Uganda, here we come!

We rendezvoused with Libbi and Tamera at the London airport gate to complete the team. Our flight departed London on schedule and without incident (unlike 2 years ago). Most of us slept very well (although not long enough) after long hikes in London and a full tummy. We arrived at the Entebbe airport on schedule along with all of our luggage! One of many miracles yet to come, I’m sure. We were greeted by Watoto: Andrew – our host for the trip, Melvin – an up-and-coming host (today was his first day on the job), and Joel – our driver. All three of them are super nice people and we hit it off right away. Last but not least, we got our wish from the last trip – a BIGGER BUS (see picture)!! It seats all of us fine and even has a working air conditioner. After a prayer by Andrew, we left to exchange money and get a bite to eat. Along the way, Andrew memorized everyone’s names and was able to recite them at will. We were duly impressed! As tired as we were, he kept us awake with very interesting information about Uganda, Watoto, himself, etc. We are looking forward to spending more time with these fine gentlemen. We arrived at the Kampala Regency Hotel (don’t get any ritzy pictures in your mind) where we stayed in 2005 and it had not changed much. After off-loading the supplies we brought, we proceeded to the Garden Shopping Center to exchange currency into Ugandan shillings (1,700 shilling to the dollar). We partook of ice cream and light food and then went to KPC for orientation. There, we were reacquainted with staff members (Brenda – coordinator of teams and Robert - construction) and met some new faces as well. It was fun to see them again. The orientation covered the history of KPC, Watoto, and future plans, which includes building many more homes and schools in the existing villages. It is good to see continued expansion because the need is so great. After orientation, we watched a future Watoto choir practice and were able to meet some of the children – always a hit! Finally, we returned to the hotel to relax and take our first shower since Tuesday. Tomorrow we begin construction, so stayed tuned for more adventures to come!
Written by Dave Glover