After yesterday's tiring, but very fulfilling day, today was joyous and fun-filled! Today was to be my last day with the children and teacher's of the Namuwongo Project. This visit was a whirl-wind, filed with organizational work and some time teaching the children in the classroom. But it passed too quickly! I arranged for a good-bye party with our children and their neighboring, same-aged, primary class. It still amazes me how a little bit of popcorn cookies, the Ugandan version of the WAGON WHEEL cakes, and Mango juice can bring such expectation and joy to the faces of these young children. The classroom was bursting with children, but you "could have heard a pin drop" as these 5-7 year olds sat quietly, patiently waiting for their teachers' permission to begin enjoying these rare treats.
When all was consumed, they all sang and danced in appreciation, cheering for me and hugging whatever part of my body they could grab! To their great delight, I joined in and danced and clapped with them! Hopefully, the video I am trying to attach to this posting will work and you can see all my 'moves'!
I leave the Namuwongo children with my heart full! I have often mentioned that this experience has changed my life. I must thank my co-director Judy Labow and the many volunteers who have shared experiences here in Namuwongo, Uganda. Thank-you to all the individuals and schools who worked so had to raise $'s and provide materials and supplies. Without our supporters we would not be able to continue helping the children of Namuwongo. I look forward to my next visit!!
Friday, September 24, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE EASIER!
I couldn't submit a BLOG entry yesterday as we experienced one of the many power failures that plagues this country. The power came back on this afternoon and hopefully will stay on until I finish this entry.
Maria, the headmaster of St Henry"s, and I went into the Soweto section of the Namuwongo Shanty Town. This area is even more impoverished than the section from which our existing students live.
(wow! just had another 1/2 hour power failure. Than goodness for the save feature on this BLOG service!)
Since I had visited Namuwongo several times on past visits I thought I might be somewhat 'hardened' to what I would see. Once again, I found myself trying to hold back the tears as I walked through such extreme poverty, watching the wide eyes of the countless numbers of children who jockeyed for the best position to hold this white-haired,balding, somewhat elderly, Muzungo's (white person) hand. Their hunger was apparent as was their curiosity! How could these little bodies that were so hungry still maintain shy smiles and laughter when I would point my camera at them? How would I able able to say "no" to all but the chosen seven?
Maria was terrific! She would literally capture in her arms a child who looked like a potential candidate and ask, usually in their local dialect, a few questions that would indicate whether a child met our simple criteria: an orphan between the ages of 5-7 years not currently attending school, with care-givers (if any) able to get the child to our program. Very quickly we were surrounded by adults who heard that we were looking for children. Many would 'shade' the truth by saying the child was the age we were looking for when they were clearly too young or too old. Maria would question the children directly because they have only known how to tell the truth in their short life experience. I must admit I made only 1 exception. We came upon Grace, a tallish, thin wisp of a girl hiding behind two older woman whom we later discovered were her grandmother and great aunt. Another woman lay on a bench next to them, her head covered by a thin, worn scarf. We asked who Grace's mother was, and one of the old woman pointed to the bench. Grace knelt next to her mother and whispered something to her. Her mother rose from the bench removing the scarf. It was immediately obvious that this was a very sick woman. She appeared very frail, open sores covering several areas of her face. We asked Grace's age and were informed she was 9. Both the mother and the grandmother got down on their knees and explained that the father had died, Grace's mom was seriously ill, and that they wanted Grace to be able to go to school. I had to turn my back so they they could not see the tears that I knew were coming. How could I say 'no' to a child and what was left of her family, who only wanted to go to school, be assured of a meal, and have a place for 8 hours where she could be assured of some joy in her life. Grace has joined the Namuwongo Project!
(wow! just had another 1/2 hour power failure. Than goodness for the save feature on this BLOG service!)
Since I had visited Namuwongo several times on past visits I thought I might be somewhat 'hardened' to what I would see. Once again, I found myself trying to hold back the tears as I walked through such extreme poverty, watching the wide eyes of the countless numbers of children who jockeyed for the best position to hold this white-haired,balding, somewhat elderly, Muzungo's (white person) hand. Their hunger was apparent as was their curiosity! How could these little bodies that were so hungry still maintain shy smiles and laughter when I would point my camera at them? How would I able able to say "no" to all but the chosen seven?
Maria was terrific! She would literally capture in her arms a child who looked like a potential candidate and ask, usually in their local dialect, a few questions that would indicate whether a child met our simple criteria: an orphan between the ages of 5-7 years not currently attending school, with care-givers (if any) able to get the child to our program. Very quickly we were surrounded by adults who heard that we were looking for children. Many would 'shade' the truth by saying the child was the age we were looking for when they were clearly too young or too old. Maria would question the children directly because they have only known how to tell the truth in their short life experience. I must admit I made only 1 exception. We came upon Grace, a tallish, thin wisp of a girl hiding behind two older woman whom we later discovered were her grandmother and great aunt. Another woman lay on a bench next to them, her head covered by a thin, worn scarf. We asked who Grace's mother was, and one of the old woman pointed to the bench. Grace knelt next to her mother and whispered something to her. Her mother rose from the bench removing the scarf. It was immediately obvious that this was a very sick woman. She appeared very frail, open sores covering several areas of her face. We asked Grace's age and were informed she was 9. Both the mother and the grandmother got down on their knees and explained that the father had died, Grace's mom was seriously ill, and that they wanted Grace to be able to go to school. I had to turn my back so they they could not see the tears that I knew were coming. How could I say 'no' to a child and what was left of her family, who only wanted to go to school, be assured of a meal, and have a place for 8 hours where she could be assured of some joy in her life. Grace has joined the Namuwongo Project!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
I'M BACK AGAIN!
It is always a pleasure to return to Uganda and the warm welcome I receive from the children in the Namuwongo Project, as well as the staff members in our program, and, those at St. Henry's Primary School.
The Namuwongo program continues to thrive! Teacher Joyce is an excellent educator for our little ones. Tomorrow I go into Namuwongo for the tremendously difficult task of choosing 7 new children for our program. Walking through the poverty and devastation that is the lives of the Namuwongo inhabitants, and then having to say "no" to some children, always takes away a chunk of my heart.
The rest of today's entry will be given over to a tribute to the late Peter Okoth. Peter was the headmaster of St Henry's Primary School and was a great supporter of the Namuwongo Project. Peter passed away suddenly after returning home to his village during the summer. We will miss him greatly, but are grateful for the continued support for the Namuwongo Project by his replacement, Maria. To best express the 'nature of the man' I have included a tribute to Peter Okoth, written by Laura, a staff member at St. Henry's Primary School.
Dear Friends of St Henry -
The Namuwongo program continues to thrive! Teacher Joyce is an excellent educator for our little ones. Tomorrow I go into Namuwongo for the tremendously difficult task of choosing 7 new children for our program. Walking through the poverty and devastation that is the lives of the Namuwongo inhabitants, and then having to say "no" to some children, always takes away a chunk of my heart.
The rest of today's entry will be given over to a tribute to the late Peter Okoth. Peter was the headmaster of St Henry's Primary School and was a great supporter of the Namuwongo Project. Peter passed away suddenly after returning home to his village during the summer. We will miss him greatly, but are grateful for the continued support for the Namuwongo Project by his replacement, Maria. To best express the 'nature of the man' I have included a tribute to Peter Okoth, written by Laura, a staff member at St. Henry's Primary School.
Dear Friends of St Henry -
With a heavy heart I write to share with you that we have lost our beloved Peter Okoth, Head Master of St Henry's Primary School this last weekend. Cause of death remains uncertain, but believed to be food/water poisoning. He and the family had gone to Tororo for the school holiday, where he became sick. The funeral Mass was held on Monday in Tororo. More then 150 people from Kampala made the journey for the service a testament to who the man was. As I was in Kenya at the time, I was regrettably unable to attend.
Peter was a man who stood head and shoulders above most others literally and figuratively. He was a great Father to not only his own children, but all those who came within his wings. He was role model for being other centered in a place where leadership is defined by helping yourself first. While he and his family lived on modest means (2 Ugandan teacher salaries), there was always enough to share of his resources and time. He never seemed to get dismayed by the perpetual challenges of working and living in this environment. He knew how to be a reed, bending when the wind blows and returning upright when it eased. He was a model of Christian brotherhood for me, and a bright shining star. He had a beautiful relationship with his wife Ester, treating her with respect and dignity, even letting her finish her BA degree first. He was a leader in his faith communities both here in Kampala and his home parish of Tororo, in addition to all his work for the School. He was full of ideas for ways to help make life better for all those around him. He had developed a great vision for St Henry's and built up a good community around the school through the parents and partnerships. He was wanting to ever improve the quality of the education by expanding and broadening the school by bringing in technology, adding a library, trying to get more training for teachers, developing his own skills, making capital improvements, fundraising for the most needy families scholarship fund, and trying to figure out some alternative income generating activity for the school. He was a joy to work with and I will miss him greatly. While we can only rejoice for him that he has joined our Father King, we will carry the burden of his absence for years to come. They say a man never stands so tall as when he bends a knee to help a child. Peter was always standing tall.
