div>
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I have been busy lately, going to many interesting sites
across Uganda. I visited an <b>Orphanage </b>in
Gulu Town and was given Acholi lessons by the orphans with disabilities. They
were in wheel chairs and lying on rolling tables that allowed them to avoid bed
sores from sitting in the same position.
I find that the best language teachers are the kids. They think it is
fun to teach and no one feels embarrassed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I also went with a group of <b>Aid Africa</b> workers to a tree farm and collected citrus and jack
fruit trees to distribute out in the village. This was a fun event but more
villagers came looking for the free trees than we had to distribute. I enjoyed watching the demonstration on how to
prepare your tree for planting and watching the village kids hang out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF8Y5TuoUZ0dq9ZE8SyBTppXbOXb8wr8vDGXLjsLfRZuQZZj9FWJYuoAcL4yG1V-SE1dlrCu9vvVQNSWULDtrQ_8-BL-6uyzq-IdUao8fPfqIbpTM1Qz6w40gonBHLYZOuT2udpDfDi0k/s1600/100_8225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF8Y5TuoUZ0dq9ZE8SyBTppXbOXb8wr8vDGXLjsLfRZuQZZj9FWJYuoAcL4yG1V-SE1dlrCu9vvVQNSWULDtrQ_8-BL-6uyzq-IdUao8fPfqIbpTM1Qz6w40gonBHLYZOuT2udpDfDi0k/s320/100_8225.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kids at the tree farm with oranges</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Y9i7PEDW7UJ7Rw3w4aVkuqea5IMUPHPmRi3aHzY9SgnDqCF5ylziI-V67CmzmrFi8NrapHkzp34HTGuELhx-wkb4mzdYrS0vGoHLWNkwNxVjCfj8X6IBuyqv7Yk_Pplc4wq7xQtpWmA/s1600/100_8231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Y9i7PEDW7UJ7Rw3w4aVkuqea5IMUPHPmRi3aHzY9SgnDqCF5ylziI-V67CmzmrFi8NrapHkzp34HTGuELhx-wkb4mzdYrS0vGoHLWNkwNxVjCfj8X6IBuyqv7Yk_Pplc4wq7xQtpWmA/s320/100_8231.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Listening to planting instructions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMel85FNqR9NZyzLSjWaJQx1zDfljl3XS6NghqkPP3rdoZl_bXkn8Q_mDD8CygjrErOEUwpWxOy5LibIoQR7-ljL9YBNn7VL9oF0m19AZgT0rSpkGphUOlD-aRNP5Q-ur5vwyp1go7zs/s1600/100_8241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMel85FNqR9NZyzLSjWaJQx1zDfljl3XS6NghqkPP3rdoZl_bXkn8Q_mDD8CygjrErOEUwpWxOy5LibIoQR7-ljL9YBNn7VL9oF0m19AZgT0rSpkGphUOlD-aRNP5Q-ur5vwyp1go7zs/s320/100_8241.JPG" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">village kids </td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArG_DqF2HyxL_vlBGeqw0xmlk2sHtfM-sPyDXyqa5BqGIcbDbcf6yzvxCBVtzt7vkwaEJ7iTNYxa5c7-AkUZYCQaLDQ3EMhdKGU3myojt8LQZjCDx288hHMmFuaqD6a6gPSCOz8v4Fyc/s1600/100_8229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArG_DqF2HyxL_vlBGeqw0xmlk2sHtfM-sPyDXyqa5BqGIcbDbcf6yzvxCBVtzt7vkwaEJ7iTNYxa5c7-AkUZYCQaLDQ3EMhdKGU3myojt8LQZjCDx288hHMmFuaqD6a6gPSCOz8v4Fyc/s320/100_8229.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">trees for distribution</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Sadly I attended a <b>funeral
</b>for one of our school staff members. You may remember I posted a blog about
a woman who told me she was dying. We thought she was improving, but she ended
up with Cancer and HIV. In the end it was a hard road for her and she finally
let go. The burial was deep in the village and was a lovely affair with
testimonials. She was in a coffin in a grass thatched hut and the women went in
to pray over her. I spend about 20 minutes in there and then went out to my
seat. There were several hundred people there and our entire school closed down
so the staff and students could all attend.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Recently, at my <b>local
restaurant</b>, I found myself sitting next to a 6-7 year old kid who had been
on his way to Kampala – A 5-6 hour bus ride – all by himself to escape abusive
relatives – when a local reverend found him and convinced him to come to get
some food. He had not eaten in a longtime he said. I believe him, as he got
stomach cramps after finishing his plate. A sign his stomach was not used to a
meal. The Reverend was going to take him to the police to try to locate either
some more responsible family members or some support organization for abandoned
children. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This past week I <b>traveled
to Kampala</b> to meet with some organizations including <b>Enterprise Uganda</b>, focused on helping Ugandans become successful
entrepreneurs and save for their futures. I also visited <b>Junior Achievement Uganda</b> offices. There is a great deal of
attention being focused on teaching business and entrepreneur skills. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Vegetables</b> - Our
school gardens are in full swing. I harvested my first batch of Okra (called <b><i>Oteego</i></b>
in Acholi) SO far I have just tomatoes, radishes and okra. The Sunflowers are
just starting! I have small green (bell) peppers but they are a long way off. However,
fresh <b>mangos</b> have been in season for
a couple of months and I have been really enjoying them!<o:p></o:p></div>
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I continue with my project of <b>photographing our students</b>. I take their pictures around the school
and let them pose themselves. They love it. I only charge them the cost to get
the photos printed. For many this is a great treat… To have a photo of
themselves. I have enjoyed doing it but
they are getting so demanding that I may have to stop this project. However I
think it might be a good small business idea for some enterprising Ugandan.
School Photos! Who Knew!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRB1dPG8_TzYpVnsMiIPzcnEjGFMpT1mTYV3puG7grp2V0Gm9SJzAdgP-o5U5gyqjOczFmt2C-03wDgXet_gzXJ5PU4uuGyeDZNaKZpSe7uUVVByXP-OH7YVr43SvRl-7seY5dawfRgk/s1600/101_7918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRB1dPG8_TzYpVnsMiIPzcnEjGFMpT1mTYV3puG7grp2V0Gm9SJzAdgP-o5U5gyqjOczFmt2C-03wDgXet_gzXJ5PU4uuGyeDZNaKZpSe7uUVVByXP-OH7YVr43SvRl-7seY5dawfRgk/s320/101_7918.JPG" width="178" /></a></div>
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Tomorrow I will travel with <b>Invisible Children</b> to tour their offices in Gulu for a second time.
We are discussing their help with more of our students at the school. Afterward
I am visiting a new <b>entrepreneurship
education building</b> at a local secondary school. It should be a good and
informative day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Last Thursday I wrote a 24 page <b>proposal to the Ministry of Education and Sports</b> to try to receive
funding for more students. So far I have assisted in getting 101 students in
our school for short term vocational training. This translates into
approximately US $21,500 …Which is a lot of money here. If this next proposal goes through it could
easily raise that amount or more.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>Poetry</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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I only have a few poems to share – one is for my 24<sup>th</sup>
wedding year anniversary.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Anniversary
Poem June 4<sup>th</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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The richness of marriage<o:p></o:p></div>
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Comes mostly with the passing of time<o:p></o:p></div>
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Stunning to realize<o:p></o:p></div>
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Its depth & breadth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of experiences and emotions<o:p></o:p></div>
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When reflecting backwards<o:p></o:p></div>
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The passionate beginning<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hurls us into subsequent chapters<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fearless and joyful<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sure footed and agile<o:p></o:p></div>
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Through the early years<o:p></o:p></div>
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Euphoric when gazing <o:p></o:p></div>
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On the result of love<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our children<o:p></o:p></div>
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The light of our eyes<o:p></o:p></div>
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The culmination of<o:p></o:p></div>
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Everything hopeful & beautiful<o:p></o:p></div>
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Personified <o:p></o:p></div>
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Nothing before or since<o:p></o:p></div>
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Manifests significance<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like these miraculous gifts<o:p></o:p></div>
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Marching bravely into new territory<o:p></o:p></div>
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We realize the magnitude<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of parenting<o:p></o:p></div>
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Slipping now & then<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unsure on rocky terrain of indecision<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looking to each other for guidance &
approval<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Making decisions for our miracles<o:p></o:p></div>
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Praying we are worthy trustees<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the struggle to provide<o:p></o:p></div>
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Together<o:p></o:p></div>
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Love Food Security Shelter <o:p></o:p></div>
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Education stability challenges safe-haven<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Eventually accepting<o:p></o:p></div>
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We must let out the tethers<o:p></o:p></div>
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That hold our offspring back<o:p></o:p></div>
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Giving more freedom<o:p></o:p></div>
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For growth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Relinquishing all control<o:p></o:p></div>
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To them <o:p></o:p></div>
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And the goodness of this universe<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Surprised to find ourselves<o:p></o:p></div>
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Alone again, with each other<o:p></o:p></div>
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Curious and a bit nervous<o:p></o:p></div>
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To be just 2<o:p></o:p></div>
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Realizing we have traversed<o:p></o:p></div>
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One of life’s biggest mountains <o:p></o:p></div>
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Arriving safely and a bit worn out <o:p></o:p></div>
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From the effort<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Looking at each other <o:p></o:p></div>
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With appreciation, love & compassion<o:p></o:p></div>
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And with wonder & curiosity<o:p></o:p></div>
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For we have made the journey this far<o:p></o:p></div>
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Together<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Having arrived here still friends<o:p></o:p></div>
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With scars and damage<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s exciting and somewhat scary<o:p></o:p></div>
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To imagine what comes next<o:p></o:p></div>
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What new mountains & valleys<o:p></o:p></div>
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Are waiting to receive us<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<u>Woven Threads June 4<sup>th</sup> 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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<br /></div>
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Sipping coffee while watching<o:p></o:p></div>
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A slowly rising sun<o:p></o:p></div>
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Stream its rays of light<o:p></o:p></div>
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Through the cool dust <o:p></o:p></div>
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Floating from the industrious<o:p></o:p></div>
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Actions in the Gulu bus park<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Africa never really sleeps<o:p></o:p></div>
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The daily intensity of petty commerce<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shifts to pulsating night life<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then morphs back to business<o:p></o:p></div>
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Between 7 & 8 am<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When do these people rest?<o:p></o:p></div>
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How do families exist?<o:p></o:p></div>
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In this hive of constant<o:p></o:p></div>
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Noise, dirt & motion?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Memories of my family
rituals<o:p></o:p></div>
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Look nothing like this<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Observing each other<o:p></o:p></div>
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With the same wonder
& curiosity <o:p></o:p></div>
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And slight fear<o:p></o:p></div>
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So different in
obvious ways<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trying to decode<o:p></o:p></div>
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The alien customs<o:p></o:p></div>
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We study each other
intently<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fascinated with the
riddle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Similar and at the
same time<o:p></o:p></div>
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So foreign <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Though at the basic
primal level<o:p></o:p></div>
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I see and feel the
parallels<o:p></o:p></div>
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The woven threads <o:p></o:p></div>
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Binding us in common
humanity<o:p></o:p></div>
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The laughs, dances
& smiles<o:p></o:p></div>
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The heartfelt way <o:p></o:p></div>
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My hand is held
tightly <o:p></o:p></div>
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When greeted in the
street<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Dichotomy May 15<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Yin | Yang<o:p></o:p></div>
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Black | White<o:p></o:p></div>
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Peace | War<o:p></o:p></div>
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Day | Night<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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One does not exist<o:p></o:p></div>
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Without the other<o:p></o:p></div>
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Requiring the antonym <o:p></o:p></div>
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To define itself<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Sandwiched between <o:p></o:p></div>
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Life | Death<o:p></o:p></div>
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Living is spent <o:p></o:p></div>
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Mostly towards the middle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vacillating amongst<o:p></o:p></div>
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The extremes<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Occasionally<o:p></o:p></div>
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Venturing too close<o:p></o:p></div>
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To one side<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or the other<o:p></o:p></div>
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Helping to demonstrate <o:p></o:p></div>
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The value<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of the opposite thought<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or action<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Living is in the choices<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rarely obvious<o:p></o:p></div>
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Which path is correct?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Learning over time<o:p></o:p></div>
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That moderation is benign<o:p></o:p></div>
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But tedious<o:p></o:p></div>
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The extremes are dangerous<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yet thrilling<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Navigating as far<o:p></o:p></div>
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As you dare<o:p></o:p></div>
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Modifying the route<o:p></o:p></div>
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With the wisdom of experience<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Smiling to yourself when you err<o:p></o:p></div>
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Realizing the living is in the journey<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the divine is with you<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="background-color: white;">From beginning to end</span> </o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-19993015196012857782012-05-22T20:53:00.000+03:002012-05-22T20:53:07.753+03:00Food Snob, Wonderful Weather, Work, Poetry<br />
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<b><u>FOOD SNOB<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am learning that Peace Corps is not for the faint of heart,
nor for the food snob. I am doing OK on the first test, but failing miserably
on the second one. Seems my New Orleans upbringing makes me love food more than
the average PCV. Not just food, but good, well-seasoned, food – and, it seems,
I require variety….silly me! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I say this because I have lost a lot of weight over here –
so much so that I went to Peace Corps medical in Kampala for a slew of tests to
see what was up. Good news is that I have no worms or parasites or water borne
illnesses – I just seem to not like the food enough to eat a lot of it. I
definitely try – but almost all my meals necessitate me forcing myself to eat
and swallow as nothing taste good to me over hear. I also saw a therapist in Kampala because the
medical team wanted to see if I was depressed….which both the therapist and I
believe, I am not. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am however very isolated and too removed from enough food
sources to meet my food snob needs. I have been lucky to have a restaurant
(called a Hotel over here) open up across from my school in the trading
center. They have boiled goat, stewed chicken,
rice, Do-Do (greens), cabbage and fried eggs. Yesterday when I crossed kampala road I was greeted by a baby monkey tied to the rail of the restaurant. It was just a few weeks old and was kind of cute and kind of scary. They caught it in their garden and decided to keep it as a pet - and most likely marketing gimmick. But I kept imagining it carries rabies so i stayed far away. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I am now trying to eat one
meal a day at this restaurant at least 5 days a week. So far I have made it 1 week….but the
lack of variety is beginning to make me less excited with each passing day.
This is big news as there was no place to buy cooked meals in the trading
center until they opened. So now I am
getting meat a little more frequently – I am also trying to take it home and
doctor it up a little. So far so good – though I can’t say I enjoy the food
much. SO THAT’S MY BIGGEST HURDLE in Peace Corps. The minor task of eating is a
major effort for me. Who knew? I thought I was pretty low maintenance, but here,
I am considered a very picky eater.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also suffered a big cold after returning from Camp Glow
and that inspired my Poem below – it was just a common cold but it still
knocked me out. I am now fully recovered so don’t worry. I am out of danger!</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>The Best Thing About Uganda</u></b></div>
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A friend asked me the best thing about Uganda and after thinking about it I said - well its not the food....its the weather! Sunny and beautiful everyday. I am getting spoiled with all the sunshine and warmth. Rarely too hot anymore and almost always short sleeve weather - occasionally requiring a long sleeve sweater in the evenings. I have not had a winter since Jan-Feb 2011 - its like endless summer here. Of course the dry season was the worst this year in memory, so I have suffered. But really, it was not that bad. Tennessee summers are more oppressive, as the humidity is tougher to manage. Here its a dry hotness. Which is tolerable. Anyway just want you to know I am not suffering in the weather dept at all! We have rain at least every other day for a couple hours and then it moves on. The storms are fantastically strong and powerful .....and then back to the lovely weather. </div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>Work</u></b></div>
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Lately my work has been less than challenging and mostly boring and frustrating. All my ideas are waiting approval from various powers and so I spend much of my time trying to surf the internet - when there is power (see poem below); and thinking of work to do. I redo forms and type up lists of action items. So I presently don't have much to do but write poetry - so today you are inundated with new material. Some is pretty good. Some is probably not. But its here for your enjoyment....and mine. </div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><u>Poetry <o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<b><u>The
Common Cold May 4<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
A dry pinched catch in the upper throat<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Still hoping to escape the arrival<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of a full blown cold<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knowing it is rare to fend it off<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once you reach this stage<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Spreading soreness<o:p></o:p></div>
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Heralds the coming foe<o:p></o:p></div>
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Stock up on the meds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Emer-gen-C, Sudafed, Benadryl, Ibuprophen<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the mirror your head looks the same<o:p></o:p></div>
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Inside it feels a mile-wide and filled
with rocks<o:p></o:p></div>
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Too heavy to hold up<o:p></o:p></div>
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For the entire day<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Married to the tissue box<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unable to separate for more than a few
seconds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Itchy eyes, scratchy throat, burning
nostrils<o:p></o:p></div>
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Every second a momentous effort to
breathe<o:p></o:p></div>
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Weak and dizzy with weepy eyes<o:p></o:p></div>
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Leaning against the wall for support<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amazed this is a minor illness<o:p></o:p></div>
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And not a major disease<o:p></o:p></div>
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Retiring to bed to wait it out<o:p></o:p></div>
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Feeling ridiculous for being such a baby<o:p></o:p></div>
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When it is just a common cold<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Butterflies May 15, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Being struck<o:p></o:p></div>
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By the conflicting impression<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of the magnitude of my life<o:p></o:p></div>
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And, at the same time, its inconsequence<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Like a butterfly<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trivial in its impact on the world<o:p></o:p></div>
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But still able to captivate<o:p></o:p></div>
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Catch the eye<o:p></o:p></div>
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In her instant of living<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bringing joy to those who take time to
watch<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then passing beyond their reach<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the fields just over the fence<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Dilemma May 15<sup>th</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Caught in the paralyzing moment<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of holding on ….or letting go<o:p></o:p></div>
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Something enticing<o:p></o:p></div>
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About both<o:p></o:p></div>
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Holding on<o:p></o:p></div>
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Not releasing<o:p></o:p></div>
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Not giving up<o:p></o:p></div>
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Believing <o:p></o:p></div>
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The effort will save<o:p></o:p></div>
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The rewards will com<o:p></o:p></div>
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If our grip remains tight<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Alternatively<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Letting go<o:p></o:p></div>
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Surrendering <o:p></o:p></div>
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Trusting the light<o:p></o:p></div>
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Believing<o:p></o:p></div>
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Goodness will protect<o:p></o:p></div>
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Clarity will follow<o:p></o:p></div>
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If we loosen our grip<o:p></o:p></div>
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The hard part is knowing<o:p></o:p></div>
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When to do which?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Growth
Measurements May
17, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Impossible to quantify growth<o:p></o:p></div>
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With so many dimensions<o:p></o:p></div>
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Never linear<o:p></o:p></div>
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Not just a timeline,<o:p></o:p></div>
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When you must consider <o:p></o:p></div>
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Personal-Spiritual-Emotional-Physical-Intellectual-Interpersonal<o:p></o:p></div>
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The concepts of Maturity, Development <o:p></o:p></div>
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With countless variations<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trying to review and analyze a life-line<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gets overly complicated<o:p></o:p></div>
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If dissected<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tough to ascertain improvement<o:p></o:p></div>
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An assessment seems warranted<o:p></o:p></div>
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What is the process?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Surely the Divine knows<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Peering down innumerable paths<o:p></o:p></div>
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Confusing myself when taking measurements<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gathering data, unsure of the figures<o:p></o:p></div>
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Preferring to believe <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am progressing forward<o:p></o:p></div>
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But inwardly doubting <o:p></o:p></div>
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Am I focused on the right information?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Wishing to be like Siddhartha and other
enlightened souls<o:p></o:p></div>
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Will my evolving qualities <o:p></o:p></div>
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Finally converge <o:p></o:p></div>
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In a land of understanding?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Still stranded<o:p></o:p></div>
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With all my queries and quantifications<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hoping that asking the questions, <o:p></o:p></div>
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At least <o:p></o:p></div>
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Brings me closer<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u>Fickle
Gods May 13<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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In the African bush<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have a tenuous link<o:p></o:p></div>
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To my former life<o:p></o:p></div>
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My real life<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The majority of these days<o:p></o:p></div>
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I exist in a surreal state<o:p></o:p></div>
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Where poverty is palpable<o:p></o:p></div>
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Clean running water is not<o:p></o:p></div>
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Electricity erratic<o:p></o:p></div>
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My bathing room a concrete block<o:p></o:p></div>
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My toilet a latrine<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This state is acceptable<o:p></o:p></div>
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As long as I can reach<o:p></o:p></div>
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Across the atmosphere<o:p></o:p></div>
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To my life support system<o:p></o:p></div>
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Attainable through fiber optic threads<o:p></o:p></div>
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When the bandwidth is enough<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the network is up<o:p></o:p></div>
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And my battery is not dead<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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To connect, I travel to the road<o:p></o:p></div>
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Holding my PC up like an offering<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the Gods of the internet<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hoping they will smile<o:p></o:p></div>
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At my sacrifice<o:p></o:p></div>
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And allow the transmission<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Raising my arms above my head<o:p></o:p></div>
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With a prayer<o:p></o:p></div>
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After every click or press of the enter
key<o:p></o:p></div>
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That I am worthy <o:p></o:p></div>
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That the data transfer is approved<o:p></o:p></div>
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The request to send and receive is
blessed<o:p></o:p></div>
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And communication occurs<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Apprehensively<o:p></o:p></div>
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While lowering my arms<o:p></o:p></div>
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I hurriedly check for signs of success<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sending out gratitude<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or a curse<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the fickle gods<o:p></o:p></div>
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That hold my sanity <o:p></o:p></div>
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So precariously<o:p></o:p></div>
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Answering my prayer for electronic tonic <o:p></o:p></div>
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As if by whim <o:p></o:p></div>
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Teasing and taunting<o:p></o:p></div>
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With intermittent access<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the far away Heaven of Home<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u>Mothers
Day May 13<sup>th</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
It astounds me <o:p></o:p></div>
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That a child, a teen <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
A grown man<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Can influence my state of being<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
With a comment, a note, call or email<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Not just any child-teen-man<o:p></o:p></div>
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But my child-teen-man<o:p></o:p></div>
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Why am I under this spell?<o:p></o:p></div>
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How can they so easily control?<o:p></o:p></div>
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This strong intelligent tiger of a woman<o:p></o:p></div>
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That is a kitten in their hands<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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How grateful to find<o:p></o:p></div>
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They wield this power<o:p></o:p></div>
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With affection and prudence<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knowing my each breath<o:p></o:p></div>
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Depends on their gentleness<o:p></o:p></div>
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Understanding our happiness<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is tightly interwoven<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u>Bus
Ride May 18<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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A crowd of human cattle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pressed against each other <o:p></o:p></div>
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For 6 hours<o:p></o:p></div>
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AKA<o:p></o:p></div>
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A Ugandan bus ride to Kampala<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Squeezed into my seat<o:p></o:p></div>
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Between the large African man<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the mother and baby at the window<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sweating thigh to thigh<o:p></o:p></div>
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Calf to calf<o:p></o:p></div>
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Silently waging <o:p></o:p></div>
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A territorial war of elbows and hips <o:p></o:p></div>
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To maintain space <o:p></o:p></div>
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Enough<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Stopping intermittently <o:p></o:p></div>
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To receive offerings of African fast food<o:p></o:p></div>
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Raised up to the open windows<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fried pork and goat meat on sticks<o:p></o:p></div>
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Chapatti, green oranges, mangos,
pineapples,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Roasted banana, milk, water, Cokes<o:p></o:p></div>
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Commerce at the basic level <o:p></o:p></div>
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Live chickens and plastic milk containers<o:p></o:p></div>
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Stored under the seat<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“Short call / long call”<o:p></o:p></div>
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A euphemism for necessary bodily
functions<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just 200 shillings<o:p></o:p></div>
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To
access 3 filthy stalls <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of human waste<o:p></o:p></div>
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Holding all your belongings ….and your
breath <o:p></o:p></div>
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As you squat <o:p></o:p></div>
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Humiliated<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The mood however is unperturbed and
resigned<o:p></o:p></div>
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Music videos blare at punishing decibels<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lovely African melodies <o:p></o:p></div>
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Insufferable 1980’s Christian hymns<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vying for attention, <o:p></o:p></div>
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While kids play on the floor <o:p></o:p></div>
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Under the dirty feet<o:p></o:p></div>
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Life is what it is<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Each traveler moving <o:p></o:p></div>
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Towards some pressing destination<o:p></o:p></div>
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Job, marriage, funeral, school, lover,
hospital<o:p></o:p></div>
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Praying for safe travels<o:p></o:p></div>
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To pass un-hassled by the police check
points<o:p></o:p></div>
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And loaded tankers headed for Sudan<o:p></o:p></div>
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Along the narrow ruined road<o:p></o:p></div>
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To the bustling city <o:p></o:p></div>
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Kampala<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u>Reptilian
Emotions May 18<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Anger<o:p></o:p></div>
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Part of the anthology<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of our reptilian emotions <o:p></o:p></div>
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The baser side of mankind<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anger-Hatred-Jealousy-Envy-Pride-Sloth<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Humans slide effortlessly into these<o:p></o:p></div>
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Destructive reactions<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is easier – by some twist of creation<o:p></o:p></div>
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To
embrace the evil<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ignoring the divine<o:p></o:p></div>
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Composure-Love-Faith-Goodwill-Modesty-Effort<o:p></o:p></div>
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Overlooking the rich rewards<o:p></o:p></div>
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That come when electing <o:p></o:p></div>
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The more difficult route<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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A challenge to convince ourselves<o:p></o:p></div>
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To persevere<o:p></o:p></div>
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To follow the journey of the hero<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Deciding to choose<o:p></o:p></div>
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Kindness and compassion<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
As trusted guides <o:p></o:p></div>
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On the voyage<o:p></o:p></div>
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To a settled soul<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Hugs to everyone! Karla<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PS I did not get trained as a “victims advocate” last week
because the training has been postponed until a final curriculum comes out of
Washington DC. So stay tuned on that issue.<o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-56217203409641756752012-05-03T19:48:00.001+03:002012-05-04T07:44:36.374+03:00Soap, Newsletter, Happy Memory, Camp GLOW, Poetry<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Liquid SOAP</u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS22sDKrd2-OqOYjqVBQoWpoSg-O9IRbF1F54LeHc9mG7hkX1bopjMNsEjmOrQibDI7aoxjVcGgk7UR8jlld6F8WzJl83ecO8VOFzT2-VZGFY5_uHW3v9RFOnF8wvxM7QbSOIbpe0HjVE/s1600/Soapmaking+(22).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS22sDKrd2-OqOYjqVBQoWpoSg-O9IRbF1F54LeHc9mG7hkX1bopjMNsEjmOrQibDI7aoxjVcGgk7UR8jlld6F8WzJl83ecO8VOFzT2-VZGFY5_uHW3v9RFOnF8wvxM7QbSOIbpe0HjVE/s320/Soapmaking+(22).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PCV Heather teaching us Soap Making</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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On April 14<sup>th</sup> I hosted another PCV to come and
teach the village savings group at our school how to make Liquid Soap as an
income Generating Activity (IGA). This is a fairly widely needed product and
can be made at a cheaper price than found in the stores and results in a decent
profit to the group. We made a demonstration batch of 50 liters. We sold out 50
liters in one day! We are hoping to
make an ingredient order from Kampala soon to get the supplies needed to start
making it in even larger quantities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Youth Newsletter<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A couple Peace Corps volunteers recently started a
Uganda-wide Youth newsletter – in Uganda Youth is defined as 14-30 year olds –
so my students here can participate. I encouraged one of our students to submit
his poem about agriculture and it was selected for the last issue. A copy is
below. Just encouraging young people to take risks and be different can make a
long lasting impact here. Most education is rote memory and creativity is not
considered a good trait by most teachers. So this was a major win for this
young man.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Beauty, Natural Beauty<o:p></o:p></div>
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That is true and real<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ugandans have you seen such beauty?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Have the people of Africa seen true beauty?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Beauty that stands the test of time?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Look at the sky<o:p></o:p></div>
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Birds, yes birds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Nature gives us beautiful birds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Chicken, pigeon, dove, guinea fowl, turkeys<o:p></o:p></div>
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All are raised at home<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here on the ground behold the beautiful greens around us<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cabbages, onion, tomatoes, maize, beans,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Name them - All are good for life!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Up on the trees are juicy mangoes, jack fruits, passion fruits,
lemons<o:p></o:p></div>
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That are not equaled by artificial beverages<o:p></o:p></div>
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No chemical after effects!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dear friends, this is all due to agriculture.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The ideal mother who feeds us all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And she is very committed in helping Mother Nature.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s then be the royal children of Mother Nature<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
And participate actively in
Agriculture!<o:p></o:p></div>
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-----------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
Oryem Simon Peter :: Age 22<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Happy Memory<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of my most favorite moments in Uganda occurred a few
weeks back at my local trading center market. This “market” is very small and
consists of 10-20 women from the nearby villages coming to sell their small
items. Usually they have onions, tomatoes, some local greens, charcoal and
occasionally dried fish. (To date I have not bought the fish, but tried it at
my supervisor’s home.) I also buy my chapatti from Madam Evelyn there – chapatti is a local circular flat bread
somewhat like a tortilla. It is fried in oil, and when I add cinnamon and sugar
it tastes a little like a donut. I also eat one with salt with most meals for
calories and carbs, as I am not exactly getting fat over here. Anyway this one
afternoon I purchased some chapatti and an old village woman seated on the
ground selling greens motioned she would like a chapatti. So I bent down and
let her pick one from my bag. She smiled brightly with a toothless grin and
began singing to me in Acholi. I had no idea what she was singing, but all the other
ladies began clapping, and I began dancing to their song. Afterwards I was told
she was singing that more blessings will return to me, the giver, and that I
will receive abundantly from God. It was a spontaneous beautiful joyous moment
that is forever burned into my memory! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>CAMPS<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicjUilxjmPNpPgYdrfrG-1m_khl5qGLAfLp21r3M-Msg_ilmMRxqKxP9B8i4KOQM5Ek0q1q5xm7U5vI7jYjyZY0-q_KgwSv0BCK0RpYCjudERgbI-yRZ0QVAgX9xPJaRYwS8Tr7KPXMlA/s1600/Camp+GLOW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicjUilxjmPNpPgYdrfrG-1m_khl5qGLAfLp21r3M-Msg_ilmMRxqKxP9B8i4KOQM5Ek0q1q5xm7U5vI7jYjyZY0-q_KgwSv0BCK0RpYCjudERgbI-yRZ0QVAgX9xPJaRYwS8Tr7KPXMlA/s320/Camp+GLOW.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entire GLOW CAMP - I'm front far right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CAMP GLOW (Girls
Leading Our World) took place last week simultaneously with CAMP BUILD (Boys of
Uganda in Leadership Development). The camps are to educate and encourage young
people to become leaders in Uganda. The
girls were divided into 10 groups. Each group named after an African
Animal….Lions, Zebras, Rhinos, etc. Each group created their own songs and
cheers and they were taught songs about ending malaria and becoming
leaders. They learned about Reproductive
Health, (including being tested for HIV), Self Esteem, Life Skills, Business
Skills, Money Management, Self-defense, and Domestic Violence. They also
learned about themselves through an outdoor ropes & challenge course. I was
privileged to be a staff member at GLOW. It was a wonderful and exhausting
experience and I feel was very successful in its objective of showing young
people they do have choices; they can break free; and they can lead the change
that is needed in their communities. (See
poem below entitled Transformation) <o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3l8Ej-60AEp5fny45wpYNoHu2mohriZKcSHn0bMPGX-_-dTYeKlm_bu_r8hYCQt6D0iCrWZ04cjr_O-dkqOtaxLgZFd4h5IJEC4o48Sqz15HqsNEriVGq4v1oB_KCl3kDkiqK9Rm6S6U/s1600/DSCN2718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3l8Ej-60AEp5fny45wpYNoHu2mohriZKcSHn0bMPGX-_-dTYeKlm_bu_r8hYCQt6D0iCrWZ04cjr_O-dkqOtaxLgZFd4h5IJEC4o48Sqz15HqsNEriVGq4v1oB_KCl3kDkiqK9Rm6S6U/s320/DSCN2718.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purse Making for Money Management session</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I co-taught the sessions on business & income generating
skills and money management. I led the practical sessions on building sack
gardens and liquid fertilizer and am happy to say they were successful. I don’t
think my future entails being a teacher, but I think I didn’t suck at it! I had
great fun being the slightly silly older counselor…dancing and joking with
everyone every chance I got. I hope it was entertaining to them – I sure
enjoyed it! I am glad I was not required to assist in the class where the girls
were taught how to put a condom on their partners. Imagine being in the room
with 6 wooden penises and having these young girls practicing that assignment.
