Hello faithful readers!
Well, I promised a conclusion to this wild adventure, but it's taken me awhile to actually want to sit down and actually get it done! When I returned home last weekend, I slept for about 40 hours straight--and I am still tired and suffering from jet lag, even this week. All that flying and crossing date lines really messes with your body's time clock. Of course, it doesn't help that I am also suffering from a nasty cough, cold, and laryngitis! I cannot talk at all, which is so awful because I want to talk and share about my trip. Sigh. So I am resting today, hoping that sleep and down time will help me recover, even though life and laundry are piling up around me.
I guess another reason I procrastinated about getting this blog post done was the fact that in writing a conclusion, it would mean the story is actually over. That makes me sad. I miss Thailand and Cambodia; I want to go back someday. Life there seems so much simpler--it isn't, of course, but it's so far away from the "American" mindset. Especially in Cambodia, where hot water and mattresses are a luxury, it was really humbling to see how much one really needs. It was a good reminder for me just how blessed I am to live in a country where mattresses, hot water, safe drinking water, washing machines, ovens, etc. etc. etc. --are the norm!
For example, the students who live in the student center were so grateful for whatever they had. It was a true sacrifice for them to attend university; the $400-500 a YEAR it cost for tuition was a serious amount of money to come up with each year. Of course, that doesn't include money for housing, food, etc. Those eleven students were so thankful to be living, rent-free, at the student center because if they had to pay another $40-60 dollars a month for an apartment (a room, really), they probably would not have been able to go to university. I have never seen such ambitious students! They were smart, articulate, and very determined. There were business majors, finance majors, accounting majors, future lawyers, doctors, teachers. They were so determined to get a good education and change Cambodia for the better!
These students definitely left an impression on my heart. I wish you could have been there to experience their light . . . and especially the way they prayed. During prayer time, instead of one person praying out loud, all of the students would pray out loud. It was amazing to just sit there and listen to eleven Cambodian students praying out loud in the Khmer language. It actually gave me goosebumps just listening to them and the earnestness of their words. I will never forget it.
Oh, there is so much I could write about! I am so glad I was able to go to Cambodia and Thailand; it is amazing to see God working in each of these countries! I guess one thing that stands out to me from this experience is the fact that we all have a part in the kingdom! I saw so many examples of how God is using people from around the world for His purpose! So many answered prayers, so many people who were willing to give their time, money, and lives . . . it was so encouraging to see God working and bringing people together!
Also, I am really glad I was able to go on this trip alone. It definitely was a new experience for me to travel by myself, but overall, it was a good thing. Because I was by myself and not part of a larger group, with friends, etc., I was forced to get out of my comfort zone. My time with the students in Cambodia was reinforced by the fact that I was by myself--I was able to make friends and blend more easily into their world. I think if I would have been with a group, the tendency is to act as a group and gravitate towards the familiar, etc. I liked being free to be one of the students, to stay up late talking, to experience the everyday structure of their lives.
Also, I was so proud of myself for traveling 18,000 miles (round trip) on my own! I would be lying if I said it didn't absolutely terrify me, but I wasn't really alone--God was with me every step of the way! Again, because I was alone, I was able to meet and talk with so many people--on the planes (I took a total of 12 flights!), in the airports, etc. It was so fascinating! People are so interesting . . . and everyone has a story.
One thing people have been asking me when they find out I've just returned from Thailand and Cambodia is: "Weren't you afraid?" I think what is scary is the unknown. People are afraid of what they do not know. Of course I was afraid to travel to Thailand and Cambodia (seriously, who goes to Cambodia?:), but "everything that is worthwhile in life is scary"! It reminds me of my first hours in Cambodia. At the airport, I split up from Dave and John and traveled with the students to the student center. There I was, traveling with strangers, at night, in a random city where I couldn't speak the language--and I just had to laugh! :) If traveling teaches you anything, it's that the world may seem scary and big, but in reality, it's made up of many good people just like you and me. Of course, there are bad people in the world, but being stupid and being fearless are two entirely different things! :)
There's a quote by Anne Frank that I posted a few days back, but I think it applies to this post as well. "We all live with the objective of being happy, our lives are all different and yet the same." So true!
Thank you to all who have been reading my blog--I appreciate it!
Thank you, God, for giving me this opportunity--I can do nothing without you.
Susannah
"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do. " (Eleanor Roosevelt)
"Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little." (Edmund Burke)
"If you woke up breathing, congratulations! You have another chance." (A. Boydstort)
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him." (Romans 8:28)
Friday, February 23, 2007
Thursday, February 15, 2007
I say "No!" to eating congealed blood cubes!
Hello all!
Sorry it's been awhile since I last posted; I've been busy and haven't had the opportunity to use the computer. Well, the last time I wrote I think I was leaving for Thailand . . . what an adventure! My flight to Bangkok was fine, no worries. My flight to Chiang Mai, however, was another story. My original flight was cancelled, and I was booked on a later flight. So now my flight is later than expected, and I'm not sure if there will be someone to pick me up at the airport. So I went through passport control, which took forever, and my heart started beating faster as I headed for the arrivals meeting section. I scanned the crowd for a familiar face, any familiar face. Nope, nothing. People are meeting friends and family members all around me, hugging, filming each joyous reunion, etc. etc. etc. and I just stand there, feeling quite alone in the world. So I decide to call Tutu; Dave had given me her number "just in case." Well, he forgot one digit in the number so not only did I have a heck of a time figuring out the phone, but I had to ask someone what the extra digit should be (they have 10 digits; he had forgotten the "8" that goes in the beginning of the number--don't ask me!?!)
So! I finally got a hold of Tutu, her brother had just left the airport for the second time. He had been waiting at the Domestic gate, but I had flown International from Phnom Penh, so we missed each other. Also, when Tutu and Debbie showed up and saw my flight was cancelled, they tried to ask to see if I was on the next flight, but they didn't know my last name so Thai Airways wouldn't give them any information!!!!! Crazy!!! It was a long day; I almost LOST IT at the airport, but I was able to calm myself down ("You're ok, you're ok, you're ok") and get on with figuring out what I was going to do if no one came to pick me up. So, long story long:), I finally made it back to the orphanage. I went with "B" (Tutu's bro) to pick up the kids from school--so many familiar faces. I received lots of hugs and smiles.:) So I hung out with the kids until I left for my "new home" in Chiang Mai--the "mansion" that belongs to Allen and Claire, friends of Mike and Debbie. Allen and Claire own the house where the team from Virginia stayed when they were here. My room was amazing! I wish you could see this house--6 bedrooms, patios, 8? bathrooms, large kitchen, living room, open spaces, ponds, gardens--BEAUTIFUL! It was really nice of them to let me stay at their house. Another guy from Ohio (so many from O-H-I-O!) was also staying there; he had been doing some painting at the orphanage while he was in Chiang Mai visiting friends, etc. We all ate dinner (Thai version of beef stew) and played a couple rounds of Bingo with the two girls staying with Allen and Claire. The girls are hill tribe girls who live with Allen and Claire and they barely speak English. They asked a lot of questions about me and Jonathan, though, so we must have intrigued them!
Anyway, this is getting long, and there is so much to write about! Jonathan and I went to the orphanage early on Tuesday and stayed all day. We played with the kids (a large group was home from school because of a special program) and helped some of the kids write letters to their sponsors. We ate both lunch and dinner at the orphanage; lunch was fairly edible, dinner was interesting. There were cubes of congealed pork blood in the noodles. I'm sorry, but I say "No!" to eating animal blood in any form!!!
On Wednesday Claire, Allen, Jonathan and I headed into Chiang Mai for the day. After showing us the system for catching each taxi bus (one for Doi Soket, one for Chiang Mai), they left us to make it back on our own. We wandered about Chiang Mai, ate fruit shakes, ate at the Art Cafe (a Western restaurant--I tried an interesting interpretation of carrot cake--not like my mom's!), looked around some shops, and then got Thai foot massages! It was so fun and so relaxing (except for the sappy Boyz 2 Men music playing in the background!:) even though I don't like feet! I felt bad for the woman working on my feet--my feet are so dirty from wearing sandals; I don't know if they will ever be clean again! So! It was a good day; we headed back to Doi Soket hanging on the back of the taxi bus--what an adventure! More and more people wanted to get on, and there was NO ROOM! We contemplated heading up on the roof, but we were saved by Debbie and Mike (they used to live in Thailand as missionaries and have just moved back after 10 years in the States--they know Tutu, who is the director of the Thailand orphanage) who were driving by and asked us if we needed a ride! It was so funny! They said they couldn't help but notice my white skin and the fact that Jonathan was literally hanging off the back of the truck! I guess we stood out from a few miles away!
So! Back to the orphanage, the rest of the team was there . . . OH! I forgot to mention that the night before I left PP, I had my picture taken in the traditional Chinese/Thai and Indian costumes! It was so much fun!!! It was like playing dress up--the hair, makeup, costumes, etc. I had a great time. One of the girls, Seda, took me to her favorite place. The pictures were picked up by the team, so I was happy to see them and asked for the pictures as soon as I saw them! :) We then went out to dinner---good ole' Pizza Hut. Relief! Not a piece of congealed blood in sight!
Today was another early morning. While the rest of the team headed out to one of the hill tribe villages, Debbie took Jonathan and me to the Elephant Show! It was really cool; elephants are amazing animals, especially the ones that can paint pictures better than I could!:) I fulfilled a goal and had my picture taken while I was sitting on a baby elephant! He was so cute--a little Dumbo! :) Elephants are hairy little creatures--this one had lots of prickly hair! It was a fun time; I'm so grateful I was able to experience the elephant show before I left Thailand!
