everyday is a journey... and the journey itself is home.

Malaria?

2012-01-27T16:54:00.000+03:00

Actually...

I'm not malaria free :(

I had a blood sample taken again this morning because I still didn't feel well and it was positive this time.

A firstwith this nasty thing. At least now I know what to expect from it.

Looks like I'll be postponing the move a few more days.

Now let me get back to laying down and watching Bones...

are you brave again?

2012-01-26T21:02:00.000+03:00

These Chronicle of Narnia books have been so applicable these days; what good timing for me to start reading them! I read this the other morning from Prince Caspian and immediately felt as if the words were written for me...

"You have listened to fears child," said Aslan. "come let me breath on you. forget them. are you brave again?"

A few posts ago I wrote from a fairly heavy place. My fears were overwhelming and I knew I needed to be brought back to truth... thank you to those who prayed, emailed, and encouraged. I really need it.

What I'm realizing is that the time between transitioning seems to be the hardest. I've been in Uganda for close to two weeks now but I've been in Kasana waiting. I know I'm not staying here but I'm not yet where I'm going. The in-between... the unknown... I just need to get there, get going, and start living this life.

I did want to say that I'm in a better place and I am getting excited once again... but I still do have moments of anxiety.

I was supposed to travel tomorrow but I've been sick the past few days (had a malaria "scare" for a moment but came back negative) now I'll be leaving Saturday morning. So I'd appreciate prayer for my health and travel and overall transition. Pray that I'll be able to adjust to living at Kobwin as if I've been living there all my life... I don't want to dwell on all that I'll be without.

Thanks!

Next post will be some pictures of what my new life looks like, whenever I can get internet!

Life In The Bush: Real African Woman

2012-01-24T11:08:00.001+03:00

When I do things like this, I feel more like a real African woman...

Here's my next goal...

simply. amazing.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

2012-01-24T10:56:00.000+03:00

Finished book one in a day. It was a good, fast read.

I've heard this quote before, but reading it in context of the story made it that much better...

"Ooh!" said Susan, "I'd thought he was a man. Is he - quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion." "That you will, dearie, and no mistake," said Mrs. Beaver; "if there's anyone who can appear before Aslan without their knees knocking, they're either braver than most or else just silly." "Then he isn't safe?" said Lucy. "Safe?" said Mr. Beaver; "don't you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you." "I'm longing to see him," said Peter, "even if I do feel frightened when it comes to the point."

"He's wild, you know. Not like a tame lion."

Safety is not God's main priority. He's wild and unpredictable...and good.

Even as I sit and await this upcoming transition - with those fears that keep creeping up here and there - deep down, I want to be part of the thrilling adventure with him. I never want fears to hold me back.

So thank you C.S Lewis for the reminder that God, although wild and "unsafe", is always good.

Fears

2012-01-22T18:35:00.000+03:00

Can I be honest?

I need a lot of prayer. That's why I'm writing this.

The past few days I've hit some major lows. I haven't wanted to admit that, or... i'm trying to hold myself together. I can't anymore, I actually never could. At certain moments in the day, my fears about this move to Kobwin feel crippling. There are so many unknowns and I'm just sitting here in Kasana waiting to go. All I do is think...and think... and think...I need to get there and get this transition going.

I don't want to pretend I'm not feeling this way, I'd rather lean into the emotions I'm going through and bring them to God. I need a word of nearness, of comfort, of courage, and affirmation...

I move on Friday morning. Please pray for me.

Pineapple

2012-01-20T23:54:00.000+03:00

There is something so fascinating to me about the way a pineapple grows...

random thought, but true!

Two Big Words

2012-01-18T16:46:00.001+03:00

As I do every year around December, I started asking God what He might be leading me into in 2012.

Living Sacrifice.

Those 2 words kept coming to my mind; I couldn't get rid of them.

Those two words are big. I don't know what it means for me yet.

Back in October was when I felt Kobwin was where I was supposed to move into in the upcoming year. As those thoughts were coming together in my heart and mind, I heard many questions:

Allison, will you choose to sacrifice in order to love and serve these people, these children?

Would you be willing to give up the comforts you've had in Kasana for the sake of my children in Kobwin?

Will you change your eating patterns and the way you cook in order to do this work?

Will you give up 'luxuries' like hair dryers, refrigerators, stoves, easily accessible internet access, toilets, running water... to live in this community?

Are you willing to sacrifice privacy, entertainment, monthly Kampala trips, relationships (as you know them now) in order to invest in these lives?"

Most days, all I can see are the many things I'm going to be without. It's a little scary, quite uncertain still, but...

I keep telling myself this

I'm not naive. I know I'm about to face many challenges. There will be moments of doubt. Times I'll want to pack up and leave... but I pray in those times I will lean into these words from Joshua 1:9 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." That's the promise I must believe.

I'll end with this: Isaiah 58. I hope in some way this year I will begin to grasp what was meant by these words, believe them, and live them out...

Is this not the kind of fasting I have chosen:

To loose the chains of injustice

and untie the cords of the yoke,

to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?

Is it not to share your food with the hungry

and provide the poor wanderer with shelter-

when you see the naked, to clothe him

and not turn away from your own flesh and blood?

Then your light will break forth like the dawn,

and your healing will quickly appear;

then your righteousness will go before you

and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.

Then you will call and the Lord will answer;

you will cry for help, and he will say, Here Am I

.... .... ....

The Lord will guide you always;

he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land

and will strengthen your frame.

You will be like a well watered garden,

like a spring whose waters never fail.

New Year, New Goals

2012-01-17T21:22:00.000+03:00

I love coming up with fun goals for the new year. Gives me something to look forward to and keeps me inspired all year...

All of 2012 will be in Uganda so my goals are very much tailored to that environment...

1. Read the Chronicles of Narnia - I can't believe I never have, it's time to change that. Already downloaded to the Kindle, I'm ready! 2012 will definitely be the year of much reading.

2. Learn to balance a fruit basket or water jug on my head.

3. Travel to 2 new African countries.

4. Make friends with someone in the village.

5. Find something special to do with the girls I'm living with each month.

6. Care for my own garden. I'm pumped about this. I bought tons of seeds in the states that I hope I can grow well here, we'll see!

7. Learn to cook my meals over an open fire.

8. Speak in Ateso (the local language) when buying things at the market.

9. Climb a mango tree and pick the mangoes.

10. Write 4 handwritten letters a month.

I'll keep you updated on the progress!

Made It Back...

2012-01-16T14:25:00.001+03:00

It's been a loooong two days but I'm back in Uganda!

I had a great month and a half in the states reconnecting with family and friends; I only wish I could have seen everyone; time went too fast!

My final goodbye was to Holly at the LAX airport.
always really hard...

I'm slowly getting more used to these transitions, or rather, I know more what to expect, what I might feel, how to cope.

Still, it is strange jumping between two extreme worlds overnight. I land in Uganda and all of a sudden my accent changes, the way I dress changes, and I'm a minority.

I did a lot of reflecting on my flight from California to London - mostly about people; relationships. One's that were restored, ones that developed, others that were further solidified.

I had a nice overnight layover in London - a great break in the long travel. I checked into the Thistle Hotel and didn't leave the place until the next morning when I headed back to the airport - it was freezing and I wasn't packed for that kind of weather... and... I'll admit, I'm terrible with directions and exploring new places solo.

I enjoyed a few hot showers and baths (gotta take em while I still can!), watched, TV, read, and had coffee for dinner. It's pathetic, I know, but every time I'm in London I don't eat - it's too expensive and I was already feeling that lately I've been spending way too much. I held out for the complimentary breakfast in the morning that definitely delivered :)

Back to the airport and then back on another long flight to Uganda. I started sitting with the uncertainties of what's to come in the next year; eager to get there and get started so I can see the picture clearly. It's all still a bit fuzzy right now.

I'm finding my strength here...

"Do not fear, for I am with you;

do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand...

For I am the Lord, your God,

who takes hold of your right hand

and says to you, do not fear; I will help you"

Isaiah 41: 10, 13

Nora - The Post Office Lady

2012-01-13T02:21:00.000+03:00

I just have to share this story because I was so amazed.

It was a simple act of kindness that left me a bit speechless.

Here's the story...

I ran into the Post Office today to mail out a few things and to get some passport photos taken. The woman I was referred to for the photos was this nice Thai lady. She began asking me questions, making small talk and I shared that I needed two sets taken for my working permit in Uganda and to renew my passport. There was more talk about that and what I was doing specifically in Uganda, and then she said, "this isn't ministry work is it?" When I told her it was her face lit up and she started praising God and sharing her story with me. We talked of her heart for her people in Thailand and her desire to go back when she retires; her dream would be that Joyce Meyer would go to Thailand and that she could translate for her! She shared in my enthusiasm for what this upcoming year will be for me and said she was moved to tears that God would bring us together for those few moments this afternoon to share in the faith .

When it came time for me to pay for the photos she told me that she was going to pay for one of the sets of photos - $15. When I tried to tell her that wasn't necessary she insisted that this was a small way she could show God's love by loving me. She kept saying, "what is love if there are no actions to it?!" It brought her such joy to love God in this tangible way and all I could do is receive the gift and have a heart of gratefulness.

Like I said, she didn't do something miraculous, but her act of love was from the heart and I walked away grinning ear to ear.

Spending Dough Like Whoa

2012-01-10T08:36:00.000+03:00

Just a taaaaad bit overwhelmed right now;

and by a tad I mean holding my knees close to my chest, rocking back and forth telling myself "it'll be OK. There won't be anymore of this for the next year!"

not really...but something close to that.

It was time to do some major shopping in preparation for this upcoming year. I head back to Uganda on Friday.

