Hi! How are things at home? I have a chance now to catch you up. I think there's a lot, so I might write a few different entries. Hope you can read away. So- let's see- since July, when I think I updated last, we've settled in our new house. And I've learned my way around Kampala (gotta say, it gets easier each time I drive). And, I've had one consulting assignment after another! That's been nice, staying busy, feeling useful, and making some money are all good things around here :) We keep checking our bank statement in disbelief! Living in Kampala is kind of expensive!

It was so great to finally unpack all our boxes and put stuff out -- we really had forgotten what we brought here, it had been so long! and the house is bigger than we have stuff for, so that means over time we'll see what else we can find... but we've even got a space to put a crib, and a whole room that can be filled with toys and other "babystuff" so we're on our way.

Driving has been quite the challenging experience. There are tons of cars on the road here - but many drivers don't have licenses. Or training. And, on top of the crazy ridiculously reckless driving, people are walking on both sides of the road, there are storm sewer ditches on both sides, there are super deep potholes that everyone weaves around, motorcycles whizzing by, people with wheelbarrows (carrying home a refrigerator in a wheelbarrow is pretty common), glass sheets transported on the backs of bicycles... all kinds of things. Are you getting an idea? It's complete chaos. At first I would hold my breath, and cry. But now I just curse at everyone :) and muscle my way through, just like everyone else. I've gotten pretty good at darting between cars parked in traffic when trying to make a turn! And weaving between potholes, ditches, and on coming cars. The best is when a car comes at you IN YOUR LANE, so they are obviously on the wrong side, and yet they glare and honk and flash lights at you, like its your fault if they smash into you. Usually i just stop, it makes them have to travel around me. I think other drivers are too impatient. Nothing happens quickly -- anywhere I've lived in Africa - except when people are in the car, they just can't get there soon enough.

So i drive pretty slow for Ugandan standards - and from inside the car I make all kinds of comments :) But I know how to get where I need to go, and its good, since every week or so I change assignments!

Before we head home, I'll try and post a picture of my little Suzuki. We're becoming fast friends.