My Friend Flex

He's green. He's little. He has bug eyes. But he has been with me as a faithful companion since I arrived in Uganda five and a half months ago. So, this post is all about my friend Flex.

Flex showing just how hot it can get here in Uganda. It is hard to see, but the mercury is up there around 100 F.

Flex has found many of his own kind, including this little beauty, whom he calls his "girlfriend." I told him to be careful, she may actually be a long lost cousin of his.

Oops, this isn't Flex - must be another cousin. (BTW, she insisted I take only her "best side.")

Flex pointing out where Lingira Island should be on the map of Uganda.

Flex likes to "help" out with the daily chores.

Flex enjoying a nap on my solar shower.

Taking his basin bath. (Flex was a bit embarrassed that I would post this pic, but it's not like he wears clothes anyway.)

Posing with our two-burner gas stove on the island. Flex says it makes the best fried flies. I wouldn't know.

Hanging out in the SHIM administration building.

Flex is a very musically inclined and loves to play the drums - a favorite instrument here in Uganda.

Flex with Gloria, SHIM's secretary. This was right before Gloria tried to eat Flex, but I decided not to post those photos, so as not to frighten any children who might be reading this. 

Flex with some Ugandan foods. From top right, clockwise, Irish potatoes with ground-nut sauce, pineapple, avacado and cooked cabbage. Yum!!

Flex with a Ugandan standby - black tea - to be consumed in the morning, afternoon and evening, or when you need a cup.

Getting ready to boat from Jinja to Lingira Island. Flex loves riding on the boat!

Me and Flex (he's riding in the purse.)

(Note: This photo was taken shortly after I arrived in Uganda, so I am tanner now and my hair has succumbed to the heat and humidity.

Flex is thrilled that you took the time to look at all of his photos of him, but I had best quit for now as he seems to be getting a big head. Flex sends you all greetings from Uganda!

Note: No animals or plastic frogs were hurt in the making of this album.

Packing with My Pal Flex

 Hi, y'all! Time is passing quickly! If you wonder why I haven't posted in a few days, it is because I have been packing, saying goodbyes, trying to care of such details as taxes and voting, and just all around attempting to get ready to leave on Saturday for Uganda. Saturday, really? Wow, that is only like two days and a wake-up away! : )

 Part of yesterday and today were spent packing. It has taken longer than I thought it would be, hours in fact. But, I have had the companionship of my new frog pal, Flex. He was given to me by some dear friends who know my love of frogs. Flex is rubber and flexible, thus earning his name. He will be traveling with me to Uganda, so expect to see more of him. Here are some photos of our packing adventure.

The goal: To fit all of this, as well as my clothes and linens in a suitcase and storage tote, weighing a total of 120 pounds. Do you see my friend Flex in all this mess?

Ah, ha! There he is - trying to stow away in my bath tote! I'm learning that Flex is a sneaky guy! :)

Flex, up close and personal. (He really just wanted a photo of himself without all of my stuff.)

Not empty for long.

Just hanging out.

Flex doesn't weigh anything, so he can go. :)

Ziploc bags and rubber bands - a packer's best friends. :)

Flex takes it easy while I work.

Flex listens to violinist Joshua Bell while I slave away.

Oops, he almost got rolled up in one of my shirts.

Flex scales a mountain of clothes. He says I'm taking too much, but that's easy for him to say.

I had to move to a larger suitcase.

Flex gets caught in the middle.

 Well, you may be asking, did we do it? Did we fit all of my stuff in the suitcase and container? Well, you will have to wait and see 'cause we are still not done yet. :)  Flex and I will keep you posted.

 By the way, Flex said he's already packed.