He is survived by his lovely wife Ester and their three children Susan, Peter, and Cynthia, as well as a large extended family, 300 plus students and teachers, along with two faith communities--St Charles Lwanga and his home Parish in Tororo.
Laura
Laura
Saturday, July 10, 2010
final final day
I forgot to mention a mystery which I will first give you,drawing it out as long as I can then when you can't stand it anymore and are fearful you will have horrible dreams about it as well as cursing me and threatening to kill me I will give you the answer. So this is the way it begins: the first day I have breakfast--no mystery yet we all have breakfasts or at least we should--when suddenly the roof begins to echo and re-echo with a loud noise. It is as if someone is bowling on the roof. Several times the loud booming is repeated. On the second day-notice how I am prolonging the mystery-the bowling continues. Now Judy is caught up in the mystery as no doubt you are as well. Could large coconuts be falling on the roof and if they are could they someday fall on our heads? But there are no coconut trees near by. Now,like you, we are becoming desperate. What is the source of the loud noise? Could there really be somebody bowling up there? Then Judy comes up with a bright idea. let us ask someone. Can you now guess the answer? Can you? Can you? No you can't. Tiny beans dropping down on our metal. andc you thought it was somone bowling. Bob
Friday, July 9, 2010
Sadness and Joy
Our last day. It was less strenuous this year because we worked 8-12:30 only and did notn come back 4 times a week for the Peace and Justice club. So, less tired. I will miss these kids dreadfully. I feel Iv gotten to know then very well in this little time. We had a small party for the kids,who sit in rapt silence, as goodies are distributed.Almost painful to watch, as we know why.They are hungry. We also brought in small treats for the teacher recess. So ,make what you will of this: I did NOT attend a meeting of the Young Socialist Club, headed by Nyka G., because I represent the literacy project, and in a sense L.O.V.E.I wanted badly to go. They meet Sundays at 6:30. We were there, nodded, and left as G and friends came in.. Then, today, there were many prayers, thanking the 2 teachas from Canada , when , on an impiulse I taught the 45 assemled children and 2 teachers " ,Baruch atta Adonai, Elohainu Malech Ha Olam, ha Motzi lechem min ha arets" Joyce says she will review this prayer with them... We have seen big changes in the children. Mutebe Julius is now very controllable and learning! Charles is speedy. Asaba learns. Shamim is smart. Teddy is stolid and curious. I hope the videos that James took come out! Goodbye wond a ful St. Hentry's and TNP! Tomorrow we will pack and then go to enjoy the pool at La Forest,nearby. Sunday, off to Zanzibar , a film festival, and beaches. TNP is a WONDERFUL project.!! Support us! J
The final day
After we met the children for the last time both of us felt very sad. Such nice kids. So very cute. We had two parties: one for the teachers,one for the students Our students,and the other students from the kindergarden Our students got cereal,popcorn,dried dates so did the other students. Images of Uganda: hardworking people(passing by restaurant door before seven A.M bound for work,the woman at the hotel hard at work on the restaurant floor at 6:30 A.M.).; People of Kampala not standing for any wrong. They will beat-up those they feel have done wrong from thievery to murder(Hannah who lives here has seen mobs attack thieves,has been told of drivers of motorcycles,cars fleeing accidents because they are fearful of the vengeance of mobs.) Nice people,friendly,polite. Now its off to Zanzibar. See you people soon.
Bob
Bob
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Almost Over!!!
If you stood motionless, even on a quiet road, within 3 hours your clothes and body would be covered with red dust.If you are careful, you are never truly clean, as after a shower you put on deet, to add a step against Malaria. Molly, at school, got Malaria. So did a doctor friend of Roz Labow's.... We are careful: bottled water,only cooked vegetables, and fruit one can peel.So far, so good. Tomorrow is our last day! Bob was upset today when the teacher left the children to their own devices while she and i tried to figure out words to a lovely Raffi song. The kids are taking exams! Imagine! We can use samples in our JGH nursery and kdg. I did 90% of the teaching today. It went well, and altogether Im very pleased at how our time has gone. I learned from the experience of the 2 previous volunteers, Ellen and Doreen. By the way, some In Need home kids, now sponsored, were CHEERING when they heard HOW AHD is coming next. TO ALL TEACHERS and OT s etc: for the experience of your life, work with us in Namuwongo! J
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
tid and bits
Whew, ya gotta live with it.ya gotta ....Its been one half hour and Ive gotten this far. Here are some tids and bits: is someone sponsoring Pamela? wHO? Next: Gaby , we used your lovely Bingo cards. We had to cover the number combinations past ten, and the new concept was very hard, but i do believe Joyce will continue with this!Later. I introduced the balance with concepts of heavier, lighter, equal....moved on to equalities with bottle caps. This is for Linda shecter...they were using YOUR parquetry designs, pegboards, blocks, saved from the garbage by our present kdg teacher who knew I could use ALL. And the children were loving every minute.It gives me the shivers. At supper( yoghurt, an apple, and 3 cookies) spoke with a young Belgian girl staying with an African family, disturbed by their display of wealth. For lunch, lest you consider us deprived, we shlep on the beautiful path, as described by Bob, but then eat at an Indian restaurant, giving us a break before the rest of the hill. Hearing of your weather, i am happy to be inIUganda,where it is a balmy 30 degrees.Bob is nervous. Dark approaching.Bonsoir tout le monde! J
Tests
After taking our walk to the school(one of the most beautiful walks I have ever taken:away from traffic and congesti0n. Red buildings,red roadway,relatively flat,few people,how peaceful,no fear of motorcyclists steering into you thinking you are a rock) we arrived at the school. We were then told that the students were to be given a test(Judy found the test as good as any she's seen in Canada). The result: I did not teach the students subtraction. I then wrote a memo to the teacher where I pointed out how one could use the counters for subtraction,multiplication,division. At the school I took videos of the children,their teacher,and Judy dancing(pretty graceful for her age which I will not mention only pointing out that she's no longer a spring chicken). Then we returned by the same path taking some more videos. And now here I am in a very talkative internet place trying to get out of here as fast as possible
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
our Adventure Continues
one high light was Gadafi' visit. He writes a not, thanking me , mummy, for helping him continue his education. Says he wants to be an engineer. Sister Milka also slips us a note. They want to be remembered to Jessica and Melanie.. The day in our classroom went smoothly. While teacha Bob cultivates advanced maths, Im counting bottle caps with the middles and bebbies.My lessons wnt well,.... because Joyce was in the room. Without her...? It is hot Power going out daily.The children continue continue to amaze me. Met with headmaster and found a way to cut our budget thus enabling us to add 5 more children. a primary school teacher earns about 1100$US yearly... Ti aad... a good ,but fairly intense day. I love the new path to school, and look forward to tomorrow.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Miracles
Well,after another power failure which left computers malfunctioning here I am again. We went to the school a new flatter quieter more beautiful route,a faster route as well Most of my students can really add now. Tomorrow we play counting Bingo and the day after I teach subtraction
Bob
Bob
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Sunday
We were supposed to go to a pool, but its overcast, so we are moving slowly. We went to the Italian Supermarket. Bob got ice cream, and I, tea, with masala. Before continuing: the vicious rumour that Howard corrects my blogs IS A LIE!!! He corrects my SPELLING< only!!!Anyway, we met 2 people who had finished a stint in CONGO. He was there for 3 months, a logicien, from France, and she, a nurse from the midwest.They had been with Medecins Sans Frontier......wow.They are having de briefing in Geneva. Thats all for today. Bob will work on Moishe's math problem....
Saturday, July 3, 2010
The Rest
Today we rested like God.i.e, if He is Jewish. After an exhausting Friday where my students,tired of doing addition began to trade the counters or simply take ones from others, we today took it easy,spending our time at an African art gallery where we bought a couple of paintings. How I love African art. In the morning we bought necklaces for Canadians, Well,Moish, I can only say that my students can probably add better than you. Lets see you add 5 million,seven hundred and fifty thousand,l nine hundred and sixty-seven, five trillion sixty-five billion,nine million seven hundred thousand twenty nine in five seconds. You still haven't gotten it? And I did not even give you one of the additions my students were able to work out. Suppose you now were asked to add five and one,what would be your answer? Huh? Huh? Huh? Huh?
