Sunday, March 17, 2013
God's Will or My Will?
Lately I've been thinking about the offer for a Fulbright Scholarship. There's always sacrifices involved with decision-making. Some will not hesitate and takes the risk and go for it. I wish that I could just go for it and wait what happens. Ultimately God's will prevails. All that's left is to pray.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Quiet Nothingness
It's not fun being sick whether it is from a simple flu virus or cancer. As I recuperate this past week from a cold flu virus, I believe that it is sometimes God's way to allow us to be in "Quiet Nothingness"!
(borrowed from the 3-minute Retreat). For when I'm removed from the worries of daily living that I truly am 100% with God when I pray, when I talk to Him in silence, in my heart. He lives in my heart after all. I learn to talk to Jesus like I am talking to a dear friend. When you have a true friend, no matter how long you haven't seen each other it doesn't matter. For when you see your true friend again it's like the time span didn't matter. We pick up where we left off and we enjoy each other's company. We continue sharing our ups and downs and worries big and small. This is funny but I do talk to Jesus while I'm in the bathroom doing my business. At my age, I have problems with irregularities (only those people who have had this can relate to this, so sorry if you can't). So when I do become regular, I thank the Lord with all my heart! ;)
Back to quiet nothingness. Yes, when I'm quiet, not talking, not thinking of work or school or the bills, I can have a great conversation with God. He has granted all of the desires of my heart and more! At times I'm overwhelmed with His goodness, grace and mercy. I don't deserve all of the good things and yet the holy spirit prompts me to share the goodness and gifts to others. He expects a lot from me when He gives me more than I asked for.
As I was reading other blogs, I got redirected to the blog of Ignatian Spirituality.com, inspired by the Ignatius Loyola's love of "Magis" - the greater, the excellent, the best. The author talks about "What more can I do to respond to God's love?" Magis is not about striving toward achievement for the sole purpose of completing more work. Rather, magis is just like a gentle reminder from a loving parent who knows your greatest potential, "I expect more from you."
(borrowed from the 3-minute Retreat). For when I'm removed from the worries of daily living that I truly am 100% with God when I pray, when I talk to Him in silence, in my heart. He lives in my heart after all. I learn to talk to Jesus like I am talking to a dear friend. When you have a true friend, no matter how long you haven't seen each other it doesn't matter. For when you see your true friend again it's like the time span didn't matter. We pick up where we left off and we enjoy each other's company. We continue sharing our ups and downs and worries big and small. This is funny but I do talk to Jesus while I'm in the bathroom doing my business. At my age, I have problems with irregularities (only those people who have had this can relate to this, so sorry if you can't). So when I do become regular, I thank the Lord with all my heart! ;)
Back to quiet nothingness. Yes, when I'm quiet, not talking, not thinking of work or school or the bills, I can have a great conversation with God. He has granted all of the desires of my heart and more! At times I'm overwhelmed with His goodness, grace and mercy. I don't deserve all of the good things and yet the holy spirit prompts me to share the goodness and gifts to others. He expects a lot from me when He gives me more than I asked for.
As I was reading other blogs, I got redirected to the blog of Ignatian Spirituality.com, inspired by the Ignatius Loyola's love of "Magis" - the greater, the excellent, the best. The author talks about "What more can I do to respond to God's love?" Magis is not about striving toward achievement for the sole purpose of completing more work. Rather, magis is just like a gentle reminder from a loving parent who knows your greatest potential, "I expect more from you."
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Our Deepest Fear
This poem is borrowed from one of my co-fellow scholar nurse from Florida.
Our Deepest Fear
By Marianne Williamson
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness
That most frightens us.
We ask ourselves
Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small
Does not serve the world.
There's nothing enlightened about shrinking
So that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine,
As children do.
We were born to make manifest
The glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us;
It's in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine,
We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we're liberated from our own fear,
Our presence automatically liberates others.
Our Deepest Fear
By Marianne Williamson
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness
That most frightens us.
We ask ourselves
Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small
Does not serve the world.
There's nothing enlightened about shrinking
So that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine,
As children do.
We were born to make manifest
The glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us;
It's in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine,
We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we're liberated from our own fear,
Our presence automatically liberates others.
Health is Wealth
Our body is a temple of God. We often forget that we need to take good of care of ourselves in order to take care of others. As I try to shake this impending cold virus I'm reminded of the healing power of God, not only physically, emotionally, most importantly spiritually.
