HI again,
I must say, I thought I could post better at home...not the case...I have been upside down!! Turned around with the time zone and in a fog. The night I returned I thought it would be slick....Kenny picks me up at the airport, could just go to sleep for the night after getting off the plane at 10:30 PM...well good and fine except for the awake cycle in the mid night. I should know better right?
The following day was a deadline for World Water Day.
So, I placed my carefully cared for drivers licence, cards, etc. in my brand new purse from Uganda (carefully guarded in Africa..no problem)...and proceded to drive downtown to two places..the insurance company and the city of billings office..that is all! Well....all was lost. Drove back twice..then in the brain fog..gave up and went home to sleep. The lost was forgotten as I really needed sleep! Next day to work for 3 1/2 twelve hour shifts in a row. I wanted to sleep so badly at 4pm every day...would get off at midnight and then was up at 5 am!! Oh my..yet I made it through. Also, our church had a dinner and auction for Uganda and the founder of Far Reaching Ministries, Wes Bentley speaking on Saturday night...amazing and I love his wife so much..they help all in so many aspects.
Good old grandma...(she only woke up enough to eat 5 chocolates I brought her!).
Another day...so...Jeff, and all..taking it easy? Yes, I know I promised or you tried to make me promise or you at least prayed ...for me and all would be less.
Well through the week, amazingly...I have been extremely calm about the storm, including.... now the furnace had gone out and a water was leaking downstairs...
They were like..how long has this heat been out...I said, " Well, you know, I have been in Africa for 6 weeks and it was "solar cooker oven hot..to the tune of 100 degrees" and since I have been home..it is freezing no matter how one feels or looks at it..your 50 degrees, 37 degrees..it'a all cold to me. So when I am on a long, work stretch I cannot be accurate on when the heat may have gone out...I am just in survival mode once again. I just don't know.
This all reminds me and places into focus...the really.. and the reality..and the " Hey...what up?"//. God is giving me more challenges and Satan is trying to ruin the good...so..I am grateful for the challenges, and happy I will not be swayed to the darkness and am so thankful this re-entry is fully ready with battery charged energy as I really need it! No chances for the negative...got it you guys have carried me.
God's blessings,
Nadine
PS: My drivers license and cards, etc. have been deposited in a couple post office boxes througout Billings and have been recoverd! Still missing one check..but oh well, it is all still amazing anything is recovered.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Thank You Grace Bible Team and Families!
Feb 14,15
We made it to Amsterdam! The flight was good. I am surprisingly more rested than I ever remember being on this leg of the previous trips! This is a good thing, as I have a long lay over and no airport lounge or Yostel to stay in this time! The airport lounge in Entebbe was a treat however, (new to me…thanks Brian!) and the hot shower, which I am sure is the saving grace! Otherwise I/we would have continued on in the red caked dirt on our skin, clothes and hair…so grimy on the plane!! It is amazing the small things one becomes thankful and grateful over after living in the remote areas of Africa! I actually ate real western food (salami ciabatta, croissant, brie cheese) and coffee this am! The guys are off to Amsterdam for the day/night even if it is 5:30 am! I am so grateful for them…they carried me the last week…literally! And accomplished so so much! Their servent hearts, hard work, dedication and resilience in this foreign land is a true testament of missionaries!
Just wait till you see all the beards and you will reallze they did without most of the time…without water, food, clean clothes, lights, communication access…and definitely there was no comfort in sleeping/resting or travelling! Yet, I don’t think I barely heard a complaint! There was a lot of smiles and laughter and singing and praising and praying! Their sacrifice and yours (families at home) sacrifice was apparent and a huge gift. Thank You!! It was an honor and joy to serve with this Grace Bible Church team, Brian, Rooster, Don, Jeff and Nate! Their gifts and talents were amazingly balanced and matched…and so easy for me as they manage themselves, are flexible, movtivated and self starters, gracious, generous, respectful and get along wonderfully! I sure learned a lot and was immensely blessed! It was a joy and a blessing having young Nate on the trip…I think he is our first teen/young adult! He definitely blessed the young African boys/men…Geoffrey, Bosco, Jackson, Dennis and the rest… plus I wasn’t so homesick for my kids…got to mother a little! What a great attitude even when not feeling well …Fantastic!
Our last night on the farm before leaving…we sang and praised the Lord. Jeff is an amazing worship leader and his rhythm section of Africans and Americans are sounds to behold! (except for me who has no rhythm or tune!) It is very apparent…” Across the African plains…God Reigns!” We give all the glory and paise to Him.
Thank You from the depths of my heart! May you all be richly blessed!
Nadine
PS: I will try to right more about history of certain areas, so you are more informed…I am sure there is lots of wonder and questions. Everything all moves so fast (or rather slow may be the better description !) for us on the ground and the lights go out early if any…so there is not always much time to expand…so stay tuned.
We made it to Amsterdam! The flight was good. I am surprisingly more rested than I ever remember being on this leg of the previous trips! This is a good thing, as I have a long lay over and no airport lounge or Yostel to stay in this time! The airport lounge in Entebbe was a treat however, (new to me…thanks Brian!) and the hot shower, which I am sure is the saving grace! Otherwise I/we would have continued on in the red caked dirt on our skin, clothes and hair…so grimy on the plane!! It is amazing the small things one becomes thankful and grateful over after living in the remote areas of Africa! I actually ate real western food (salami ciabatta, croissant, brie cheese) and coffee this am! The guys are off to Amsterdam for the day/night even if it is 5:30 am! I am so grateful for them…they carried me the last week…literally! And accomplished so so much! Their servent hearts, hard work, dedication and resilience in this foreign land is a true testament of missionaries!
Just wait till you see all the beards and you will reallze they did without most of the time…without water, food, clean clothes, lights, communication access…and definitely there was no comfort in sleeping/resting or travelling! Yet, I don’t think I barely heard a complaint! There was a lot of smiles and laughter and singing and praising and praying! Their sacrifice and yours (families at home) sacrifice was apparent and a huge gift. Thank You!! It was an honor and joy to serve with this Grace Bible Church team, Brian, Rooster, Don, Jeff and Nate! Their gifts and talents were amazingly balanced and matched…and so easy for me as they manage themselves, are flexible, movtivated and self starters, gracious, generous, respectful and get along wonderfully! I sure learned a lot and was immensely blessed! It was a joy and a blessing having young Nate on the trip…I think he is our first teen/young adult! He definitely blessed the young African boys/men…Geoffrey, Bosco, Jackson, Dennis and the rest… plus I wasn’t so homesick for my kids…got to mother a little! What a great attitude even when not feeling well …Fantastic!
Our last night on the farm before leaving…we sang and praised the Lord. Jeff is an amazing worship leader and his rhythm section of Africans and Americans are sounds to behold! (except for me who has no rhythm or tune!) It is very apparent…” Across the African plains…God Reigns!” We give all the glory and paise to Him.
Thank You from the depths of my heart! May you all be richly blessed!
Nadine
PS: I will try to right more about history of certain areas, so you are more informed…I am sure there is lots of wonder and questions. Everything all moves so fast (or rather slow may be the better description !) for us on the ground and the lights go out early if any…so there is not always much time to expand…so stay tuned.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
FANTASTIC!!!