I was glad to be an economic development volunteer on that day! <o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO0mlKO9WixbFYq7IcSJDIxYfCFJ_oUzDYChRECRflGnlj1vUu1UT1X4F0CCL9HhONZrSmcGQ4lPvg7adMtLECRShzb4WoXpy-J8lhJccW_MVqL6wfegFIkyXrZOAKESTxlWJJdxM_YfQ/s1600/100_8088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO0mlKO9WixbFYq7IcSJDIxYfCFJ_oUzDYChRECRflGnlj1vUu1UT1X4F0CCL9HhONZrSmcGQ4lPvg7adMtLECRShzb4WoXpy-J8lhJccW_MVqL6wfegFIkyXrZOAKESTxlWJJdxM_YfQ/s320/100_8088.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Young Ladies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2L-kCLnG3HBsBZaN4bvPEj5I-q8YKEXhbrOOB3Ou0HGs79kqL6dDx8TX2udgEVgucTZW4Kifh5fdKh4tHzR-5z1TLj6tI7IRdqAxTNTLAHnLSrb3v3ri98nCrwL5XHUBJnk5vuGAkP4/s1600/100_8073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2L-kCLnG3HBsBZaN4bvPEj5I-q8YKEXhbrOOB3Ou0HGs79kqL6dDx8TX2udgEVgucTZW4Kifh5fdKh4tHzR-5z1TLj6tI7IRdqAxTNTLAHnLSrb3v3ri98nCrwL5XHUBJnk5vuGAkP4/s320/100_8073.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I nominated 3 young men from my school for Boys camp -all but far right </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaKZXNxMaq5ZTwzX-lCrU2nx2LEZqfWsltb1ocl8IZ0S3TEPpZ14apula_rwWxJ3w0vZnnQfeU6z-ri92B2So56mRLHq3TEg0TIdsFOUhTMeQIJg40dU1FiT-UxTzxa1CHi1Zyd9Hyu4/s1600/IMG_0860.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaKZXNxMaq5ZTwzX-lCrU2nx2LEZqfWsltb1ocl8IZ0S3TEPpZ14apula_rwWxJ3w0vZnnQfeU6z-ri92B2So56mRLHq3TEg0TIdsFOUhTMeQIJg40dU1FiT-UxTzxa1CHi1Zyd9Hyu4/s320/IMG_0860.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and friend Rashida</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8djUaqdFTlE30BlSnoLroRIKknMA8sb4CcO70wXYpoebwwh9l-EdoRauhDjsBXPumMp8DcVwARmCX_mB1io75DVB6Nbm32sR4TpTSc2HnUFOgF3yJZVGK23byi4-j6uOdbMHhKTRW_VE/s1600/DSC02038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8djUaqdFTlE30BlSnoLroRIKknMA8sb4CcO70wXYpoebwwh9l-EdoRauhDjsBXPumMp8DcVwARmCX_mB1io75DVB6Nbm32sR4TpTSc2HnUFOgF3yJZVGK23byi4-j6uOdbMHhKTRW_VE/s200/DSC02038.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 10px; text-align: center;">Not flattering but shows the work I was doing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyjtD8Upnc7rqvvrzCIYqW2pH_O57VDSpe2R8Ih0WeAQac74zvPCnBExRcSjXgZjxvjIn5v4kviI874uuLKWstJs2LxgqiJtQiqIiqOxr_UB614sD47TUkhqVeZsrK74Ali26qu3pVqo/s1600/IMG_2018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyjtD8Upnc7rqvvrzCIYqW2pH_O57VDSpe2R8Ih0WeAQac74zvPCnBExRcSjXgZjxvjIn5v4kviI874uuLKWstJs2LxgqiJtQiqIiqOxr_UB614sD47TUkhqVeZsrK74Ali26qu3pVqo/s320/IMG_2018.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Explaining the camp Rules- Yes - I am a Ham!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u>Follow up to Care
International Learning Tour mentioned in previous blog post.<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Here is the photo Senator Isakson sent me of our meeting
back in April. His staff informed me he is framing the poem “American Skin” and
hanging it on the wall of his office. I feel kind of important now! But somehow
living in a hut with limited electricity and no running water is keeping me
humble. No room for a big head here in Uganda. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVQR-OpAJdbIlf_F1x5JLPqUJLOPTRYun-Ce4nyWEJkd8Z9lcXU0F3v0PPsH5ykxt5u5fqorIpP_-IgKMZhqNsIS_f-iFqxvOL2e-bnq1TPPeUltTkX-pp8QWd9ZTM15kbKq8cUAi00c/s1600/050412+UGANDA119+KND+++Sen+Isackson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVQR-OpAJdbIlf_F1x5JLPqUJLOPTRYun-Ce4nyWEJkd8Z9lcXU0F3v0PPsH5ykxt5u5fqorIpP_-IgKMZhqNsIS_f-iFqxvOL2e-bnq1TPPeUltTkX-pp8QWd9ZTM15kbKq8cUAi00c/s320/050412+UGANDA119+KND+++Sen+Isackson.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I also found out that one of the Chris-es of “Chris Squared”
is good friends with my husband’s cousin’s daughter….world’s collide and
explode!!!! Shout out to Sully from Gulu District Uganda! P.S. Please send me a
congressional coin like my friend Nancy got at the lunch in Kampala! I feel
left out. Ask Terri for my address in Nashville! <o:p></o:p><br />
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I am back at site for 5 days and then on to Kampala to be
trained as a victim’s advocate for Peace Corps Volunteers here in Uganda.
Hopefully no one will need my new skills, but as part of the New Peace Corps
Protection Act sponsored by Senator Isakson, these advocates are required in
case something happens. I’ll write more about my training when I return.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>Poetry – 1<sup>st</sup>
2 by girls at Camp Glow, Last 2 by me<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<b><u>Proud
Glow Girls <o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Proud are we the Glow Girls<o:p></o:p></div>
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Beautiful we look, eloquent we speak<o:p></o:p></div>
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The bright zebras! Calm crocodiles!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Elegant giraffes! The humble Ugandan
Kobs!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gallant Rhinos! Cheerful Lions! Assertive
Elephants!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cherished Monkeys! Royal Hippos and the
fastest Cheetahs!<o:p></o:p></div>
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All focused to be leaders of Uganda, The
Pearl of Africa<o:p></o:p></div>
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Proud are we the Glow Girls<o:p></o:p></div>
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So useful to nations, our communities, <o:p></o:p></div>
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The world at large.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Proud are we the Glow girls<o:p></o:p></div>
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To have our nice and loving counselors,
staff and co-directors.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We are proud of you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you Camp Glow<o:p></o:p></div>
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For teaching us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
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by Aete Claudys Komakech <o:p></o:p></div>
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Camp Glow Closing Ceremony April 29<sup>th</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>About Domestic Violence<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Women! Women! Women!<o:p></o:p></div>
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The mothers of the nation<o:p></o:p></div>
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Beaten and tortured by ruthless men<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whipped and raped by strangers<o:p></o:p></div>
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Crying with the poor child on her back<o:p></o:p></div>
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Digging from Dawn to sunset<o:p></o:p></div>
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With little to earn from the harvest<o:p></o:p></div>
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No food, much work<o:p></o:p></div>
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The ribs seen from a kilometer<o:p></o:p></div>
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Never! Never! Never!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shall it happen again<o:p></o:p></div>
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You hit me, I take you behind bars<o:p></o:p></div>
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When sad lean on friends<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Women! Women! Women!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Suffering no more<o:p></o:p></div>
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No more sorrows<o:p></o:p></div>
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Because we are strong and beautiful<o:p></o:p></div>
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And proud to be a girl<o:p></o:p></div>
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And I am the future leader of my country
Uganda,<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Pearl of Africa<o:p></o:p></div>
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Women! Women! Women!<o:p></o:p></div>
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……………………………………………………….<o:p></o:p></div>
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By Dr. Irene and Jacque<o:p></o:p></div>
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Camp Glow Closing Ceremony, April 29<sup>th</sup>,
2012<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Transformation May
1<sup>st</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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I watched it happen this week<o:p></o:p></div>
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100 shy, nervous, timid African
girl-women<o:p></o:p></div>
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Breaking free from expected submission<o:p></o:p></div>
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Through Encouragement, Effort,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Education, Mentoring and Love<o:p></o:p></div>
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They began to see a different path<o:p></o:p></div>
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Began to believe they could be leaders<o:p></o:p></div>
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For their country<o:p></o:p></div>
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Began to grow their courage<o:p></o:p></div>
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And their hearts<o:p></o:p></div>
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In ways they did not know<o:p></o:p></div>
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Was possible….For them<o:p></o:p></div>
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The ordinary young women of Uganda<o:p></o:p></div>
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Were transformed into the Extraordinary<o:p></o:p></div>
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They left us<o:p></o:p></div>
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With heads a little higher<o:p></o:p></div>
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With determination<o:p></o:p></div>
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Behind their glowing smiles<o:p></o:p></div>
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To lead their country to a better place<o:p></o:p></div>
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Where women are allowed to flourish <o:p></o:p></div>
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Attain their fullest potential<o:p></o:p></div>
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To raise <o:p></o:p></div>
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Their heads<o:p></o:p></div>
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Their children<o:p></o:p></div>
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Their country <o:p></o:p></div>
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With dignity<o:p></o:p></div>
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<u>Collecting
May 1<sup>st</sup> 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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A blessing given by grace<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is seeing the worth <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of all those <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am privileged to meet<o:p></o:p></div>
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A lifetime of collecting <o:p></o:p></div>
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Friends, extra sons & daughters, <o:p></o:p></div>
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Mentors, advisors, extraordinary people<o:p></o:p></div>
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Has made me wealthy<o:p></o:p></div>
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Resulting in a large, extended <o:p></o:p></div>
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Family of love and learning<o:p></o:p></div>
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People<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like rare gems<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or seashells<o:p></o:p></div>
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Are unique, interesting, captivating<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you study them carefully<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like art<o:p></o:p></div>
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Taking time to wonder <o:p></o:p></div>
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And appreciate the facets and spirals<o:p></o:p></div>
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All it takes<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is the interest <o:p></o:p></div>
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And a little time<o:p></o:p></div>
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To discover<o:p></o:p></div>
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Their inner light<o:p></o:p></div>
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That shines<o:p></o:p></div>
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Each is perfectly created<br />
Enhanced by life’s voyages <br />
Scratched, Dented, Chipped<o:p></o:p></div>
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Along the journey<o:p></o:p></div>
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Becoming flawlessly human<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Intentionally collecting <o:p></o:p></div>
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Those I find especially beautiful<o:p></o:p></div>
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Holding on through the years<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knowing each has lessons to teach<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gifts to unwrap<o:p></o:p></div>
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At different times<o:p></o:p></div>
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In different places<o:p></o:p></div>
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This glittering collection is definitely <o:p></o:p></div>
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My greatest treasure<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-91621381881059821022012-04-09T18:00:00.001+03:002012-04-09T18:07:32.127+03:00<br />
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<b><u>Learning Tour, BAMM,
Rain+Gardens, Work Update, Wedding, Poetry<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<b>Care International
Learning Tour<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsdQXNjVHf1EWT2HxaODYe4rvqp1uQSRyiVusmVe6GEv7kiCrxYifyRyUuDZb1IlWXUei2ck96F2lzCq-VFJDMCfAU0IYyse3Y9orhuwvW5UBjreny1OGDE54y4MJgYJWH0bgbrxb68M/s1600/101_7678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsdQXNjVHf1EWT2HxaODYe4rvqp1uQSRyiVusmVe6GEv7kiCrxYifyRyUuDZb1IlWXUei2ck96F2lzCq-VFJDMCfAU0IYyse3Y9orhuwvW5UBjreny1OGDE54y4MJgYJWH0bgbrxb68M/s200/101_7678.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Village Women in VSLA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Last week I was selected to be one of two Northern Uganda
Peace Corps Volunteers to travel with a Care International Learning Tour. “These
high-level delegations include members of Congress, the U.S. Administration,
corporate partners, donors, celebrities and other influential individuals.
Members of the media have often joined Learning Tours, and CARE brings a
photographer and videographer to capture the experience. “ (<a href="http://www.care.org/getinvolved/learningtour/learningtours.asp">http://www.care.org/getinvolved/learningtour/learningtours.asp</a>)
.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wrz0YlPxTtMgy_vtsUTJfXzIdVjA6p2tlOob0FFbpc4UQBqJ6-Ux52fGHt57sbkcLVGlmVxW1dxm94zfBmeaN34dYUPEkxdLv3Sn-rjkMsDy4_A5miQ6rp1XTTNB-kFVj8C1e8NO3W4/s1600/101_7714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wrz0YlPxTtMgy_vtsUTJfXzIdVjA6p2tlOob0FFbpc4UQBqJ6-Ux52fGHt57sbkcLVGlmVxW1dxm94zfBmeaN34dYUPEkxdLv3Sn-rjkMsDy4_A5miQ6rp1XTTNB-kFVj8C1e8NO3W4/s200/101_7714.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Kids in Awach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This program connects policy makers and thought leaders with the issues facing
development across the world. I traveled with Senator Johnny Isakson and Congressman
Jack Kingston, both from GA; Congresswoman Barbara Lee from CA; Helene Gayle
President of CARE USA; Former Ambassador to Uganda Jimmy Kolker, Jim Coughlan
President of UPS Customer Solutions, Catherine Conners, a Social Media Maven
and important person at Babble, a Disney Company (<a href="http://www.babble.com/">http://www.babble.com/</a>); Bo cutter of the
Roosevelt Institute; and several members of Care’s Staff…including Christina
Santos who rode in my vehicle and manages their annual advocacy conference. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2tk3LOlC70sJBJ8jrey1RS8zrnm4iEg47mWYxdnPM5KHXHQavBO5Pqe7mnSZrrcrGbEsxHiUa1rPn8SMR4GlRh8fYaC_d78pkLmINxgDv4sPcpLsyK-xTWZ31-bQ_WL13mdxp0aZH-k/s1600/101_7697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2tk3LOlC70sJBJ8jrey1RS8zrnm4iEg47mWYxdnPM5KHXHQavBO5Pqe7mnSZrrcrGbEsxHiUa1rPn8SMR4GlRh8fYaC_d78pkLmINxgDv4sPcpLsyK-xTWZ31-bQ_WL13mdxp0aZH-k/s320/101_7697.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ambassador, Senator, Business Man!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I was taken by vehicle to the Gulu Airport to meet the plane
as it landed. Waiting with me were the Gulu District Chairman and the Gulu
Resident Commissioner along with several USAID staff. A medium sized UN plane
landed and off came about 20 people. We boarded 13 vehicles, I was assigned #6,
and off we rode to a Village Savings and Loan group in Awach that uses the
group meetings to facilitate social services for its women and their men. We also
observed bead making, tailoring projects, and agricultural items they raise for
sale. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ45d_j7G2e4XuRkaq9wXHDK2cGTCtiC4QjrYjDUIbBNelLa4syExrdr4Hyu1kn-GouHYQ8VwK3BkYvdUk1e_VzLSDL_f7S563BObRFQcTZKQv7ePO5JJixYB87qLNLWzrERNdPKYRF6Q/s1600/101_7716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ45d_j7G2e4XuRkaq9wXHDK2cGTCtiC4QjrYjDUIbBNelLa4syExrdr4Hyu1kn-GouHYQ8VwK3BkYvdUk1e_VzLSDL_f7S563BObRFQcTZKQv7ePO5JJixYB87qLNLWzrERNdPKYRF6Q/s320/101_7716.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy baby!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Next we attended a Pathfinder International program (<a href="http://www.pathfind.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Programs_Uganda">http://www.pathfind.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Programs_Uganda</a>)
where they are working side by side with the National Community of Women Living
with HIV/AIDS (<a href="http://www.nacwola.or.ug/">http://www.nacwola.or.ug/</a>)
Here we witnessed how community volunteers visit people in their huts and
discuss their family needs and challenges and develop plans forward for
reproductive health and family planning. Our sample family was comprised of 2
parents with HIV and their 4 children…all HIV Negative to date!<o:p></o:p></div>
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On this one-day tour, I gave my poem American Skin (Posted
on this blog on March 25<sup>th</sup>) to Senator Johnny Isakson to thank him
for passing the Kate Puzey Peace Corps Volunteer Protection Act of 2011 <a href="http://www.gop.gov/bill/112/1/s1280">http://www.gop.gov/bill/112/1/s1280</a>.
As a token of thanks, he had his photo taken with me and promises to send me a
copy! I also met both his staff members – the dynamic duo of Chris Squared! My
nick-name for the 2 men named Chris. I was impressed with them all. Congressman
Jack Kingston was an easy to like, direct and intelligent man, who shared
several book titles with me and gave me a name for my husband to contact about
his business ventures. I admit I was
glad to see our elected officials in a more personal and less divisive setting
than shown on TV. They are real people! Really! <o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p0zKG_9gT56BA2ANYKdsyijxa1l4LWOi2S045CGusIEyZc_IWEbh7AXlThyAwLeDGQJJeXqRbE92aLoI-YfAo18y8FGKJDZu5F-B4MsGnPTIybEeEvfIFRkQjUdph6vO9s8GmcipIUs/s1600/101_7729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p0zKG_9gT56BA2ANYKdsyijxa1l4LWOi2S045CGusIEyZc_IWEbh7AXlThyAwLeDGQJJeXqRbE92aLoI-YfAo18y8FGKJDZu5F-B4MsGnPTIybEeEvfIFRkQjUdph6vO9s8GmcipIUs/s320/101_7729.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mommy's helper</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cnNHqRIFMhbe6AAQ1ctVfa3VstxyxGhshSf-uIZ6T1lke0BY7726R4Z99CbQ__52GErrq-p4V4q3IOhd6gPUUfegyJov2yglICLl71avtctaDj6JfiVkl66si8hrh3VxoeeXeEzJSWE/s1600/101_7734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cnNHqRIFMhbe6AAQ1ctVfa3VstxyxGhshSf-uIZ6T1lke0BY7726R4Z99CbQ__52GErrq-p4V4q3IOhd6gPUUfegyJov2yglICLl71avtctaDj6JfiVkl66si8hrh3VxoeeXeEzJSWE/s320/101_7734.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Congressman Kingston in hut with kids</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZsWp3pBRztRwbY6epGZx6IErYfTHQgkS7sqlNcNvDInoNFM_4rnZAFxZE6LzibbW-89R5fWJ-Sx6_sxAQ_ZO58aTyRTNJKSznCja3N0ix1UwqxdQc9LM5RtM3WE9NbZxf0GcbNx3P4M/s1600/101_7739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZsWp3pBRztRwbY6epGZx6IErYfTHQgkS7sqlNcNvDInoNFM_4rnZAFxZE6LzibbW-89R5fWJ-Sx6_sxAQ_ZO58aTyRTNJKSznCja3N0ix1UwqxdQc9LM5RtM3WE9NbZxf0GcbNx3P4M/s200/101_7739.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Congressman Kingston and friend</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PnO5YNfmTcjg-NJGJSCd-7afqXTQWiJOx4ekKam0mlWSQq7lGQtnjkV57gaDwH53zNmtgu_mM4Yt00UWOusv2StqmKmI2KiAhDA4Z0CxUZqzHvdkAI1NtP4qKPRq-Ep1z_JBAQPo6T4/s1600/101_7741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PnO5YNfmTcjg-NJGJSCd-7afqXTQWiJOx4ekKam0mlWSQq7lGQtnjkV57gaDwH53zNmtgu_mM4Yt00UWOusv2StqmKmI2KiAhDA4Z0CxUZqzHvdkAI1NtP4qKPRq-Ep1z_JBAQPo6T4/s200/101_7741.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mommy Blogger and friend</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Riding in vehicle #6 were Karla (Me), Catherine and
Christina. We traveled in a 13 car convoy with security men checking each
vehicle after every stop before moving to the next destination. I felt like a
celebrity with all the cameras (both video and still photo), security and media
people in “My entourage”I hope Christina sends me some photos of me with the
big wigs!! AND Catherine works for Babble.com and may check out my blog (She at
least asked for it). I may be “Discovered!” ....finally, ….or not!</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJaYghO7vTpbPvQY3wzsK22orUhlWHgww7jwMc89ZEfIM22e7INHJALm4kS9y55iMDdrfiE4nWaGnUYsPrzCXL29X4Vo7NGo3qagTiqWgUweTCO6SZfD0s7uEmtG0cBIUFkg4HolSRUDw/s1600/101_7700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJaYghO7vTpbPvQY3wzsK22orUhlWHgww7jwMc89ZEfIM22e7INHJALm4kS9y55iMDdrfiE4nWaGnUYsPrzCXL29X4Vo7NGo3qagTiqWgUweTCO6SZfD0s7uEmtG0cBIUFkg4HolSRUDw/s200/101_7700.JPG" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paper Beads</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfE72hkKc3sdAuHnuCRmPxqU5RvM68woZ62BZFkUozvWpVi-vbdhybrV9M_rOXmfZY4P4IJ2MDH-s_MxvG2GbmTAGKKWaCEl_53ixRERLIiE4xBTbeEYHK07VGhF9PWvsgvb_qm5IwFV4/s1600/BAMM_2012_logo%5B1%5D.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfE72hkKc3sdAuHnuCRmPxqU5RvM68woZ62BZFkUozvWpVi-vbdhybrV9M_rOXmfZY4P4IJ2MDH-s_MxvG2GbmTAGKKWaCEl_53ixRERLIiE4xBTbeEYHK07VGhF9PWvsgvb_qm5IwFV4/s200/BAMM_2012_logo%5B1%5D.png" width="200" /></a><b></b><br />
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<b>BAMM – </b>April is Blog
About Malaria Month (BAMM) for PCVs<b> </b>in
Africa. This is connected to a new initiative in Peace Corps called Stomp Out
Malaria in Africa that unites the efforts of the volunteers across country lines.
