Exciting Times

I've been assisting in the Operating Theater almost every day. I assist with C-sections then the surgeon, Dr. Jude, lets me stitch up the skin when he is done. It has been so awesome to learn and participate. In the hospital I have received the nickname Nangobi. It means daughter of royalty. A few days ago I was talking to a proud new father and I asked him what he would name his baby girl. He said, "Maybe you can assist me, what is your name?" I told him, Miranda. He said, "Then we shall call her Miranda." On another occasion a father asked me to help with the naming of his daughter. He told me to pick an American name. I named her Michelle after my sister.

I love the little things that make the Ugandan people so unique. Twins are common here. Once a mother has produced twins she is called Nalongo and the father is called Salongo. If the twins are girls their names are always Babiriye and Kaudha. Boy twins are always named Waiswa and Kato. The child that follows twins is always named Kiiza. I think that having twins is and honor and an accomplishment and so the names are a way of celebrating. Women and girls kneel when greeting men and elders and also when offering something. It's their way of showing respect. Men pay for their wives with a dowry that is negociated with the woman's father. I'm impressed that people here can say yes with their eyebrows and point with their lips. People always say "well done" even when I haven't done anything. If it rains at a party everyone is happy because it means blessing from God. Time has a different meaning here, everything moves at a slower pace.

We had been going to the church in Jinja but we found out that there is a closer branch in Bugembe. The building used to be an old school and it is tucked away in a neighborhood. The small sign outside as you walk in is the old church logo. Sacrament meeting was held in a covered open area. After our meetings there was a baptism. The font was a large tank in the back of the building. The service was beautiful. I'm very impressed with the missionaries and excited to witness church growth here in Africa. We've had missionary opportunities here and anticipate many more! These are exciting times!