Holly had class tonight so I drove myself over to the local Target. I looked at everything with a strategic eye as I slowly perused each and every isle. Does this require power? Can I find this in Kampala? Will it pack in the suitcase well? Can this keep the rats out? Will this make my hut feel homey?

With no electricity where I'm going, candles are going to be my best friend; I basically bought out that section of the store, along with the Lara Bars, and the isle with the tea and coffee.

As the cart piled higher and higher and pushing was getting more difficult, panic began to set in a bit...this is gonna be a big bill, yikes! I'm not one to drop that kind of cash in 2 hours time.

It took me awhile to get all the items loaded from the cart. In the mean time, the line behind me was getting longer and longer with customers holding like 5 things in their hand...oops :/. I knew it was bad when I was already over $100 dollars with a fourth of the items scanned! I felt the need to justify my huge purchase to the sweet checkout girl by processing with her where I was headed and that I wouldn't be able to buy anything like this for the next year! I think I was telling myself this more than I was telling her.

I've also been going nuts on books for my new Kindle (thanks again Oatman's!) since I will have NO other ways to escape reality and be entertained in 2012. I bought a solar panel, a hand-crank washer, a ton of bulk herbs for natural remedies...

Bring it on 2012 - the year of "camping out" in the deep village. I'm so ready! I think...

My Final Week

2012-01-07T04:34:00.001+03:00

I'm in my final week before heading back to Uganda on the 13th. The time will be spent with Holly. What a good reunion we had... if only I could freeze time for a bit...

she had no idea i'd be at the airport :)

Final Check Off The List

2012-01-07T03:42:00.000+03:00

Days before 2011 came to a close I remembered one last goal I had... learn how to change a tire. Thanks to my handy dad, I was able to check that one right off the list...

Phoenix

2011-12-30T04:18:00.000+03:00

When my plane touched down last night at the Sky Harbor Airport, in Phoenix my heart knew I was home...
at least one of the few places that I call home.

This is where I moved right after college and built a life here for six years. Many memories were formed in this place. This is where life showed me what it means to be an adult.

It's good to be back.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-27T08:09:00.000+03:00

I love Christmas Eve.

It's the day all the La Bianca's get together at Aunt Linda and Uncle Eric's place to celebrate.

Within the past 2 years I've started a new tradition - I spend the night at Aunt Linda's to help her prep for the big feast. With over 20 people that come, there's quite a bit of work that goes into the day.

but we know how to keep the busy day in the kitchen full of fun with our singing and dancing to upbeat Christmas tunes - one of our favs - Mariah Carey's "Oh Santa"

For New York football fans, Christmas Eve was tense - Jets vs. Giants... our family was split

but...the Giants took the big "W"

The rest of the day was filled with lots of eating and lots of laughing...

Birthday's

2011-12-21T06:58:00.001+03:00

This time of year is busy in the La Bianca family.

Not only is it full of Christmas celebrations, but both my sisters have birthday's in mid December.

Tonight we celebrated their 35th and 30th birthday's.

Stuck in the "Stone Age"

2011-12-16T06:18:00.001+03:00

The past few days I have felt about 10 years behind the rest of America.

For instance...

I was at dinner with some friends last night and everyone had their phones out on the table. Conversation turned in a direction that required us to google right then and there. Touch screen phones with instant internet access were immediately put to use.

"hold on you guys, let me find it on my phone." I reached into my bag and pulled out my new fancy phone. "will this help?!"

I wonder which phone belongs to Allison? Could it be the nice $5 Samsung flip phone? I thiink so. It is so old school it has honestly been such a challenge training myself how to use it!

Then today, I was flying home from Chicago and we had to sit on the runway for over an hour. I turned to my right and noticed the three people in the row next to me all had out their matching Ipads and laying next to that were their Iphones. I found myself ashamed of my little phone. I would check the time or my messages very discreetly for fear that others would stare open mouth at this "cave girl"

Each time I talk on my phone in public, I can't help but think people see me like this:

The DiSanto's

2011-12-15T02:54:00.001+03:00

I got an email from Southwest Airlines for cheap flights. I immediately thought... I need to check prices from New York to Chicago to see my dear friends, the DiSanto's. It's been way too long since our last reunion and they now have a child that I had to meet.

Andrea helped me fulfill a 2011 New Year's Resolution that I almost forgot about...

"learn how to apply eye-makeup" :)

her masterpiece

we made a suprise visit to our college friend, Joe.

enjoyed many cups of coffee

had some fun at the local Target

this CD was purchased with Ada's approval

Target's winter hat line

perfect camo gear for Uganda

the time was way too short but... I'm so grateful it worked out to see them

Winter Beach Day

2011-12-11T00:20:00.000+03:00

Winter and Beach don't really go together, I know - but when mom passed away, we sprinkled her ashes in the ocean and Cheryl went back there on the10 year anniversary this November. I felt really far away from family that day (probably because I was really far away!) and longed to be close. I asked Cheryl to take me when I came home so we can share memories together so, we went today...

Talented Dad

2011-12-10T00:48:00.000+03:00

If you know my dad, you know that he's "Mr. Fix It". For instance, he recently bought this '54 Chevy Pickup to restore and cruise around the town in... just for fun.

But today, another side came out - one that many may not be aware of.

The pastry chef side...

He called me up the other day and suggested we spend today together baking Christmas cookies since he was off from work.

I seriously have the greatest dad!

We started with Rainbow Cookies - a 2 day process but totally worth it!

Oatmeal Raisin Walnut Cookies

Candy Cane Twist Cookies

The Grandparents

2011-12-06T03:37:00.001+03:00

Today Cheryl and I went to our old 5th street residence to visit grandma and grandpa.

When the door opened, I was greeted with a big smile from Aunt Linda - an unexpected surprise!

I always enjoy visiting the grandparents - the look on their faces when they see their "long lost" granddaughter walk in the house puts a smile on my face immediately! Grandpa sits in his chair telling stories while grandma listens and chimes in every once in awhile.

no, he did not fall asleep mid story, I caught him on a blink.

Going to grandpa & grandma's house also means eating. We're Italians, that's what we do! Without fail, there is always a box of pastries from Hummel Hummel Bakery sitting on the table. The box calls out my name, I can't ignore it... I must go to open it and see what's inside.

I then proceed to pick at the contents... soooooo gooood.

I also found one of grandma's wigs on the table, right next to the pastries...hmmmm, interesting. of course we all had to put it on:

I can't decide - should I do the Russian hat look... or....

Should I go for the mullet?

Cheryl's going for the 10 year old, blonde boy look

wait a second... is this a blonde, Italian, Ringo Star in about 20 years?!?!

After a little while, we said goodnight, got in the car and just as we were getting ready to drive off grandpa waves us down...

"wait girls, take the rest of the pound cake with you. I'm on a diet."
I think we said "oh, no thanks" but somehow... we still left with it. That man is pushy when it comes to food!

Always when I leave, I get the feeling I'm going to lose my voice from shouting the whole time ;)

Destination Known

2011-12-02T15:07:00.001+03:00

My role at New Hope post the institute had been in question for the past several months. There were a few possibilities but nothing was set in stone. I felt OK with this, I knew in the right time it would be made known. So I focused on the present - being in class, soaking in as much as I could, building relationships with those around me...

now, with a day before I fly back to the states, I know what I'm coming back to - that feels really nice, I must say! While I'm home the next few weeks, I'll know how to plan and prepare to return to Uganda.

I'll be moving to New Hope Kobwin Children's Center where I'll be teaching P6 & P7 English (6th/7th grade). You can find my locations on the map: I'm moving from Luwero District (light pink) to Kumi area (orange section). Might be hard to read this map... oops...

I'm in awe how the details have come together...

This time last year, as I planned to return to Uganda, I wanted to be at Kobwin but it didn't seem to be working out so I tried to put it out of my mind. As I said above, I tried not to stress about what my upcoming year at New Hope would be but rather trusted that God would make it known as I walked with him each day. Looking back on the last 5 months I see a glimpse of how God has prepared me for this moment and I am simply... amazed...

I wrote a post a few weeks ago sharing my thoughts after returning from a long weekend at Kobwin (the post was titled: laughter, reunions, questions). God has gently spoken into my doubts and fears and has brought me into deep relationships with Ugandans that I'll be working alongside with at Kobwin. I am just now seeing how God has been at work all along; planning and preparing the way for my next steps - nothing about my last several months was "by accident".

Here's my new home

Moving here is going to be one big adjustment. for. sure. It is beautiful though...I have to plan and pack accordingly when I'm at home, thinking ahead with this in mind:

no electricity

no running water

minimal privacy

no stores to buy teaching materials

I'm open to any suggestions anyone has on how to survive "camp living" for a year :)

This is gonna be fun. overwhelming at times, yes, but it's an adventure for sure. I keep thinking, "I can do anything for a year!"

I'm Coming Home

2011-11-29T10:49:00.000+03:00

I hit a wall last week, so unexpectedly.

I realized the institute was like having major heart surgery done on me. There has to be a rest and recovery process that follows that, which I hadn't planned for. I was all geared up to jump full swing into life and relationships here. Ann left, I stayed in Entebbe a few nights, came back to New Hope, and craaaashed. It took everything within me to leave the house. I felt emotionally spent. I kept thinking, "what's wrong with me!?" I had nothing to give...

The thought of staying until December 18th made me feel stuck; I was ready to go home but didn't think it was possible this late in the game to change my flight. After talking it over with some friends this weekend, I decided it was worth looking into.

Yesterday I headed into Kampala to the British Airways Office. I shared my situation briefly and the lady who was helping me smiled and said, "let's see what we can do." I needed that kind of mother care, I was feeling quite fragile! Without any probelm, she was able to re-book my ticket 2 weeks early on a flight with two of my friends - amazing! I was preparing myself for what would come next... how much this change was going to cost me.

