Arrival in Uganda
I arrived at Entebbe International Airport before sunrise after a 36-hour journey on August 16th. I was met at the airport by the Director HCCP and my daughter, Rose. Even though the fatigue was great, Uganda and the reunion with my friends revitalized me. The ride to Fred’s house just outside of Kampala brought back many wonderful memories. The smell, the vegetation so lush and green, and the people walking along the roadside made me feel quite at home.
I was left to put my things away, shower, and take a short nap. Rachel joined me in my nap. I was home in my home away from home. Familiar sounds and people added to my comfort.
The following two days I had my hair braided in over 250 small braids. I do this because it is much easier to care for when braided. This process takes two days, 14 hours each day. This amount of time is good since that is exactly the amount of time I need to start acclimating to the time change. During the process I was able to play with the girls, Kyalimpa and Rachel. They are so delightfully funny. They are each other’s best friends.
The best part of this time was that I got to spend time with Rose. Last year when I left Rose in boarding school, she could not speak English, did not look people in the eye, and hardly ever laughed. Now, after a year, Rose speaks English well enough to translate for her mother and me (Desolanta is the woman braiding my hair and Rose’s mother), and is very engaging.
These two days were a wonderful time of settling in. I was able to renew
old friendships and explore new ones. This is a wonderful and very caring
family. I was blessed to be here with them.
Kyalimpa and Rachel
My Ugandan daughter Rose
My hair with braids
Rose