Bob
Bob
Kisugu
Saturday: no work. Bob went out, the intrepid explorer, to find a more direct, shorter route to the school. He did!!!Just after he returned, triumphant, Sophia came with about 100 necklaces. I picked 60. Unfortunately, there were only smaller ones in red. Not really small, but not huge!!!After transacting business, we went to an art gallery in town, where I helped the artistic community by buying two pieces... one ,a gift, the other for me. We came back via Kisugu. You want to close your eyes, and pretend not to see ,because if you see, you weep. Judy
Friday, July 2, 2010
We had an easy day! Friday is "fre activity", and wow, when the 2 classes got together,did they ever sing and dance!!! We also met Godfrey, who we have sponsored since 2005. H is doing very He remembers Jessica and Melanie. According to his teacha he is a strong student
Doreen , another child we sponsor,is having trouble with Math. The power went out for a couple of hours,but we were back at the Kenrock, and didnt mind. Doreen and Ellen, the 2 kids that "graduated" are Yasin and Christine. There s a new baby , Teddy. We thought she was a boy. But she is a squat,chubby girl,3 years old, who watches bob and me with a discerning eye. Bob will write tomorroe. love, Judy
Doreen , another child we sponsor,is having trouble with Math. The power went out for a couple of hours,but we were back at the Kenrock, and didnt mind. Doreen and Ellen, the 2 kids that "graduated" are Yasin and Christine. There s a new baby , Teddy. We thought she was a boy. But she is a squat,chubby girl,3 years old, who watches bob and me with a discerning eye. Bob will write tomorroe. love, Judy
Thursday, July 1, 2010
A Wonderful Day
I find it almost electrifying to watch and think of this tiny literacy program. As Bob mentioned, 2 kids left today, filled with pride. Susanna and Linda have sponsored, each one child. The ones who left are the brightest of the lot. It will not be an easy jump,but Joyce had equipped them well. Bob and I each did good work today. It was brilliant (if I say so myself) to arrive prepared with lessons, ready with the equipment, work sheets etc.We met with Peter to discuss finances, and were pleased We also met with James and Molly, who were last years mentors of the Peace Club. Molly has malaria,but was working nonetheless. James is special, and I like talking to him...Last evening we had dinner with George, the son of Sophia, who runs a coop, and provides us with beads. George is articulate,bright, incisive,and the head of a small Socialist club. We turned down the invitation to meet the group. as we are here representing LOVE and our Literacy project...After work we took a "hire" downtown, to Uganda Air to get our tickets to Zanzibar. Though this is not easy work, it is overwhelmingly exciting and gratifying. Small as it is,it is a powerful tool. Thank you to family, friends and our supporters...
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Second Day The New Day
I found the old path and I feel renewed. It was further up the hill. I taught these kids how to add and most of them learned very fast. I feel very good. Then after teaching them(the older students) this we all danced and sang. We all felt good, Judy felt more than just good,she felt fantastic. Two students are going to regular school because they are sponsored. And two new ones are coming. What more do we need to make our day? Huh. Watching these students. Seeing the joy on their faces,the intensity of their interest,their hands rising, as their emotions rise,their hands like the flickering of a fire.... Can you not almost feel the heat? And where once there was only an icy coldness, now a fire,a real fire, And now two new students are coming...
Bob
Bob
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
The First Real Day
Well after flying 24 hours and trying to recover we had our first real day in Africa(somehow things seem to have altered ever so slightly. I got lost my first day. Why? ) But Africa still seems to draw me. The red roadways with the even more red "sidewalks", the houses hiding behind the walls. The slow walkers on the roadways, on all roadways oblivious to those North American rabbits racing or trying to race. Why do I so love this place? But above all those wonderful children and their wonderful teacher Joyce who are waiting for me as I finally find my way now on a relatively flat roadway(where is the Mt. Everest I used to climb) toward the school. Those kids so thrilled with the desire to learn,ready it seems to pounce on all information that comes their way. Now they sit caught up in working out their puzzles,e.g. what letter comes after c. Now they are trying to do Miss Mary Mack. I don't know what to smile more about: watching the the children laughing,smiling or seeing Judy,Joyce trying to remember --sometimes they forget--which hand to hit Tomorrow. I teach the older children how to add. I will be in further touch
first day!
It was a homecoming! With the addition of 2 tables....heaven. There were 2 groups :upper and middle, with little Teddy, a girl in lower. She is tiny. We enjoyed Joyce, the new teacher. When we went to the P1 class for porridge,the teacher wondered if Doreen and I were sisters. All the teachers were thrilled at the photos, as were the children.The kids and Joyce were eager to show off the song Ellen had taught them. It was a great first day. We basically observed. I began teaching Miss Mary Mack,and introduced the clapping that goes along. That was a hit, and will be continued. Tomorrow we will work on maths. It was far less stressful this year. We knew where we were going, the layout etc. (It will be easier for Doreen and Ellen next time!)Some of the kids we knew from last year.But seeing the In Need Home kids from 2006,now growing, and in regular class because of sponsorship... that brings tears to my eyes. The climb up the hill back, after classes, was interminable... More tomorrow J
Monday, June 28, 2010
Please dont consider this a blog. Bob will blog tomorrow... We arrived safely. Andrew was there to meet us at Entebbe, as planned.It is all very familiar....today we walked briefly down Tank Hill Rd., and saw a sign for the Diplomat....and then, Le Foret. Any comment, D or E. ?Went to the Chinese restaurant we love for eggplant yui sing.We start at school tomorrow, and are all set with lesson plans! Will I be able to handle a small group of 5? Dont be sure.I feel good to be back here. Howard,the PHONE DID NOT UNLOCK!. Had to buy new phone
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Almost 1 p m. Our plane leaves around 9:30. The next time I sit at a computer, I will be in a very different world.The internet cafe will be buzzing, and I will be upset because I cant get to where I want to be,and Bob will tell me to slow down and breathe. I find it hard to do that...there is
so much I want to accomplish while there. My main goal is to review and discuss the budget so that the coming year will go smoothly. We have material for our classroom, and are armed with lesson plans.I have been lucky enough to find 3 new sponsors,and hope Peter Okoth will help match the sponsor with the child. Of course Im anxious to meet the children Ellen and Doreen have been raving about!!When I consider all this, I continue to be amazed that the project is doing such good work. Yes, its a drop in the bucket, but so many people have added drops,we may need another bucket. Wish us a safe trip. Keep us in your thoughts. Judy
so much I want to accomplish while there. My main goal is to review and discuss the budget so that the coming year will go smoothly. We have material for our classroom, and are armed with lesson plans.I have been lucky enough to find 3 new sponsors,and hope Peter Okoth will help match the sponsor with the child. Of course Im anxious to meet the children Ellen and Doreen have been raving about!!When I consider all this, I continue to be amazed that the project is doing such good work. Yes, its a drop in the bucket, but so many people have added drops,we may need another bucket. Wish us a safe trip. Keep us in your thoughts. Judy
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Butterflies
Bob and I are leaving Montreal next week, arriving in Entebbe and then travelling by "hire" to Kampala. We're hoping that Andrew, who was a wonderful help to Ellen and Doreen, will pick us up at the airport. We'll be staying at the Kenrock. It's our fourth time in Uganda. I should be blase(this computer has no accents, so please add your own!), but Im not! I have the proverbial butterflies in my belly....Please read our blogs and add your comments! Believe me, it brings us great pleasure when we're in the crowded,hot ,internet cafes, when the computer suddenly breaks down, after a long day, to hear from you all!Despite the butterflies I look forward to meeting Joyce and the children, most of whom are new to me. Judy
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
TWO MONTHS LATER
It has been two months since we left Kampala. So much has happened in my life I feel as if my head is a whirley bird-like the propellers on a helicopter.
I am now a grandmother of two babies-a boy(Jeremy) and a girl(Sofia) born nine days apart.
Of course they are wonderful and beautiful and thankfully healthy and growing well.
But although joyous, I am not "over the moon" as someone put it.
Don't get me wrong. I adore my grandbabies and all my children ,my husband and my family and friends. But everyday I find tears dripping down my cheeks and they are not tears of joy. They are what I call Namuwongo tears.