Eleven days ago we landed and got the shock of humidity in Entebbe. Being greeted by some amazing locals and our fearless leader Nadine. Stayed the night in a hotel in Entebbe and headed into the deadly streets of Kampala the next morning. Me (nate), Nadine, and two of the locals, "Action Jackson" and Prichard headed to the place where the container was stored, and the rest of the guys headed into the deadly maze of the city to look for parts for the solar project. After the container Dilema was solved we headed back to town and met the others and headed off the the farm outside of Masindi. The people at the farm were amazing, and greeted us with a local song and dinner. After Meeting and greeting everyone from the farm they showed us to our hut and we tried to fall asleep, but this was a difficult task due to Brians snoring. The rest of the time on the farm was great, they fed us well and did everything possible to make us comfortable. Vbs went great, due to Jeff and his "organized chaos" called Shepherd and lion. We left the farm and made our way to the Kalongo hospital where we the hilarious local nuns took care of us. Over the next few days we somehow installed an x-ray machine with some help from god, and got a processor up and running. Jeff did some much needed Ultrasound work for the doctors, and on the last day we had a feast fit for a king prepared by the nuns. complete with live music and dancing by the students of the local girls school. We spent the last day back at the farm and ended the trip with some great worship. This trip really couldn't have gone any better!
-Nate
-Nate
Saturday, February 13, 2010
the trip from Kalongo to Masindi
We spent our last night at Kalongo last night. The sisters and all of the students had an amazing ceremony honoring and thanking us. Some local girls did local dancing. We ate two feasts, one with the students and one with the sisters! I was so touched I really can't describe it. They have had almost no help from the outside most of the years of the war. They were so greatfull! The today we got up and travelled to Masindi and back to the farm. I love these people so much. And I am overwhelmed with a sense that nearly all of my prayers from three years ago have been answered. An orphanage that was just one room with thirty children in it now has a new building with their own well. A baby boy who was on deaths doorstep three years ago with HIV is now a happy, hearty kid. The people of Kitgum who seemed so filled with fear and despair back then are happy, working building new homes and buildings. I just praise God in all his glory and thank Him with all of my heart.
Brian
Brian
Friday, February 12, 2010
flinging photons in Kolongo,(xrays)
wow what a day, God showed up thats for sure. yesterday wewere able to get the x-ray film processor up and working, films looked great but not so much for the xray machine. We had error codes we did not know what do to with and were very frustraded. But Don Russell, whome may i say worked miracles in figuring out wiring for this thing,had made a contact in the states before we left with a man who worked on these old machines and told us to call him if we needed help, so we did. HE E-MAILED US BACK THE ANSWERE he knew exactly what was going on so this morning we got right to it and sure enough the error code left but still no exposure from the unit and now a new error and we did not have clue.
we are leaving Sat morn so we were getting nervous the last thing we wanted to do was leave without this thing working. We e-mailed him again but it was 1230 in the AM and did not think we would get a resoponse till late in the day when it might be to late. We recieved a e-mail from our pastor, Chris Hallock, earlier in the morning and he reminded us to not to forget to pray because when you get busy that tends to happen. so we stopped and we prayed we didn't no what else to do, funny how God does that to you, we finished praying and don recived an e- mail stating that this guy had stayed up late and to give him a call so we did and low and behold he had the answer and we went back to the dept. made the change and we now have working machine. God is awesome. We are all so relieved and thankful so the x-ray machine and processor are working well, once again we learn to depend on God instead of ourselves, thank goodness.
The school here gave us welcome and thankyou celebration, they sang and danced and fe4d us it was great they are so warm and friendly and so greatful for everything, a great lesson for us all. WE are all wearing out a bit and are looking forward to seeing our families but will never forget this time and hope to repeat it sometime in the near future. We head baCK TO THE FARM TOMORROW then to crazy Kampala on Sunday and a day in Amsterdame on Monday and home late tuesday night. Thankyou all for your prayers
Be God's
Jeff
we are leaving Sat morn so we were getting nervous the last thing we wanted to do was leave without this thing working. We e-mailed him again but it was 1230 in the AM and did not think we would get a resoponse till late in the day when it might be to late. We recieved a e-mail from our pastor, Chris Hallock, earlier in the morning and he reminded us to not to forget to pray because when you get busy that tends to happen. so we stopped and we prayed we didn't no what else to do, funny how God does that to you, we finished praying and don recived an e- mail stating that this guy had stayed up late and to give him a call so we did and low and behold he had the answer and we went back to the dept. made the change and we now have working machine. God is awesome. We are all so relieved and thankful so the x-ray machine and processor are working well, once again we learn to depend on God instead of ourselves, thank goodness.
The school here gave us welcome and thankyou celebration, they sang and danced and fe4d us it was great they are so warm and friendly and so greatful for everything, a great lesson for us all. WE are all wearing out a bit and are looking forward to seeing our families but will never forget this time and hope to repeat it sometime in the near future. We head baCK TO THE FARM TOMORROW then to crazy Kampala on Sunday and a day in Amsterdame on Monday and home late tuesday night. Thankyou all for your prayers
Be God's
Jeff
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Kicked Out of Xray - on my way to Kitgum!
Hi all,
We are doing just fine! The guys are working hard and have made a lot of progress and have some more they are working on!
I thought I'd relay a funny tale...
When we left the farm to head to Kalongo, I warned them it would be a long day...
and we would have to leave very early. Well as it is in Africa time..we were very late leaving. The cows would not load..and Brian was out helping Richard (which led to his tub being left behind!) . The guys were ready but then Richard wasn't ready...so on it went. Then the kids came with their uniforms on for school...so of course we had to take them to school in our bus with their new clothes and backpacks! They all wore their Jesus bracelelts and definitely stood out amongst the others in the smartest new clothes and shoes! Well this lead to even later. Finally we got on the road...
Good thing they brought their beef jerky and trail mix! We arrived Pajule and then on to Awal IDP camp where Nancy and Bosco family are from. I had promised them a visit every year with news of the kids when I started their adoption process a few years back..so in keeping with my word, it lead us a few hours off the beaten path the Kalongo. Suzan and I wanted to attempt a short cut. Richard and the guys, esp Richard thought we should go the road we know, which was another 3 hour journey around !
Bosco and Nancy's family were okay, but very remote. They are struggling with the drought affecting their ability to have enough food so were malnourished and some sickness. The plow was still there from last year and some seeds...this year we brought the 2 oxen and milk cow and calf, as an attempt toward their recovery process after the 20 year LRA war. Granpa Paustino is getting older and had some sickness. They need help with scholastic supplies, school uniforms for the children and healthcare. However, since last year's visit they had worked very hard to build the new huts on their land. They are definitely trying. We brought them vegetable seeds and will implement a small drip irrigation kit for their garden. Also some clothes.
They welcomed prayer and worship and the faith by hearing bible tape. They are so remote the visits are always very very short as the day turns into evening in a very long journey. We finally arrived Kalonog at night, very dusty and tired.
This did not stop anyone from getting up early in the morning and ready to get started. After a hospital tour, we went to the Xray dept where all of the boxes, supplies and xray equipment was off-loaded. I and Susan proceeded to look through all of the boxes and sort and send to the various areas for collection and accounting.
Meanwhile, on our tour we came accross the ultrasound ...Jeff quickly unwrapped the plastic and said "Where are the transducers and probes..?" Oh Dear..since I don;t know what they looked like, I feared we left them behind. This is the case after unpacking... (Guess that means another trip! Ha). They guys quickly got to work with plan B, wiring the processor and also adapting the room for xray. Good thing Russ is here for the saftey checks...ha ha. They decided to look at the ceiling to see if something could be bolted. As I watched Don climb this wooden/shaky ladder I reminded him the ladder was probably built for Ugandans which are half our size! He said, "Are you calling me fat?" I said, no ..it's just that they are built for efficiency..you know lean and strong and light weight...all the better to run from the lions...get it?!