WHEW! I could write about so much more, but I am hungry and I think I will go and see what I could order for dinner. I'm staying at a guest house in Bangkok; I just wrote in my journal by the pool:) It's a nice night here in Bangkok . . . and I am so proud of myself for actually getting out the the airport! My flight leaves early tomorrow, so I should probably hit the sack early. I am so not looking forward to the long flight home, especially heading back to cold and now SNOW! We heard about the crazy snow on the news all the way here in Thailand! Dang, I miss everything! :)
Well, I'll probably post one last time when I get home, and then you can stick a fork in this baby because it's DONE! My time here has flown by, but I can't wait to come back!
Goodnight from Bangkok!
Susannah
"Oh, the wild joys of living!" (Robert Browning)
"For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream." (Van Gogh)
"O Solitude! if I must with thee dwell . . ." (John Keats)
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have summoned you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. "(Isaiah 43:1-2)
Sorry it's been awhile since I last posted; I've been busy and haven't had the opportunity to use the computer. Well, the last time I wrote I think I was leaving for Thailand . . . what an adventure! My flight to Bangkok was fine, no worries. My flight to Chiang Mai, however, was another story. My original flight was cancelled, and I was booked on a later flight. So now my flight is later than expected, and I'm not sure if there will be someone to pick me up at the airport. So I went through passport control, which took forever, and my heart started beating faster as I headed for the arrivals meeting section. I scanned the crowd for a familiar face, any familiar face. Nope, nothing. People are meeting friends and family members all around me, hugging, filming each joyous reunion, etc. etc. etc. and I just stand there, feeling quite alone in the world. So I decide to call Tutu; Dave had given me her number "just in case." Well, he forgot one digit in the number so not only did I have a heck of a time figuring out the phone, but I had to ask someone what the extra digit should be (they have 10 digits; he had forgotten the "8" that goes in the beginning of the number--don't ask me!?!)
So! I finally got a hold of Tutu, her brother had just left the airport for the second time. He had been waiting at the Domestic gate, but I had flown International from Phnom Penh, so we missed each other. Also, when Tutu and Debbie showed up and saw my flight was cancelled, they tried to ask to see if I was on the next flight, but they didn't know my last name so Thai Airways wouldn't give them any information!!!!! Crazy!!! It was a long day; I almost LOST IT at the airport, but I was able to calm myself down ("You're ok, you're ok, you're ok") and get on with figuring out what I was going to do if no one came to pick me up. So, long story long:), I finally made it back to the orphanage. I went with "B" (Tutu's bro) to pick up the kids from school--so many familiar faces. I received lots of hugs and smiles.:) So I hung out with the kids until I left for my "new home" in Chiang Mai--the "mansion" that belongs to Allen and Claire, friends of Mike and Debbie. Allen and Claire own the house where the team from Virginia stayed when they were here. My room was amazing! I wish you could see this house--6 bedrooms, patios, 8? bathrooms, large kitchen, living room, open spaces, ponds, gardens--BEAUTIFUL! It was really nice of them to let me stay at their house. Another guy from Ohio (so many from O-H-I-O!) was also staying there; he had been doing some painting at the orphanage while he was in Chiang Mai visiting friends, etc. We all ate dinner (Thai version of beef stew) and played a couple rounds of Bingo with the two girls staying with Allen and Claire. The girls are hill tribe girls who live with Allen and Claire and they barely speak English. They asked a lot of questions about me and Jonathan, though, so we must have intrigued them!
Anyway, this is getting long, and there is so much to write about! Jonathan and I went to the orphanage early on Tuesday and stayed all day. We played with the kids (a large group was home from school because of a special program) and helped some of the kids write letters to their sponsors. We ate both lunch and dinner at the orphanage; lunch was fairly edible, dinner was interesting. There were cubes of congealed pork blood in the noodles. I'm sorry, but I say "No!" to eating animal blood in any form!!!
On Wednesday Claire, Allen, Jonathan and I headed into Chiang Mai for the day. After showing us the system for catching each taxi bus (one for Doi Soket, one for Chiang Mai), they left us to make it back on our own. We wandered about Chiang Mai, ate fruit shakes, ate at the Art Cafe (a Western restaurant--I tried an interesting interpretation of carrot cake--not like my mom's!), looked around some shops, and then got Thai foot massages! It was so fun and so relaxing (except for the sappy Boyz 2 Men music playing in the background!:) even though I don't like feet! I felt bad for the woman working on my feet--my feet are so dirty from wearing sandals; I don't know if they will ever be clean again! So! It was a good day; we headed back to Doi Soket hanging on the back of the taxi bus--what an adventure! More and more people wanted to get on, and there was NO ROOM! We contemplated heading up on the roof, but we were saved by Debbie and Mike (they used to live in Thailand as missionaries and have just moved back after 10 years in the States--they know Tutu, who is the director of the Thailand orphanage) who were driving by and asked us if we needed a ride! It was so funny! They said they couldn't help but notice my white skin and the fact that Jonathan was literally hanging off the back of the truck! I guess we stood out from a few miles away!
So! Back to the orphanage, the rest of the team was there . . . OH! I forgot to mention that the night before I left PP, I had my picture taken in the traditional Chinese/Thai and Indian costumes! It was so much fun!!! It was like playing dress up--the hair, makeup, costumes, etc. I had a great time. One of the girls, Seda, took me to her favorite place. The pictures were picked up by the team, so I was happy to see them and asked for the pictures as soon as I saw them! :) We then went out to dinner---good ole' Pizza Hut. Relief! Not a piece of congealed blood in sight!
Today was another early morning. While the rest of the team headed out to one of the hill tribe villages, Debbie took Jonathan and me to the Elephant Show! It was really cool; elephants are amazing animals, especially the ones that can paint pictures better than I could!:) I fulfilled a goal and had my picture taken while I was sitting on a baby elephant! He was so cute--a little Dumbo! :) Elephants are hairy little creatures--this one had lots of prickly hair! It was a fun time; I'm so grateful I was able to experience the elephant show before I left Thailand!
WHEW! I could write about so much more, but I am hungry and I think I will go and see what I could order for dinner. I'm staying at a guest house in Bangkok; I just wrote in my journal by the pool:) It's a nice night here in Bangkok . . . and I am so proud of myself for actually getting out the the airport! My flight leaves early tomorrow, so I should probably hit the sack early. I am so not looking forward to the long flight home, especially heading back to cold and now SNOW! We heard about the crazy snow on the news all the way here in Thailand! Dang, I miss everything! :)
Well, I'll probably post one last time when I get home, and then you can stick a fork in this baby because it's DONE! My time here has flown by, but I can't wait to come back!
Goodnight from Bangkok!
Susannah
"Oh, the wild joys of living!" (Robert Browning)
"For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream." (Van Gogh)
"O Solitude! if I must with thee dwell . . ." (John Keats)
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have summoned you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. "(Isaiah 43:1-2)
Saturday, February 10, 2007
# 70132 I love Croissants!
Hello all!
Wow, I'm exhausted! I've been staying up late and getting up early, and today I feel like I need to sleep for a week! Anyway, it's been crazy busy. I visited the school on Friday and taught English to the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades. They were so well-behaved and anxious to learn! One of the directors of the school took me to lunch; it was traditional Khmer place, but I did try the noodles (with soy sauce, of course!:) and it was good. She did give me a "job pitch" for me to come and work at the school because they really need foreign teachers; I told her I would pray that more foreign teachers come to Cambodia! :) Anyway, after the school I went with Amy to the market, and then I headed back to the school for English class with the first graders. It was difficult to leave them; I got many hugs when I left! I'll never forget their faces.
After dinner, we went to hang out at the student center. I love just sitting at the student center and talking with the students! It reminds me of my college days of just hanging out in the hallway and just talking for hours. We also listened to music--I had bought a couple of CDs at the market; some Norah Jones, Josh Groban, Michael Buble, etc. I think Strey-Mou and I listened to "Home" by Michael Buble at least 7 times! She loves to sing, so it was really fun--especially since she was trying to follow along with the English lyrics. Good times!
On Saturday we woke up super early and headed out to one of the southern provinces. It was a very bumpy ride! It took about 2 hours to get there, and when we arrived, people were already gathered, waiting for medical treatment. It was really cool for our team to be there--it was a good feeling to be helping them! Our team consisted of one doctor, six nurses, the leader, and then me-- and Amy, our faithful translator.:) What was my job, you ask? Good question! Seeing as I don't have any medical training, they made me the pharmacist! :) Amy and I worked in the little room they had all the drugs in and when people came in with their prescriptions, we gave them the drugs and explained dosages, etc. It was quite the experience--I got a crash course in meds! By the end of our time there, I was quite proficient at figuring out what the people needed . . . I only hope I didn't kill anyone! It was fairly frustrating at times, mainly because of having to translate and hoping that nothing was lost in the translation! There were so many new babies in the village--and the mothers had them all dressed in very warm clothing--winter hats and sweaters, etc. It's so strange--what we consider warm/hot (80's) they consider is their "cold" season! I couldn't help but think, "Well, your baby probably wouldn't have a fever if you took off the wool hat and sweater!!!!!" :) It was quite the experience!