“Peace
Corps Volunteers have been working in malaria prevention since the agency’s
beginning in 1961. Now, through Stomping Out Malaria in Africa, sub-Saharan
Africa’s 3,000 PCVs and 25 Peace Corps posts will be sharing ideas, best
practices, and information about projects they are working on in malaria
prevention. “ <o:p></o:p></div>
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So my best practices are – I sleep under a mosquito net every
night, I take my malaria medicines every day, I wear bug spray and long sleeves
to thwart the dreaded mosquitos, I get rid of standing water, and I hope to
make mosquitos nets as an income generating activity at my school and
distribute them across Uganda! THAT’S MY BLOG AND I AM STICKING TO IT!<o:p></o:p><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi09UY_KTLBlKekIKKSSinWZHxPj7pMbCIBbNZg7bSPiQZ_FCWeFx7pACkrC2twmIktHRdnnnDz_pgjc9MSktfZzKov7asIvdEUJlo7OXJVdiQq8KFOSENYo4fpsi8x-iH6xy8MwncOsrI/s1600/101_7751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi09UY_KTLBlKekIKKSSinWZHxPj7pMbCIBbNZg7bSPiQZ_FCWeFx7pACkrC2twmIktHRdnnnDz_pgjc9MSktfZzKov7asIvdEUJlo7OXJVdiQq8KFOSENYo4fpsi8x-iH6xy8MwncOsrI/s320/101_7751.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Agriculture Student Seed Beds</td></tr>
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<b>RAIN </b>– the day
after the group tour left, the rainy season set in. Temperatures dropped to the
low 80s and moisture returned to Northern Uganda. In today’s blog, in the
poetry section, is my response to this welcomed event. Rain means I can begin
my gardens…Flower and Vegetables. On Saturday I hired several young male
students to clear some of the bush for me – This is still in process. I think
the plot will be approximately 40 feet by 40 feet. I will definitely take seeds
(placed in a ziplocks) if you want to send a package. Our Agriculture students
already began their seed beds and have been working outside my house for
several weeks now. My flowers are already planted around my home – though I
plan to plant many around our office building next weekend. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIUYFW-JmxCXgGasyskg0QTL4bX1ekYg6M35FiziQTKLt2CWUkpCiG22K9N2ee6x2O4CdPFZ27BatInwjAPvu4V26d4ArUYL_OAN7qKgSCTH99kkWLMnp1H9z2zLp7ga52RKAr8wPAy4/s1600/101_7662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIUYFW-JmxCXgGasyskg0QTL4bX1ekYg6M35FiziQTKLt2CWUkpCiG22K9N2ee6x2O4CdPFZ27BatInwjAPvu4V26d4ArUYL_OAN7qKgSCTH99kkWLMnp1H9z2zLp7ga52RKAr8wPAy4/s320/101_7662.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My latrines and bathing area and my supervisor's chicken house</td></tr>
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<b>WORK Update </b>In
pursuit of<b> </b>a brick making machine, I
traveled to Gulu and walked to the District Engineer Offices. I waited in the
lobby on a Friday morning for over an hour for someone to accept my written
letter requesting information of assistance on locating these machines donated
back in 2009. Finally a helpful gentleman who is the Engineer for Schools invited
me to his office. Upon reading my letter he said the district had 4 such
machines and all I need to do is write a letter to the Chairman’s Office and
the Chief Administrative Officers Office and they will inform him to release
them to our school. He said none were being used at this time, so it is likely
I will not have to wait for them. So the
process has begun – stay tuned.<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1__FH8-lKX80J9wX-irKl8jdmmDAZvcr6hjDfcGahCWX6aJGP99Tu42opq2e0Tvux804xp7bvczbLWlPQA4_BvWnayFvTW0Vc74hjF5sKiVJMVvDlgsJZReYjK215vH8NjbvvigRGXUY/s1600/101_7770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1__FH8-lKX80J9wX-irKl8jdmmDAZvcr6hjDfcGahCWX6aJGP99Tu42opq2e0Tvux804xp7bvczbLWlPQA4_BvWnayFvTW0Vc74hjF5sKiVJMVvDlgsJZReYjK215vH8NjbvvigRGXUY/s200/101_7770.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dressed for the wedding - in front of fields near my home </td></tr>
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<b>Traditional Marriage</b>
– Yesterday, Easter Sunday, I attended a traditional marriage. I attended with
several members of the school staff and we decorated a goat to take as a
marriage gift. Yes I said <i>decorated a
goat</i>…it was alive and we wrapped it in vinyl wrapping paper and decorated
its horns and tail with ribbons and placed a garland around its neck. At the
marriage there were traditional dancers and speeches and many local
dignitaries. I even dressed up for the event. What is funny is the range of
attire. Fancy Ugandan dress as well as Corona T-shirts were de rigueur!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQNVVkW-Tnmo4o04OxTLodAupBocSt21xNt4uwyY2HJLwVPucsKEzsiL7QgBGDBBrjGc97o_iKNFE7wBC5m1UDg1HGeATXpFn4UUMY9Rdue2_oSo4Y9P3nDyKgUxiVBwWRNUjMQ1wzCc/s1600/101_7766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQNVVkW-Tnmo4o04OxTLodAupBocSt21xNt4uwyY2HJLwVPucsKEzsiL7QgBGDBBrjGc97o_iKNFE7wBC5m1UDg1HGeATXpFn4UUMY9Rdue2_oSo4Y9P3nDyKgUxiVBwWRNUjMQ1wzCc/s320/101_7766.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One great wedding gift!!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDTSHZr9TH7aYSP7T8o06ULugRV7T82WZcNGIMtGJIO-xdQgJlU8jtOssuH_BGfYiNB4Nyv6CfQ6elY68PSThENCGmvPCIMo6X1NVPCMmHjmMpbsyTh0EnchyphenhyphenrjAjYI7rsSVC_j3-W7k/s1600/101_7780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDTSHZr9TH7aYSP7T8o06ULugRV7T82WZcNGIMtGJIO-xdQgJlU8jtOssuH_BGfYiNB4Nyv6CfQ6elY68PSThENCGmvPCIMo6X1NVPCMmHjmMpbsyTh0EnchyphenhyphenrjAjYI7rsSVC_j3-W7k/s200/101_7780.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional Dancers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUNwxa3AA-wxl-EozZ-erRpgnVR1fuaL2esEU2z2VqlWr46f_Pg1rf5ztUfaDYveUd22XniOk7wxlgnUi6e5cPcoRIblhNuaDfNov53lm2pQivvZOl04odxvLK4beNJGs8jEssufkzwY/s1600/101_7808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUNwxa3AA-wxl-EozZ-erRpgnVR1fuaL2esEU2z2VqlWr46f_Pg1rf5ztUfaDYveUd22XniOk7wxlgnUi6e5cPcoRIblhNuaDfNov53lm2pQivvZOl04odxvLK4beNJGs8jEssufkzwY/s200/101_7808.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Girls in Courtship Dance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ivfHaQ0VtZQYZPO7YTF6O0EstkIvCwQ1BR9sPDrEZsUndBSLPp5Mrr2bJoC3tmdFVWWv9EPpGygGo_wNN8Rie-eGRMmmCBmnBjxO8EydQPMDNyKaXwdqlFYoErbHDivt_y0Z3fkp5Q8/s1600/101_7787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ivfHaQ0VtZQYZPO7YTF6O0EstkIvCwQ1BR9sPDrEZsUndBSLPp5Mrr2bJoC3tmdFVWWv9EPpGygGo_wNN8Rie-eGRMmmCBmnBjxO8EydQPMDNyKaXwdqlFYoErbHDivt_y0Z3fkp5Q8/s200/101_7787.JPG" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drummer </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAWNSp59BiY1m9K28Jdtwn2QmxDp07XsxI3sOrilzPtbdqT6sUd4Szfose0xN35hrmn6eSJy9oeEhjVhxJYlBbc5QZUBPaLn21cqVG1nlJS90WAfc3xFiK0eUrszjIt8Qv63KVTqSos7A/s1600/101_7815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAWNSp59BiY1m9K28Jdtwn2QmxDp07XsxI3sOrilzPtbdqT6sUd4Szfose0xN35hrmn6eSJy9oeEhjVhxJYlBbc5QZUBPaLn21cqVG1nlJS90WAfc3xFiK0eUrszjIt8Qv63KVTqSos7A/s200/101_7815.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Australian Volunteer Dancing in Courtship dance </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Poetry</b></div>
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<b><u>Rejoicing Earth April
6, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Glorious Rain<o:p></o:p></div>
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Begins with a scent<o:p></o:p></div>
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Faintly blowing across the fields<o:p></o:p></div>
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Intermittent caresses<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of cooler thickening air<o:p></o:p></div>
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Strengthening winds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Warn of the approaching symphony<o:p></o:p></div>
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Clashing cymbals of lightning<o:p></o:p></div>
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Followed by thunderous bass drums<o:p></o:p></div>
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Building into the percussion crescendo<o:p></o:p></div>
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Millions of tiny droplets<o:p></o:p></div>
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Punctuated by the torrents<o:p></o:p></div>
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Racing off the roof<o:p></o:p></div>
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Slowly retreating into softening stanzas<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of a soothing steady drizzle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fading into gentle drips and drops<o:p></o:p></div>
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Which lessen<o:p></o:p></div>
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Until it is gone<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the earth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rejoices<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anew<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Toughest
Job April 6, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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In Peace Corps I learned <o:p></o:p></div>
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It was <i>The Toughest Job You’ll Ever Love<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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But I disagree<o:p></o:p></div>
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Parenting, by far <o:p></o:p></div>
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Embodies that phrase<o:p></o:p></div>
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The most beautiful, awe inspiring
entities<o:p></o:p></div>
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You will ever encounter<o:p></o:p></div>
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Are your children<o:p></o:p></div>
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The weight of the responsibility<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of being their guardians<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is overwhelming<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rearing children looks easy, obvious<o:p></o:p></div>
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Until you are blessed with the job<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then the crushing uncertainty enters in<o:p></o:p></div>
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When to hold on, when to let go<o:p></o:p></div>
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When to protect, when to let fail<o:p></o:p></div>
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When to correct, when to keep silent<o:p></o:p></div>
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When to engineer, when to sit back and
observe<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The magnitude of the consequences<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of your actions & decisions<o:p></o:p></div>
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Can paralyze<o:p></o:p></div>
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For your children<o:p></o:p></div>
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You will give everything<o:p></o:p></div>
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Money, time, your life<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unfortunately<o:p></o:p></div>
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The process is not offered as an exchange<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is a continuous commitment<o:p></o:p></div>
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To think & re-think<o:p></o:p></div>
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Test and observe<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trust and verify<o:p></o:p></div>
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Changing your tactics<o:p></o:p></div>
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As best you can guess<o:p></o:p></div>
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Based on reading the tea leaves<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rarely knowing<o:p></o:p></div>
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The outcome<o:p></o:p></div>
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Until 20-30 years pass<o:p></o:p></div>
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And they welcome their own<o:p></o:p></div>
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Miracles into the
world<br />
Taking on the Toughest Job<br />
Themselves<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Anxiety March
27, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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In the grip<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pressure like a python<o:p></o:p></div>
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Squeezing my chest<o:p></o:p></div>
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Racing heartbeat, rapid breathing<o:p></o:p></div>
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Stemming from <o:p></o:p></div>
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Anxiety<o:p></o:p></div>
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Seeming to come from nowhere<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trying its best <o:p></o:p></div>
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To instill panic<o:p></o:p></div>
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Feeling the need to run<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anywhere<o:p></o:p></div>
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To escape the weight on my breastbone<o:p></o:p></div>
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Deliberately taking deep breaths<o:p></o:p></div>
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Forcing my thoughts <o:p></o:p></div>
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On the positive <br />
Blessings<o:p></o:p></div>
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Recognizing it will pass<o:p></o:p></div>
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As it always has<o:p></o:p></div>
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If I can repel <o:p></o:p></div>
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The overwhelming wave of <o:p></o:p></div>
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Anxiety<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-31900507587206499612012-04-04T14:43:00.001+03:002012-04-04T14:43:44.344+03:00Thanks Mom and Dad<br />
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Wednesday, April 04, 2012<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Dear Mom and Dad-<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I am so grateful for the love and support you have shown me
over here. I realized today that you are doing for me what
I would do for my sons if they were in Peace Corps – I would be thinking of
what they need and might like and then I would spend time collecting things and
enjoying the process of caring for my grown sons again…just like when they were
young. I suppose that is what you are
doing for me! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Your package arrived today and I Love this box the most – it
was full of great items that made my eyes well up. The dinner plate hibiscus
and moon vine seeds are such a great connection to Graceland. I also love the horse-print
purse! The side pockets are the perfect size for carrying a water bottle. I
think I will share the purse design with the craft designer at Comboni
Samaritans as they had asked for new product ideas. I needed a purse mirror and
you sent one without me asking – mind readers!! Also the foods, tape and
lotions – I especially liked the aloe foot socks – I cant wait to put them on
when I get back to site.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So I want to say thanks – thanks for giving me such a happy
childhood, thanks for living through hell with me as a teenager, thanks for
giving me room to grow up and create my family, thanks for welcoming my sons
into your lives so graciously and thanks for letting me feel like your child
again as a 49 year old woman. Isn’t life
a miraculous circle! <o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-76986621455584455472012-03-25T10:39:00.000+03:002012-03-26T08:30:01.649+03:00HEAT, Work Update, You want to Join Peace Corps? , Poetry<br />
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March 24, 2012</div>
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<b><u>HEAT HEAT HEAT<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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The hardest challenge this last week is the heat. I keep
hearing the rainy season is coming; however, the dry season is hanging on with
a vengeance. March has been unbearable. The heat is beginning to make me a
little nutty. The temps are not higher than in the southern US, but the lack of
reprieve is what makes it hard. Remember there is no air conditioning or
refrigerators or ice, so the 95-100 degrees never lets up. Several nights this
week I lay in bed practically naked on top of my sheets feeling the sweat
trickle down my arms and legs. I fantasize about crushed ice in a large big
gulp cup of coca cola or a cherry lime-aid from sonic!! Once the rains come –
which I hear are very late this year – lucky me – the temps should drop and
become lovely again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u>Work Update<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSOxpqCcenm2M5_a4yfykq_2RpXpGsEqp6aG0MyqRrRqEUKfIbAkAzuwfaAuVf_HRp2xH9yEDfz1VPsY4Zvtvv5jdrrqS8pcy6aLRebTrxLcDXgvJarimPobRIVLPdZe_fkleJOlfL3k/s1600/101_7569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSOxpqCcenm2M5_a4yfykq_2RpXpGsEqp6aG0MyqRrRqEUKfIbAkAzuwfaAuVf_HRp2xH9yEDfz1VPsY4Zvtvv5jdrrqS8pcy6aLRebTrxLcDXgvJarimPobRIVLPdZe_fkleJOlfL3k/s320/101_7569.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 10px;">Agriculture Students Making seed beds in front of laundry drying on drip irrigation fence</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Well – It’s been a while since I talked about my work – so
here is a quick update.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think the most successful thing I have done so far was to
set up a “library” at my school. I had the chance to buy a box of “throw away”
books from an organization who received some books from Books for Africa. This
is a US non-profit that sends books by the shipping container load to Africa –
the cost is approximately US $4,000 and that covers the shipping of the
container to Kampala. I was offered this leftover box of books for approx. US
$4 – it had comic books, 12 books on farming in the Midwest and several story
books – none of them best sellers or even noteworthy – except for one book on
Mardi Gras that I am keeping myself – It helped me explain the Mardi Gras
Dabloons (SP?) sent by my big Bro Kirby along with my Rex pin 2012!!! The book
had a picture of Rex himself and some Dabloons! Who knew!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWKUmBQZpQUzrAwelrD-j61WySoFPjjCNnvCtRhb3tQLrnjqksMXB4zETpMDQHno4TkMfRqDe3NZ3pIEDWeZEzD6hem9eq9ivW2OuYyQU9NOcS0NyIrz3A7TdSEzx91vN7H_q4FTwXfY/s1600/101_7576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWKUmBQZpQUzrAwelrD-j61WySoFPjjCNnvCtRhb3tQLrnjqksMXB4zETpMDQHno4TkMfRqDe3NZ3pIEDWeZEzD6hem9eq9ivW2OuYyQU9NOcS0NyIrz3A7TdSEzx91vN7H_q4FTwXfY/s320/101_7576.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 10px;">Burning dead grass to kill soil bacteria and then mulching ash into soil</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Anyway we catalogued the books – approximately 45 in all -
and stamped them with the school stamp – and then told the students and staff
about the new program. In one day all the books were checked out – and several
were read and returned in the very same day and exchanged for another one. In a
school where there are no books, not even textbooks and the only materials are
notebooks, getting something to read is a rare treat. I have seen the students
reading food wrappers to each other. So I am thrilled to see them reading
anything. I think I will organize some kind of book drive at some point because
this is a real need and this is capacity building – not just handing out money.
However – please wait until I get it planned as I have to pay “taxes” on every
package that arrives.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4s3RcajLX6YMXJmd0TlV7_y5MvH9Xj2THif0P87ghA8ZZgcu97BNuW87Bm7kXjVe_g6xscLeiyvPG6QVHy6zpcix2w_CTMB8AYue8AwJGqGdymiZnbj5CYYMGIEG7ipc04QivYXGyWTM/s1600/101_7531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4s3RcajLX6YMXJmd0TlV7_y5MvH9Xj2THif0P87ghA8ZZgcu97BNuW87Bm7kXjVe_g6xscLeiyvPG6QVHy6zpcix2w_CTMB8AYue8AwJGqGdymiZnbj5CYYMGIEG7ipc04QivYXGyWTM/s320/101_7531.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students Listening to entrepreneur speaker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A second, somewhat success, is my Entrepreneur Speaker
Series. An idea I borrowed from my Owen School volunteer work! So far we have
hosted one speaker. A graduate of our Carpentry & Joinery program from 1999
who has grown a successful small business and now has Carpentry, Metalwork and Agricultural
businesses. He spoke about honesty, hard work, delivering what you promise,
quality, and the value of a person’s word. I got goose bumps several times
during his talk as this is what these young people need to hear.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL75qAOHSIKeVE1oiAl_YkBw-vY2ZO_Lpk6TWUmnaRzLxpGMy2iOGOVYymU0sjD9eZQMeRCA-biUL1l78loZQ0sW-U31eyLCC0yTWC8EgYoBGneg2WXz8Xq874sVwvsgn3gVvB-PFtk2I/s1600/101_7533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL75qAOHSIKeVE1oiAl_YkBw-vY2ZO_Lpk6TWUmnaRzLxpGMy2iOGOVYymU0sjD9eZQMeRCA-biUL1l78loZQ0sW-U31eyLCC0yTWC8EgYoBGneg2WXz8Xq874sVwvsgn3gVvB-PFtk2I/s320/101_7533.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrepreneur speaker audience</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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I also organized an HIV/AIDS Voluntary Counseling and
Testing (VCT) day at Lukodi Village that occurred on Tuesday. Approximately 10%
of the Ugandan population is HIV positive. The women of Lukodi had requested
this service so they could test the men of the village. This same program will
come to test and educate my village of Koro and my school in June. I partnered
with an Italian NGO to come and provide these services…all for free. They prefer
to go where the service is requested and organized before they arrive.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I also have someone at Peace Corps trying to locate bulk
rolls of treated mosquito netting as I believe the school could become a major net supplier
in northern Uganda. Our tailoring dept is not well subscribed<br />
and we lack a strong teacher so we could use the idle machines for income
generation. I am hopeful for this initiative but it must be supported by
the school to be successful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I also am looking into a brick making machine for several
purposes: training, building a brick fence around our school, new school building
needs, and for income generation. In 2009, 40 machines were given to each district
in Northern Uganda. A fellow Peace Corps Volunteer has found the one in Arua
was idle and had it donated to his catholic vocational school. I am planning to
follow up with our Local Council and district engineer to see if the one for
Gulu district is being used. The machine
saves money and time and is more eco-friendly.
Our students can use the machine for training on the new technology and
for making new school buildings. We presently need a production showroom as
well as a new computer center. Eventually we can request a grant for computers.<br />
<br />
I am very hopeful to fund much of this through small investments - either
grants or loans. I prefer loans as they teach independence and long term are more
sustainable. The school has a good banking relationship and already has a positive loan history. So I hope they are not
looking for a free ride.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I have been selected
to be a staff member at the upcoming Peace Corps Camp for girls between the
ages of 14-18. It is called Camp Glow (Girls Leading Our World) and is the last
week of April. I will be teaching 2 sessions on income generation activities
(IGA’s) and Business skills. I will also help with organizing and logistics
when not teaching. My counterpart was also selected so we will both be there
together.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>So You Think You Want
to Join Peace Corps?<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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This Peace Corps program is still a very challenging
adventure…Challenging on more fronts than I can articulate. The cultural divide
is wider than I imagined, and the isolation is palpable on a daily basis. Also
it is difficult to know if you are making a difference most days…Though I am
told I am. According to Peace Corps, our class is presently at the lowest point
in the mental health cycle of a PCV. We’ve been here long enough to have the
newness wear off (8 months), and we still have a long time to go (19 months).
Also we have not seen the fruits of our labors yet – so we can get discouraged.
I am working hard to remain upbeat and try to keep a good mental perspective
through all of this. But I must warn those who think of joining the Peace Corps
that this is a very difficult, lonely journey. Of my original class of 46 we have lost 3 to medical
issues, and 3 to “this is not what I thought it would be”. However, for many it
is wonderful. I just attended a good bye dinner for a man in his late 50’s, who
is finishing his second Peace Corp service (Mexico for 3 years and Uganda for
2) and he plans to return to the US for 6 months and then rejoin Peace Corps to
teach math and science in Jordan for 2 years. So for the right people this is a
wonderful life adventure. For me, I am still figuring it out. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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For More on the Ups & Downs visit my friend Nancy’s post
from yesterday! She nailed it. <a href="http://atexangoesquesting.blogspot.com/2012/03/feelings-and-other-honesties.html">http://atexangoesquesting.blogspot.com/2012/03/feelings-and-other-honesties.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u>Drinking<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Related to the above challenges, drinking seems to go one
way or another…. primarily the younger people drink a lot – maybe as much as,
or more as back home; and generally the older PCVs drink less. Of course these
are generalizations, and there are old and young who do not follow this trend.
For me I have not drank so little alcohol since childhood. I may go 3-4 weeks
without anything, and then have one or 2. Drinking for me is a luxury that must
have the right environment. Here everything requires so much work, and safety
is always on my mind. So, I will plan to have a drink with my buds when I get
back on US soil! SO….please keep that bottle of bourbon in your cupboard for
me!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>Poetry<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Well I have written 34 poems since arriving in Africa. All
but the very personal have made it to this blog. This has been a significant
part of my personal development and a result of my “Vision Quest”. It has
required courage to put on paper my thoughts and feelings as they course
through me….Courage to feel them, and listen to them; and then courage to put
it on paper; and finally courage to share it. I recognize the themes of what
has been on my mind and find them reflecting the person I am. Themes of
self-identity, my physical person and the process of aging, the connections of
places and friends in my life and my appreciation for them, my joy in nature
and in the simple things, and the struggle of all of us as humans to
understand our purpose. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Thanks to those of you who have encouraged me to
continue. I have delighted in seeing which ones impact various people. I can
post 4 poems and have 4 different people express why different poems resonate with them. So enjoy the ones you like, and leave the rest for others! It’s just
a buffet of my thoughts! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<u>American Skin Mar 17, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Sneaking away from the 3<sup>rd</sup>
world<o:p></o:p></div>
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For a bit of respite<o:p></o:p></div>
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Close the curtains<o:p></o:p></div>
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Praise the stars & stripes<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hanging from the ceiling <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of my cement hut<o:p></o:p></div>
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So grateful<o:p></o:p></div>
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For being born an American<o:p></o:p></div>
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Wrapped from birth in this shawl<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of healthy societal institutions<o:p></o:p></div>
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So pervasive<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s taken for granted<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our layers of protection,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Support, Justice, Freedom<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gift wrapped and delivered<o:p></o:p></div>
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To us, the chosen<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rarely mentioned or noticed<o:p></o:p></div>
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Because it is expected<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is all we have known<o:p></o:p></div>
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Until …it
is gone<o:p></o:p></div>
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The absence is crushing<o:p></o:p></div>
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At times in sub Saharan Africa<o:p></o:p></div>
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Non-existent social services<o:p></o:p></div>
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No garbage collection<o:p></o:p></div>
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No water pipes<o:p></o:p></div>
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No sewage systems<o:p></o:p></div>
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Uncertain judicial processes<o:p></o:p></div>
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Questionable public officials<o:p></o:p></div>
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So grateful for the American wingspan<o:p></o:p></div>
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Reaching - all the way here<o:p></o:p></div>
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Protecting us – Serving us<o:p></o:p></div>
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As we serve<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even here we are privileged<o:p></o:p></div>
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White, Black, Indian, Hispanic, Asian<o:p></o:p></div>
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Wrapped in American Skin<o:p></o:p></div>
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A US Passport<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is our ticket to a place<o:p></o:p></div>
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Where others can only visit<o:p></o:p></div>
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In their dreams<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEp1OF4clTj76jdJsL0WXChcxdxDeNjSrzNBbXs4VrWAtB926jOKCHmiChxtibnFQlcx4Zt4b3I3-lZJhFt88AbTMChIBN60fqEhaV2lqYBtmyWQMFDEmhkFtuHHvmmhA914iR6Ho-h4/s1600/100_7044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEp1OF4clTj76jdJsL0WXChcxdxDeNjSrzNBbXs4VrWAtB926jOKCHmiChxtibnFQlcx4Zt4b3I3-lZJhFt88AbTMChIBN60fqEhaV2lqYBtmyWQMFDEmhkFtuHHvmmhA914iR6Ho-h4/s320/100_7044.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little slice of America in my home! (Curtains by Walmart!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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<u>Irrational
Addiction Mar 17,
2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Warm & Rich<o:p></o:p></div>
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So easy to love<o:p></o:p></div>
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Kick starts the day<o:p></o:p></div>
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Breaks the afternoon<o:p></o:p></div>
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Closes the evening meal<o:p></o:p></div>
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Alone <o:p></o:p></div>
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And with friends<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or strangers<o:p></o:p></div>
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This self-indulgent vice<o:p></o:p></div>
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Brings illogical contentment<o:p></o:p></div>
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Reminds me of home<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of happy moments<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of daily routines<o:p></o:p></div>
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With my spouse<o:p></o:p></div>
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My sons<o:p></o:p></div>
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My parents<o:p></o:p></div>
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This humble ritual<o:p></o:p></div>
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This irrational addiction<o:p></o:p></div>
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Delivers so much more<o:p></o:p></div>
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Than a cup of coffee<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<u>Envy March 4<sup>th</sup> 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Envy<o:p></o:p></div>
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So seductive<o:p></o:p></div>
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To see others and be jealous<o:p></o:p></div>
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So easy to point out flaws<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cracks<o:p></o:p></div>
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Failings of others<o:p></o:p></div>
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To be righteous that they<o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t Deserve<o:p></o:p></div>
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To believe they are<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lucky<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unworthy of their Abundance<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of Love<o:p></o:p></div>
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Money<o:p></o:p></div>
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Looks<o:p></o:p></div>
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Talent<o:p></o:p></div>
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So easy to forget<o:p></o:p></div>
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They struggle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like you<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hurt<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like you<o:p></o:p></div>
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Are lost<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like you<o:p></o:p></div>
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Better to Celebrate<o:p></o:p></div>
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Be happy<o:p></o:p></div>
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For Blessings<o:p></o:p></div>
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To pray<o:p></o:p></div>
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Burdens are lessened<o:p></o:p></div>
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To Encourage and Love<o:p></o:p></div>
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Instead<o:p></o:p></div>
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Despise Envy<o:p></o:p></div>
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A terrible<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dark facet of our humanness<o:p></o:p></div>
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A direct path to hell<o:p></o:p></div>
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That glitters with temptation<o:p></o:p></div>
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For the weak and lonely<o:p></o:p></div>
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Who cannot see<o:p></o:p></div>
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We are all connected<o:p></o:p></div>
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That Envy is our Enemy<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<u>Time March 3 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Time<o:p></o:p></div>
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To wait<o:p></o:p></div>
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To think<o:p></o:p></div>
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To day dream<o:p></o:p></div>
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To let go<o:p></o:p></div>
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To breathe<o:p></o:p></div>
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To listen to your spirit<o:p></o:p></div>
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To be<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
Time<o:p></o:p></div>
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To remember<o:p></o:p></div>
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To forget<o:p></o:p></div>
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To inspect & evaluate<o:p></o:p></div>
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To meditate<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or not<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Time<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like you’ve never taken before<o:p></o:p></div>
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Time<o:p></o:p></div>
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Continues forward<o:p></o:p></div>
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Regardless of you or your plans<o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t wish the minutes to quicken<o:p></o:p></div>
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Passing like waters of a swollen river<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sink into the seconds<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like a queen surrounded by silken luxury<o:p></o:p></div>
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Time<o:p></o:p></div>
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To be self-indulgent<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<u>Masks March
3, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Wearing many faces<o:p></o:p></div>
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Playing the parts<o:p></o:p></div>
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That are expected<o:p></o:p></div>
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Roles:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Woman, Wife, Mother, Parent,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Child, Boss, Employee, Consultant, Expert<o:p></o:p></div>
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All requiring<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bits of my soul<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bits of my time<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pulling me to pieces<o:p></o:p></div>
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Reduced to anonymous titles<o:p></o:p></div>
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Losing<o:p></o:p></div>
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My name, myself, my Spirit<o:p></o:p></div>
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My joy<o:p></o:p></div>
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While the masks graft into my skin<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pained and scared<o:p></o:p></div>
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I remove them<o:p></o:p></div>
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Defiant to be unlabeled<o:p></o:p></div>
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The multitudes scream<o:p></o:p></div>
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This challenges the expected order<o:p></o:p></div>
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Threatens those who demand<o:p></o:p></div>
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I remain under the spell<o:p></o:p></div>
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Slowly<o:p></o:p></div>
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Deliberately<o:p></o:p></div>
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I extricate<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unearth<o:p></o:p></div>
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Uplift<o:p></o:p></div>
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The treasure<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of me<o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-79847458464940938702012-03-16T20:59:00.000+03:002012-03-17T17:08:58.783+03:00Response to Kony2012<u><b>Short Blog in Response to Kony2012</b></u><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
OK my 2 cents - In terms of the Kony2012 thing - everyone here thinks
its surprising this has come up now, as he has been gone from Uganda for 6 years. However
he is a scary evil dude and the world would be better without him - I am
working and living in the aftermath of Kony's legacy and yes it was horrible!!! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An IDP camp (Internally Displaced Persons camp) was across the road from our
school. The entire community slept at the camp every night for many years to
avoid abduction - they cut the trees down to stop rebels from hiding in them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However not just kids were abducted and killed - thousands
of adults / parents were killed - there are so many orphans and people who lost
one parent. These are my students - the orphaned and the returned child
soldiers. Most have been returned from the "bush" but all are
scarred. The students here have lost siblings just like the kid in the movie -
often burned to death in their huts. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have met people aged 16-30 who escaped but have burns and
stab wound scars to prove it. 20 years it went on and we never knew. On top of
that AIDS was rampant in the camps as people had little to do but drink and
have sex - so there is a huge HIV positive percentage in these communities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By the way - Invisible Children sponsors several kids at my
school. So they are here on the ground helping kids get educated.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I personally like his idea and tactics but its a little
after the fact. The biggest
problem now however is that 20 years of aid has led to a society of dependency.