Then Jeff decided to climb the ladder into the attic...and I said, "Watch out for the critters!". Don got his hairs on his neck standing up..guess he doesn't like critters. By that time Sr. Vincentina was having a fit at the ladder provided and ordered the Ugandans to get the metal one. Jeff continued to climb..as we yelled ..wathc out for the broked rung! Once up in the attic...I kept calling out...watch out for th ceiling...as plaster kind of flaked a little down. From below, I commented..well lets hope he doesn't step wrong and go through...don't want to do orthopedic surgery here! He relayed later...it was all the wires everywhere and where I was putting my hands..! All went well. Later, as they were mounting a piece of wood onto the ceiling, I again put my two cents worth..."Did you have it treated for termits?" At this point..Don, say..it will take 2 decades for termites to eat through this wood (it was mahogaony!) and then he ordered..."OUT". All of you...then added..Nadine it is not just you..but we need only 3 guys so we can get this done.
So, I was kicked out!! No more commentary from me...all who know me will laugh and laugh. Later Don apologized thought he hurt my feelings and I laughed...all who know me will understand as it is usually me who has to take the deep breaths when someone is driving me nuts!
So, I respectfully have stayed away and off to other work. Yesterday we went back to Wipolo and they are doing wonderful..and got Baby Rose tested (she has sickle cell). More later on this as it was a wonderful day.
So, now 3 of us are off to Kitgum to see the orphanages H20 supports in medical care. Brian is going with us..as he was there in 2006. So the electronics, xray guys are left in Kalongo for peace and quiet as they work..with Russ praying to God..for safety!
We will be back in Kalongo tomorrow. Thanks for the prayers..!
Nadine
We are doing just fine! The guys are working hard and have made a lot of progress and have some more they are working on!
I thought I'd relay a funny tale...
When we left the farm to head to Kalongo, I warned them it would be a long day...
and we would have to leave very early. Well as it is in Africa time..we were very late leaving. The cows would not load..and Brian was out helping Richard (which led to his tub being left behind!) . The guys were ready but then Richard wasn't ready...so on it went. Then the kids came with their uniforms on for school...so of course we had to take them to school in our bus with their new clothes and backpacks! They all wore their Jesus bracelelts and definitely stood out amongst the others in the smartest new clothes and shoes! Well this lead to even later. Finally we got on the road...
Good thing they brought their beef jerky and trail mix! We arrived Pajule and then on to Awal IDP camp where Nancy and Bosco family are from. I had promised them a visit every year with news of the kids when I started their adoption process a few years back..so in keeping with my word, it lead us a few hours off the beaten path the Kalongo. Suzan and I wanted to attempt a short cut. Richard and the guys, esp Richard thought we should go the road we know, which was another 3 hour journey around !
Bosco and Nancy's family were okay, but very remote. They are struggling with the drought affecting their ability to have enough food so were malnourished and some sickness. The plow was still there from last year and some seeds...this year we brought the 2 oxen and milk cow and calf, as an attempt toward their recovery process after the 20 year LRA war. Granpa Paustino is getting older and had some sickness. They need help with scholastic supplies, school uniforms for the children and healthcare. However, since last year's visit they had worked very hard to build the new huts on their land. They are definitely trying. We brought them vegetable seeds and will implement a small drip irrigation kit for their garden. Also some clothes.
They welcomed prayer and worship and the faith by hearing bible tape. They are so remote the visits are always very very short as the day turns into evening in a very long journey. We finally arrived Kalonog at night, very dusty and tired.
This did not stop anyone from getting up early in the morning and ready to get started. After a hospital tour, we went to the Xray dept where all of the boxes, supplies and xray equipment was off-loaded. I and Susan proceeded to look through all of the boxes and sort and send to the various areas for collection and accounting.
Meanwhile, on our tour we came accross the ultrasound ...Jeff quickly unwrapped the plastic and said "Where are the transducers and probes..?" Oh Dear..since I don;t know what they looked like, I feared we left them behind. This is the case after unpacking... (Guess that means another trip! Ha). They guys quickly got to work with plan B, wiring the processor and also adapting the room for xray. Good thing Russ is here for the saftey checks...ha ha. They decided to look at the ceiling to see if something could be bolted. As I watched Don climb this wooden/shaky ladder I reminded him the ladder was probably built for Ugandans which are half our size! He said, "Are you calling me fat?" I said, no ..it's just that they are built for efficiency..you know lean and strong and light weight...all the better to run from the lions...get it?!
Then Jeff decided to climb the ladder into the attic...and I said, "Watch out for the critters!". Don got his hairs on his neck standing up..guess he doesn't like critters. By that time Sr. Vincentina was having a fit at the ladder provided and ordered the Ugandans to get the metal one. Jeff continued to climb..as we yelled ..wathc out for the broked rung! Once up in the attic...I kept calling out...watch out for th ceiling...as plaster kind of flaked a little down. From below, I commented..well lets hope he doesn't step wrong and go through...don't want to do orthopedic surgery here! He relayed later...it was all the wires everywhere and where I was putting my hands..! All went well. Later, as they were mounting a piece of wood onto the ceiling, I again put my two cents worth..."Did you have it treated for termits?" At this point..Don, say..it will take 2 decades for termites to eat through this wood (it was mahogaony!) and then he ordered..."OUT". All of you...then added..Nadine it is not just you..but we need only 3 guys so we can get this done.
So, I was kicked out!! No more commentary from me...all who know me will laugh and laugh. Later Don apologized thought he hurt my feelings and I laughed...all who know me will understand as it is usually me who has to take the deep breaths when someone is driving me nuts!
So, I respectfully have stayed away and off to other work. Yesterday we went back to Wipolo and they are doing wonderful..and got Baby Rose tested (she has sickle cell). More later on this as it was a wonderful day.
So, now 3 of us are off to Kitgum to see the orphanages H20 supports in medical care. Brian is going with us..as he was there in 2006. So the electronics, xray guys are left in Kalongo for peace and quiet as they work..with Russ praying to God..for safety!
We will be back in Kalongo tomorrow. Thanks for the prayers..!
Nadine
The Guy's Posts = Finally Internet Access!
Hey all,
We are back! Hope you didn't give up on us yet~internet is hard to come by much of the time. Catching you all up on the news. These guys have been amazing and a huge blessing to all in Uganda! Enjoy ...
February 9, 2010
Russ Lowe
Well it has been quite a week so far. I am sitting outside on a porch using wireless internet to email you. Temp is about 75 with a nice cool breeze. It is 8:30 pm Uganda time. Half way around this little world of ours and they have wireless internet. Also, called Mom this evening at work using a cell phone. You get cell phone service better anywhere in Uganda than the US. You can be sitting in a small village in the middle of nowhere and they have cell phones and service. Maybe no electricity and not enough food, but they have cell phone service and it is cheap.
The people here are wonderful. An are very friendly and intelligent. Most everyone speaks english. Even in the villages there is always someone who can interpret.
When we first fly into Entebee it was night so didn't get to see much. Nadine our leader met us at the airport. Everything got thru customs ok. Spent the night in a inn somewhere around Lake Victoria and the UN head quarter base. The inn was ok. Got up in morning and went into take a shower and no water because we were on the 3rd floor. Did a sponge bath. Headed for Kampala the next morning.
