Kampala, Uganda

I arrived in Entebbe, Uganda, early this morning--- about 5:40am to be exact--- after having left Geneva yesterday about 5pm lastnight (long trip with a quick stopover in London). Going through immigration seemed easy enough this morning; easier than I remember in any other African country. There was a small delay with the driver (car trouble) but he was along soon enough to pick me up. I felt bad for him though because who wants to pick someone up at the airport at 6am??? I waited for an hour, my book kept me company, and I enjoyed my first Ugandan sunrise.

I am here 'til Friday and then early Friday morning I am off to Bunia, DR Congo. I will rest there for the weekend and then Monday I will head to Isiro, where I should be for the next 3 months. There is a possibility of some "movement" from Isiro right before the run-off elections at the end of the Ocotober, but besides that I imagine I'll just stay put.

I would like to say I was a good daughter and took in Lake Victoria to the full extent when driving by this morning--- out of respect for my mom who loves that stuff--- but I was struggling to stay awake in the car. Ironically, I cannot sleep in a plane but have no problem falling asleep in a car. It was beautiful, but I hope to be more alert the next time I pass by.

The Medair Ugandan team I have met this far is great... all very friendly people. There is one guy here who I met last week in Ecublens during our briefing and... just seeing a familiar face was nice this morning. He arrived here on Friday. Yes, even I enjoy a familar face from time-to-time (quite more than I lead on, I imagine). :-)

I wish I had more to report. I was sitting up on the verandin (sp?--- the porch upstairs) and I heard some little kids laughing at the mzungu which caused a smile to break across my face. Haven't heard that in a while.

Am anxious, excited, nervous and did I mention anxious to get started with work. More from Congo in a few days.