"He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. But those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint". -Isaiah 40:29-31
"He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. But those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint". -Isaiah 40:29-31
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Uganda Study Abroad: Visiting Mulago Hospital in Kampala
This is the same hospital that our KCC Bless Africa Medical Team visited during our trip. Our Uganda nurse friends, Grace and Rebecca (Timothy's wife) works here. Witnessing the health care system both inpatient and outpatient setting is very alarming. Just like the dietetics student said, "makes you wanna do more, come back and make things better".
Thursday, January 24, 2013
North Shore Hawaii Bound
God so amazing! God so amazing! Jesus Messiah name above all names! Blessed redeemer, Emmanuel!
Thank you for a wonderful North Shore family outing on Monday.
Thank you for a wonderful North Shore family outing on Monday.
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| Our favorite secret spot at No Shore |
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| Giovanni's famous garlic butter shrimps! |
Blessed to live in Hawaii.
Anthony having fun playing in the sand.
Continue to share Africa Mission Trip
Although I'm back to my normal schedule, I still have the excitement from our Africa Mission Trip. There was an open house for the Study Abroad Programs at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa today. I was looking for the table that says, "Uganda, Africa" or even "Africa" and there was none! I saw China, Switzerland, France, Italy, London, Bulgaria, Norway and other European countries and there was no table for Africa! The Study Abroad Program Coordinator encouraged me to take up the offer for the Fulbright Scholarship. She said that the Uganda Christian University can offer that to me if they really want to. The question is how I will bring my family there. The other option is to create a curriculum to take nursing students to Kampala for clinical rotations. Fervent prayers is what I need right now! All I can think and hear right now is one of the songs from Babylon VBS, "God is watching, watching over you, 24/7 He's watching over you. Your life is in His Hands, He's got great big plans and He's watching over you!"
Another exciting day for me that I finally visited Madam Nancy Walch and Sir Gerhart Walch at their Bishop Street office in downtown Honolulu. The fabulous couple prepared a filipino lunch (kare-kare with sautéed alamang, fried fish with sawsawan garlic and vinegar, chicken papaya, and banana lumpia). I had a grand time with them overlooking the fantastic breathtaking view of downtown Honolulu. We went to visit Madam Elsa downstairs but she was busy meeting with her clients.
Another exciting day for me that I finally visited Madam Nancy Walch and Sir Gerhart Walch at their Bishop Street office in downtown Honolulu. The fabulous couple prepared a filipino lunch (kare-kare with sautéed alamang, fried fish with sawsawan garlic and vinegar, chicken papaya, and banana lumpia). I had a grand time with them overlooking the fantastic breathtaking view of downtown Honolulu. We went to visit Madam Elsa downstairs but she was busy meeting with her clients.
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| Nancy writing a check for the Bless Africa Mission |
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| with her pasalubong African bowl with good luck elephant and a picture of me and our sponsor child, Jerusha |
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| Spectacular view of downtown Honolulu from Madam Nancy's office |
By the way, Madame Nancy is co-sponsoring Jerusha from SIITA NEST with my daughter Joy. She just love the picture of Jerusha and me and ask for her own copy as you see on this post with the African Elephant bowl.
Monday, January 21, 2013
Amazing Grace!
Amazing Grace Lyrics
John Newton (1725-1807)
Stanza 6 anon.
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,Stanza 6 anon.
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we've been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
Uganda Christian University Purple Nursing Program Bus!
I do believe in signs. How crazy it may sound this time I believe purple is the sign! When Moses took some of us on a tour at Uganda Christian University we happen to pass by parked school buses. I got excited when I spotted the Nursing Program bus and to my delight it was in this beautiful delicious "ube" purple color! My favorite color!
and not only the bus that caught my eye. As we were exiting the campus going back to where our van was parked, there were houses and dormitories spread out the campus. I noticed houses in purple!