Next day we headed into Kampala. Very, very, very fast paced. Makes NYC or LA look like slow motion. Drive on the wrong side like in Japan. Even makes that look slow. No stop lights not traffic signals and always cutting across traffic lanes whenever. Don't seem to be any rules. Every inch of the road is taken up by trucks, buses, mini vans, pickups, motorcycles, bicycles. Pedestrians have not right of way and risk life and limp if they don't get out the way. Spent most of the day buying supplies and getting money exchanged. Exchanged $500 and got 2,000,000 Ugandan. Stuck it in my money belt and I looked like I was expecting. The change in culture was really exciting. I have been to other places in the far east and Mexico but this was so much more different. Finally headed out for Masindi Farm around 7pm. This is a farm where families from the LRA civil war came to find a new life. About 500 acres and 40 families. About 100 childre n in school here. Richard is there leader along with his wife Susan. Small church there that is center of life. Team GBC upgraded the solar panels and and plumbing for their only deep well. This doubled capacity. We also installed the first lighting system on the family. Used to have on kerosene laterns. We four men held VBS for the school children. That was an experience for most of us. It was fun and rewarding. Did Bible teaching and crafts for them. After the VBS the children received school clothes, backpack, books, health packets, mosquito nets, etc.
Currently in Kalongo but don’t have time to complete my blog part tonite. A lot has happened this first week. Helping to install X-Ray machine at hospital here. Running out of time, lights out at 9 pm.
In His Creation – In Africa
Russ Lowe, Team GBC
Jeff Fordham
2-9
Greetings from Kolongo, northern Uganda. What an amazing trip. Kampala is nuts, 7 million people all moving at the same time, crazy.
We have been on the go, The farm was great, the people there even greater. I cannot say enough about the hospitality, thanks Richard and Suzanne God has truly shined on them. The water pump now runs on batteries powered by the sun, 24volt System, doubled the flow. Solar lights in the dinning area, 12 volt, now we can attract bugs. Speaking of bugs, I saw my first mosquito today and the weather has been great. Very talented musicians at the farm, great time of worship.
I did six ultrasounds today at the hospital, they just lined them up and away we went. X-ray equipment seems to be going fine.
This is a great team to be with. We have all gotten along great and we work well together so I am very thankful to God for choosing them.
The People her are great, there is so much to say about this place, so much to think about I don’t know how to put it into words at this time.
There is great joy and great sadness, I don’t think it has all set in yet.
Just a few days left to take it all in, so I will leave it at that.
Jeff
Brian Lucas
2/9/10
What an amazing trip. The voyage went really well. We had no problems and arrived without event. We were met at the airport by Nadine, Richard, Susan and Pritchard. We had a great reunion at a hotel in Entebbe. The next day we shopped in Kampala. What a crazy place. Then we travelled to the Family Empowerment Farm at Masindi(Richard and Susans home). We managed to upgrade the solar power on their water system then use the old setup to provide lights and battery power in the kitchen. What an amazing group of people. I have been filtering everything through the lense of my last trip here three years ago. The love and hard work that these people have put into this slice of Eden overwhelms me. The last time I was here the people were walking long distances to get drinking water from a fish pond. The water bourne disease was unbearable. Now there is fresh water from a well with a pump running into a big tank. They have a tractor now and have increased the production of the farm by an order of magnitude. All the people are happy, healthy and working hard. We next travelled to Kalongo to the Dr. Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital. I believe this is the best hospital in Northern Uganda. We are installing an x-ray film processor, an x-ray machine, and an ultrasound machine. Some parts for the ultrasound got accidently left behind which was heartbreaking. The other stuff all seems to have arrived. I can’t begin to say how proud I am of the whole team. Oh well, It is late and tomorrow Nadine, Susan and I are going to travel to Kitgum. Please pray for all of us and our work. God bless and good night,
Brian
We are back! Hope you didn't give up on us yet~internet is hard to come by much of the time. Catching you all up on the news. These guys have been amazing and a huge blessing to all in Uganda! Enjoy ...
February 9, 2010
Russ Lowe
Well it has been quite a week so far. I am sitting outside on a porch using wireless internet to email you. Temp is about 75 with a nice cool breeze. It is 8:30 pm Uganda time. Half way around this little world of ours and they have wireless internet. Also, called Mom this evening at work using a cell phone. You get cell phone service better anywhere in Uganda than the US. You can be sitting in a small village in the middle of nowhere and they have cell phones and service. Maybe no electricity and not enough food, but they have cell phone service and it is cheap.
The people here are wonderful. An are very friendly and intelligent. Most everyone speaks english. Even in the villages there is always someone who can interpret.
When we first fly into Entebee it was night so didn't get to see much. Nadine our leader met us at the airport. Everything got thru customs ok. Spent the night in a inn somewhere around Lake Victoria and the UN head quarter base. The inn was ok. Got up in morning and went into take a shower and no water because we were on the 3rd floor. Did a sponge bath. Headed for Kampala the next morning.
Next day we headed into Kampala. Very, very, very fast paced. Makes NYC or LA look like slow motion. Drive on the wrong side like in Japan. Even makes that look slow. No stop lights not traffic signals and always cutting across traffic lanes whenever. Don't seem to be any rules. Every inch of the road is taken up by trucks, buses, mini vans, pickups, motorcycles, bicycles. Pedestrians have not right of way and risk life and limp if they don't get out the way. Spent most of the day buying supplies and getting money exchanged. Exchanged $500 and got 2,000,000 Ugandan. Stuck it in my money belt and I looked like I was expecting. The change in culture was really exciting. I have been to other places in the far east and Mexico but this was so much more different. Finally headed out for Masindi Farm around 7pm. This is a farm where families from the LRA civil war came to find a new life. About 500 acres and 40 families. About 100 childre n in school here. Richard is there leader along with his wife Susan. Small church there that is center of life. Team GBC upgraded the solar panels and and plumbing for their only deep well. This doubled capacity. We also installed the first lighting system on the family. Used to have on kerosene laterns. We four men held VBS for the school children. That was an experience for most of us. It was fun and rewarding. Did Bible teaching and crafts for them. After the VBS the children received school clothes, backpack, books, health packets, mosquito nets, etc.
Currently in Kalongo but don’t have time to complete my blog part tonite. A lot has happened this first week. Helping to install X-Ray machine at hospital here. Running out of time, lights out at 9 pm.
In His Creation – In Africa
Russ Lowe, Team GBC
Jeff Fordham
2-9
Greetings from Kolongo, northern Uganda. What an amazing trip. Kampala is nuts, 7 million people all moving at the same time, crazy.
We have been on the go, The farm was great, the people there even greater. I cannot say enough about the hospitality, thanks Richard and Suzanne God has truly shined on them. The water pump now runs on batteries powered by the sun, 24volt System, doubled the flow. Solar lights in the dinning area, 12 volt, now we can attract bugs. Speaking of bugs, I saw my first mosquito today and the weather has been great. Very talented musicians at the farm, great time of worship.
I did six ultrasounds today at the hospital, they just lined them up and away we went. X-ray equipment seems to be going fine.
This is a great team to be with. We have all gotten along great and we work well together so I am very thankful to God for choosing them.
The People her are great, there is so much to say about this place, so much to think about I don’t know how to put it into words at this time.
There is great joy and great sadness, I don’t think it has all set in yet.
Just a few days left to take it all in, so I will leave it at that.