Saturday night was our student outreach. To attend, all of the students must bring a non-Christian friend with them. They have a program and share the Gospel, and then they eat--free food, buffet style! It was really great--so many students! It was held at a restaurant in a hotel, so we had one of the rooms in the back. The waitresses kept bringing out more and more food--fish on fire, fish soup, octopus (nope, I didn't attempt it!), vegetables, etc. etc. etc.--and of course, RICE! I got brave and tried an onion--it was sooooooooo HOT!!!! My lips and mouth went numb!!!!!!!!!!!!! After that, I was more cautious--only rice and soy sauce for me, thanks!:) I met some really great students/professionals. It was a good night. After the program, Pheakey, Amy, and Pheakey's husband, Kasol, kidnapped me and took me to the Lucky Mart for dessert. Of course, I had to ride side-saddle on the moto because I was wearing a skirt. IT WAS SO SCARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I almost fell off! But I survived . . . and I vow never again to ride side-saddle on a moto!
Today was church, then we took a tuk-tuk (no motos!:) back to the guest house . . . another team member showed up, and another member is leaving, so it's been a busy morning of meeting new people and saying good-bye! I leave for Thailand tomorrow--I am excited to be going back to Chiang Mai, but I am sad to be leaving Cambodia. At first, I didn't know if I would like it here, but now that I've been here awhile, I've found out that I really do like it. I hope and pray to come back someday!
Anyway, we are headed to the state-run orphanage this afternoon, then hanging out with the students, going out to dinner, and then saying good-bye. The rest of the team is joining me on Wednesday, so that will be fun. I can't wait to see some of my little friends in Thailand:)
Well, dear friends and family, I must be going! I will write more when I am back in Thailand.
Susannah
"Were there no God we would be in this glorious world with grateful hearts and no one to thank." (Christina Rossetti)
"We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same." (Anne Frank)
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matt. 7:13-14)
P.S. Joel, congrats on the J-O-B! Don't crash my little silver lining!!!!
P.P.S. The title is in reference to the scanning code at the Lucky Mart--I've bought so many croissants (the French left this place with some GREAT bread!) so I memorized the scanning code--Yes, I am weird, I know!:)
Wow, I'm exhausted! I've been staying up late and getting up early, and today I feel like I need to sleep for a week! Anyway, it's been crazy busy. I visited the school on Friday and taught English to the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades. They were so well-behaved and anxious to learn! One of the directors of the school took me to lunch; it was traditional Khmer place, but I did try the noodles (with soy sauce, of course!:) and it was good. She did give me a "job pitch" for me to come and work at the school because they really need foreign teachers; I told her I would pray that more foreign teachers come to Cambodia! :) Anyway, after the school I went with Amy to the market, and then I headed back to the school for English class with the first graders. It was difficult to leave them; I got many hugs when I left! I'll never forget their faces.
After dinner, we went to hang out at the student center. I love just sitting at the student center and talking with the students! It reminds me of my college days of just hanging out in the hallway and just talking for hours. We also listened to music--I had bought a couple of CDs at the market; some Norah Jones, Josh Groban, Michael Buble, etc. I think Strey-Mou and I listened to "Home" by Michael Buble at least 7 times! She loves to sing, so it was really fun--especially since she was trying to follow along with the English lyrics. Good times!
On Saturday we woke up super early and headed out to one of the southern provinces. It was a very bumpy ride! It took about 2 hours to get there, and when we arrived, people were already gathered, waiting for medical treatment. It was really cool for our team to be there--it was a good feeling to be helping them! Our team consisted of one doctor, six nurses, the leader, and then me-- and Amy, our faithful translator.:) What was my job, you ask? Good question! Seeing as I don't have any medical training, they made me the pharmacist! :) Amy and I worked in the little room they had all the drugs in and when people came in with their prescriptions, we gave them the drugs and explained dosages, etc. It was quite the experience--I got a crash course in meds! By the end of our time there, I was quite proficient at figuring out what the people needed . . . I only hope I didn't kill anyone! It was fairly frustrating at times, mainly because of having to translate and hoping that nothing was lost in the translation! There were so many new babies in the village--and the mothers had them all dressed in very warm clothing--winter hats and sweaters, etc. It's so strange--what we consider warm/hot (80's) they consider is their "cold" season! I couldn't help but think, "Well, your baby probably wouldn't have a fever if you took off the wool hat and sweater!!!!!" :) It was quite the experience!
Saturday night was our student outreach. To attend, all of the students must bring a non-Christian friend with them. They have a program and share the Gospel, and then they eat--free food, buffet style! It was really great--so many students! It was held at a restaurant in a hotel, so we had one of the rooms in the back. The waitresses kept bringing out more and more food--fish on fire, fish soup, octopus (nope, I didn't attempt it!), vegetables, etc. etc. etc.--and of course, RICE! I got brave and tried an onion--it was sooooooooo HOT!!!! My lips and mouth went numb!!!!!!!!!!!!! After that, I was more cautious--only rice and soy sauce for me, thanks!:) I met some really great students/professionals. It was a good night. After the program, Pheakey, Amy, and Pheakey's husband, Kasol, kidnapped me and took me to the Lucky Mart for dessert. Of course, I had to ride side-saddle on the moto because I was wearing a skirt. IT WAS SO SCARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I almost fell off! But I survived . . . and I vow never again to ride side-saddle on a moto!
Today was church, then we took a tuk-tuk (no motos!:) back to the guest house . . . another team member showed up, and another member is leaving, so it's been a busy morning of meeting new people and saying good-bye! I leave for Thailand tomorrow--I am excited to be going back to Chiang Mai, but I am sad to be leaving Cambodia. At first, I didn't know if I would like it here, but now that I've been here awhile, I've found out that I really do like it. I hope and pray to come back someday!
Anyway, we are headed to the state-run orphanage this afternoon, then hanging out with the students, going out to dinner, and then saying good-bye. The rest of the team is joining me on Wednesday, so that will be fun. I can't wait to see some of my little friends in Thailand:)
Well, dear friends and family, I must be going! I will write more when I am back in Thailand.
Susannah
"Were there no God we would be in this glorious world with grateful hearts and no one to thank." (Christina Rossetti)
"We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same." (Anne Frank)
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matt. 7:13-14)
P.S. Joel, congrats on the J-O-B! Don't crash my little silver lining!!!!
P.P.S. The title is in reference to the scanning code at the Lucky Mart--I've bought so many croissants (the French left this place with some GREAT bread!) so I memorized the scanning code--Yes, I am weird, I know!:)
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Lost in a Sea of Brown Eyes
Hello!
Whew, it's Thursday already and my week has flown by! So many new and different experiences . . . On Tuesday night a couple of the girls took me to the Stadium to"exercise" . . . WOW. It's crazy! All of these Khmer people flock to the stadium after work and pay 500 Riel (12 cents, I think) to work out in these large groups. It's exercise classes outside, with instructors and everything. There are so many people just hanging out, eating (food vendors abound!), and exercising. It was so much fun--a combination of jazzercise, Tao-Bo, aerobics--and then traditional Khmer dancing and a form of Cambodian line dancing. WAY FUN! Of course, I didn't stick out AT ALL:) If you know me, you know just how absolutely UNCOORDINATED I am, especially with any type of follow-along aerobics! (Right, Al?:) You definitely cannot be self-conscious in this culture if you aren't Cambodian--you will be stared at! They just stare at my eyes . . . and I just drown in a sea of beautiful brown eyes. :)
Anyway, I don't even know what else to write about--so much! I love all of the students at the center so much. One girl, Strey-Mou (spelling, who knows?:) is so much fun . . . She told me, "I like you big-big (a lot)!" They just warmed their way into my heart--I will miss them a lot.
Last night the students cooked dinner for a couple of us on the team. It was traditional Khmer (pronounced "Ka-my") food . . . HOT! I couldn't even stand what they considered "mild" sauce. It was vegetables, rice, cooked fish, lots of hot sauces, etc. Then fresh pineapple (SO GOOD) and watermelon. It was a fun meal. Of course, what made it somewhat ironic was that we were listening to Nirvana, James Taylor, and Bob Dylan as we ate (one of the guys brought his laptop) so it was very bizarre to be listening to "Carolina On My Mind"in a student center in Phenom Penh, Cambodia!!!!!!! It was a great time of fellowship and learning from each other. I love to just sit and talk with the students; we have really clicked, despite the language barriers. It's weird, because even though I can't speak a word of Khmer (ok, I've learned two words--flower and tiger--don't ask!:), I really pick up on the gist of the conversation based on inflection, tone, and body language. Of course, I am constantly saying, "What'd she say?" and making them translate, especially when I know they are talking about me! :)
I've been to the Christian School all week; I've been helping Amy teach her English class there, too. She has the grade 1 class--adorable kids! Typical first graders--lots of energy, jumping around, etc. It's been so fun! I've also been reading stories to the kids--they are so eager to read and speak English! I love the culture here--students really respect their teachers--they all stand up and give the traditional greeting when they enter or leave the classroom. "Good-bye, Teacher. Thank you for teaching us. See you tomorrow." So sweet. There are a few kids I want to take home with me! :)
It's been really great hanging out with the students and joining their world. Today I went and got a manicure and a pedicure (and probably a fungus!:) at a local salon (by "salon" I mean open air, out on the dirty/dusty street. It made me a little nervous, but I couldn't not go with the girls. It was a strange experience--I had to put my hands and feet in what looked like dog bowls filled with water from who knows where or what's in it! Here's the kicker--it cost $1.50, and I even got some cool designs on my thumbs and toes! CRAZY! Some of the guys here have really nicely manicured hands . . I asked Amy if they got manicures and she just laughed. She explained that in the Khmer culture, the men rarely cook or wash dishes, etc. so their hands look nice. It was a funny conversation, that's for sure.