People don't want to work for school fees when foreign aid will pay for it.
Everyone asks me for money because I am white and that is what white people do.
A whole generation grew up with food relief so people dont want to farm. There
are numerous programs now to jump start the farming process again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
USAID has been very involved here for a while as well - so
dont write off the American Govt for not helping. There was no mention of that
at all in the movie.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I like the idea of empowering people to stop a war - I
just think its after the fact - but still a good thing to do. Like killing
Osama 10 years after 9/11 - a nice closure but not changing a lot. <o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-89104117530562146602012-03-02T22:49:00.001+03:002012-03-03T13:08:11.402+03:00Friday Night, VAC, ESCAPE!, Beautiful Uganda, ...Poetry<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Friday Night</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Its March and I have been here 7 months – only 20 left. <br />
In some ways it seems to have gone rather quickly. Though there are days I
think to myself – “I still have 1 and ¾ years left.” That overwhelms a bit. However,
I continue to be excited to meet the person I will be on the day I return to
the USA. So I continue to sharpen the saw, polish the glass, and view the world
through a new lens. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I returned home from work, carried water to my bathing room
outside, turned on the drip irrigation for the night and then picked the leaves
off of a local green I purchased at the Koro market. This green is called “Bo” (pronounced
Beaux) ….they have another green called “Do-Do” (pronounced Deaux Deaux – like the
bird). I cook them both like spinach and tonight did a great job making pasta
with Bo, onions, garlic, and fresh tomato with olive oil and parmesan cheese. (Thanks for the Parmesan in my last packages!!)
I made Brownies last weekend and am perfecting the baking in a two pots over a
gas stove technique) Practice makes perfect…almost! Please know that you are
all on my mind constantly and I have a wall of fame to remind me of your
affection!<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVOx2SR2hemM5kJ8b5wwOk4l9Owflh8e9uBjAb0380NG_SD9wuWjjAm8Phl6LYueu1UWWC2W0ATTrCdtKsuh5PoCNj-xnrdIlDp61SvkEbbX8qCb6nHfcMyKrW7Yze-hL3nZs0Kg3TKCw/s1600/101_7446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVOx2SR2hemM5kJ8b5wwOk4l9Owflh8e9uBjAb0380NG_SD9wuWjjAm8Phl6LYueu1UWWC2W0ATTrCdtKsuh5PoCNj-xnrdIlDp61SvkEbbX8qCb6nHfcMyKrW7Yze-hL3nZs0Kg3TKCw/s320/101_7446.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wall of Fame! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>VAC<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I just returned from Kampala where I attended a Volunteer
Advisory Committee Meeting (VAC). I rode
down on the post bus with my friends Nancy & Michelle. We stayed at the New City Annex – a popular Peace
Corps Hotel/Hostel. The rooms are priced at 20,000 Ugandan Shillings per bed…a
little under $10 US. There are hall
bathing rooms and real toilets, and a sink in the middle of the hall for
brushing teeth. Feels like a dormitory, but this ranks as luxury to those of us
in the villages.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We usually get a triple room and the 3 VAC members (Me, Alia,
Michelle) stay together and catch up on each other’s PC adventures. We also
provide support and a listening ear for the numerous challenges faced in the
field. It’s amazing how much this camaraderie helps us keep perspective and
allows us to share ideas for coping with the constant stress of living like a
local in Africa. The hotel room with 3 women feels a lot like sleepovers from
my youth….Especially since I am almost twice the age of Alia and Michelle.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
We are feeling a bit down – the 7 month slump – as we
realize we have a long time remaining and we don’t yet feel like we are hitting
full stride in our projects. We hear this is normal for a PCV – so we just wait
for the next wave to overtake us…the thrill of feeling like we are making a
real impact. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Escape for Mental
Health!<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So to escape our present reality, we went to a movie theater
and saw “This Means War” – I really enjoyed it, especially watching Reese Whitherspoon
and the 2 hunky men. It truly was a great escape – seeing cities with traffic
rules and a semblance of order, functioning appliances, sidewalks etc... I forgot for a minute I was in Uganda….until
the projector broke, and we sat in the theatre waiting for the thing to be
fixed. Since it was a Tuesday at 2pm, we were the only people in the theatre. The
good news was the projector was repaired – otherwise I think I would have “blown
a gasket”. We also ate pizza (not like US pizza but a girl can pretend) and had
Chinese food that actually tasted like Chinese food! Miracles in Kampala do
exist.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Sunny and
Beautiful Uganda<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyM3sOIplzqaPBRgkpZHXX-x4FP-HkX1hNy9JpB8OAX9wlecIsAa0hGNcxAnFA6O5jS3PhetxXYDgU0Rgbr_RC8qh5cVwCUwo0aLLakB7g5kr1nCCAbF3AXT9g_UhBVSUh7AmMhRq2v4/s1600/101_7442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyM3sOIplzqaPBRgkpZHXX-x4FP-HkX1hNy9JpB8OAX9wlecIsAa0hGNcxAnFA6O5jS3PhetxXYDgU0Rgbr_RC8qh5cVwCUwo0aLLakB7g5kr1nCCAbF3AXT9g_UhBVSUh7AmMhRq2v4/s320/101_7442.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwi58dXpPVmKZ2vd51bxSVn4rr9QjmbE_KZLmJ0wZKjBe7YBEC-AAwgLnmtjCsdy2o5iDSh4mV_WqNXMZd3LXKHV7wB2oUJnGrMNQ0bzTikllEFE79Pw_VXLeeWeTZ9NizSwTC12UkVKM/s1600/101_7439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwi58dXpPVmKZ2vd51bxSVn4rr9QjmbE_KZLmJ0wZKjBe7YBEC-AAwgLnmtjCsdy2o5iDSh4mV_WqNXMZd3LXKHV7wB2oUJnGrMNQ0bzTikllEFE79Pw_VXLeeWeTZ9NizSwTC12UkVKM/s320/101_7439.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I keep being bowled over by the lovely vegetation they have
here. The trees and flowers are breath taking and I seem to be the only one who
notices them. I have never lived in California, but I think the weather is
similar – they just have more rain. So it’s naturally green – not green by
design. (Shout out to Bro Robert, Landscape Guru in LA). We are starting to get excited here for the
rainy season. This means we will be planting crops in our gardens soon. I am
hiring several students to clear the land and create the beds for me. So I get
to have all the fun. I brought tons of seeds and can’t wait to get them in the ground!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjDVw0PEQOlM3BKbiVxyPMbejwVGxg-JkgoVAjP7M9klMFDwBdp3IOOP9mNsudmRpX9PXsEMUYymz4_2OI6Wiqa3hVG6hC3ygBXTXy_iN-aZMc-t0RMVCFQyLnB9qrPur3o5rCAUbX68Y/s1600/101_7440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjDVw0PEQOlM3BKbiVxyPMbejwVGxg-JkgoVAjP7M9klMFDwBdp3IOOP9mNsudmRpX9PXsEMUYymz4_2OI6Wiqa3hVG6hC3ygBXTXy_iN-aZMc-t0RMVCFQyLnB9qrPur3o5rCAUbX68Y/s320/101_7440.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>School<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vs69Gjz2o3TAbKRe_eEPWf9Qb9664jCTD6UXrOs-5C5vlHb03U_PIF7Yal_tl-lXcAC3raOgR10cfr2GClTD74Q7D1EcmDZ_jUWzpJSYCni-4VGs4QTUedQRfb1_Yhod7Agh0B6V7UQ/s1600/101_7490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vs69Gjz2o3TAbKRe_eEPWf9Qb9664jCTD6UXrOs-5C5vlHb03U_PIF7Yal_tl-lXcAC3raOgR10cfr2GClTD74Q7D1EcmDZ_jUWzpJSYCni-4VGs4QTUedQRfb1_Yhod7Agh0B6V7UQ/s320/101_7490.JPG" width="320" /></a>Classes are in full swing. We have 4 Metal Working/Motor
Vehicle Mechanics Classes; one Driving class; 1 Tailoring class; 4 Building
& Concrete Practice classes,1 Agriculture class and 2 carpentry classes.
The Sponsored Program from GUSCO that I wrote about previously has begun. They
chose to sponsor 51 students and we are providing 3 month vocational courses to
this group. This helps the school with its finances and makes a big difference
to those in the community. I learned it
is funded by UNICEF – so thanks to those fine people!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnKc0BmCCcwMezaQBjWl-N86TDDpst_qgxcINE_VibhkpeLlsWeeO-ZRNSaAT0JuOW_hpHNMpEXXKb0YowcG8UjqqYzs_1fVK3gaZWGrDVZPafYhAnoQoY5icRGx76ONzqQxJREjRHGw/s1600/101_7474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnKc0BmCCcwMezaQBjWl-N86TDDpst_qgxcINE_VibhkpeLlsWeeO-ZRNSaAT0JuOW_hpHNMpEXXKb0YowcG8UjqqYzs_1fVK3gaZWGrDVZPafYhAnoQoY5icRGx76ONzqQxJREjRHGw/s320/101_7474.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnKc0BmCCcwMezaQBjWl-N86TDDpst_qgxcINE_VibhkpeLlsWeeO-ZRNSaAT0JuOW_hpHNMpEXXKb0YowcG8UjqqYzs_1fVK3gaZWGrDVZPafYhAnoQoY5icRGx76ONzqQxJREjRHGw/s1600/101_7474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnKc0BmCCcwMezaQBjWl-N86TDDpst_qgxcINE_VibhkpeLlsWeeO-ZRNSaAT0JuOW_hpHNMpEXXKb0YowcG8UjqqYzs_1fVK3gaZWGrDVZPafYhAnoQoY5icRGx76ONzqQxJREjRHGw/s1600/101_7474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="text-align: left;"><u>Poetry (A little
carried away with my physical self this month!)</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<u>The Illusion Youth Feb
02, 2012</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
The illusion of youth is certainty<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Being so sure of what is<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Indignant at those who question<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Knowing what is right all the time<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Now a bit envious of those times<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Not for the physical indications of youth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
But for its solace of sureness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Missing that feeling of confident righteous certainty<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
The ease of moving through time and space<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Self-assured, easy<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Though knowing it was illusion<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
We cannot return there<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
So we travel more timidly<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
With understanding & forgiveness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Through the uncertain terrain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Blessing the broken, weak & struggling<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Realizing our shared humanity<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Connects us all<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Only certain now that grey consumes Black & White<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Ode to my Choppers Feb
13, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
I am one of THOSE people<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
A Flosser<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
I love my teeth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
The never ending delight they bring<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Crunching Ice<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Slicing Steak<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Popping Cherry Tomatoes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
So glad to have healthy teeth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Flashing a bright smile<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Showing the world<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
They are not ignored<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Not taken for granted<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
These Teeth are cherished!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<u>Moderation Feb
2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Not too much<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Not too little<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Somewhere in the middle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Avoiding extremes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Keeping perspective<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Remaining in check<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Sidestepping destruction<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
And burnt fingers<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Finding pleasure<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
In the subtle & sublime<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Relinquishing the adrenaline euphoria<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
For a richer calmer bliss<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<u>Aging Friend March
2, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
She’s been there through it all<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
A friend for life – literally<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Always near & usually cooperative of my plans<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
As a young girl I hardly noticed her<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Took her for granted<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Assumed she would forever rise to the occasion<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
I couldn’t complain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
She is active, athletic, rarely sick<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Through the birth of my children<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
She performed admirably<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
There was no doubting her abilities<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Around 30 I noticed a few blemishes:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Stretch marks, smile lines<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
A slight slackening of the skin<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
At 35 the grey began to peek through<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Small silver rivers, mostly hidden<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
At 45 she couldn’t pretend <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
She was a young thing anymore<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Too much evidence to the contrary<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
The appalling age spots<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Protruding veins<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Loose skin at the neck<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Seeing her in full bright light<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
I realized my friend was aging<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
I suppose I saw it coming<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
But didn’t notice the years piling up<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Natural forces taking their toll<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Again – no complaints<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
She continues to do as she is asked<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Though now I pay her more attention<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Listen when she is tired<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Grateful she can participate in my activities<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
She really is terrific<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
This aging friend & partner<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
My amazing body<o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-23041574759162592902012-02-11T23:15:00.000+03:002012-03-06T13:38:48.629+03:00No Money, Lukodi, GUSCO, MP, Advising, Disasters,...and Poetry<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Feb 11<sup>th</sup>, 2012 Happy Birthday Meg - you are 1 in a Million, Cuz!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>No Money in Uganda<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am asked for money daily – usually by strangers –
occasionally by co-workers. Often it is for transportation, money to attend a
funeral, for a relative with AIDS, for a wife who needs surgery, or to help pay
school fees. I always say I can’t help
them. Which may seem awful, but as soon as I give money to one person, the
floodgates will … and I am here for 2 years.
So I empathize, say how sorry I am, and often give them a hug, which is
not a Ugandan custom. I assume they
think it’s a weird American custom for saying something like <i>life is hard</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However a week ago was the most difficult dilemma. Our
Matron (lady who oversees the girls’ dormitory) and grinding mill operator
mentioned again how sick she was feeling, especially in the chest area, and how
it hurt to breathe and spit. She welled up with tears and said “I am dying and have
no money for the hospital”. She was obviously very frightened and really thought
she was dying. I have no medical training and had no idea how sick she was, but
I could tell she believed she was very sick and dying. She never asked me for
money, she just said she had no money for transportation, hospital fees and
medicines. I believed her, since our staff has not been paid since November. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On top of this her grown daughter was recently severely
beaten by her husband. So she was gone for a few days to nurse her daughter.
The husband was arrested. Although it is OK to hit your wife, you are not
allowed to almost kill her. I have no idea how old the Matron is, as her life
of poverty has prematurely aged her. I do know she also has kids in primary
school and her husband is either dead or “gone”. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I hugged her and told her I was so sorry and I would pray
for her. I felt so torn. My heart was
talking and my head was talking. I listened to both knowing there are millions
more stories that are equally horrific and compelling. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I decided to find things in my home I didn’t need – the package
of incredibly large old lady panties a friend sent (to my horror), some mint
leaves and lemon verbena as herbal medicines for her chest, an extra package of
Band-Aids, and 2 extra pillowcases in a brown cloth pouch. Not much, but I told
her she can use or sell any of the items as she feels fit. So I skirted around
my “no giving money to Ugandans policy” by giving things she can sell. Funny
how the heart can out rationalize the head! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The outcome has been she has recovered and is now looking
almost 100% - I like to think it’s the lemon verbena and mint teas that helped
cure her. Maybe it was just that someone cared and tried to help that lifted
her spirits. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Lukodi<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Wednesday Feb 1<sup>st</sup>, 2012 I went with a reverend
from Kampala and representatives from Bright Futures Australia to visit Lukodi
Village – 17 Kilometers north of Gulu town. This village was the site of a
massacre during the 20 year war with the LRA. The village was attacked because
the LRA felt someone in the village had given information to the Ugandan army about
the LRA’s whereabouts. People were burned inside their homes, cut into pieces
and abducted – along with many other atrocities. This is not unusual in this
section of Uganda and I am reminded daily that almost everyone I meet has lived
through so many horrors. It was a bright,
hot day and everyone was smiling as they welcomed us. We interviewed many women
and village leaders to learn how aid provided from Bright Futures is helping
them recover. We toured homes, inspected agricultural stores, attended a
Village Savings and Loan (VSLA) meeting and inquired what their needs are at
this time. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zMyNXonruN8cMI1IP3UuQcPe8xP6Ao6Vd_ogfNQpHWNyFTwZi3_PIfobFqoW6ZvRTWsLeLihStMFrJW75Gkt6sH8xga5pNOP6__CZ6w7VVy6clj5e2wC2ceX3F4zptat_5nZgs_cGbo/s1600/101_7410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zMyNXonruN8cMI1IP3UuQcPe8xP6Ao6Vd_ogfNQpHWNyFTwZi3_PIfobFqoW6ZvRTWsLeLihStMFrJW75Gkt6sH8xga5pNOP6__CZ6w7VVy6clj5e2wC2ceX3F4zptat_5nZgs_cGbo/s320/101_7410.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They have received seeds, oxen, and education on farming to
help attain more secure food sources. They have been given chickens and goats
to help generate new sources of income. They have received improved water
sources and a grinding mill for the community. We were warmly greeted and even
watched some youth perform cultural dances. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One thing they asked for that I am trying to assist them
with is a mobile HIV/AIDS testing vehiclethat can come to their village. Most
women get tested – it is required if they go for treatment during preganancy.
However many men do not get tested and say they don’t want to pay to go to town
for testing. So the women want to get their men educated, counseled, and tested.
They feel a mobile vehicle is the only way it will get done. I am hoping I can
set this up through Peace corps, USAID or another organization.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>GUSCO<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gulu Support the Children Organization (GUSCO) <a href="http://www.gusco.org/index.php">http://www.gusco.org/index.php</a> is an
NGO that has selected 3 vocational schools to provide 3 month courses to war
affected youth to help them acquire skills to make a living. My school is one
of those selected schools, and I have been registering the potential students
as they come to register for the subsidized courses. This has been taking place
for the last 2 weeks and we have signed up almost 80 potential students to
date. Part of the registration is asking them a series of questions. <i>“Were they abducted by the LRA? Dates of
Abduction? Are they child mothers? Did they drop out of school?”</i> The
majority of registrants were abducted. Many come with papers documenting their
reintegration into the community and detailing the dates they were “in the bush”. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This has been a real front row experience for me. Most can only speak a little English
and we get through the questions using my infantile Acholi language skills and
their often better English abilities. The hardest part is when the effects of
the experiences are still severely debilitating to the young person sitting
across from me. I can see it in their eyes. They look like they may cry at any
moment and will not maintain eye contact. Frequently they stare at the ground
and answer in a whisper. I am also encouraged by those who appear to have
overcome the trauma to a large extent and are smiling and communicating with a
light in their eyes. They all seem grateful I am there and smile broadly when I
try to speak in Acholi. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Minister of
Parliament Visits Koro Abili<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Friday Feb 3, 2012 the Omoro County Minister of Parliament(MP),
and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, the Hon. Jacob Oulanyah rolled through Koro
Abili to address School and Business Leaders. Since the Director of our school
was not there I was selected to go along with our Deputy Director. The meeting place was across Kampala
Highway directly across from our school offices. I tagged along to witness the
event and was completely surprised when a man took my arm and led me to the
front of the room and placed me 2 seats over from the MP’s seat. I was then
asked to address the crown of approximately 80 and introduce myself. It’s funny
but if you are white person in a small village you are automatically an
important dignitary. I took a breath and with a translator introduced myself
and the objectives of Peace Corps and said I was excited to work with the community
to help in any way I could.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the MP addressed the audience in Acholi, he turn to me
and spoke in English thanking me and saying he was very familiar with our
school and will work hard to help us. Who knows, but I am hopeful he will keep
his promise.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Business Advising<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We just began a new term at school and I put the word out
that I am happy to meet with any students who want business training and
advising support. So presently I have 3 students whom I meet each Wed and
Saturday. Since this is a vocational school almost everyone will leave here and
try to support themselves with their skills. I plan to cover some theory, but
mostly practical steps to help them get started. I also I am working with the
administration on a speaker series of successful graduates and other local businessmen
to come talk to the students about their business journeys. This will be very
interesting to them and to me. Finally when I spoke at the Minister of
Parliament Meeting, I met 2 Gulu University Students who are studying business
and they have both asked for mentoring from me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Dry Season
Disasters<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes it is the dry season and I am very well equipped to deal
with the heat and lack of water. However, I did not realize the other
challenges I would face. The biggest problem for me has been that in Acholi
land all animals are released during the dry season to forage for themselves.
This has led herds of goats and cows to roam freely onto our campus to eat any
green thing they find. This means they have finished off our remaining cabbages
and in the process damaged a number of the irrigation pipes on our drip
irrigation field. They had also eaten almost everything I painstakingly planted
and watered over the last few months. I am very annoyed with this setback, but
I will rebound once the wet season returns. Thanks Mom and Dad for the
sunflower seeds!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wrote last time about Africa Burning and this continues –
however last night I found out they don’t always contain the fires. My friend Nancy’s
compound caught on fire around 1:30 am and she was awakened to the fire
crackling precariously close, just outside her window. She, I and her neighbors
frantically worked to contain it and keep the buildings from catching on fire.
This was all done with no running water – just filling jerry cans from the
water source just down the road and carrying it back to the fire. There was no
major damage but it was a very close call. Read more on her blog...<o:p></o:p><a href="http://atexangoesquesting.blogspot.com/2012/02/and-then-there-was-fire.html">http://atexangoesquesting.blogspot.com/2012/02/and-then-there-was-fire.html</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Poetry<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Sunscreen</u> <u>Jan 31. 2012</u><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
A happy
memory to take out <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
And roll over
in my mind<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Applying
sunscreen to my sons<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
A protective
tender ritual<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
While
vacationing<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Taking time
to pay attention<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
To the beautiful parts of life<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Smiling while
asking to be still<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Giggling at
the grimaces<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Anointing all
magical surface areas<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Lobes, Toes,
Neck, Nose<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Arms, Legs,
Foot tops!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
One simple
moment<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Encompassing
so much of motherhood<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Overflowing Eyes</u> <u>Jan 31, 2012</u><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
A favorite
movie line<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
<i>God is in the Rain</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
Returns to me
often<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
And I
manipulate it<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
As the moment
requires<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
God is in the
breeze<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
God is in the
effort<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
God is in the
resting<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
God is in the
sunrise, sunset, light & darkness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
God is in my
heart<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
God is in
your smile<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
I keep seeing
God <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
And
understand why<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3pt;">
My eyes
overflow<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>--------------</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>Yes they overflow and I am so grateful for the life I am living.</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>Hugs and love to all of you </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-21394713791789461102012-01-28T18:05:00.001+03:002012-01-29T14:12:09.779+03:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Jan 28, 2012 BOG, Graduation,
All-VOL, Africa Burning, Matatus, Poetry<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Happy Birthday to my
one in a million Niece! <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Board Inauguration</b>
– My school is governed by a board of governors (BOG) and we have just had a change
over to a new board. This requires getting the new members together along with
the Gulu District Education Officer (DEO) who must inaugurate the board. The
meeting was scheduled to start at 10am – this means I was ready to take the
notes at my post at 10am. However the DEO did not arrive until 11:45 and one of
our new members did not arrive until 12:30. Therefore we started 2.5 hours
late. No one seemed concerned about this so I just kept practicing my new Zen
like breathing technique. Something I am mastering over the course of my Peace
corps experience. Everyone who spoke – which is most of the 13 people, started
and ended with a prayer and a bible verse. This is the way it is done in Uganda
– and it still feels weird coming from the US where this is against the law in
most business settings. We ended with a meal of rice, goat stew and cabbage
which we ate with our fingers – something I am still not very adept at - and
the locals frequently laugh at my poor eating talents.<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Graduation</b> – I attended
my Counterpart’s Graduation party on Saturday last week. She graduated from
Gulu University with her Bachelors in Business Administration. She is a married,
fulltime working mom of three and has fit in going to school on the weekends
for three years. She is truly the best of African women in my book. Anyway she and
her husband hosted a party at her home. I rode there with my supervisor and we
arrived at 4:30pm. Upon our arrival we were seated just behind the row of major
family important people. There is a serious etiquette to where you sit, and I
was surprised to be placed so close to the front of the tent. Being the only
Munu (White Person), I suppose that makes you something of a dignitary! So then
began the 5 hours of speeches. Even I was asked to say a few words. (We did get
a break to eat after 2 hours.) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There were family members from her home in West Nile and the
most senior member of her clan had a long pole with something like a goat tail
on the end of it. During the speeches he would jump up and wave the “scepter”
and hoot and holler and incite the crowd.
At 9:30 the dancing started and I was told we were expected to spend the
night there as is the custom in Acholi land. Luckily my supervisor also wanted
to sleep in her own bed and not dance all night so we quietly excused
ourselves.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hNvkFdTdj_XRCE8rIcajxwzmVYMiR2vUM1y7NY7X5lM_VJHBHHv6CFlBamPbHAYr9bo4TpzguRq_pcQy7upno9bI_NVnoj3utkC-XLGgHYohURuIeTlJmoiQU-mSrYEKFCDbFUAOO-I/s1600/101_7228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hNvkFdTdj_XRCE8rIcajxwzmVYMiR2vUM1y7NY7X5lM_VJHBHHv6CFlBamPbHAYr9bo4TpzguRq_pcQy7upno9bI_NVnoj3utkC-XLGgHYohURuIeTlJmoiQU-mSrYEKFCDbFUAOO-I/s320/101_7228.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Counterpart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnlfLKRGuWRSvRIsz-jyWH8OruSVEDxPjaA9UxeHxlWkDpYgg8Tjb-Y9iMW1STiZ8BM9wcwSX57zKn8cCyLtEorlLpVeoIw87eBq5iZ3hyIQGHZZQJss5ptb7frbgo6fGGJhYxncaVrY/s1600/101_7242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnlfLKRGuWRSvRIsz-jyWH8OruSVEDxPjaA9UxeHxlWkDpYgg8Tjb-Y9iMW1STiZ8BM9wcwSX57zKn8cCyLtEorlLpVeoIw87eBq5iZ3hyIQGHZZQJss5ptb7frbgo6fGGJhYxncaVrY/s320/101_7242.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Senior relative celebrating!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br />Northern PC Volunteer
All Vol</b> – I went to Kitgum this last week to listen to various PCV’s speak
about projects they have implemented and receive advice on assimilating into
our new positions.We met under a Mango tree near a PCV's Hut. I learned of an NGO here in Uganda implementing alternative
forms of discipline (to discourage caning and other abusive practices) as well
use positive incentives for behavior change. My Director is interested in
learning more about this. I also observed a demonstration on making liquid soap.