The kind lady finished processing the ticket, answered a phone call quick, then turned to me and said, "all done, no charge." I was completely speechless for a few seconds and then thanked her over and over again, letting her know she was truly an answer to prayer for me!

As I walked out of the office, my heart was at rest. I had to thank God for knowing my needs and caring for them in ways I couldn't have anticipated. I came back to verse 3 in Psalm 23 that I had been praying:

True to your word

you let me catch my breath

and send me in the right direction

(message version)

With that said, I'll be stateside December 4th and I am so ready!

New York until the 28th, Phoenix for a week, California for just over a week, and then back to Uganda mid January. I'm looking forward to some good reunions!!

First For Everything

2011-11-26T20:42:00.001+03:00

Living in another country provides many opportunities for "firsts"; today was one of those days;

any guess what this is

fried... grasshoppers, a real delicacy here!

usually when I try crazy new foods (especially things that still have eyes on them!) it takes me a little time. I have to pysch myself up, do a countdown, and then - just GO for it. Irene documented my progression.

eat a grasshopper. check!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T21:46:00.003+03:00

Today was rainy and cool all day which is abnormal this time of year in Uganda but it put me in the Thanksgiving mood. I pulled out my sweet fuzzy socks for the first time and remained lazy for most of the day

In following American Thanksgiving tradition, we played a little two hand touch football. Dad you would've been proud ;)

We were about 50 Americans tonight so there was an abundance of food.

2 turkeys, 5 chickens, several giant pots of mashed potatoes, a few stuffing varieties, candied pumpkin (one of my favs!) salads, pies...

I was too excited to eat, I couldn't wait to sit!

uuuuggghhhh... I did my best...

Twinkling Lights

2011-11-24T01:05:00.001+03:00

Power came on, which means...

I can fall asleep with my new Christmas lights on. I have to put them to good use while I can!

The scent of my Balsam & Cedar Yankee Candle is also going strong to add to the Christmas cheer!

Top 10 of Mom

2011-11-23T10:51:00.000+03:00

I woke up to the sound of a light but steady rainfall; it seemed to be the perfect expression of my heart. I've been thinking about this day for awhile now, completely amazed at how fast time moves. Mom has been gone 10 years... 10 years... feels like forever ago. so much life has happened between then and now; so many stories and experiences never shared with her. But... if i close my eyes... those last few days with her seem like yesterday.

As is part of my process with this, I pulled out the book of letters (and pictures) that people wrote about my mom and allowed myself to go back in time and remember life with her. I bounce between laughter and tears as I go through each one. Always, when I finish, I think - here was a woman who really knew how to love life and love people, bringing joy everywhere she went because she was filled with God's love. I consider myself blessed to have shared those 18 years with her...

It wasn't long before the rains slowly came to a stop, the birds began singing, the roosters were crowing (this is Africa!) and the dark rain clouds were broken up, replaced by the warmth of the suns rays. As I've come to know in this experience, there is always hope. The rains don't fall forever. And sometimes, even in the midst of the rain, if we look out the window we can find beauty.

I have found the greatest blessing come out of my greatest pain; an intimacy with God that can never be taken away.

....

I wanted to write a Top 10 list of some favorite memories of mom

1. My mom had a story to go along with every "oldie" song that came on the radio. Stories of old boyfriends, songs she'd sing with friends, concerts she went to, my dad...

2. She was the queen of radio contests. That woman had the magic touch when dialing to be the nth caller. She won CD players, Cd's, concert tickets, T-shirts, beach bags, several dinners out on a boat - she even won our living room carpet - all on the one Christian radio station on Long Island. She won so much she became friends with the host... oh, my mother!

3. She loved Christmas so much that there were years where our tree would be left up until February, until the tree was down to a few pine needles.

4. Mom was our biggest fan whether at dad's softball games, Cheryl's marching band performances, my volleyball games. The woman. could. cheeeeeer as if no one else was around!

5. She was confident and free. what you saw was what you got - whether you were the lady in front of her at the checkout in the grocery store or her best friend.

6. She always made our birthday's a special day. She stayed up late cleaning off the table (which was always full of her junk-haha!) laying out the special birthday table cloth, blowing up balloons and hanging them around the dining room. She would put our gifts on the table and tag team with dad to prepare our favorite breakfast. Then she'd start singing Birthday by the Beatles to us.

7. As a girl, I'd go with my mom and her friends to Jazzercise. I'd play in the corner while the women danced around in their very 80's looking workout clothes. The good workout was often followed up by a run to The Sweet Shop in Northport village!

8. During open house night in elementary school, mom always wrote us a note and left small gifts in our desks that we'd discover the next morning. As simple as this was, I was always eager to see what I'd find.

9. I have many memories of laying together on her bed, talking about life, watching TV, and alternating scratching each other's backs every 10 minutes or so. These times seem etched in my heart today because they occurred often in those final years we had together.

10. Mom and I were both last borns, I think we had a special bond because of that. I always followed her around the house, doing whatever she was doing with her because I loved talking with her or just being close. I remember always being the daughter to volunteer to go to the grocery store with her - maybe because that's one of my favorite places to go! - We'd talk together in the car and she always let me pick out the school snacks.

A Little R&R

2011-11-22T19:12:00.000+03:00

I realized how tired I have been since I graduated. I needed a rest.

I took Ann to Entebbe yesterday and decided to stay 2 nights for some R & R

There was a whole lot of this today at the Lake Victoria Hotel

I overcame a fear today. With shaking hands and a rapid heart beat I stepped to the back of the platform and took off running...

another day i'll try the 9.4 meter jump!

sat here for several hours

the rains came down on me as I walked to the hotel. I came into this fancy place looking like quite a mess, whoops!

it was a pretty great day, just what I needed...

Graduation

2011-11-21T20:22:00.001+03:00

Today was graduation day... can't believe this time has come and gone so quickly!

Irene and I decided to be twins today :)

There were testimonies from a few classmates

singing and dancing - to be expected with this group!

they ended by praying over each of us individually as we move into what is next. very powerful ...

we ended with a good ole Ugandan feast!

Competition

2011-11-21T20:19:00.001+03:00

song and dance are in my blood. there is something about African music and dance that especially excites me -

I wore a permanent grin today for a straight 2 hours as moved in my seat to the beat of the drum, taking in all the unique dances.

New Hope was celebrating the completion of reading through the chronological one year Bible. The celebration consisted of a competition where the winning team received a goat to feast on. Everyone put their game face on as they prepared for the competition... their eyes on the delicious prize. Staff and children were divided by the region of Uganda they come from.

The task: each region was to chose a part of the bible that they were going to act out through song and dance. There was creation from the Northern tribes, Noah and the flood from the central region, the children of Israel from the east and the birth of Jesus from the west.

I was fascinated with what each group came up with.

I'll try to upload some videos when I get to some faster internet spot!

2011-11-21T20:04:00.000+03:00

I have been having giant fruit sightings these days

first the largest banana I've ever eaten!

I couldn't just bite right in - I had to bite one side, then the other. what?!!?

This pic doesn't do justice to how huge this banana is!

These giant fruits are jackfruits

you don't want to be under this tree when those things fall, it'll take you right out!

I had posted and then found another abnormally large fruit. I had to go back and add it to the collection

papaya that will feed the thousands

Snapshots of the Heart

2011-11-21T19:58:00.001+03:00

More bittersweet moments in class today.

We were asked to present creative projects to represent what God has done in our time during the Institute.

Here's a glimpse of what I did.

I put together a scrapbook for myself.

God had the 12 tribes of Israel collect a stone of remembrance to represent his faithfulness to them so they would be able to share with their children what He had done for them.

I wanted to have my own symbol to always remember what God brought me through. The book is full of song lyrics, quotes that spoke deeply to me, scriptures, and symbolic pictures.

I was moved by each person that got up to share today. God has lead us on our own individual paths of transformation these last 5 months. Hearing stories, songs, skits, and poems of healing, freedom, and renewed passion from one person after another was inspiring.

Another day to reflect and enjoy these people I have grown to love and appreciate!

Closing The Chapter

2011-11-21T19:49:00.002+03:00

5 more days of class. 5 more days with my classmates that have become family...

i'm feeling the weight of this ending tonight.

have you ever been so engaged in a novel that you cannot even put it down? At night you may dream about it and during the day (when you aren't reading it) you are thinking about it and even describing it to friends?

As you approach the last chapter of the ride you've been on with these characters you are conflicted. You don't want to stop reading because you must find out how it all wraps up, but... that also means that the journey ends. The story is finished.

I have felt this way with several books and I'm feeling it now with my own reality.

The road I've been walking on the past 5 months has been full and intense. Over the last few weeks I've been wanting to push through and get to the ending, graduation day. So much has been poured into my heart and I wanted to do something with that; to let it flow out.

but tonight... i was feeling the conflicting emotion. the excitement of graduation day is met with the loss of my unique community, my family. Everyone will go their separate ways and we will be left with the sweet memories of what this time was.

We have walked a journey together that has knit us together for life. I feel really grateful for this season of my life and these people I shared it with.

2011-11-13T12:03:00.000+03:00

The faces of people who haven't eaten in about 11 hours

faces of those well fed

Life in the Bush: Road Trip Uganda Style

2011-11-13T11:58:00.000+03:00

While meeting a new friend (old man) on the road outside of NH Kobwin's children center I was asked "are you a spinster?" Do people really use that word? Do I look like an old woman surrounded by cats?! I tried not to take offense :)

There is a certain place on the journey where people stop to get snacks; chicken and beef on sticks, roasted bananas, chapati's, drinks. As the vehicle is pulling up a mass of people in blue aprons come running towards the car pushing their way to your window. They all want you to buy from them. Some even wedge their way through the window and shove whatever it they are holding in your face. They are very persistent.