It may sound crazy, to me it is a sign! I kept thinking about the purple bus and houses. On Sunday night after we arrived from Africa, I decided to write an inquiry letter to the Uganda Christian University Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Musisi Senyonyi. To my surprise, on Monday night I received an email from Dr. Karen Drake at Bethel University. Apparently UCU and Bethel University has a partnership in the development of the nursing program. This coming September 2013, 18 students from Bethel University will be studying at UCU and some students from UCU will be studying at Bethel University in Saint Paul MN. There are three nursing programs going on at UCU: degree completion program which Jemimah Mutabaazi and Dr. Drake started in 2006. Then in 2008 Dr. Drake started a master's program for nurse educators. UCU is the only master's program in the country of Uganda. There's a new one that is educating nurse midwives at the master's level. Probably the Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery that we passed by on our way back to Kingfisher's. I had asked our Uganda van driver Ronald to slow down so I can take the picture of this Jinja nursing school. Little did I know that there's the opportunity to tour Uganda Christian University.
It is such an honor to be offered a Fulbright Scholarship without having to sit for an interview. God is awesome and powerful. I should know by now that NOTHING is impossible with God! Such a huge decision to make for it will affect my whole family and a drastic change from our current lifestyle. Another option offered to me is to teach a module which is 4-weeks at a time for a total of 3 modules. I've glanced at the UCU website and read through the university's Values and motto: Alpha & Omega, God the beginning and The End. Vision: A centre of excellence in the Heart of Africa. UCU mission is to be a dedicated christian university through teaching, scholarship, service, spiritual formation, student development and social involvement, to preparing students for thoughtful, productive lives of Christian faith and service! Everything I value and stand for!
Hah! Little did I know that there will be some Godstorming during my first Africa Mission Trip! God is amazing! What do you do with all of the options that God is showing in front of you? Fervent prayers is what I need right now!
and not only the bus that caught my eye. As we were exiting the campus going back to where our van was parked, there were houses and dormitories spread out the campus. I noticed houses in purple!
This is the entrance of UCU in Kampala
It may sound crazy, to me it is a sign! I kept thinking about the purple bus and houses. On Sunday night after we arrived from Africa, I decided to write an inquiry letter to the Uganda Christian University Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Musisi Senyonyi. To my surprise, on Monday night I received an email from Dr. Karen Drake at Bethel University. Apparently UCU and Bethel University has a partnership in the development of the nursing program. This coming September 2013, 18 students from Bethel University will be studying at UCU and some students from UCU will be studying at Bethel University in Saint Paul MN. There are three nursing programs going on at UCU: degree completion program which Jemimah Mutabaazi and Dr. Drake started in 2006. Then in 2008 Dr. Drake started a master's program for nurse educators. UCU is the only master's program in the country of Uganda. There's a new one that is educating nurse midwives at the master's level. Probably the Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery that we passed by on our way back to Kingfisher's. I had asked our Uganda van driver Ronald to slow down so I can take the picture of this Jinja nursing school. Little did I know that there's the opportunity to tour Uganda Christian University.
It is such an honor to be offered a Fulbright Scholarship without having to sit for an interview. God is awesome and powerful. I should know by now that NOTHING is impossible with God! Such a huge decision to make for it will affect my whole family and a drastic change from our current lifestyle. Another option offered to me is to teach a module which is 4-weeks at a time for a total of 3 modules. I've glanced at the UCU website and read through the university's Values and motto: Alpha & Omega, God the beginning and The End. Vision: A centre of excellence in the Heart of Africa. UCU mission is to be a dedicated christian university through teaching, scholarship, service, spiritual formation, student development and social involvement, to preparing students for thoughtful, productive lives of Christian faith and service! Everything I value and stand for!
Hah! Little did I know that there will be some Godstorming during my first Africa Mission Trip! God is amazing! What do you do with all of the options that God is showing in front of you? Fervent prayers is what I need right now!
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Sharing Bless Africa
We had a great Sunday School 2's and 3's class today! How about a Bless Africa Safari Adventure movie day? Brought back wooden handcrafted safari animals from Uganda, Africa and shared them with the children. We had slideshow movies of Safari Adventure and SIITA Nest pictures of the children at the orphanage. The kids didn't care for the Istanbul, Turkey slideshow. They watched the Safari Adventure slideshow over and over again. The parents got to watch a part of it while they're picking up their kids after the first service.
I forgot to mention that I work 7pm-1130 pm shift at The Queen's Medical Center's Emergency Department last night (RN Case Manager). It was not as bad as I imagined. I was busy reviewing charts for admissions and observation status. Never had the chance to visit my friend's dad who has been admitted on the neurology floor for status post fall and mini stroke. The physician's concluded that he had ICH which is intra cerebral hemorrhage, in short there was bleeding in the brain caused by the fall leading to a head injury and causing the bleeding. Praying that his condition will turn for the better and he will not have residuals from the stroke. Praying for peace and strength for the family.