This soap is for dishes, washing clothes and floors, etc. There is a savings
group in my school that is very interested in this skill for an income
generating activity – so I have asked the PCV that has been doing this to come
train my school and possibly a womens group in another village. My counterpart
says she wants to train her mom so she can make soap in west Nile area. I also saw a cool Metal charcoal burning stove that perhaps my school metal working dept can make. So the
conference seems to have been very useful. We also learned of several upcoming
camps in the Northern region for young men and women – so I plan to volunteer
to work those camps in April. I also returned with Moringa tree seeds that I will plant in the wet
season – it is a veritable magical tree with amazing health & nutrition
properties. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moringa_oleifera">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moringa_oleifera</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQKxaW50914mRLQ1I2IcZyAgYfURaCYaq1RMdQXemqkZbGE-6QHBHGjiZ7aeekahf-ZMYUTEneLzfx2oIBF5CuMU5Nu78FLb5obWyFXFbBpPKYeyUbPhQ9hYUCvx4xCBz0vQ1pSIL4F4/s1600/101_7330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQKxaW50914mRLQ1I2IcZyAgYfURaCYaq1RMdQXemqkZbGE-6QHBHGjiZ7aeekahf-ZMYUTEneLzfx2oIBF5CuMU5Nu78FLb5obWyFXFbBpPKYeyUbPhQ9hYUCvx4xCBz0vQ1pSIL4F4/s320/101_7330.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JoAngel-a friend I made!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Africa Burning</b> –
it is the Dry Season – it could also be called the burning season. Every day
there is someone nearby burning their fields to clear it for next season. This
is called bush burning and it is not good for the environment or for my lungs. All day little pieces of ash fall from the sky
and collect in my bathing area, latrine, in my house, on my desk etc. There are
small dark grey smoke columns rising up on the horizon from all directions. Some
how they seem to control these fires and keep them from spreading across the
landscape, however for the life of me I can’t tell how they are doing it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br />Matatus</b>-these are
van sized taxis that have 5 rows of seats. The front seat has the driver and is
supposed to seat three across. The remaining seats are also 3 across but in
Matatus, the minimum across is four people. This means on any given ride there
will be between 19 and 28 people squeezed into the “taxi”. Recently My friend Nancy
and I took a Matatu from Kitgum back to Gulu after attending the Northern Peace
corps All-Volunteer Conference. We were in the 3<sup>rd</sup> row and decided
to buy three seats to insure we were not crammed in to the fullest. This is an
incredibly spoiled American behavior, but I have some limits on my level of
African integration. Our driver accepted our requirement of no more than 3 across
our row, but that did not stop him from putting up to 6 people in the rows in
front and behind us. We were traveling for 3 hours on an unpaved road. It was
actually a pretty drive past villages with mud huts with chickens, cattle and
goats wandering about for my entertainment!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><u><br />POETRY</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><u>Bone Tired</u></b> <u>Dec
14, 2011<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Tired in a way that Sleep won’t
heal<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
A boxer depleted on the mat<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Trying to will himself back on his
feet<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Though not sure he wants to try <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Afraid he will have the wind
knocked out once again<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Yet more afraid to give up<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
An exhausted spirit <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
With a small intense flame<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Hopes to re-ignite a raging fire<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Yet also praying for an illness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
To surrender into<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
To justify not continuing to try<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
For all he feels is <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Bone Tired<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><u>Just a Long Walk</u></b> <u> Jan
19<sup>th</sup> 2012</u><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
I keep reminding myself<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<i>It’s
just a long walk<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
It doesn’t take more than one step
at a time<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
One foot, then the other<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Really that is not hard<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
If you take it in small pieces<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Breaking it up<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
So that the magnitude does not overwhelm<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
So my coming to Africa for 2 years<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Is like a long walk<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
And the only way to eat an African
Elephant <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Is one bite at a time <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><u>Magic</u> </b> <u> Jan 19<sup>th</sup>,
2012</u><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Sing praise for the magical powers
it has<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Beloved by man, and unable to be
dissected by science <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
All races revere, practice, and
celebrate it<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
In it, Babies and elders delight <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Youth carry it like armor and fling
it at the world<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Sad and happy people employ it<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Milestones, rites of passage, and
years are marked with it<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
As well as small daily increments<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
The sun is brighter<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
The wind softer<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
The night darker<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
The run easier<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
The touch of a lover more loving<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
All because of the magic of Music<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><u>Standing Still</u></b><u> </u> <u>Jan
19<sup>th</sup>, 2012<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Standing Still, For longer than you
imagined<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
So still, so you can hear your
breath, your heartbeat, the world turning<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
So long that you are off balance,
disoriented<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
So quiet that you might disappear<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
You stand, still listening, for
answers<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Not fully knowing your questions<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Hoping both are revealed in time<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
You left<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Searching for clues, signs, smoke
signals<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
To gain perspective, To find
meaning<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
So you stand still, forgetting to
breathe<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Wondering, Waiting, Watching<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Not ready to move just yet<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Hoping Goodness and Mercy shall
follow<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
The Stillness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><u>Joy of Running to Water</u></b> <u>Jan
22, 2012</u><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Late afternoon<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
In the dry season<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Tethered to a tree<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
For hours<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Full on Grass<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Parched & Dry<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Demanding release<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Bellowing to anyone<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst">
Excitement as a farm attendant arrives<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Bringing Freedom<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
At FULL RUN<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Heels kicking<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Frolicking with anticipation<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Across the football pitch<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Over the path<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Giddy with happiness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Eyes Singing<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Nose plunges into Coolness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Cow Heaven!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-50522923375656535882012-01-16T21:16:00.002+03:002012-01-16T21:18:21.193+03:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Uganda Routine, Chickens as a sign of Respect &
Friendship, Bountiful Blessings from USA <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Uganda Routine<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am fully settled in at my site. My 3 room home is really comfortable
and I am enjoying so much time with myself. I hope I won’t be too boring after
all this down time. My days are busy – during the week I rise at 6 have a Starbucks
Via and am outside turning on the drip irrigation at 6:30 and then watering my
little vegetable garden – since it’s the dry season there is never any rain and
it’s hot and sunny all day. Watering requires me to carry 2 5-gallon watering
cans back & forth for almost 45 minutes each morning and evening. I
estimate I carry 20-24 cans twice a day. So – to my friend Jen, the Goddess of
Fitness, my arms are getting very strong. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I try to get to the internet at 7:45 which entails carrying
my computer close to the main road to pick up a signal, and am at work by 8. (No
internet in my office-BUMMER) Then I work in an office with our accountant and
the school director – mostly giving advice and trying to keep the team
organized and thinking strategically. I make lots of lists and review them all
the time. I also help them with
proposals and grant applications. I share Microsoft Office tips and try to help
them increase their productivity. I also spend time coaching the Director on
leadership skills and management issues. The group is nice and appreciates my
input. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since I live on the school grounds, I walk home for lunch –
almost always a blend of Ugandan Chapati (flat fried bread) – and something
from America. I usually read for ½ and hour and then it’s back to the office. I
generally leave around 5:30 and get on the internet again and frequently skype
the hubby, and then walk to my house and change into my garden clothes. I again
run the drip irrigation system and water my vegetables. Around 7pm I bath and
then come inside to cook dinner. I have fresh milk every day from our school
cows. I must boil it and have become quite addicted to my warm milk with cinnamon
before bedtime. I usually save a little for my coffee in the am. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Weekends are filled with chores: clothes washing, weeding,
cleaning house and more rigorous garden work. I also go to town when I need to,
but have now enlisted my co-workers into shopping for me, so I can skip the
bike ride to Gulu Town most weekends. This does mean I don’t have a lot of
interaction with non-Ugandans. But so far this has been OK. I do have a week-long
training in March with my Peace Corps class – and I am looking forward to that.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Chickens<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seems Chickens are a very popular way to tell someone you
respect them and appreciate their friendship. Twice this week I have had to
explain that I really don’t want a live chicken, and I would rather they kill
it and cook it, and then share the meal with me. One woman said she understands
that I don’t know what to do with a live chicken, so she wants to give me a
sack of charcoal. Since I use a gas stove, I also had to turn down this generous gift. SO
I am hoping that I have not insulted anyone. I assume they think I am a strange
and weak American and give me some slack for my lack of chicken slaughtering skills.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Bountiful Blessings <o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So far I have received 25 packages and 28 hand written letters
since October. I doubt there is another person in the history of Peace Corps
who has received more in just 3.5 months at site. I am actually now embarrassed
to bring home another package from the post office. The cost of mailing me one package is equal
to the monthly salaries of our 3 farm attendants combined. This doesn’t even count
the value of the contents inside. So while I am enjoying tuna, dried fruit,
M&Ms, short bread cookies, Crystal Light, iced tea, Almond Roca, etc; my
co-workers are eating posho (a white starchy concoction) and beans and drinking
water. I burn all the packages and wrappers to hide the evidence. To be fair, I
do share some of my gifts – the candies, cookies, drink mixes, etc. but I am
still slightly bothered by my immense food supply. My wealth overwhelms me at
times!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The message to you is please don’t send me anything else….unless
I beg <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> I
have more than enough to last a year or two. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The message to me is I am the most blessed and supported
Peace Corps volunteer in the history of the organization. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Acholi I say –
Apwoyo Matek! (Thank you very much!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-33369351295555559022012-01-01T23:59:00.001+03:002012-03-06T13:28:24.736+03:00Sister Love, New Year Poems, Webmaster (NOT!)Happy New Year - I am having a great holiday season and wish you one as well!<br />
My big Sis Gretchen - an international ballet star - turned 50 on 12-27-2011 - so you will get her poems first.<br />
<br />
I have been prolific today - So grab a Coffee - or Tea! Send back your radiant love, and I will catch it off the breeze!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7tHtgfEySw/TwDF-yIAzZI/AAAAAAAAAKI/24eR-JDoqqY/s1600/124844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7tHtgfEySw/TwDF-yIAzZI/AAAAAAAAAKI/24eR-JDoqqY/s200/124844.JPG" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gretchen, Karla, Grace, Kirby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><b>My Sister</b><o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joy & Power entwined with love envelop you when she
enters<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her energy & fitness are palpable<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She is the dancer….and the music<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is no separation<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her heart, spirit & body are always on center stage<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She is busy creating, designing, choreographing <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All the while she is able to encourage, laugh and shine her
light </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
on all who are blessed to know her<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She is my sister, Gretchen!<u><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MfIQ7Xz8ezs/TwDFo-vHDFI/AAAAAAAAAKA/GK-SaAuIdlc/s1600/Gretchen+Kirby+Karla+Burdette+Street.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MfIQ7Xz8ezs/TwDFo-vHDFI/AAAAAAAAAKA/GK-SaAuIdlc/s200/Gretchen+Kirby+Karla+Burdette+Street.JPG" width="186" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gretchen, Kirby, Karla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NS9qccUxvoQ/TwDGAwJUz4I/AAAAAAAAAKQ/bnM41Zd8SkM/s1600/125243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NS9qccUxvoQ/TwDGAwJUz4I/AAAAAAAAAKQ/bnM41Zd8SkM/s200/125243.JPG" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karla, Gretchen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oz01tGaSDNQ/TwDGcskt7QI/AAAAAAAAAKY/bfWC1GBWkz8/s1600/125137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oz01tGaSDNQ/TwDGcskt7QI/AAAAAAAAAKY/bfWC1GBWkz8/s320/125137.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karla top left; Gretchen, Our Dancer, seated right of teacher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><b>Our Dancer, Gretchen</b><o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A joyful enthusiastic participant in all she does<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A fiery spirit that pierces you with intensity<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A protective & gentle mother, lover, wife<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A spitfire of movement and grace<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A generous heart that shares all <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A positive sister & friend<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A teacher of dance & life<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A rich complex soul<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our Dancer, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gretchen!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>1-1-2012</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
New Day-New Year- New Decade …..for me<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2012 brings my 5<sup>th</sup> decade – quite a Surprise to
me<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I say it out loud; in my mosquito net, to myself<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So what is this year to bring? What does it herald? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
None of us ever knows –So, I am resolved to be joyful and
open<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not to fear or fret – it has taken me 50 years to learn this
lesson<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What comes, will come; regardless of my concerns and worries<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I have sent my worries a’ packing!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I live in the present – for today <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Placing my future in my faith in God, in the universe, in
the goodness of my fellow time travelers<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wish peace, happiness, and freedom from suffering to all
earths creatures this Year<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What a gift to have the perspective from a different
continent<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The light is clearer from here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Dolly</u></b> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The New Year is here – I shared it with Dolly Parton. Africa
never ceases to surprise me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sitting alone – waiting for New Year’s eve to pass<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
as I am alone, frequently, with myself, my best friend.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dolly began singing on a nearby breeze. REALLY – wafting
across the fields to me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dolly – from Nashville – Tennessee – USA from 20 years ago –
was singing in Uganda<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And no one felt the magnitude of it but me<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It made my eyes well up with longing for home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I knew all the words.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She will always love me – in her coat of many colors – from
nine to five!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
REALLY an entire Dolly Album brought me home for almost an
hour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So after all it is a happy New Year for me!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>African Safari </u></b> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am on an African Safari – for 27 months – it will change
me forever<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I pray, for the better – but there are no guarantees<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Safari means Journey – for me, a walk about – a vision quest
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A chance to connect, To Myself – To Others – To the Universe</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel it working – I think<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I try to think less and feel more</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel like an observer<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here, but disconnected<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Awaiting the outcome<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unknown<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No hints, no cheat sheets<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I might as well enjoy the ride <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
and wait for the results with everyone else<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Tree Hugger </u></b> (Shout out to my Bro Bar-B-Q on this one!) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So be it – you are a tree hugger<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yep – you love trees<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You feel them – Alive, Breathing, Strong, Peaceful<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They stand their ground<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They watch over you …and all who pass<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And you are so grateful for their unbending love<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You are in awe of their steadfast presence<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Their commitment to their place<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Their slow and steady personal growth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As Protector and Guardian <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They provide shelter, shade, safety ...to so many<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You relish their diversity – rough, smooth, tall, dwarf,
bushy, spear-shaped<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Large leafed, needle leafed, fragrant, sticky – all
magnificent<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course you cannot help <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But hug trees<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
----------------</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
...With Optimism for the coming year - Karla</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-52900483503485080392011-12-18T08:34:00.000+03:002011-12-18T08:34:08.159+03:00Birthday Blog, White Christmas, Circumcision(?)<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Birthday Blog<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today I am 49 – Funny, since in my head, I still feel
30-ish. I think my <u>mind</u> stopped
aging once I hit my 30s. It can’t deny I am an adult, married, and have 2 great
sons, but it seems very talented at forgetting I have aged beyond those
milestones! (Unfortunately the mirror seems to know exactly how old I am!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVhfvb9eOpD4_Ro_cVozrAz0iC255BsTnJE3-Kc_egya5pc626V9XEsIDmz2aUxcSRPrPM6hbcczet06XlNlXUveN8qO0sC8uUoL9SDq4Izp2ugbRcxwa-ZRxAOGzBROce9LaN3dPH9I/s1600/Picture+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVhfvb9eOpD4_Ro_cVozrAz0iC255BsTnJE3-Kc_egya5pc626V9XEsIDmz2aUxcSRPrPM6hbcczet06XlNlXUveN8qO0sC8uUoL9SDq4Izp2ugbRcxwa-ZRxAOGzBROce9LaN3dPH9I/s320/Picture+018.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite pics of Me!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A wonderful part of life is that you can never predict where
it will take you. Four years ago I was celebrating my “half-way to 90” birthday
with my beautiful, fit, and inspiring friend Karen. I could not have guessed in
4 years, I would be typing with the aid of a solar lamp, in my house in Uganda
while serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer.
The nice thing is that, somehow, I am feeling very happy and up beat with
my present situation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For my Birthday I have received lots of well wishes from
near and far – thanks primarily to Facebook. Closer to home, my supervisor
& duplex-mate, gave me a lovely new purse and a wooden plaque for my home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWAcQFg6MbRkf3ISLQfroKwgBSQmKXTjAuEfUL9PVod2eYAu1z1giBQoKaQLcbRgakyzkCr4ET08LvhcpB3Kr2nZ2gNd4bxGwxGIep3BsgB0DP09uolK4A_sND5KZGkovR_n4NuvL5lw/s1600/100_7026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWAcQFg6MbRkf3ISLQfroKwgBSQmKXTjAuEfUL9PVod2eYAu1z1giBQoKaQLcbRgakyzkCr4ET08LvhcpB3Kr2nZ2gNd4bxGwxGIep3BsgB0DP09uolK4A_sND5KZGkovR_n4NuvL5lw/s320/100_7026.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lovely sentiment !</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHXi5lRbfltTo0BDqXbpv8hk1YyCSJY1U4mIEzAn3oUY8lZYzgLTulufdOWLUDEVFj5Wfd65apeSek2szZkpKDLOmXvFh-B284zXOCky747nfn1zbP-yJ5wkvKa4t2OepptLyjsj7oDo/s1600/100_7030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHXi5lRbfltTo0BDqXbpv8hk1YyCSJY1U4mIEzAn3oUY8lZYzgLTulufdOWLUDEVFj5Wfd65apeSek2szZkpKDLOmXvFh-B284zXOCky747nfn1zbP-yJ5wkvKa4t2OepptLyjsj7oDo/s320/100_7030.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new fashion upgrade!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I am truly feeling the love that surrounds me. A special
shout out to Lynn & Gretchen for the nice emails; and Lisa for sending me
two separate birthday cards via snail mail – she sent them before thanksgiving
to insure they would arrive in time. Obviously she is very organized! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday I spent 5 hours working in the “garden” (Think
fields!). Most of you know this makes me
very happy – then I bagged up 4 kilos of rice to give as Christmas presents to
my local buddies here in Koro. I handmade some cards and decorated the plastic
bags with “fall leaves” motif Kleenex that some nice person sent in a care
package a month ago! One must improvise
in Uganda!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Bathing </u> </b> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am growing fond of my outdoor bathing opportunities – I
have experienced sunrise bathing, sunset bathing, midday full sun bathing and
of course night bathing under the moon. Only thing left is rain bathing and I don’t
think that sounds appealing enough to me yet. But who knows?!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Poem in Honor of my Outdoor Bathing Room – written December
9, 2011 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bathing<br />
…outside on a Friday night,<br />
….in the soft gentle twilight,<br />
….in the light of the full moon, <br />
….next to fields of papaya and cabbages,<br />
….under peeping starry skies<br />
….beneath the racing wispy clouds<br />
….while listening to distant African music<br />
….and enjoying far away laughter<br />
…. Smiling that I am here,<br />
Bathing<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>A White Christmas
on the Bus<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last week I went to Kampala for a Peace Corps Volunteer
Advisory Committee Meeting – I am one of 3 reps from my “class”. We are tasked
with taking praise and complaints from our classmates to the Peace Corps Staff
every 3-4 months. Since we are the freshmen class we basically just attend and
share our info while the Junior and senior class reps lead us newbies. However
the main point of this section of the blog is to talk about the bus ride I took
from Gulu to Kampala.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Public transportation in Uganda is sweaty, crowded, exhausting,
and constantly surreal. People transport live chickens, milk, bananas, multiple
babies in one seat with mom, and a variety of bus food for the journey. Music or talk radio is played the entire 6-hour
ride, all at the discretion of the driver. Once I watched American music videos
from the 1980s play over and over again. I now know that Michael Bolton is
revered in Uganda…again who knew? As is
Celine Dion, Phil Collins and other soft rock giants of 3 decades ago. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, this bus ride was on December 11 – and it’s
Christmas time in Uganda. (Ugandans are VERY religious. All meetings open and
close with prayer, Really….no law against that here. ) So our driver popped in
a 1 hour CD of American Christmas tunes.
Imagine barreling down Kampala highway – only white person on the bus - listening
to White Christmas (it is Sunny & 85 degrees), Hark the Herald Angels Sing,
and even Felice Navidad! I have to admit I sang the last one out loud, softly
to myself. It was just too funny a situation to remain stoic. I was in the
middle seat between 2 Ugandan men – one sleeping and the other talking to a guy
in the seat across the aisle. This CD repeated 5 more times over the course of
our journey. Now, again, I reiterate – surreal. (Refer back to my earlier blog poem
on being in a movie/ documentary/ comedy.) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>December 16<sup>th</sup>
was Circumcision Day in Koro<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Friday there was a big celebration occurring across the
street with loud music, and a public address system. I asked my counterpart if
this was a Christmas celebration and she said no – there is a big effort to
educate the village about the public health benefits of circumcision and they
were having a major celebration while performing them at a reduced rate. We
were in the staff room for lunch and this led to a discussion on the pros and
cons of getting circumcised. (Refer back to my poem on being in a movie/
documentary/ comedy.) One man vehemently said he was not getting circumcised.
His wife was familiar with what he had and she did not want something new to
work with. Also he stated that God made him that way, and that way he will
stay! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Update on the Home<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My Home is coming along. After 2 months of having no
furniture in my sitting room. I now have
a twin sized bed for guests and am expecting a couch/sofa on Monday. Now I will
be able to read my kindle in multiple locations and am feeling quite wealthy
with my new amenities! Once the furniture is in place my Ugandan Wall Hangings
can be hung up and I will be living in high cotton! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Work in Progress<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My work is moving along well these days. I have designed a
brochure including taking photos of the students & school facilities; I am
working with the accountant on next year’s budget; I helped them email the
brochure and a new course announcement letter to several hundred NGOs
(Non-Government Organizations) to solicit student sponsorship monies, and I am
researching potential grants. The school needs to develop other income
generating activities because the tuition they charge is approximately 50% of
the costs they incur. The challenge is that most don’t seem to worry about this
profit & Loss / cash flow challenge. I think this is partially a result of
having Aid for the majority of the schools existence. However with the war
ending over 5 years ago and the world economy struggling, I don’t think Aid
will be available in the same amounts as they have seen in the past. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PLEASE NOTE - I am not interested in getting any monies from
my friends, family, or blog stalkers. At this point, I don’t want to be seen as
the woman who came with money. I have
explained that I am here as an advisor and to transfer skills and build their
capacities. Peace Corps Volunteers don’t bring money – money only lengthens
dependency. However, if the right
opportunity arises I will send out a call for your support. Remember I am here
until Oct 2013.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
****************************************</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Joyful Divali, Cheerful
Kwanza, etc etc<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
- whatever works for you I send you my love
and support! PEACE - Karla<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-46931236580897406212011-12-03T17:52:00.001+03:002011-12-03T18:13:55.557+03:00“There is no Electricity here – Life is HARD in Uganda”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
December 3, 2011<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>“There is no
Electricity here – Life is HARD in Uganda”<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m Back – Sorry but life here in Africa is non-stop work –
as my counterpart said the other day as we sat in our office waiting for
electricity to come…which it never did – “There is no Electricity here – Life is
HARD in Uganda”. And it is. I cannot adequately convey the challenges people
face just to complete the basic tasks of daily life. Nothing can be counted
upon, and people have little control over their lives. Water may not be
available for days; electricity may or may not come on during any given day –
imagine trying to run a business without being able to count on the basics of
electricity and water. Then throw in Disease- malaria, AIDS, along with gender inequality and mal nutrition and you will agree - Life is hard here!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last week our site was out of electricity due to a late
electric bill – so even when the power was sporadically available – our school
was not able to get on the grid – In addition, salaries here have not been paid
since mid-October, and in a staff meeting yesterday the Director said she does
not see any hope for funds to pay Nov, Dec and most likely Jan salaries. From
what I know of their cash flow projections, I can’t see how they will meet Feb
salaries…but this is too far in advance for them to think about now. Needless to say this adds to the difficulty of
the already challenging life of our staff. I feel guilty for receiving my Peace
Corps Stipend as they all struggle to feed their families.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Millions Fetching Water – My Observations<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are millions of people fetching water from down the
road, up the hill, across the fields.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Their day begins with outdoor latrines or the bush, then
bathing outside with cold water – if there is enough water for bathing. They
wash dishes, clothes, themselves – all outside in plastic basins, using the
same bar of soap.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They eat one or two staple foods - daily, weekly, monthly,
yearly, …for a lifetime…mostly a bland starch with beans. A tomato or carrot is
a celebration, a feast to mark a birth or the beginning of the dry season.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bugs are part of their everyday life – inside, outside,
everywhere. They barely notice them unless they are poisonous.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They can’t read, write, drive, or go to a bank. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Disease is everywhere, mal nutrition a given, death part of
every week. They have lost parents, children and siblings to disease or war or
both. Purchasing a coffin is a common activity. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Justice and fairness are not concepts to reflect on. They
know that these notions have no meaning where they live.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They don’t hurry or fret. They are powerless to affect the
majority of their lives. If you aren’t born to wealth or privilege it is
impossible to attain. Things are as they are, life is what it is. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Waiting is part of life – life is lived in the waiting
periods. Laughing, storytelling, gossip, news is shared as people wait for the
line to move, the electricity to come, the rains to fall, the sun to rise and
set.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Thanksgiving in
GULU with PCV’s<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Given the observations above, I am truly grateful for all the blessings large and small in my life. So turn on your tap in the kitchen and praise God! ...oh and be thankful for a drain too! I wish I had one in my Ugandan house.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well, I finally had some real American R&R to help shed
some of the stress and drudgery of the above mentioned everyday challenges in
Uganda. We were given a 4-day weekend for Thanksgiving and being resourceful
talented PCVs we organized quite a fun weekend. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It began with my weekly bike ride to Gulu town.