The other night we were trying (unsuccessfully, I might add) to explain "Air Quotes" to the students--hilarious!!!!!!! I have never laughed so hard in my life! I have been teaching the students many new (and useful, of course) phrases, including, but not limited to: "You're being a brat/"Stop being a brat"; "Don't boss me around"/"Quit bossing me around!"; "Keep it on the DL"; "Get over it"/"Deal with it" . . . So fun! I about DIED when one of the girls told me, "Save your drama for your Mama!"--I don't know where she learned that, but it was hysterical!:)
I have to be leaving the cafe, so I have to wrap this one up!
Oh, the bugs! Let me just tell you, yuck. Big huge crazy bugs. Enough said!
I will write more soon. On Saturday we head out to one of the provinces for a medical outreach. I'm anxious to see some of this beautiful country!
I love you and miss you all! Thanks for the prayers and e-mails!
Sorry it's cold there--it's like 85 degrees every day:) Don't be jealous--you could have come if you wanted to!:)
Susannah
"What is it that you express in your eyes? It seems to me more than all the words I have read in my life." (Walt Whitman)
"There is no remedy for love but to love more." (Henry David Thoreau)
" . . . And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."(Micah 6:8)
PS. Thanks for the jokes, Al:)
Whew, it's Thursday already and my week has flown by! So many new and different experiences . . . On Tuesday night a couple of the girls took me to the Stadium to"exercise" . . . WOW. It's crazy! All of these Khmer people flock to the stadium after work and pay 500 Riel (12 cents, I think) to work out in these large groups. It's exercise classes outside, with instructors and everything. There are so many people just hanging out, eating (food vendors abound!), and exercising. It was so much fun--a combination of jazzercise, Tao-Bo, aerobics--and then traditional Khmer dancing and a form of Cambodian line dancing. WAY FUN! Of course, I didn't stick out AT ALL:) If you know me, you know just how absolutely UNCOORDINATED I am, especially with any type of follow-along aerobics! (Right, Al?:) You definitely cannot be self-conscious in this culture if you aren't Cambodian--you will be stared at! They just stare at my eyes . . . and I just drown in a sea of beautiful brown eyes. :)
Anyway, I don't even know what else to write about--so much! I love all of the students at the center so much. One girl, Strey-Mou (spelling, who knows?:) is so much fun . . . She told me, "I like you big-big (a lot)!" They just warmed their way into my heart--I will miss them a lot.
Last night the students cooked dinner for a couple of us on the team. It was traditional Khmer (pronounced "Ka-my") food . . . HOT! I couldn't even stand what they considered "mild" sauce. It was vegetables, rice, cooked fish, lots of hot sauces, etc. Then fresh pineapple (SO GOOD) and watermelon. It was a fun meal. Of course, what made it somewhat ironic was that we were listening to Nirvana, James Taylor, and Bob Dylan as we ate (one of the guys brought his laptop) so it was very bizarre to be listening to "Carolina On My Mind"in a student center in Phenom Penh, Cambodia!!!!!!! It was a great time of fellowship and learning from each other. I love to just sit and talk with the students; we have really clicked, despite the language barriers. It's weird, because even though I can't speak a word of Khmer (ok, I've learned two words--flower and tiger--don't ask!:), I really pick up on the gist of the conversation based on inflection, tone, and body language. Of course, I am constantly saying, "What'd she say?" and making them translate, especially when I know they are talking about me! :)
I've been to the Christian School all week; I've been helping Amy teach her English class there, too. She has the grade 1 class--adorable kids! Typical first graders--lots of energy, jumping around, etc. It's been so fun! I've also been reading stories to the kids--they are so eager to read and speak English! I love the culture here--students really respect their teachers--they all stand up and give the traditional greeting when they enter or leave the classroom. "Good-bye, Teacher. Thank you for teaching us. See you tomorrow." So sweet. There are a few kids I want to take home with me! :)
It's been really great hanging out with the students and joining their world. Today I went and got a manicure and a pedicure (and probably a fungus!:) at a local salon (by "salon" I mean open air, out on the dirty/dusty street. It made me a little nervous, but I couldn't not go with the girls. It was a strange experience--I had to put my hands and feet in what looked like dog bowls filled with water from who knows where or what's in it! Here's the kicker--it cost $1.50, and I even got some cool designs on my thumbs and toes! CRAZY! Some of the guys here have really nicely manicured hands . . I asked Amy if they got manicures and she just laughed. She explained that in the Khmer culture, the men rarely cook or wash dishes, etc. so their hands look nice. It was a funny conversation, that's for sure.
The other night we were trying (unsuccessfully, I might add) to explain "Air Quotes" to the students--hilarious!!!!!!! I have never laughed so hard in my life! I have been teaching the students many new (and useful, of course) phrases, including, but not limited to: "You're being a brat/"Stop being a brat"; "Don't boss me around"/"Quit bossing me around!"; "Keep it on the DL"; "Get over it"/"Deal with it" . . . So fun! I about DIED when one of the girls told me, "Save your drama for your Mama!"--I don't know where she learned that, but it was hysterical!:)
I have to be leaving the cafe, so I have to wrap this one up!
Oh, the bugs! Let me just tell you, yuck. Big huge crazy bugs. Enough said!
I will write more soon. On Saturday we head out to one of the provinces for a medical outreach. I'm anxious to see some of this beautiful country!
I love you and miss you all! Thanks for the prayers and e-mails!
Sorry it's cold there--it's like 85 degrees every day:) Don't be jealous--you could have come if you wanted to!:)
Susannah
"What is it that you express in your eyes? It seems to me more than all the words I have read in my life." (Walt Whitman)
"There is no remedy for love but to love more." (Henry David Thoreau)
" . . . And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."(Micah 6:8)
PS. Thanks for the jokes, Al:)
Monday, February 5, 2007
Superbowl? What's that?
Hello friends and family!
Thanks to all who are faithfully reading about my travels! I enjoy your comments:) It is so nice to hear from home. I am doing fine . . . my cough/cold is slowly going away. It's been a busy couple of days! We finally made it to the orphan home on Saturday morning--they were so happy to see us and play with us. They are so content with the little they have (toys, etc.) and they just play and play with the same toys; unlike many American children who discard their toys in seconds for any new and interesting gadget! Saturday night I also went with Amy to another orphan home to teach English! It was exhausting but fun. I had a heck of a time explaining that a drugstore was NOT a place to buy the "bad"drugs! I also struggled with explaining a drinking fountain . . . it was a new concept to many of those kids. I hope to go back next week, if I have the time.
On Saturday night I was up late doing one of the girl's hair and teaching them how to apply makeup--I know, I know, not exactly under the agenda for a "missions trip," (and not that I am an expert!:) but it was necessary to them! Not that they have any makeup to wear (it's expensive here) and the stuff they do have is cheap/the wrong color. Remember how I said they want to look white? Well, their foundation is definitely for a very pale white person (like me!) SCARY! It was really fun, though. The girls are so sweet.
Church was on Sunday . . . Dave spoke and sang. It was good, but it is so tiring to listen to two different languages; I zoned in and out at points. It's kinda funny--I've gotten good at ignoring the conversations around me because they aren't in English! Unfortunately, my brain doesn't register Khmer! I am trying to learn, but Thai seems easier to me!
Today is Monday, and I got up early and headed to the Christian School run by Asia's Hope. SO MUCH FUN! I read 3 different stories to the pre-k, kindergartners, and the 1st graders! The kids were so cute and very excited. "Hello Teacher!"they all called to me (the kids from the orphan home attend the school, so there were many familiar faces:) and when I left they all yelled, "Thank you, Teacher!"I am losing my voice from so much "talking English" but that was totally worth it! I am going back tomorrow, too!
Well, I must be going. Who knows what I'll be doing tonight, but the girls promised going to exercise (traditional dancing, from what I understand) for around 10 cents at the Stadium. Sounds interesting, for sure!
I miss you! Home seems very far away from this world! Cambodia gets under your skin, though:) It's the people here--they make you want to be here. I've met some pretty amazing people! God is here working in Cambodia! It's exciting to be a part of the action!
I will write more soon!!!
Susannah
"Not knowing when the dawn will come, I open every door."(good ole' Emily Dickinson)
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations . . ."(Matthew 28:19a)
ps.--Cheryl, remember the end of verse 20? We made up a song . . .:)
pps.--You all beat me on Rabbits! And I even had a 12 hour lead!:)
Thanks to all who are faithfully reading about my travels! I enjoy your comments:) It is so nice to hear from home. I am doing fine . . . my cough/cold is slowly going away. It's been a busy couple of days! We finally made it to the orphan home on Saturday morning--they were so happy to see us and play with us. They are so content with the little they have (toys, etc.) and they just play and play with the same toys; unlike many American children who discard their toys in seconds for any new and interesting gadget! Saturday night I also went with Amy to another orphan home to teach English! It was exhausting but fun. I had a heck of a time explaining that a drugstore was NOT a place to buy the "bad"drugs! I also struggled with explaining a drinking fountain . . . it was a new concept to many of those kids. I hope to go back next week, if I have the time.
