Uganda Read This!: The Envelope Please

Is it the Oscars, VMA’s, Grammy’s, Tony’s, or Kids Choice Awards? Nope.

It’s better.

After being in Uganda for just over a year (yikes!), it is time to announce the first annual “Tarawards”. Thanks Meish!

Here you have it ladies and gentlemen…

Snail Mail Master: While I have received many cards of various sorts… Halloween Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Birthday… This award has to go to Mrs. Linda Copeland. Linda’s letters brighten my days as I find myself reading all about her family and the everyday happenings of life in Novato. Close runner-ups include Baba Mila and my wonderful sisters!

Skype Star and FaceTime Fan: Well I actually haven’t Skyped anyone since I left home, so if you want to be considered, let’s plan a date! Mommy Matthews and I managed to FaceTime once, which I was able to see her face and a quick tour of my newly painted room at home.

#1 Package Provider: Mama and Papa Matthews. Everything from beef jerky and razors to pictures and money wrapped and sealed in protein powder, they have done so much! I am always in shock when I get the email saying, “Here’s a tracking number for a package we sent off.” I don’t understand why I got blessed with awesome parents. Notable mention to Nana Matthews and her awesome Halloween package and Christmas care box.

Most Unexpected Package Provider: Mrs. Parker and Emily. When Scovia, the post office lady brought out thebox my jaw dropped. I was in shock at its size and the generous thoughts that filled the box with love, pixie sticks that make the village children so happy, Trader Joe’s delectable goods, toys, magazines, Emily’s save the date, and the awesome letter that continues to inspire me day to day. Notable mention to Baba Mila for your shipment of molasses chips that managed to stay fresh in its month and a half journey to Uganda.

Finest Facebook Follower: Too many to name. All I know is that when I upload new pictures or a status about Ugandan life, I always receive comments, likes and shares, which reminds me how closely connected our worlds are, even given the different lives we may be leading.

Top Blog Aficionado: Although I cannot tell from my blog who is reading it, I can only imagine that my Dad is my #1 supporter. He has encouraged me to write and whenever I do I am always reminded of his support in this experience and how much I miss him and everyone at home. I know my mom, sisters, my neighbor Nancy, and many others are up there as well… Including those in Germany, Iceland, and Russia.

Looking for a shout out of your own? Feel free to make a trip out and be bestowed the “7 Time Zones Later Award” or be the top person to comment on or share my blog to win the “What Do Ya Have to Say Award”.

Honestly though, thank you to everyone who has sent letters, pictures, packages, prayers, support, and thoughts. I could have not made it through the past 13 months; 57 weeks; 400 days; 576,000 minutes; 34,560,000 seconds without you.