Unfortunately it was drizzling as I left my school and shortly thereafter it
picked up strength. So I had to seek shelter in a Boda Stage (think covered motorcycle
taxi stand). It was actually a fun cultural experience as I chatted with one Ugandan
man who recognized me from our Open Day with the German Ambassador. I practiced
my pitiful Acholi language with the Boda Drivers (Motorcycle taxi drivers) and
they smiled at my broken 3-year old abilities, but appreciated my effort. Very
few foreigners make the effort to speak the language.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When the rain let up I forged ahead and arrived in Gulu with
Mud flying everywhere – from my bike tires, from the truck & car tires, …from
every direction all I could see was mud – much of it on me. Good thing I had a backpack with a
change of clothes. I went to the bank to withdraw my PC stipend for Dec and had
to wait 30 minutes for the machines to come back on. Then off I pedaled to another
PCV’s house to cook 3 packages of brownies – my contribution to the feast –
thanks to all my supporters in the USofA. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Baking is a challenge in Uganda – not many ovens – I have
not seen one yet – though I hear rich people have them in Kampala. SO I made
Stove Top Browning Scramble. Imagine brownie mix continuously scrambled in a skillet
until it turns somewhat solid. I scraped the brownie scramble into a pan and
then molded it into brownie bricks which could be cut into pieces. Yes – I felt
a great sense of Pride for my accomplishment. It took over 2.5 hours by the
way! There were people cooking all over Gulu that day. Iwas with a group
cooking a turkey on an outdoor stove with a huge pot placed over the turkey –
it turned out very well and I, like most of us, was very surprised!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We carted our items to an Ethiopian restaurant that lent us
their facilities for the day – not much biz on Thursday afternoon on
Thanksgiving in Uganda. I think there were 50-60 people there mostly PCVs but
also other Americans that needed a place to celebrate the American Holiday. It
was my first away from Family and I missed my parents, sibs, kids, husband and
friends very much but this was a good alternative!<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzNprPfdQQvZQv8r61fcKYe1BbnJvSNHDMALCkFjV8FyWpPog0IkK5tK9sSve2wsMSKDf0NV5G_K9J4TK_kO2EitVzV-0_MxiqdWZjm1TdIQwQ7vQTpMUwY59BwHK4bhWesR7pFxR2HA/s1600/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzNprPfdQQvZQv8r61fcKYe1BbnJvSNHDMALCkFjV8FyWpPog0IkK5tK9sSve2wsMSKDf0NV5G_K9J4TK_kO2EitVzV-0_MxiqdWZjm1TdIQwQ7vQTpMUwY59BwHK4bhWesR7pFxR2HA/s320/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+007.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beer Basting the Turkey! Sorry - No pics of my Brownie Bricks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Murchison Falls
Safari<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Friday 12 of us woke at 4am for a 3 hour ride to Murchison
Falls National Park to see Animals and ride a boat to the falls where the Nile
river gets compressed into a narrow gorge and then plummets down over a cliff to
continue its trek towards Egypt. Unfortunately one of our vehicles broke down
1.5 hours into the trip and we sat by the roadside for a couple hours waiting
for a replacement – so we missed the morning game drive and our best chance to
see lions. However the day turned out wonderfully and we all enjoyed seeing the
giraffes, water buffalo, wart hogs, Ugandan Kobs & Crested Cranes,
elephants, baboons, monkeys, crocodiles, hippos, and a gazillion birds! The boat
ride was relaxing and the falls a nice site – though nothing like Niagara. We
all wished we were staying the night a t the Paraa Safari Lodge – it was
luxurious with a pool overlooking the Nile and outdoor bar and lovely rooms and
dining facilities – nothing like my home in Koro!<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAh23W8jlKPHowwyKzwxOmSD3Dh7Y1jcUr9NrkzYfXzoPaUrbImF0p2EA6VWOf2F195bX8WW6c5ddr_-nQ3DokIMJY7fznh_48Af7RYuMy024z3J-PCh4v-F5OEHT91reSsyQiHCWhaQ/s1600/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAh23W8jlKPHowwyKzwxOmSD3Dh7Y1jcUr9NrkzYfXzoPaUrbImF0p2EA6VWOf2F195bX8WW6c5ddr_-nQ3DokIMJY7fznh_48Af7RYuMy024z3J-PCh4v-F5OEHT91reSsyQiHCWhaQ/s320/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+040.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On top of our safari vehicle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkBGsLH5qZNdVpoVnCu9mTRjykpWmf_rYqvVyi3Gc6RfM7j96RHdS08eJYTf9zGe3NpKGnIziWHRiyY_WgNKA9bCwjd3AKwGBv4nLqTx0XE_5ZA_nCL81hPKA7bOqQmCTDJwufKsiWLQ/s1600/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkBGsLH5qZNdVpoVnCu9mTRjykpWmf_rYqvVyi3Gc6RfM7j96RHdS08eJYTf9zGe3NpKGnIziWHRiyY_WgNKA9bCwjd3AKwGBv4nLqTx0XE_5ZA_nCL81hPKA7bOqQmCTDJwufKsiWLQ/s320/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+048.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Its Mister Baboon to you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGXcyT71L13HEuhLOknLPSk0JkWTOeFC5X24oJhq_-iC04Y3gFoIrFn4pn01sArdVYAij0lRkipvQ00G4v1Ogr1aBrDSbeMQ9v3aVY8pA760Orc19WKPN_clyayzY2-K2CZDzS29MFBFw/s1600/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGXcyT71L13HEuhLOknLPSk0JkWTOeFC5X24oJhq_-iC04Y3gFoIrFn4pn01sArdVYAij0lRkipvQ00G4v1Ogr1aBrDSbeMQ9v3aVY8pA760Orc19WKPN_clyayzY2-K2CZDzS29MFBFw/s320/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+060.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elephants were all around us near the Nile River</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3A5oG1T_iyQ4nE1wsxb3-xP3n2ACVxV3sCJj2deJe1-lxxHMfOZ5t9lS1dv9CXTopp1sbZcEeCU8IS3RWGoINZzfPIik5hf5RBJjlMghqN_LminF4RIG6kDgvnIZEKLB7XMHjvRC05A/s1600/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3A5oG1T_iyQ4nE1wsxb3-xP3n2ACVxV3sCJj2deJe1-lxxHMfOZ5t9lS1dv9CXTopp1sbZcEeCU8IS3RWGoINZzfPIik5hf5RBJjlMghqN_LminF4RIG6kDgvnIZEKLB7XMHjvRC05A/s320/thnaksgiving+2011+PCV+085.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Murchison Falls in the background</td></tr>
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<b><u>Perma-gardening
Workshop<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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My site was selected to host the Northern Uganda Peace Corps training for Perma-gardening; which is organic gardening using locally available resources and materials to create long term sustainable family gardens that provide increased yields by planting complimentary plants together and utilizing varying plant heights to get the most out of smaller family plots. The purpose is to help improve nutrition and food security here in Uganda. So 37 people – a volunteer and their counterparts – came to Koro to learn the process over 2 days. We learned some in classroom settings and a whole lot in the fields doing the practical work. (KICKED MY BUTT!) As I love gardening, I really enjoyed it; and now I am caring for the 9 plots and the Keyhole garden constructed near my house over the 2 day workshop! </div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXh2NgJG-juOg6XFtzJYDqI0Bujqik0Anm_116RYB_kFLlMgMTDPJ-h4uUC2jxqWEqdXWJqAroqYNd_5YQGMXqunStYTYQp1w24MgCNOUlELEgR0emI7RF0eD-V60nseU6Qs7m_veiuIU/s1600/nov+2011+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXh2NgJG-juOg6XFtzJYDqI0Bujqik0Anm_116RYB_kFLlMgMTDPJ-h4uUC2jxqWEqdXWJqAroqYNd_5YQGMXqunStYTYQp1w24MgCNOUlELEgR0emI7RF0eD-V60nseU6Qs7m_veiuIU/s320/nov+2011+018.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 10px;">Making and animal barriers out of local materials</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hby4TY-bwLhiHhzVuesiNAQZOtSMig0_ohFYGZOqxXfs7n2-5rapU4K7t56Omq0DAWulL4Z8zWgDfsc_dWS5Wm8007kpdgEqnHxVTBLYGckZmFwG2GfDW62ik_RjTpLleH1Qbm14c54/s1600/nov+2011+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hby4TY-bwLhiHhzVuesiNAQZOtSMig0_ohFYGZOqxXfs7n2-5rapU4K7t56Omq0DAWulL4Z8zWgDfsc_dWS5Wm8007kpdgEqnHxVTBLYGckZmFwG2GfDW62ik_RjTpLleH1Qbm14c54/s320/nov+2011+021.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farmer Karla</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6QOI9Khf7L7DrW-vn5U4MDAwpfCddmmUbAnVON5TPPWFXUmGhbHmyw1_K0V5MJ7x_CwemjgQu6JCT1lVU0LQY8-LRL422u497SfPvSppj7ZuILpSTvWkNW7cOu_KtNbNCOGjQG5QpVc/s1600/nov+2011+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6QOI9Khf7L7DrW-vn5U4MDAwpfCddmmUbAnVON5TPPWFXUmGhbHmyw1_K0V5MJ7x_CwemjgQu6JCT1lVU0LQY8-LRL422u497SfPvSppj7ZuILpSTvWkNW7cOu_KtNbNCOGjQG5QpVc/s320/nov+2011+027.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my fellow co-workers digging beds</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib00AyWO7YnK3HBz6Go6S5Hc5M0jTtQHiIVypU3EewpZqCQbRO_cQ_K88dnW5CVfr7XsEV0bVSqpRzBqbUGm-xEuNXqWgDOroTx4ycmA0Hk74_preNV52SG8jvWk7CgdQD6R6dCc6MiFM/s1600/nov+2011+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib00AyWO7YnK3HBz6Go6S5Hc5M0jTtQHiIVypU3EewpZqCQbRO_cQ_K88dnW5CVfr7XsEV0bVSqpRzBqbUGm-xEuNXqWgDOroTx4ycmA0Hk74_preNV52SG8jvWk7CgdQD6R6dCc6MiFM/s320/nov+2011+030.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keyhole garden - cent3er for kitchen compost which leeches nutrients into beds </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I love and miss all of you guys - the important things get very real here! So - please treasure your family and friends; and harmony in your homes; as your heart will be with what you treasure!<br />
PEACE - Karla<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-64790173439254502812011-11-13T17:05:00.001+03:002012-03-06T13:29:09.385+03:00<br />
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<b><u>Big Sky+ Raging
Winds = Rainy Season ….and My night buddy, Kindle!<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Rainy Season it is! We had amazing amounts of rain the last
week – it rains on and off during the day and then in the late afternoon the
high winds and heavy rains descend –the sky darkens and the temperature drops
to the low 60s, and then it can rain all night. This coupled with lack of
electricity in the evening s often leads me to skip my evening outdoor bath – the
rain and the unheated water is too uninviting for me to care about my B.O. I just wash my face in a basin and then cover
myself with powder to mask the unpleasant aroma, and I plop right into my
mosquito net bed and jump headlong into my Kindle. Rainy Season comes twice a
year I am told. This one began in late September and runs through most of December – though I hear the dust is
more difficult to manage – I will let you know my preference after living
through both seasons here in Koro.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
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YES – this week I am bragging about my relationship with my
electronic buddy who delivers to me the most interesting and exciting
adventures – I must also thank my friends the solar lamps that charge all day
and then allow me some light at night. I read Kon Tiki this week along with the Four
Agreements (Thanks Chitoka!) I enjoyed them both but the challenges of the 6
men who crossed the Pacific on a raft kept me captivated. The book is like a
history lesson / anthropology detective story / adventure novel. Since it is a true story I found it that much more interesting.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Poisoning Attempt<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Well cooking this week was less successful. I actually got a
little depressed with some of my attempts to be creative. Seems they were a bit
too creative!!! While I was Thrashing the waist high grass
around my home…thrashing is manually cutting your grass with a machete like
instrument with its tip sharpened on both sides and the top third bent at a 90
degree angle so it cuts as you swing your arm….I saw this vegetable like bush.
I though it looked like a veggie had
seem in the market and later asked my supervisor if it was edible. She said yes
– its Otula. So that night I picked three little buggers from the bush and
minced them up nicely in my Mexican/taco seasoned beans along with the usual
suspects of onions, bell peppers, and okra. Well The new little veggies didn’t taste
so great, but I figured they were good for me and just ate a full plate of
beans over rice like a good little Peace Corps Volunteer. The
next day my system was slightly out of sorts but I didn’t think much of it as
this can occur every few days here. However at work I mentioned to my
counterpart that I didn’t like the Otula and she asked where I got it. When I showed
her the bush, she said it was a poisonous plant that all parents warn their
children about from a young age! She was
surprised I wasn’t sicker. Later at lunch she told the entire staff about my
mistake and everyone was incredulous that I was feeling OK. I must not have
eaten enough – or perhaps the Taco Seasoning was an antidote! <o:p></o:p></div>
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I was somewhat successful in roasting my first batch of
Groundnuts. Groundnuts are actually peanuts. They are the small red ones you
sometimes see in the states – not the large ball park peanuts we get at the Titans
games. I walked to our local market which is pretty weak in its offerings and
saw that a lady was selling raw groundnuts – so I bought a kilo for about 35
cents and took them home and roasted them over my gas flame and then sprinkled
them with salted water – the water evaporated and the nuts were covered in a
white salty film. I felt very proud of my little nuts!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Latrine Lizards<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Well I have never had a phobia about reptiles, and kind of like
lizards, as I grew up with the bright green ones in NOLA. So when I noticed a couple of them moving into
my latrine, I thought they are my allies in killing mosquitos and spiders and
their buggy cohorts, so I was not worried. However one night I ventured out
around 9pm in the pitch black, misty, rainy night carrying my solar lamp and
was greeted by 4 lizards in various locations around me in the 3x3 latrine. I
decided not to panic as I talked my way down because I knew they were my
allies. However, mid-stream the largest one perched above my head decided to
leap to the ground next to my foot, and I must admit this scared the piss out
of me! <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span>
There was nothing I could do – as I was in mid-stream and unable to change the
direction of the process, so I just breathed in and out while he scurried under
the door into the night. So we are still
friends but I am less excited about sharing my latrine with them now that I
know they can jump like that!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>The Road to the
Cuk Madit<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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The Cuk Madit (Choook Madeeet) is the large main market in
Gulu (It literally means big market). The
road to Gulu is like a never ending trail of people migrating to and from the
market to buy and or sell items, while busses, freight containers on 18
wheelers and every other type of motorized and non-motorized vehicle shares the
road. Well my bicycle and I are part of
this scene and yesterday I headed into town for my weekly shopping trip. It was
a great ride as I left at 8am and enjoyed cool sunny skies the entire way there. I yell out a greeting to all those I pass which
are about every 15 pedals and most people smile and greet me back. We all speak
a mixture of bad English and Acholi but the mood is cheery and it makes me feel
I am part of the local scene.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Uefang_cGh_fkx7cXflb4i_ShmkC-swqdgdy2jcvykgA17VqhXaLi5YNrNpYnAzw0jDBeT-GohXvGxJsw4cG_UtaWQ9DmtxXqFAGhpZztx5L_1ePOr1io2zxAHfnd5BvwazGoNAKMrc/s1600/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Uefang_cGh_fkx7cXflb4i_ShmkC-swqdgdy2jcvykgA17VqhXaLi5YNrNpYnAzw0jDBeT-GohXvGxJsw4cG_UtaWQ9DmtxXqFAGhpZztx5L_1ePOr1io2zxAHfnd5BvwazGoNAKMrc/s320/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Bike - lettering says "Egg's House" no idea <br />
what this means, but Brand is normal to Ugandans</td></tr>
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<o:p></o:p>On arrival I biked to my friend’s home in town and we headed
out to shop. It was very productive as I bought some plastic stackable shelving
for my kitchen as well as a grater for my ginger root. (I am enjoying drinking fresh
ginger in hot water late at night.) Well the Cuk Madit is large - maybe a half
mile deep and wide with sections selling various items. It is a veritable
Ugandan experience! There is the egg section, beef section, banana section,
pepper & onions section, used clothing section, etc. There are also little
Dukas (doookas) / Shops selling plastic ware and other household items like
brooms etc. So I loaded up on my usual
list of fresh items. The challenge is always packing my bike for the ride home.
I really do look ridiculous – but I think it endears me to the locals who carry
much greater loads on their heads and backs on a daily basis. I arrived home today by 9am and have washed my
clothes and cleaned my kitchen and set up my new shelves with all my newly
acquired vegetable treasures.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_fYq1RwcBl1l1XqlHYYzaALAlwIZvQSR7LO4iM-efVhlyhw2RxZ0WO8O_3I-el-158ymcY6kGs7wupmHcLkoKAzQPV9bh3ZQUctQtEBe0SE1fzh3y40BSPMxXNcpVVCnfltCZGrV8JU/s1600/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_fYq1RwcBl1l1XqlHYYzaALAlwIZvQSR7LO4iM-efVhlyhw2RxZ0WO8O_3I-el-158ymcY6kGs7wupmHcLkoKAzQPV9bh3ZQUctQtEBe0SE1fzh3y40BSPMxXNcpVVCnfltCZGrV8JU/s320/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My purchases-powdered milk, eggs, plastic shelves, veggies <br />
galore, TP, Napkins, sugar, bread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPPHaiGV3g6j0NpUMv8Ds0NL_MAmRLmft2TQre3BvBAoa-JXA7naBIF9LpxfW9m-xGddKl2j3FHUKxHzYhiUNuzomThyphenhyphenTG0838yP5-RwIqfGPwN09t2vUO81WaWp_LVFsKQIMTMD7KB4w/s1600/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPPHaiGV3g6j0NpUMv8Ds0NL_MAmRLmft2TQre3BvBAoa-JXA7naBIF9LpxfW9m-xGddKl2j3FHUKxHzYhiUNuzomThyphenhyphenTG0838yP5-RwIqfGPwN09t2vUO81WaWp_LVFsKQIMTMD7KB4w/s200/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+006.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green avocado picked from tree at my friend's home</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHmREPnJe3ZD4krnQnSKgOjQsE87PmXti_EAU4EejwHKUxxo_sTFXdD0FbOgV0R2HtTAWxXIFzYp7M-P-isMe5j8oOrb_acTYB85szqpfIcNHVaGzU0yLuS8sTit9anNp-135iDAVQ-s/s1600/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHmREPnJe3ZD4krnQnSKgOjQsE87PmXti_EAU4EejwHKUxxo_sTFXdD0FbOgV0R2HtTAWxXIFzYp7M-P-isMe5j8oOrb_acTYB85szqpfIcNHVaGzU0yLuS8sTit9anNp-135iDAVQ-s/s320/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+012.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new plastic shelves with veggies etc<br />
under calendar of favorite photos from home!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uzayW_MzGKIKxkm7dkOdLF3TqMZRrZwC8cMW226nxRSE-6g4Nf8DFbtvhDiJjyDiqMDwJc6X2x0nV_xnF7nIyTxznNtDhZlU_sr-dqTBtwkuvS67ti16UsIzrerDczUpnzKC4IOZoEo/s1600/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uzayW_MzGKIKxkm7dkOdLF3TqMZRrZwC8cMW226nxRSE-6g4Nf8DFbtvhDiJjyDiqMDwJc6X2x0nV_xnF7nIyTxznNtDhZlU_sr-dqTBtwkuvS67ti16UsIzrerDczUpnzKC4IOZoEo/s320/My+food+purchases+and+home+11-2011+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cooking stove and dish washing station - I wash in the <br />
basin and pour dirty water into the bucket on the far right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>My Job<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The School is in National testing mode this week as our students
undergo their exams on the various vocations they are studying. Out term will
end in late Nov and then things should quiet down a little until next term
starts in February 2012. I am still working on the Agriculture Business Plan
and enjoying the research of pricing and costs related to these endeavors here
in Uganda. I hope when the financials are run it will actually be a profitable
business plan! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kisses from Uganda to all my friends, relatives and
supporters! Karla<o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-81081917759270801892011-11-06T17:23:00.001+03:002012-03-06T13:37:10.662+03:00Open Day, Food Successes, Spa Day Poem<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
November 6<sup>th</sup> 2011<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First of all – Congrats to my husband on completing the
Marine Corps Marathon in 3 hours 58 min! …..woo – hoo that’s an accomplishment!------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoAZQble2IG1tWIRObMGfKHG0PT5LoHDrt54fypIixkSEZ-MA_02DqJmfWzjEN1mNkgzOUBAs1Fap_kqTPGwo2l3WUc5Im2cgt6X_2CLBnHLgQfMsRJSkJcgVheMxsjfW3ako1F6IZ1U/s1600/100_6779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoAZQble2IG1tWIRObMGfKHG0PT5LoHDrt54fypIixkSEZ-MA_02DqJmfWzjEN1mNkgzOUBAs1Fap_kqTPGwo2l3WUc5Im2cgt6X_2CLBnHLgQfMsRJSkJcgVheMxsjfW3ako1F6IZ1U/s200/100_6779.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">School Sign and some Staff</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 Weeks at my Vocational School and each
day gets a little more comfortable as I figure out how to live here in rural
Africa. It’s definitely a world away from anything I have known in the past. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>OPEN DAY<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My work is 8-5; 5-days a week – which I hear is different
than most of my Peace Corps classmates. I share an office with our accountant
and primarily have been preparing for the Open Day event that occurred
yesterday with a visit by the German Ambassador to Uganda to officially open
our new drip irrigation field – funded in large part by the German People. We
are a vocational school that has carpentry, tailoring, brick and block laying,
metal working, motor vehicle repair and agriculture. The school’s greatest
challenge is that it cannot sustain itself on its tuition fees. It is hoped the
drip irrigation will serve as both a demonstration/training facility for the
region as well as generate income for crops grown – especially during the dry
season. My next assignment is to write a business plan with the 2 agriculture
staff to get that project jump started. I am also looking for other income
generators to help incrementally add cash to the school. I definitely have my
work cut out for me – so say a prayer to send me good ideas. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The event yesterday had approximately 300 invited guests and
catered lunch – including about 150 people from our school as well as local
dignitaries and agricultural educators. We also had a brass marching band, a local
primary school perform a traditional local dance, a drama by our students and
we finished the day with a football (soccer) match. Unfortunately we lost. But
the day was a success!! We also had at least an equal amount of community
members – mostly children – come and watch the entire event. There is little
entertainment in Uganda so any event draws a crowd of onlookers. My biggest contribution was a newsletter I
produced after interviewing several successful graduates of the school. It was
a fun assignment as I traveled to their respective workshops and places of
business to learn about their trade and their business successes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_yw7B8mfoNH-DITPzG3RL_ng_w2RPpyjTqvF2mZyslW2PWMSfqJGZrkj3BOQqwHPSfHQYMuFfNSK8r_PRhFqvQ-0qcRC9imJtpl558F5WSgyVsh_P3QAVcodwMZp0uAwd3zEsDn_i4Q/s1600/100_6787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_yw7B8mfoNH-DITPzG3RL_ng_w2RPpyjTqvF2mZyslW2PWMSfqJGZrkj3BOQqwHPSfHQYMuFfNSK8r_PRhFqvQ-0qcRC9imJtpl558F5WSgyVsh_P3QAVcodwMZp0uAwd3zEsDn_i4Q/s200/100_6787.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marching Band</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoqni5HbfVVg08Sfde3GAGWIRD6TjFHuG6l8A35O1PuaeXOKohqOYQ4RrhBy_RPFT1dalqrbeVopghC34t5ic5fhiYSphzgtGsRyv9XSZdpwkCnKitfCg73qBPNRM7PWHcCB68dM5upY/s1600/100_6815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoqni5HbfVVg08Sfde3GAGWIRD6TjFHuG6l8A35O1PuaeXOKohqOYQ4RrhBy_RPFT1dalqrbeVopghC34t5ic5fhiYSphzgtGsRyv9XSZdpwkCnKitfCg73qBPNRM7PWHcCB68dM5upY/s200/100_6815.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Director, German Ambassador, RDC, Bishop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-Us5AzhaVq-fwSfueA-gg1RAA958x4EapWmYVOZWslYUxUTGDCPmU2XowIHm_vzc8Skr6gEX0UF5XH9XrbayhwjSoaHFt4RwcnVR0e6rLoeqOLtXwQXvx4DquQFygjBxLW9UM2K-47w/s1600/100_6846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-Us5AzhaVq-fwSfueA-gg1RAA958x4EapWmYVOZWslYUxUTGDCPmU2XowIHm_vzc8Skr6gEX0UF5XH9XrbayhwjSoaHFt4RwcnVR0e6rLoeqOLtXwQXvx4DquQFygjBxLW9UM2K-47w/s200/100_6846.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Primary School Dancers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For Uganda, this place is run fairly tightly. I must sign in
and out daily and if I ever arrive late, I will have to sign in the “dreaded
late book”. So far I don’t know the consequences of this book, but it is feared
by my co-workers. My other PC classmates frequently arrive at their workplaces
around 8:30 or 9 and may be the only ones there. I hear one friend’s office
reads the papers for the first 3 hours of each day. My place on the other hand
also works all day Saturday – which I explained right off the bat – that I will
not be working on! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>FOOD<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I use Saturday to ride into Gulu Town to purchase food
stuffs for my livelihood. The only food items I have located in my village are
cabbage, bell peppers, onions, eggplant and okra. Luckily my upbringing in NOLA
has prepared me to love these veggies and know how to cook them. However for variety, I peddle 35-40 minutes
on a straight and hilly road to purchase things like eggs, flour, tea, coffee,
powdered milk, soap, detergent, fresh ginger, avocado, banana, pasta, rice,
beans, potatoes and CHOCOLATE! As Uganda was formerly occupied by the British,
we have Cadbury Chocolate here! So far, my favorite it the Mint Chocolate
bar! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you may recall I have no running water, no drain, no
fridge and no oven. My kitchen contains a 2-burner LP gas cooking stove with
propane tank, and <b><u>my new best friend
– the electric tea kettle</u></b>. I use it several times a day when we have
electricity - to boil water. I do this for all water I drink as well as for
heating water for my bucket bath outside in my bathing room. (This is a 3 foot
x 3 foot cement & brick structure with no roof.) It sits next to my pit
latrine (Same size but with a roof and a small hole in the floor). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My second best friend is my bottle of Heinz Ketchup,
purchased in Kampala, which is the thing that reminds me the most of home.
Heinz is an American food icon, and for me, also connects me US football, as it
brings memories of seeing the Steelers in Heinz Stadium. The night I made
French Fries – called chips here – and opened my bottle of ketchup, I was
reading the bottle and realized I had opened it on the exact date it expired –
October 28<sup>th</sup>, 2011. What are the chances of that!?? Of course I will
continue eating it until it really goes bad. Your standards drop a good bit
here as your options are severely limited. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Success stories in the food department so far, are the
baking of a poppy seed muffin mix my mother sent me, and the cooking of beef in
a sauce similar to one for grillades in NOLA. Baking is an improvised process
where I place a few small broken brick pieces in the bottom of a larger pot and
then sit a smaller pot inside it. The small pot has the sides greased and is
filled with the said muffin mix. I then cover both pots – with a frying pan –
and turn on the gas and heat this set-up until I smell the mixture baking.
Surprisingly it turned out pretty well. I also cooked beef I purchased in the
market yesterday. The carcass was hanging in the open air and had flies
enjoying it – I asked for ½ kilo for 5,000 Ugandan Shillings (About $2). I then
peddled this home and had to cook it immediately as we have no refrigeration.
Basically the rule of thumb is you can keep cooked food for 24 hours in a dark
cool place. However, you must reheat it before eating it again. So I had this
beef mixture over rice today for lunch, and will also have it for dinner
tonight. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I must admit that my diet is greatly improved by the
packages I have received from the US. Most every day I eat oatmeal and use
seasoning and soup mixes shipped here. I found that beans cooked in taco mix is
really quite tasty – give it a try at home – it’s a nice meal of Mexican beans.
I also drink my Starbucks Vias almost daily – my French press is great but the
hassle of cleaning coffee grinds with no sink or running water limits my
enthusiasm!!! The drink mixes also brighten up the boiled drinking water. So
again thanks to all my support group back in the USofA!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Uganda – Noise
pollution<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the biggest challenges here is the noise pollution.
Music is played at the ear splitting levels all day and night. I can handle the
daytime, but the night time sometimes goes until 7am the next day. I have
resorted to wearing earplugs on the nights when the bass beat it so loud I feel
the vibrations in my bed. I still wake up frequently but I get some sleep.