On Saturday night I was up late doing one of the girl's hair and teaching them how to apply makeup--I know, I know, not exactly under the agenda for a "missions trip," (and not that I am an expert!:) but it was necessary to them! Not that they have any makeup to wear (it's expensive here) and the stuff they do have is cheap/the wrong color. Remember how I said they want to look white? Well, their foundation is definitely for a very pale white person (like me!) SCARY! It was really fun, though. The girls are so sweet.
Church was on Sunday . . . Dave spoke and sang. It was good, but it is so tiring to listen to two different languages; I zoned in and out at points. It's kinda funny--I've gotten good at ignoring the conversations around me because they aren't in English! Unfortunately, my brain doesn't register Khmer! I am trying to learn, but Thai seems easier to me!
Today is Monday, and I got up early and headed to the Christian School run by Asia's Hope. SO MUCH FUN! I read 3 different stories to the pre-k, kindergartners, and the 1st graders! The kids were so cute and very excited. "Hello Teacher!"they all called to me (the kids from the orphan home attend the school, so there were many familiar faces:) and when I left they all yelled, "Thank you, Teacher!"I am losing my voice from so much "talking English" but that was totally worth it! I am going back tomorrow, too!
Well, I must be going. Who knows what I'll be doing tonight, but the girls promised going to exercise (traditional dancing, from what I understand) for around 10 cents at the Stadium. Sounds interesting, for sure!
I miss you! Home seems very far away from this world! Cambodia gets under your skin, though:) It's the people here--they make you want to be here. I've met some pretty amazing people! God is here working in Cambodia! It's exciting to be a part of the action!
I will write more soon!!!
Susannah
"Not knowing when the dawn will come, I open every door."(good ole' Emily Dickinson)
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations . . ."(Matthew 28:19a)
ps.--Cheryl, remember the end of verse 20? We made up a song . . .:)
pps.--You all beat me on Rabbits! And I even had a 12 hour lead!:)
Friday, February 2, 2007
"Love the girl who holds the world in a paper cup . . . drink it up!"
Hello all!
Thought I would title this post after my favorite James Taylor song:) Anyway, here I am, sitting in an Internet cafe in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. WOW. This city is crazy---smelly, dirty, crowded . . . and yet, it has a charm all its own! We arrived around 8 pm on Thursday night, and let me tell you, going through the visa/border control was absolutely terrifying. All they want is your 20 bucks, but the process is so serious and there are so many uniformed men standing around. VERY SCARY, especially for me, seeing as this was my first time visiting Cambodia! But I made it; no problems.
The group that met us at the airport was so fun! A group of students came to meet us at the airport--they were so sweet. The girls kept touching my arms and holding my hands--they were excited to meet me! I am actually staying at the student center while I am here. I would stay in the guest house (very nice, air conditioned, hot showers) but what would be the fun in that? I feel like I'm back in college! My roommate is Amy (not her real name, but apparently her name is too long and too hard to pronounce so she goes by Amy!) and she is so sweet! She is 22 and studying at the local university. All of the students there are so welcoming and gracious! Of course, I have to sleep on a hard mat and take very cold showers every morning, but it's totally worth it.
Today I toured the city with Amy and Pheakdey ("Peck-day"). We had so much fun! Pheakdey works for Asia's Hope (she's the accountant) but she also used to live in the student center before she got married about 2 months ago. She speaks very good English, so it was nice to have my very own translator! We first went to Cambodia Genocide Museum---soooooooooo sad. It used to be a school until the Khmer Rouge turned it into a torture camp in the late 60's and 70's. It was honestly the most sickening thing to see the torture devices, the photos of the victims, etc. I felt very ill. It was so sobering. Of the 20,000 or so people who were taken to the prison, only 7! survived. The place had the feeling of pure evil. I shiver just thinking about it.
After the museum, we had lunch at local restaurant; I still felt ill so I just had fruit. I haven't been very hungry lately, mostly because I have a bad cough and cold (I caught it at the orphanage:) so yeah, I've been fairly miserable. We then went to a local market--Pheakdeyt loves to shop! They had so many second-hand purses, shoes, etc. Pheakdey was good to take--she really bargained hard for me! I bought a purse for 3 bucks--the lady sold it to me cheap because I was pretty! :) OH! We had to take a moto scooter to the museum--I thought I was going to DIE! Lanes, traffic lights, stop signs--these are all merely suggestions around here. Traffic is very very crazy! I actually took another moto to this cafe---still scary! I'm surprised there aren't more accidents!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Anyway, after the market, we went to the local "mall"--it reminded me of the mall in Thailand----Western clothes, accessories, etc. There were many little stalls selling all sorts of stuff. We just "window-shopped" (I taught the girls this phrase:) and looked around! It's so strange--a very different world. I feels weird being in the minority--there are not a lot of foreigners around here--I definitely am very stared at!
Well, friends and family, another team member arrived today and he is waiting for me to finish, so I best be signing off for the moment! There is Bible study tonight at the student center, so I'm excited for that. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers!
~Susannah
PS. If I don't get to use the Internet before the 4th, Happy Birthday to my Grandma and Bonnie!!!! I love you and miss you!
"I believe in the sun even though it doesn't shine, I believe in love even when it isn't shown, I believe in God even when he doesn't speak." (Author Unknown)
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting LIFE." (John 3:16)
Thought I would title this post after my favorite James Taylor song:) Anyway, here I am, sitting in an Internet cafe in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. WOW. This city is crazy---smelly, dirty, crowded . . . and yet, it has a charm all its own! We arrived around 8 pm on Thursday night, and let me tell you, going through the visa/border control was absolutely terrifying. All they want is your 20 bucks, but the process is so serious and there are so many uniformed men standing around. VERY SCARY, especially for me, seeing as this was my first time visiting Cambodia! But I made it; no problems.
The group that met us at the airport was so fun! A group of students came to meet us at the airport--they were so sweet. The girls kept touching my arms and holding my hands--they were excited to meet me! I am actually staying at the student center while I am here. I would stay in the guest house (very nice, air conditioned, hot showers) but what would be the fun in that? I feel like I'm back in college! My roommate is Amy (not her real name, but apparently her name is too long and too hard to pronounce so she goes by Amy!) and she is so sweet! She is 22 and studying at the local university. All of the students there are so welcoming and gracious! Of course, I have to sleep on a hard mat and take very cold showers every morning, but it's totally worth it.
Today I toured the city with Amy and Pheakdey ("Peck-day"). We had so much fun! Pheakdey works for Asia's Hope (she's the accountant) but she also used to live in the student center before she got married about 2 months ago. She speaks very good English, so it was nice to have my very own translator! We first went to Cambodia Genocide Museum---soooooooooo sad. It used to be a school until the Khmer Rouge turned it into a torture camp in the late 60's and 70's. It was honestly the most sickening thing to see the torture devices, the photos of the victims, etc. I felt very ill. It was so sobering. Of the 20,000 or so people who were taken to the prison, only 7! survived. The place had the feeling of pure evil. I shiver just thinking about it.
After the museum, we had lunch at local restaurant; I still felt ill so I just had fruit. I haven't been very hungry lately, mostly because I have a bad cough and cold (I caught it at the orphanage:) so yeah, I've been fairly miserable. We then went to a local market--Pheakdeyt loves to shop! They had so many second-hand purses, shoes, etc. Pheakdey was good to take--she really bargained hard for me! I bought a purse for 3 bucks--the lady sold it to me cheap because I was pretty! :) OH! We had to take a moto scooter to the museum--I thought I was going to DIE! Lanes, traffic lights, stop signs--these are all merely suggestions around here. Traffic is very very crazy! I actually took another moto to this cafe---still scary! I'm surprised there aren't more accidents!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Anyway, after the market, we went to the local "mall"--it reminded me of the mall in Thailand----Western clothes, accessories, etc. There were many little stalls selling all sorts of stuff. We just "window-shopped" (I taught the girls this phrase:) and looked around! It's so strange--a very different world. I feels weird being in the minority--there are not a lot of foreigners around here--I definitely am very stared at!
Well, friends and family, another team member arrived today and he is waiting for me to finish, so I best be signing off for the moment! There is Bible study tonight at the student center, so I'm excited for that. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers!
~Susannah
PS. If I don't get to use the Internet before the 4th, Happy Birthday to my Grandma and Bonnie!!!! I love you and miss you!
"I believe in the sun even though it doesn't shine, I believe in love even when it isn't shown, I believe in God even when he doesn't speak." (Author Unknown)
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting LIFE." (John 3:16)
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Twelve Sleeping Alligators
Hello!
It's about 9 am and I am up, showered, and packing. I leave for Cambodia today. I am sad to be leaving, but excited to see the orphanage and student center in Phenom Phen. More cute kids!
Yesterday was a very long day. The Chiang Mai Zoo was really cool except for the uphill walking, steps, ramps, etc. The zoo is on the mountain, so we all trekked around for about 4 hours.; at least it wasn't the hottest part of the day. There weren't a lot of people there--we were pretty much the only "farangs or foreigners. The zoo needed a better map and signs in English, though--we sorta got lost and had to guess where we were. It only cost 100 baht to get in--under 3 bucks! Also, it was another 100 baht to see the pandas. I didn't spend the money; I've seen pandas before--and I'm poor!