For the 9 hour bus ride home, I knew I'd get hungry but there is no where to stop for a bag of combo's, trailmix or any of those other classic "go to" snacks... so... I went with a sweet potato.

The bus driver had one cassette tape with a total of 6 songs on it for the ride. He felt it was necessary to put it on repeat so 16 out of the 18 hours we heard those same 6 songs. My Luganda just increased about 20%

All in one night in my room at Kobwin there was a baby crying, someone throwing up, bats flying just outside my mosquito net, and little children singing "deep and wide" at 4am. I was exhausted to say the least.

Would you Consider?

2011-11-01T15:10:00.001+03:00

Several months ago a young woman, connected to New Hope, lost her husband, leaving her home to care for 4 children ( I believe). My teacher suggested she move in with her mother, who is also a widow, so that they can care for one another.

Although it sounded like a great plan, it was not possible. There was no way this home could take in 5 more people. My teacher looked into adding onto the house but this too was not an option. The house is so poorly built and if they tried to add onto it the house would most likely collapse.

Moved by God's heart to love and care for the orphans and widows, my teacher brought the need before our class. He felt strongly in his heart to help these women by building them a new home so that they could be together. He told us the total cost of the house would be $1,500.

I was immediately drawn to this idea for a few reasons. In class we dug into several passages in scripture where God reveals his heart for the orphans and widows and how he calls us to respond as well. I want to take this command seriously. But also I felt personally connected to the older woman.

If you were following my blog back in 2008-09, you may remember an old woman that my family group and I helped. She was in desperate need of a mud kitchen so we took 2 days and built one for her...

well... this is the same woman that I am writing about and I again feel burdened to stand with her and her daughter.

A friend had emailed me a few months ago looking for ways her church could be involved in New Hope and I shared this with her. They were able to give us a great start on this project with just over $500 and then another $500 has since come in. I wanted to present this need to those reading and ask you to prayerfully consider adding to this $1,000 to help these two widows and their families have a new home.

The goal is $500 more...

If you are wanting to be involved you can email me (allisonlabianca@gmail.com) and I can let you know how to give.

Thank you for considering, I know these woman would be incredibly blessed!

laughter, reunions, questions

2011-10-31T17:51:00.001+03:00

I just got back from a 4 day trip with my class.

Little cell service, no electricity or running water, a time to step away from everything I turn to naturally and just be with people.

We went to New Hope's newer site, Kobwin, where the focus is on ministering to former abductees. 4 of my classmates are from the area and will be working for New Hope when our class finishes. They wanted all of us to go there as a group so after some quick planning we were told to pack our bags and prepare to go. I was more than willing to go since this is the very place my heart is deeply connected to. I hadn't been there since December 2008 so I was ready to reunite with the children!

We started the 8 hour drive Thursday morning and rested most of that first day.

Friday Mama took me around the village to meet her family and friends. Everyone knows and loves her so we stopped often to chat with people who had been missing her all these months she has been in Kasana! Friday was a LOT of walking and greeting and meeting new people!

Friday was our day to pour into the children.

We took what we learned in class about presenting bible stories and came with a few to present to the children.

Then we played games with them - which always brings some good bonding and lots of laughing!

as awkward as this one can be, they LOVED it!

Friday we took a walk to Mama and Papa's garden to pick as many oranges as we could fit in our bags.

We drove as far as the little dirt road would allow to get to papa's land and then got out and walked. As the children in the village heard the vehicle rumbling down the road they came running out to investigate. We came filing out and they started following us. Loving little children, I started holding hands and making crazy faces to win them over. Next thing I know there are about 40 children walking in step with me, staring. This has happened many times but it continues to amaze me. I think it's hilarious, I had to document :)

Overall, the time was a blast. I honestly love my classmates; it'll be hard saying goodbye at the end of November. Each person is unique and we laugh A LOT when we are together.

my latest processes...

I am coming back with a full heart and rekindled desire to be among these children.

Each morning I woke up early and climbed up the big rock that sits behind the houses. I would sit and pray and look out at the village as far as I could see. Dreaming, pouring my heart out to God, listening. There are many thoughts I'm processing through at this point.

The 2 years away from Uganda, I prayed for God to bring me back to Kobwin; to work with these specific children. During that 1st year I was here God connected my heart to these children unexpectedly and I longed to be reunited with them. But, as I began to prepare to come out, fears crept up, uncertain details brought doubt, and it seemed maybe I wasn't supposed to go full time to Kobwin. The plan at this point is to go for one week a month while the other 3 weeks would be spent at New Hope Kasana site.

Challenging thoughts were presented to me on the rock in those quiet mornings though. I believe I may be asked to step out of what has gotten comfortable for me here at Kasana and live a life of deeper sacrifice. I sensed God calling me into deeper trust and dependence that he'll care for my needs and be my protector; suddenly all of the "what if's" and "what about this God" questions I had about living in Kobwin seemed insignificant. All I kept thinking these past few days was this was the place God was moving me towards. Why spend only 1 week a month?

I've gotten comfortable and I don't want comfort to dictate my life. I want God to guide my steps; I think he may have other plans for my upcoming year in Uganda. I have held plans very loosely in my mind, wanting to give God the freedom to lead.

I am not making any plans at this point. I think I need to step away so decisions aren't made emotionally. I'll be talking this over with people in leadership and praying over the next 2 months what God wants from me.

I wanted to share my process with this so those of you reading could pray with me.

I'll keep you posted

(More Pictures)

Radical

2011-10-24T22:29:00.004+03:00

I just started a new book...

I have been sitting with this thought of his...

We have been told all that is required is a one time decision, maybe even mere intellectual assent to Jesus, but after that we need not worry about his commands, his standards, or his glory. We have a ticket to heaven, and we can live however we want on earth. Our sin will be tolerated along the way. Much of modern evangelism today is built on leading people down this road, and crowds flock to it, but in the end it is a road built on sinking sand, and it risks disillusioning millions of souls.

Biblical proclamation of the gospel beckons us to a much different resposne and leads us down a much different road. Here the gospel demands and enables us to turn from our sin, to take up our cross, to die to ourselves, and to follow Jesus. These are the terms and phrases we see in the Bible. And salvation now consists of a deep wrestle in our souls with the sinfulness of our hearts, the depth of our depravity, and the desperation of our need for his grace. Jesus is no longer one to be accepted or invited in but one who is infinitely worthy of our immediate and total surrender.

We have taken the infinitely glorious Son of God, who endured the infinitely terrible wrath of God and who now reigns as the infinitely worthy Lord of all, and we have reduced him to a poor, puny Savior who is just begging for us to accept him. Accept him? Do we really think Jesus needs our acceptance? Don't we need him?

Like A Kid On Christmas

2011-10-24T22:28:00.002+03:00

I couldn't walk fast enough from the office to my house. I held the box with eager anticipation and immediately grabbed the scissors and tore into the contents like a child on Christmas morning! Each thing I pulled out made my smile grow bigger - I've been missing my Trader Joe's Treats.

Pray that I have discipline to ration all of this yummy food ;)

Thank you:

Allison, Signe, Gwen, Anna, Susie, and Karen - I feel incredibly blessed by your generosity!!

(10/20/11)

Joys Of African Life

2011-10-24T22:27:00.005+03:00

I've been in Uganda for just over 3 months now.

and every 3 months I get to...

Deworm! yay!

I can tell it's time. After eating I don't feel right, almost like something inside me is feasting on my food... gross, I know. Or it's all in my head... I'm known to be that way. When I told Ugandan Mama I was going to de-worm today she said, "good you just ate. they are coming to eat. (how disgusting!!) you take the pill now"

The joys of living in Africa.

(10/12/11)

Life In The Bush: Yummy Treats

2011-10-24T22:27:00.004+03:00

It seems to be that time of year again.

Children excitedly run outside with their plastic cups in hand in search of these little guys:

flying ants

As you can see, they can be found near lights when it is dark or pouring out of ant hills like lava in an erupting volcano.

The children grab them by their wings and stuff them in their cups.

They can be eaten fried in oil sprinkled with salt - giving it a taste similar to Cheetos

or for the healthier option

alive - wings and all...

Let me know if you want me to catch some, seal in a vacuum tight bag, and send them to you. I have plenty flying around the house right now ;)

(I'm not really going to do that by the way!)

(10/17/11)

It's Gonna Be A Good Day

2011-10-24T22:26:00.003+03:00

Pumpkin Pancakes and Peppermint Tea - perfect way to start the morning!

good food makes me happy...

(10/10/11)

Life In The Bush: Interesting Finds

2011-10-24T22:25:00.002+03:00

It seems everyday I see something that catches my eye and I often wish I had my camera close by when I notice these things.

Here are some recent finds

Notice any interesting choices on the menu?!

Peanut Butter and Roast Beef???! Are my taste buds missing out on something?

Any guess on what this is? (not referring to the cow dung on the side!)

The trail you see are millions of ants! And the white spots you see are the ants carrying eggs on their backs. Found this on a run the other day... I stopped dead in my tracks and squatted down in fascination at the sight. Then I realized the stray ants were crawling up my leg... time to keep running.

Sunday afternoon the jump rope came out with the kids, followed by many laughs. These two pictures are awesome...

These girls have major air

just look carefully at the photo...

"mama" went to jump out as I jumped in and completely wiped out, doing a sweet roll away so I wouldn't jump on her! I almost fell over myself laughing so hard at this sight. glad it was captured on the camera.

(10/10/11)

Fall Fest

2011-10-24T22:24:00.003+03:00

With October upon us, I've really been missing fall. All over Facebook are pictures of fall weather and status updates full of excitement about the new season...

but this season is so far removed from me in the blazing heat of Uganda and I'm sad.