Jeff
Brian Lucas
2/9/10
What an amazing trip. The voyage went really well. We had no problems and arrived without event. We were met at the airport by Nadine, Richard, Susan and Pritchard. We had a great reunion at a hotel in Entebbe. The next day we shopped in Kampala. What a crazy place. Then we travelled to the Family Empowerment Farm at Masindi(Richard and Susans home). We managed to upgrade the solar power on their water system then use the old setup to provide lights and battery power in the kitchen. What an amazing group of people. I have been filtering everything through the lense of my last trip here three years ago. The love and hard work that these people have put into this slice of Eden overwhelms me. The last time I was here the people were walking long distances to get drinking water from a fish pond. The water bourne disease was unbearable. Now there is fresh water from a well with a pump running into a big tank. They have a tractor now and have increased the production of the farm by an order of magnitude. All the people are happy, healthy and working hard. We next travelled to Kalongo to the Dr. Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital. I believe this is the best hospital in Northern Uganda. We are installing an x-ray film processor, an x-ray machine, and an ultrasound machine. Some parts for the ultrasound got accidently left behind which was heartbreaking. The other stuff all seems to have arrived. I can’t begin to say how proud I am of the whole team. Oh well, It is late and tomorrow Nadine, Susan and I are going to travel to Kitgum. Please pray for all of us and our work. God bless and good night,
Brian
All are God's Children
Feb 5th,
After walking away from the bus taking the guys to the farm, feeling sad…and then going back into Achumi market to find some fingernail clippers (so much dirt under the nails…and for some reason I couldn’t stand it any longer…this was my focus back to sanity..I needed to cut my fingernails!). Once that was accomplished, my nails cut and some water bought. I lifted my head up and said to Prichard and Jackson. ..”Let’s walk…I can’t bear to go back to the hotel and sit in that room again. Thankful Brian had given me some shillings and the church sent over some to cover the container, so I was back in business again…
So, we walked the streets of Kampala..and Prichard decided to take us to a corner I remembered before near the parliament when they play music and had wireless internet. We sat outside…as it grew dark, the city became alive! It seemed everyone was outside…cooking, talking, singing, selling their wares…etc. The various lights flickered among the darkness and sounds were everywhere. We also called Prichard’s girlfriend in America (I just found out about her! And since I am mom he wanted to introduce her..ha!) and also we called Kenny. I was so happy to hear from us and was fine, thankfully. As, I was looking around..I noticed two children on the corner…dancing…then darting away…then re-appearing behind a parked car…dancing some more…then gone. In the shadows I could see their clothes were tattered…their feet were bare and their arms and legs very thin. Yet, the joy of listening and dancing to the music brought them closer and visible in brief moments.
I turned my head to speak to Prichard and ask him about them…he said they were street children…I turned back and they were gone! Since we were ready to catch a special hire (taxi ) to the hotel…I said to Prichard, “I cannot leave until we find those children” We turned the corner and saw them by a restaurant picking up empty soda bottles from a crate….one by one tipping the bottles to their mouths and drinking the last drops of the soda left in the bottle. A guard was nearby and all seemed used to these children. As I approached them, they flinched and would have ran but I asked the guard to allow them to stay, I wanted to see them. They had beautiful smiles, through the dirty thin faces and rags they wore! They were living on the streets and sleeping in verandas when the city quieted at night and were scavenging for food scraps.
There was a chicken place….so I bought them each chicken and chips. They wanted a soda but I insisted on water; the cashier did not even charge for the water. She told me she would pack the food to go as they want to share with their friends who are also living on the streets.
She instructed them how to say thank you in English, the guard and all smiled and really thanked me. As I looked around I also realized, I was the only white person around and the only one I saw the whole evening… I guess I was in a part not frequented by tourists.
Everyone was so grateful and nice about helping the children. It was they who actually helped me…in the midst of the struggle earlier with container…all is put into perspective….as we are all one in the eye’s of God and all His children. These children were so beautiful to me….they vanished into the night as silently as they came and were no longer lurking in the shadows, however they will lurk in my mind and heart for a long time. The lesson of sharing with their friends even though they are so desparately without, inspired me and brought to mind the commandment of “loving thy neighbor as thyself”
I slept good last night and prepared for the long day of wait today as the clearing agent worked with the customs department all day! At 4:55 pm I received a call…their was another issue…imagine that! The issue was that of the shipper owned container (donated by Peirce and AIDSpirit and would be staying on the farm – a much needed water tight storage place on the farm!). So, then it became more money requested for the customs to “overlook” the tax that should be paid (supposedly). Prichard has a friend in the office and she did not think it the case…but the customs at the shipyard needed to let the container go out tomorrow and it could hold it up even more I was told. I was to meet the agent tomorrow morning and I vowed to be there right on time so as to get that container out finally! Later, I received a call from Sr. Vincentina of Kalongo Hospital who wondering when I was coming with the team and I told her the saga…she was so upset and kept saying..we have tax exemption..they should not be charging you at all! She immediately called someone she knows on the board of minister of finance…texted me his number and I was to call him in the morning to help out. As it turns out, I called him 3 times in the morning. We finally got the container moved to multilines and sorted for delivery and off it was on the road by 1 pm. I also took the backpacks and books (for Love Covers) and mattress (for John who has hydrocephalus) and off I went on the road to Masindi..spending my last shillings once again!! Multilines also gave me an invoice for a refund of $339 but as it was a Saturday there of course was no money available! Arrangements have been made to get it however. ..
The guys have called a few times and were preparing for love covers and the VBS. I heard the Lord provided more water through the sun and even lights through the sun! I’ll let them tell you about it all! I arrived the farm in record time ….to see them doing the love covers…playing the “shepard and the sheep” and big bad lion game. All 5 guys and all the kids! It was amazing. It was in time to explain how 13 year old Rachel from Billings started the book drive and the love the kids in Billings have for the kids in Uganda …half a world a way. Another expression of unity…of one in the world and with the world. Hallelujah!
Rachel’s story and strength and will to persevere with the book drive, even after a year….touched the Ugandan’s deeply. The Love packs were beautiful..the donations from many for the items in the packs...hygiene kits, school supplies and the cost of the shoes, mosquitoe nets, blankets, uniforms etc... including the colorful backpacks from Dave and Office Depot were a huge blessing. The ladies worked so hard making the uniforms on sewing machines that are the antique treddle machines…in solar cooker oven Heat! The kids received their first books ever…one by one. Thank you everyone at home for sharing the love! Wish you could have been here…and to see the guys teach the kids and play with the kids….beautiful…God is good and we are grateful! At that moment the hardship of the container has become a distant memory as the work we have come to do goes forward. You will hear from the guys soon, so I will save some stories for them..they are awesome!
Love, Nadine
After walking away from the bus taking the guys to the farm, feeling sad…and then going back into Achumi market to find some fingernail clippers (so much dirt under the nails…and for some reason I couldn’t stand it any longer…this was my focus back to sanity..I needed to cut my fingernails!). Once that was accomplished, my nails cut and some water bought. I lifted my head up and said to Prichard and Jackson. ..”Let’s walk…I can’t bear to go back to the hotel and sit in that room again. Thankful Brian had given me some shillings and the church sent over some to cover the container, so I was back in business again…
So, we walked the streets of Kampala..and Prichard decided to take us to a corner I remembered before near the parliament when they play music and had wireless internet. We sat outside…as it grew dark, the city became alive! It seemed everyone was outside…cooking, talking, singing, selling their wares…etc. The various lights flickered among the darkness and sounds were everywhere. We also called Prichard’s girlfriend in America (I just found out about her! And since I am mom he wanted to introduce her..ha!) and also we called Kenny. I was so happy to hear from us and was fine, thankfully. As, I was looking around..I noticed two children on the corner…dancing…then darting away…then re-appearing behind a parked car…dancing some more…then gone. In the shadows I could see their clothes were tattered…their feet were bare and their arms and legs very thin. Yet, the joy of listening and dancing to the music brought them closer and visible in brief moments.