We saw some pretty crazy animals. "What is that thing?!?" was a common expression:) Of course, there were a lot of animals we recognized; the security/protection at the zoo was unreal, meaning, of course, that there really wasn't a lot of fences, gates, etc. If you were motivated enough, you could definitely reach in and touch some of the animals! It was kinda scary. I almost touched the baby elephant! Also, there were twelve sleeping alligators; we threw money at them and tried to make them move. They were huge! You wouldn't have wanted to fall into that pit! (But you could have easily jumped right in if you wanted to live out your Crocodile Hunter fantasies!:) Anyway, it was a really fun day! Definitely a different experience than the zoos in the States!
After the zoo, we all piled into a taxi and headed to the local department store, Central, for lunch. There were lots of Western stores, restaurants, and clothing places. A group of us ate at Pizza Hut--YUM!!!!!! It was really good. We then had time to look around the mall--nothing much. Apparently, this is where the locals shop to look like Westerners. There were so many people there, too. It was nice to walk around by myself for awhile and just wander. :)
We then headed back to the orphanage. Same typical schedule--play with the kids, have worship time, etc. There is this one little boy, probably about 2 years old, who hung on me all night. He is sick with a bad cough and cold, so I just held him during worship time. He is so cute; his name is Lak (spelling? who knows!). I will miss him! I got a couple of pictures with him, though!
After the kids were back in their bamboo huts working on their homework and getting ready for bed, Rachel and I headed to the Night Market. Dave drove us into town and dropped us off--we had about an hour and a half! It was much less crowded the second time; we actually knew what we were doing! We both purchased a few things--I got very good at bargaining:) It was fun! Chiang Mai is a really great city; I hope to come back here one day! Especially to see the new orphanage!!!!! I just want the kids out of the huts and into "real" buildings. Of course, they don't know the difference, but it's hard to see how they live.
Anyway, that's all for the moment. I don't know what the situation for Internet is in Cambodia, so I'll try to post when possible. Thailand is like living in luxury compared to Cambodia, or so I hear. It should be very interesting and filled with all kinds of new experiences!
~Susannah
"Life is what we make it. Always has been, always will be." (Grandma Moses)
"He must become greater, I must become less." (John 3:30)
It's about 9 am and I am up, showered, and packing. I leave for Cambodia today. I am sad to be leaving, but excited to see the orphanage and student center in Phenom Phen. More cute kids!
Yesterday was a very long day. The Chiang Mai Zoo was really cool except for the uphill walking, steps, ramps, etc. The zoo is on the mountain, so we all trekked around for about 4 hours.; at least it wasn't the hottest part of the day. There weren't a lot of people there--we were pretty much the only "farangs or foreigners. The zoo needed a better map and signs in English, though--we sorta got lost and had to guess where we were. It only cost 100 baht to get in--under 3 bucks! Also, it was another 100 baht to see the pandas. I didn't spend the money; I've seen pandas before--and I'm poor!
We saw some pretty crazy animals. "What is that thing?!?" was a common expression:) Of course, there were a lot of animals we recognized; the security/protection at the zoo was unreal, meaning, of course, that there really wasn't a lot of fences, gates, etc. If you were motivated enough, you could definitely reach in and touch some of the animals! It was kinda scary. I almost touched the baby elephant! Also, there were twelve sleeping alligators; we threw money at them and tried to make them move. They were huge! You wouldn't have wanted to fall into that pit! (But you could have easily jumped right in if you wanted to live out your Crocodile Hunter fantasies!:) Anyway, it was a really fun day! Definitely a different experience than the zoos in the States!
After the zoo, we all piled into a taxi and headed to the local department store, Central, for lunch. There were lots of Western stores, restaurants, and clothing places. A group of us ate at Pizza Hut--YUM!!!!!! It was really good. We then had time to look around the mall--nothing much. Apparently, this is where the locals shop to look like Westerners. There were so many people there, too. It was nice to walk around by myself for awhile and just wander. :)
We then headed back to the orphanage. Same typical schedule--play with the kids, have worship time, etc. There is this one little boy, probably about 2 years old, who hung on me all night. He is sick with a bad cough and cold, so I just held him during worship time. He is so cute; his name is Lak (spelling? who knows!). I will miss him! I got a couple of pictures with him, though!
After the kids were back in their bamboo huts working on their homework and getting ready for bed, Rachel and I headed to the Night Market. Dave drove us into town and dropped us off--we had about an hour and a half! It was much less crowded the second time; we actually knew what we were doing! We both purchased a few things--I got very good at bargaining:) It was fun! Chiang Mai is a really great city; I hope to come back here one day! Especially to see the new orphanage!!!!! I just want the kids out of the huts and into "real" buildings. Of course, they don't know the difference, but it's hard to see how they live.
Anyway, that's all for the moment. I don't know what the situation for Internet is in Cambodia, so I'll try to post when possible. Thailand is like living in luxury compared to Cambodia, or so I hear. It should be very interesting and filled with all kinds of new experiences!
~Susannah
"Life is what we make it. Always has been, always will be." (Grandma Moses)
"He must become greater, I must become less." (John 3:30)
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
The "Squatty-Potty"
Hello friends and family!
It's about 7:45 here and it's FREEZING! I know, I know, I shouldn't complain about the weather, but it is technically winter here, and the nights get pretty cold. The days are sunny and warm though, so that is nice.
Yesterday Rachel and I headed out to the Day Market with the group from Virginia. Apparently we would have had to take 3 taxis just to get to town (we are more in the country) so that would have been quite the feat seeing as we don't even know where to tell the drivers to take us! We stopped at a little Western/Thai restaurant for lunch . . . it took about an hour and a half for every one's food to arrive--hey, that's Asia for you! I had a full breakfast meal for about 4 bucks--I didn't even eat most of it because it tasted funny, but the croissant was totally worth it. Also, the pineapple, banana, and watermelon were so delicious!
After eating, we headed to the Day Market---miles and miles of vendors selling everything! It's more for the locals, so there were more practical things at this market--kitchen stuff, shoes (oh the shoes! If only I had smaller feet! They all look at me and sneer, "You feet too big!" Hey! I only wear a 9!:) tons of cheap clothes, and lots of food. OH THE SMELLS! I saw about every kind of dead animal possible; we walked very quickly through that part! :)
Well, then, unfortunately, I really had to use the restroom (I had Sprite, orange juice, and tea with my large breakfast!) but of course, it's not a "Western" style toilet, it's a "squatty-potty" as we call it. GROSS. It's all about balance and not getting your pant legs or shoes wet. The floor is disgusting--yuck!!!!!!!!! But I survived. It even cost 2 baht--I can't believe they CHARGE you to use a hole in the ground, but hey, it's Asia!
Anyway, we headed back to the orphanage, played with the kids, and then joined them for their worship time. SO cute! There is one little boy, Booey (spelling? who knows!) who everyone calls Doc. He is good with helping those who are sick (everyone has a cold or a cough from the cold) and he is so adorable. Last night, after we helped them make a beaded bracelet, he came and sat on the porch with me. Oh I want to take him home! I almost started crying last night just thinking of leaving these kids here. I wish they could be adopted out into families, but the government here is really strict with adoption laws, etc. The kids do have sponsors from different churches, so that helps. It's going to be so hard to leave!
Today we are headed to the Chiang Mai Zoo! It should be really cool. Tonight I want to head back to the Night Market! This is my last night in Chiang Mai; I'm headed to Cambodia on Thursday (earlier than expected!) but I probably will come back to Chiang Mai with the other team members later.
Ok, that's all folks! I've got to get ready for another long day:)
I wish all of you could be here and experience this!!!! I'm glad I have access to a computer at the guest house so that I can at least update and share this with you.
Susannah
"Be in love with your life." Jack Kerouac
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)
It's about 7:45 here and it's FREEZING! I know, I know, I shouldn't complain about the weather, but it is technically winter here, and the nights get pretty cold. The days are sunny and warm though, so that is nice.
Yesterday Rachel and I headed out to the Day Market with the group from Virginia. Apparently we would have had to take 3 taxis just to get to town (we are more in the country) so that would have been quite the feat seeing as we don't even know where to tell the drivers to take us! We stopped at a little Western/Thai restaurant for lunch . . . it took about an hour and a half for every one's food to arrive--hey, that's Asia for you! I had a full breakfast meal for about 4 bucks--I didn't even eat most of it because it tasted funny, but the croissant was totally worth it. Also, the pineapple, banana, and watermelon were so delicious!
After eating, we headed to the Day Market---miles and miles of vendors selling everything! It's more for the locals, so there were more practical things at this market--kitchen stuff, shoes (oh the shoes! If only I had smaller feet! They all look at me and sneer, "You feet too big!" Hey! I only wear a 9!:) tons of cheap clothes, and lots of food. OH THE SMELLS! I saw about every kind of dead animal possible; we walked very quickly through that part! :)
Well, then, unfortunately, I really had to use the restroom (I had Sprite, orange juice, and tea with my large breakfast!) but of course, it's not a "Western" style toilet, it's a "squatty-potty" as we call it. GROSS. It's all about balance and not getting your pant legs or shoes wet. The floor is disgusting--yuck!!!!!!!!! But I survived. It even cost 2 baht--I can't believe they CHARGE you to use a hole in the ground, but hey, it's Asia!
Anyway, we headed back to the orphanage, played with the kids, and then joined them for their worship time. SO cute! There is one little boy, Booey (spelling? who knows!) who everyone calls Doc. He is good with helping those who are sick (everyone has a cold or a cough from the cold) and he is so adorable. Last night, after we helped them make a beaded bracelet, he came and sat on the porch with me. Oh I want to take him home! I almost started crying last night just thinking of leaving these kids here. I wish they could be adopted out into families, but the government here is really strict with adoption laws, etc. The kids do have sponsors from different churches, so that helps. It's going to be so hard to leave!
