Uganda

We made it safe and sound to Uganda on Thursday. We flew into Entebbe and then had an hour drive to Kampala where we are staying. Red dirt, bodabodas (motorcycle taxis), opposite side driving, roadside stands, Fanta soda, and wonderful hospitality quickly reminded me of my time in Kenya last year. On our drive to Return House Ministries where we are staying, it was easy to see that poverty here it indescribable. For those on our team who have never been to Africa, I think the term overwhelmed is even an understatement. 

On the way to The Return House

We were welcomed with open arms at the place we will be staying while here in Uganda - Return House Ministries.  Pastor Samuel and his wife Sarah were excited to show us around and eager to make sure that we will be comfortable during our stay. Our place is gated and guarded as are most places here. The landscaping is amazing as well as all the flowers and foliage. Water is stored in large black collection bins that are kept high in the air. We make sure to not drink the water or even brush our teeth with their water due to a non-existent filtration system. Outside our windows we can see and hear a variety of things: an amazing view of Kampala, cows that are periodically tied up to different green grassy areas, a school, soccer field, bananas, a turkey - yep random turkey who lives at the neighbors, dogs barking - at all times of the night, chickens and roosters, bodabodas, and more! 

Our home during our time in Uganda

Words can not express the emotions and feelings that we all had when meeting the children for the first time. We walked the muddy path to the children's home and Return Ministries' Church building and were swarmed with 150-200 children running straight toward us ready for hugs, handshakes, piggyback rides, high-fives, and simply....... a loving touch. We spent the day playing, singing, dancing, holding, hugging, answering questions about America, sliding, feeding and serving lunch, learning, and loving! 

What a blessing our first day was with the children!