Its been awhile...

I've been in Uganda for 7 weeks now and haven't put up a single post. Sorry.  Here's a snapshot of life so far...

1. I've started work.
This one-year position is very similar to being an RA of a floor or someone in charge of resident life.  If I had to tell someone the specific details of my job I would say that I spend my days planning events, creating spreadsheets, introducing students to jack fruit and making doctor's visits, but really those are just the Xs and Os of this position.  Here's how I really think of this job:  I get to spend a year abroad with some of the coolest Christian college students from around the country.  I get to give back to a program that was influential to my college experience, my spiritual walk and my life in general.

Here are the students...

   but here they are for real...    



2. I've reconnected with my host family.
My position at the University is my main priority while I'm here, but the biggest personal blessing of my time abroad is having the chance to reconnect with my host family.  I've had the privilege of meeting the baby boy that was born after my return to the States and have enjoyed interacting with the baby girl (now a walking and talking toddler) that was born during my semester abroad.  The family and I have had many wonderful 'un-photographed' moments, but just so you can take a small peek at their faces, here is an afternoon of bubble-blowing fun. :)

3. I've traveled to Rwanda. 

There is so much that could be said about this trip, so I decided to let a blog post that I created for the program speak for itself.  If you would like to read more check out this link...

http://ugandastudiesprogram.blogspot.com/2013/09/rwanda.html

4. I've formed new relationships and reconnected with old friends. 

I work with an incredible staff and I especially enjoy working with the two other program assistants, Ashton and Innocent.  I've joined the club volleyball team at UCU and am continually blessed by this group of women.  This year, instead of staying with a host family I am living on campus and so I've had the privilege of connecting with many Ugandans my age...

5. I've rediscovered the joy of...

- jack fruit 

- washing my clothes by hand

- braided hair

- milk tea and chapati

- Ugandan humor

- dancing in worship

- writing and receiving hand-written letters

- the bird call that sounds like someone is laughing 

-monkeys

In general, all is going very well.  I am happy, healthy and thankful for all of you.  Thank you for your prayers and love...you are such an encouragement to me.  May the peace of Christ be with you.