I turned my head to speak to Prichard and ask him about them…he said they were street children…I turned back and they were gone! Since we were ready to catch a special hire (taxi ) to the hotel…I said to Prichard, “I cannot leave until we find those children” We turned the corner and saw them by a restaurant picking up empty soda bottles from a crate….one by one tipping the bottles to their mouths and drinking the last drops of the soda left in the bottle. A guard was nearby and all seemed used to these children. As I approached them, they flinched and would have ran but I asked the guard to allow them to stay, I wanted to see them. They had beautiful smiles, through the dirty thin faces and rags they wore! They were living on the streets and sleeping in verandas when the city quieted at night and were scavenging for food scraps.
There was a chicken place….so I bought them each chicken and chips. They wanted a soda but I insisted on water; the cashier did not even charge for the water. She told me she would pack the food to go as they want to share with their friends who are also living on the streets.
She instructed them how to say thank you in English, the guard and all smiled and really thanked me. As I looked around I also realized, I was the only white person around and the only one I saw the whole evening… I guess I was in a part not frequented by tourists.
Everyone was so grateful and nice about helping the children. It was they who actually helped me…in the midst of the struggle earlier with container…all is put into perspective….as we are all one in the eye’s of God and all His children. These children were so beautiful to me….they vanished into the night as silently as they came and were no longer lurking in the shadows, however they will lurk in my mind and heart for a long time. The lesson of sharing with their friends even though they are so desparately without, inspired me and brought to mind the commandment of “loving thy neighbor as thyself”
I slept good last night and prepared for the long day of wait today as the clearing agent worked with the customs department all day! At 4:55 pm I received a call…their was another issue…imagine that! The issue was that of the shipper owned container (donated by Peirce and AIDSpirit and would be staying on the farm – a much needed water tight storage place on the farm!). So, then it became more money requested for the customs to “overlook” the tax that should be paid (supposedly). Prichard has a friend in the office and she did not think it the case…but the customs at the shipyard needed to let the container go out tomorrow and it could hold it up even more I was told. I was to meet the agent tomorrow morning and I vowed to be there right on time so as to get that container out finally! Later, I received a call from Sr. Vincentina of Kalongo Hospital who wondering when I was coming with the team and I told her the saga…she was so upset and kept saying..we have tax exemption..they should not be charging you at all! She immediately called someone she knows on the board of minister of finance…texted me his number and I was to call him in the morning to help out. As it turns out, I called him 3 times in the morning. We finally got the container moved to multilines and sorted for delivery and off it was on the road by 1 pm. I also took the backpacks and books (for Love Covers) and mattress (for John who has hydrocephalus) and off I went on the road to Masindi..spending my last shillings once again!! Multilines also gave me an invoice for a refund of $339 but as it was a Saturday there of course was no money available! Arrangements have been made to get it however. ..
The guys have called a few times and were preparing for love covers and the VBS. I heard the Lord provided more water through the sun and even lights through the sun! I’ll let them tell you about it all! I arrived the farm in record time ….to see them doing the love covers…playing the “shepard and the sheep” and big bad lion game. All 5 guys and all the kids! It was amazing. It was in time to explain how 13 year old Rachel from Billings started the book drive and the love the kids in Billings have for the kids in Uganda …half a world a way. Another expression of unity…of one in the world and with the world. Hallelujah!
Rachel’s story and strength and will to persevere with the book drive, even after a year….touched the Ugandan’s deeply. The Love packs were beautiful..the donations from many for the items in the packs...hygiene kits, school supplies and the cost of the shoes, mosquitoe nets, blankets, uniforms etc... including the colorful backpacks from Dave and Office Depot were a huge blessing. The ladies worked so hard making the uniforms on sewing machines that are the antique treddle machines…in solar cooker oven Heat! The kids received their first books ever…one by one. Thank you everyone at home for sharing the love! Wish you could have been here…and to see the guys teach the kids and play with the kids….beautiful…God is good and we are grateful! At that moment the hardship of the container has become a distant memory as the work we have come to do goes forward. You will hear from the guys soon, so I will save some stories for them..they are awesome!
Love, Nadine
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Raining...Grace, Praises, Prayers, Gratitude, Energy
HI all,
This morning awoke with the Grace Bible Team really ready to roll! And I was renewed again after a decent night sleep. I am grateful for the McCourtney's in Entebbe for always putting me up and putting up with me! As we settled the guys in the hotel the night before..I warned them of the intense heat...well today it rained...a welcome reprieve! It has been so hot I have been praying they brought icicles from Montana. No icicles, yet much better, lots of blessings and energy! We started the day with loading up the bus (coaster)..always the tough one..getting everyone on. These guys are great team ... exceptional...it was I on Africa time! After filling them in on some of the details from the container, projects, etc.. , Jeff lead the team, coaster and us in prayer and then worship on the bus trip to Kampala! It really lifted me up hugely to face the next phase of the container! Giving Praise and Glory to God, up to the heavens..and back.
Keep sending the angels and prayers,
Love, Nadine
On the way I found out..yes we could meet with the drug authority and so they dropped myself, Nate and Prichard (Kenny's brother) and Jackson (the farm manager) off at Maersk ICD terminal. Our lovely african friends who have now opened and unloaded and loaded this container 3 times were present. They all know me well by now and they just loved Nate!! As you can imagine..Nate got a break through on Africa...wait...wait and wait..and this was not bad!! He was amazing and very helpful! As we were waiting and travelling I recieved a few message about the congolese refugee family..all good..everything was working out well to get Arsene registered in Uganda...and Bertine had actually registered his family on his re-settlement papers from Mozambique and Kenya many years ago!! This is the best news as they may be re-united through this process much more quickly! Hallelujah! The Office of Prime Minister actually called me back today about the issue of the registration and they are fast forwarding the finaly approval...Hallelujah! Lots to be thankful for and grateful for..!
Conrad our wonderful drug authority agent ( I am not being sarcastic) he really is..finally met and showed up after I was told they were in a "meeting" (everyone here in any type of businesss is in a perpetual meeting). We looked for the items in question which they accused us of hiding (not the case and since I was not present the first day..I had no idea what exact box was in question). Well anyway it opened up a can of worms because he did not check all boxes the first time. So, much more was found and I accepted it as some of the items definitely should have not been sent or imported over..my mistake for not checking all the boxes or learning the restrictions prior. I did get the guidelines yesterday which only related to medications which we did not bring over..so it is still an enigma on some of it in relation to the gloves denied and the needles and syringes. Well...I must say, I did not handle the rejection of the needles and syringes as they were not expired. All I could think of was 8 year old Steven with sickle cell and know we found he has hepatitis C...and Raymond who was 6 years old and died of AIDS and his twin sister...and all of the other kids I have buried over here in the past...even shoveled the dirt over the grave after many days of prayers with the family in 2003. These needles, syringes and gloves would save someone of contracting these deadly illnesses...as I have been there in the hospitals when there were no gloves and heard the stories of them re-using the needles and syringes. So, in the middle of the ICD shipping part, I started to cry and carry on about these children, etc. Thankfully, there was mercy (I must have fairly scared the guy ...because here life is not so valuable)... and he put back the needles and syringes but still made some of the gloves be placed in the "burn" and "fine pile" In the end, we ended up with 30 more kgs of items to burn and about $75 fine, which still is not bad. I calmed considerably and even took some pictures with all.