Therefore it is a blessing when the electricity is not working. So I often hope
for the power to go out just about my bedtime, so I sleep more soundly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Poem from last
weekend - Spa Day in Gulu Town</u> </b>Oct 30<sup>th</sup>, 2011<b><u><o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 ladies in a foreign land<br />
Peer expectantly into the box.<br />
A magical Box from 7,000 miles away,<br />
The thrill yet to be seen!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is my box,<br />
Sent with Love.<br />
Received with grateful awe<br />
& now shared with joy!<br />
Here it is impossible to keep<br />
The glittering prizes to myself!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One item at a time -<br />
We Oooooh, We Aaaaaah!<br />
We nod with approval.<br />
Yes – this was well thought out!<br />
Oh this is frivolous!<br />
This is practical! This is comforting!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then a green soothing packet<br />
Promises a moment of cool & clean <br />
in the midst of heat & dust.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The smooth crisp cucumber facial wipes- in a packet of 10<br />
are too luxurious to describe!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One lady says – “No, you cannot be that generous – to share;<br />
We can all use the same sheet and extend the miracle”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I am generous & frivolous<br />
I know that waiting for a better day<br />
To enjoy something is Folly!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The day is now! The moment is perfect!<br />
The cucumber facial wipes will never be a sweet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So with abandon I pass one to each of us!<br />
I am a magnanimous woman of wealth</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Giddy with the thrill!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We caress our faces, necks, arms, hands<br />
we are giggling & smiling<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Momentarily transported to our own Spa!<br />
A moment of gratitude for the breath of physical comfort</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We realize something has happened that will bind us<br />
Together forever.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
------<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyway – right now I am trying to get my bearings and get
comfortable with the new routines and faces in my life. I do feel I am on a
long personal journey to <i>God only knows
where</i> – but I think it will make a difference in my life going forward. It
is a real process to become your own best friend and confidant! When you remove
all your support structures, you find you must rely on yourself alone. This is
both daunting and exhilarating. So keep sending positive energy to me here in
Uganda. I do need this kind of support. Visualize me being successful here, and
I will continue to try to live up to your visions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love your friend and adventurer - Karla<o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-88973016135364777122011-10-27T18:37:00.002+03:002011-10-27T18:37:49.937+03:00Poetry week of Oct 24, 2011<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Resting </u></b>Oct 24<sup>th</sup>,
2011</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
Resting<br />
Because there is no light, nowhere to go, nothing else to do…<br />
Here in Africa….at night.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
The air seems thin…not hot or
cold.<br />
Just air resting on my skin<br />
…as I’m resting in the darkness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
I see my sons in their lives;<br />
in their rooms, in restaurants, libraries, clubs & parks.<br />
They are strong & bold,<br />
but still …my beautiful, vulnerable boys….nonetheless.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
I reflect on my life…<br />
an unfinished Journey<br />
confidence, joy, confusion, questions, sadness, love & redemption.<br />
I wonder why I am here …alone ….by choice …or are we always alone?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t understand why I had to do this <br />
…all I know is that I was driven here,<br />
by myself to find myself …I pray <br />
….often.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think of my heros …MLK, Mandela, Gandhi<br />
and I know my struggles are small.<br />
My pain is small. My impact on the earth is small.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, to me it all looms large.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So it’s one step, one breath, one good thought at a time,<br />
as I wait for the pieces to fall together,<br />
and, at last, I see the picture of this puzzle<br />
I pray<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Enshrined in Light </u>October 24, 2011</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So – I realized just now – outloud, <br />
what I have known for a very long time…innately…<br />
That I can breathe only because of my friends.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Friendship has kept my madness at bay.<br />
Who they are<span> </span>…each so unique &
precious,<br />
has carried me over rough waters,<br />
& through times of celebration.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One-on-one & in Tag Teams,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
my friends mourn, lift, inspire.<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am enshrined in a place that glows with their light.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Can I truly express the magnitude <br />
of the cumulative impact of their deeds, <br />
large & small?<br />
The answer, my friend is No!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Living in a Movie </u>Oct 24, 2011</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As soon as I landed,<br />
it seemed I was in a movie.<br />
….more like a documentary slash comedy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The scenery is like nothing I knew from home:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
loud, dirty, uncensored, raw, free.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The accents are odd <br />
& the English does not resemble the words I hear.<br />
…though they are speaking my language;<br />
…if it’s really mine to claim, …here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mostly I am traveling along as an observer.<br />
Pretending this is normal,<br />
…that I am not an actor,<br />
…in this drama slash documentary slash comedy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I realize I am a side show, a fleeting focal point,<br />
the odd white woman in a sea of various shades of darkness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But frequently I am lifted.<br />
when there is music<br />
reminding me this is Africa.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is no guise.<br />
No time for western concepts,<br />
…of sleek, smooth, polished lines.<br />
<br />
My movie slash dark comedy slash drama<br />
<span> </span>is powerful because the images are so
real,<br />
A panoramic landscape of jagged & rough outcroppings.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My fellow actors are naturals.<br />
Genuine natives with rich skin tones,<br />
Bright white smiles, hearty laughs & silent eyes.<br />
…and when the music plays the movie continues.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-68673664665437644742011-10-16T17:30:00.004+03:002012-03-06T13:25:11.926+03:00<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipMKn7Y5HQHuLiKvo0I5DWiScxNXJBP7uYefF6DM4stlUABmk80lfqfl92yLsr6Q4Kh4m0EYoXl4YACDm1nIGHQGpsEsi96Z00XvxtLmj5SJ-oH5klsMJRtC3Liy5nGleUeSCb2oj2-ZU/s1600/Karla+w+flags%253DPC+Oct+2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipMKn7Y5HQHuLiKvo0I5DWiScxNXJBP7uYefF6DM4stlUABmk80lfqfl92yLsr6Q4Kh4m0EYoXl4YACDm1nIGHQGpsEsi96Z00XvxtLmj5SJ-oH5klsMJRtC3Liy5nGleUeSCb2oj2-ZU/s320/Karla+w+flags%253DPC+Oct+2011.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karla the PCV at Swearing In Ceremony</td></tr>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
October 16, 2011 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yessirreee - I passed
my language exam! OK I am now settled where I will live for the next two years.
Wow what a long strange trip it’s been! …and this is only the beginning. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Swearing In<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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I am in my half of a 30 foot round brick & cement house
with 3 rooms, a kitchen, a sitting room and a bedroom. I arrived on Friday Oct
14<sup>th</sup> after being sworn in as a Peace Corps Volunteer on Thursday
October 13<sup>th</sup> at the home of the Deputy Ambassador to Uganda,
Virginia Blaser. She shared with us that she applied to the Peace Corps just
after college and was rejected for not having enough skills. So instead she
entered the Foreign Service and has spent her career serving there. Given her
opulent house in Uganda and then looking at mine, I think she has done very
well for herself despite the rejection from Peace Corps!! In preparation of Swearing In I shaved my legs and colored my hair for the first time since leaving the States as we were staying in a hotel with toilets and real showers! It was nice to see my legs looking like mine and not like my brothers legs!! (No offense Kirby, Bronson & Robert but I want to be more feminine than you guys!) <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deputy Ambassador Virginia Blaser</td></tr>
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Swearing in was very moving and I didn't expect it to be…but
in true Karla form, I cried several times. They read parts of JFK’s speech
creating the Peace Corps in 1961 and they talked about the friends, family and
careers we put on hold to come here. This really got to me because I feel so
much support across the ocean over here in Africa. I really do appreciate all
of you who are cheering for me and touching me across the world. Several of the young and inspiring PCVs
(Peace Corps Volunteers) gave speeches and I was glad to be in the present of a
younger and committed group. I think I
have gravitated towards these young adults here and in the US because they
remind me of my idealistic side that can get a little jaded over the course of
a lifetime.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Host Organization Supervisors-mine is the lady in blue</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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Well as you know I had an African Kitenge (traditional
dress) made with fabric from my host mom. She designed the outfit which has
trousers worn under a tunic. I wore this to swearing in and felt really good in
my ensemble. It really seemed to reflect my style. There were several of us who
wore traditional African attire and we enjoyed ourselves immensely. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRpfbLphTFFnPZY2u9cPJfgjTSzeMaizVYszcRIb65vQs9QcvqUXM4TbiBVa12C_4cQ1UeVhbyyIAjOk82y2skdyJnlhiU4CUXbiVAnPlmdgsaCdyG-s2XmGC8GfpRGpkd3hEsNRQDCA/s1600/Girls+in+Traditional+outfits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRpfbLphTFFnPZY2u9cPJfgjTSzeMaizVYszcRIb65vQs9QcvqUXM4TbiBVa12C_4cQ1UeVhbyyIAjOk82y2skdyJnlhiU4CUXbiVAnPlmdgsaCdyG-s2XmGC8GfpRGpkd3hEsNRQDCA/s320/Girls+in+Traditional+outfits.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and the other PCVs in African attire</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modeling - my next career?</td></tr>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Leaving Homestay
in Wakiso<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Leaving my host mom and brother was very hard for me. I think
they were the only reason Pre-Service Training didn’t beat me; there were time
I was just hanging on. Their home was my sanctuary – I am a little apprehensive
about making it on my own here in Gulu District. Hopefully my new home will
also deliver some wonderful people to support me in the process. I think my
supervisor and my counterpart have great potential. We really enjoyed the last
few days together. I learned how to cook pork like my host mom and I taught her
how to make spaghetti American style. We also killed and plucked a chicken
(actually I just watched) – I decided I won’t be able to do this on my own – so
I will buy chickens already prepped & cleaned when I get the courage to
cook meat. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I gave my host mom a gas cook stove as a thank you gift so
she won’t have to cook over charcoal. The gas stove is actually less expensive,
but many Ugandans can never save enough for the stove (approximately $42). She
fell on her knees and thanked Jesus when I presented her with it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzq4x3kyc2U2A4DtA8xnEqqFhXPj8BAkd4wyXWFReYou4u61M4wGjSZwrIUJH8nr6kUDmZhpqurgb7FQGCFt8BuTMqB6UjLef9JmvuxXLEVvErYm3M78JAmJ8IR8zAKMWQIdMY5k6hpQ8/s1600/PC+Oct+2011+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzq4x3kyc2U2A4DtA8xnEqqFhXPj8BAkd4wyXWFReYou4u61M4wGjSZwrIUJH8nr6kUDmZhpqurgb7FQGCFt8BuTMqB6UjLef9JmvuxXLEVvErYm3M78JAmJ8IR8zAKMWQIdMY5k6hpQ8/s320/PC+Oct+2011+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chicken after plucking and cleaning!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFKu42fNLnwMTqxes8PUuRF6GX2vQYVH7b2_qIUtH5Shf3QxshvfaOQxK7rVJahi99qungYJQ-K4cP0AR83Q4273fpQ8aL1wy97uoENhecU7NMLUdQmrtNpTFMmYnsGtRlzbtbthouhQ/s1600/PC+Oct+2011+Santos+fun.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFKu42fNLnwMTqxes8PUuRF6GX2vQYVH7b2_qIUtH5Shf3QxshvfaOQxK7rVJahi99qungYJQ-K4cP0AR83Q4273fpQ8aL1wy97uoENhecU7NMLUdQmrtNpTFMmYnsGtRlzbtbthouhQ/s320/PC+Oct+2011+Santos+fun.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My wonderful host brother!</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best was to come, when I told her I had found a school
sponsor for my 6 year old host brother. A wonderful and generous family in
Nashville has offered to sponsor his school fees for the next 3 years. The
total is approximately $75/ year with another $25/year for books, uniforms and
miscellaneous supplies. Because I have lived there, I know this family’s values
and the importance they place on education. Since my brother was born
“disabled”, he was given up by his mom at 3 months. My bother has now fully
recovered except for a stutter. This difference will cause him much trouble in
Africa where any abnormality is treated as a curse and often results in
ostracism. I know his education, which
he is working on very hard for a little 6 year old, is his chance at a better
life. This is one reason I am here – to make a small difference one person at a
time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Traveling to Site<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So because I had 10 large bags by now – having bought a
portable gas stove, pots, pans, a set of dishes, utensils, numerous food
stuffs, and African Crafts for gifts and for decorating my home; I chose not to commute to Northern Uganda on
Public Transport per Peace Corps recommendation. It would have involved several
vehicle changes and would have taken all day – where in the confusion and
stress I either would have lost some items or been robbed. This cost me and
another volunteer who was sharing the ride $116 each ($232 total). This is more
than most Ugandans make in a month. The Peace Corps supposedly only reimburses
us for the cost of public transport which is approximately $17 each even if we
bought two bus tickets each. I have a real bone to pick over this issue. Luckily
I had the means to access my US account and withdraw some of my resources.
After 10 weeks of physical and emotional boot camp where we were all at our
wits end, it feels like abuse to have to make that journey alone on public
transport which is notorious for pick pockets and baggage thieves. (Seems inconsistent with the Peace Corps
statement of placing our safety and security first.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So we left at 7am and arrived at my site at 1pm to drop my
bags. Then we went to drop my travel mate’s items off and headed out with our
driver to located mattresses and an LP gas canister to power my stove. I also
located a used mountain bike that I asked the shopkeeper to hold for me until
the next day. We also bought jerry cans to carry our water and some plastic
basins for washing clothes and dishes. Then we each were dropped at our sites.
Hers is in Gulu Town, and mine is 8 kilometers south in a more rural village
setting. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Village Savings
& Loans<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I arrived at School at exactly the
time the staff Village Savings & Loan (VSL) meeting was beginning – and my
supervisor ferried me in to watch the process. This is a system that we have
been trained on that is used in developing countries to help people save and
receive loans. Most people have no access to traditional banking systems, so
this new process has slowly gained traction here in Uganda. Many of us PCVs
will work at establishing these while at our sites. The concept is that even if
they cannot read or write, small groups of people can meet in public and each
put in whatever amount they have saved that week - all under the watchful eyes
of the members - and the totals are tallied in a ledger by a secretary that can
read. Several people must agree on the total amount per person and for the
group as a whole. Then from the monies that are collected, people can receive
loans that are due in 2-3 months. These loans can help with medical bills,
school fees for kids, or help them get pigs or bee hives etc. These VS&Ls
can really be the difference between raising ones standard of living and
falling further into poverty. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Saturday 10-15-2011
Home Set Up Day<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I forgot to mention it, but my supervisor is supposed to
have the other side of my circular structure as her home. Of course it’s not
ready yet, so she has been staying with me on my sitting room floor to make
sure I am comfortable and taken care of in my new surroundings. It might sound
awkward but it’s been nice, as I would otherwise have very few people to talk
to since arrival. So yesterday I got up and rode my counterparts bicycle to
Gulu Town. There are 3-4 big hills that are hard to climb and fun to coast down
between here and there. It took me just over 30 minutes going at it pretty
hard. I went immediately to the place where I had reserved my own bicycle and
had them affix a basket and a mud flap to my bike. It seems there is more mud here than all of
the rest of the world!! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I left my counterpart’s bike with the shopkeeper man since
she can take a Boda-Boda (AKA motorcycle taxi) to retrieve it. I am forbidden
to ride Boda-Bodas by Peace Corps which aside from a bicycle, is the only
public means of transport to my site. I then went to visit the Peace Corps
Volunteer in charge of the Gulu PO Box and she invited me in for tea…Very
civilized. She is a German born woman who married an American (shout out to Eva
& Jim!) and has lived stateside for many years. This is her second trip to
Uganda as a PCV. She is working in a teacher’s college. We then went for lunch
and I purchased some nails, a hammer, some produce and climbed on my bike with
6 packages and all the aforementioned items. Needless to say the trip back was
much harder. It was hot, I was carrying an extra 25-30 pounds and I was tired
from the morning ride in. My new bike was great but I was running out of steam
so I ended up walking the uphill parts. This was not unusual as 95% of Ugandans
walk their bike up hills. So I didn’t feel like a total loser. Upon my return
home I drank lots of water and began hanging my mosquito net and curtains. I
unpacked all my things and cleaned and set up house. I went to bed with my
supervisor in the next room and slept from 9:30pm until 7:45am – whew that felt
great!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Sunday Afternoon
10-16-2011 Relaxing in My Home<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here I am – catching up on my blog and thinking of all
those at home. I heard from my youngest
son just before Swearing In. He is doing well and seems to be enjoying his
freshman year. He just finished mid-term exams and spent his fall break in DC
with his brother. I hear from my husband
– whom I talk to almost daily – that my oldest son is also enjoying his junior
year and doing well socially and academically. I love & miss my sons so
very much and know they are becoming the great men they are destined to
be. My husband, who is still training
for the Marine Corps Marathon at the end of October despite a hip injury, is
skydiving this weekend with a friend from Louisville KY. Seems not much can
hold him back. I am proud of him and of how he is handling this challenge of
separation. He has an amazing internal core strength that assures me things
will be fine. When we talk via Skype I also get to see my dogs. Cayenne is looking
as beautiful as ever and I hear is enjoying running at the river campus. She
will be 2 in December and is feeling strong.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also think of my parents, sibs, in-laws and all my
girlfriends and their husbands who are so important to my mental health. The amazing
ladies of my life have sent me packages that were here when I arrived. They
have also gotten together and sent packages to my sons at college since I
cannot be there to do that myself. I cry
happy tears when I think of you all. I am even more thrilled that my friends
are planning Easter in New Orleans with my Family. This means so much to me
that all my special connections are carrying on as a big family - even when I
am not on the same continent. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s a wonderful feeling to finally unpack my things and
find the small surprises that awaited me in my luggage. I located my IPhone and
hooked it up to my speakers and am listening to music from America for the
first time in 3 months. It’s amazing what memories music can trigger. I have
also used my REI French press for the first time today – THANKS to Meg for that
parting gift!!! NOTHING like real coffee. Though the Starbucks Vias are much
easier to clean up after, given I have to haul water for all washing and
bathing. Speaking of living a different
life – my pit latrine and bathing area are still under construction. They
should be ready in a day or two, so I have been using the Girls dormitory
facilities. Good thing my house was
ready, along with my full size bed (waiting on you Hubby), and my wardrobe
(though the bed and wardrobe was still sticky from the varnish). I also received a kitchen table that won’t
fit through my kitchen door…a little Ugandan planning challenge! I am still waiting to receive my kitchen
cupboard, my peg boards for hanging things and my pit latrine chair!! Yes, I
asked the carpentry dept. to make me a chair that I can set over my latrine so
I can feel like an American when I am taking care of business!! Some things a
girl just can’t give up!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now that I am living on 20 acres in the rural Ugandan
country side I am receiving fresh milk each day from the cows located at the
school. A half liter a day is approximately 18 cents! So I will have some in my
coffee in the am and a cup of hot chocolate in the evening. The men arrived this
afternoon with my first delivery. They said they will be by to deliver it daily
at 8 am. Of Course I have to boil it and drink it within a 24 hour period
because of no refrigeration – but I still feel luxurious with this amenity!!
Not to mention I have electricity in every room of my home – so I can keep my
PC and electronics charged as long as the service is working. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also unpacked my American Flag – courtesy of Wal-Mart. It
is hanging on my door to my kitchen and I feel my home is my little American
outpost. I have boiled my water and have a pitcher with drinking water and a
thermos for hot water or milk. Ironically my thermos was made by a company in
Nashville TN called Megatrade International Inc. They sell thermoses in 84
countries. See <a href="http://www.megavacuumflask.com/">http://www.megavacuumflask.com/</a> their zip code is 37204 – same as my house
in Nashville – WEIRD as my Worlds Collide!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Note on Packages
& Gifts<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I no longer need feminine products, rubber bands, taco mix,
brownies, or coffee – so please hold off on them and only send things that you
feel I might need. (A letter is nice too!) I don’t think I will need anything
else for a long time. I also have deodorant, sunscreen, pens, soup and
oatmeal/grits to last me a long while…and I am pretty sure there are still more
in transit. Thanks to Lisa, Mary and Margo for the ones waiting for me when I
arrived in Gulu. I have to admit it’s
nice to know I have a team that can mobilize in a minute when I call on you
all!!! I will definitely let you know when I receive your packages…so don’t
fret – one PCV waited over a year for his package to get to him in Uganda. I
think it went to Asia first! So that’s all for now – My next challenge is
getting into my new work environment. I am ready to start doing things instead
of training. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers! Love Karla<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-21073808355792111292011-10-03T23:27:00.002+03:002012-03-06T13:35:37.320+03:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Technical Immersion, Final Training Weeks, African
Observations</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOfOxVHO6PMTrPvU0CwCjOzymDSXOJfymyRK0nEwkchM-pQ2s9xol_Tk5JNremNHi9-JyDbPYcqq1BPHNCKo5E8_Dm3ZPAaAm-mj_XqbfCahSj8spynGkXPfkaATZmUL6_hNDKkqnZqk/s1600/Tech+Immersion-Coffee+Coop+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOfOxVHO6PMTrPvU0CwCjOzymDSXOJfymyRK0nEwkchM-pQ2s9xol_Tk5JNremNHi9-JyDbPYcqq1BPHNCKo5E8_Dm3ZPAaAm-mj_XqbfCahSj8spynGkXPfkaATZmUL6_hNDKkqnZqk/s200/Tech+Immersion-Coffee+Coop+035.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On Tech Immersion in Kasese District</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OK I am convinced Peace Corps has a hidden agenda to make
training so grueling and so stressful that by the time you find yourself alone
in a remote village you think its bliss. My 10-week Training has alternately
been exhausting (we go all day Mon-Sat, walk an hour each way to get to class, live
in Ugandan homes without indoor plumbing, and are expected to do homework and
hand-wash our clothes in buckets, - basically borderline abusive) and then exhilarating.
The exhilarating parts come in fits and
spurts and mostly it’s a grind to attend hour after hour of classes. I admit
the classes have me prepared to live here for 2 years. If I had been placed in
the field without training, I would have never made it. So yes the content is
valuable – I just think it could be consolidated and delivered more efficiently
so as to get both Saturday and Sunday off. Maybe it’s an age thing…but in my
defense the 20-somethings look tired too!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Technical
Immersion<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUQN7ioWW_ZjnEy6D1nDbGuE69ebrcmdt1D4vaQsygIfd5HfL7ApfojNLV0f9kErc9uBZ8E8gyaRv0Oo9D-mScd6_HXBQIsQJ5YnXd4gKBUlVaCQsfDQ1xZbK_3x0qTJ34cLgnEHjnos/s1600/Tech+Immersion-Coffee+Coop+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUQN7ioWW_ZjnEy6D1nDbGuE69ebrcmdt1D4vaQsygIfd5HfL7ApfojNLV0f9kErc9uBZ8E8gyaRv0Oo9D-mScd6_HXBQIsQJ5YnXd4gKBUlVaCQsfDQ1xZbK_3x0qTJ34cLgnEHjnos/s200/Tech+Immersion-Coffee+Coop+050.JPG" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids & Coffee Beans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So the exhilarating parts come when we actually get to
interact with Ugandans in the field. I have visited really interesting places
and love getting to see the real deal. Classroom theory can only hold your
attention so long. I returned last Friday
from western Uganda where a group of 10 of us visited a coffee cooperative in
the highlands outside of Kasese…not far from the Congo border. The most amazing thing is that in this remote
area that has no electric power and only 2% of the people can read, the entire
culture is being changed by a coffee cooperative. The cooperative does typical
things like educating farmers on ways to improve their crop yield, but they
also deliver comprehensive social services by sending trainers up into the
mountains to talk about gender equality, rights of women and children, domestic
violence, and addiction. They teach all people to draw their vision of a better
life and then draw the steps they need to take to get there. They also draw
pictures of the opportunities and threats that might arise along the way. It
was phenomenal to see every peasant we met take out their notebooks to show us
their drawings. The cooperative has
3,500 farmers and its own micro finance organization. (<a href="http://bukonzocoop.com/index.html">http://bukonzocoop.com/index.html</a>)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtR2s7GIZtUeOUfGUVkw8YRR4gfPam792_NMRPTDQEJKvMKX4fz0Q508SHzTX0Spmh97HTKdQgFwfi1WSNubpHszpwr5wXFYyUKlp4uXjJZgETapUrW8wcFG_IUYHxcTsH2jqVps4iLlo/s1600/Tech+Immersion-Coffee+Coop+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtR2s7GIZtUeOUfGUVkw8YRR4gfPam792_NMRPTDQEJKvMKX4fz0Q508SHzTX0Spmh97HTKdQgFwfi1WSNubpHszpwr5wXFYyUKlp4uXjJZgETapUrW8wcFG_IUYHxcTsH2jqVps4iLlo/s200/Tech+Immersion-Coffee+Coop+039.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highlands of Western Uganda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ok, did I mention that the western region of Uganda is the
area with more tourist attractions like game preserves and also one of the most
picturesque! We passed through Fort Portal which is known for its tea estates –
we saw miles of green tea fields – it was something to see. <o:p></o:p><a href="http://pearlsofuganda.org/">http://pearlsofuganda.org/</a> <a href="http://www.visituganda.com/">http://www.visituganda.com/</a> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Final Training Weeks</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alright – On to my final weeks of training – We had a mock
language proficiency interview to prepare us for the actual test coming at the
end of this week. I am not going to win any awards in speaking Acholi, but I plan
to pass by the skin of my teeth. So keep your fingers crossed for me!!! We also
had a round robin verbal exam where we moved from one table to another
answering question regarding things such as safety, community development, HIV
Aids, malaria, cross cultural issues, personal medical topics, economic
development principles, etc - basically
all we learned over the last 9 weeks. It was empowering to see how much we have
covered, and that I have retained a great deal of it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week we will say goodbye to our host families with an
event on Saturday Oct 8<sup>th</sup>. We will have American picnic games for
the kids as well as a demonstration on how to make American Pizza. We will also
have a lunch with traditional Ugandan and American meals. Vegetable Spaghetti
will be the American fare. I helped do the research on locating tomato paste –
like almost everything here it comes from China!!! African Fare will be Matooke
(green bananas steamed or boiled and then mashed) Posho (some kind of corn
based starch with the consistency of very hard mashed potatoes), G-nut sauce (a
peanut sauce they put over the Matooke and Posho), meat cooked in a sauce to
put over rice, and most likely avocados and pineapple which grow everywhere
here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgYakCDlWgPtfRLeII2U3wkttnijA-GTUX5okS3ON6JgHeN7PouFA37FgAlrkiP0-ElzvIrThAZraEJKV3XeWbrN7eMHQEnhW_7QuAloPNBhCIAR5VY4QG6FQQ-qZHBP3lkaLhrNBpjA/s1600/100_6233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgYakCDlWgPtfRLeII2U3wkttnijA-GTUX5okS3ON6JgHeN7PouFA37FgAlrkiP0-ElzvIrThAZraEJKV3XeWbrN7eMHQEnhW_7QuAloPNBhCIAR5VY4QG6FQQ-qZHBP3lkaLhrNBpjA/s200/100_6233.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me carrying water for bathing, cooking, washing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I of course will greatly miss my host sister and brother. We
have become a close family. They have taken care of me and I have tried to
reciprocate in ways that I can. Today Florence surprised me with a bolt of Congolese
made Kitende fabric and then escorted me to a tailor to have a custom African dress
made for me. I plan to wear it on Saturday to the host family thank you event. I will post pictures later of my incredible
fashion moment!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVqrfopIzxhgDRziuw2gyf4aHjttC-PlDyG-oUYQH24W7_D185c1HT26ciT-6N7KLPYlLBM2gS5VAAdANNUbDaCYF1zYTmaL5Bcyqtk9civCijsobrrLFST3IY6m4x2iNB-UqjMTtXfMM/s1600/100_6227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVqrfopIzxhgDRziuw2gyf4aHjttC-PlDyG-oUYQH24W7_D185c1HT26ciT-6N7KLPYlLBM2gS5VAAdANNUbDaCYF1zYTmaL5Bcyqtk9civCijsobrrLFST3IY6m4x2iNB-UqjMTtXfMM/s200/100_6227.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Brother filling water at spring nearby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Tuesday Oct 11, we will move to Kampala for 3 days of PC
policy and safety training. We will be joined by our assigned organization
supervisors and we will jointly plan what each Peace Corps Volunteer will focus
on over the next couple of years. Basically this is to help educate our host
organizations on what they can expect from us and to reiterate what is required
from them. On Thursday Oct 13, we will sworn-in as official Peace Corps Volunteers
and will drop the word “trainee” from our titles. Basically its graduation from
bootcamp! Then there is a celebration before we leave the next am for our
various sites. Each person now has all
the luggage they flew over with plus what they accumulated from 10 weeks of various
Ugandan shopping experiences. Imagine the Beverly Hill Billies moving out across
Uganda.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>African
Observations<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes it sounds like Africa here. There are more exotic birds squawking
everywhere you go, than you would imagine. There are hug storks and large yelling
birds and gentle lovely little songbirds. Some birds make you think you are in
a Jurassic Park movie – they resemble pterodactyls. There are roosters, hens, pigs, cows and goats
everywhere. In my homestay we have 10 plus chickens, roosters and chicks that
are kept inside at night next to our kitchen. We also have 5 piglets that are
rapidly becoming fat pigs. They shriek when it’s feeding time. You would be
amazed at the ruckus they create. Much
of the sounds of Africa are man-made. Ugandans like all media played on high
volume. So you can hear everyone’s TVs, radios, church service etc. If the
electricity is on, the entire neighborhood is competing to burst your
eardrums!! Makes it a blessing when the electricity goes out!! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whats really surprising to me is how well dressed many
Ugandans are every day. The ladies wear skirts and professional blouses and the
men wear trousers and nice shirts. Whereas we Americans often look like hippies
or just barely presentable in comparison. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is also amusing is that all the used clothing from the
US and Europe ends up here. I even saw a Tennessee Titans sweatshirt walking
down the streets of Wakiso a couple weeks back. All our t-shirts for family
reunions and bank openings are alive and well in a Ugandan home. My host mom uses a 3XL Penn State Nittany
Lion t-shirt as our bathing room floor mat. I am sure my in-laws would be
surprised at this situation. (Yes its typical to use old clothing as an area
rug or door mat.) My host brother broke out a European Ski team jacket yesrday
when the temperature fell to about 60 degrees. That’s really cold here and
therefore necessitates a parka! However fairly often you can see an African
woman wearing a shiny sequined prom dress or ball gown; and though we think it’s
rather funny, they are considered very stylish and smart looking. <o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI3iuDXhoYj0TPCesa0KOfkmujoYqMaaT6PRymKa62vaj50CSsuUFiap_ZIK_9q7uycYTrJu-vEpfYBvHcLIf5r2w8cTzmg_hemjjjd5sUuW_xJplYzaqhKjbJL6fi7BOZim8kWlhIk0/s1600/100_6226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirI3iuDXhoYj0TPCesa0KOfkmujoYqMaaT6PRymKa62vaj50CSsuUFiap_ZIK_9q7uycYTrJu-vEpfYBvHcLIf5r2w8cTzmg_hemjjjd5sUuW_xJplYzaqhKjbJL6fi7BOZim8kWlhIk0/s200/100_6226.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boys with homemade pool table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another Ugandan custom is that men can have multiple wives
and have even more mistresses on the side…they are called side-dishes. Most
American men I know would not want that many women, but maybe it’s because US
women have rights and opinions. Here it
is very unusual for women to own property and men can divorce you if you become
“stubborn”. I am pretty sure I would not have made it to my 1<sup>st</sup> year
anniversary if I had married a Ugandan. Where
I come from “stubborn women” are revered <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span>. Also if a Ugandan man divorces his wife, he
keeps the children. They are considered his property. This makes it very hard for women to complain
or to fight back against mental or physical abuse. Needless to say this is not
Kansas anymore Toto!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>A BIG Thanks<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So that’s my latest update on my Ugandan Vision Quest. I am
still glad to be here and happy to report my husband is still very supportive
of my journey to Africa to find myself. We talk every other day and are
enjoying learning of the other’s daily activities. I hear my sons and dogs are
also well, so I am secure in knowing we are all growing into ourselves very nicely.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally thanks to my friends and family for the numerous packages
that are waiting for me when I leave the comfort of my training class and
venture out alone to my 3 room hut at School in Koro
Abili in Gulu District. Feel free to send
your own list of items, as surprises are also fun. Also keep sending me emails
and letters – I don’t want to be forgotten while I am scampering across Uganda.
