#12 – It is hot here!

From Lynne:

We are working hard and having a great time here.

That's me!

We try hard to stay cool.

My brother-in-law Jim

JoAnn is a great host.

JoAnn is my main liason here.

Marion is very welcoming and helpful, too.

Marion and everyone here are so kind and generous.

We work through the heat and take our breaks beneath trees, where workers sip tea and carouse.

The animals in the yard huddle in the shadow of building and trees, too.

Did I mention it is hot? There is no air conditioning even if we had regular electricity, and it has been 90 in our house and hotter outside! One night Jim and I asked JoAnn to take us for a ride to town just to be in the air-conditioned car! Driving is terrifying, and if there are rules, you can’t tell it. Roads are little more than paths in most places, and they are shared by people, animals and cars without much consideration each for the other.

#11 – Where AIDS is hidden

From Lynne:

This is an AIDS center where we went to buy the crafts they make.

The person JoAnn knows was not there that day, so we just visited and talked to some of the residents. Many people speak little or no English (about as much as I speak Acholi), and conversations are limited.

I am in a setting where AIDS is hidden. In fact, when I say I work at a residence for people with AIDS, people are quiet. Some say it is a wonderful ministry, but, literally, there is no follow up. I have seen people who are obviously affected, but I have not had one conversation other than with my hosts.

Everything is old, like the wheelchairs here outfitted with new bicycle tires.