Next we met up with the rest of the guys..did not want to sit around and wait..so gave Nate a treat ride through the city on a matatu (ask him if it was a treat, but at least it wasn't a boda boda and safe!) Then off to meet the rest at the solar panel place then off to more drill buying etc.
In the end, it was a great day! I sent the 5 guys off to the farm with Richard..as they have a lot of work to do with all they bought today! And I still have to finalize the next steps for the container. I can say..I was very sad as they left...
However, I have been blessed with Prichard, Kenny's brother to keep me sane in Kampala! I have spent way too much time in this city this time..and scary I even know my way around somewhat. I have certainly learned a lot for sure..always something new..
Pray for the guys on the farm..I know they will love it ...and it drives me nuts I won't be there to boss everyone around (kidding!). They are in great hands with Richard and Suzan. Pray for the container finalizing tomorrow and the congolese family. I know I am supposed to be here in Kampala..at least that is the way God has arranged it, so I will make the best of it..just need to have a few moments once in a while and ask for grace, courage, strength and faith...and keep up the "never give up and perservere" attitude that has shown us the paths directed for H20 thus far, some of the mountains, valleys, streams, lakes...dry drought areas, famine and harvest.
Thank you all for the support and prayers!!
Love Nadine
This morning awoke with the Grace Bible Team really ready to roll! And I was renewed again after a decent night sleep. I am grateful for the McCourtney's in Entebbe for always putting me up and putting up with me! As we settled the guys in the hotel the night before..I warned them of the intense heat...well today it rained...a welcome reprieve! It has been so hot I have been praying they brought icicles from Montana. No icicles, yet much better, lots of blessings and energy! We started the day with loading up the bus (coaster)..always the tough one..getting everyone on. These guys are great team ... exceptional...it was I on Africa time! After filling them in on some of the details from the container, projects, etc.. , Jeff lead the team, coaster and us in prayer and then worship on the bus trip to Kampala! It really lifted me up hugely to face the next phase of the container! Giving Praise and Glory to God, up to the heavens..and back.
Keep sending the angels and prayers,
Love, Nadine
On the way I found out..yes we could meet with the drug authority and so they dropped myself, Nate and Prichard (Kenny's brother) and Jackson (the farm manager) off at Maersk ICD terminal. Our lovely african friends who have now opened and unloaded and loaded this container 3 times were present. They all know me well by now and they just loved Nate!! As you can imagine..Nate got a break through on Africa...wait...wait and wait..and this was not bad!! He was amazing and very helpful! As we were waiting and travelling I recieved a few message about the congolese refugee family..all good..everything was working out well to get Arsene registered in Uganda...and Bertine had actually registered his family on his re-settlement papers from Mozambique and Kenya many years ago!! This is the best news as they may be re-united through this process much more quickly! Hallelujah! The Office of Prime Minister actually called me back today about the issue of the registration and they are fast forwarding the finaly approval...Hallelujah! Lots to be thankful for and grateful for..!
Conrad our wonderful drug authority agent ( I am not being sarcastic) he really is..finally met and showed up after I was told they were in a "meeting" (everyone here in any type of businesss is in a perpetual meeting). We looked for the items in question which they accused us of hiding (not the case and since I was not present the first day..I had no idea what exact box was in question). Well anyway it opened up a can of worms because he did not check all boxes the first time. So, much more was found and I accepted it as some of the items definitely should have not been sent or imported over..my mistake for not checking all the boxes or learning the restrictions prior. I did get the guidelines yesterday which only related to medications which we did not bring over..so it is still an enigma on some of it in relation to the gloves denied and the needles and syringes. Well...I must say, I did not handle the rejection of the needles and syringes as they were not expired. All I could think of was 8 year old Steven with sickle cell and know we found he has hepatitis C...and Raymond who was 6 years old and died of AIDS and his twin sister...and all of the other kids I have buried over here in the past...even shoveled the dirt over the grave after many days of prayers with the family in 2003. These needles, syringes and gloves would save someone of contracting these deadly illnesses...as I have been there in the hospitals when there were no gloves and heard the stories of them re-using the needles and syringes. So, in the middle of the ICD shipping part, I started to cry and carry on about these children, etc. Thankfully, there was mercy (I must have fairly scared the guy ...because here life is not so valuable)... and he put back the needles and syringes but still made some of the gloves be placed in the "burn" and "fine pile" In the end, we ended up with 30 more kgs of items to burn and about $75 fine, which still is not bad. I calmed considerably and even took some pictures with all.
Next we met up with the rest of the guys..did not want to sit around and wait..so gave Nate a treat ride through the city on a matatu (ask him if it was a treat, but at least it wasn't a boda boda and safe!) Then off to meet the rest at the solar panel place then off to more drill buying etc.
In the end, it was a great day! I sent the 5 guys off to the farm with Richard..as they have a lot of work to do with all they bought today! And I still have to finalize the next steps for the container. I can say..I was very sad as they left...
However, I have been blessed with Prichard, Kenny's brother to keep me sane in Kampala! I have spent way too much time in this city this time..and scary I even know my way around somewhat. I have certainly learned a lot for sure..always something new..
Pray for the guys on the farm..I know they will love it ...and it drives me nuts I won't be there to boss everyone around (kidding!). They are in great hands with Richard and Suzan. Pray for the container finalizing tomorrow and the congolese family. I know I am supposed to be here in Kampala..at least that is the way God has arranged it, so I will make the best of it..just need to have a few moments once in a while and ask for grace, courage, strength and faith...and keep up the "never give up and perservere" attitude that has shown us the paths directed for H20 thus far, some of the mountains, valleys, streams, lakes...dry drought areas, famine and harvest.
Thank you all for the support and prayers!!
Love Nadine
A Miracle - A Setback- Not giving up!