My grand babies were born here in Canada. Neither birth was totally simple. I ask myself what would have happened in the shanty town of Namuwongo. Almost 50% of delivering mothers and their babies die in Africa. If they survive, such an enormous proportion of them live in the squaller, sadness and disease. One of the young men working at our hotel told us Namuwongo was a soft slum. " you don't want to see the others" he said.
So I cry softly at the miracle that Jeremy and Sofia were born in one of the best countries in the world to marvelous parents with overflowing love in their hearts and higher educations. Both these babies are already way ahead of most of the others born on their birthdays around the world.
I love you Jeremy and Sofia.
But the tears still flow for the children of Namuwongo.
Ellen Bacal Segal
I am now a grandmother of two babies-a boy(Jeremy) and a girl(Sofia) born nine days apart.
Of course they are wonderful and beautiful and thankfully healthy and growing well.
But although joyous, I am not "over the moon" as someone put it.
Don't get me wrong. I adore my grandbabies and all my children ,my husband and my family and friends. But everyday I find tears dripping down my cheeks and they are not tears of joy. They are what I call Namuwongo tears.
My grand babies were born here in Canada. Neither birth was totally simple. I ask myself what would have happened in the shanty town of Namuwongo. Almost 50% of delivering mothers and their babies die in Africa. If they survive, such an enormous proportion of them live in the squaller, sadness and disease. One of the young men working at our hotel told us Namuwongo was a soft slum. " you don't want to see the others" he said.
So I cry softly at the miracle that Jeremy and Sofia were born in one of the best countries in the world to marvelous parents with overflowing love in their hearts and higher educations. Both these babies are already way ahead of most of the others born on their birthdays around the world.
I love you Jeremy and Sofia.
But the tears still flow for the children of Namuwongo.
Ellen Bacal Segal
Thursday, March 11, 2010
FOR THE CHILDREN ,TURN THE WORLD AROUND
March 11, 2010.
I think about this past month and it's all jumbled together; faces, people, experiences. I feel so full and so alive. The tears are leaking out of me as there is no place inside for any more emotions.
Photos of the zebras of M'Bruru flit through my mind like a silent movie. The shacks of Namuwongo overlapping with the Monyonyo Commonwealth Resort. The contrasts are neverending. Uganda , a land of opposites, the land of the have and the have-nots. Like the smiling and crying masks of the theatre.
Ellen of Africa has gone home to Canada , to the land of non- frizz hair and Starbuck's banana smoothies, leaving her mark here on the children ,on me. I have journeyed on to Israel and even as I walk along the dunes beside the Mediterranean Sea, I speak of nothing but the children.
I see Michael, always eager to help, his shoes caked with mud and his skinny legs covered with scrapes.
Doreen, who's "Uh, uh" at times say more then any words as do her beautiful brown eyes.
Christine, who's clothes are rags but she wears them as if they were silk and fur.
Julian, whose demons darken his eyes as the morning progresses.
There is Hillary, with the accent on the second sylable of his name. His pink jacket confuses us until he demonstrates his left hook and we are reminded again that he is a boy.
I see Charles with his brilliant smile lighting up the room during the power outages.
Then there is Gloria who is the bossiest and feistiest girl from all the boys. She has the intention to break away from her Namuwongo heritage and I am certain that she will.
Provia, whose beaming face and an arch of an eyebrow were her main forms of communication. We need to find her a sponser to be in P2 because even sick, she was able to complete everything perfectly before we even finished explaining it.
Shamim always trying to keep up with her sister, Provia's example and successfully setting her own high standard. Both of them living with therecent loss of their father.
Daniel with his new shoes and his new found voice, who is slowly breaking through his fog of pain.
Maureen, so proud of her gold earings, so obsessed with the scab on her forehead and the moles on my arm.
Jacob determined and focused on getting his "s" to go in the right direction, doing brilliantly after only a few weeks back from break. His mind set on not to be outdone by the new girls.
Hussein, fitting in, making new friends, playing and running despite the fact that his oversized rubber sandles probably belonged to his dead father.
Isma, Mohammed striving to copy his letters and finding a smile despite his hollow belly. Rainy days often meant that porridge was late or didn't happen at all and this was particularly hard on these two brothers.
The courage and the spirit of these wonderful children is something we can all learn from.
I can still see their faces before me. I can still feel their arms around me. I can still hear their voices, mingled with that of Teacha Joyce.
"Hello, hello."
"Hey, hey."
"Where are you?"
"I am heya."
" Are you fah?"
" Not to far."
" Come and play."
"Not today."
"Then when?"
' Another day."
With love and gratitude, Doreen
I think about this past month and it's all jumbled together; faces, people, experiences. I feel so full and so alive. The tears are leaking out of me as there is no place inside for any more emotions.
Photos of the zebras of M'Bruru flit through my mind like a silent movie. The shacks of Namuwongo overlapping with the Monyonyo Commonwealth Resort. The contrasts are neverending. Uganda , a land of opposites, the land of the have and the have-nots. Like the smiling and crying masks of the theatre.
Ellen of Africa has gone home to Canada , to the land of non- frizz hair and Starbuck's banana smoothies, leaving her mark here on the children ,on me. I have journeyed on to Israel and even as I walk along the dunes beside the Mediterranean Sea, I speak of nothing but the children.
I see Michael, always eager to help, his shoes caked with mud and his skinny legs covered with scrapes.
Doreen, who's "Uh, uh" at times say more then any words as do her beautiful brown eyes.
Christine, who's clothes are rags but she wears them as if they were silk and fur.
Julian, whose demons darken his eyes as the morning progresses.
There is Hillary, with the accent on the second sylable of his name. His pink jacket confuses us until he demonstrates his left hook and we are reminded again that he is a boy.
I see Charles with his brilliant smile lighting up the room during the power outages.
Then there is Gloria who is the bossiest and feistiest girl from all the boys. She has the intention to break away from her Namuwongo heritage and I am certain that she will.
Provia, whose beaming face and an arch of an eyebrow were her main forms of communication. We need to find her a sponser to be in P2 because even sick, she was able to complete everything perfectly before we even finished explaining it.
Shamim always trying to keep up with her sister, Provia's example and successfully setting her own high standard. Both of them living with therecent loss of their father.
Daniel with his new shoes and his new found voice, who is slowly breaking through his fog of pain.
Maureen, so proud of her gold earings, so obsessed with the scab on her forehead and the moles on my arm.
Jacob determined and focused on getting his "s" to go in the right direction, doing brilliantly after only a few weeks back from break. His mind set on not to be outdone by the new girls.
Hussein, fitting in, making new friends, playing and running despite the fact that his oversized rubber sandles probably belonged to his dead father.
Isma, Mohammed striving to copy his letters and finding a smile despite his hollow belly. Rainy days often meant that porridge was late or didn't happen at all and this was particularly hard on these two brothers.
The courage and the spirit of these wonderful children is something we can all learn from.
I can still see their faces before me. I can still feel their arms around me. I can still hear their voices, mingled with that of Teacha Joyce.
"Hello, hello."
"Hey, hey."
"Where are you?"
"I am heya."
" Are you fah?"
" Not to far."
" Come and play."
"Not today."
"Then when?"
' Another day."
With love and gratitude, Doreen
Thursday, March 4, 2010
PARTEE
Party, party, party, What a morning it was. Teacher Joyche made decorations and arranged to have all the children from pre-primary join us. Tables and benches were carried down the hill. The children sat silently and motionless(40 of them) waiting. The Headmaster gave a little speech and danced, the VP. danced with her daughter. Then we-the teachers danced. All to the wonderous music of Raffi. The children sat very still. When we took photos they smiled.
Then we served them the banana pancakes and juice Doreen and I had arranged for. The children were exceptionally polite. Then they came to us one at a time to say thank-you. We didn't cry!
Then they were let loose and boy oh boy did those kids have a great time dancing and jumping with us. It was a fabulous party.
Before the party Headmaster, Mr. Ocoth, gave us each a letter of gratitude and a gift of beautiful beaded flipflops. Tears filled our eyes. For me it was most difficult to say good bye to all the teachers we had grown to appreciate. Each of them wanted to know when we would be back. A very difficult question to answer.
My photos holds the story of the courageous children of the Namuwongo slum. My soul will always hold the feelings and special memories of this amazing month. I will never forget, I will never regret.
This is Ellen of Africa signing off with love.
Then we served them the banana pancakes and juice Doreen and I had arranged for. The children were exceptionally polite. Then they came to us one at a time to say thank-you. We didn't cry!