Peace to you all - Karla<o:p></o:p></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-4930088337975558522011-09-17T17:34:00.000+03:002012-05-21T20:28:23.612+03:00Packages, Immersion, Site Visit, Embassy Party<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWhcK9S4Z_YwmC2cPBHw2ZhW8hM_OU1bCFbBXPPKArq7bNFq73IqTjXEK-aElxxasxmHhf2RlfIgNQqaR2DP37RFm7KYyppfDpSUFqpv2TgOPe1SsebzJR63XvszgVBiyzUJqe_v_qMU/s1600/Karla+at+homestay.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWhcK9S4Z_YwmC2cPBHw2ZhW8hM_OU1bCFbBXPPKArq7bNFq73IqTjXEK-aElxxasxmHhf2RlfIgNQqaR2DP37RFm7KYyppfDpSUFqpv2TgOPe1SsebzJR63XvszgVBiyzUJqe_v_qMU/s320/Karla+at+homestay.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me in My Wakiso Home Front Yard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Yes! You can send me Stuff</u></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"My Name"<br />
Peace Corps Volunteer-Uganda<br />
PO Box 914<br />
Gulu Town, UGANDA - AFRICA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You might want to write <i>God Bless this Package</i> and put a cross or religious icon on it to help insure it gets to me. If you have religious stickers I hear those work well. Send padded envelopes or small boxes, I hear it’s expensive, so pick a few items from the list below and be prepared to pay Mr. Postman! Remove things from boxes and put them in Ziploc bags – this reduces size and weight and I will reuse the Ziplocs <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Items I would like are:</b> Brownie Mix, Individual Oatmeal Packets, Taco Seasoning, Kool Aid/Crystal Light, McCormick Seasonings, Cheese Packets from Mac n Cheese (remove the macaroni – I can get that here), rubber bands, TAMPONS – not one in the whole country (I think it’s due to religious beliefs), Starbucks Via instant coffee, hand sanitizer, pens…and a personal note and a surprise or two! I will send you an email once it arrives!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Language Immersion<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whew – what a busy and sometimes exhausting week and a half!
13 of us left at 6:15 am on Thursday Sept 8<sup>th</sup> with our 3 language instructors
to travel to Gulu for our 3 Days of language immersion. The trip involved a 45
minute van ride to Kampala and then a 5.5 hour bus ride to Gulu via the Post
Office Bus. This bus is considered safer and doesn’t require one to go to the busier
bus parks. (Bus Parks and Taxi Parks are where you go to get a ride via bus or
taxi). However the Post Bus is the vehicle transporting mail and ….as it turns
out ….milk! So it takes a longer time but it doesn’t travel at the same deathly
speeds as other buses travel.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We arrived in Gulu around 2 pm and were met by several PCVs
(Peace Corps Volunteers) already stationed in the surrounding areas. We went
immediately to an American style coffee house and I had good coffee for the
first time in 6 weeks. All I can get in Wakiso is instant coffee. Yes this is
the first major drawback of being in the Peace Corps! We also ordered cheese
burgers and chicken avocado croissants – these are also not available in 99.9%
of Uganda!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We traveled by 4-wheel SUV to the Golden Peace Hotel and
were delighted we each had our own private bedrooms and better yet – private indoor
flush toilet and shower. Things were looking up! How nice to have some privacy and amenities
after the last month and a half. That
night it was great fun to share a beverage, eat pizza and talk about our
experiences into the night without worrying about being home before dark. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Friday we went to the USAID (US Agency for International
Development) Northern Uganda Field office and were educated on their operations
and initiatives in the region. We then visited the Gulu Local Council 5 (LC5)
District Chairman’s office and were updated on their plans for the Gulu
District. This is the highest level Official in the Gulu District. I was
interested in their plans for recovery and reconciliation after the 20+ year
was with the LRA. One thing Gulu has going for it is the town’s location. Its
proximity to South Sudan, the Congo and the West Nile Region of Uganda means it
will continue growing as a regional distribution hub. Any goods traveling to
these areas must past through Gulu. There are no other paved roads. While at
the LC5’s office we shared the names of the organizations where we will be
serving. The LC5’s technical advisor invited me to sit in on the Entrepreneur and
IGA (Income Generating Activities) meetings once I am back to Gulu and working
at the Vocational School. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After these meetings we broke into small groups and went to
eat some local foods and practice our Acholi. I have learned a great number of
nouns and verbs, but still struggle putting sentences together and getting the
tenses out correctly. I can communicate – just at a 4 year old level. We were tasked with asking directions and
finding our way to several landmarks, grocery stores and the main market. By
5pm we were beat and headed back to our hotel for dinner there. Most of us had
fish & chips and it was very good. The next day we were sent back to Gulu
for more interaction with the locals. I did a little shopping and practiced my
language, but we find most people in Gulu can communicate in English at some
level – so we could always get by. In
the afternoon we went to an American style restaurant owned by a couple from Minnesota.
I had a coffee milkshake and a burger and was very happy. Then it was off to
see an Acholi Dance performance by a youth group that a PCV has worked with for
the last 2 years. It was great fun and I think I made many new friends with my enthusiastic
attempts to learn parts of the dance! We finished the night at an Ethiopian
Restaurant that the local PCVs use as a gathering place every Saturday night. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoDUUmr-hx-IFFCw3IHBEbZGJv9uFbPMSD_5yjq-hnxXaLWFoKUtwIaL_6YHAgQqZisKe2fy61XYtQ8xuESNDzeBqsxPUKFPCMAu06fxkUh6xv__yRANM7Bq3aJ6xHUMy0hDvmODAElzE/s1600/admin+%252B+staff+bldgs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoDUUmr-hx-IFFCw3IHBEbZGJv9uFbPMSD_5yjq-hnxXaLWFoKUtwIaL_6YHAgQqZisKe2fy61XYtQ8xuESNDzeBqsxPUKFPCMAu06fxkUh6xv__yRANM7Bq3aJ6xHUMy0hDvmODAElzE/s320/admin+%252B+staff+bldgs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staff Hut and Admin Bldgs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Future Assignment Site
Visit<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sunday September 11, 2011 – exactly ten years after the Sept
11<sup>th</sup> terrorist attacks – I set off to visit my host Organization,
the Vocational School. I was met by my Counterpart –
the accountant, and we traveled to the school. The School is located 8
kilometers south of Gulu on 20 acres and was started by a Reverend (now a
Bishop) over 20 years ago, shortly after the war began in Northern Uganda. It
has received aid money from the Danish, Germans and Australians (and others) to
build dormitories, livestock pens, areas for vocational workshops, and
classrooms. It also has working agricultural fields and a mill for grinding grains
and maize. Presently they teach tailoring, brick making and concrete work, carpentry
& joinery, motor vehicle repair & metal working, and agriculture. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_JJ0v0PPTGufoNz_bUn1GrSwBfdTwxYNOTHYszMxTC3pOhB2FwUKPDYNHVnSZVvUO_jZwUyZ7OwG_3Ied-C2N39mMfYVMvwGhqiFKjOz4j2ANXLirarrVyGJsMzLZFJaWv760aFVYrmQ/s1600/Rest+of+admin+bldge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_JJ0v0PPTGufoNz_bUn1GrSwBfdTwxYNOTHYszMxTC3pOhB2FwUKPDYNHVnSZVvUO_jZwUyZ7OwG_3Ied-C2N39mMfYVMvwGhqiFKjOz4j2ANXLirarrVyGJsMzLZFJaWv760aFVYrmQ/s320/Rest+of+admin+bldge.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Administrative Bldgs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Everyone learns the agricultural skills as
almost every Ugandan has small gardens/farms for feeding themselves. The school
is in process of building an irrigation system to irrigate ¼ acre to insure
production through the dry season. In addition to agriculture, all students are
required to study English and Entrepreneurial Skills courses. Presently the
enrollment is down to 118 from a high of 300 students. This is due to the
downturn in the global economy reducing aid budgets as well as funding leaving
the area since the war ended. Most students are trying to pay their school fees
from their family & friends or from some work they do on the side. Given
the desperate nature of this population of youths, many will not attend or
finish if they start. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-GB">Mission Statement:
</span></i></b><i><span lang="EN-GB">To provide quality practical skills to orphans,
the destitute, formerly abducted youth and school dropouts caught in the
insurgency in the Acholi sub-region as well as those affected by the HIV/AIDS
scourge to become economically self-supporting and employed.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">After touring
the school and learning about it from Beatrice, I was taken to a roadside guest
house across the main highway for my next 3 nights’ accommodations. This consisted of several concrete block rooms
built in a U-shape that created a concrete courtyard in the center. The people were very friendly and I felt safe
and welcomed. I was informed the next day that I was the first white person to
ever stay in their hotel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtASr04HlZ0x78jykO9GOlDGU2faqGlmpd352zmLWf3sbXpeLogRcC9-nsbVSdbOtZI0GJ0He0nnfnJCsLGnvFYmHWq_qUB4XYjXtProlwoPuAgzbrd6FG1Al0LeAOCIXff_RTGswYf0/s1600/my+home+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtASr04HlZ0x78jykO9GOlDGU2faqGlmpd352zmLWf3sbXpeLogRcC9-nsbVSdbOtZI0GJ0He0nnfnJCsLGnvFYmHWq_qUB4XYjXtProlwoPuAgzbrd6FG1Al0LeAOCIXff_RTGswYf0/s320/my+home+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Future Home - I get the Left Side!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">I was
disappointed my home was not ready but was glad to see construction was in
progress. They have commandeered a former student reading room and are making
it into 2 small apartments; one for me, and one for our School Director, Diana.
It is a round structure approximately 30 feet in diameter. We will each have
half of the circular building, each half has 3 rooms, 3 glass windows with decorative
metal security bars, and large entry double-doors made of glass with decorative
metal security bars. Outside we will share a garden; a pit latrine and a bathing
structure….all 3 outside structures are yet to be built. I hope it will be
ready by October 14<sup>th</sup> when I arrive. The good news is there are several mango and Guava Trees on the path to my home!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJ04Vw-arI3IZQaLtkpWo2-KYNplSPa3x_8bIA_WrzoG5Y29C5_CYfnMNfN4HV6MpAS7w-WmpfNIfgj9i5sJI0Hofp4Yfc_38IbMNzFVNmpQl4TdwgaoWnHqF68E_hrCtG-Rmea4BHRc/s1600/Staff+break+room+.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJ04Vw-arI3IZQaLtkpWo2-KYNplSPa3x_8bIA_WrzoG5Y29C5_CYfnMNfN4HV6MpAS7w-WmpfNIfgj9i5sJI0Hofp4Yfc_38IbMNzFVNmpQl4TdwgaoWnHqF68E_hrCtG-Rmea4BHRc/s320/Staff+break+room+.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staff Break Hut</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-GB">On Monday my
supervisor arrived back from her niece’s wedding in Kampala and we hit the
ground running at 8am. She reviewed the org history, structure and staff. She
also stayed with me the next two nights at the guest house to insure I felt
safe and was taken care of properly. We ate our meals there together in the am
and pm and enjoyed the chance to get to know each other. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">So I now
know where I will live and to some extent what I will be working on for the next
2 years. I am excited and a little anxious. I have so many ideas going through
my head and hope they will settle into a plan once I start working with my colleagues.
I placed an order for furniture with the
Carpentry shop so I hope to have the basics when I arrive. The biggest
challenges I see off the bat is that I can only get to Gulu via bicycle, so I
will have to purchase one when I arrive; and there is no market or store in my
little town of Koro Abili so I will need to go to Gulu often to fetch supplies
on my bike. One upside is I think I will have fresh cow’s milk daily since there
are milk cows on the school grounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></u></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><u style="font-weight: bold;">50</u><sup style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">th</sup><u style="font-weight: bold;"> Anniversary Party for USAID
& Peace Corps</u> <u style="font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWasYHj5cbtdVP02THFm0izbb1UU_p-7q5vWnYbgjMILdrnwMKieXZ5tbMU1Nf_kX1v2vXTCT4F9WrmEmD7TJ80LeG_nR40PQ6ISffZLnpVw3jg1sPe57e1LFgOFw5e6_LYR7PY-8Cu8/s1600/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWasYHj5cbtdVP02THFm0izbb1UU_p-7q5vWnYbgjMILdrnwMKieXZ5tbMU1Nf_kX1v2vXTCT4F9WrmEmD7TJ80LeG_nR40PQ6ISffZLnpVw3jg1sPe57e1LFgOFw5e6_LYR7PY-8Cu8/s320/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+025.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Program & Flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-GB">I am sure
you are all wondering how the big embassy party for the 50<sup>th</sup>
Anniversary of USAID and Peace Corps turned out. Well it was absolutely
wonderful on many levels. My fashion-inability did not keep me from having a magnificent
time. (I think I looked swell in my Hudson’s Treasure hunt skirt and shirts.)
So the embassy is a huge concrete structure covering a large area surrounded by
high walls, barbed wire, German shepherds and guards. The guards outside look
like Ugandan natives and inside the guards are Marines. So it was like entering
a fortress - including metal detectors and security checks. We had to show our
Peace Corps IDs and our Printed Invitations with our names on them along with
our passports. Getting in was a big deal, no average US pedestrian was getting
access to this gala event!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Our crew of
approximately 50 people arrived over an hour early – you have to count on bad
traffic in order to be assured you make an event in Kampala. Luckily traffic
was not too bad and we made really good time. So when we arrived the set up was
in its final stages – three large tents had 3 large bars preparing to serve
beer & wine and soft drinks. Each tent had numerous tables with beautiful
red, white & blue floral arrangements with Ugandan and US flags in them.
(At the end of the night I was allowed to take one home to my homestay sister
Florence!) There were also many potters showing USAID programs and old Peace
Corps recruiting posters. I took a million pictures during the event. So being
early we went to the bar on the back grounds of the embassy where Marines were
serving hot dogs and there was a bar with – can you imagine my delight – Real US
Bourbon and safe ICE. So being starved
for anything from home, we all began eating and drinking the taste of the good
old USA. There were people from other Peace Corps Uganda classes and many
people from USAID, as well as many Ugandans. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGns9EYn44oEJaMbfeApb2bxLal4GKcWTcD3r-rIG8G61W2ean69X-vPIUd2Z1aobuxzlxYDezFepSEvlodtIOXNXGYfD7kYHfncoOgipYXzYrQsR3Fr2vpdgZXW5CMj_N_XZyp3GUrfQ/s1600/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGns9EYn44oEJaMbfeApb2bxLal4GKcWTcD3r-rIG8G61W2ean69X-vPIUd2Z1aobuxzlxYDezFepSEvlodtIOXNXGYfD7kYHfncoOgipYXzYrQsR3Fr2vpdgZXW5CMj_N_XZyp3GUrfQ/s320/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+019.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me in front of PC Recruiting Advertisement</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95MDRroKUa6yY8K4t9XmW5VNmfuDvGpQ3qNMP7GFEy2YmveWwb_0lsh_NEBT4F73UjhNG2-zoReozQ7se-faaOPcyEe4SihLb6lbiGdWUdulVQoxIu81qU3Vh5vzgHt64oThggT46oaA/s1600/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95MDRroKUa6yY8K4t9XmW5VNmfuDvGpQ3qNMP7GFEy2YmveWwb_0lsh_NEBT4F73UjhNG2-zoReozQ7se-faaOPcyEe4SihLb6lbiGdWUdulVQoxIu81qU3Vh5vzgHt64oThggT46oaA/s200/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+064.JPG" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cultural Dancer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-GB">The event
had Ugandan drummers and native dancing by girls from an orphanage where a
Peace Corps Volunteers is assigned (childrenofuganda.org). The Ambassador Jerry
P Lanier (a UNC grad) spoke 1<sup>st</sup> followed by the Ugandan National
Anthem and the US National Anthem. Then Professor Ephraim Kamuntu, the Minister
of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities spoke. He was a perfect person to talk about
the impact USAID and Peace Corps has had on Uganda, as he had a Chemistry
teacher from Peace corps and won a scholarship to study in the US from USAID. Afterwards
two cakes were cut – one by the Peace Corps Country Director and one by the
USAID Mission Director in Uganda. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Well – our group
was having a great time. It was nice to hear how appreciative Uganda is for the
US support from our 2 organizations and we were all reminded why we joined the
Peace Corps in the first place. So when a great band started playing US,
Ugandan, and Hispanic tunes, everyone began to dance – including the ambassador
and his wife, the Peace Corps country director and many of the volunteers, our trainers
and other Ugandans in attendance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBXEOJYNVLnP_q4V-MVfzciXWIzynMC8BbEmNHWDKwL5qWfJL0LH8lHgcXVKDBsO4yIpXIrUuwN7UbVGRZzJ-4qG9iUVdS9lHPKckjt-M6jUC3N9hmM-N0Lug4FRtlQ-Ccw7u5d-Fs58/s1600/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBXEOJYNVLnP_q4V-MVfzciXWIzynMC8BbEmNHWDKwL5qWfJL0LH8lHgcXVKDBsO4yIpXIrUuwN7UbVGRZzJ-4qG9iUVdS9lHPKckjt-M6jUC3N9hmM-N0Lug4FRtlQ-Ccw7u5d-Fs58/s320/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot Peace Corps Babes at the Embassy! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwsbFESdeeJkn7sQJQDmcjK6-gwFjyH0-CzPe199tzikb66a_aSffOOTmbn6uHxKQKlbErR2IwA5DgXjo9cGkSboXfQaFJ7vvhuTEb4NhXYmExCU47XVv6qDXJOsSJNTleZ7MwaG9Ua4U/s1600/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwsbFESdeeJkn7sQJQDmcjK6-gwFjyH0-CzPe199tzikb66a_aSffOOTmbn6uHxKQKlbErR2IwA5DgXjo9cGkSboXfQaFJ7vvhuTEb4NhXYmExCU47XVv6qDXJOsSJNTleZ7MwaG9Ua4U/s320/Embassy+Party+09-15-2011+083.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PC Country Director Lucine and Laura Cutting Cake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">So now I am
in my bed in Wakiso town after just eating a late lunch of fried fish, fried potatoes,
fruit salad and sautéed cabbage with vegetables feeling glad to be where I’m
at!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-27731615738142320592011-09-07T21:09:00.000+03:002012-03-06T13:19:01.921+03:00Gulu Town or Bust!Woo-Hoo I am going to the outskirts of a fairly large town..dare I say city...here in Uganda. I will be 4 hours north of Kampala in the area that until just 5 years ago was ravaged by a 20+ year war and reign of terror. I will be working as a business adviser to a vocational school. I am very excited as this ties in many of my loves. Working with young adults, growing business ideas and income generating activities, working with my hands, and having variety in my daily activities. I hear they have carpentry, electrical, plumbing, brick making, agriculture, animal husbandry etc.... Yes - I will most likely be able to have a garden as they have a program in agriculture :).<br />
<br />
Tomorrow I leave for 3 days of language immersion in Gulu Town. There are 13 Acholi speaking language students and we are all being immersed in Gulu Town, a bonus for me and the other 5 volunteers being placed in the Gulu area. On Sunday I travel a few kilometers to my actual site and will meet my supervisor and local counterpart. Both are women so I am excited to meet these ladies. I spend 3 nights there...cant wait to see where I will be living for the next 2 years. Then I travel back solo to my home-stay in Wakiso for my last 4 weeks in training. <br />
<br />
A fun event is scheduled for Thursday Sept 15th; our entire class of 46 is invited to the US Embassy for the 50th anniversary celebration of the Peace Corps. I need to find something fancy enough to wear. My Merrill Boots and Chacos wont cut it. I wish my sister Adele could come and dress me up pretty!!! Adele is amazing with fashion, style and class. Guess the Ambassador will have to settle for my fashion-in-ability!<br />
<br />
Sorry to make this short - I will write more when I return in a week with lots more info.<br />
Eat a hamburger, a chocolate bar and have a coke over ice for me!!!! Love KKarla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8653635129755502657.post-4627265057009352552011-08-28T19:29:00.001+03:002011-08-29T22:50:31.103+03:00Yes Indeed - Africa is Different from Nashville<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall my assimilation into Uganda has gone smoothly since being placed in my Homestay Family in Wakiso Town for the 10\-week Peace Corps Training. I live with a lovely lady and her 6 year old nephew. My host sister is the first person to take great care of me since I was a child. She heats water twice a day for me to take a bucket bath - which is actually a very sensual and personal experience. I have not spent such quiet relaxing time with myself in a long while. I get home from class - which is an hour hike each way - and I come into my home where there is frequently a fresh Mango waiting for me. I then may go with my 6 year old to the nearby well to haul water to the house. He is a very strong boy because, like most Ugandan children, he must carry approximately 15 liters of water per person to the house each day. I help when I can but this young man does the lion's share for our home of 3 people. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8q02P0EWbDHDoHyywC235e_lLFvxygAXXR-I7zShZEK_q8GyZjEN1_5W4EPD7hyphenhyphenBroV7Np3xLDHWYwL6Y_RlKtqX1cFhyphenhyphent8hRCFbLuy7ulfmVLEJyHJ1ynwktuvP_f_i13bVOtys_24/s1600/100_5998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8q02P0EWbDHDoHyywC235e_lLFvxygAXXR-I7zShZEK_q8GyZjEN1_5W4EPD7hyphenhyphenBroV7Np3xLDHWYwL6Y_RlKtqX1cFhyphenhyphent8hRCFbLuy7ulfmVLEJyHJ1ynwktuvP_f_i13bVOtys_24/s320/100_5998.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My host family in front of our home</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My sister speaks English very well, so I am lucky to have good communication during my stay. Not everyone is so lucky. She is also a good cook. All drinking water must be boiled and all vegetables cooked or blanched in boiling water and she cooks over charcoal or kerosene. Just getting this all done requires her to rise early and work all day. She is a gracious host and I am very fond of her. Ugandans are also very clean. They bathe twice a day and iron all their clothes - frequently using a charcoal iron...if you can imagine that!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">What is very different in Uganda is the general lack of easy access to water, electricity, and waste disposal. Water is available, but most people must carry it home. Rain collection is very big but usually must be subsidized with carrying from the well in the dry season. Electricity is somewhat available in the towns - my home is wired for it and we receive it about 3-5 hours per day...but it is inconsistent and not easily predictable, so you can never count on it. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The worst situation is the waste disposal. There is no collection of waste in almost all locations. My city of Wakiso Town (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wakiso_Town">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wakiso_Town</a>) has a population of 21,000 has no trash disposal. Thus people burn or bury their trash....and in the poorer places they leave it on the roadside in front of their homes and stores. There is also no removal of waste water and this facilitates the high disease rates in this country. Peace Corps does a good job at teaching us how to handle these hygiene challenges and, with diligence, one can navigate through the challenges and remain healthy. My home has a pit latrine ...that is a hole in the ground covered by a cement floor and raised above the "Pit". It is covered when not being used in order to reduce access by flies - this one precaution reduces the incidence of disease by a great percentage. Lucky for me my Yoga teacher Jen helped me get in Pit Latrine shape before I arrived. Thanks Jen for all the squats!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Another big change is the road system - or lack there of!!. There are a few paved roads in Uganda - only the main roads from the capital to the other large cities are paved - all the rest are dirt/mud roads. Trucks get stuck daily as the rains create flash floods and gullies and trenches form in the middles of the roads. Thus transportation is unpredictable and traveling 200 miles can easily take 8 or more hours. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So the big difference is LACK OF INFRASTRUCTURE. Americans are so spoiled with all our public works and systems that we take for granted. Please be thankful for our roads, water, sanitation, electricity and gas. Our level of convenience is unfathomable to the average Ugandan. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">In 2 weeks I get to travel to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulu">Gulu</a> town for language immersion and the week after that, I get to tour the site I will be assigned to for the next 2 years. Once I know where I am going to live and what organization I will be assigned to, I think it will really get exciting.<br />
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Yesterday we had a recreational day and toured the Entebbe Zoo and Botanical gardens - Robert you would have loved the tropical forests at the botanical gardens!!!! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7vlU33FVAS80gjs8E1NLOPCLa0vXCCVho9DHeCMD9RSoNKA7JIoV3fdYrrZXvQ8TnGChrYWCsSUZ6tSWrP7_yObr9dDGnso0-GhijdoaBSNDmO2p4ebVrICCyMXiNVV5AQFiww9DAXU/s1600/Entebbe+Zoo%252BGardens+066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7vlU33FVAS80gjs8E1NLOPCLa0vXCCVho9DHeCMD9RSoNKA7JIoV3fdYrrZXvQ8TnGChrYWCsSUZ6tSWrP7_yObr9dDGnso0-GhijdoaBSNDmO2p4ebVrICCyMXiNVV5AQFiww9DAXU/s320/Entebbe+Zoo%252BGardens+066.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karla at the Botanical Gardens! Loved-Loved-Loved it!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Our group of 46 is developing strong friendships and we will be great support for one another over the next 2 years. Stay in touch!!!<br />
Love you all tons! Karla</div>Karla the Optimist!http://www.blogger.com/profile/11875702810942640822noreply@blogger.com2Wakiso, Uganda0.39805560000000012 32.4780556000000620.39360210000000012 32.471997600000059 0.40250910000000012 32.484113600000065