Hi all,
The saga of the container goes on and on... I thought it was hard packing and setting up the container shipment, finding the funds and then doing the monumental task of the packing list etc. The I thought it was hard when the wrong seal number was placed on the documents, then I thought it was hard when the container was sent to Seattle and the dock was closed for holiday and the trucker had to stay overnight (at an extra expense that had to be covered..and was thanks to angel Dick). Then I thought it was hard when the container got lost in Seattle...thankfully it was found in time to be shipped on time! Then it was a breeze and a break as the container moved through the oceans and countries of china, Odom and Kenya. There was the joy of a breakthrough with it potentially arriving a little early and cleared from the border without going through the customs in Kampala ICD terminal. This was short lived however due to the diversity of items in the container. I packed the container carefully also to avoid a lot of customs charges...knowing though anything can happen. So when they gave me a figure of $1000 when we arrived ...and angel Dick helped out again. Then I was crestfallen when they added another $500. But, I just prayed for strength and have been thankful I have a lot of fat to lose!! Then we had great news of the container arriving in Kampala..Maersk ICD yard! The appointment with the Uganda Drug Authority was hard to come by but Multilines our agents have worked very hard. Monday the container was opened and the drug authority found some needles that were expired so they requested the container be moved to the bay and the whole thing be unloaded fully and spread out to search the boxes. I arrived with a padlock and the next day we arrived to unload the container for inspection. I was also trying to call Kalongo to get the sisters to talk to the drug authority people as they wanted to use some of the expired items for teaching purposes in the nursing school. Finally, I reached Sister Carmel and she was on her way to Kampala! Hallelujah! She made it to the Maersk yard and the drug authority agent was understanding. She fought and I fought for the items needed. Can you imagine they were going to burn them?! And charge a fine. They even took one box of gloves that had one torn glove and another!! Tried to say all the gloves were expired which they were not! In the end we were happy to get by with most things accepted and 11 kg of items going to the burning place and pay about $20 fine. We felt it was a miracle from God!! To back track, I was notified about the possible problem with expired items coming into Uganda when the container was already packed...so I took out items in all of the boxes I could reach. The decision was to leave the rest (the forklift had already been rented 3 times! In addition the hospital had two large sterilizers with which to sterilize instruments and surgical equipment, needles etc and we did not know about the burning and fining issue. Anyway we were blessed with favor. Then the following day we get a call that the drug authority agent that opened the first box the first day and saw some vacutainer needles that were expired..he did not find them in the discard/burn box so theb it went back to the fact he wanted those needles found and out of the container!! The other agent was in Entebbe working for the day..so we had to wait until today! So, for the 3rd time we are waiting to unpack the container and find the small items in one small box, load the container again and clear customs officially so everything can be brought to their destinations. Once again, every one is in a meeting so here we sit...hours upon hours!
Thankfully the satellite internet is working so at least I can keep occupied as we wait in this shipyard. I notified Sr. Carmel of the problem and she is in meetings today that she cannot miss...her last words ..."Don't give up"! So, I am not giving up...I have renewed strenght today as it rained so it is not as hot...or I think I'd melt!!
The Grace Bible guys from Laurel all arrived well!! And have brought renewed energy which I desparately needed! We have a great prayer this morning and Jeff sang worship songs on the bus, which lightened my heart immensely and has given me strenght. Nate has been good to volunteer to sit out this miserable process at the shipyard...the Lord is grooming us all in patience! The others are off buying solar panels, etc, etc for the farm.
Please keep us in your prayers and ask for favor with this customs/drug authority process! Stay tuned! Next post I will give more info about the congolese refugee family..have had a few breakthroughs!!
Love, Nadine
The saga of the container goes on and on... I thought it was hard packing and setting up the container shipment, finding the funds and then doing the monumental task of the packing list etc. The I thought it was hard when the wrong seal number was placed on the documents, then I thought it was hard when the container was sent to Seattle and the dock was closed for holiday and the trucker had to stay overnight (at an extra expense that had to be covered..and was thanks to angel Dick). Then I thought it was hard when the container got lost in Seattle...thankfully it was found in time to be shipped on time! Then it was a breeze and a break as the container moved through the oceans and countries of china, Odom and Kenya. There was the joy of a breakthrough with it potentially arriving a little early and cleared from the border without going through the customs in Kampala ICD terminal. This was short lived however due to the diversity of items in the container. I packed the container carefully also to avoid a lot of customs charges...knowing though anything can happen. So when they gave me a figure of $1000 when we arrived ...and angel Dick helped out again. Then I was crestfallen when they added another $500. But, I just prayed for strength and have been thankful I have a lot of fat to lose!! Then we had great news of the container arriving in Kampala..Maersk ICD yard! The appointment with the Uganda Drug Authority was hard to come by but Multilines our agents have worked very hard. Monday the container was opened and the drug authority found some needles that were expired so they requested the container be moved to the bay and the whole thing be unloaded fully and spread out to search the boxes. I arrived with a padlock and the next day we arrived to unload the container for inspection. I was also trying to call Kalongo to get the sisters to talk to the drug authority people as they wanted to use some of the expired items for teaching purposes in the nursing school. Finally, I reached Sister Carmel and she was on her way to Kampala! Hallelujah! She made it to the Maersk yard and the drug authority agent was understanding. She fought and I fought for the items needed. Can you imagine they were going to burn them?! And charge a fine. They even took one box of gloves that had one torn glove and another!! Tried to say all the gloves were expired which they were not! In the end we were happy to get by with most things accepted and 11 kg of items going to the burning place and pay about $20 fine. We felt it was a miracle from God!! To back track, I was notified about the possible problem with expired items coming into Uganda when the container was already packed...so I took out items in all of the boxes I could reach. The decision was to leave the rest (the forklift had already been rented 3 times! In addition the hospital had two large sterilizers with which to sterilize instruments and surgical equipment, needles etc and we did not know about the burning and fining issue. Anyway we were blessed with favor. Then the following day we get a call that the drug authority agent that opened the first box the first day and saw some vacutainer needles that were expired..he did not find them in the discard/burn box so theb it went back to the fact he wanted those needles found and out of the container!! The other agent was in Entebbe working for the day..so we had to wait until today! So, for the 3rd time we are waiting to unpack the container and find the small items in one small box, load the container again and clear customs officially so everything can be brought to their destinations. Once again, every one is in a meeting so here we sit...hours upon hours!
Thankfully the satellite internet is working so at least I can keep occupied as we wait in this shipyard. I notified Sr. Carmel of the problem and she is in meetings today that she cannot miss...her last words ..."Don't give up"! So, I am not giving up...I have renewed strenght today as it rained so it is not as hot...or I think I'd melt!!
The Grace Bible guys from Laurel all arrived well!! And have brought renewed energy which I desparately needed! We have a great prayer this morning and Jeff sang worship songs on the bus, which lightened my heart immensely and has given me strenght. Nate has been good to volunteer to sit out this miserable process at the shipyard...the Lord is grooming us all in patience! The others are off buying solar panels, etc, etc for the farm.
Please keep us in your prayers and ask for favor with this customs/drug authority process! Stay tuned! Next post I will give more info about the congolese refugee family..have had a few breakthroughs!!
Love, Nadine
Monday, February 1, 2010
The Container has arrived!
Hallelujah...the container is here in Kampala and our multilines agents have been very diligent in getting the appointment with the drug authority. So today was the day! I was in Kayunga however when I got the call to come and have a look. Luckily Prichard and Richard were ready to go. Since I was then travelling alone I did not feel I could manage the matatu with the luggage, squishiness, and jams with all the people going back to school today. So about midday Terry had Charles take me to Kampala, thankfully. Well on the way I was getting calls that the drug authority found a few expired items of needles, catheters etc...which I was afraid of but did not search all of the boxes before the container left Billings as it was already packed. I guess...it almost cleared when he found those items. So now they loaded the container back up and I reached to seal it with a padlock and tomorrow I will need to go back and have it unloaded and spread out so each and every box can be inspected. I explained there is a school who could use the items for training and also the surgical instruments are to be re-sterilized in different packs and that Kalongo hospital has a large sterilizer to do this with. Pray they find favor with that explanation otherwise I am told they will burn the items and charge me...
I have faith though as everyone was nice..not mad at all...and it actually has been fairly quick in getting this far! Still time to clear all by the time the engineers and electronic guys from Grace Bible church from Laurel arrive to set up the xray etc.!
Keep up the prayers!
Nadine
I have faith though as everyone was nice..not mad at all...and it actually has been fairly quick in getting this far! Still time to clear all by the time the engineers and electronic guys from Grace Bible church from Laurel arrive to set up the xray etc.!
Keep up the prayers!
Nadine
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