Then they were let loose and boy oh boy did those kids have a great time dancing and jumping with us. It was a fabulous party.
Before the party Headmaster, Mr. Ocoth, gave us each a letter of gratitude and a gift of beautiful beaded flipflops. Tears filled our eyes. For me it was most difficult to say good bye to all the teachers we had grown to appreciate. Each of them wanted to know when we would be back. A very difficult question to answer.
My photos holds the story of the courageous children of the Namuwongo slum. My soul will always hold the feelings and special memories of this amazing month. I will never forget, I will never regret.
This is Ellen of Africa signing off with love.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
TAKING PICTURES WITH MY HEART
March 3,2010.
One more day until we say goodbye.
I walk around savoring each smell, each sound and each emotion. The morning starts with the chanting of the alphabet and the accompanying games all to encourage learning. The room is filled with joy as we work our way towards break. There is porridge today so the children are recharged and eager to return to work as we move into the numbers section of the day. Christine and Provia , two of our newest students, are given their own math workbooks, courtesy of the photocopier. They are thrilled and breeze through their first page. The pride on their faces is worth all the frustrating bargaining that transpired in order to settle on a fair price.
We all pile out into the "yard" to capture a group photo for our pen pals in Canada. Teacha Joyce gets them into an organized group, her national pride as fervent as that of the Canadian Hockey Team. In order to loosen them of their serious posture, I sing them a verse of Teacha Ellen's "Hockey Pockey". I capture their laughter as it erupts on film.
I see everything with such clarity, as if it is happening in slow motion. I watch the chickens cross the road, hear all the greetings from the children passing by, and feel all the appreciation through the hugs and handshakes given by the staff . Each time someone murmurs ,"I'll miss you," tears spring to my eyes.
I am full;full of love, gratitude and sadness.
I am taking pictures with my heart.
Entry by Doreen Horen
One more day until we say goodbye.
I walk around savoring each smell, each sound and each emotion. The morning starts with the chanting of the alphabet and the accompanying games all to encourage learning. The room is filled with joy as we work our way towards break. There is porridge today so the children are recharged and eager to return to work as we move into the numbers section of the day. Christine and Provia , two of our newest students, are given their own math workbooks, courtesy of the photocopier. They are thrilled and breeze through their first page. The pride on their faces is worth all the frustrating bargaining that transpired in order to settle on a fair price.
We all pile out into the "yard" to capture a group photo for our pen pals in Canada. Teacha Joyce gets them into an organized group, her national pride as fervent as that of the Canadian Hockey Team. In order to loosen them of their serious posture, I sing them a verse of Teacha Ellen's "Hockey Pockey". I capture their laughter as it erupts on film.
I see everything with such clarity, as if it is happening in slow motion. I watch the chickens cross the road, hear all the greetings from the children passing by, and feel all the appreciation through the hugs and handshakes given by the staff . Each time someone murmurs ,"I'll miss you," tears spring to my eyes.
I am full;full of love, gratitude and sadness.
I am taking pictures with my heart.
Entry by Doreen Horen
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
AND SO.....
And so we begin our final days here at St Henry's School Muyenga with the children of The NLP. My emotions are about as controlable as a room full of bouncing ping pong balls. I am on the edge of tears when Mohamed with quivering lip whispers "porridge" to me. The rain has meant no fire and therefore no porridge and I know this little boy and his brother, another of our students, may do not have food at home. I ask Joyce not to let them go home until they are given lunch, which will be late because of the rain. Why doesn't the weather understand that our children do not carry snacks in backpacks? Cloudy is fine, downpours shift the universe.
Their english is improving everyday, their ability to focus is great (most of the time). Their academic progress has been grand considering that Joyce has only been in the classroom for 3 weeks.
And me? Well I have begun to have more trouble than usual sleeping. Last night I dreamed I was adopting two 2yr olds from Namuwongo. I miss home and my family very much but I don't know how to say good-bye to these children who have had so many losses in their lives. Have they built up some barrier to departures? Do they have attachments to us or do the realize we are only here for a short time. The teachers say they themselves will miss us. I fight tears. A former student in High School died from malaria on the week-end. I fight tears. The dead goat. I fight tears. I phone one of my daughters-in-law and I fight tears. How will Doreen and I leave the school grounds and get back to the hotel on the last day when we will both be blinded by tears.
"For everything there is a season under heaven"
Ellen of Africa
Their english is improving everyday, their ability to focus is great (most of the time). Their academic progress has been grand considering that Joyce has only been in the classroom for 3 weeks.
And me? Well I have begun to have more trouble than usual sleeping. Last night I dreamed I was adopting two 2yr olds from Namuwongo. I miss home and my family very much but I don't know how to say good-bye to these children who have had so many losses in their lives. Have they built up some barrier to departures? Do they have attachments to us or do the realize we are only here for a short time. The teachers say they themselves will miss us. I fight tears. A former student in High School died from malaria on the week-end. I fight tears. The dead goat. I fight tears. I phone one of my daughters-in-law and I fight tears. How will Doreen and I leave the school grounds and get back to the hotel on the last day when we will both be blinded by tears.
"For everything there is a season under heaven"
Ellen of Africa
Monday, March 1, 2010
JUST ANOTHER MONDAY MORNING
March 1, 2010.
Too much rain causing rivers of orange mud. A dead baby goat in the middle of the road hit by a negligent car or boda boda. The porridge late because of soaked firewood. The children hungry and complaining of empty bellies. Yet,we're still dancing and singing round the room to Raffi's "Banana phone".
"What's a banana phone?" asks Teacha Joyce. I'm not sure what Ellen tells her. I'm glad it' s not me.
We've arranged with Mary, Michael's grandmother , to make us 8o of her special banana pancakes for our parting celebration on Thursday. I am crying already, though I promised Ellen to try and wait until the walk home after school.
The penpal letters are finished , complete with drawings and accompanying photos. Relationships have been ,only to be broken. It's difficult being in the moment when there are only 3 days left to teach, to learn.
The children's faces and the lessons learned will linger ,slowly becoming woven into the fabric of who I am , who I am becoming.
Entry by Doreen on March 1, 2010.
Too much rain causing rivers of orange mud. A dead baby goat in the middle of the road hit by a negligent car or boda boda. The porridge late because of soaked firewood. The children hungry and complaining of empty bellies. Yet,we're still dancing and singing round the room to Raffi's "Banana phone".
"What's a banana phone?" asks Teacha Joyce. I'm not sure what Ellen tells her. I'm glad it' s not me.
We've arranged with Mary, Michael's grandmother , to make us 8o of her special banana pancakes for our parting celebration on Thursday. I am crying already, though I promised Ellen to try and wait until the walk home after school.
The penpal letters are finished , complete with drawings and accompanying photos. Relationships have been ,only to be broken. It's difficult being in the moment when there are only 3 days left to teach, to learn.
The children's faces and the lessons learned will linger ,slowly becoming woven into the fabric of who I am , who I am becoming.
Entry by Doreen on March 1, 2010.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
AND......
Another wonderful school day with the beautiful children. It has become a custom now for the children (all of them) to rush to us and overwhelm us with hugs when we arrive in the morning. It is so warm and wonderful and something I think we will always remember.
Everything is going along smoothly. Joyce seems to know exactly her goals for the children. We put up 2 new leaves on the tree today, one for Provia and one for Christine. The new girls are running circles around the boys, who worked very hard and were not very silly at all today. In the face of the sweet new girls they are really trying hard.
Then there was rain. BUT not just regular rain. This was a torrential downpour, complete with black sky and mud running down hills like fast moving rivers. Unbelieveable. Nobody seemed the least put out by this except me. In the darkened classroom (no electricity) the children continued to do their writing. They even ventured out to the bathroom and didn't look the least bit wet when they returned-amazing. As I write now it continues to rain but lighter than when it began about 3 hours ago. NOTE: my research on-line said quite clearly that Feb. was a Dry month. It has been raining every second day and I have another weather migraine. I'm sueing Google.
As ever,
Ellen of Africa
Everything is going along smoothly. Joyce seems to know exactly her goals for the children. We put up 2 new leaves on the tree today, one for Provia and one for Christine. The new girls are running circles around the boys, who worked very hard and were not very silly at all today. In the face of the sweet new girls they are really trying hard.
Then there was rain. BUT not just regular rain. This was a torrential downpour, complete with black sky and mud running down hills like fast moving rivers. Unbelieveable. Nobody seemed the least put out by this except me. In the darkened classroom (no electricity) the children continued to do their writing. They even ventured out to the bathroom and didn't look the least bit wet when they returned-amazing. As I write now it continues to rain but lighter than when it began about 3 hours ago. NOTE: my research on-line said quite clearly that Feb. was a Dry month. It has been raining every second day and I have another weather migraine. I'm sueing Google.