We had to create our own fall atmosphere to engage in this wonderful season...

amazing what a fall scented candle can do!

I'm ashamed to say I have never carved a pumpkin. There's always a first for everything.

My reggae pumpkin... maybe. kind of.

it appears reggae pumpkin just had brain surgery gone bad

we are thinking of sending this in to Better Homes and Gardens Magazine Fall 2011 Edition

next fall night there will be apple cider, pumpkin pie and possibly an exciting game of bobbing for apples - but for those of you in the states,

drink a Pumpkin Spice Latte for me please!

Happy Autumn

(10/7/11)

Old Testament

2011-10-24T22:23:00.002+03:00

This week has been jam. packed! We are flying through the Old Testament - in five days! Tons of new information is being stuffed in my head daily and it helps to write it out so I can organize and sort and make sense.

Let me be honest... before the Institute, I struggled to enjoy reading most of the Old Testament. It always seemed like a bunch of disconnected stories that I couldn't mentally piece together into the greater theme of the Bible. I realize I was completely missing what God was trying to communicate through it. I feel pretty pathetic admitting that because, I've been in the church since I could... crawl... embarrassing!

Reading it on my own doesn't help much either. Now I understand why the Bible is a communal read, I need others to help bring certain truths to light! This mathematical mind of mine has always had a hard time identifying symbolism and I see how much I've been missing all these years; crucial points that reveal God's sovereign plan over creation, while at the same time, leaving the reader to ponder many mysteries yet to be revealed.

There has been a new found freedom and enjoyment coming to life in my heart as I learn to read the Old Testament as a beautiful narrative that unveils God's glory and character while pointing to a greater hope and a greater Kingdom that awaits.

God isn't simply the author of this book - who you never really connect with - he is the main character. He is the one who captivates the reader, the one you are rooting for and empathizing with, the hero who you long to be like... looking at Him in that light has changed the way I read now.

There is so much we've discussed that I could write about. So many stories we've dissected that have fascinated me, questions we've asked to get our minds thinking... but not sure my writing would do it justice, and it would take a lot of energy that I don't have right now to do that!

Overall though, I'm seeing that I need to stop looking at scripture with my lens - making it man centered or even "Allison" centered. A question I would often think about while reading is "how does this apply to me today?" Asking only that, I am missing the point. God's word is so much bigger than me. Shocking! But seriously, that's how I was reading it without realizing it. The Bible is God's story, he is at the center, and it is his glory and character that are woven throughout every recorded event.

I'll end with this underlying question I've noticed God ask repeatedly while reading the Old Testament - seems to be at the heart of every person in scripture...

"Do you really believe I will be faithful to my promises to you?"

Belief vs. Disbelief

faith leading to trust or fear leading to rebellion

...it's the same one God is asking today - one that confronts me all the time.

(10/6/11)

The Queen

2011-10-24T22:22:00.002+03:00

Today, at New Hope, everyone was busily preparing for the Kabaka's (King) wife - from the Baganda tribe - to visit. Hundreds of people from all over the area have congregated on our site to get a look at her and hear her speak. The festivities are still going on right now but language was a problem for me. It's all in Luganda and I have no idea what's going on so I was just socializing the whole time and having a photo shoot with those around me...

This boy was standing there watching me the whole time - I wonder if he thought I was the queen?! or..., maybe he was wondering what this crazy white girl is doing with her camera? Either way, I started making faces at him and got him laughing. We played this game for a few minutes and then I went back to talking. As I started to head home, I turned around and saw that he had found me again. I took a closer look and had to laugh to myself because he was the 2nd person I noticed wearing a shirt with this on it...

Obama is even here in Uganda!

On Saturday I saw a guy wearing jeans with "Obama" written in huge letters down the leg. It's just funny to me.

... my random stories for today :)

(10/5/11)

Life In The Bush: It Is Now Normal...

2011-10-24T22:21:00.001+03:00

to wake up and find at least 5 new insect bites on my body. Usually in the most awkward places to itch in the middle of class.

to drink 4-5 cups of tea a day

to brush my teeth under the moon and spit in the grass due to lack of running water in my house.

to have geckos rain down on me as I open the shutters or the door.

to have power go out right in the middle of doing something that requires it and then, other times, have it come back in the middle of the night - waking me from sleep because I forgot to flip the light switch!

to eat a diet high in starch for practically every meal - I've got a nice pregnant stomach look going on.

to not drive, watch tv, "go out" on weekends, use modern appliances.

(10/3/11)

Friday Night

2011-10-24T22:20:00.002+03:00

What do you do on a Friday night when there is nowhere to go out - because you live in the bush and electricity has been out for days - so watching a movie isn't an option?

My classmates were expressing their extreme boredom - it was time for a game night by candlelight, which makes it all the more interesting.

We started with spoons - a game they just learned last week and became instantly addicted to. It got crazy; wrestling for spoons under tables and nail scratches left and right...

It's down to Augustine and I for the final spoon

I'm pretty much a champion at the game... i took 2/3. I'm thinking there was a conspiracy out against me in the last round...

next... an intense game of

not so easy by candlelight. we all went temporarily color blind.

the expected "boring night" ended up being a night of serious laughing

but oh, to be able to hop in the car and drive somewhere... missing that right now.

(10/1/11)

Monthly Love

2011-10-24T22:19:00.002+03:00

I got a small package in the mail the other day from Holly. She is wonderful. I think I mentioned before that she has a small gift for me each month that I'm in Uganda. This month she mailed me this cute brooch from her mayfly line. I can wear it in my hair (as you can see!), on a headband, my shirt, really - wherever I feel inspired :)

But along with the monthly gifts she sends me a postcard that is a piece of a puzzle. How fun is she?! I started piecing it together today... curious what the message is. Creative friends are wonderful to have in your life.

Thanks holspelz - we are buddies. you're my best friend.

(9/30/11)

Dying In Faith

2011-10-24T22:18:00.001+03:00

This week, so far, has brought on quite the range of emotions.

it's been...

intense. inspiring. overwhelming. mysterious. hopeful. confusing. painful. reflective.

Silent tears have dripped down my cheeks at random times during our discussions on suffering - remembering grief that I have borne over the years, pain others have walked through, scriptures that have moved me. But I've also been brought to tears because of hope; the longing for what is yet to come that will somehow (still don't get this!) outweigh all the pain in this world. All the pain that I've experienced or have yet to experience.

...

All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance.Hebrews 11:13

"Have any of you ever been in the presence of someone who has died in faith? Have you seen with your eyes an example of someone who knew how to die well?," Keith asked.

In my minds eye I immediately pictured my mother laying in her hospital bed moments before she breathed her last on this earth. I nodded my head in response to the question as tears filled my eyes. The next several minutes of class I was distracted as I let myself reflect on my mom's life - mainly the final year she had left on this earth.

She was someone who knew how to "rejoice in her sufferings" and point others to God's glory in the midst of it. The physical pain she endured and the wasting away of her body did not bring her to despair - God met her in it, gave her his strength where hers was empty, and showered her with grace to live this out day after day. She could not keep silent! She boasted in her weakness - making great the name of the Lord.

There is something so challenging and inspiring to witness someone who lives this out. Someone who is in the midst of terrible suffering, and yet, has joy in promises yet to come...

...

And then, I pictured my family in the hospital, gathered around my mom. At the time I wished I didn't have to see this. It was the most painful thing for me to do - to watch my mom's life pass away before my eyes. But today, I'm so glad I was there for it. It was a sweet moment. My mom died in faith. I don't know what she saw in those few moments between this life and the next, but I'm pretty sure she was talking to Jesus - that he was there, calling her forward. The smile on her face, her eyes fixed on something beyond our sight, and the muttering words that none of us could understand - brought a glimpse of reality to this hope. It planted in me an assurance of this greater joy. That there really is a Father who loves us and welcomes us into his Kingdom... There is more to this life, more to our present sufferings...

I'll end there for now.

My brain is still processing all the layers we've discussed in class on this topic!

(9/28/11)

Family Lunch

2011-10-24T22:17:00.002+03:00

Sunday Lunch at Sam Fam...

Growing up I always loved Sunday lunches. We lived above my grandparents and often ate meals with them on Sunday. The smell of pasta sauce would make it's way upstairs and I would let it overtake me. I'd creep down, break off a chunk of Italian bread, and dip it in grandpa's sauce to be sure it was just right - it always was! He would pretend to be annoyed and then ask - how is it?

Today I wanted to enjoy a meal with the kids in my family group. They were serving Katogo - which means "mixture". This mixture was Cassava and beans. Sitting in the Samuel Family Banda, eating lunch brought back great memories of my childhood. One difference though... my Italian family does not eat in such quietness!

When the camera comes out they all flock to it... here are some of the children.

(9/25/11)

Week Of Suffering

2011-10-24T22:16:00.001+03:00

You might be curious about this title...

This is the topic we moved into Friday and will continue on this upcoming week. I have actually been looking forward to it ever since I started class. I kept wondering when the week of suffering was going to come... I'm strange, I know.

But this topic is so relevant. Most, if not all, of us wrestle with this question- how can there be agood God with all this suffering in the world?? When we look at suffering in and of itself, it isoverwhelming! Instead of really thinking about it, our nature is to avoid it and find ways to distract ourselves from reality.

I don't want to avoid the discussion. Suffering is reality, for every human being, and I want to try to understand, in the slightest way, what God makes of suffering. What does he say about it? How is it that we can see his goodness in the darkest days? I long to grasp for something tangible in the face of suffering that I can also offer to others in their pain.

Friday's class was more foundational - laying the ground work for what's ahead.

We read a few excerpts from books like "Night" by Ellie Wiesel, "Case For Faith", "Where is God When It Hurts" by Philip Yancy and the book of Lamentations, looking at different people's responses to suffering and whether God's goodness and sovereignty could really exist in the midst of it.