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| Jenna enjoyed holding and looking at the carved animals. |
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| Elsie is checking out the zebra. |
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| Anthony is getting the giraffe ready for the kids to see. |
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| The kids watching the slideshow while having their goldfish crackers snack. |
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| We had to turned off the lights in the class room so the children can see the beautiful animals we saw at the Safari. |
First Saturday Morning Back from Africa
Another decision making, do we go to Polynesian Cultural Center today for the annual Moanikeala Festival for Joy's hula performance with Halau Hula Olana or to Anthony's 2nd basketball game at Salt Lake? Joy didn't know details about the festival andAnthony begged us to watch his game. So off we go to Salt Lake District Park to watch the Lakeside Basketball Team.
Anthony's team didn't win but it was a great game. I was the cheer leader which embarrassed Joy & Ray. Ray warned not to hurt myself because I kept hitting my knees and legs while cheering on. When the ball is at the other team's court I kept shouting "defense! defense". I think it worked because the other team didn't score for a long time. When the ball is with Lakeside (Anthony's) team I yelled, "Go Lakeside, get that ball in"! It only worked once. ;) Overall it was an awesome experience for the kids. After the game Joy & I headed to Ward Warehouse to look for her school shoes. She's now size 8! Can you believe that? She was only size 6 early last year and has been wearing my shoes (including my high heels working shoes)!
Friday Back from Africa
TGIF! I finally got 10 hrs sleep last night! I went to bed around 8:30 pm and woke up at 6:30 am. Last night I met up with a very good friend and colleague I call "Gayyem" friend in Filipino/Ilocano. Her name is Edna and she's got a bubbly personality and great to be with and my "best friend forever"! (BFF).
Here we are @ Chili's Pearlridge having our first dinner/margarita together for year 2013! Happy New Year!
Here we are @ Chili's Pearlridge having our first dinner/margarita together for year 2013! Happy New Year!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Another TAMC Day!
Yes, I was talking about the pink building but I never show what it is. The home of hundreds of army and other military personnel, Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC), a stone's throw away from my home.
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| There's the pink building atop Moanalua hill |
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
The Pink Building
Today I'm heading to Tripler Army Medical Center to prepare my students for their clinical rotations this Spring semester. Nine of my eleven clinical students are having their clinical practicum at various units at TAMC and also presenting their capstone projects in April.
I forgot about the cheap lunch at TAMC. Even Ray and the kids love the chicken cordon bleu. I used to work at TAMC MEDONC as a charge/staff RN. My family used to have lunch on Sundays when I have to work 12-hr shifts.
I forgot about the cheap lunch at TAMC. Even Ray and the kids love the chicken cordon bleu. I used to work at TAMC MEDONC as a charge/staff RN. My family used to have lunch on Sundays when I have to work 12-hr shifts.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Home Sweet Home!
It's great to be back home with my family and friends. I left a part of me in Uganda with the people I met, Mama Alice and the precious children of SITTA NEST and the staff at Living Hope Medical Center. Today our Africa Mission Team gave our testimonies to the KCC members. We were all fired up when asked by Pastor Perry to come up on the stage to sing and dance some of the Vacation Bible School music ("Watching Over you" and "Only a Prayer Away").
I took many video snippets and just now looking through them. Rich memories of the children and people of Uganda. I'm definitely going back to follow-up on Dr. Alfred and his staff. Now that I have a better idea of what to expect, "we'll" be more prepared and ready to share even more things with them. We are spoiled here in the U.S. from toilet paper and paper towel to having alcohol pads and normal saline flush at the tip of our fingers.
I took many video snippets and just now looking through them. Rich memories of the children and people of Uganda. I'm definitely going back to follow-up on Dr. Alfred and his staff. Now that I have a better idea of what to expect, "we'll" be more prepared and ready to share even more things with them. We are spoiled here in the U.S. from toilet paper and paper towel to having alcohol pads and normal saline flush at the tip of our fingers.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Day 19 Africa Mission Trip 2012-2013 (Hilton LAX)
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Good morning! I'm so ready to go home! Having a great breakfast at the Bistro in Hilton LAX with my favorite room mate Laura and Bridgette and her son. The egg sandwich was fresh and hot! Fruit platter was fresh! And a tall size cafe mocha!
