1 July 2013

1 July 2013

The Market

Jamil

the boys

Jason

Zeke

Walter

Today we got an early start and headed to the central market to do some shopping. The market was eerily quiet since there has been some tensions due to the new budget being released here in Uganda, the matatu and boda drivers were striking today against the rising cost of fuel. The taxi park in Jinja was empty, which it never is. There are no problems here in Jinja, but there are some in the surrounding areas.

After the market we stopped at The Souce, one of our favorite places to eat in Jinja, and got some chocolate scones, a yummy treat. Then we headed back to the house to relax a bit before heading over to Ekisa.

We arrived at Ekisa, the special needs orphanage we work with, just as nap time was ending. Our first stop was the big boys room where they were ALL awake. It didn’t take long before we heard Auntie come, jangu. There were lots of hugs and cuddling to go around. The kids have all grown so much since we were here in October. Baby Grace is walking, Misach looks wonderful and is sitting up now, and it seemed like everyone else grew at least 6 inches. We sat and played, did school and just loved on the sweet kids who have stolen our hearts.

The boys quickly dragged Auntie Mallory into the yard, she is their favorite toy. Rachel got into a fun game of chase as she tried to catch Auntie Mallory. The giggles and laughs are music to my ears.

Sitting in the yard watching the babies lay and soak up the last bit of daylight, Zaka roam around collecting treasures, Walter kick a soccer ball, Ditte doing handstands, Zeke & Jamil try to climb a tree, and Paul..well just being Paul I was overwhelmed with love for them all. Knowing that in the eyes of many in Uganda, and unfortunately in lots of places around the world these children are truly considered the least of these. But I feel sorry for those who are quick to cast away children like these, because their love is endless, their laughter is truly contagious and the joy they bring to your heart is boundless.

Tired and dirty from playing we headed back to the house to join everyone for dinner and fellowship.