taken.

Don’t fret. I’m not engaged.

But let me tell you what this little fakey is all about…

From all reports, I’ve heard that my white skin might make me stand out in Uganda. 

Duh.

Furthermore, I’ve been told that my white skin might make me stand out to men in Uganda, even men significantly older than me… creepy, aye?

In talking with one of my professors Jenn about the interviews we’ll be conducting with secondary Chemistry teachers while in country, I expressed my concern in conducting interviews with men a lot older than me.

Jenn says to me, “Like, you’re afraid that they might come on to you?”

Whaaaa? In my mind I’m thinking, ‘They’re going to take me as a young, stupid American girl that is unqualified to carry out this research.’

I hadn’t given too much thought to being hit on....

Jenn (in all of her wisdom and experience in all things Africa) immediately tells me: "Go buy a ring. Wear it at all times. If they ask, tell them, 'I’m in a committed relationship.'"

She told me that on a previous trip to Uganda, her 18-year-old daughter came away with 3 marriage proposals, and another friend told me that in her travels, only the married girls were left alone.

So, what did I do a couple of weeks ago with my mom?

We went ring shopping… at JC Penney’s. 

I found this little shiny for $10, and you can bet it’s never gonna leave my finger while I’m in Africa.

p.s. I’m realizing now that my mom and dad aren't going to appreciate the title of this post. Probably not my best choice of words…