Sunrise in LA!
Good morning! I'm so ready to go home! Having a great breakfast at the Bistro in Hilton LAX with my favorite room mate Laura and Bridgette and her son. The egg sandwich was fresh and hot! Fruit platter was fresh! And a tall size cafe mocha!
Sunrise in LA!
Friday, January 11, 2013
Day 18 Africa Mission Trip 2012-2013 (Los Angeles)
Friday, January 11, 2013 or is it?
Our team just arrived at LAX this afternoon from Istanbul, Turkey after a grueling 13 hours flight from Entebbe, Uganda Africa. It seems like eternity. We're back in America! Tucked away my outlet adapter and my 98.11% deet bug spray. Some of us left our hearts in Africa with the beautiful kids at Kampala (Gospel of Light Church and Living Hope Medical Center) and in Jinja with Mama Alice and all the extra special children at SIITA Nest (most especially our sponsor children, sons and daughters).
For some of us it feels like a spectacular fulfilling dream and some of us will make some dramatic changes in our lives. Our time in Africa seems going too fast and when we get in touch with our family back home ( Hawaii) our time in Africa seems forever.
One wish I have is to take Margaret back to Hawaii if not forever, even just for a vacation. I would have taken her back to Kingfisher to have a FB video chat with Ray, Joy and Anthony. There are rules to follow in order to keep things in perspective. If I have my way, Margaret would be staying with me at Kingfisher while the team is there. I know Mama Alice will not allow that. The first time I met Margaret during the pool party, I wanted to take her back to my cottage to have a private quality time with her. Mama Alice had this look on her face and said in her African accent, "It is better not to. We don't allow such". I respected that and was satisfied sitting with Margaret on the green grassy area of the resort. I was truly satisfied that day and my heart was so full especially when I was walking in the swimming pool side by side and hand in hand with our Margaret. She shared with me that she wanted to be a journalist someday. Her older sister Joy also wanted to be a journalist. Then during our days spent at SIITA Nest, Lilian who was one of the SIITA Nest girls is taking courses to be a news anchor someday.
Our mission trip gave me many perspectives in life. Getting to know the team members is one thing, and understanding the culture and the people of Africa is another. I had to remember that we are not perfect.
Our team just arrived at LAX this afternoon from Istanbul, Turkey after a grueling 13 hours flight from Entebbe, Uganda Africa. It seems like eternity. We're back in America! Tucked away my outlet adapter and my 98.11% deet bug spray. Some of us left our hearts in Africa with the beautiful kids at Kampala (Gospel of Light Church and Living Hope Medical Center) and in Jinja with Mama Alice and all the extra special children at SIITA Nest (most especially our sponsor children, sons and daughters).
For some of us it feels like a spectacular fulfilling dream and some of us will make some dramatic changes in our lives. Our time in Africa seems going too fast and when we get in touch with our family back home ( Hawaii) our time in Africa seems forever.
One wish I have is to take Margaret back to Hawaii if not forever, even just for a vacation. I would have taken her back to Kingfisher to have a FB video chat with Ray, Joy and Anthony. There are rules to follow in order to keep things in perspective. If I have my way, Margaret would be staying with me at Kingfisher while the team is there. I know Mama Alice will not allow that. The first time I met Margaret during the pool party, I wanted to take her back to my cottage to have a private quality time with her. Mama Alice had this look on her face and said in her African accent, "It is better not to. We don't allow such". I respected that and was satisfied sitting with Margaret on the green grassy area of the resort. I was truly satisfied that day and my heart was so full especially when I was walking in the swimming pool side by side and hand in hand with our Margaret. She shared with me that she wanted to be a journalist someday. Her older sister Joy also wanted to be a journalist. Then during our days spent at SIITA Nest, Lilian who was one of the SIITA Nest girls is taking courses to be a news anchor someday.
Our mission trip gave me many perspectives in life. Getting to know the team members is one thing, and understanding the culture and the people of Africa is another. I had to remember that we are not perfect.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Day 17 Africa Mission Trip 2012-2013 (Kampala, Uganda Africa)
Friday, January 11, 2013
We're here at Sheraton Kampala and getting ready to leave for Entebbe Airport. This has been an amazing mission trip. We expected to teach the people of Africa but we ended up learning from their ways and character of gratefulness and contentment.