In "Night", Ellie Wiesel completely lost faith and hope in God in the midst of his incredible suffering in the Concentration Camp. His beliefs were tested under these horrific circumstances and he concluded that God was not good and not all powerful but rather was weak and could not be trusted. Ellie became the accuser and God the accused... Lamentations shows the same thing. For 2 1/2 chapters Jeremiah is mourning the deep suffering of his people - becoming, like Ellie, the accuser and God the accused. But, Jeremiah's response at the end is shocking after reading the intensity of the situation presented to him:

" Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope. Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion' therefore I will wait for him." The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord" Lamentations 3:21-26

Taking the role of "accuser" in our suffering is normal but... it is where the accusing leads us that matters.

I'll end here with this thought Keith brought us to chew on a bit in class.

Suffering is so big and we can get lost in it. When we look at the world, all we see is suffering. It bothers us because at our core we believe we deserve good at all times. We are so trained to shake our fist at the face of evil but when goodness comes we keep quiet because we believe, deep down, this is what we deserve.

But what if it's the opposite...

We actually deserve suffering all the time but we see goodness taking over instead. What if we could reverse it and say, "why is there so much goodness in the world? So much beauty? Why do things still taste good to us? ...

(9/24/11)

Here I Am

2011-10-24T22:15:00.005+03:00

A lot has been going on in my heart recently.

I continue to see how my word for 2011 is so appropriate - DEPENDENCY. I really can not function on my own strength. The future holds so many questions, uncertainties, hopes... I crave answers - but I'm not in the future, I'm in today. So I have to be in today, and today I need God... desperately.

I connect with music, it has an ability to pierce my heart and speak the words I don't always have. I've always loved this song (that I typed below) but recently it's meaning hits closer to home; it's my prayer and plea as I sit with the questions of life. I have a few other songs also on repeat in my house these days.

Here I Am - Shawn McDonald

I lay myself at your feet

I'm asking you, won't you meet -

won't you meet me

I can not do it on my own

I can not do it all alone

Here I am O tonight

with my arms open wide

won't you come inside

Lay myself at your feet

I'm asking you, won't you meet -

please, won't you meet me

I can not do it on my own

I can not do it all alone

here I am O tonight

with my arms open

won't you come inside

Won't you come and take this

come and fill this heart of mine

I'm in need of you

of your touch

of your life

of your love

I need you...

Lord I need you...

*it's really simple but comes from a deep place in the heart, you may just need to listen to it...here it is

(9/21/11)

Another Good Week

2011-10-24T22:15:00.004+03:00

Each week of the Institute I find myself saying when asked, "this week has been. so. great!" Not sure there will be a week that I'm not fully engaged in... I am being exposed to some amazing practical skills to use personally and in relationships, I have been dealing with lots of heart issues, maturing in my relationship with God and my understanding of scripture... just so many things.

But this week I especially loved - the 2nd session of counseling. Some might say I'm obsessed with self reflecting, digging deeper in my heart and other's hearts, transformation, understanding other people beyond the surface, walking with people as we journey through life. Why can't there be a job where you just "do relationships"? I feel like I'd be really good at that one - if there is one, please fill me in... ;)

My teacher, Tim, has given us some great things to think about and remember as we walk in relationship... As he continues to say, "counseling is bringing people one step closer to Jesus."

A few tidbits I've been grabbing onto in the teaching...

When walking with people we have to walk in humility, constantly keeping our own hearts in check - the Holy Spirit could very well be trying to confront things in our life as we engage with others. I have not arrived - there's always room for growth.

There is never a formula in dealing with people. The Holy Spirit is calling us to depend on his leading and guidance. This one can be tough for me, I'll admit. Sometimes, I just want black and white answers. It would be so much easier! But people - they can not be put in a box. We are all so unique. None of us have gone through the same situation and even when circumstances are similar, people respond differently... it's so complicated! I know for myself right now, I've been struggling through this. I just want God to tell me step by step what I'm supposed to do in a certain situation. All he is saying to me is, Allison don't look for answers, just look to me. I'm wrestling through this; at times I am totally surrendered and then other moments I slip into my human weakness and try to "solve" before it's time...

I must walk patiently with people right where they are not where I want them to be. I may have an idea of where I want them to go - the best way to get from point a to point b but it's not about my plan or my agenda. If they need to loop around a few times and go up and down then I have to be patient and open to doing that with them. The "indirect route" may be the one they need to take in order to dig deeper into their heart. I have to keep in mind it's not about fixing people. Fixing behavior doesn't go to the heart - the heart is what must be engaged and healed for real change to occur.

Overall I was reminded after this week that it's not about what I think is best for a person. One thing could have worked for me or someone else but it doesn't always mean that answer is the best. In our uniqueness, God leads and guides uniquely. Dependency on The Counselor aka, Holy Spirit is where I must rest. Tim gave some practical ways of taking the counseling off of ourselves and pointing people to Jesus. I have tried this myself in the last few weeks and it's been incredible what has happened...

As we seek to understand or help a person understand what they have gone through or how situations affected them we can guide them through prayers like these;

Jesus, show me where you were when ____ happened

Jesus, show me how you felt when I went through ____

Jesus, show me your heart for so and so

There are many other ways to word these prayers but there is something powerful in asking Jesus to give us a word, or a picture, or scripture, whatever as we seek to understand his heart in our pain. My mentor guided me through some of this last month and I was amazed at what God showed me - it was definitely not something I would've come up with on my own. Those images took root in me, giving me deeper compassion and grace where I once was bitter and wounded.

(9/23/11)

Pursuing Oneness

2011-10-24T22:14:00.002+03:00

Whenever Holly and I talk, a million thoughts begin to flood my mind. She is always questing, searching for purpose, meaning, and understanding in life and faith. Iron sharpening Iron - that defines our relationship.

While I was away this past weekend we were FINALLY able to do a thorough video chat - gosh it was long overdue! Anyway, of course we got into deep issues of the heart and God - and like most every conversation her and I have, I walk away with new thoughts and perspective.

I've been doing a lot of thinking lately about how our lives are really for purposes that extend beyond ourselves. That God has created me to be part of the bigger story he is writing and yet how often I get so wrapped up in the little world that I live in.

Holly began sharing something that she's been coming to along the same lines recently, regarding our individual strengths and gifts - that even these weren't given to us just for ourselves but rather to extend outward. I had never thought of it this way but I love it. I love how it's intention is to connect us. God was so purposeful in doing it this way (obviously!)- desiring to bring us to unity with one another; where one is weak another is strong. He created us to need one another.

I had always viewed the unity in terms of the way we serve; our roles. Some are teachers, some pastors, some evangelize, others are in leadership positions, while others work "behind the scenes", etc. Holly gave the example of my faith coming alongside her when hers feels weak. Never did I think that my faith, the faith God gave me, was meant for others to share; to be poured out to those around me. It's meant to reveal God's glory and greatness to each one I'm walking with so that they in turn can have a greater glimpse of the character of our Creator.

As I mentioned above, one of Holly's greatest strengths is her questing for meaning and purpose - living life out with great intention and passion. This is SO not natural for me and I attribute a lot of this in my life to her... as she seeks to gain greater insight into who God is and how to live for him and how to live among his people - her thoughts awaken something in me that I would not easily get to on my own - drawing me up into the greater story with God, outside of my own little story. It really is an amazing thing when you think about it... How God created each of us so uniquely but had in mind for us to share our lives with one another so that we function as a strong body...

Rarely is this depth of unity lived out in the greater Christian community. It takes humility and vulnerability to admit where we are weak and call upon the strength of others to meet us. I want to live in this oneness. I want to be experience life as it was made to be. I just imagine it ...

(9/19/11)

Life In The Bush: Weekend Get-Aways

2011-10-24T22:12:00.002+03:00

Sometimes, you just need to escape village life...

Last week we had a 4 day weekend for our Institute Break and Jennie and I had been planning all along to go to the American Club. But, things came up - like friend's having babies, so we decided to wait till this past weekend.

Driving up to our destination, the gates open and suddenly it's like we've stepped out of Uganda and we are in a place so familiar to home... well... for the most part. There are always little things that keep you saying, wait, this is still Africa!

The menu's are full of American style foods, the bedrooms have fans and candies on the pillow before bed, showers have temps that you can adjust, bathmats on the floor, and nicely scented hand soap, there is a workout room, a big trampoline, tennis courts, a pool, ping pong tables...

It's the little pleasures of life that you go without for awhile, forgetting they used to be so commonplace. And then you arrive at a place like this and just sigh and soak it all in as if for the very first time.

I took about 6 showers in 48 hours time - because, I could. It isn't everyday I get a warm shower and I realized how unclean I really was from months of splash baths! Maybe you didn't need that detail ;)

The first night, something caught my eye in the shower and I took a closer look to see that I was showering with a snail. This is Africa.

Mornings I spent sitting under the cabana by the pool reading and enjoying a nice continental breakfast...

It was more like a 4 course breakfast. My fruit came out first. Then 10 minutes later, my hot chocolate. 5 minutes later my pancakes. then 20 minutes later... toast. So strange, toast isn't that hard to make, is it? This is Africa - another reminder...

Saturday afternoon I hit up the flea market that is held every month at the American Club. I gravitated towards the beaded jewelry of course, I'm a sucker for it I tell ya! I also stopped at a booth to look at baby clothes for all my pregnant friends and my ears perked up immediately. I over heard the lady who was selling at this spot say, "someone has already Bawght that"... could it be a fellow New Yorker here in Kamapala? I purchased my things and then said, "you're from New York aren't you?! Your accent is giving you away, I feel like I'm at home" We went on to have friendly small talk and found out that she's also from Long Island, not far from where I grew up.

