Fourth of July in Uganda!

We didn’t see fireworks…

But we got to celebrate the Fourth of July in the rains in Africa. Saturday was devoted to going into town. We picked out fabrics for the guys to get African-style shirts made. Then I picked out another fabric to get a skirt made. Then we all came back to the house and I had to rush to get ready for Awere SS to come and show us traditional African dances. Amanda and I joined the circle so that we could learn. So awesome. I put on my African made dress, and we watched these kids dance. They were wonderful. Then, everyone started to get ready for the party. As night fell, the deejay started to play some music. We danced for HOURS. The deejay played quite an array of music, from Ugandan pop to an awesome “Rains in Africa” remix (it was sprinkling at this point, enhancing the experience) to “Buffalo Soldier” (at a mixed party of Americans and Africans…awkward much?). It was an incredible time…possibly my best Fourth of July yet.

Sunday we got an early start because Nathan, Kristin, Allison, and I attended a church in Gulu. It was very difficult to understand everything the pastor was saying, but he did start off by mentioning the war. While things are settled in this area right now…remnants of the war are everywhere. And while it was difficult to understand, the children were adorable and the atmosphere was interesting.

After church, we decided that we were hungry and that we would go to Kope so that I could order the pancake and complete my challenge with witnesses. You see, Joe didn’t believe that I can eat food. A lot of food. So there is a pancake platter that everyone has difficulty finishing at Kope. Child’s play. To our surprise, Joe and a group were already there. So I ordered the African coffee and the pancake platter. I ate the whole thing and then had a bite of Amanda’s steak sandwich to wash it down. Challenge accepted.

Back at the house we had an “active classroom strategies” workshop. It was a great way to learn how to boost student involvement with little or no materials. Effective. Then a woman came with beads. She employs women who were raped and are now mothers. She treats them well and gives them a good income. I bought plenty. The background story is great. Now I am sitting in my room at Pabbo, looking forward to another week.

Until then everyone.

Jenni