As ever,
Ellen of Africa
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
It's Days Like This ....
Feb.24, 2010.
What a special greeting this morning. Accompanying the usual "Good morning Teacha Doreen " was a group hug, filled with loving energy and smiles. What an incredible way to start the day.
All sorts of posters are up around the classroom. There are those with letters , numbers and various words . Even Judy's tree of kindness has been resurrected to encourage the children to commit acts of kindness to each other. The children are lapping it up as if it was all a sweet treat and the focus and motivation this morning was quite high. So exciting. Some of the new students are raising the bar in the classroom challenging the others to work even harder. They are so beautiful with their faces bathed in smiles of pride.
We are even managing to individualize some of the lessons according to the various levels. This is quite a breakthrough as well.
The porridge was almost on time today and there was out door play time as the mud had dried up somewhat from Sunday's downpour. We reconvened with a story by Mercer Mayor called "I Was So Mad", a precursor to introducing the tree of kindness. The children loved it so much that they immediately chorused, "Again please " the moment I stopped. Now how is that for a universal reaction?
The rest of the morning was spent learning about Canada as Teacha Joyce and myself introduced the pen pal letters I had brought from a grade two class in Terry Fox Elementary. Thank you Ms.Roberta. The students were over the top with excitement. They were so amazed about the skating on ice. Luckily I had some photographs, courtesy of my son Daniel, in my camera to show them just that. We started the responses to the letters and all went well. It was a wonderful day! It's days like this that keep you coming back for more.
Blog entry by Doreen
What a special greeting this morning. Accompanying the usual "Good morning Teacha Doreen " was a group hug, filled with loving energy and smiles. What an incredible way to start the day.
All sorts of posters are up around the classroom. There are those with letters , numbers and various words . Even Judy's tree of kindness has been resurrected to encourage the children to commit acts of kindness to each other. The children are lapping it up as if it was all a sweet treat and the focus and motivation this morning was quite high. So exciting. Some of the new students are raising the bar in the classroom challenging the others to work even harder. They are so beautiful with their faces bathed in smiles of pride.
We are even managing to individualize some of the lessons according to the various levels. This is quite a breakthrough as well.
The porridge was almost on time today and there was out door play time as the mud had dried up somewhat from Sunday's downpour. We reconvened with a story by Mercer Mayor called "I Was So Mad", a precursor to introducing the tree of kindness. The children loved it so much that they immediately chorused, "Again please " the moment I stopped. Now how is that for a universal reaction?
The rest of the morning was spent learning about Canada as Teacha Joyce and myself introduced the pen pal letters I had brought from a grade two class in Terry Fox Elementary. Thank you Ms.Roberta. The students were over the top with excitement. They were so amazed about the skating on ice. Luckily I had some photographs, courtesy of my son Daniel, in my camera to show them just that. We started the responses to the letters and all went well. It was a wonderful day! It's days like this that keep you coming back for more.
Blog entry by Doreen
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
BACK IN THE SADDLE
After being away for a long week-end to explore some of the beauty of Uganda, Doreen and I returned to class this morning. Great joy, big hugs all around and a feeling of love. I for one was very pleased to see them all again, especially our new pupils that we chose on Thursday.
Most important Teacha JoYce was back full of health, energy and creativity. I wanted to know if the children had asked about us. "No" she replied. I realized we had never told them we were leaving for a few days- a nasty omission considering how many loved ones (like mothers) have disappeared on them in their young lives. I felt really badly.
However it was a good morning even if porridge was late and the children became a bit wrangy around lunch time. You know the drill-under the table over the table, out the door, behind the door. They needed to eat and play.
I was happy to have successfully read them a story and accomplished a song with them- awhole 25 min.
I was back in the saddle again.
Ellen of Africa
Most important Teacha JoYce was back full of health, energy and creativity. I wanted to know if the children had asked about us. "No" she replied. I realized we had never told them we were leaving for a few days- a nasty omission considering how many loved ones (like mothers) have disappeared on them in their young lives. I felt really badly.
However it was a good morning even if porridge was late and the children became a bit wrangy around lunch time. You know the drill-under the table over the table, out the door, behind the door. They needed to eat and play.
I was happy to have successfully read them a story and accomplished a song with them- awhole 25 min.
I was back in the saddle again.
Ellen of Africa
Thursday, February 18, 2010
ONE STARFISH AT A TIME
Feb.18,2010.
Today Ellen and I, along with Mr. Okoth, the headmaster of St. Henry's Primary school, went down to Namuwongo. Namuwongo is a shanty town on the outskirts of Kampala of approximately 500,000 people who have come from various areas affected by wars,such as Rwanda, Burundi, the Congo, Southern Sudan and Northern Uganda. Our mission was to choose six children to be part of our project. Six children to be chosen out of 150,000. Before we got past the railroad tracks, we were approached by clusters of children. They seemed to know why we've come. One little girl took my hand, a smile on her face.Flies were swarming around and landing everywhere but none of the children seemed to notice. They were focused on being picked to go to school. They had to meet two very important criteria; one was that they have only one parent or none, and the other that they have a guardian who would make sure that they would make it to school daily. We met the parent or guardian of each child and went to see where they lived. Then we all went back to the school for interviews, informal testing and registration. They all wanted to come. I am so touched and impressed that these people who suffer so much put so much importance on education.
At the end of the day, I am filled with sadness that we could not do more. There are so many.. I took no pictures but I will never forget what I have seen today. And in the end I have come to realize that we did not choose the children, they chose us. Or perhaps it is as Mr. Okoth says. "God has chosen them."
Doreen
Today Ellen and I, along with Mr. Okoth, the headmaster of St. Henry's Primary school, went down to Namuwongo. Namuwongo is a shanty town on the outskirts of Kampala of approximately 500,000 people who have come from various areas affected by wars,such as Rwanda, Burundi, the Congo, Southern Sudan and Northern Uganda. Our mission was to choose six children to be part of our project. Six children to be chosen out of 150,000. Before we got past the railroad tracks, we were approached by clusters of children. They seemed to know why we've come. One little girl took my hand, a smile on her face.Flies were swarming around and landing everywhere but none of the children seemed to notice. They were focused on being picked to go to school. They had to meet two very important criteria; one was that they have only one parent or none, and the other that they have a guardian who would make sure that they would make it to school daily. We met the parent or guardian of each child and went to see where they lived. Then we all went back to the school for interviews, informal testing and registration. They all wanted to come. I am so touched and impressed that these people who suffer so much put so much importance on education.
At the end of the day, I am filled with sadness that we could not do more. There are so many.. I took no pictures but I will never forget what I have seen today. And in the end I have come to realize that we did not choose the children, they chose us. Or perhaps it is as Mr. Okoth says. "God has chosen them."
Doreen
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
CHAOS
So Teacha Joyce is still home recovering from malaria. I recovered from my food difficulty but it rained-like I have never seen before- for most of the night so I woke with a migraine. I don't understand , Google says it is supposed to be dry in Uganda during February. Google lied. I decided to come to school anyways as an extra adult body surely I would be useful. Ha!!!!! Doreen and I have absolutely NO credibility with the children. We were all in Teacha Sara's class which probably numbered close to 30 children under 6. Seating space is limited so the children are sitting cheek to cheek, all the better to push, pinch, grab and do anything to make your neighbor cry. We tried to get some number work done, with the children copying from the board into their notebooks. Ha!!!!!
I don't even know how to describe the chaos other than to say the children behaved like children. Some stuff is developmentally universal. Finally we got them singing and dancing Yeh. But Sara was called to a staff meeting, the porridge was 1hr. late the children were hungry, tired and very cranky. One little girl's crying began to sound like a mantra, some were covering their ears against the din, most were running around causing trouble, I was guarding the door looking for the porridge and Doreen had fallen onto a chair.
What I found very interesting was that at one point they all sat down. Some children had brought their own snacks and had gone to their bags to get them. All those with food shared with their friends. What a wonderful sight. The peace didn't last long , but while it did it was heavenly.
I haven't lost hope yet.
Ellen of Africa
I don't even know how to describe the chaos other than to say the children behaved like children. Some stuff is developmentally universal. Finally we got them singing and dancing Yeh. But Sara was called to a staff meeting, the porridge was 1hr. late the children were hungry, tired and very cranky. One little girl's crying began to sound like a mantra, some were covering their ears against the din, most were running around causing trouble, I was guarding the door looking for the porridge and Doreen had fallen onto a chair.