I was so looking forward to time poolside with a book so after the flea market I headed to the room to get ready, grabbed a lawn chair and ordered lunch. Immediately, the storm clouds came rolling in, daring me to stick to my plan. I ate my delicious lunch - hummus, guacamole, and salsa on toast with a salad - but the rain won out and I never made it to the pool that day - I tried but as soon as I left the protection of the awning it came down even harder, telling me to back off!

Wouldn't it happen that just as we were checking out, the sun came, breaking up the clouds making today a perfect pool day :/ next time...

The time came and went, but it was just what we needed! Till the next get-away... now, back to the land of simplicity!

(9/18/11)

Defeating Dragons

2011-10-24T22:11:00.001+03:00

I have been slow and prayerful about my involvement since returning to New Hope. Mainly my focus at this point is the class I'm going through. It is for training and equipping individuals to work in ministry - specifically with orphans, but it is so much more than that. It's been more like - heart surgery. Healing the wounds of culture, relationships, self-deception...

The exciting thing is, as my heart is being healed and set free I'm encountering the wild, passionate love of God. I see how he is "drawing me into something grand and good that he is doing. It doesn't rest on my shoulders, it doesn't culminate in me but rather invites me up into it"... (Quote from Sacred Romance)

Where was I going with all of this? let me try to connect...

As I see God's heart with a little more clarity, I realize how he pursues redemption, relationship, and intimacy with his people, and... he wants us to live like that with one another. Since being back I've been praying for God to lead my relationships with the girls in my family group - to show me who specifically he wants me to pour myself into. It's taken time, it is still a very challenging group of girls with deep heart wounds, but I'm seeking supernatural strength because I know on my own, I can do nothing...

In time, God has been joining my heart to two girls in particular. They are at different places in life but both seem to be feeling very similar things. And doesn't God have a funny way of working, both are dealing with emotions that I have been finding healing in - I'd say this isn't a coincidence!

The counseling week I had a few weeks ago has been coming in handy as I'm applying practical tips in conversation, seeking to hear their heart and walk with them one step closer to Jesus.

I share this because I'm seeking prayer. Dealing with hearts takes the work of the Holy Spirit, not Allison, and I want to move sensitively in these relationships. I don't want to be like Job's friends, speaking their own wisdom that in the end made God angry.

Fairy tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragon's exist but because they tell us dragons can be beaten. G.K. Chesterton

Pray that the "dragons" fighting to take their hearts would be defeated and that they would put all their trust and hope in the one who fights for them.

(9//17/11)

Life In The Bush: Skype, Quotes, and Downpours

2011-10-24T22:10:00.001+03:00

I. video skyped. for an hour, twice - this is huge! The MTN network has really been working in my favor the last few days . The only thing was... the delay was kind of nuts. It really teaches patience and good listening. The faces would freeze for awhile and I'd wait for a reaction for close to 20 seconds. I won't complain though, it was so great to feel like we were in the same room.

funny quote from class this week: (again, hearing it with the accent makes it a whole lot funnier)

"Food can get us so excited. The moment we smell it, the blood starts running well."

I probably loved this because I totally agree, food gets me very excited too!

Names here are often chosen for meaning, not what sounds good. When Sam and Irene found out they had a girl and not a boy they had to brainstorm a new name. The boy name chosen was Emmanuel, God with us. After some discussion they decided on Grace - which is perfect for their story! The night before she delivered Sam told Jennie and I that we too had to come up with a name for their baby because those close to that child often choose a name. We didn't take him serious, we just smiled. The next day he asked us again to think of a name. "What, you're serious?" we thought. I jumped on google to find baby names and meanings and Jennie did her research - this was a lot of pressure! We presented our 2 choices to the couple and they liked Abigail meaning "The Father's Joy". I loved that they gave us this honor to name their child!

Sometimes it seems as if nature is intentionally working against me. Three different times I was going to take a nice long walk to the hospital to visit Irene; I'd step outside and, as if on cue, the rain clouds would come rolling in and drip, drip, whoosh - full on down pour! I'm tellin you...

Running through the village always brings about a story, here's another...

I went running on a school morning this past week. All the children walk, so I passed by many towards the end of my time. I still feel incredibly awkward being stared at up and down by the children but I try to act like this is totally normal. Anyway, there were two cuties in particular that decided they wanted to join me. They were in 1st and 3rd grade, brother and sister. As I ran past them they picked up their pace and we ran together for a good 7 or 8 minutes. They were holding bundles of sticks (for school) and their backpacks trying to keep up. The little man was struggling so I took his load and he ran freely... for a few minutes. He then tripped on a rock and bit the dust. I felt terrible! We helped him up, brushed him off and ran a little longer before we parted ways. I wonder what they tell their friends when they get to school...

(9/12/11)

Baby

2011-10-24T22:09:00.002+03:00

Meet Baby ____

All along we were anticipating little boy, Emmanuel. In the final moments everyone was saying, "Come on little boy, come on". Next words I hear on the other side of the curtain.. "it's a girl!"

the name is to be determined.

Here she is...

It was a long long, many hours... I arrived at the hospital around 4pm but she had already been here for several hours prior. Jennie, Sam, and I tag teamed caring for Irene - scratching her back, not scratching her back, getting her tea, walking, holding her hand... it was crazy, don't have any other word for it at the moment. It was my first "birth experience" - I just watched feeling helpless most times, silently praying for supernatural strength. She did amazing though.

The bedside manner (or lack there of) really shocked me. I had been told it's not the best but to hear it with my own ears made me pretty annoyed. The advice was always to give her more and more tea. One nurse even said "have you taken tea? I see you haven't taken much, that is ALL I care about seeing right now." Is tea really the most important thing in this moment?!!

Anyway, it was an experience for sure. I was glad I was able to stand with my sister friend

exhausted and cold, this is what happens...

was i seriously walking around the hospital looking like this? like I don't stand out enough already.

(9/8/11)

Life In The Bush: Bugs, Gum, and Funny Sayings

2011-10-24T22:07:00.004+03:00

Like every other morning - I woke up, stepped out of bed, gathered my mosquito net and tied it up. I went about my daily activities. All was good. I went to my room later on and stood frozen in my tracks as I looked up at my net. There laying belly up was a cockroach the size of my pointer finger. It wasn't dead though, just stuck. The rest of the day I ignored it for fear of actually having to kill it! Cockroaches seem to have personalities, it weirds me out. I kept envisioning myself pulling the net down, prepared to whack it with a shoe but freaking out instead, leaving the roach to run free into my belongings! Evening finally came and I had to knock on my neighbor's door for support. Mamma Keddi came to the rescue as all mother's do. She came in with her flashlight reached her BARE hand up into my net and grabbed that nasty bug! Holding it between her thumb and pointer she kept saying in her accent, "this is not good. this is NOT good. these live in the toilet. it is not good". She took it outside, dropped it in the grass and stomped it with her shoe. WOW. brave woman!

I heard a song the other day and loved it so I had to download it. My friend told me the whole CD was amazing so I thought, why not splurge this month and buy the CD... I never do that! well,5 hours later... the CD FINALLY downloaded. This is Africa. At least I got the CD and thankfully power was on the whole time. Lessons in patience are everywhere I turn here!

The other morning it was attack of the bugs in my hut. They were shimmying their way through the tiny crack between the door and the ground. But this type of insect that kept making its way through is one of my least favorite here. I don't know what they are called but they have worm like bodies with wings and they fly as if they are intoxicated; bouncing off walls at record breaking speeds. I was ready for them. After a little struggle they would finally make it through the door and then... wham, meet the sole of my shoe!

Gum. If it is left sitting out even though it's still in its wrapper and packaging it gets soggy. So bizarre. I can get part of it out of the wrapper and the other part I scrape off with my teeth...

I love the funny phrases I hear in conversation. My Ugandan classmate said to me the other day... "I saw you disturbing the muscles today." I was so confused, "you what? what does that mean?" He repeated and I continued to be confused. Finally he said, running, you were running today. The muscles were relaxing and said "why are you disturbing us, we don't want to move?" OH, now I gotcha. We had a good laugh over the miscommunication, that's for sure.

I saw the cutest thing the other day! A few of my young neighbor's were playing outside on a hot day. The twin boys (2 1/2) were running around naked after taking a bath outside and the two little girls were kneeling over the basin of water. Something they said caught my attention and I listened in to their play... the one girl must have been saying a prayer for her friend and what I heard was, "we pray a blessing over Gertrude in Jesus Name" and the two said, "amen" - the next thing I see, Doreen is taking water from the basin and sprinkling it over Gertrude's head, baptizing her... how precious?!

In the states all the mannequins are stick thin, no curves whatsoever! Not here...far from it! It's pretty hilarious actually. Gazing out the window this weekend on the way to Kampala I had to laugh to myself at the contrast between Ugandan and American mannequins. Here they have your average size upper body and then, BAM... hips like whoa. This is beauty, no shame in the curves! I tried to grab my camera fast enough to have a visual for this comment but no such luck. Maybe next time...

I was stuck in a short time warp this weekend... 1989. In a store picking up some photos my friend printed this weekend, my ears perked up to the song on the radio. Could it be MC Hammer? U Can't Touch This was definitely playing on the store radio. Very random.

Oh, To Be An African Woman!

2011-10-24T22:07:00.003+03:00

In class last week we were discussing the scripture that talks about being "the salt of the earth". It says "...but if the salt loses its saltiness how can it be made salty again?" What does that mean? how does salt lose saltiness? I have never experienced bad salt before or salt that didn't do it's job so this scripture was confusing for many of us...

Irene then begins to describe a type of salt that is made in her village that does lose its saltiness. It's a process of taking a certain type of leaves and burning them down to ash. Next you put the ash in a container with holes on the bottom, making a sieve. You place that container in a small bowl and then pour water over the ash. What drips out of the bottom is the salt. Can I say again that I love the diversity in my class... so many new insights!

