Preparation and Relaxation

This week I've been working through the preparatory course for the VSO residential training weekend next week. I've been finding out a lot more about the political and economic situation of Uganda in comparison with other countries. I've also been finding out about the VSO Uganda strategic plan and my placement objectives.

Preparations for the ceilidh are continuing with baking and planning. There are still tickets for sale at the Post Office and Cardlands if anyone would like to join us.

We also took time out this week to visit Hardwick Hall with my mum last Sunday. We had a lovely lunch in the National Trust restaurant and a good look around the Hall and gardens. We were lucky that we had chosen a weekend when the attics were available to view. This got us talking about how we are going to pack and store our furniture and belongings while we're away.

 Yesterday evening I went to a party at the Community Centre where we will be holding the ceilidh in 2 weeks time. It was a lovely evening and chance to catch up with lots of friends. Now we don't meet up each day at the school gate it's much harder to keep in touch! Lots of ideas for making the hall look great for the ceilidh!

Every week is hectic!

I was thinking I've had a very hectic week when I realised that at the moment every week is hectic! 

Now that I'm into my notice period I'm starting to hand over my work and the accumulated knowledge from 18 years in the job. This week we've made a plan for my final 8 weeks at work and we're starting to work through it. I'm glad that I've given 3 months notice. My last day will be Thursday 12th September and we're starting to send out invitations to my leaving event. 

When I get home after work, I start on the preparation for the placement. I've had two injections this week, the first one for rabies protection and a booster for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. I've not had any problems with the injections so far I'm pleased to say and it's infinitely better than getting the diseases!!

Planning for the fundraising ceilidh in aid of VSO is moving forward with the tickets now on sale and posters up around the village. It should be an enjoyable evening as well as, hopefully, a successful fundraiser.
 I also joined the local York VSO support group at their meeting on Wednesday evening. It was great to hear about the experiences of returned volunteers. Unfortunately with the summer holidays upon us it is the last meeting I will be able to go to before I leave. But it's good to know that I will be able to bring back my experience to share with the group in 2 years time. I also now have some knowledgeable people to ask the very many questions I have. 

Starting Out

Welcome to my blog!

As I've started to let people know about my adventure over the past couple of weeks lots of people have said 'you must start a blog'. So here it is.

For those who don't know I've been selected as a volunteer with VSO and I will be going to Uganda at the end of September. I will be based in Kampala but working with lots of my employer organisation's partners mostly in the north of Uganda. I will be helping them with financial management and monitoring their funding.

For now my time is filled with training and preparation. There is so much to do! And of course I'm working my notice and trying to finish things off and pass on my work and knowledge.

I hope you enjoy following my adventure.

Alison