What I found very interesting was that at one point they all sat down. Some children had brought their own snacks and had gone to their bags to get them. All those with food shared with their friends. What a wonderful sight. The peace didn't last long , but while it did it was heavenly.
I haven't lost hope yet.
Ellen of Africa
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
RAIN, RAIN, GO AWAY
Feb.16,2010.
Today had all the ingredients of disaster. Poor "teacha" Joyce was sick with malaria and had to go home to rest. Poor "teacha" Ellen was home sick due to some adverse effects from last night's Indian food ,and poor "teacha" Doreen was the substitute for the large part of the day. I was seriously considering faking malaria symptoms so I too ,could go home to my bed. As with all children and a substitute teacher, they tested me to the limits. Julius was busy "beating on his friends". Jacobi was grabbing things out of the garbage and throwing it at the others.Charles was on the table, and Michael was under the table,while little Hillary was literally hanging off the the wall. The others divided their time between crying or simply being stunned by all this activity. I prayed for porridge time so they could run off this excess energy and it started to pour. Someone's laughing at me. It's not even rainy season.
The headmaster took pity on me and combined classes with the group we share PE with. Phew, some relief.
Today had all the ingredients of disaster. Poor "teacha" Joyce was sick with malaria and had to go home to rest. Poor "teacha" Ellen was home sick due to some adverse effects from last night's Indian food ,and poor "teacha" Doreen was the substitute for the large part of the day. I was seriously considering faking malaria symptoms so I too ,could go home to my bed. As with all children and a substitute teacher, they tested me to the limits. Julius was busy "beating on his friends". Jacobi was grabbing things out of the garbage and throwing it at the others.Charles was on the table, and Michael was under the table,while little Hillary was literally hanging off the the wall. The others divided their time between crying or simply being stunned by all this activity. I prayed for porridge time so they could run off this excess energy and it started to pour. Someone's laughing at me. It's not even rainy season.
The headmaster took pity on me and combined classes with the group we share PE with. Phew, some relief.
Monday, February 15, 2010
WATCH OUT FOR THE COWS.
Feb. 15, 2010.
Picture a city of over 7,000, 0000 people having what seems like 10,000,000 cars and ONE traffic light. That's Kampala. There we were, one afternoon last week, sitting in traffic with nowhere to g, when all of a sudden, a herd of long horn cattle came running through the turn about. They were on their way to slaughter.
Today in class, Ellen and I empathized with those cows. Joyce, the class' teacher was extremely sick, we suspect with malaria. The children took advantage of the situation just like kids anywhere and we lost control. It was an endless day.
Doreen
Friday, February 12, 2010
SONGS: THE UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE
Feb. 12, 2010.
We start the day out in the yard. Every Monday and Friday they hold parades at St. Henry's Primary School. This is how an assembly is referred to, a parade.. a much more fitting term as it is a joyous celebration with ongoing movement. A half hour later, we head to the classroom, bathed in sweat.
A multitude of lessons, printing, numbers, stories and then it's time for porridge and break time. The children play with makeshift balls made out of garbage. They play soccer, creative and full of laughter.
I take this opportunity to make the acquaintance of one of my student's father. Michael is a little boy in our class. Bright and full of motivation to learn. He is quite promising with his ready smile and his eager attitude. He lives on the school grounds in a double shack with his father, grandmother,stepmother and brand- new, half sister. His birth mother left after the death of his natural sister. His home is located beside the teachers' bathrooms.
I introduce myself and tell him how special his son is. He does not care.
Back to class, for art lesson. First we draw and then incorporate play dough into the lesson. The children love the play dough and we constantly need to remind some not to eat it. The morning ends with some tunes from Raffi. Picture the children marching around and dancing to "Banaphone" . Children, who have lost parents and siblings to AIDS or the war in Northern Uganda. All is forgotten, as we sing together in harmony.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
I HATE PE
The morning began with thunder over Lake Victoria, a threat of rain that didn't materialize. The day opened to magnificent sunshine and a lovely breeze.
Although we arrived at school earlier today the children were already seated and playing with many of the new materials we have brought. I took the opportunity to visit with the class of the deaf girl in P1 who I will work with each day for a 1/2 hr. Monika class s at PE I was told and directed o the outdoor field where PE is held.
You might imagine an area equipped with jungle gyms, swing sets balls, hoops etc. AND you would be wrong!
There s a field of packed earth, children, and 2 Teachas. That's it.
Two amazing teachers leading the children in a most vigorous aerobic workout of group games, some of which resembled capture the flag and tug of war. The children laughed and ran and played and clapped. I clapped too.
After PE I tutored successfully tutored Monika., then returned to my class to dis cover it was time for PE. I couldn't believe it. So we returned to the field, to the game with the hot African sun above us. No more breeze. everybody except one of us was joyous.
You know when I was at school I had the physique of an athletic child but actually I was terrible.
And it still shows because I still hate PE!!!!
Until the next time I remain
Ellen of Africa
Although we arrived at school earlier today the children were already seated and playing with many of the new materials we have brought. I took the opportunity to visit with the class of the deaf girl in P1 who I will work with each day for a 1/2 hr. Monika class s at PE I was told and directed o the outdoor field where PE is held.
You might imagine an area equipped with jungle gyms, swing sets balls, hoops etc. AND you would be wrong!
There s a field of packed earth, children, and 2 Teachas. That's it.
Two amazing teachers leading the children in a most vigorous aerobic workout of group games, some of which resembled capture the flag and tug of war. The children laughed and ran and played and clapped. I clapped too.
After PE I tutored successfully tutored Monika., then returned to my class to dis cover it was time for PE. I couldn't believe it. So we returned to the field, to the game with the hot African sun above us. No more breeze. everybody except one of us was joyous.
You know when I was at school I had the physique of an athletic child but actually I was terrible.
And it still shows because I still hate PE!!!!
Until the next time I remain
Ellen of Africa
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
I Have Arrived
Feb.10,2010.
It was a glorious morning, sun shining and no mud puddles to decoratively splash the back of my legs. There is always a chorus of "Good morning , Mazungo" from the children on the way to accompany me on my walk. I was almost at the top of the red clay dirt road, close enough to hear the children's' voices , when I felt the warmth of two little hands slip into mine.
"Good morning Teacha," two little smiling faces chimed. With that, we all rushed up the hill to class to start our day.
I had arrived.
Two more children showed up today, Julius and Doreen. Still sick,with flowing noses and booming coughs. Our day was filled with printing lessons, where we incorporated the peg boards I brought . The children are fascinated by every new thing but their favorite is the children's literature. Each chance they get they gravitate towards the books. Hillary can sit forever "reading" his book upside down. He's three! Julian on the other hand needed a little couching in the care of books as he didn't know how to turn a page. Now every time he turns a page , he says,"gently". I have no idea where he got that from.
We had PE in the sun at 9:00 and laughed and ran and danced. The children who are not in school but are from the surrounding areas, watched with envy tinged with sadness. I too watched them with sadness , wanting to include them all in our games.
More math after playtime and to relieve some of the "sillys" we danced and sang to Raffi.
Wonderful day, life is good.
Doreen
It was a glorious morning, sun shining and no mud puddles to decoratively splash the back of my legs. There is always a chorus of "Good morning , Mazungo" from the children on the way to accompany me on my walk. I was almost at the top of the red clay dirt road, close enough to hear the children's' voices , when I felt the warmth of two little hands slip into mine.
"Good morning Teacha," two little smiling faces chimed. With that, we all rushed up the hill to class to start our day.
I had arrived.
Two more children showed up today, Julius and Doreen. Still sick,with flowing noses and booming coughs. Our day was filled with printing lessons, where we incorporated the peg boards I brought . The children are fascinated by every new thing but their favorite is the children's literature. Each chance they get they gravitate towards the books. Hillary can sit forever "reading" his book upside down. He's three! Julian on the other hand needed a little couching in the care of books as he didn't know how to turn a page. Now every time he turns a page , he says,"gently". I have no idea where he got that from.
We had PE in the sun at 9:00 and laughed and ran and danced. The children who are not in school but are from the surrounding areas, watched with envy tinged with sadness. I too watched them with sadness , wanting to include them all in our games.
More math after playtime and to relieve some of the "sillys" we danced and sang to Raffi.
Wonderful day, life is good.
