November 9th – A multi-sensory Taste Bud Experience

Today, I tried a Doritos Fusion flavor that is not available in the States. It was peppercorn, Italian cheeses and herbs. It claimed to provide a "multi-sensory taste bud experience." I don’t think it lived up to its claim, in fact I felt a little ill after eating them. However, my day did feel like a multi-sensory taste bud experience as we headed down to Mbarara. The journey took about four hours and during that time I got splashed by rain, breathed in a lot of exhaust and took in the many sites of the road including huge termite hills, big bundles of plantains transported by bicycle and gorgeous rolling hills. We also saw fields of what looked like huge green dandelions – like when they are in the white fluffy stage where you can blow on them and spread their seeds. It was really beautiful.

We also had the opportunity to partake in traditional Ugandan food. We had fried fish, matuke (this is mashed plantains that don't have much of a taste, not my favorite), chips (really good) and a vegetable stew. The food was overall very good. Now, the hotel on the other hand is a bit more on the rustic side of things. We have no hot water – so only bone-chilling showers for us. And we found ants all up in one of our cookie packets. We only have one more night here so I am certain it will be fine – I just might have really greasy hair.

Today, we also meet with the Dermatology program peeps. Dr. Grace and Francis are great! I really wish we could do more for them. Their biggest problem is actually attracted residents to their dermatology program. They have no new candidates for next year. Despite this they are both thirsty for knowledge and we can aim our training efforts on continuing education for these two physicians as well as their 2 dedicated nurses and one clinical officer.

My initial thoughts of Mbarara is that it’s very country, which is to be expected - a stark difference from Kampala. As a super city girl at heart I am very much missing the city-ness of Kampala. Oh, and I didn’t mention the tremendous amount of bats that are living in the trees above our Inn. Holy Batman there are hundreds of bats up there, which slightly freaks me out.

I am not too keen on the whole bat thing. Alright time to go to sleep, if possible. I am a little skidish about this place. But I need to sleep as we have much work to do tomorrow.