It was time for Allison to have another cultural experience.

I set out for Irene and Sam's to check this salt out for myself; taste it, cook with it, and see how it is made.

Irene was an excellent (and patient!) teacher - we set out for some serious cooking. Dinner prep took about 3 hours. Here's the process she took me through, (I have a much deeper respect for African women!)...

1. De-shell the ground nuts - a full basin of them

2. peel the sweet potatoes - using a knife, not a handy potato peeler like I"m used to, I was a bit slow

3. make salt - looks delicious, huh?!!?

4. cut up and dry out the greens

5. fry the ground nuts

6. cook the greens

7. take the skin off the ground nuts

***random fact about the basket I'm holding:

It's made of sticks and a special agent that keeps the sticks together, any guess...?

Cow manure. Nice huh? don't you want to dig into the ground nuts now?!

8. pound the ground nuts until it turns to peanut butter consistency.

***This was the hardest task of all, I was pounding for 20-30 minutes. I broke out into a nice little sweat, my lower back felt that the next day! I may get more domestic and start making my own peanut butter from now on... :)

9. add the ground nut paste to the greens

10. cook the sweet potatoes.

11. Eat. FINALLY!

it was quite the ordeal... imagine doing this every night.

I just tasted the life of an African woman. I didn't even have to cut the greens from the garden, fetch water from the bore hole, cut the fire wood for cooking... Irene warned me those jobs are for next time. What have I gotten myself into?! i kind of love it...

**By the way - as I write this I'm in the hospital because Irene is in labor! Baby coming soon!!

(9/7/11)

Journey of the Heart

2011-10-24T22:05:00.004+03:00

It is in this desert experience of the heart, where we are stripped of the protective clothing of the roles we have played in our smaller stories, that the Message of the Arrows reasserts itself. Healing, repentance, and faith are called for in ways we have not known previously. At this place on our journey, we face a wide and deep chasm that refuses us passage through self-effort. And it is God’s intention to use this place to eradicate the final heart walls and obstacles that separate us from him

I will go before you

And will level the mountains;

I will break down gates of bronze

And cut through bars of iron.

I will give you the treasures of darkness,

Riches stored in secret places,

So that you may know that I am the Lord,

The God of Israel, who summons you by name (Isa. 45:2-3)

This imagery of going before us lets us know that he desires us to go on a journey… Not realizing it is a journey of the heart that is called for, we make a crucial mistake. We come to a place in our spiritual life where we hear God calling us. We know he is calling us to give up the "less-wild lovers" that have become so much a part of our identity, embrace our nakedness, and trust in his goodness.

I grabbed "Sacred Romance" off the bookshelf yesterday and flipped to the chapter called Less-Wild Lovers after Keith mentioned it in class. I was curious what it had to say. I read that above quote and was captivated. More than ever before, the last 2 months have been just what the author describes - a desert experience of the heart. I am laid bare before the Lord crying out for him to search me and know me. To know my anxious thoughts. To test me and see if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.

Here's a glimpse into my journey of the heart.

Class continues to open doors that were closed in my heart as we move through each topic. One by One I am being confronted by what is hidden in each room.

The first held pain and unforgiveness that I believed would never go away - better to contain it, pretend it's not there, and keep working on the other areas that I could "control". That wasn't working out so well... It's clear now that the emotional pain had unknowingly seeped through the door and enslaved me, the one supposedly holding the power. yea, not so much...

Door number 2 I never knew existed. There were times I thought I heard noises coming from it but I pretended it was all in my head. To validate what I thought I heard would mean exposing wounds that were created by someone that wasn't supposed to hurt me. I was holding false peace. During the counseling week, we were challenged to be more aware of what was going on inside of us as we related to people. I gave it a try, discovering some strong emotion rise within me in conversation one day. I stopped immediately outside of this door and for the first time listened to the shouts from that room. what they were saying broke me... yet identifying it, releasing the pain inflicted, and bringing it to the cross has brought lightness and freedom...

Those are just a few places God has exposed. I will have more doors to open, places where God will want to confront me, pain He will want me to surrender, false truth He'll want to release me of. One step at a time, one day at a time, I'll continue to walk...

I'll end with one more part of the chapter, Less - Wild Lovers that I was inspired by...

As we stand at the intersection of God's calling, we look down two highways that appear to travel in very different directions. The first path, the one few travel down explains, "each heart has its own turns and necessary overnights. Only God knows where your road leads. But come ahead. The journey is purifying and the destination is good. Don't be afraid of embracing the disappointment you feel, old or new. Don't be scared of the unreasonable joy either. They're the highway markers home. I've gone on ahead. Yours Truly".

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I -

I took the one less traveled by,

and that has made all the difference.

We strike off down the road feeling much more alive than we have in a while. We are clueless as to how we will cross the abyss but we feel a gladness to be on our way...

Life In The Bush: Fruit, Head Lamps, and Wrestling

2011-10-24T22:05:00.003+03:00

pineapples. are. incredible. for some reason they are just super delicious here. and... incredibly cheap!

and the bananas...my, they are addicting. they are so small and sweet. you peel and pop 'em in your mouth. next thing you know you've eaten the whole bunch...oops :/

break time.

i love this time of day. everyone stops at 10:30 for about 30 minutes (or longer... this is Africa where relationship trumps time!) to "take tea" and have a snack. it's just good to stop life and make sure you are taking time to be with one another.

head lamps.

thank you to whoever invented this handy gadget. i use it daily. reading in bed, dark pit latrine excursions, washing dishes in the dark, cooking, walking home at night... it has become a part of me!

Crazy cultural difference...

We've been going through biblical manhood and womanhood in class this week. One of my classmates shared this story about culture's view of a good woman. I listened with my mouth opened wide!

Ugandan men are looking for a strong woman. This strength is tested before officially getting married. Here's how the story went... before my classmate's brother could marry a certain woman she had to conquer the task of fetching water at a far bore hole, carrying a heavy clay pot on her head. She set out on the journey. She was about to arrive back when the pot fell and broke. "OK... we'll give her one more try" they said. She again is on her way back and just near a neighbors house, oops, she dropped it again. The members of the family hung their heads and nodded in disapproval. They called a family meeting discussing whether this really was a good match. How can you marry this woman who can't complete this task?!

Thank goodness I don't have to go through that!

On the flip side, in another tribe in Uganda men have to prove their strength to their woman through a wrestling match. He doesn't wrestle the woman's father or brother or uncle though, the man must wrestle... the woman that he wants to marry! WHAT?! If she beats him then this isn't really a good man...

I'm curious what this would look like!

That's all for this week :)

(8/30/11)

Introduction

2011-10-24T22:03:00.001+03:00

This introduction was so fascinating to me. I have never been a part of anything like this before so I just mentally captured the whole day in my mind! As I mentioned in my last post we arrived late but in reality, we were still early... ah, I love Africa!

Now, keep in mind that this was my first introduction so i'm no expert at explaining the event. Plus the whole ceremony was in another language so I had to ask friends what was going on most of the time... and they didn't always know either because of different tribal traditions! Christine asked me to be her photographer so i was up in all of the action, most of the time I was asking my friend Eric what I needed to be getting pictures of, here are a few. I'll try my best to explain :)

The visitors from the man's side all wait to come in together. They line up and then they are pinned with a ribbon to show they are visitors.

Basically the whole event seemed to be a lot of charades and drama... as if the man and his family don't know who the fiance is; they are acting out trying to find her. First a group of young girls come dancing out in front of the guests. The sisters came out and carefully looked at each one. Then they conclude that, no, these girls are too young; the fiance is not in this group. They dance away...

Enter next group of women.

A little older this time - same thing happens. The sisters (in the red dresses) are inspecting once again. Nope, Christine isn't here... where could she be?!!?

Is she in this group??!

Wait a minute, they look a little too old, she can't be in this group! It must just be her aunties... hmmm, let's keep looking.

(imagine me reading this as if I'm reading a children's book... that's the effect I"m going for)

some of our younger introduction attendees...

Wait a second! This could be her. Let's look carefully. I have a good feeling about this group...

I think she's the one in the bright blue gomesi with the jewels on her head. WOW, she's beautiful, that must be her! Let's be sure though, give her a proper look...

yep, it's her!! Let's dance around now and celebrate, we found her!

Ladies exit...

wardrobe change.

Now Christine must search high and low among the groom's visitors to find this man who will soon be her husband.

She carefully roams the isles... until...there he is!!!

3rd wardrobe change

She has found her man.

While they were smiling together I ran off with the father's and uncles to get in on this...

Giving of the bride price.

Simon's family is giving Christine's family cows and goats in exchange for Christine. Talk about a cultural experience for me! I was up in this action, got a little too close to one of the cows in hopes of a good picture!

The bride's side

This part was similar to the bride and groom tossing a bouquet and garter.

Christine was to toss an apple and the guy to catch it was to be the one she married. The 3 men got ready. Simon threw a few elbows :) Christine was about to toss...

but...

she ran to Simon and put it in his hands. She only had eyes for him! I love the guy in the pink shirts expression

cake cutting and then a sneaky surprise... sprayed with ... actually I don't know what it was but it smelled good!

After cake is served visitor's from the man's side went out and brought back gifts to present to the couple.

I had to get a photo with the soon to be bride and her friend!

more friends... Eric and Cathy

I had a great time, really. I found myself retreating into the background when I wasn't taking pictures, feeling as if I was invisible and simply given the privilege to view this event. It felt like an out of the body experience. I kept thinking to myself, I can't believe I'm here, in the middle of a remote village in Uganda, amongst these people, experiencing their world with them! I felt really humbled...

(8/22/11)