Doreen
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
AND THEY LAUGHED
Day 2 at school. Daniel was away sick. Actually we were greeted by his illness when he vomited twice yesterday morning. Poor little guy. So there were only 5 children-4 boys and 1 girl-and three teachers. Great ratio. I find the children to be quite advanced in their academic level. The learning is mainly by rote, which seems to give the children a good feeling of security. Not to mention how well they are learning.
The teacher is one of the most creative,energetic,warm and intelligent pre-primary teachers I have ever seen. A dynamo.
Today we brought more supplies with us.I brought Play Doh. Wow what a perfect response. Everyone loved it. We had to limit Teacha Joyce to the amount she used. She was so creative. The children got so much inspiration form her pleasure that they moved from their usual shy positions to joyfulness and they laughed.
ellen of Africa
The teacher is one of the most creative,energetic,warm and intelligent pre-primary teachers I have ever seen. A dynamo.
Today we brought more supplies with us.I brought Play Doh. Wow what a perfect response. Everyone loved it. We had to limit Teacha Joyce to the amount she used. She was so creative. The children got so much inspiration form her pleasure that they moved from their usual shy positions to joyfulness and they laughed.
ellen of Africa
Monday, February 8, 2010
WE ARE NOT IN KANSAS ANYMORE
Feb.8,2010.
I am in love for the first time in a long time. With the country.. with the people.... with the children of Namuwongo.
Ellen and I spent our first day at St. Henry's Primary School and were instantly smitten. They welcomed us in a special assembly outside clapping a rhythmic song. Peter, the headmaster treated us like visiting royalty and Joyce, their incredible teacher, was welcoming and made us feel like we truly belonged. We had tea in the teachers room and met the rest of the staff who were equally welcoming.
But it's the children, the children with their shining ,beautiful, faces attentive to task at hand, diligently learning all the skills, who swept us away. All were so focused ,except for one and of course she found me...
Tomorrow we are planning to spend lunch with the teachers and then I will stay on to work with the Peace and Justice Project with James.
Thank you Judy and Howard for creating this dream so that I can live it.
Doreen
I am in love for the first time in a long time. With the country.. with the people.... with the children of Namuwongo.
Ellen and I spent our first day at St. Henry's Primary School and were instantly smitten. They welcomed us in a special assembly outside clapping a rhythmic song. Peter, the headmaster treated us like visiting royalty and Joyce, their incredible teacher, was welcoming and made us feel like we truly belonged. We had tea in the teachers room and met the rest of the staff who were equally welcoming.
But it's the children, the children with their shining ,beautiful, faces attentive to task at hand, diligently learning all the skills, who swept us away. All were so focused ,except for one and of course she found me...
Tomorrow we are planning to spend lunch with the teachers and then I will stay on to work with the Peace and Justice Project with James.
Thank you Judy and Howard for creating this dream so that I can live it.
Doreen
Sunday, February 7, 2010
I am excited to hear that our 2 newest volunteers have arrived in Muyenga, and are safely at the Kenrock Hotel. I hope this is the start of an amazing venture. Unfortunately, according to James,one of the 2 mentors of the Peace and Justice Club, Olivia is no longer the teacher. He named the new teacher as Joyce. Is this the Joyce we know so well???She was one of the first teachers when we were at In Need Home. Welcome Joyce,if its you.!!Ellen and Doreen, how are you finding the hotel?Remember,you can ask them for a different breakfast! You will love the children in our class,and be pleased to hear that there is some movement between LOVE Central, and St. Henry's. I can hardly wait for daily news. LOVE Judy
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
ONE MORE BIG SLEEP
SO JUST TONIGHT LEFT IN MY COZY BED BEFORE WE HEAD OFF TO UGANDA. I WONDER IF I WILL BE ABLE TO SLEEP.
MIRACULOUSLY I HAVE PACKED EVERYTHING INTO ONE BIG SUITCASE. I NEVER KNEW I HAD SUCH A TALENT.
HOW DO I FEEL? I DON'T KNOW?
EVERYTHING I SEE, SMELL, TOUCH WILL BE NEW. I WILL BE EXPOSED TO A NEW CULTURE. THIS IS EXCITING. I WILL FEEL SORROW AT THE POVERTY I CANNOT SOLVE.
I HAVE HAD A LIFE FILLED WITH GOOD LUCK AND JOY. I WISH TO BRING SOME OF THIS TO THE CHILDREN OF THE NAMUWONGO PROJECT. I WANT TO MAKE THEM LAUGH, AND OF COURSE LEARN THEIR ABC'S.
I AM BRING THEM PLAY DOH
NEXT TIME IN UGANDA.
Ellen
MIRACULOUSLY I HAVE PACKED EVERYTHING INTO ONE BIG SUITCASE. I NEVER KNEW I HAD SUCH A TALENT.
HOW DO I FEEL? I DON'T KNOW?
EVERYTHING I SEE, SMELL, TOUCH WILL BE NEW. I WILL BE EXPOSED TO A NEW CULTURE. THIS IS EXCITING. I WILL FEEL SORROW AT THE POVERTY I CANNOT SOLVE.
I HAVE HAD A LIFE FILLED WITH GOOD LUCK AND JOY. I WISH TO BRING SOME OF THIS TO THE CHILDREN OF THE NAMUWONGO PROJECT. I WANT TO MAKE THEM LAUGH, AND OF COURSE LEARN THEIR ABC'S.
I AM BRING THEM PLAY DOH
NEXT TIME IN UGANDA.
Ellen
THE SUN WILL COME OUT TOMORROW
Feb.3,2010.
Refrains of songs keep running through my brain....
"Tomorrow, tomorrow ,
I love you tomorrow,
You're only a day away".
Perhaps it is because this trip is helping me find my voice. I feel as if I am running to meet myself, in a place called Namuwongo.
Tomorrow.....
Refrains of songs keep running through my brain....
"Tomorrow, tomorrow ,
I love you tomorrow,
You're only a day away".
Perhaps it is because this trip is helping me find my voice. I feel as if I am running to meet myself, in a place called Namuwongo.
Tomorrow.....
Sunday, January 31, 2010
THE COUNTDOWN CONTINUES
Jan.31,2010.
All my bags are packed and I'm ready to go... only 5 more days until take off. My suitcase for the children is overflowing with stickers, pencils , and all sorts of supplies desperately needed. I picture their faces upon arrival and my eyes well up. I am ready. It' a feeling akin to jumping off into a dark space of unknown. I am ready.
Doreen
All my bags are packed and I'm ready to go... only 5 more days until take off. My suitcase for the children is overflowing with stickers, pencils , and all sorts of supplies desperately needed. I picture their faces upon arrival and my eyes well up. I am ready. It' a feeling akin to jumping off into a dark space of unknown. I am ready.
Doreen
Saturday, January 23, 2010
12 Days
The duvet cover on the queen size bed in the guest room can no longer be seen. Strewn on the bed are my clothes, my toiletries, my sketching and watercolor supplies, too many pairs of shoes, a walking stick................
When I learned of the Namuwongo Literacy Project in August I knew it was for me. I had been searching for the right place to volunteer in Africa for a number of years and finally I had found a project where I felt I could fit in. A project where my skills would be helpful.
"Did you buy some of the supplies for the children I saw at Walmart and Dollerama?" asks my 96 and1/2yr old mother. Still driving herself, she has been scouting out materials for the project for months now.
"Uh huh" I mutter looking at the pile of children's supplies next to the bed. How will I pack all of this?
"Good " she asserts, "because you know there are only 12 days left until you go"
I can't breath-my emotions have moved into every available space in my body. I can't wait to meet the children!
ellen
When I learned of the Namuwongo Literacy Project in August I knew it was for me. I had been searching for the right place to volunteer in Africa for a number of years and finally I had found a project where I felt I could fit in. A project where my skills would be helpful.
"Did you buy some of the supplies for the children I saw at Walmart and Dollerama?" asks my 96 and1/2yr old mother. Still driving herself, she has been scouting out materials for the project for months now.
"Uh huh" I mutter looking at the pile of children's supplies next to the bed. How will I pack all of this?
"Good " she asserts, "because you know there are only 12 days left until you go"
I can't breath-my emotions have moved into every available space in my body. I can't wait to meet the children!
ellen
ANTICIPATION
I sit here making lists in preparation for a dream and each moment that I allow myself to experience the excitement, I feel so full, so complete.Nothing matters, except the surreal journey which will alter me forever. I look at the pictures of the children and feel my heart stolen away , even before we actually meet. They will call me "teacha" but I know that ultimately I will be be the student.
Jan.23, 2010
posted by Doreen
Jan.23, 2010
posted by Doreen
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