The beauty of Africa is found in it's rich culture where people learn to live simply. On our way coming in I noticed that every house that we passed by has a small farm of banana, corn, cassava and sweet potato.
One of my favorite dish here is the Matoke, or Matooke, a plantain banana dish from Uganda can be made with or without the meat. Laura, my room mate can eat chapati all day long. Here's a link on how to make chapati. This one's for you Laura.
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-East-African-Chapati
We're here at Sheraton Kampala and getting ready to leave for Entebbe Airport. This has been an amazing mission trip. We expected to teach the people of Africa but we ended up learning from their ways and character of gratefulness and contentment.
The beauty of Africa is found in it's rich culture where people learn to live simply. On our way coming in I noticed that every house that we passed by has a small farm of banana, corn, cassava and sweet potato.
One of my favorite dish here is the Matoke, or Matooke, a plantain banana dish from Uganda can be made with or without the meat. Laura, my room mate can eat chapati all day long. Here's a link on how to make chapati. This one's for you Laura.
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-East-African-Chapati
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Day 16 Africa Mission Trip 2012-2013 (Kampala)
Thursday, January 10, 2013
We're back to civilization where there's consistent internet access and American foods! Mama Alice didn't know who I was when I first met her at Kingfisher Safari Resort during the Pool Party. Then I met her again at Siita Nest and she said to me, "I didn't know you at first and wondering who this lady was. Then I saw you on FaceBook and now I know you're the Armstrong Family!" Yes, Mama Alice from Jinja Uganda Africa has a FB Account! I'm going to miss her and her children at Siita Nest.
School started at UH Manoa last Monday, January 7th. I checked my email messages at work and thought to myself, "Back to reality"! Thank goodness I'm not scheduled to lecture until the first week of Feb.
I was able to FB video chat with my family back in Hawaii. Anthony was at basketball practice and Joy was about to do her homework. My husband announced that our bird named Peter had an egg earlier and now there's four eggs in the cage. After losing our baby bird few days ago, God blessed us, mainly Ray with four eggs to incubate and care for after they hatch.
Today some of the Africa Mission Team members had the privilege to visit the Uganda Christian University campus. Moses, Gloria Chapman's son took us on a tour. Then we headed down to the Uganda Hospital to visit Grace and Rebecca. They took us on a tour to the ICU, Pediatric burn unit and Cardio Thoracic Unit. That was quite an experience. We're not allowed to take pictures inside the hospital. All I can say is that it is similar to public hospitals in the Philippines. There were beds and sleeping mats on the floor and everyone is in one big room. We met the charge nurse in the ICU and she reminded Grace and Rebecca that we're not to take pictures.
I have several pictures taken inside the Uganda Christian University. I was delighted to see that UCU has a nursing program and their school bus for the department is in a beautiful purple. It doesn't take much to delight me and that made my day!
We're back to civilization where there's consistent internet access and American foods! Mama Alice didn't know who I was when I first met her at Kingfisher Safari Resort during the Pool Party. Then I met her again at Siita Nest and she said to me, "I didn't know you at first and wondering who this lady was. Then I saw you on FaceBook and now I know you're the Armstrong Family!" Yes, Mama Alice from Jinja Uganda Africa has a FB Account! I'm going to miss her and her children at Siita Nest.
School started at UH Manoa last Monday, January 7th. I checked my email messages at work and thought to myself, "Back to reality"! Thank goodness I'm not scheduled to lecture until the first week of Feb.
I was able to FB video chat with my family back in Hawaii. Anthony was at basketball practice and Joy was about to do her homework. My husband announced that our bird named Peter had an egg earlier and now there's four eggs in the cage. After losing our baby bird few days ago, God blessed us, mainly Ray with four eggs to incubate and care for after they hatch.
Today some of the Africa Mission Team members had the privilege to visit the Uganda Christian University campus. Moses, Gloria Chapman's son took us on a tour. Then we headed down to the Uganda Hospital to visit Grace and Rebecca. They took us on a tour to the ICU, Pediatric burn unit and Cardio Thoracic Unit. That was quite an experience. We're not allowed to take pictures inside the hospital. All I can say is that it is similar to public hospitals in the Philippines. There were beds and sleeping mats on the floor and everyone is in one big room. We met the charge nurse in the ICU and she reminded Grace and Rebecca that we're not to take pictures.
