TODAY WE MEET THE CARE-GIVERS!

Today was easier with Group 1. Ruby and I are each working with 3 kids; but Joyce does an exhaustive intro.....to make it easier!!! Imagine, after 40 years of teaching, I'd be lost without Joyce's help....I sneaked in some smiling face rewards that I didn't tell Joyce about. So did Ruby. Much of the children's' learning is by rote, and difficult to explain to children just learning English... But it was easier than yesterday. Today's highlight was a care-givers meeting to explain that in 2 weeks the children will be served a full, nutritious breakfast, as well as the snack they already receive later in the day. Dollars for this complete meal service has been offered to the children of the Namuwongo Literacy Project through the efforts of Sue Brotherwood, an anonymous donor and the Red Hippo Project. We are, indeed, fortunate to have the support and partnership of The Red Hippo Project. In August, Sue will be bringing a team of talented instructors/educators offering a full, half-day program of 'the arts', including music, drama plastic arts, photography, etc. During the month of August, the academic program will be offered in the morning, the arts program in the afternoon.
The women, mothers and grandmothers, sat on the floor without shoes. It was just like being in Quebec, as everything had to be translated. Most do not speak Lugandi, Uganda's language of the majority, but Acholi or Madi or other native, village languages. It took LONG.......felt familiar. After, and as our treat, we served chapati and a cup of tea to each guest. It was quite something to see this group of women. Not to get biblical, but the travails are etched into the faces....Its better to do SOMETHING than to weep. Of course Bob cried, especially when Joyce told of her being shot by the L.R.A ., and Bob's paying for her to go back to school. I am honestly grateful to have the opportunity to do this.
Bye, and love to all from Judy