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)
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