I have several pictures taken inside the Uganda Christian University. I was delighted to see that UCU has a nursing program and their school bus for the department is in a beautiful purple. It doesn't take much to delight me and that made my day!
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| Here's the beautiful purple Nursing Program bus! |
Day 15 Africa Mission Trip 2012-2013 (Last Day at Siita Nest)
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Hand Hygiene
Today is our last day here at Kingfisher's and Siita Nest Orphanage which means my last day to see my daughter, Margaret. Thank you Lord for allowing me to see your goodness in people, like Mama Alice. I know I have a lot of work to do with my character. Thank you for giving me the privilege to see you in the people of Africa. Mama Alice is a great example of a mother's tough love. I was able to find two new children to sponsor. Joel and Jerusha, both 7 years old. There's another girl who wrote me a letter requesting to be sponsored. She's 18 years old. We'll pray about her and hope that God will find her a sponsor.
Hand Hygiene
Today is our last day here at Kingfisher's and Siita Nest Orphanage which means my last day to see my daughter, Margaret. Thank you Lord for allowing me to see your goodness in people, like Mama Alice. I know I have a lot of work to do with my character. Thank you for giving me the privilege to see you in the people of Africa. Mama Alice is a great example of a mother's tough love. I was able to find two new children to sponsor. Joel and Jerusha, both 7 years old. There's another girl who wrote me a letter requesting to be sponsored. She's 18 years old. We'll pray about her and hope that God will find her a sponsor.
Last Day at Siita Nest
Last Day at King Fisher. The older children who completed the Leadership Training with Pastor Perry and Rev. Skip Kite
with our sponsor child/daughter, Margaret
with Mama Alice, love her like a grandma.
Juliet, she's a teacher and completed a degree in Public Health. She speaks good English and was my interpreter during dental and hand hygiene teaching
This is Lillian. She was Siita Nest child and now attending the University to be a journalist. She dreams of becoming a news anchor.
This is beautiful Jerusha, she's Joy's sponsor child.
 |
| Our beautiful daughter Margaret. |
Laura was such a magnet to the kids. As soon as we get out of our van, the kids just latch on to her.
Beautiful Esther.
Our last day and goodbyes were endless. We were supposed to head back to our hotel around 11:45 am and we didn't leave the orphanage until about 1 pm. Kids were just hanging on to us and we were hanging on to them.
Day 14 Africa Mission Trip 2012-2013 (Hand Hygiene at Jinja, Siita Nest)
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Hand Hygiene
God is faithful and true! This is our second day at SIITA NEST and the kids are waiting for more education. I realized we only have a few soap to go around.
Here's part of the Hand Hygiene segment of the day. This was put together at 3:00 am inside Cottage number 102:
"Our hands are important part of our bodies. God gave us our hands so we can do many things. Without our hands we can't touch and feel things. We can't hold each other. We can't hold things, objects. We can't touch our face. We can't drive, although I know of people who can do these things without their hands and by using their feet! With God nothing is impossible!
What other ways can we use our hands on a daily basis? We use our hands for many many things. We eat with our hands. We need our hands to write down or type our thoughts and ideas. Yesterday you learn how to brush your teeth properly. You used your hands and fingers to hold the toothbrush and brush up and down, round and round motions. We use our hands to open things like opening the door. We use our hands to clean our selves, when we take a bath, we use our hands to wash with soap and water. We use our hands when we wash our private areas in the wash room. We use our hands to wave hello and goodbye. What do you do when you greet someone? You some, and you say "how are you?" Then you shake hands. We use our hands to pray, we put our hands together, close our eyes and pray. We can do many many things with our hands. Our hands can also carry germs from one person to another. If a person is sick, when we sneeze, we tend to cover our mouths with our hands. The germs from our mouth and the mucous that came out from our nostrils are now in our hands. Imagine the germs now in your hands!"
Activities for younger children:
1) Sing the "Hand Song": I have two hands, the left and the right, hold them up high so clean and bright. Clap them softly, one, two, three. Clean little hands are good to see!"
2) Trace both their hands on a paper with crayons and may color them to their liking. Write down their names.
For older children: Draw a picture of ways that we use our hands.
I think these pictures truly speak for itself on how the children see themselves using their hands.