Today we are headed to the Chiang Mai Zoo! It should be really cool. Tonight I want to head back to the Night Market! This is my last night in Chiang Mai; I'm headed to Cambodia on Thursday (earlier than expected!) but I probably will come back to Chiang Mai with the other team members later.
Ok, that's all folks! I've got to get ready for another long day:)
I wish all of you could be here and experience this!!!! I'm glad I have access to a computer at the guest house so that I can at least update and share this with you.
Susannah
"Be in love with your life." Jack Kerouac
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Monday, January 29, 2007
Let the adventures begin!
Hello!
Yesterday (Monday, the 29th for me) was a very busy day!!!!!!! Rachel and I woke up early and tagged along with the group from Virginia (did I mention they are staying at a mansion? The house, gardens, and ponds are GORGEOUS!) and we hit the ground running! We started out at a local tribal store--it had all kinds of merchandise from the local tribal villages--very beautiful purses, bracelets, blankets, bags, etc. All of the different tribes have their own style of clothing, colors, patterns, etc. The children at the orphanage all have an outfit from their own local hill tribe; they even have a program where they all sing a song from their tribes while they are all dressed up in their costumes. Of course, as soon as the program is over, the nice clothes are quickly discarded--they don't like to stay dressed up for long! Typical kids!
After the village shop, we headed for lunch at the local mall, Carrefour. I had an icky hot dog from Diary Queen--it had a very funny taste :( So then I had french fries from McDonald's--they also tasted strange--oh well. The ice cream from Diary Queen was great! I guess you can't really screw up ice cream!:) Carrefour was cool, though--lots of stores, kiosks, etc. So much stuff!
Our group then headed out to visit a home for women with AIDS. A couple from the States, Jerry and Pam, run the home. The woman make paper gift bags and cards to support themselves--they bags are really beautiful! It's an intricate skill, but with some help from my Thai teacher, I made a bag! It was really cool. The cards were all handmade and really creative and cute . . . and they were only 35 baht (about a buck)!
Jerry and Pam then showed us their newly purchased property. It is in the middle of rice fields; there were water buffalo galore! :) The new home will be for the women with AIDS, homeless people, etc. Jerry and Pam really have a heart for the people of Thailand. It was really awesome to see how God was using them!
Our next stop was to the North Thailand Mission Organization. This was my absolute favorite part! We met with David, who works with others to translate the Bible into several different languages. This man is so utterly passionate about his calling; his stories were amazing. He told us the story about how the translation of the Chinese Bible was completed, even after their only translator (a seventy-nine year old man) nearly died days before they were to finish the translation. They met with the man and prayed for him; he was up the next morning huddled over the manuscript, working on corrections. As a result, the manuscript was finished! It was an inspiring story . . . it was good to be reminded of just how casual many American Christians are about having a copy of the Bible! Also, to see how God is working in many of these countries and bringing together people from all over the world was incredible! We all do have a part! I was really moved by this humble man; he had such a heart for sharing God's Word. I'm actually getting very choked up just writing about it. I wish everyone could meet David and see the work he is doing here. He has dedicated his life to serving Jesus, even when it is sometimes dangerous and illegal! WOW.
Anyway, after the mission, we came back to the orphanage. The kids came running! They were happy to see us after such a long day (they had just gotten back from school). We then had BBQ pork on a stick with rice for dinner--YUM! After dinner was a worship time with the kids; they were so cute trying to sing "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" in English.
A group of us then headed out to the Night Market, a huge street market--you could get everything! Knock-off designer bags, jewelry, backpacks, watches, clothes, beautiful silks, etc. etc. etc.! It was a shopper's dream! It was fun to bargain . . . I bought a necklace and I bargained hard (but not hard enough, I think:) and got the price down to 300 baht (9 bucks, I think) I should have walked away. It was kinda overwhelming! So many people!!!!! If you don't like crowds, this isn't the place for you!
Anyway, we were exhausted by the time we got back (about 11 pm) so we went right to sleep. Right now it is almost 10 am on Tuesday, the 31st and it is going to be a slower day for us. Rachel and I are teaching English to the staff and children in the afternoon, so we have a little free time. We are thinking of heading to the Day Market (more for the locals and cheaper (!) than the Night Market (very touristy) . . . but we don't speak Thai and we need to get a taxi there. It should be quite the adventure! I'll try to update soon!
Susannah
"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do." (Helen Keller)
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matt. 12:34)
Yesterday (Monday, the 29th for me) was a very busy day!!!!!!! Rachel and I woke up early and tagged along with the group from Virginia (did I mention they are staying at a mansion? The house, gardens, and ponds are GORGEOUS!) and we hit the ground running! We started out at a local tribal store--it had all kinds of merchandise from the local tribal villages--very beautiful purses, bracelets, blankets, bags, etc. All of the different tribes have their own style of clothing, colors, patterns, etc. The children at the orphanage all have an outfit from their own local hill tribe; they even have a program where they all sing a song from their tribes while they are all dressed up in their costumes. Of course, as soon as the program is over, the nice clothes are quickly discarded--they don't like to stay dressed up for long! Typical kids!
After the village shop, we headed for lunch at the local mall, Carrefour. I had an icky hot dog from Diary Queen--it had a very funny taste :( So then I had french fries from McDonald's--they also tasted strange--oh well. The ice cream from Diary Queen was great! I guess you can't really screw up ice cream!:) Carrefour was cool, though--lots of stores, kiosks, etc. So much stuff!
Our group then headed out to visit a home for women with AIDS. A couple from the States, Jerry and Pam, run the home. The woman make paper gift bags and cards to support themselves--they bags are really beautiful! It's an intricate skill, but with some help from my Thai teacher, I made a bag! It was really cool. The cards were all handmade and really creative and cute . . . and they were only 35 baht (about a buck)!
Jerry and Pam then showed us their newly purchased property. It is in the middle of rice fields; there were water buffalo galore! :) The new home will be for the women with AIDS, homeless people, etc. Jerry and Pam really have a heart for the people of Thailand. It was really awesome to see how God was using them!
Our next stop was to the North Thailand Mission Organization. This was my absolute favorite part! We met with David, who works with others to translate the Bible into several different languages. This man is so utterly passionate about his calling; his stories were amazing. He told us the story about how the translation of the Chinese Bible was completed, even after their only translator (a seventy-nine year old man) nearly died days before they were to finish the translation. They met with the man and prayed for him; he was up the next morning huddled over the manuscript, working on corrections. As a result, the manuscript was finished! It was an inspiring story . . . it was good to be reminded of just how casual many American Christians are about having a copy of the Bible! Also, to see how God is working in many of these countries and bringing together people from all over the world was incredible! We all do have a part! I was really moved by this humble man; he had such a heart for sharing God's Word. I'm actually getting very choked up just writing about it. I wish everyone could meet David and see the work he is doing here. He has dedicated his life to serving Jesus, even when it is sometimes dangerous and illegal! WOW.
Anyway, after the mission, we came back to the orphanage. The kids came running! They were happy to see us after such a long day (they had just gotten back from school). We then had BBQ pork on a stick with rice for dinner--YUM! After dinner was a worship time with the kids; they were so cute trying to sing "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" in English.
A group of us then headed out to the Night Market, a huge street market--you could get everything! Knock-off designer bags, jewelry, backpacks, watches, clothes, beautiful silks, etc. etc. etc.! It was a shopper's dream! It was fun to bargain . . . I bought a necklace and I bargained hard (but not hard enough, I think:) and got the price down to 300 baht (9 bucks, I think) I should have walked away. It was kinda overwhelming! So many people!!!!! If you don't like crowds, this isn't the place for you!
Anyway, we were exhausted by the time we got back (about 11 pm) so we went right to sleep. Right now it is almost 10 am on Tuesday, the 31st and it is going to be a slower day for us. Rachel and I are teaching English to the staff and children in the afternoon, so we have a little free time. We are thinking of heading to the Day Market (more for the locals and cheaper (!) than the Night Market (very touristy) . . . but we don't speak Thai and we need to get a taxi there. It should be quite the adventure! I'll try to update soon!
Susannah
"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do." (Helen Keller)
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matt. 12:34)
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Long Live the King!
Hello friends and family!
Here I am in Chiang Mai--it is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains. At first it reminded me of Mexico . . . the stray dogs, signs, run-down homes, etc. Very Asian, though. The orphanage is situated out of the city--they have three large bamboo huts for the children, a guest house (where Rachel and I are staying) and a church. The property is also fenced in and has a nice gate. They have just raised enough money to build a new orphanage--praise God! It will be so nice to see the children in actual homes!
Speaking of children, they are absolutely wonderful!!!So sweet, beautiful, always smiling. I fell in love right away! :) Their names are so crazy! They laugh at me when I TRY to pronounce their names. Oh, about 6 kids came to the airport to meet me, Dave, and the Doc yesterday afternoon. They brought me flowers and hugged me! I knew I was a goner--I give my heart away so quickly when it comes to kids:)
Today was rather relaxed. I slept like the dead because the good Doctor gave me drugs! I was so loopy. . . it was kinda funny. I also met another team fromVirginia who were visiting for the week. Yeah, I had to re-meet them all today. Rachel, the girl from my church whom I've never met (she was at school and now is teaching in Taiwan) also came today--I am so grateful for her! It's nice to have another person who knows and understands English!
