First Week Experiences

Well, I've been in Bundibugyo for over one week now! It has been a week of emotional ups and downs for me and I have to admit I've been surprised by the weight of adjustment. But, in reviewing the week, I can say I've had a lot of firsts, some more fun than others.

• Within the first 20 minutes of being in my home, I realized the sound of lizards running around in the ceiling would soon become normal. Thank goodness they seem to be quiet at night :)
• I've learned to light my gas stove but am still learning to cook on it.
• I killed my first 3-inch long cockroach that was trying to make its home on my desk. And I saw the handiwork of Chloe, our teammate's dog, in a dead rat in our kitchen. So happy she killed it so I didn't have to!
• I received my first phone call from America.
• I learned how to keep records for the nutrition program as Charles and I went to the health center and an outpatient village site.
• I pinned down goats while Pauline clipped their hooves--definitely a new experience for me. I've never felt so much like a city girl since I've been in Bundibugyo!
• I helped Anna light our propane fridge. Electricity is an amazing thing and something I've taken for granted in the past!
• I went to the Saturday Nyahuka market, a pretty big deal in these parts!
• And so much more...

Firsts are both exciting and exhausting. I'm looking forward to more and also anticipating finding some sense of normalcy in life here. It may be a while before that comes but I'm trusting that God has me here for a reason and He will be glorified in it!