Monday, July 11, 2011

Back from a Safari Adventure

Judy said that we are to write on the blog. So I'm blogging! Gaby and I just returned from two days, two nights away on a safari adventure with it's own stories to tell - including having our quarters raided by monkeys who even ate a portion of our supply of malaria pills. We have found a pharmacy that with restock us - phew!

But back to Literacy Project news - With the wonderful Maria leading, we walked 3 girls and 3 boys (older this trip at ages 7 to 10) out of the depths of the Namuwongo slum to the Literacy programme at Saint Henrys School. Gaby has been doing a documentary of the process. Our hearts are full with feelings for these children. For me, special admiration is reserved for the desperately caring women - mothers, aunties or just neighbours who pushed a particular child forward for our attention, and who quickly changed themselves and their children into best clothes for the walk to the school.

We have yet to meet the mother or guardian of "BBC" (yes, he insists that this is his name) who, once finding that that a meal goes with the deal, is warming slightly to our lessons. I can't help feeling a special attachment and responsibility for these 6 children, new to school and whose lives have taken a sudden turn.

It will be St Henry's Day this Wednesday with much rehearsed music and performance activities happening at our host school all day. Boda boda riding (motorbike taxis) have become the norm for carting stuff to the school. We volunteers join up back at the Kenrock Hotel late in the day to share experiences and have a few laughs.

My heart has been in my mouth quite a few times over this past week and I'm happily sure there is more to come. Best to you all from Gaby and me
Carole

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Carole, and also Judy, Bob, and the unknown to me, Gaby!

I am enjoying your blogs, snd reading about your adventures! AND, looking forward to hearing more details whenyou return.

It is very hot here, in the mid-30s with humidity. It must be more pleasant in Uganda!

love,
SLP

rochelle said...

hi judy, bob, carole and gaby(even though u don't know me) - finally, sat down tonight to read your blogs - sounds like u are having an amazing time, as always - thinking of u and sending u all hugs, kisses and lots of love - thanks for writing - stay safe, healthy and happy and keep those malaria pills away from the monkeys.....

rochelle

mtw said...

Marlow wants to know if her bubby Muffy (Carole) is bringing her back a monkey?
It sounds like you are all having a wonderful trip, can't wait to see some photos of the school!
Love Marianne, Jodie and Marlow

Doreen said...

Your story about the monkey reminds me of the time Ellen of Africa dealt with the bat who visited our room in the middle of the night. As she chased it , using my brand new sandle, I was rendered helpless as I was consumed with fits of laughter.
How wonderful, only in Africa,
Take care of yourselves while you keep savouring this unique adventure.
Doreen