We played with the children today--I played a crazy game of "Follow the Leader" and tried to teach the kids using a Phonics book. They were so hungry to learn any and all English words. It was fun to teach them but also very exhausting. I love the way that they imitate me perfectly--inflections, tones, etc. It can get pretty amusing. Rachel and I also attended a church service for the young people at the student center. The singing was the same but in Thai, so that make it kinda hard to follow along. Pastor Dave preached a sermon, and someone translated, so that was good. We then went to a Mexican restaurant in ChiangMai--it was good (but not as good as Chipotle!:)
Now we are back at the guest house preparing for bed . . . jet lag and all. A busy day tomorrow! I will write more soon!!!
Susannah
PS. The title of the blog is in reference to the king of Thailand--he is absolutely revered. They are celebrating his reign because he is the longest living monarch in the history of Thailand. They even have merchandise everyone wears in homage--T-shirts, bracelets, etc. It's quite interesting.
PPS. I tried squirrel today . . . all I can say is, interesting. :)
"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing." (HelenKeller)
"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." (Phil. 2:5)
Here I am in Chiang Mai--it is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains. At first it reminded me of Mexico . . . the stray dogs, signs, run-down homes, etc. Very Asian, though. The orphanage is situated out of the city--they have three large bamboo huts for the children, a guest house (where Rachel and I are staying) and a church. The property is also fenced in and has a nice gate. They have just raised enough money to build a new orphanage--praise God! It will be so nice to see the children in actual homes!
Speaking of children, they are absolutely wonderful!!!So sweet, beautiful, always smiling. I fell in love right away! :) Their names are so crazy! They laugh at me when I TRY to pronounce their names. Oh, about 6 kids came to the airport to meet me, Dave, and the Doc yesterday afternoon. They brought me flowers and hugged me! I knew I was a goner--I give my heart away so quickly when it comes to kids:)
Today was rather relaxed. I slept like the dead because the good Doctor gave me drugs! I was so loopy. . . it was kinda funny. I also met another team fromVirginia who were visiting for the week. Yeah, I had to re-meet them all today. Rachel, the girl from my church whom I've never met (she was at school and now is teaching in Taiwan) also came today--I am so grateful for her! It's nice to have another person who knows and understands English!
We played with the children today--I played a crazy game of "Follow the Leader" and tried to teach the kids using a Phonics book. They were so hungry to learn any and all English words. It was fun to teach them but also very exhausting. I love the way that they imitate me perfectly--inflections, tones, etc. It can get pretty amusing. Rachel and I also attended a church service for the young people at the student center. The singing was the same but in Thai, so that make it kinda hard to follow along. Pastor Dave preached a sermon, and someone translated, so that was good. We then went to a Mexican restaurant in ChiangMai--it was good (but not as good as Chipotle!:)
Now we are back at the guest house preparing for bed . . . jet lag and all. A busy day tomorrow! I will write more soon!!!
Susannah
PS. The title of the blog is in reference to the king of Thailand--he is absolutely revered. They are celebrating his reign because he is the longest living monarch in the history of Thailand. They even have merchandise everyone wears in homage--T-shirts, bracelets, etc. It's quite interesting.
PPS. I tried squirrel today . . . all I can say is, interesting. :)
"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing." (HelenKeller)
"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." (Phil. 2:5)
Friday, January 26, 2007
Sleep-deprived, but alive!
Hello from Bangkok, Thailand!
Well, I made it! I've just spent the last 6 or so hours in the Bangkok Airport. I've mostly been wandering around aimlessly . . . I have a cart for my luggage, so it kinda feels like I'm at the grocery store--strange. Airports are rather odd places--so many people! I've been having fun people-watching--and I've also been getting many the curious glance--mostly because I seem to pass the same people about two dozen times! I also tried to sleep, but I'm so paranoid about someone stealing my luggage, so it wasn't that restful. I woke up in a panic at one point because I was so disoriented! Speaking of disoriented, it's about 8:30 pm on Sat. I think I've gotten about 8 hours of sleep TOTAL from the beginning of this adventure--crazy! It was about 30 hours of flying and waiting, but I'm doing fine--God is definitely watching over me and protecting me!
I will write more when I get to Chiang Mai!
Thank you all for your prayers!:)
Susannah
"Courage is being scared to death--and saddling up anyway." (John Wayne)
"I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"(Psalm 91:2)
Well, I made it! I've just spent the last 6 or so hours in the Bangkok Airport. I've mostly been wandering around aimlessly . . . I have a cart for my luggage, so it kinda feels like I'm at the grocery store--strange. Airports are rather odd places--so many people! I've been having fun people-watching--and I've also been getting many the curious glance--mostly because I seem to pass the same people about two dozen times! I also tried to sleep, but I'm so paranoid about someone stealing my luggage, so it wasn't that restful. I woke up in a panic at one point because I was so disoriented! Speaking of disoriented, it's about 8:30 pm on Sat. I think I've gotten about 8 hours of sleep TOTAL from the beginning of this adventure--crazy! It was about 30 hours of flying and waiting, but I'm doing fine--God is definitely watching over me and protecting me!
I will write more when I get to Chiang Mai!
Thank you all for your prayers!:)
Susannah
"Courage is being scared to death--and saddling up anyway." (John Wayne)
"I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"(Psalm 91:2)
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Leavin' on a jet plane . . .
Good Morning!
It's 3:40 AM here in cold and snowy Toledo. I went to bed at about 12 AM; I think I got about 2 1/2 hours of sleep. I'll definitely be tired enough to sleep on the plane! :)
I'm feeling both super excited and nervous this morning . . . My brain would not shut off to sleep--I kept remembering things I hadn't packed yet. I leave for the airport at about 5:15, so hopefully by that time everything will be packed, settled, and ready to go!!!!
Thank you all for your well wishes and prayers--it means a lot to me! I know that God goes before me; I am trusting in Him to keep me safe, especially as I am traveling to Bangkok by myself.
Here's what my flight schedule looks like: Detroit to Chicago, Chicago to Tokyo, Tokyo to Bangkok, and then Bangkok to Chang Mai, Thailand. Whew!!!!
I will update as soon as I'm able!
Bon Voyage!
Susannah
P.S. I've changed the settings so that if you want to comment, you no longer have to have a Google account! Comments make me happy:)
And yes, here is another poem; another "favorite"! Enjoy:)
"The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I marked the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
It's 3:40 AM here in cold and snowy Toledo. I went to bed at about 12 AM; I think I got about 2 1/2 hours of sleep. I'll definitely be tired enough to sleep on the plane! :)
I'm feeling both super excited and nervous this morning . . . My brain would not shut off to sleep--I kept remembering things I hadn't packed yet. I leave for the airport at about 5:15, so hopefully by that time everything will be packed, settled, and ready to go!!!!
Thank you all for your well wishes and prayers--it means a lot to me! I know that God goes before me; I am trusting in Him to keep me safe, especially as I am traveling to Bangkok by myself.
Here's what my flight schedule looks like: Detroit to Chicago, Chicago to Tokyo, Tokyo to Bangkok, and then Bangkok to Chang Mai, Thailand. Whew!!!!
I will update as soon as I'm able!
Bon Voyage!
Susannah
P.S. I've changed the settings so that if you want to comment, you no longer have to have a Google account! Comments make me happy:)
And yes, here is another poem; another "favorite"! Enjoy:)
"The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I marked the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Running around like a chicken . . . well, you know
It's Monday, and I am busy, busy, busy! All that last-minute stuff . . . and I still need to pack. And for those of you who know me well or have been on any sort of trip/vacation with me, you know I have a tendency to overpack! :)
Today I thought I would share my life verse. It is Psalm 31:14-15a, "But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands."
Thanks for reading!
~Susannah
And for all the poetry lovers out there . . . here's one of my favorites!
"What happens to a Dream Deferred?" by Langston Hughes
Does it dry up
Like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore-
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over-
Like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
Like a heavy load
Or does it explode?
Today I thought I would share my life verse. It is Psalm 31:14-15a, "But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands."
Thanks for reading!
~Susannah
And for all the poetry lovers out there . . . here's one of my favorites!
"What happens to a Dream Deferred?" by Langston Hughes
Does it dry up
Like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore-
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over-
Like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
Like a heavy load
Or does it explode?
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Countdown to takeoff!
Hello friends and family!
I guess creating a blog was easier than I thought! :) Now I will be able to keep everyone updated on my trip to Thailand and Cambodia. I leave on Thursday, Jan. 25th. I am very excited! I am also extremely grateful to my church, Maumee Valley, for not only generously providing the funds to make this trip possible, but also for their constant support and prayers. Thank you!
Please keep me in your prayers!
~Susannah
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!' " (Isaiah 6:8)
"I am just a wandering wayfarer in a strange land." (Robert Burns)
I guess creating a blog was easier than I thought! :) Now I will be able to keep everyone updated on my trip to Thailand and Cambodia. I leave on Thursday, Jan. 25th. I am very excited! I am also extremely grateful to my church, Maumee Valley, for not only generously providing the funds to make this trip possible, but also for their constant support and prayers. Thank you!
Please keep me in your prayers!
~Susannah
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!' " (Isaiah 6:8)
"I am just a wandering wayfarer in a strange land." (Robert Burns)
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