Additional teaching for older children:
Many years ago people are dying from having surgeries. No matter how careful the doctors are with their procedures, people are still dying, not from the surgery but from infection. So there was an investigation and it was found that the infection was due to doctors, nurses and other health care members are not washing their hands properly. The germs on their hands are transferred from patient to patient.
We are going to wash our hands with soap and water and while washing we are going to sing, "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" or you can also sing the "Happy Birthday Song".
We had chapati, african rice, goat stew and fried chicken. We had Laura go last because she loves the chapati to death and we're worried that there will be none for us if she goes first. For dessert we had fresh pineapple. We fellowship and worshipped. Joshua, son of the Julius and Margaret took out his guitar. The rest of the night were spent worshipping and singing to Jesus. Our stomach were full with delicious authentic African foods. Our hearts were full of love and admiration for Jesus as we ready to leave for the night. The mosquitoes were just waiting for us! Mind you of all the nights, that night the electricity went off so we end up with a candle light dinner high atop the hill overlooking Lake Victoria. Wonderful family of God.
Hand Hygiene
God is faithful and true! This is our second day at SIITA NEST and the kids are waiting for more education. I realized we only have a few soap to go around.
Here's part of the Hand Hygiene segment of the day. This was put together at 3:00 am inside Cottage number 102:
"Our hands are important part of our bodies. God gave us our hands so we can do many things. Without our hands we can't touch and feel things. We can't hold each other. We can't hold things, objects. We can't touch our face. We can't drive, although I know of people who can do these things without their hands and by using their feet! With God nothing is impossible!
What other ways can we use our hands on a daily basis? We use our hands for many many things. We eat with our hands. We need our hands to write down or type our thoughts and ideas. Yesterday you learn how to brush your teeth properly. You used your hands and fingers to hold the toothbrush and brush up and down, round and round motions. We use our hands to open things like opening the door. We use our hands to clean our selves, when we take a bath, we use our hands to wash with soap and water. We use our hands when we wash our private areas in the wash room. We use our hands to wave hello and goodbye. What do you do when you greet someone? You some, and you say "how are you?" Then you shake hands. We use our hands to pray, we put our hands together, close our eyes and pray. We can do many many things with our hands. Our hands can also carry germs from one person to another. If a person is sick, when we sneeze, we tend to cover our mouths with our hands. The germs from our mouth and the mucous that came out from our nostrils are now in our hands. Imagine the germs now in your hands!"
Activities for younger children:
1) Sing the "Hand Song": I have two hands, the left and the right, hold them up high so clean and bright. Clap them softly, one, two, three. Clean little hands are good to see!"
2) Trace both their hands on a paper with crayons and may color them to their liking. Write down their names.
For older children: Draw a picture of ways that we use our hands.
I think these pictures truly speak for itself on how the children see themselves using their hands.
Additional teaching for older children:
Many years ago people are dying from having surgeries. No matter how careful the doctors are with their procedures, people are still dying, not from the surgery but from infection. So there was an investigation and it was found that the infection was due to doctors, nurses and other health care members are not washing their hands properly. The germs on their hands are transferred from patient to patient.
We are going to wash our hands with soap and water and while washing we are going to sing, "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" or you can also sing the "Happy Birthday Song".
Lillian helping with hand hygiene
Dinner at Julius and Margaret
Pastor Perry and Team A were invited for an African dinner at the residence of Juluis and Margaret. We sort of got lost thinking their house is nearby The Rivers of Life Church in Jinja when all along they are a few stones throw away from SIITA NEST. It was all worth it getting lost for a short time. When we got at the house we realized that we are high atop the hill overlooking Lake Victoria. Beautiful sight it was but I had to get inside the house of I'll be dinner for the mosquitoes that might be carrying the malaria virus.
We had chapati, african rice, goat stew and fried chicken. We had Laura go last because she loves the chapati to death and we're worried that there will be none for us if she goes first. For dessert we had fresh pineapple. We fellowship and worshipped. Joshua, son of the Julius and Margaret took out his guitar. The rest of the night were spent worshipping and singing to Jesus. Our stomach were full with delicious authentic African foods. Our hearts were full of love and admiration for Jesus as we ready to leave for the night. The mosquitoes were just waiting for us! Mind you of all the nights, that night the electricity went off so we end up with a candle light dinner high atop the hill overlooking Lake Victoria. Wonderful family of God.
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